annual report 2002 CONTENTS
1. Introduction by Joint Secretaries 3
2. Chapter 1 - Background to North/South Ministerial Council 5
3. Chapter 2 - The Operation of the North/South Ministerial Council 9
4. Chapter 3 - NSMC Plenary Meeting 13
5. Chapter 4 - NSMC Sectoral Meetings and Activities 17
6. Chapter 5 - The Joint Secretariat 53
7. Annex 1 - Attendance at Plenary Meeting 55
8. Annex 2 - Attendance at Sectoral Meetings 57
9. Annex 3 - Financial Information 61
10. Annex 4 - North/South Bodies Contact Details 63
11. Annex 5 - North/South Bodies Board Members 67
12. Annex 6 - Departmental Information 71
2 INTRODUCTION BY JOINT SECRETARIES
3 INTRODUCTION
We are pleased to present this, could continue to carry out their the third Annual Report of the important public functions on a care North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC). and maintenance basis. As this Report As the Council noted at the Plenary goes to press, the two Governments are meeting held in June 2002, significant continuing their efforts to bring about progress has been achieved across a the restoration of devolved Government wide range of sectors. The North/South in Northern Ireland. Implementation Bodies have continued to exercise their functions for the It has been our privilege to work with mutual benefit of both parts of our colleagues in the Joint Secretariat the island, and have consolidated to support the work of Ministers and their position as part of the to help accomplish the efficient conduct institutional architecture established of business. Towards the end of the year under devolution. this important work was carried out against a backdrop of difficulties in Following the suspension of the the wider political process, and we Assembly on 14 October 2002, commend the staff of the Joint the Agreement between the two Secretariat for their commitment in Governments establishing the Bodies continuing to provide a quality service was amended by way of Exchange in a complex environment. of Letters. Under the terms of the amendment, “Decisions of the We would like to express our sincere North/South Ministerial Council on appreciation for the co-operation and policies and actions relating to the support of Ministers and officials in Implementation Bodies, Tourism Ireland both jurisdictions, and of the Boards and Limited or their respective functions staff of the North/South Bodies, without shall be taken by our two Governments. which our job would be impossible. No new functions shall be conferred on We look forward to playing our part the Implementation Bodies”. This was in the taking forward of North/South designed to ensure that the Bodies co-operation to mutual benefit.
Dr. Peter Smyth Tim O’Connor Joint Secretary (North) Joint Secretary (South)
Armagh November 2003
4 CHAPTER 1
BACKGROUND TO THE NORTH/SOUTH MINISTERIAL COUNCIL
5 THE NORTH/SOUTH MINISTERIAL COUNCIL 1.1 The North/South Ministerial referred to as the Areas for Council (NSMC) was established Co-operation), and in the case on Thursday 2 December 1999 of at least six others by means of on the entry into force of the new North/South Implementation British-Irish Agreement of 8 Bodies (also commonly referred March 1999, which was signed by to as the North/South Bodies) the British and Irish Governments operating at a cross-border or as part of the Agreement reached all-island level. in the Multi-Party Negotiations in Belfast on Good Friday, 10 April, 1.3 The six Areas identified as those 1998. The Agreement stipulates in which co-operation would be that the North/South Ministerial taken forward by the new Council will bring together those North/South Bodies, were: with executive responsibilities in Northern Ireland and the Irish • Inland Waterways Government to develop consultation, • Food Safety co-operation and action within • Trade and Business Development the island of Ireland - including • Special EU Programmes through implementation on an • Language (Irish and Ulster-Scots) all-island and cross-border basis - • Aquaculture and Marine Matters. on matters of mutual interest and within the competence of each 1.4 Aspects of six other Areas were Administration, North and South. identified as those in which The NSMC comprises Ministers co-operation would be taken of the Northern Ireland forward by existing bodies in Administration and the Irish each jurisdiction separately: Government, working together to take forward co-operation • Agriculture between both parts of the island • Education to mutual benefit. • Environment • Health AREAS OF OPERATION • Transport • Tourism, including OF THE COUNCIL Tourism Ireland Limited.
1.2 The Agreement provided that at 1.5 The British and Irish Governments least 12 subject areas would be subsequently concluded an identified for co-operation and Agreement on the establishment implementation for mutual of the North/South Bodies - benefit under the aegis of the “Agreement between the Council. Co-operation in these Government of Ireland and the areas would be implemented in Government of the United two ways - in the case of at least Kingdom of Great Britain and six of them by means of existing Northern Ireland establishing bodies in each jurisdiction Implementation Bodies,” signed separately (also commonly on 8 March, 1999 (“the British-
6 annual report 2002
Irish Agreement of 8 March, 1999”). This formally set out the functions and structure of the North/South Bodies and the common arrangements applying to them, and was given domestic effect, North and South, by means of the North/South Co-operation (Implementation Bodies) (Northern Ireland) Order, 1999, and the British-Irish Agreement Act, 1999, respectively.
1.6 The 12 Areas constitute those matters on which the Council can take decisions by agreement on (a) policies for implementation separately in each jurisdiction and on (b) policies and actions at an all-island and cross-border level for implementation by the North/South Bodies. Further development of these arrangements is possible by agreement in the Council, and with the specific endorsement of the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Oireachtas, subject to the extent of the competences and responsibilities of the two Administrations.
7 8 CHAPTER 2
THE OPERATION OF THE NORTH/SOUTH MINISTERIAL COUNCIL
9 THE FORMATS OF COUNCIL MEETINGS 2.1 The NSMC meets in a number the Agreement and the Northern of Formats. It meets in Plenary Ireland Act 1998 that participation Format with the Northern Ireland by the Executive in the NSMC Executive delegation led by the must be such as to ensure cross- First Minister and Deputy First community involvement. During Minister and the Irish Government 2002, a total of 17 meetings delegation led by the Taoiseach in Sectoral Format were held. and the Tánaiste. The task of the Plenary is to take an overview 2.4 All NSMC decisions are by of co-operation on the island agreement between the two and of the North/South sides in the Council. institutions. The NSMC met in Plenary Format once in 2002. FUNCTIONS OF This was in Armagh on 28 June. THE COUNCIL 2.2 The NSMC also meets in Institutional Format with the 2.5 The Council carries out a number Northern Ireland Executive being of functions in accordance with represented by the First Minister Strand Two of the Agreement. and Deputy First Minister and the These were set out in the Irish Government by the Minister Agreement, as follows: for Foreign Affairs. The task of the Institutional Format is • To exchange information, discuss to consider institutional and and consult with a view to co- cross-sectoral issues, including operation on matters of mutual in relation to the European Union interest within the competence and to resolve any disagreements. of both Administrations, North There were no NSMC meetings in and South; Institutional Format in 2002. • To use best endeavours to reach 2.3 The NSMC meets in Sectoral agreement on the adoption of Format to oversee co-operation in common policies, in areas where the agreed 12 Areas or Sectors, as there is a mutual cross-border described in Chapter 1. At these and all-island benefit, and which meetings, the Irish Government are within the competence of is represented by the Minister both Administrations, North and responsible for that Sector, while South, making determined efforts the Northern Ireland Administration to overcome any disagreements; is represented by two Ministers nominated by the First Minister • To take decisions by agreement and Deputy First Minister on a on policies for implementation cross-community basis, one separately in each jurisdiction, normally being the Minister with in relevant meaningful areas responsibility for the relevant within the competence of Sector within the Executive. This both Administrations, North is in line with the requirements of and South; 10 annual report 2002
• To take decisions by agreement Executive. The remaining two on policies and action at an Bodies, Waterways Ireland and all-island and cross-border the SEUPB, do not have Boards; level to be implemented by in each of these cases, the the North/South Bodies. functions of the Body are exercised by the Chief Executive. NORTH/SOUTH BODIES 2.9 The North/South Bodies are 2.6 Each of the six North/South funded from grants made by the Bodies operates on an all-island two administrations, North and basis. While having a clear South. The Bodies may employ operational remit, all function staff or may employ the services under the overall direction of of other persons for particular the North/South Ministerial purposes. In the initial stage of Council, with accountability lines their establishment the Bodies back to the Council and to the were largely staffed by civil Oireachtas and the Northern servants seconded from their Ireland Assembly. parent Departments, North and South. However, the Bodies have 2.7 The Bodies are: also been taking on directly recruited staff. Waterways Ireland 2.10 Further information on the work The Food Safety of the North/South Bodies is set Promotion Board (FSPB) out in Chapter 4.
The Trade and Business AREAS FOR CO-OPERATION Development Body (InterTradeIreland) 2.11 The Areas for co-operation and the aspects that were agreed for The Special EU Programmes initial consideration by the NSMC Body (SEUPB) are as follows: The North/South Language Body • Transport: strategic planning (consisting of two Agencies i.e. and development of cross-border Foras na Gaeilge and Tha Boord co-operation (while co-operation o Ulstèr-Scotch) would primarily arise in respect The Foyle, Carlingford and Irish of road and rail planning, it Lights Commission (FCILC) would take account of issues (consisting of two Agencies arising in the port and airport i.e. the Loughs Agency and sectors), and road and rail safety; The Lights Agency) • Agriculture: discussion of 2.8 In regard to three of the Bodies, CAP issues, animal and plant InterTradeIreland, the North/South health policy and research and Language Body and the FCILC, rural development; the functions of each Body are exercised by a Board appointed • Education: education for children by the NSMC. A fourth Body, the with special needs (eg autism, FSPB, has an advisory Board, also hearing impairment), educational appointed by the NSMC. In its underachievement, teacher case, the functions of the Body qualifications, and school, youth are exercised by the Chief and teacher exchanges; 11 • Health: accident and emergency policies. The agreement expressly planning; emergency services, provides that “No new functions co-operation on high technology shall be conferred on the equipment, cancer research and Implementation Bodies”. health promotion; Both Governments consult as appropriate in the exercise • Environment: research into of these powers to ensure the environmental protection, continued good governance of water quality management the Implementation Bodies and and waste management in Tourism Ireland. a cross-border context; NORTH/SOUTH • Tourism: it was agreed to establish a publicly-owned limited company MINISTERIAL COUNCIL to market the island of Ireland JOINT SECRETARIAT overseas as a tourism destination. 2.15 The work of the North/South 2.12 Further information on the work Ministerial Council is supported of the Council in these areas is by a standing Joint Secretariat, set out in Chapter 4. staffed by members of the Northern Ireland Civil Service and 2.13 Following the suspension of the the Irish Government Civil Service Northern Ireland Assembly on - see Chapter 5. 14 October 2002, an agreement between the UK and Irish Governments was made and contained in an exchange of notes dated 19 November 2002. This agreement provided a mechanism for decisions to be taken on policies and actions relating to the Implementation Bodies and Tourism Ireland Limited during the period of suspension of the Assembly.
