Written Answers Nos. 97-120
97. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue in the case of a person (details supplied), who applied ten weeks ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22210/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWith regard to the specific application about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service has issued a passport to the applicant.
98. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of publicly funded contracts awarded to a company (details supplied) by his Department in each of the past ten years; the cost of each contract; and the purpose for which each contract was awarded. [18662/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has not entered into any publicly funded contracts with the company in question over the last ten years.
99. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to compensate drift and draft net fishers affected by the ban on commercial salmon fishing; his views on whether the hardship scheme introduced following the ban should be reopened to relevant fishers who did not avail of it at the time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22181/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraCommercial fishing for salmon is by way of public licence which does not confer any rights on the holder. In that regard the issue of compensation does not arise.
In order to comply with the EU Habitats Directive and the principles of the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation (NASCO), the Government decided in 2006 to cease all indiscriminate commercial fishing in the sea and to manage all salmon fisheries strictly in line with scientific advice. On foot of that decision, in 2007, the Government introduced a hardship scheme open to all holders of a commercial salmon licence.
Funding of €25m was made available for direct payments to former fishermen, based on their track record in the fishery, with a further €5m available for projects in affected communities. The scheme closed in 2008 with all funds expended and there are currently no plans to introduce a similar scheme.
100. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the details of the funding assistance available to develop business projects on bogs by the owners of these sites in light of their discontinued use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22206/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has made funding available to the Midlands region, through the National and EU Just Transition Funds, to support workers, companies and communities affected by the ending of peat extraction for power generation by Bord na Móna and by the closure of the ESB's peat-fired power stations in the region.
The National Just Transition Fund, administered by my Department and established in 2020, funds local and community-led projects, which are implementing innovative plans to support the transition to a low carbon economy across a range of activities. Up to €22 million in grant assistance is available to approved projects until the end of 2024. Details of all projects being supported, and grant amounts awarded, are published on the Department's website at www.gov.ie/en/publication/ed10d-just-transition-fund/.
The EU Just Transition Fund, established as part of the EU Green Deal, is supporting the longer-term economic transition of the Midlands region in Ireland. Formally launched in April 2023, Ireland's EU Just Transition Fund Programme will provide up to €169 million for investment in the period to 2027 in Laois, Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Westmeath, and municipal districts of Ballinasloe in Co. Galway, Athy and Clane-Maynooth in County Kildare, and Carrick-on-Suir and Thurles in County Tipperary.
Investments under this Programme will focus on three priorities:
• Generating sustainable employment by investing in the diversification of the local economy (up to €87 million available);
• Supporting the restoration and rehabilitation of degraded peatlands and the regeneration and repurposing of industrial heritage assets (up to €57 million available); and
• Providing former peat communities with smart and sustainable mobility options to enable them to benefit directly from the green transition (up to €18 million available).
While the Programme is not specifically intended to support private landowners of bogs, funding assistance may be available to qualifying individuals in accordance with the terms and conditions of individual schemes under the Programme. Further information on open and upcoming funding calls is available from the website of the programme managing authority, the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly, atemra.ie/eu-jtf/.
Individuals seeking funding in respect of business projects may also be eligible more generally for supports through Enterprise Ireland or through their Local Enterprise Office.
101. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when work will be carried out in a home (details supplied), considering it is urgently needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22274/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) operates the Warmer Homes Scheme on behalf of my Department. Delivering free energy upgrades to low-income households and reducing the waiting times for the Warmer Homes Scheme is a top priority for my Department and the SEAI. My officials continue to work with the SEAI to maximise and accelerate the output of free energy upgrades provided under this important scheme.
However, individual applications to the Warmer Homes Scheme are an operational matter for SEAI and as the Minister I have no function in relation to such applications. Applications are assessed on the basis of when they first apply to SEAI. Homes with the worst Building Energy Ratings (E, F or G) are then prioritised for works.
In recent years, the Warmer Homes Scheme has delivered a greater volume of deeper and more complex upgrades. This is reflected in the average cost of upgrades which have seen an almost tenfold increase from €2,600 in 2015 to €24,000 in 2023.
These deeper upgrades mean that more lower income homeowners are benefitting significantly from warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills and reduced emissions. However, it is important to acknowledge that deeper retrofits take longer to complete.
This improvement in the upgrades provided under the scheme in tandem with increased awareness of the multiple benefits of retrofit are driving significantly increased levels of demand. Approximately 24,000 applications from homeowners were received in 2022 and 2023 combined.
For the homes completed in 2023, the average waiting time from application to completion was 20 months. This is a reduction from 26 months for homes completed in 2022. SEAI advise that it can take 8-10 months from date of application to the pre-works BER assessment.
The Government also has other schemes and supports in place which may be of assistance where there is an urgent need:
• The Department of Social Protection's Additional Needs Payment is a payment available to people who have essential expenses that they cannot pay from their weekly income. Additional Needs Payments are paid under Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is administered by the Community Welfare Service (CWS) or the Department of Social Protection. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/4eb45-additional-needs-payment/
• The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's Housing Adaptation Grants for People with a Disability assists people with a disability to have necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works carried out in order to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability/
102. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when the two recently acquired Naval Service inshore patrol vessels will enter service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22034/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince their arrival further physical works were completed on both vessels together with familiarisation works, including these works and transportation costs, these vessels were acquired at a cost of €32m. A final comprehensive programme of familiarisation works and pre-sailing exercises with the assistance of reserve members of the Royal New Zealand Navy will commence on the 16 May 2024 in the Naval base. This 3 week programme will ensure that the Naval Service crew designated for this Ship will be ready to deploy the first IPV on operation duties in June.
104. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which issues relating to pay and conditions within the Defence Forces have been resolved or are under review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22326/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has progressed a number of key measures arising from the Commission on the Defence Forces Report to address pay and recruitment issues in the Defence Forces. These include a number of projects undertaken to bolster the attractiveness of a career in the Defence Forces, and cover a range of measures which improve pay and conditions.
It is also worth noting in this regard that the Report observed that much of the commentary surrounding issues of pay in the Defence Forces does not seem to fully reflect the totality of the remuneration package and believes that this needs to be better communicated.
The Commission on the Defence Forces made a number of recommendations concerning pay structures, which have been implemented including:
• Removal of the requirement for a Private 3 Star/Able Seaman to ‘mark time’ for the first three years at that rank (as detailed above in terms starting pay rates);
• Payment of the full rate of Military Service Allowance (MSA) applicable to the rank of all Private 3 Star/Able Seaman personnel.
In 2023 the Tánaiste announced the extension of private secondary medical care to all Defence Forces personnel, a measure that commenced in September 2023. Previously, various benefits applied to Commissioned Officers only. It will now apply to all personnel. In addition to the comprehensive range of primary care currently provided, this new measure will facilitate referrals to private consultants, as well as the costs of any diagnostic tests.
In addition to the above, Government announced new changes to the existing Naval Service allowances, as a means of simplifying current structures, by consolidating the daily allowance and the sea-going commitment scheme into one enhanced allowance. This is in line with the Commission on Defence Forces recommendation to replace existing sea-going allowances with less complex measures. The sea-going commitment scheme was abolished from the end of 2023.
Specifically, the current Patrol Duty Allowance, paid to Naval Service personnel, will be doubled after ten days at sea. This measure took effect from 1 January 2024. It will result in the daily rate increasing from €66.13 to €132.26 for an officer, and from €65.72 to €131.44 for an enlisted person, after ten days at sea, with effect from 1st January 2024.
Having due regard to all of the measures mentioned it is therefore important to note that significant progress has been delivered on pay and conditions, for the Defence Forces, in recent years. Following the implementation of the Commission on Defence Forces recommendations, as well as the ratification of a new public service pay agreement in 2024 (which resulted in an initial 2.25% wage adjustment from 1 January 2024) this means that recruits, on completion of training (which takes approximately 24 weeks), will start at:
• €39,321 in year 1
• €40,718 in year 2, and
• €42,005 in year 3
(A further 1% pay rise will be due again on 1 June 2024).
In terms of Officers, a school leaver Cadet - on commissioning as an Officer- is paid €43,222. This is a second Lieutenant position. After 2 years they are promoted to Lieutenant and their pay rises to €48,505. Where a graduate joins – the pay rate on commissioning as a Lieutenant begins at €48,505. These rates all include pensionable military service allowance, which is an allowance that is paid to all ranks up to and including the rank of Colonel, for the unpredictable nature of the work encountered by the Defence Forces.
Remuneration for individual members of the Defence Forces is dependent on a range of factors relating to the role and duties they perform. The minimum payment for trained personnel is comprised of Basic Pay and Military Service Allowance. Defence Force personnel also have access to other remuneration streams, such as technical and specialist pay, while at the same time a wide range of duties attract additional allowances.
105. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which the budget available to his Department remains sufficient to meet requirements in the course of the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22327/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2024 Revised Estimates Volume (REV) provides an allocation of €1.25 billion in Defence Group funding, an increase of €40 million over 2023. The Defence Vote Group includes the Defence and Army Pensions Votes. The allocations for 2024 are €933 million for the Defence Vote and €317 million for the Army Pensions Vote. This significant level of funding will further enable progress on the transformation of the Defence Forces in line with the objectives and timeframes outlined in the Defence Strategic Framework, published last September.
The increased current expenditure allocation of €757 million on the Defence Vote will not only address existing spending pressures across many operational areas, but will also include targeted funding for a number of key recommendations arising from the CODF and the IRG, such as:
• An increased Defence Forces Medical Healthcare allocation to cover the full year costs of extended healthcare to all Defence Forces personnel;
• A significant provision specifically to meet the 2024 costs of the Tribunal of Inquiry arising from the IRG Report;
• A significant increase in the advertising allocation to support an enhanced Defence Forces recruitment effort throughout 2024;
• An increased Civilian Support allocation to facilitate further progression of civilian recruitment and to also allow for an increased spend on the essential engagement of external expertise and services.
The Permanent Defence Force pay and allowances budget of €493 million will be used to meet the ongoing pay and allowance costs of a Permanent Defence Force (PDF) strength of 7,700 and will also facilitate the recruitment of an additional net 400 PDF personnel throughout 2024.
Recruitment and retention of personnel is a key priority for me. My Department has progressed a number of activities relating to recruitment and retention and related HR issues in the Defence Forces, including, inter alia, commissioning from the ranks, extending service limits for Privates, Corporals and Sergeants, increasing the mandatory retirement age for PDF personnel to 60, raising the maximum recruitment age to 39 and doubling the Patrol Duty Allowance payable to eligible Naval Service personnel after 10 days at sea.
I believe that these positive, progressive measures are providing further support to the ongoing PDF recruitment and retention effort, which remains challenging in a buoyant economy.