2.14 It was deemed necessary to make provision for essential decisions to be taken to ensure continuation in those services provided by the Implementation Bodies. Only those decisions required to ensure the proper care and maintenance of the Implementation Bodies and Tourism Ireland in the performance of their necessary public functions are taken under what are known as Interim Procedures. The two Governments pursue only the policies and actions already agreed in the North/South Ministerial Council and do not introduce any new 12 CHAPTER 3
NSMC PLENARY FORMAT MEETING
13 NSMC PLENARY MEETING
3.1 The Council met in Plenary being done in the various sectors. Format in the Armagh City Hotel, Both sides looked forward to the Armagh, on 28 June. At this, delivery of further tangible the fourth Plenary Meeting, benefits to both jurisdictions. the Northern Ireland Executive delegation was led by the First North/South Minister, The Rt Hon David Trimble MP, MLA, and Deputy Consultative Forum First Minister, Mr Mark Durkan, MLA who jointly chaired the 3.4 The Council agreed an outline meeting. The Taoiseach, structure for a North/South Mr Bertie Ahern TD, led the Consultative Forum. A twice- Irish Government delegation. yearly conference will take place, comprising representatives of civil society, North and South. Activities The planning and organisation of the first conference would 3.2 The Council reviewed the be undertaken by a steering programme of co-operation committee drawn from the which it oversees and considered Northern Ireland Civic Forum a number of specific proposals. and the social partners in the South participating in the 3.3 The Council noted the 2001 Central Review Mechanism of Annual Report on the activities of the Programme for Prosperity the North/South Ministerial and Fairness, in liaison with Council. The Council also received the two administrations. The a progress report on the work of steering committee will also the NSMC in its sectoral meetings invite representatives from a between 1 January 2002 and 14 range of relevant organisations, June 2002. The Council heard North and South, to participate 14 reports on the valuable work in the conferences. annual report 2002
North/South dimension of North/South co-operation in that sector, Parliamentary Forum and that an EU Working Group should bring forward an overall 3.5 Recognising that any development assessment of EU issues likely to of a Joint Parliamentary Forum is arise. Further consideration will a matter for the Northern Ireland be given as to how the views of Assembly and the Houses of the the Council can be appropriately Oireachtas, the Council agreed reflected at EU meetings. that officials from the two administrations should make Obstacles to contact with officials in the elected institutions and report Cross-Border Mobility to the next Plenary Meeting. 3.8 The Council considered proposals Areas of Co-operation on Obstacles to Cross-Border Mobility on the island of Ireland. 3.6 The Council agreed that the A study on the matter, undertaken appropriate Ministers in the by consultants, had been published respective NSMC sectors should earlier in the year followed by an consider whether there were items extensive public consultation. falling within existing areas of co-operation which might be 3.9 The Council was pleased included in the future programme to note that since the of work in these areas. Ministers commissioning of the study also agreed that the Council and the consultation process, would examine proposals in a number of recommendations regard to North/South co-operation had already been implemented. currently taking place outside the In response to recommendations NSMC. The Council also agreed on the difficulty of accessing that there was a potential for information on issues related mutual benefit to be gained from to North/South mobility, the co-operation in areas such as Council agreed to establish a strategic investment /infrastructure website, providing comprehensive (including strategic transport and easily accessible information. issues). The Council acknowledged The Council decided that that any expansion of the current recommendations in the areas work programme of the NSMC of Education and Working, would require the specific Health, and Pensions should endorsement of the Northern be considered by relevant Ireland Assembly and the Houses Government Departments which of the Oireachtas. would bring forward detailed implementation proposals, including costs. The Council Co-operation on also agreed that other European Union Matters recommendations required further examination by officials from the 3.7 Recognising the importance two administrations. to both jurisdictions of the European Union (EU), the Council decided that at the next meeting of the NSMC in each sector Ministers may consider the EU 15 Irish Lights
3.10 The Council considered the provisions in the Agreement establishing the North/South Bodies for the transfer of the functions currently carried out by the Commissioners of Irish Lights to the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission. The Council recognised that complex issues surround such a transfer and asked the relevant Ministers and Departments, North and South, to examine the alternative possibilities as a matter of urgency and bring back proposals to Council. NSMC Accommodation
3.11 The Council noted a recently completed Economic Appraisal of the options for accommodation for the Joint Secretariat of the NSMC in Armagh and agreed that these options should be considered by the two administrations in liaison with the joint project team and brought forward to a future Council meeting. NSMC Website
3.12 The First Minister, Deputy First Minister and the Taoiseach launched the website for the North/South Ministerial Council. The website is intended to act as an initial point of contact for those interested in discovering more about the North/South Ministerial Council and its work. The website can be found at www.northsouthministerialcouncil.org
3.13 A list of the Ministers who attended the Plenary meeting is set out in Annex 1.
16 CHAPTER 4
NSMC SECTORAL MEETINGS
17 NSMC SECTORAL MEETINGS & ACTIVITIES INTRODUCTION 4.1.1 This Chapter provides an outline of the work of the NSMC in Sectoral Format during 2002. A list of the Ministers who attended these meetings is at Annex 2. TRADE AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SECTOR
TRADE AND BUSINESS Fitzsimons. The Board members DEVELOPMENT BODY - are set out in Annex 5. INTERTRADEIRELAND FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES
4.2.1 The Council meets in the Trade 4.2.3 InterTradeIreland’s mission, and Business Development Sector as stated in its Corporate Plan in order to take decisions on 2002-2004, is “to lead the policies and action to be development of the island implemented by the Trade and economy through distinctive Business Development Body - knowledge based interventions, InterTradeIreland. There were two which will produce significant meetings of the NSMC in its returns in the areas of cross- Trade and Business Development border trade and business Sector in 2002. These meetings development”. Its overall objective were held in Limerick on 23 is to promote North/South trade January and in Belfast on 26 June. and business development. To achieve this InterTradeIreland is 4.2.2 The Board of InterTradeIreland is working to develop the capability chaired by Dr Martin Naughton of businesses to trade on an and the Vice-Chair is Mr. Barry all-island basis by increasing the 18 annual report 2002
stock of knowledge and • approved InterTradeIreland’s information required by business proposed Staff Appraisal Scheme. and policy makers, and by improving the flow of such • noted InterTradeIreland’s Annual knowledge to those who can Review of Activities and Annual use it to create value. Accounts for 2001.
4.2.4 Under the overall policy direction 4.2.8 InterTradeIreland’s Operating of the NSMC, InterTradeIreland Plan for 2002 described projects works in close collaboration with that would be undertaken during the Department of Enterprise, 2002 as the initial phase of Trade and Investment, Belfast, the Body’s Corporate Plan the Department of Enterprise, 2002-2004. The Operating Plan Trade and Employment, Dublin, proposed major programmes of and with the existing development activity that were themed around agencies, North and South. the concept of knowledge, as relating to three Knowledge 4.2.5 InterTradeIreland also has the Domains - Knowledge Capital, objective of enhancing enterprise Knowledge Channels and competitiveness in a North/South Knowledge Carriers. The Plan context in areas such as skills comprised projects which availability, telecoms, information would promote the generation, technology and electronic the dissemination and the commerce. exploitation of the information and expertise required by Activities businesses and policy makers to expand all-island trade, business 4.2.6 At its meeting in this Sector on development and economic 23 January, the Council: co-operation. In noting InterTradeIreland’s Operating • approved InterTradeIreland’s Plan the Council asked that it Operating Plan for 2002; concentrate on key, tangible projects that would not overlap • approved InterTradeIreland’s with the planned activities of Financial Assistance scheme; other enterprise support agencies.
• noted an interim report by 4.2.9 InterTradeIreland’s proposals PriceWaterHouse Cooper on for a Financial Assistance Scheme Public Procurement on the provide for a robust process island of Ireland. for the appraisal, monitoring and evaluation of third-party 4.2.7 At its meeting in this Sector on proposals for financial assistance 26 June, the Council: where the promoter has not the financial resources to advance • approved in principle the a project. Projects must offer framework for developing the a credible contribution to the Digital Island concept; delivery of InterTradeIreland’s strategic objectives. Ministers • noted a paper on the potential also noted an interim report for enhanced co-operation in the by PriceWaterhouseCoopers area of Science and Technology; on Public Procurement on the island of Ireland. • noted InterTradeIreland’s framework Operating Plan for 2003; 19 4.2.10 During 2002 InterTradeIreland assist them to increase their level delivered over 30 new all-island of cross border trade; initiatives while at the same time growing its organisational •Science & Technology - capacity and capability, a process the building of networks and which involved both recruiting resources among the scientific, new staff and officially opening technological and financial its new headquarters in Newry. communities to help entrepreneurs realise the competitive benefits 4.2.11 Foremost among of forging new relationships InterTradeIreland’s all-island and ways of doing business; initiatives in 2002 were: •Business Information Services - •Equity Network programme - the provision of added value building awareness and business information services exploitation of the use of private to businesses North and South; equity to fund company growth, especially in the SME sector •Digital Island- a policy framework islandwide; designed to initiate the fullest exploitation of digital technologies •FUSION - an all-island technology in support of increased trade transfer project linking companies and business development on in one jurisdiction to research the island; institutes in the other jurisdiction through placing science and 4.2.12 Other initiatives focused on technology graduates within public procurement with companies to develop new GO-SOURCE.COM, an all-island products and processes; directory of public procurement opportunities; an all-island •FOCUS - an all-island structure benchmarking forum which aims and mechanism for increasing to assist SMEs to develop their marketing and sales opportunities capability and profitability; and through the use of graduate the mapping of biotechnology placements to identify new capability on the island. market opportunities; 4.2.13 Increased knowledge capital has •All Island Business Model -also been achieved through a a project which will see the comprehensive economic and engagement of the Economic business policy research agenda and Social Research Institute, that includes the reconciliation the Northern Ireland Economic of cross-border trade and related Research Council, the Central statistics, sectoral reports and Statistics Office, and the case studies. The co-ordination, Department of Enterprise Trade capture and dissemination of and Investment Statistics Branch this overall increased stock of in the delivery of new statistical knowledge has been facilitated information on cross-border by the development of trade and related trends; InterTradeIreland’s Information Resource Centre and website. •ACUMEN - setting up a project to provide small and medium enterprises with consultancy and sales support staff, in order to 20 annual report 2002
4.2.14 A series of awards, conferences and seminars such as the all- island trade awards, an all-island conference on equity venture capital attended by over 300 representatives from the financial services industry, and four North/South Business fora have created networking opportunities on an all island basis and enhanced knowledge, information and awareness about trading in the other jurisdiction. InterTradeIreland also made an important contribution in the biotechnology sector at the US/Ireland Business Summit held in Washington in September 2002.
4.2.15 Further information on InterTradeIreland can be found on the Body’s website www.intertradeireland.com
21 FOOD SAFETY
FOOD SAFETY Marketing and Communications, and Planning and Resources. This PROMOTION BOARD structure ensures that the Body is adequately resourced and the 4.3.1 The Council meets in the Food necessary supports are in place Safety Sector in order to take to develop and implement the decisions on policies and action programmes that support its to be implemented by the Food remit and the realisation of Safety Promotion Board (FSPB). its mission. The Council met twice in the Food Safety Sector in 2002. 4.3.4 The FSPB carries out its role These meetings took place on through public campaigns, 27 February and 28 June. conferences, training and advising professionals and the general 4.3.2 The FSPB is principally public. It is also involved in charged with the promotion supporting North/South scientific of food safety and supporting co-operation, and links between North/South scientific co- institutions working in the field operation and links between of food safety - laboratories, institutions working in the field statutory food safety enforcement of food safety. It has an Advisory agencies, international and Board of 12 members, appointed domestic research bodies. The by the NSMC . The Board is development of cost effective chaired by Mr. Bertie Kerr and specialised laboratory testing also the Vice-Chair is Professor Charlie falls within the Board’s remit. Daly. The Board members are The Board also has a role to set out in Annex 5. provide independent scientific assessment of food safety matters. FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES Cross-border co-operation in all of these areas, between organisations 4.3.3 The FSPB operates under the working in these fields, is central brand identifier ‘Safefood’ or to the work of the Board. in the Irish language ‘Biaslán’ and comprises three directorates; Scientific and Technical,
22 annual report 2002
Activities 4.3.8 Activities engaged in by the FSPB during the course of the 4.3.5 At its meeting in this Sector year included the following: on 27 February, the Council: • FSPB commissioned a number • noted the FSPB’s Annual Report of research projects to enable and Financial Statements a better understanding of the covering the period December factors that affect consumer 1999 - December 2000; behaviour and to develop the most effective ways of • approved an increase in the communicating food safety issues membership of the FSPB’s and information. This research Scientific Advisory Committee involved collaboration with to 18, by the appointment of researchers in Great Britain as nominees from the Food Safety well as North/South co-operation; Authority Ireland (FSAI) and the Food Standards Agency Northern • A Directory of Laboratory Ireland (FSANI); Services was produced, the purpose of which is to provide an • approved remuneration arrangements overview of the current available for staff other than the CEO. food safety analytical services offered by official agencies, non- 4.3.6 At its meeting in this Sector departmental public bodies/state on 28 June 2002, the Council: agencies and authorised approved private laboratories on the island • approved the FSPB’s draft of Ireland; Corporate Strategy for 2002-2004; • FSPB, in its responsibility to • approved the FSPB’s draft promote cross-border surveillance, New Targeting Social Need facilitated an expert group to Action Plan; review the surveillance of foodborne diseases. A consultation • approved the FSPB’s amended paper, ‘Towards the Enhancement draft Equality Scheme for of Foodborne Disease Surveillance’ submission to the Equality and a report ‘Microbial Food Commission for approval. Safety Surveillance on the Island of Ireland’ were published and 4.3.7 At its meetings in this Sector, the distributed to public health Council also received oral reports professionals and agencies across from the Interim Chief Executive the island of Ireland. Comments of the FSPB, which focused on arising from the consultation are the progress made by the Body. currently being reviewed by the Items covered in these reports Scientific Advisory Committee; included staff recruitment, accommodation, the work • In March 2002, FSPB published of the Scientific Advisory a report “A Review of the Health Committee, research fellowships, Effects of Stimulant Drinks”. The laboratory linkages, liaison with study was undertaken following other food safety agencies North a request by the Department of and South, launch of the Body’s Health and Children in November website, communication issues, 2000 to review the potential nutrition, surveillance and health effects on the population educational initiatives. from the consumption of 23 stimulant drinks, to assess 4.3.9 Advertising campaigns have knowledge gaps and consider established a clear link to any steps which would be needed the FSPB as the source of to provide appropriate protection authoritative food safety for public health; information and have publicised the Safefood Helpline numbers. • As part of the Food Safety As a measure of its impact, the Week in Northern Ireland, FSPB Safefood Helpline currently undertook the “Germ Warfare” receives 400 calls per month. summer campaign in conjunction Every opportunity is used to with the Food Standards Agency, highlight the Helpline as a Northern Ireland. Supported by source of trusted information 26 district councils, the format to the public through advertising, delivered educational and hygiene editorial and promotional materials. messages in a way that actively engaged the public; 4.3.10 Further information on FSPB can be found on the Body’s website • A major advertising campaign, www.safefoodonline.com co-funded in Northern Ireland by FSPB and the Food Standards Agency, to significantly increase awareness and reduce the risk of food poisoning in restaurants and other food outlets, was undertaken in Northern Ireland. Initially targeting the catering trade, the campaign ran on television, radio and newspapers and trade magazines.
24 annual report 2002
AQUACULTURE AND MARINE SECTOR
FOYLE, CARLINGFORD AND relevant provisions, British and IRISH LIGHTS COMMISSION Irish legislation would be brought forward to transfer the Commissioners of Irish Lights 4.4.1 The Council meets in the Aquaculture and Marine Sector in functions to the FCILC, these order to take decisions on policies functions then being exercised and action to be implemented by through an agency of the FCILC the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish known as the Lights Agency. Lights Commission (FCILC). The Council met twice in this sector 4.4.3 The transfer of the functions of in 2002. The meetings took place the Commissioners of Irish Lights on 1 February and on 15 April. to the FCILC, which was mandated in the British-Irish Agreement 4.4.2 The FCILC exercises its functions establishing the FCILC, has not to through two agencies. The date proved possible. There are functions of the Commission in relation to the Foyle and complex issues involved which Carlingford Areas are exercised require amendments to be made, through an agency known as the by way of UK legislation, to the Loughs Agency. The Loughs Merchant Shipping Act, 1995. Agency replaced the Foyle Fisheries Commission. It was also 4.4.4 This matter was discussed at intended that the FCILC would be the NSMC Plenary Meeting on the General Lighthouse Authority 28 June. The Council recognised for the island of Ireland. This that complex issues surround function currently rests with the such a transfer and asked the Commissioners of Irish Lights which has accountability to the relevant Ministers and Departments, UK Department of Transport, North and South, to examine the Local Government and the alternative possibilities as a Regions, as Trustee of the General matter of urgency and to bring Lighthouse Fund. Under the back proposals to the Council. 25 4.4.5 Discussions are ongoing between Activities the two Governments and the relevant Northern Ireland 4.4.9 At its meeting in this Sector Departments to address the on 1 February, the Council: legislative, corporate and financial issues involved. • approved the Loughs Agency’s Corporate Plan for 2002-04 and 4.4.6 The FCILC has a Board of 12 its Business Plan for 2002; members appointed by the NSMC. The Commission is chaired by Mr • noted developments in regard Peter Savage and the Vice-Chair to the formation of an Advisory is Lord Cooke of Islandreagh. The Forum to assist the Loughs membership of the Commission is Agency in its work in the Foyle set out in Annex 5. and Carlingford areas;
LOUGHS AGENCY • noted that the Loughs FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES Agency Equality Scheme had been approved by the 4.4.7 The Loughs Agency was given Equality Commission; responsibility for the functions of the Foyle Fisheries Commission • approved the New Targeting on 2 December 1999. These Social Need Action Plan of functions, “the conservation, the Agency; protection and improvement of the fisheries of the Foyle Area”, • reviewed the position in regard were extended to the Carlingford to an Aquaculture Licence in Area. In addition, the Agency is an area of Carlingford Lough; responsible for the promotion of the development of Lough • noted the current position in Foyle and Carlingford Lough regard to the bringing forward for commercial and recreational of fisheries legislation required purposes in the area of marine under the agreement on fishery and aquaculture matters, Implementation Bodies between the development of marine the UK and Irish governments; tourism and the development and licensing of aquaculture in • noted the current position on the Foyle and Carlingford Areas. the transfer of functions of the Commissioners of Irish Lights to 4.4.8 Fundamental to the Agency the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish undertaking this full range of Lights Commission. responsibilities is the amendment of the primary legislation under 4.4.10 At its meeting in this Sector which the Foyle Fisheries Commission on 15 April, the Council: operated. The necessary amendments to this legislation - • noted the Loughs Agency proposal the Foyle Fisheries Act 1952 and to convene a one day workshop to the Foyle Fisheries Act (Northern discuss the interaction of seals and Ireland) 1952 - are in the course Atlantic salmon; of preparation by the Department of Communications, Marine • noted that the report on the and Natural Resources and Loughs Agency Staffing and the Department of Agriculture Structure Review would be and Rural Development. formally submitted to the 26 annual report 2002
Department of Communications, catchments i.e. shellfish, Marine and Natural Resources commercial netting, angling, and to the Department for fishery owners, tourism, Agriculture and Rural Development, water/sewage, business/industry and to the Finance Departments, councils/government, port/harbour, North and South. environment, forestry and agriculture. Focus Groups to 4.4.11 The Loughs Agency Corporate research and consider salmon and Plan sets out the Agency’s seatrout, shellfisheries and marine proposed activities for the years tourism were also formed. 2002-2004, and its Business Plan set out a detailed work 4.4.13 The Foyle Area experienced one programme for 2002. New of the best salmon runs in recent initiatives to help manage the years with adult escapement fish stocks for which the Agency targets significantly exceeded on has responsibility are to be all the tributaries with counters. progressed. These include the These excellent returns triggered collection, audit and extension a one week extension to the of productivity information commercial netting season for the from Carlingford and Foyle first time since the introduction Loughs and development of of the Foyle Area (Close Season) genetic monitoring techniques Regulations 1999. The Loughs for the assessment of salmon Agency also reported to the stocks and their management. Council that the figures available Key activities include continuing indicated that the shellfisheries of to minimise the incidence of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough illegal fishing for salmonids, produced landing of mussels and delivery of fisheries development, European and Japanese oysters assisting in development of to a value of approximately recreational fishing and provision £4m/€ 6.4m during 2001. of technical fisheries advice towards the reduction in the incidences 4.4.14 The Agency addressed one of the of environmental damage to the major concerns of its “salmon” water courses of the Foyle and stakeholders through holding a Carlingford catchments. very successful workshop on the interaction between salmon and 4.4.12 The Agency employed seals. The scientific workshop, PriceWaterhouseCoopers to which was held on 15 May, undertake a recruitment and included experts from Britain and selection procedure to establish Canada and they reviewed past an Advisory Forum, which had and current research in the areas been mandated by the NSMC, of seal diet, behaviour and to assist the Loughs Agency in interactions with salmon and the effective management of the salmon fisheries. The workshop Foyle and Carlingford Areas. It made recommendations for is intended that this Forum will further research in regard to give stakeholders an input into quantifying the interaction of the Agency’s policy decisions. seals on salmon stocks, The Forum held its first meeting particularly in the Foyle area. on 23rd January 2002 with The recommendations included subsequent meetings during the “a variety of modern seal control year. The Forum has 49 members measures that should be tested representing various interest within the Foyle estuary”. groups throughout the 27 4.4.15 An audit of the Fisheries-based Recreation and Leisure Resource of both the Foyle and Carlingford Areas was completed towards the end of 2002 and this will form the basis for consultation with interest groups and the preparation of a development plan for the Foyle and Carlingford Areas.
4.4.16 The most significant development in the outreach strategy was the completion of the interpretive education and information facility “Riverwatch”. This facility is targeted beyond the current stakeholders with the objectives of informing the communities of both catchments about the unique and valuable resources of the loughs, rivers and streams. It will highlight the opportunities they provide for economic, social and environmental benefit to individuals, businesses and communities.