As you are aware, Minister Donohoe recently published revised multi-annual capital spending allocations across Departments out to 2026 to facilitate the progression of key capital projects and programmes under the 2021-30 National Development Plan (NDP). For Defence, this will see the capital allocation rise from its 2024 level of €176 million to €215 million in 2025 and €220 million in 2026, a level of increase which will bring the Defence allocation to its highest ever level.
This level of capital investment will progress the strategically important development of primary radar capabilities, and will also facilitate investment in, inter alia, the Defence Forces communications systems, military transport aircraft, force protection equipment, transport vehicles, military engineering equipment and ICT projects. It will also enable continued investment in enhancing and upgrading Defence Forces installations throughout the country.
The Defence Vote also provides funding for Civil Defence, Irish Red Cross Society and the Reserve Defence Force.
The 2024 Army Pensions (Vote 35) allocation of €317 million will provide funding for 13,475 Army Pensioners and certain dependants.
All expenditure within my Department is profiled and monitored closely and I’m satisfied that the funding allocation provided to the Defence Vote Group for 2024 will enable the Defence Forces to deliver effectively on all its key domestic and international responsibilities, while also allowing considerable progress on the transformation agenda underway throughout the Defence Forces.
106. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the degree to which the Army is being upgraded and updated in line with the requirements of a modern army within the European Union, in the event of a threat arising from any quarter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22328/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service is maintained and developed. This is to enable the Defence Forces to carry out the roles assigned by Government. Equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are considered in the context of the established capability development and Equipment Development Planning (EDP) processes.
Further additions to the EDP are currently under consideration, including in the context of the Government’s decision to move to a higher level of ambition, known as LOA2, and in light of specific recommendations, associated with a move to LOA2, made in the report of the Commission on the Defence Forces last year.
Work on capital investment in aircraft continues, a contract with Airbus has been placed at a cost of €57 million excluding VAT for a military transport aircraft for the Defence Forces. The Airbus C295W aircraft is highly versatile and will provide a dedicated asset to support the Defence Forces military airlift transport requirements and provide a wide contingent capability.
The aircraft will enable the Air Corps to provide a wide range of services including logistics support and transport of troops and equipment, medical evacuation and air ambulance, Special Operations Forces operations and a general utility role. Delivery of this aircraft is expected in 2025. In addition, a competitive process to acquire a new mid sized aircraft for Ministerial Air Transport has been published on the Official Journal of the European Union platform.
The programme for the supply of two C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft has now been completed, following the delivery of the first aircraft in June and the second last month. Projects for other Air Corps capabilities will be considered in the context of overall capability development and available funding in accordance with the planning processes.
The two Inshore Patrol Vessels, purchased from New Zealand to replace LÉ Orla and LÉ Ciara, are expected to become fully operational during 2024 following a comprehensive programme of works, including crew familiarisation and training. Marine advisors have been appointed by my Department to support the procurement of a Multi-Role Vessel (MRV), as provided for in the Government's National Development Plan, and work is progressing in line with the steps in the Public Spending Code. Projects for other Naval Service capabilities will be considered in the context of overall capability development and available funding in accordance with established planning processes.
Projects for the Army are being considered in the context of capability development and available funding against the backdrop of the overall Equipment Development Plan process. There has been significant investment in recent years in the armoured fleet of vehicles with the enhancement of force protection and mobility with the mid-life refit of the MOWAG Piranha III vehicles project nearing completion and the delivery of Armoured Utility Vehicles. These projects have seen the integration of cutting edge technology and equipment into the vehicles. Technology is an enabler of modern military forces. A framework agreement for the supply of a Software Defined Radio system to the Defence Forces has recently been awarded. This complex project has been designed to meet the Defence Forces' requirements and to incorporate systems and equipment platforms, it will support the joint common operational picture.
The Defence allocation is determined within an overarching budgetary framework which encompasses existing NDP multi-annual capital allocations and remains cognisant of the level of resources available, commensurate with defence policy requirements. It is within this context that the Estimates 2024 discussions took place with the Department of Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform, to include full consideration of Defence capital investment priorities for 2024 and beyond. The Department of Defence has received a capital allocation of €176 million in Budget 2024, and is set to receive a capital allocation of €215 million for 2025 and €220 million for 2026 following a revision of NDP multi-annual allocations.
This level of capital funding allows a phased planned programme of sustained equipment and infrastructural development across the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service as identified and prioritised in the Defence White Paper and the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, while building on the significant investment programme over recent years
This is following Government approval for a move over a six-year period to a level of Defence Forces’ capability equivalent to ‘Level of Ambition 2’ (LOA2), as set out in the capability framework devised by the Commission on Defence Forces, which will entail funding increases to reach a Defence budget of approximately €1.5 billion (at January 2022 prices) by 2028 through the annual Estimates.
Among the major Defence Equipment upgrade and replacement programmes set to be prioritised over the coming years are:
• The Land Forces Capability Development and Force Protection Programmes, including an upgrade of the military transport fleet and next generation radio communications and signal equipment;
• The ongoing Naval Service Vessel Renewal and Replacement Programme, which includes the mid-life refit of the P50 Class of Naval Vessel and the progression of the Multi Role Vessel project;
• The ongoing Air Corps Aircraft Renewal and Replacement Programme which includes the purchase of the C295 Maritime Patrol Aircraft and C295 Military Transport Aircraft and future procurement of new rotary wing capabilities.
In addition to these major projects, there is an on-going schedule of capital investment across a broad range of force protection measures, including in General Service Body Armour, a new combat helmet, the procurement of Chemical Biological, Radiological and Nuclear protection suits, and new thermal imaging targeting systems. Investment in transport, communications and information technology, weapons and ammunition systems continues in 2024. This level of investment in Defence equipment platforms will further boost ongoing efforts at enhancing Defence Forces capabilities across land, sea and air domains.
107. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which the EU might be encouraged to contribute to defence and coastal security measures on the Irish coast on the basis that such measures would have beneficial impact on Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22329/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU and its Member States, including Ireland, have significant strategic interests in identifying and addressing security challenges linked to the coastal defence, and Ireland takes part in a range of EU initiatives in this regard.
In October 2023, the EU approved its revised EU maritime security strategy (EUMSS) and related Action Plan, aimed at addressing security challenges at sea. Together, the two documents provide a comprehensive framework for tackling various threats and challenges at sea. The revised strategy and its action plan have been aligned with recent EU policy frameworks and instruments, such as the Strategic Compass for Security and Defence.
On the basis of the updated EU Maritime Security Strategy, the Strategic Compass aims to, by 2025, further develop and strengthen the EU’s maritime security awareness mechanisms such as the Common Information Sharing Environment (CISE) and Maritime Surveillance (MARSUR) to advance interoperability, facilitate decision-making and support increased operational effectiveness. It also aims to further increase the visibility of EU Member States naval presence within and beyond the EU, including through port calls, training and exercises as well as capacity building.
While defence remains a national competence, Ireland sees the value in Member States’ national maritime activities voluntarily feeding into greater EU cooperation and adding value where possible, and has availed of opportunities provided by our membership of the EU’s Common Security & Defence policy in this regard, such as taking part in the following:
• the existing European naval maritime surveillance information-sharing network EDA MARSUR Project
• the Greek led PESCO project “Upgrade of Maritime Surveillance’ which aims to enhance maritime situational awareness
• the Belgian led PESCO project Maritime (Semi) Autonomous Systems for Mine Counter-Measures (MAS-MCM) which aims to deliver a high level collaboration and delivery of semi-autonomous underwater, surface and aerial technologies which can be used in a Mine Counter-Measures role.
Ireland is also observing on the PESCO project on Critical Seabed Infrastructure Protection, which aims to increase the EU’s operational efficiency in the protection of critical maritime infrastructure protection by making best use of current, and the development of future, underwater assets.
Another PESCO project Ireland is observing on is Harbour & Maritime Surveillance and Protection (HARMSPRO) which aims to implement a deployable integrated capability system for the continuous protection of vessels, harbours and any other littoral and offshore critical infrastructure able to properly prevent and counter asymmetric (drones included) threats in a three-dimensional environment.
My Department is also working to transpose the new European Directive on the Resilience of Critical Entities. This work will enhance the resilience of critical entities that provide services essential for vital societal functions. In advance of the enactment of this Directive and because of the increased threat to critical infrastructure, the Department of Defence has worked with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and energy operators to stress test critical infrastructure in the energy sector in Ireland against man-made threats.
Given my regular engagement in EU discussions on the matter of Maritime Security and the extensive range of activities with which Ireland is closely and actively involved, I do not see a need to request specific additional European Union assistance towards Ireland’s coastal security. My Department will continue to review existing and future opportunities that may arise via our membership of the European Union in terms of addressing challenges identified.
108. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which coastal, air and sea surveillance continues at pace, given the various threats in these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22330/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out their roles as assigned by Government.
The Naval Service, as the State's principal sea-going agency, is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. While the main daily tasking of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with our obligations as a member of the EU, it also carries out a number of other non-fishery related tasks including maritime surveillance, drug interdiction, search and rescue, and maritime defence and security operations (MDSO). As such any Naval Service patrol should be viewed as a multi-faceted activity.
The Naval Operations Command Centre located at Naval Base Haulbowline is staffed twenty four hours a day seven days a week by qualified Naval Service personnel who carry out monitoring and surveillance of all vessels equipped with a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) that are operating in and adjacent to the Irish EEZ.
Aerial monitoring and surveillance of the Irish EEZ is carried out by the Air Corps Maritime Patrol Squadron. Two new C295 maritime patrol aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance and communication equipment were delivered to the Air Corps in 2023 to replace the existing CASA CN235 aircraft. Following an intensive period of training and verification, the new aircraft have commenced operations.
109. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the degree to which the Air Corps continues to be upgraded in line with the needs of an island country and the need to ensure regular coastal surveillance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22331/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAerial monitoring and surveillance of the Irish EEZ is carried out by the Air Corps Maritime Patrol Squadron. Two new C295 maritime patrol aircraft equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance and communication equipment were delivered to the Air Corps in 2023 to replace the existing CASA CN235 aircraft. Following an intensive period of training and verification, the new aircraft have commenced operations.
The Naval Service and the Air Corps provide assistance and support to search and rescue missions on an as available basis, however, the lead agency for search and rescue (SAR) in Ireland's SAR domain is the Irish Coast Guard.
In terms of fishery protection the Naval Service is tasked with patrolling all Irish waters from the shoreline to the outer limits of the EEZ. These patrols are carried out on a regular and frequent basis and are directed to all areas of Irish waters as necessary. The Sea Fisheries Protection Authority are the competent authority in relation to fisheries control in Ireland's EEZ.
110. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the total number of vacant, disused or decommissioned properties owned by his Department that potentially could be used for accommodation purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22332/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI assume that by vacant properties the Deputy is referring to residential properties. There are seventy-eight (78) vacant residential type properties under the remit of my Department. I am advised that none of these properties can be occupied without considerable refurbishment and were built before the Building Regulations and associated standards arising from same came into effect.