4.4.17 Further information on the Loughs Agency can be found on the Body’s website www.loughs-agency.org
28 annual report 2002
SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES SECTOR
4.5.1 The Council meets in the Special which is an integral component EU Programmes Sector in order of the both the National to take decisions on policies and Development Plan for Ireland and action to be implemented by the Northern Ireland Structural the Special EU Programmes Funds Plan. Body (SEUPB). There were two meetings of the Council in this Activities sector in 2002. These meetings took place on 20 February and 4.5.3 At its meeting in this Sector 9 October. on 20 February, the Council:
FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES • approved the SEUPB’s Annual Report and Statement 4.5.2 In 1999, the SEUPB had assumed of Accounts for the period 2 responsibility for the management December 1999-31 December 2000; of the 1994-1999 round of EU Structural Fund Programmes, • approved the SEUPB’s Corporate which had been previously Plan for 2002-04 and its Business undertaken by the Department Plan for 2002; of Finance and Personnel in the North and the Department • received a progress report on of Finance in the South. This recruitment to approved posts responsibility includes the closure and approved a number of issues of these Programmes no later relating to salary scales and than 31 March 2003. The SEUPB remuneration; is also the Managing Authority for the PEACE II and • noted the progress made on Ireland/Northern Ireland implementing the PEACE II INTERREG IIIA Programmes, Programme and on operationalising and monitors the performance the INTERREG III Programme; of the North/South elements of the other Community Initiative • noted progress reports on the Programmes (LEADER+, EQUAL work of the Joint Steering Group and URBAN II). The SEUPB also on the Common Chapter and has responsibility for monitoring agreed terms of reference for and promoting the implementation the Joint Steering Group. of co-operation between Ireland and Northern Ireland through the terms of the Common Chapter, 29 4.5.4 At its meeting in this Sector PEACE II Programme on 9 October, the Council: 4.5.7 The Peace II Programme became • noted progress on the closure fully operational in 2002. With of the PEACE I and INTERREG II calls for projects from over 50 Programmes; Implementing Bodies, comprising contracted Intermediary • agreed to the structure and Funding Bodies, Local Strategy membership of the INTERREG Partnerships and County Council- IIIA Steering Committee and led Task Forces, and Government that the final nominations for Departments North and South, membership of the Committee the SEUPB was busily engaged will be agreed by the INTERREG in developing and promulgating IIIA Monitoring Committee. operational policy and guidance to ensure consistency and • noted a report from the fairness and integrity with the Joint Steering Group on requirements of the Programme the Common Chapter; and EC Regulations. A substantial publicity programme was also begun. • noted the SEUPB’s New Targeting Social Need Action Plan. 4.5.8 Throughout the 2002 calendar year, over 900 applications 4.5.5 Using the procedure whereby were approved by the various decisions may be made in other Implementing Bodies, offering sectoral formats, the Council grants with a total value of approved a paper on behalf € 210m to projects. These projects of the Special EU Programmes were approved across the full Body which identified the Terms range of Programme’s activities of Reference for the Common including: community relations; Chapter Joint Steering Group support for victims; social at its meeting in the Agriculture inclusion; economic development; Sector on 15 April. cross-border cooperation. All of the funded projects contribute Corporate Issues to the overall objectives of the Programme by addressing the 4.5.6 The Corporate Plan and Business legacy of the conflict and/or Plan contain the key objectives taking opportunities arising from and operational targets that the peace. To ensure that this special Council uses to monitor the focus of the Programme is SEUPB’s performance and maintained, improved definitions activity. These updated plans for “distinctiveness” criteria were reflected both the expanding developed with the European implementation of the Commission and introduced. responsibilities which the SEUPB In addition all projects approved is required to undertake as the were required to contribute to PEACE II and INTERREG IIIA activities which pave the way Programmes became more fully to reconciliation. operational, and the commensurate staffing levels in line 4.5.9 As the projects started to expend with the organisational structure, resources, the SEUPB began to which the Council had approved monitor the contribution towards previously. NSMC also noted the the required financial spend SEUPB’s New TSN Action Plan. profile of the EC Funds, which 30 annual report 2002
has to be maintained to ensure Monaghan office, worked closely that money is not decommitted with the three Border Corridor from the Programme by the Groups to set up the INTERREG Commission’s first expenditure IIIA Partnerships to deliver three target date of 31 December 2003. Measures of Priority 1 of the The Body chaired three meetings Programme. The SEUPB is both of the PEACE II Monitoring the Paying Authority and the Committee which endorsed Managing Authority for the recommendations to ensure spend Programme and to ensure is achieved and implemented and accountability, the Community approved corrective actions where Initiatives team discharges necessary, including introduction the Managing Authority role, of a new, simpler, application with the Corporate Services form, and a much-reduced form Department in Belfast for small grants. undertaking the Paying Authority function. INTERREG IIIA Community Initiative Programme Other Community Initiatives
4.5.10 The INTERREG IIIA 4.5.12 In relation to the other Ireland/Northern Ireland Community Initiatives, the SEUPB Community Initiative also became continued to work closely with fully operational in 2002. The the relevant Managing Authorities European Commission approved and to develop North/South the Operational Programme in relationships. A very successful March 2002 and the first meeting seminar was held in Carrick-on- of the Monitoring Committee Shannon in May when “Equal” took place in Dundalk in June Partnerships, North and South, 2002, with the Programme being met to discuss areas of mutual formally launched jointly by concern and develop areas for Ministers North and South in future co-operation. The November. The Committee’s role Managing Authorities for Urban II is to supervise and monitor the (North Belfast and Ballyfermot, strategic implementation of the Dublin) identified implementation Programme, and its membership issues where co-operative action comprises representatives of could assist in their Programmes. Government Departments, The Leader+ Monitoring elected regional representatives Committees, North and South and social partners within the continued to work closely eligible areas of Northern Ireland together, and the Steering and the Border Region of Ireland. Committee for Cross-Border In agreeing to the proposed Rural Development brought structure and membership forward a number of projects of the INTERREG IIIA Steering where North/South co-operative Committee, the NSMC also action assists in implementing agreed that the Committee this Programme. would approve the final nominations for membership Common Chapter of the Steering Committee. 4.5.13 The Council noted that 4.5.11 The Community Initiatives team, a Common Chapter Joint which is based in the SEUPB’s Steering Group, comprising both
31 administrations and the NSMC Joint Secretariat had been set up to support the SEUPB in taking forward work on the Common Chapter with Departments, North and South. A methodology and associated work programme for recording Common Chapter Activity was developed and agreed by the Joint Steering Group. Initial work implementing the recording methodology and work programme, including developing inventories and recording Common Chapter inputs, was undertaken. A part of the SEUPB website was also dedicated to the Common Chapter and this will provide further promotion and information.
4.5.14 Further information on SEUPB can be found on the Body’s website www.seupb.org
32 annual report 2002
LANGUAGE SECTOR • approved the 2002 Business Plans for Foras na Gaeilge and Tha THE NORTH/SOUTH Boord o Ulstèr Scotch; LANGUAGE BODY • noted an update on the AN FORAS TEANGA preparation of the 2002-04 Corporate Plans for Foras na Gaeilge THA BOORD O LEID and Tha Boord o Ulstèr Scotch;
4.6.1 The Council meets in the • approved the contents of the draft Language Sector in order to Activity Reports for the period take decisions on policies and 2 December 1999-31 December action to be implemented by 2000 for Foras na Gaeilge and the North/South Language Body. Tha Boord o Ulstèr Scotch; The Council met once in the Language Sector in 2002. The • noted the draft unaudited meeting took place in Dublin Accounts for the period on 14 June. 2 December 1999-31 December 2000 for Foras na Gaeilge and FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES Tha Boord o Ulstèr Scotch;
4.6.2 The Language Body is a • agreed to the publishing of single Body reporting to the the approved Activity Reports North/South Ministerial Council, of Foras na Gaeilge and Tha but composed of two separate Boord o Ulstèr Scotch. and largely autonomous agencies: the Irish Language Agency/Foras na Gaeilge; and the Ulster-Scots 4.6.5 Using the procedure of decisions Agency/Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch. being made in other sectoral formats, the Council: 4.6.3 The Chairperson of Foras na • confirmed the appointment of Gaeilge, Maighréad Uí Mháirtín, Mr. Seosamh Mac Donncha as and the Chairperson of Tha Boord Chief Executive of Foras na o Ulstèr-Scotch, Lord Laird of Gaeilge at the Agriculture Artigarvan, are joint Chairpersons Sector meeting on 25 January; of the Language Body. The Body has a Board of 24 members • approved a paper on staffing and appointed by the NSMC. A list remuneration in Foras Na Gaeilge, of Board Members and their and approved the appointment agencies is at Annex 5. of Mairéad Nic Sheagháin to the Board of the Language Body at 4.6.4 At its meeting in this Sector the Agriculture Sector meeting on 14 June, the Council: on 15 April;
• approved the draft Equality • endorsed a project for the Scheme for the Language Body improvement of teaching and agreed to its submission to materials in Irish in Gaeltacht the Equality Commission; Primary schools and in Gaelscoileanna, and the recruitment • approved the Amalgamated Codes process for the personnel required of Conduct for the Language from Foras na Gaeilge, at the Body Board Members; Special EU Programmes Body meeting on 9 October. 33 FORAS NA GAEILGE • The promotion of policy recommendations in relation to the Official Languages Bill, 2002 and in the field of Education, Broadcasting, An Ghaeltacht and the Arts.
• Launch of Dictionary of Parliamentary Terms by An Ceann Comhairle in Dublin in March and by the Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly in FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES Stormont in May.
4.6.6 Foras na Gaeilge has • Foras na Gaeilge provided sponsorship for many worthwhile responsibility for the promotion projects including, The All-Ireland of the Irish language on an Camogie Final in Croke Park, all-island basis. Féile an Phobal in Belfast, Ros na Rún on TG4, The Tidy As well as taking over the 4.6.7 Towns Competition, and Saint functions of Bord na Gaeilge Patrick’s Festival. the Agency was given a wide range of functions to add to • In the area of publications, Foras its effectiveness in promoting na Gaeilge provided funding for Irish. For example in the area Foinse, Lá, Comhar, Feasta, An of education, dictionaries tUltach, The Website www.beo.ie, and terminology, it assumed and also published 11 editions of responsibility for the Terminology its own newspaper Saol. Committee and took over the functions of An Gúm. • The Irish Language Development Officer scheme was continued in 4.6.8 Maighréad Uí Mháirtín is local authorities and in health Chairperson of Foras na Gaeilge boards, and an Irish language and there are 15 other members co-ordinator was appointed by on the Board. the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland in partnership with Activities an Foras. • Commencement of tendering 4.6.9 The Foras na Gaeilge Business process for first phase of English/ Plan for 2002 described the Irish dictionary project commenced. activities to be undertaken to address the key challenges and • Production of over 60 publications objectives contained in its including primary and post strategic plan, together with primary educational resources, the resources it will employ. textbooks, language reference material and reading material 4.6.10 Activities undertaken by Foras na for young people. Gaeilge during the year included: • Beginning of Irish language • Funding for in excess of 20 resource project for Irish medium organisations, North & South, as primary schools in conjunction well as over 100 substantive projects with the Department of Education and up to 400 minor ventures. and Science in the South. 34 annual report 2002
• A list of miscellaneous terms, • In partnership with the Arts comprising 16 years worth of Council of Northern Ireland, the enquiries discussed by An Coiste Ulster-Scots Agency and the Stiúrtha (The Steering Committee) Ultach Trust, Foras na Gaeilge of An Coiste Téarmaíochta (The commissioned research into Irish Terminology Committee) was & Ulster Scots Arts in Northern edited, tagged and issued on Ireland, together with a needs and the website www.acmhainn.ie. audit analysis, and a draft report was provided in December 2002. • The editorial work on a new dictionary of over 10,000 • Over 30 translation agencies and computing terms was completed. projects relating to terminology and machine-assisted translation • Agreement between Foras na were grant-aided and a website Gaeilge and the Department of for translators, Acmhainn.ie, was Education and Science in relation established. To date this website to the production of resource has received over 60,000 hits. material for the teaching of Irish in Gaeltacht and all-Irish • Training workshops for creative primary schools. writers and Irish language actors were conducted in Belfast , • Development of a scheme to Connemara, Donegal, Dublin, facilitate Irish medium post Cork, Galway & Kerry. primary schools to foster co- operation with primary schools 4.6.11 Over 100 projects, relating to in their catchment areas in the the arts, ranging from drama provision of Irish medium activities. (children & adults), to arts festivals, to the visual arts, to • Research in partnership with sean-nós singing, to storytelling Gael-Linn on public attitudes and to mime, throughout the in Ireland North and South on island, were supported. the use of computer software and the Internet, on learning the 4.6.12 Further information on Foras Irish language. na Gaeilge can be found on the Agency’s website • Development in partnership with www.forasnagaeilge.ie the private sector of computer software for learning of Irish.
• Development of training courses for teachers, in partnership with the NCTE and Education Centres in the creation and use of content-free computer software.
• Áis (the book wholesaling division of Foras na Gaeilge) had total sales of € 1,019,665 in 2002, an increase of 6.88% on the previous year. New Irish language publications added to the stock list in 2002 numbered 176.
35 THA BOORD O ULSTER SCOTCH from the College. A significant amount of material has now been THE ULSTER-SCOTS AGENCY produced and seminars have been held to inform fellow teachers and others as to what is being proposed. This has received very positive feedback. It is hoped to roll out the material to selected schools on a pilot basis from September 2003 as a prelude to making it generally available.
4.6.17 The Agency continues to give FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES financial support to a wide range of community groups who 4.6.13 Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch has engage in Ulster-Scots activities responsibility for the promotion including music, dance and of greater awareness and use drama. This support is creating of Ullans and of Ulster-Scots renewed interest in the culture cultural issues, both within of the Ulster-Scots particularly Northern Ireland and throughout among young people. The growth the island. in the number of highland dance classes is particularly significant. 4.6.14 The Lord Laird of Artigarvan is Ulster-Scots pageants and the Chairman of Tha Boord o festivals organised in Kilkeel and Ulstèr-Scotch and there are 7 Newry, County Down and in other members on the Board. Derry/Londonderry (Maiden City Festival) have also provided the Activities foundation for a potential increase in cultural tourism. 4.6.15 The 2002 Business Plan for Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch is aligned 4.6.18 The Chairman of the Agency with the Boord’s Corporate Plan welcomed Eamon O’Cuiv, Minister for 2001 - 2003 in relation to for Community, Rural and four strategic themes: Linguistic Gaeltacht Affairs in the South, to Development, Culture, Education, Northern Ireland for a tour of and Public Understanding of important Ulster-Scots sites in Ulster-Scots Language and September 2002. This included Culture. The plan identifies visits to the Jackson Homestead resources, objectives, key at Boneybefore near Carrickfergus, deliverables, targets and impacts Templecorran, and Ballycarry. associated with activities relating to the four themes. 4.6.19 The Agency launched its own newspaper “The Ulster-Scot” 4.6.16 An important development for during 2002 which is issued as a the Agency during 2002 was the free supplement in the Belfast commissioning of Stranmillis Newsletter. This provides a wide University College to undertake a range of information and news project to provide Ulster-Scots about Ulster-Scots issues and events. resource materials for Key Stages 1 & 2 in Primary Schools. Two 4.6.20 Further information on the teachers were seconded from their Ulster Scots Agency can be normal teaching duties to found on the Agency’s website undertake the project under the www.ulsterscotsagency.com supervision of a project manager 36 annual report 2002
INLAND WATERWAYS SECTOR
WATERWAYS IRELAND The Shannon-Erne Waterway, The Erne System, The Grand Canal, 4.7.1 The Council meets in the Inland The Barrow Navigation, The Waterways Sector in order to take Lower Bann Navigation, The Royal decisions on policies and action Canal, The Shannon Navigation. to be implemented by Waterways Ireland. The Council met once in 4.7.3 Waterways Ireland is also charged its Inland Waterways Sector in with taking forward further 2002. This meeting took place in studies and appraisals in relation Belfast on 26 June. to the possible restoration of the Ulster Canal.
FUNCTIONS/OBJECTIVES 4.7.4 The Body operates in three regions: Northern, Eastern and Western. 4.7.2 Waterways Ireland’s primary function is the management, Activities maintenance, development and restoration of certain inland navigable waterway systems 4.7.5 At its meeting in this sector on throughout the island, principally 26 June, the Council: for recreational purposes. Waterways Ireland is responsible • approved Waterways Ireland’s for the following navigation Corporate and Business Plan for systems, which were previously the period 2002 - 2004; under the respective control of the Department of Community, • noted the position in relation Rural, and Gaeltacht Affairs in the to accommodation requirements, South and the Department of including the proposal for a Agriculture and Rural permanent headquarters building Development in Northern Ireland: in Enniskillen, and agreed to determine the accommodation issues bilaterally;
37 • approved Waterways Ireland’s has its source in Celtic mythology New Targeting Social Need and folklore, which suggests that Action Plan; the Celts considered rivers, wells, springs and lakes to be sources of • approved Waterways Ireland’s therapeutic power. Equality Scheme for formal submission to the Equality 4.7.9 Work on a draft marketing and Commission; promotional strategy progressed in 2002 with an independent • noted the position in relation to consultancy company Waterways Ireland’s recruitment undertaking initial field research and staffing; on all the waterways on behalf of Waterways Ireland. • noted Waterways Ireland’s Statement of Accounts for 2000; 4.7.10 An eight page brochure entitled “A Glimpse of our Waterways” • noted a progress report on the was produced in full colour and consultation process on the Ulster provides useful information and Canal Feasibility Study. contact details for each of the waterways and for the Body. 4.7.6 Under the exchange of notes of 19 November 2002 Ministers 4.7.11 A safety video was also produced approved pay awards due from 1 in conjunction with the hire boat October 2002 for Waterways associations. The video provides a Ireland employees. comprehensive guide to safety on and around the waterways. 4.7.7 An extensive programme of recruitment to achieve the 4.7.12 Waterways Ireland’s first annual full staff complement of staff conference was held in administrative, technical and 2002. The Directors of Waterways professional staff got underway. Ireland addressed the conference Progress was made on a number and guest speakers included of other issues related to the representatives from British administration of the new Body, Waterways, the parent departments including the putting in place and the NSMC Joint Secretariat. of necessary financial procedures and the development of an 4.7.13 Waterways Ireland has continued information technology system. to interact with all the users An interim website for the of the waterways including organisation went live in July. the commercial hire boat users, A Press and Information Office the private boat users, and the was established, and development communities and Councils along of a series of communication the waterways. guidelines, including a Customer Care Strategy, was begun. 4.7.14 At an operational level, Waterways Ireland completed 4.7.8 Waterways Ireland has developed the extension of the Shannon a corporate identity and will be Navigation from Lough Key to including it in its publications a point within walking distance and signage in a rolling of the town of Boyle, Co programme. The inspiration Roscommon. This allows boat behind the creation of the figure traffic to come within easy reach representing Waterways Ireland of the town, terminating at a 38 annual report 2002
harbour with accommodation for 27 vessels and complete with pump-out station, fully equipped service block, car park and refuse disposal facility. Major capital works started at Ballyleague, Shannonbridge and Scarriff will also increase the mooring facilities on the Shannon Navigation. Other projects included the provision of an access causeway and breakwater at Spencer Harbour, Co Leitrim.
4.7.15 A comprehensive programme of capital works for the continued restoration of the Royal Canal included the reconstruction of embankments and the construction of a new bridge adjacent to the existing Pake Bridge in Co Longford. Towpath enhancement and locks refurbishment have also been undertaken.
4.7.16 Proposals have also been agreed for developing the navigational infrastructure on the Erne System and the Lower Bann Navigation by developing new jetties, installing new markers and point moorings, upgrading pump-out facilities and improving signage.
4.7.17 An updated feasibility study into the re-opening of the Ulster Canal has been completed and submitted to Departments. As this is a potentially significant cross-border project, with major financial, economic, environmental and social implications, a comprehensive assessment process is underway.
4.7.18 Further information on Waterways Ireland can be found on the Body’s website www.waterwaysireland.org
39 TOURISM SECTOR
4.8.1 The Council in this sector determined and approved by the oversees the work of Tourism two administrations, and agreed Ireland Limited, the publicly- its Marketing Programme and owned limited company, which budget subject to approval of is responsible for marketing Finance Ministers. The Council the island of Ireland overseas as a noted that the Company tourist destination. The Company will develop sophisticated has a Board of 12 members performance measures for the appointed by NSMC. The tourism sector and the Company Chairperson of the Company is itself, and that these will form Mr. Andrew Coppel and the Vice the basis of measuring the Chairperson is Ms. Ann Riordan. performance of the Company in achieving the mandate set 4.8.2 The Council met once in the out for it by the Council. Tourism Sector in 2002. This meeting took place on 22 February. 4.8.4 Under the exchange of notes of 19 November 2002 Ministers: 4.8.3 The Council considered a progress report by the • approved Tourism Ireland’s Chairperson of Tourism Ireland Marketing and Operating Limited, which summarised Plan for 2003; progress made in relation to the launch of the company, its • noted Tourism Ireland’s Annual marketing programme, staffing Report and Accounts for 2001, and premises. The Council also prior to these being laid before considered Tourism Ireland’s the Northern Ireland Assembly Operating Plan 2002, which set and the Houses of the Oireacthas; out Tourism Ireland’s corporate and marketing programmes • approved Tourism Ireland’s overall along with a summary of resource budget of € 47,853,000/£29,656,000 requirements for 2002. The for 2002; Council agreed Tourism Ireland’s Corporate Plan for 2002-2004, subject to budgets being 40 annual report 2002
4.8.5 Tourism Ireland has two key goals marketing and promotional - to increase tourism to the island campaigns on the world stage. of Ireland and to support Northern Ireland to realise its 4.8.7 In 2002 Tourism Ireland tourism potential. In its initial focussed its marketing year of operations, Tourism programme on winning business Ireland successfully completed by concentrating resources and its first comprehensive all-island effort on markets and niches marketing and communications which were identified as programme, marking a milestone promotable even in the face in the history of tourism on of the barriers to travel which the island. Prior to formulating existed. Key to its strategy was its marketing strategy for to work in partnership with the 2002, Tourism Ireland led industry and to provide maximum a comprehensive market promotional support. Tourism intelligence review post - Ireland consults regularly with September 11 to assess the the all island Tourism Marketing impact on international travel Partnerships it established patterns, in conjunction with both on an all-island basis Bord Fáilte, the Northern Ireland and overseas to discuss strategy Tourist Board and the industry. and plans on an ongoing basis. The company followed the launch of its Marketing Programme in 4.8.8 Despite a difficult and challenging Ireland in November 2001 with environment in 2002, official a series of launches in its major figures show that overall visitor markets, namely, USA, Canada, numbers to the island of Ireland Britain, Germany and France. This have increased by 2.4%. This sees was the first integrated all-island the industry come very close to marketing programme for tourism achieving the ‘best case’ scenario on the island of Ireland. The envisaged by Tourism Ireland at Marketing campaign is now well the end of 2001 and represents a underway in over 20 countries considerable achievement by the across the globe. The campaign, entire sector. This overall figure which incorporates both does, however, mask a number of television and print advertising challenges including a change in had a year one media budget the ‘mix’ of visitors to the island in excess of £6m/€ 10m. which Tourism Ireland and the industry will need to address in 4.8.6 An important objective of the coming year. The company Tourism Ireland is to support the has set itself the target of efforts of the industry in increasing tourist numbers to Northern Ireland to achieve its the island and supporting potential by gaining incremental Northern Ireland to realise its growth for Northern Ireland potential as a tourist destination. above and beyond the level Over the period 2002-2004, it achieved for the island of Ireland aims to increase visitor numbers as a whole. Tourism Ireland is to the island by 15.4% i.e. to 7.9 delivering on this remit by selling million visitors per annum. The Northern Ireland as an integral Council has endorsed this target part of a single tourist destination and has assured the company of to the island of Ireland and by its support in ensuring that the increasing the Northern Ireland potential of the industry is presence and prominence in realised to the full. 41 4.8.9 Operationally, the organisation 4.8.10 Drawing on the best practice of has achieved a seamless both tourism boards and on new transition. The company has put expertise, Tourism Ireland has in place its full management expanded its research capabilities team and is in the process of and developed systems which completing the transfer of staff enable it to respond quickly from Bord Fáilte Éireann and the as opportunities arise. The Northern Ireland Tourist Board. organisation is now well New offices in Dublin and positioned at the cutting edge of Coleraine were opened later in international tourism marketing. the year and Tourism Ireland now has over 150 people based in 4.8.11 Further information on Tourism offices in Dublin, Coleraine and Ireland Ltd. can be found in 14 locations throughout the on the company’s website world. The NSMC also agreed www.tourismireland.com to the establishment by the company of a new single office in London, subject to final clearance of location and costs by sponsor Departments.