A consultant was commissioned by the Defence Forces to assess the condition of the vacant housing in barracks and its suitability for conversion/refurbishment to provide for additional single living-in accommodation for Defence Force personnel, this report was recently received in the Department and my officials will submit recommendations to me shortly on the remediation programme to be undertaken.
111. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the current strength of all branches of the Defence Forces; if further recruitment is required to bring each branch of the forces up to optimum strength; if issues regarding salary, pay and conditions are being addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22333/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs at 31st March 2024, the latest date for which such data is available, the strength of the Permanent Defence Force was 7,510 personnel comprised of 6,087 Army personnel, 701 Air Corps personnel and 722 Naval Service personnel.
Whilst recruitment and retention challenges have been acknowledged, a range of measures have been introduced by this Government to address these and make the Defence Forces an attractive option as a career choice. To this end, there is provision, contained in the €1.23 billion allocated for the Defence Sector in Budget 2024, for the recruitment and training of a net additional 400 personnel in 2024.
In addition to ongoing recruitment for general service recruits and direct entry specialists, there are a number of recruitment and retention initiatives underway to increase capacity. An example includes the recent increase in the maximum retirement age for PDF personnel to 60 years. This retention measure also facilitated an increase in the maximum recruitment age to 39 years for General Service Recruits, Cadets and certain specialists with effect from 29 March 2024.
Other financial and non-financial retention initiatives are currently being implemented such as the extension of the provision of private secondary healthcare to all members of the PDF, in addition to significant progress on pay.
112. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the extent to which issues of pay and morale within the Defence Forces are being addressed to the satisfaction of all concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22334/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has progressed a number of key measures arising from the Commission on the Defence Forces Report to address pay and recruitment issues in the Defence Forces. These include a number of projects undertaken to bolster the attractiveness of a career in the Defence Forces, and cover a range of measures which improve pay and conditions.
It is also worth noting in this regard that the Report observed that much of the commentary surrounding issues of pay in the Defence Forces does not seem to fully reflect the totality of the remuneration package and believes that this needs to be better communicated.
The Commission on the Defence Forces made a number of recommendations concerning pay structures, which have been implemented including:
• Removal of the requirement for a Private 3 Star/Able Seaman to ‘mark time’ for the first three years at that rank (as detailed above in terms starting pay rates);
• Payment of the full rate of Military Service Allowance (MSA) applicable to the rank of all Private 3 Star/Able Seaman personnel.
In 2023 the Tánaiste announced the extension of private secondary medical care to all Defence Forces personnel, a measure that commenced in September 2023. Previously, various benefits applied to Commissioned Officers only. It will now apply to all personnel. In addition to the comprehensive range of primary care currently provided, this new measure will facilitate referrals to private consultants, as well as the costs of any diagnostic tests.
In addition to the above, Government announced new changes to the existing Naval Service allowances, as a means of simplifying current structures, by consolidating the daily allowance and the sea-going commitment scheme into one enhanced allowance. This is in line with the Commission on Defence Forces recommendation to replace existing sea-going allowances with less complex measures. The sea-going commitment scheme was abolished from the end of 2023.
Specifically, the current Patrol Duty Allowance, paid to Naval Service personnel, will be doubled after ten days at sea. This measure took effect from 1 January 2024. It will result in the daily rate increasing from €66.13 to €132.26 for an officer, and from €65.72 to €131.44 for an enlisted person, after ten days at sea, with effect from 1st January 2024.
Having due regard to all of the measures mentioned it is therefore important to note that significant progress has been delivered on pay and conditions, for the Defence Forces, in recent years. Following the implementation of the Commission on Defence Forces recommendations, as well as the ratification of a new public service pay agreement in 2024 (which resulted in an initial 2.25% wage adjustment from 1 January 2024) this means that recruits, on completion of training (which takes approximately 24 weeks), will start at:
• €39,321 in year 1
• €40,718 in year 2, and
• €42,005 in year 3
(A further 1% pay rise will be due again on 1 June 2024).
In terms of Officers, a school leaver Cadet - on commissioning as an Officer- is paid €43,222. This is a second Lieutenant position. After 2 years they are promoted to Lieutenant and their pay rises to €48,505. Where a graduate joins – the pay rate on commissioning as a Lieutenant begins at €48,505. These rates all include pensionable military service allowance, which is an allowance that is paid to all ranks up to and including the rank of Colonel, for the unpredictable nature of the work encountered by the Defence Forces.
Remuneration for individual members of the Defence Forces is dependent on a range of factors relating to the role and duties they perform. The minimum payment for trained personnel is comprised of Basic Pay and Military Service Allowance. Defence Force personnel also have access to other remuneration streams, such as technical and specialist pay, while at the same time a wide range of duties attract additional allowances.
113. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the progress being made to improve a dangerous and busy junction on the outskirts of Thurles, County Tipperary, given that Turtulla Cross and this section of the N62 has been the location of a number of serious and fatal occurrences over the years; what safety works and junction redesign can be carried out at this junction on the N62 to improve safety for all road users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21915/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to thank the Deputy for his question. I know that the matter of road safety is important to him, as it is to everyone in this House.
A major priority in the National Development Plan is to maintain the quality and safety of the existing National Road Network. The NDP foresees an exchequer allocation of circa €2.9 billion for the Protection and Renewal of existing national roads over the 10-year period to 2030. This funds measures on the existing National Road Network that include safety upgrades, minor improvement projects such as road re-alignment, pavement renewals and the safeguarding of bridges and culverts. This is in addition to the approximately €5.1 billion which has been allocated for the construction of new national roads over the same period.