42 annual report 2002
EDUCATION SECTOR • plans for the Centre for Cross-Border Studies, Armagh, 4.9.1 The aspects of North/South to host a Special Education co-operation in Education teacher on secondment to that were agreed for initial organise and facilitate a jointly- consideration by the North/South funded programme to promote Ministerial Council were professional dialogue and joint education for children with working at a strategic level; special needs; educational under-achievement; teacher • The development of videos for qualifications; and school, parents of children with autism or youth and teacher exchanges. dyslexia and CD-ROM/DVD-ROM material for teachers and other 4.9.2 The NSMC met once in the professionals in these areas of Education Sector in 2002. This special education. meeting was held on 11 April. 4.9.4 The Council noted progress by 4.9.3 The Council noted the progress the Literacy/Numeracy Working being made by the Special Group on proposals to examine Education Co-ordination Group the feasibility and desirability that is focussing initially on of having an all-island facility for Autism and Dyslexia. This includes: the training of reading recovery tutors and for the development • the endorsing of the agreement of early literacy skills. The reached between the two Council also noted the continued Education Departments and co-operation in the areas of joint representatives of the St Louis training for teachers and sharing Order, for the purchase of the of teaching materials. former St Joseph’s Adolescent Training Centre, Middletown, 4.9.5 The Council also noted Co Armagh, for the establishment that work is continuing in of a Centre of Excellence in relation to the issues around the education of children with teachers’ superannuation and Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). qualifications, seeking to reduce The Centre is to be an all-island barriers to North/South mobility facility providing expert advice in this profession. and guidance on best practice in the field of assessment of children 4.9.6 The Council endorsed the and young people with ASDs, the intention of the Education training of teachers and other Departments, North and South, professionals, support for parents, to proceed to give effect to the and the development of education proposals of a consortium of plans for individuals. The facility public sector bodies to improve will also include a research and the ways in which cross-border resource facility for ASD; schools, youth and teacher exchanges are managed and • the publication of four in-depth facilitated. The proposals include reports from the Task Forces on creation of new all-island Autism and Dyslexia which had arrangements comprising been established separately by a programme management the Department of Education committee, a standing advisory and the Department of Education committee and a joint delivery and Science; agency. The Council noted the 43 progress and co-operation to date by the two Education Departments in their administration and management of Measure 5.5 of the PEACE II Programme. This Measure promotes school and youth co-operation in a cross-border context.
4.9.7 The Council was informed that legislation is to be introduced into the Northern Ireland Assembly by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to provide for the protection of children and vulnerable adults. Moves are also to be made by the Department of Education and Science to consult interested parties on the development of a register of people deemed unsuitable to work with children and young people.
4.9.8 The Council agreed that the EU proposal to designate the year 2004 as “The European Year of Education through Sport” presented opportunities for joint initiatives involving education, sport and health related matters.
44 annual report 2002
AGRICULTURE SECTOR prior to final agreement of the strategy by NSMC. 4.10.1 The aspects of North/South co-operation in Agriculture 4.10.5 In relation to phytosanitary issues that were agreed for initial of Plant Health and Pesticides the consideration by the North/South Council noted the current level of Ministerial Council were Common co-operation and encouraged the Agricultural Policy (CAP) issues, appropriate authorities, North and animal and plant health South, to pursue areas suggested policy and research, and for extended co-operation in rural development. Plant Health, including a consideration of opportunities for 4.10.2 The NSMC met three times in the co-operation in relevant Research Agriculture Sector during 2002. and Development. The Council These meetings took place on 25 considered a paper on “Plant January, on 15 April and on 27 Health - Pesticides, Diagnostics September. and Research Co-operation”, and noted the continued and 4.10.3 Ministers acknowledged the close proposed level of cross-border co-operation between the two activity in these areas. The administrations, and the resultant Council also noted developments minimisation of the impact of in relation to pesticides Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) monitoring and registration on the island of Ireland. It review, and the proposal to was agreed that representatives organise reciprocal familiarisation from each administration should visits, workshops, staff training be asked to participate in reviews and ring tests for diagnostic into FMD being considered purposes as a means of improving separately in the North and cross border scientific and South. The Council also technical co-operation and agreed that a co-ordinated and harmonisation in plant health, complementary approach to the including forestry. issue of portal controls should be developed and maintained. 4.10.6 The Council noted progress relating to the two Cross Border 4.10.4 In relation to animal health, the studies commissioned by the Council noted a paper indicating Steering Committee on Cross- the principal policy differences, Border Rural Development. The the possibilities for convergence Council endorsed the principle of and the timetable for action to an area based approach to cross achieve convergence. The Council border rural development which endorsed the paper as a further will be advanced through the contribution to the development INTERREG III Programme. The of an all-island Animal Health Council noted that the Steering Strategy and acknowledged that Committee will give further further progress on aligning consideration on the appropriate policies and measures was responses to the recommendations fundamental to the development of the Cross-Border Education, of the strategy. The Council Training and Research study. noted the indicative timetable Under PEACE II the Council for convergence and agreed that noted that the Rural Community officials should seek to finalise Network and Irish Rural Link discussions with GB authorities have been successful in their 45 application to deliver Priority 5 Measure 6(a) Agriculture and Rural Development Co-operation: Cross- Border Community Development.
4.10.7 In relation to the Pig Industry the Council agreed that officials should continue the process of engaging with the Pig Industry and the development agencies for the purpose of promoting the recommendations of the joint study commissioned by the Council, and improving the competitive position of the pig sector on the island as a whole.
4.10.8 The Council received updates on WTO negotiations, EU enlargement and CAP reform.
46 annual report 2002
ENVIRONMENT SECTOR develop a structured co-operative approach to a joint Market 4.11.1 The aspects of North/South Development Programme. co-operation in Environment The Steering Group identified that were agreed for initial recently commissioned research consideration by the North/ on all-island waste streams, South Ministerial Council which would provide valuable include water quality information to their work management, waste management programme. The Council agreed in a cross-border context, that the Steering Group should research into environmental submit proposals for developing protection, environmental an all-island strategic approach databases, environmental to market development for impacts of agriculture, and recyclable material, taking information exchange and account of developments in environmental awareness. Great Britain, and make recommendations on appropriate 4.11.2 The Council met once in the linkages between Market Environment Sector in 2002. The Development Programmes, meeting took place on 17 April. North and South. Work continued during the year and good 4.11.3 On water quality management, progress was made on drawing Ministers agreed that the work up these proposals. undertaken on the management strategies for the Erne and Foyle 4.11.5 The EU Regulation on Ozone catchments should be incorporated Depleting Substances (ODS) came into the arrangements being into effect on 1 January 2002 for developed for implementation domestic fridges and freezers. The of the EU Water Framework Regulation requires the removal Directive (WFD) in relation to of all ODS from waste fridges and cross-border river basins generally. freezers on disposal. No facility Work continued throughout the currently exists in Ireland for the year on a wide range of activities removal of ODS and neither for implementation of the WFD. jurisdiction individually would As requested by the Council, have sufficient numbers to make proposals were developed for the the establishment of a facility delineation of International River economically viable. In Basin Districts (IRBD’s) as recognition of this and given required under the Directive, the potential for benefits from a joint Consultation Paper on economies of scale the two the implementation of the WFD environment departments have and in particular the delineation been working closely to identify of IRBD’s was drawn up and local authority support for an funding matters (including all-island solution to the problem. Interreg IIIA North/South) The Council noted the joint in relation to cross border WFD approach being developed in implementation activities and conjunction with local authorities IRBD management projects North and South for the provision were pursued. of an all-island service. Tenders were invited in September 2002 4.11.4 On waste management the for the placing of a contract for Council had previously agreed an effective system of management, that a co-operative approach including collection, transportation should be taken to encourage storage and treatment of waste and support the expansion of fridges and freezers, in both waste recycling. The Council jurisdictions. Evaluation of noted the progress report from tenders was on going at year-end. the Steering Group set up to 47 4.11.6 The Council also noted progress initially contained information on on a proposal for the establishment water quality. However the Council of an all-island Community agreed that EHS and EPA would Recycling Network including the continue to co-operate in the commissioning of consultants to collation of data and population prepare an economic appraisal on of the database on other priority the proposal. This appraisal was areas such as air quality, nature undertaken in 2002. It is conservation and waste. intended that a joint report on the proposal with recommendations 4.11.9 The Council previously approved for future action will be produced a scoping study into the main for consideration of Ministers in environmental impacts of due course. agriculture with a view to developing co-operation on 4.11.7 The Council noted that the work nutrient management and spent it had commissioned on setting mushroom compost. Researchers up a joint register of current were selected to take forward the environmental research projects study under scientific supervision has been completed. In April and to report back to a Steering 2002 Ministers formally launched Group of officials from environment the aNSwer (a North South and agriculture departments Website of Environmental and agencies North and South. Research) website, which provides Ministers noted the work access to information on undertaken by the researchers and environmental research in the the joint report, setting out the island of Ireland. People and baseline information identified organisations with an interest in by the scoping exercise as well as environmental research will be some recommendations for future able to find out what research is co-operation, was nearing currently being undertaken and completion by year-end. tell others about their own area of research. Sharing this information 4.11.10 With regard to information is expected to help researchers exchange and environmental and sponsors avoid duplication of awareness raising, the Council effort and cost, find partners for approved a 12 month work collaboration and identify potential programme containing a range sources of funding. Access to the of co-operative initiatives on aNSwer website is via its own shared information resources. The website address (www.answer- programme concentrated on the online.org) and through the exchange/pooling of materials Environment and Heritage Service including joint exhibitions, (EHS) and the Environmental factsheets, an information Protection Agency (EPA) websites. booklet on waste, website links and an environmental website 4.11.8 The Council also noted the directory; collaboration between completion of the project to Local Authority Environmental develop a joint EHS and EPA Education officers in the South database for recording and their equivalents in the environmental information. North; and a draft staff exchange Access to the shared database is proposal to increase mutual via the aNSwer website. The understanding and enhance shared register of Environmental prospects for greater co-operation. Data Sources (EDS) provides a web-based search facility which delivers information about the existence and availability of environmental data within the island of Ireland. The database 48 annual report 2002
HEALTH SECTOR area of Emergency Planning. The NSMC was informed that 4.12.1 The aspects of North/South a programme of cross-border co-operation in Health that were emergency planning training agreed for initial consideration courses, covering the medical by the North/South Ministerial response to a major incident, was Council were Accident and already in place. Ministers heard Emergency Services, Planning that tenders had been invited for for Major Emergencies, High the undertaking of a feasibility Technology Equipment, Cancer study and report on the costs Research and Health Promotion. and benefits associated with the introduction of an all-island 4.12.2 The Council met twice in the Helicopter Emergency Medical Health Sector in 2002. These Service, as endorsed by the NSMC meetings took place on 27 at its meeting on 16 November February and on 28 June. 2001. Ministers were subsequently advised that consultants had been 4.12.3 The Council heard progress on appointed to undertake the study. the development of co-operation in Accident and Emergency 4.12.5 Detailed recommendations have Services. It endorsed the been developed in relation to continuing cross-border co- the practical issues surrounding operation in hospital services joint responses to Road Traffic overseen by the North/South Accidents (RTAs) in Border areas. Regional Hospital Services Group The Council noted that, as a (NSRHSG), which was established first step to resolving a variety in 2000. Progress was also of issues with regard to reported on local cross-border communications, compatibility initiatives being developed by of equipment and coordinated CAWT (Co-operation and Working responses, a phased programme Together), which has been of familiarisation and joint exploring opportunities for training among Fire Brigades building greater cross-border located along the Border was collaboration between hospitals. being developed. The Council The Council noted co-operation also noted that further work on assessing the potential was planned in the area of fire for the development of organ prevention awareness campaigns, transplantation services on an joint training for RTA responses all-island basis, and on the and the further development regular exchange of information of an RTA response strategy. during the then current reviews Shared media campaigns on fire of Renal Services, North and prevention and fire safety were South. Progress was also reported being developed for schools in on a number of existing and new the border areas. cross-border initiatives including the provision of neo-natal 4.12.6 The Council reviewed progress on intensive care, the provision co-operation on High Technology of tertiary cancer care and the Equipment. The Council approved development of a cross-border a proposal to establish a consultant-led breast surgery North/South radiotherapy physics team in the North West. audit scheme. The Council also noted that a framework for 4.12.4 The Council endorsed progress to assessing the operation of date by Working Groups in the Positron Emission Tomography 49 (PET) technology on an all-island developing a collaborative health basis was being developed, promotion work programme, and that a major seminar including the plans for a major on emerging high technology cross-border conference on developments would take place physical activity to take place in September 2002. The Council in Newry in November 2002, noted that the potential for consideration of the potential all-island co-operation in for developing an all-island procurement and operational workplace health initiative, and training in essential support the proposed appointment of services in the acute sector Programme Managers, North and was being researched. South, to take this work forward.
4.12.7 In relation to Cancer Research, the Council reviewed on-going co-operation within the Tripartite Agreement (which had resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a Cancer Consortium between the National Cancer Institute of the USA and the Health Departments, North and South). The Council was informed that regular meetings had been held to standardise data collection between registries to facilitate projects throughout the island. Stimulated by the Cancer Consortium, consideration had been given to the most appropriate model for the development of a clinical trials infrastructure throughout the island. The Council noted the on-going co-operation within the Memorandum of Understanding and in particular the work being carried out by the joint research registries group in setting out priorities for collaborative research. The Council also noted the announcement of significant funding for cancer therapy research and the developments to date in co-ordinating all-island clinical trial activity.
4.12.8 The Council noted progress to date in a range of Health Promotion initiatives, including an evaluation of the folic acid campaign, anti-smoking initiatives, and nutrition. The Council also noted progress in 50 annual report 2002
TRANSPORT SECTOR developing a common basis for such reporting methods. 4.13.1 The aspects for co-operation The Council encouraged relevant in Transport that were agreed agencies to investigate the for initial consideration by the similarities and differences in North/South Ministerial Council the characteristics of collisions are strategic planning and road occurring in certain border areas. and rail safety. While co-operation The Council was also briefed would primarily arise in respect of on the arrangements for the road and rail planning, it would exchange of road safety take account of issues arising in information. the port and airport sectors. 4.13.7 On Penalty Points/Enforcement 4.13.2 The NSMC met once in the Issues, the Council noted the Transport Sector in 2002. This position with regard to penalty meeting took place on 17 April. points in the South and the existing penalty points system 4.13.3 The meeting dealt with Road in Northern Ireland. The Council Safety issues. It was not possible noted the position with regard to arrange a meeting in respect to the European Convention of other areas agreed for on Driving Disqualifications. The co-operation in the Transport Council also noted the potential Sector, as the relevant Northern that exists to provide for the Ireland Minister was not available. pursuit of the payment of traffic fines on a cross border basis in 4.13.4 In relation to Road Safety the context of the potential Education Initiatives, the Council adoption of the Agreement on noted and endorsed the existing Co-Operation between Member levels of activity, North and States of the European Union South, and confirmed its in Proceedings for Road continued commitment to Traffic Offences. co-operation in the area of road safety education. The Council also approved a proposal to hold a North/South Joint Road Safety Conference and to consider holding an annual conference of this nature to allow for the development of a network of road safety professionals.
4.13.5 On Joint Road Safety Campaigns the Council noted progress on the proposal for a new joint campaign on the subject of pedestrian safety and approved the proposed further development of this campaign.
4.13.6 The Council noted the current Road Safety Reporting arrangements, North and South, and the limitations in terms of 51 52 CHAPTER 5
THE JOINT SECRETARIAT
53 BACKGROUND • arranging the schedule of Council meetings in different formats; 5.1 Strand Two of the Agreement • securing prior political/Ministerial specified that the North/South agreement to agendas for Ministerial Council was to be meetings of the Council; supported by a standing Joint Secretariat, staffed by members of • preparing or commissioning the Northern Ireland Civil Service papers for meetings of the and the Irish Civil Service. The Council, including in relation Southern side of the Joint to its work programme; Secretariat operates under the • drafting joint communiqués and aegis of the Department of records of decisions of the Council; Foreign Affairs, while the Northern side operates under the • communicating decisions of the aegis of the Office of the First Council and monitoring their Minister and Deputy First Minister. implementation; • drafting an annual report on STAFFING the proceedings of the Council; 5.2 The Memorandum of • acting as a channel of Understanding on Procedure communication with agreed by the Council at the Implementation Bodies and Inaugural Plenary meeting in facilitating their development; Armagh on 13 December, 1999 • liaising, where appropriate set out the arrangements for, through the designated and the functions of, the Joint Department or Office in either Secretariat of the Council. Under jurisdiction with the Secretariat of the terms of the Memorandum, the British-Irish Intergovernmental it was agreed that the Joint Conference, with the Secretariat Secretariat would be located of the British-Irish Council and in Armagh headed by Joint with the North/South joint Secretaries, one appointed by parliamentary forum and each Administration. Each side independent consultative was also required to nominate forum when established; a Deputy Joint Secretary and other administrative and clerical • carrying out such other tasks as support staff. Officials from both the Council may direct. sides of the Secretariat work alongside one another in shared FUNDING office accommodation in Armagh. Dick Mackenzie served as the 5.4 The costs of meetings of the Northern Joint Secretary until North/South Ministerial Council April and was succeeded in June are borne by the host administration, by Dr Peter Smyth. Tim O’Connor with travel and subsistence costs is the Southern Joint Secretary, for Ministers and officials being and he has been in the post since borne by their administrations - December 1999. The Deputy see Annex 3. Joint Secretaries during 2002 were Helen Browne (South) 5.5 Staff costs associated with the who was replaced by Paddy Joint Secretariat are met by their Fay from April 2002, and Pat parent administrations. All other Donaghy (North). costs associated with the Joint Secretariat or the Council are FUNCTIONS divided equally between the two administrations (See Annex 3). 5.3 Under the terms of the Memorandum, the functions of the Joint Secretariat include: 54 ANNEX 1
ATTENDANCE AT PLENARY MEETING
55 NORTH/SOUTH MINISTERIAL COUNCIL MEETING IN PLENARY FORMAT
Friday 28 June 2002, Armagh City Hotel
List of Northern Ireland Ministers List of Southern Ministers
Rt Hon David Trimble MP MLA Mr. Bertie Ahern TD (First Minister) (Taoiseach)
Mr. Mark Durkan MLA Mr. Joe Walsh TD (Deputy First Minister) (Minister for Agriculture & Food) Mr. Charlie McCreevy TD Ms. Bairbre de Brún MLA (Minister for Finance) (Minister of Health, Social Services & Public Safety) Mr. Brian Cowen TD (Minister for Foreign Affairs) Dr. Seán Farren MLA Mr. Noel Dempsey TD (Minister of Finance & Personnel) (Minister for Education & Science) Mrs. Carmel Hanna MLA Mr. Dermot Ahern TD (Minister of Employment & Learning) (Minister for Communications, Marine & Natural Resources) Mr. Martin McGuinness MP MLA Mr. John O’Donoghue TD (Minister of Education) (Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism) Mr. Dermot Nesbitt MLA Mr. Micheál Martin TD (Minister of Environment) (Minister for Health & Children)
Mrs. Bríd Rodgers MLA Mr. Seamus Brennan TD (Minister of Agriculture & (Minister for Transport) Rural Development) Mr. Michael McDowell TD (Minister for Justice, Equality & Law Reform) Mr. Martin Cullen TD (Minister for the Environment & Local Government) Mr. Éamon Ó Cuív TD (Minister for Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs) Ms. Mary Coughlan TD (Minister for Social & Family Affairs)
56 ANNEX 2
ATTENDANCE AT SECTORAL MEETINGS
57 TD, rprise, Trade rprise, and Trade Harney, TD, Harney, Tánaiste and 2002 arine and Natural Resources ourism, Sport ourism, and Recreation Agriculture, Agriculture, Food and Rural Development r of Dr James McDaid, TD, Minister for inister inister of Mr Joe TD, Walsh, Minister for Minister of TD, Mr Minister Frank for Fahey, the Agriculture Agriculture and Rural Development (Chair) M Agriculture Agriculture and Rural Development (Chair) Mr MLA, Sam Foster, Minister of Environment Ms Bairbre de Brún, MLA, Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety of Employment and Learning Mr Dermot Nesbitt, MLA, Minister in OFMDFM Finance and (Chair)Personnel Mr Dermot Nesbitt, MLA, Minister of Environment Minister for Finance Mrs Mrs Carmel Hanna, MLA, Minister Employment (Chair) Co Fermanagh Ballymena Dr Seán MLA, Farren, Minister of Mr Charlie McCreevy, Co Fermanagh Enterprise, and Trade Investment (Chair) T ATTENDANCE AT NORTH AT ATTENDANCE SOUTH MINISTERIAL COUNCIL SECTORAL MEETINGS ade and Business Limerick Sir Reg MLA, Empey, Minister of Ms Mary Development of Enterprise, and Trade Investment Minister for Ente Special EU Programmes Date Sector VenueAdministration Northern Ireland Irish Government Wednesday 23 January Tr Friday 1 February FCILC Co Killeavy, Armagh Mrs Bríd MLA, Rodgers, Friday 25 January Agriculture Killadeas, Wednesday 20 February Mrs Bríd MLA, Rodgers, M Friday 22 February Tourism Killadeas, Sir Reg MLA, Empey, Ministe 58 annual report 2002 Chair) l Dempsey, l TD, Dempsey, Minister for the icheál Martin, TD, Minister for oel Dempsey, oel TD, Dempsey, Minister for the Frank Fahey, TD, Minister Frank for Fahey, the Dr Michael Woods,TD, Minister for Health and Children (Chair) Environment Environment and Local (Chair) Government Environment Environment and Local (Chair) Government of Mr Joe TD, Walsh, Minister for Minister Minister of Education (Chair)Mr Dermot Nesbitt, MLA, Minister of Environment Education and Science Health, Social Services and Public Safety Agriculture and Rural Development Marine and Natural Resources ( Mr James Leslie, MLA, Minister in OFMDFM Dr Tom Moffatt, TD, Minister of State, Department of Health and Children Mr James Leslie, MLA, Minister in OFMDFM Agriculture Agriculture and Rural DevelopmentMr James Leslie, MLA, Minister in OFMDFM Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Chair) Minister Minister of the Environment Mr Denis Haughey, Mr MLA, Denis Haughey, Minister in OFMDFM Minister of the Environment Mr Denis Haughey, Mr MLA, Denis Haughey, Minister in OFMDFM ood Safety/Health Dublin Ms Bairbre de Brún, MLA, Minister of Mr M Date Sector VenueAdministration Northern Ireland Irish Government Thursday 11 April Thursday 11 Education Armagh Mr Martin MLA, McGuinness, MP, Monday 15 April FCILC Dublin Mrs Bríd MLA, Rodgers, Minister of Mr Wednesday 27 February F Monday 15 April Agriculture Dublin Mrs BrÌd MLA, Rodgers, Minister Wednesday 17 April Environment Dublin Mr Dermot Nesbitt, MLA, Mr N Wednesday 17 April Transport Dublin Mr Dermot Nesbitt, MLA, Mr Noe 59 acht Affairs acht ildren ildren inister inister of State, Ó TD, Cuív, Minister for amon Ó TD, Cuív, Minister for 2002 ster for Enterprise, Trade Agriculture Agriculture and Food Minister Mr Micheál Martin, TD, inister inister of Ms Mary TD, Harney, Tánaiste and Minister of Mr Joe TD, Walsh, Minister for Finance and (Chair)Personnel Sir Reg MLA, Empey, Minister of Enterprise, and Trade Investment Department of Finance of Health, Social Services and Public Minister for Health and Ch Safety (Chair) Mr James Leslie, MLA, Minister in OFMDFM Mrs Mrs Carmel Hanna, MLA, Minister of Employment and Learning and Employment Agriculture Agriculture and Rural Development (Chair) Minister in OFMDFM Rural and Community, Gaeltacht Affairs Mr James Leslie, MLA, Mr Eamon Ó TD, Cuív, Minister for Enterprise, Trade Enterprise, and Trade Investment (Chair) Mini Mrs Mrs Carmel Hanna, MLA, Minister of Employment and Learning Health, Social Services and Public Safety Ms Bairbre de Brún, MLA, Minister of Affairs (Chair) Minister Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure Rural and Community, Gaelt Minister Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure Rural and Community, Gaelt Ballycastle Dr Seán MLA, Farren, Minister of Mr Tom TD, Parlon, M ATTENDANCE AT NORTH AT ATTENDANCE SOUTH MINISTERIAL COUNCIL SECTORAL MEETINGS Special EU Programmes Development Date Sector VenueAdministration Northern Ireland Irish Government Friday 28 June Health/ Food Safety Armagh Ms Bairbre de Brún, MLA, Friday 27 September AgricultureWednesday 9 October Downpatrick Mrs Bríd MLA, Rodgers, Wednesday 26 June and Trade Business Belfast Sir Reg MLA, Empey, M Wednesday 26 June Waterways Belfast Mr Michael MLA,McGimpsey, Mr E Friday 14 June Language Dublin Mr Michael MLA, McGimpsey, Mr Eamon 60 ANNEX 3
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
61 FINANCIAL INFORMATION 1 JANUARY 2002 - 31 DECEMBER 2002
Payments and Budget (North & South) Total payments for the financial period 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2002 amounted to £1,525,790/ € 2,426,900 and a breakdown of the main expenditure areas is set out below.