I can advise that TII periodically carries out a collision analysis of the entire National Road Network, as required by guidelines, as well carrying out pro-active safety inspections. The purpose of this combined process is to identify locations that have high concentrations of collisions or potential collisions . TII have allocated a total of approximately €100 million in 2024 to safety programmes, which indicates how importantly this matter is treated.
In relation to Turtulla Cross on the N62 south of Thurles, I understand that a roundabout has been proposed for this location. A Feasibility and Options Report has been prepared by Tipperary County Council. This year, TII has provided a grant allocation of €50,000 to the Council to facilitate the appointment a Technical Advisor to examine and progress the design of the proposed upgrade.
Safety interventions such as this are an essential part of TII’s Protection and Renewal program for National Roads.
I hope that this information is of assistance to you.
114. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on the funding for the redevelopment of rail lines, particularly the Navan line, in conjunction with Department of Transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17514/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority, or NTA, has statutory responsibility for transport planning in the Greater Dublin Area, including County Meath.
The NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, which I approved early last year, sets out a framework for transport investment across the region over a 20-year period from 2022 to 2042, and it provides a clear statement of transport planning policy for Counties Meath, Dublin, Louth, Kildare and Wicklow. Having a transport strategy is important to ensure we assess how the different modes can deliver for the region and also how we can sequence delivery to maximise benefits and deliver value for money.
The issue of a rail connection between Dublin and Navan was re-examined as part of the development of the Transport Strategy. That re-examination supported the development of a rail line to Navan and the final Strategy now includes delivery of the line over the medium term.
I am pleased that the NTA has allocated funding to Iarnród Éireann for the establishment of a design team to commence work in 2024. This work will involve the route option selection, planning and design phases of the project. Iarnród Éireann has commenced the procurement process for this pre-construction phase of the project. It is anticipated that a route options public consultation will take place in late 2025 or early 2026.
Following this design work and public consultation process, the project will then advance through the relevant Approval Gates and planning process as required under the Infrastructure Guidelines.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
115. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has been contacted about providing funding for the east-west link road; if he will provide an update on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17515/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy department has been working with Cavan and Louth County Councils in relation to funding projects associated with the proposed upgraded East West Link Road. As the Deputy is aware the proposed scheme would run on regional routes from Dundalk to Cavan and national routes from Cavan to Sligo. Going back some time there was a proposal for a substantial upgrade of the regional road part of the route; my department provided over €2 million to Cavan County Council, acting as lead authority with Monaghan and Louth County Councils, to progress the regional road element of the project to preliminary design stage. However, more recent appraisal work has indicated a very substantial cost if the road scheme was fully implemented. As such, my department engaged Cavan County Council to carry out a risk-based analysis for the route between Dundalk and Cavan. This analysis explored the possibility of a series of interventions which could be implemented over time, and which could improve safety, journey times, and bring consistency to the travel speed along the route. From this risk analysis individual local authorities examined if, and how, projects identified could be brought forward, while taking into account their own priorities and available resources. Following this process, my department allocated funding to both Cavan and Louth County Councils to carry out initial assessments of two possible schemes. Subsequently, both Louth and Cavan County Councils submitted Strategic Assessment Reports for these two schemes. These submissions have been reviewed and funding has been provided to Cavan and Louth County Councils this year to proceed to the next phase.
116. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport to provide on update on his Department’s efforts to ensure continued low fares for public transport passengers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21558/24]
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 responsibility for the regulation of fares charged to passengers in respect of public transport services provided under public service obligation (PSO) contracts.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
117. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport the status of the funding for the redevelopment of rail lines, particularly the Navan line, in conjunction with the Department of Transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19495/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority, or NTA, has statutory responsibility for transport planning in the Greater Dublin Area, including County Meath.
The NTA's Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area, which I approved early last year, sets out a framework for transport investment across the region over a 20-year period from 2022 to 2042, and it provides a clear statement of transport planning policy for Counties Meath, Dublin, Louth, Kildare and Wicklow. Having a transport strategy is important to ensure we assess how the different modes can deliver for the region and also how we can sequence delivery to maximise benefits and deliver value for money.
The issue of a rail connection between Dublin and Navan was re-examined as part of the development of the Transport Strategy. That re-examination supported the development of a rail line to Navan and the final Strategy now includes delivery of the line over the medium term.
I am pleased that the NTA has allocated funding to Iarnród Éireann for the establishment of a design team to commence work in 2024. This work will involve the route option selection, planning and design phases of the project. Iarnród Éireann has commenced the procurement process for this pre-construction phase of the project. It is anticipated that a route options public consultation will take place in late 2025 or early 2026.
Following this design work and public consultation process, the project will then advance through the relevant Approval Gates and planning process as required under the Infrastructure Guidelines.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
118. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has been requested to allocate further money to the Department of Transport to help fund the repair of the rural road network, which is in bad need of repair urgently. [19496/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments. On 15th February an Exchequer investment of €658 million in our regional and local roads across the State was announced which represents an increase of €32 million over the 2023 allocations. Each local authority received an increase in funding for their Restoration Improvement grant. This Exchequer funding is intended to supplement realistic contributions from local authorities’ own resources. The primary focus for capital investment under the National Development Plan continues to be the protection and renewal of the regional and local road network which plays a critical role in supporting economic and community links throughout the country. Ireland's regional and local road network spans over 96,000kms. The network requires significant funding to ensure it remains fit for purpose, safe and resilience. In addition to protecting and renewing the regional and local road network, it is a priority to carry out targeted improvements to sections of the network and €677 million has been earmarked in the NDP, over its lifetime, for this aim. Lastly, I recognise the impact that persistent rainfall this winter has had on the regional and local road network and I am exploring options as to any supports that might potentially be provided to local authorities. This will of course be dependent on the availability of funding from across my Department's wider investment programme.
119. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Transport to provide an update on progress in delivering transport projects in north County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19786/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that my Department and its agencies have overseen the ongoing delivery of a number of projects in North County Dublin across various parts of our transport system.
BusConnects
BusConnects is a transformative programme of investment in the bus system, providing better bus services across our cities allowing passengers to travel more conveniently, quickly and sustainably. It is the largest investment in the bus system in the history of the State and is managed by the National Transport Authority (NTA).
Following a public consultation process, the Government approved the Preliminary Business Case for BusConnects Dublin in March 2022. 100 electric buses are currently entering service using charging infrastructure in Phibsborough and Summerhill. The H-Spine between Howth/Malahide and the City Centre launched in 2021. The Northern Orbital Routes, between Blanchardstown and Point Village, and Finglas and Howth Junction launched in 2022. An Bord Pleanála recently granted planning permission for four of the 12 Core Bus Corridor (CBC) schemes including the Clongriffin, and Ballymun/Finglas to City Centre CBCs. Construction of the CBCs is expected to start by 2026.
MetroLink
MetroLink will be a fully segregated and mostly underground new railway line between Swords and Dublin City Centre, via Dublin Airport. It is a key project under the National Development Plan 2021-30. MetroLink will improve the quality of the urban environment and people’s lives, as well as enable the development of more well-connected homes. It will contribute to a shift from the private car to more sustainable travel, helping to decarbonise the transport sector, in line with Government policy.
A significant milestone in the progression of the MetroLink project was cleared in July 2022, when I secured approval for the project from Cabinet under Decision Gate 1 of the Public Spending Code. This decision enabled the project to move to the planning application stage, and in September 2022 Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) submitted a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála.
An Bord Pleanála commenced an Oral Hearing in relation to MetroLink on February 19th, which concluded on March 28th. Dependent on the outcome of the planning process, construction of MetroLink is earmarked to commence over the coming years with a view to potential operation by the mid-2030s.
DART+
In December 2021, the Government approved the Preliminary Business Case for the DART+ Programme. The programme will significantly expand the DART rail network and services across the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) and Eastern region, through the roll-out of new overhead electric wires, capacity upgrades and new fleet (carriages). Overall, the DART+ programme will approximately treble the length of the existing electrified DART network, from 53km to 150km, and almost double capacity to/from Dublin city centre from circa 26,000 passengers to 50,000 passengers each way per hour.
As a key project within the DART+ programme, the DART+ Coastal North project involves an extension of the existing DART service from Malahide to/from Drogheda and a substantial increase in passenger capacity on the Northern line between Dublin city and Howth/Malahide/Drogheda. The existing overhead electric wires will be extended on the Northern rail line from Malahide to Drogheda in Co. Louth, along with other upgrades on the Northern route between Dublin city and Howth, Malahide and Drogheda. The route serves numerous towns and communities, many of which are growing substantially, including Clongriffin, Donabate, Skerries, Balbriggin, Laytown and Drogheda.
My officials have reviewed the Preliminary Business Case for the DART+ Coastal North, which will be brought to Cabinet to seek Government consent at Approval Gate 1 in the coming weeks. Pending this consent, a Railway Order Application will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála in the Summer.
Luas
The Luas Finglas project is part of a number of proposed Luas network extensions identified in the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) statutory Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) 2022-2042.
The preliminary business case for the Luas Finglas project has been submitted to the Department by the NTA and will be brought to Government for its consent by the Autumn in line with the Infrastructure Guidelines. This will enable the project to enter the statutory planning process through the submission of a Railway Order Application to An Bord Pleanála. The precise start date for construction of the Finglas project will depend on a number of factors, including a decision in relation to the planning application.
Active Travel
The National Transport Authority is working to deliver an ambitious programme of Active Travel projects in North Co. Dublin. In Fingal specifically, some of the projects currently in construction include:
• Harry Reynolds Road Project, which will provide 3km of walking and cycling infrastructure along the Harry Reynolds Road, and is expected to be completed in November 2024.
• R132 Minister’s Road to Blake’s Cross project, which will provide 2.3km of protected cycle lanes, upgrade of junctions and front of school treatments at Corduff National school, and is expected to be completed in Q3 2024.
• Donabate Pedestrian and Cycle Bridge, starting on site in July 2024, and expected to be completed in early 2025.
• 6 projects under the Safe Routes to School programme, expected to be completed in Q4 2024.
Other major projects currently in development include:
• Broadmeadow estuary greenway, a 4.25km greenway linking Malahide to Donabate across the Malahide estuary. Bridge works have commenced on site, and completion of full project is expected in 2026.
• Sutton to Malahide Greenway, 7.5km of high-quality greenway linking Sutton to Malahide. A planning application is expected to go to An Bord Pleanála in early 2025.
• Rathingle Rivervalley Swords project, which is currently at detailed design stage, and aiming to go to construction in 2025.
• Skerries Harbour Road project, which is currently at preliminary design stage.
There are numerous other Active Travel projects currently in the early stages of development.
These are expected to be delivered over the next number of years subject to availability of funding.
Dublin Airport
In the National Aviation Policy (2015) the Government confirmed its support for the new parallel runway at Dublin Airport – the North Runway - and the development of the Airport as a secondary hub airport with the necessary capacity to connect key existing and emerging global markets.
The North Runway is an investment by daa in a key piece of strategic national infrastructure for current and future generations in Ireland which will ensure that Dublin Airport can meet expected future demand. The project was delivered on time and on budget at €320m with no recourse to Exchequer funding.
The new North Runway officially opened on 24 August 2022. daa advise that the North Runway will be capable of delivering a 31% gain in connectivity by 2034, underpinning Dublin Airport’s position as a leading European Airport, a key European gateway to North America and a driver of economic growth.
As part of its current Capital Investment Programme, daa has submitted a planning application to Fingal County Council seeking to increase the passenger cap at Dublin Airport to 40m passenger per annum and planning permission for capacity enhancing projects including new aircraft piers and stands which will facilitate its development as a secondary hub airport.
Dublin Port
The Ports of National Significance are our key international maritime gateways, handling approximately 90% of all tonnage. The NDP recognises that Ireland must be capable of delivering additional ports capacity and the importance of ports in connecting Ireland to the rest of the world in terms of trade and transport. In line with NDP objectives and National Ports Policy, the State ports are continuing to progress projects under their Masterplans. These ports receive no state funding, with the infrastructure development being funded from port revenues and borrowings.
Dublin Port is progressing implementation of its Masterplan in order to ensure that the Port can provide for future sustainable growth and changes in facilitating seaborne trade in goods and passenger movements to and from Ireland and the Dublin region in particular. Works include the redevelopment of existing berths, creation of new berths, deepening of the port’s navigable channel from 7.8m to 10m draught, upgrading of the road network, provision of unified state services facilities for control and inspections and improvements in utility infrastructure. Approximately 25% of the overall project has been completed to date, with considerable work completed on the Alexandra Basin Redevelopment (ABR) which is the first of three Strategic Infrastructure Development projects. The project includes the deepening and extension of existing quay walls in Alexandra Basin, the provision of a new 270m long Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) vehicle trade jetty together with two new RoRo berths within the inner basin, infill of existing Berths 52/53, and the dredging of the Liffey fairway channel to a depth of 10m below Chart Datum. The final main civil engineering element of the project, the new quay walls at Alexandra Quay West, are currently under construction. This work was part funded by the EU's Connecting Europe Facility along with finance from the European Investment Bank.
Terminal 4 (T4) was one of the first ABR projects to be completed and provides capacity for handling European and UK unaccompanied RoRo freight units. The opening of the first phase of T4 in 2023 has allowed the Port to move some of its business to the new terminal and facilitates ongoing development works associated with the ABR Project, and the commencement of works on the MP2 Project. The opening of the first phase of T4 marks a major milestone in the project, as the fully completed terminal will have a capacity of 462,000 RoRo units, serving the RoRo berths created as part of the ABR Project. The MasterPlan 2 (MP2) Project is the second major capital development project from Dublin Port’s Masterplan 2040. Between the ABR Project and the MP2 Project, Dublin Port Company has now secured all of the planning permissions required for the major development works planned on the northern side of the port. The first main phase of the MP2 Project will commence in 2024, the construction of new Berth 53 and the eastern half of new Berth 52 at the eastern end of the North Port. This project will be followed by the completion of the western half of new Berth 52, so allowing the infill of a substantial basin area of circa 5.7 hectares to create additional cargo handling area. The new Berths 52 & 53 will be able to handle the largest in class RoRo vessels of up to 240m in length, and will have double-tier linkspans, so increasing the Port’s operational resiliency. Various enabling works, both land side and marine side, have been undertaken in 2022 and 2023 to allow the commencement of this first main project phase in 2024.
120. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on antisocial behaviour on public transport; his Department's work to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17702/24]
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.
Anti-social behaviour is a broad societal issue to which public transport is unfortunately not immune; and those who regularly use and work within our public transport network are most directly impacted by any safety or security incidents that may occur on the network.
While the safety and security of both public transport passengers and staff is of utmost importance, arrangements to deal with anti-social behaviour on public transport are matters which first and foremost must be managed by every public transport company, in conjunction with An Garda Síochána where appropriate.
Nonetheless, both my Department and the National Transport Authority engage regularly with operators on the issue, and the NTA has established a Working Group on Antisocial Behaviour which meets monthly with the operators to discuss developing trends and share best practice.
Further, each of the operators have their own safety and security policies in place, to deal with issues such as antisocial behaviour, and have introduced a number of initiatives in recent years to help combat the issue, including:
• Increased investment on security - for example, a substantial increase in spending on rail security, from €3.7m in 2016 to €6.0m in 2022;
• CCTV - the entire Dublin Bus fleet is fully fitted with CCTV cameras, with up to 11 internal cameras and three external cameras fitted on the more modern vehicles in the fleet;
• Radios on each Dublin Bus vehicle which facilitate immediate contact to a Central Control Centre;
• Text alert systems, and;
• Joint initiatives with An Garda Síochána.
Additionally, as part of my Department’s Sustainable Mobility Policy, the NTA has committed to develop and publish an annual ‘Public Transport Passenger Safety and Personal Security Report’ and implement measures where appropriate.
The issue raised by the Deputy in relation to the reporting of anti-social behaviour on public transport is an operational matter for each of the public transport operators. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus, and Transdev for direct response to the Deputy. Please advise my private office if you do not receive replies within ten working days.