NSMC Expenditure - 1 January 2002 - 31 December 2002
Item Stg£ Euro
Salaries 926,317 1,473,380
Administration 462,133 735,065
NSMC Meetings 79,091 125,800
Consultancy 38,189 60,745
Capital Expenditure 20,060 31,910
TOTAL £1,525,790 € 2,426,900
62 ANNEX 4
NORTH/SOUTH BODIES CONTACT DETAILS
63 NORTH/SOUTH BODIES CONTACT DETAILS WATERWAYS IRELAND Block B, 4th Floor Abbey Court Headquarters: Lower Abbey Street 20 Darling Street Dublin 1 Enniskillen Tel: (01) 817 1317 Co Fermanagh Fax: (01) 4480699 BT74 7EW Tel: (028) 6632 3004 INTERTRADEIRELAND Fax: (028) 66346237 The Trade and Business Email: [email protected] Website: www.waterwaysireland.org Development Body
Northern Region: InterTradeIreland Somerview House The Old Gasworks Business Park Old Dublin Road Kilmorey Street Carrick on Shannon Newry Co Down Co Leitrim BT34 2DE Tel: (078) 50787 Tel: (028) 3083 4100 Fax: (078) 22866 Fax: (028) 3083 4155 E-mail: [email protected] Western Region: Website: www.intertradeireland.com Market Square Scarriff SPECIAL EU Co Clare PROGRAMMES BODY Tel: (061) 922033 Fax: (061) 922036 EU House 6 Cromac Place Eastern Region: Belfast Floor 2, Block C BT7 2JB Ashtowngate Navan Road Tel: (028) 9026 6660 Dublin 15 Fax: (028) 9026 6692 E-mail: [email protected] Tel: (01) 8680148 Website: www.seupb.org Fax: (01) 8383647 EU House FOOD SAFETY 13 Kevlin Road PROMOTION BOARD Omagh Co Tyrone 7 Eastgate Avenue BT78 1LB Eastgate Tel: (028) 8225 5750 Little Island Fax: (028) 8224 8427 Cork E-mail: [email protected] Tel: (021) 230 4100 Fax: (021) 230 4111 EU House E-mail: [email protected] Castle Meadow Court Website: www.safefoodonline.com Monaghan Tel: (047) 77003 Fax: (047) 71258 E-mail: [email protected] 64 annual report 2002
THE NORTH/SOUTH TOURISM IRELAND LTD LANGUAGE BODY Tourism Ireland Ltd FORAS NA GAEILGE 5th Floor Bishop’s Square Foras na Gaeilge Redmond’s Hill 7 Cearnóg Mhuirfean Dublin 2 Baile Átha Cliath 2 Tel: (01) 476 3400 Tel: (01) 639 8400 Fax: (01) 476 3666 Fax: (01) 639 8401 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.tourismireland.com Website: www.forasnagaeilge.ie THA BOORD O ULSTÉR-SCOTCH
Tha Boord o Ulstér-Scotch Franklin House 10-12 Brunswick Street Belfast BT2 7GE Tel: (028) 9023 1113 Fax: (028) 9023 1898 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.ulsterscotsagency.com FOYLE, CARLINGFORD AND IRISH LIGHTS COMMISSION
Loughs Agency: 22 Victoria Road Waterside Derry/Londonderry BT47 2AB Tel: (028) 7134 2100 Fax: (028) 7134 2720 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.loughs-agency.org
Teach Eolais, Old Quay Lane Carlingford Co Louth Tel: (042) 9383888 Fax: (042) 9383888 E-mail: [email protected]
65 66 ANNEX 5
NORTH/SOUTH BODIES BOARD MEMBERS
67 FOOD AND SAFETY PROMOTION BOARD ADVISORY BOARD
To 12 December 2002 From 13 December 2002 Councillor Bertie Kerr Councillor Bertie Kerr (Chairperson) (Chairperson) Professor Mike Gibney Professor Charlie Daly (Vice Chairperson) (Vice Chairperson) Mr Don Anderson Mr Don Anderson Mr Leslie Craig Mr Leslie Craig Ms Carmel Foley Ms Carmel Foley Mr Ronan Garvey Professor Patrick Fottrell Professor Cecily Kelleher Mr Odran Flynn Mr Damien O’Dwyer Mr Patrick McColgan Dr Danny O’Hare Ms Catherine Murphy Ms Anne Speed Mr Damien O’Dwyer Professor Seán Strain Ms Anne Speed Mr Michael John Walker Professor Seán Strain
THE TRADE AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BODY BOARD MEMBERS
To 12 December 2002 From 13 December 2002 Dr Martin Naughton Dr Martin Naughton (Chairperson) (Chairperson) Dr Harold Ennis Mr Barry Fitzsimons (Vice Chairperson) (Vice Chairperson) The Duke of Abercorn Ms Mary Ainscough Ms Mary Ainscough Ms Mary Breslin Ms Mary Breslin Mr Trefor Campbell Mr Barry Fitzsimons Mr John Fitzgerald Ms Jackie Harrison Mr Jack Gilmour Mr Carl McCann Ms Jackie Harrison Mr Fergal McCormack Mr Carl McCann Dr Inez McCormack Mr Fergal McCormack Mr Kieran McGowan Dr Inez McCormack Mr Robbie Smyth Mr Robbie Smyth
68 annual report 2002
NORTH/SOUTH LANGUAGE BODY FORAS NA GAEILGE BOARD MEMBERS
To 12 December 2002 From 13 December 2002 Mrs Maighréad Uí Mháirtín Mrs Maighréad Uí Mháirtín (Chairperson of Foras na Gaeilge/ (Chairperson of Foras na Gaeilge/ Joint Chairperson of An Foras Teanga) Joint Chairperson of An Foras Teanga) Mr Liam Corey Mr Liam Corey Ms Anne Craig Ms Anne Craig Mr Gordon McCoy Mr Gordon McCoy Mr Aodán Mac Póilín Mr Aodán Mac Póilín Mr Gearóid Mac Siacais Mr Gearóid Mac Siacais Mr Patrick McGlone Mr Patrick McGlone Ms Treasa Ní Ailpín Ms Treasa Ní Ailpín Ms Jacqueline Ní Fhearghusa Ms Caitríona Ní Cheallaigh Ms Máiréad Nic Sheaghain Ms Máiréad Nic Sheaghain (appointed 15 April 2002) Mr Maolsheachlain Ó Caollaí Mr Maolsheachlain Ó Caollaí Mr Leachlainn Ó Catháin Mr Leachlainn Ó Catháin Mr Liam Ó Cuinneagáin Mr Pádraig Ó Duibhir Mr Pádraig Ó Duibhir Mr Gearóid Ó hEara Mr Gearóid Ó hEara Mr Diarmuid Ó Murchú Ms Bríd Uí Néill Ms Bríd Uí Néill
THA BOORD o ULSTÈR-SCOTCH BOARD MEMBERS
To 12 December 2002 From 13 December 2002 Lord Laird of Artigarvan Lord Laird of Artigarvan (Chairperson of Tha Boord o (Chairperson of Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch/Joint Chairperson Ulstèr-Scotch/Joint Chairperson of North/South Language Body) of North/South Language Body) Dr Pádraig de Bhál Dr Pádraig de Bhál Mr James Devenney Mr James Devenney Mr John Erskine Dr Linde Lunney Dr Linde Lunney Mr Éamon O’Domhnaill Mr John McIntyre Mr Alistair Simpson Mr Éamon O’Domhnaill Mr Robert Stoker Dr Philip Robinson Vacancy (resigned 22 July 2002) 69 THE FOYLE, CARLINGFORD AND IRISH LIGHTS COMMISSION BOARD MEMBERS
To 12 December 2002 From 13 December 2002 Mr Peter Savage Mr Peter Savage (Chairperson) (Chairperson) Lord Cooke of Islandreagh Lord Cooke of Islandreagh (Vice Chairperson) (Vice Chairperson) Mr Jack Allen Mr Jack Allen Mr Keith Anderson Mr Keith Anderson Mr Dick Blakiston-Houston Mr Dick Blakiston-Houston Mr Francis Feely Mr Francis Feely Dr Patrick J Griffin Dr Patrick J Griffin Ms Siobhan Logue Ms Siobhan Logue Mr Joseph Martin Ms Jacqui McConville Mr Arthur Morgan Mr Joseph Martin Ms Sheila Tyrrell Mr Tarlach O Crosain (resigned 20 Feb 2002) Mr Andrew Ward Mr Andrew Ward
TOURISM IRELAND LIMITED BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mr Andrew Coppel (Chairperson) Ms Ann Riordan (Vice-Chairperson) Mr Roy Bailie Mr Alan Clarke Mr Dennis Galway Mr Howard Hastings Mr Tony Kelly Mr Noel McGinley Mr Felix Mooney Mr John Power Mr Niall Reddy Mr Charles Sinnott
70 ANNEX 6
DEPARTMENTAL INFORMATION
71 DEPARTMENTAL INFORMATION
CENTRAL DEPARTMENTS INLAND WATERWAYS SECTOR Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure Parliament Buildings 3rd Floor Interpoint Stormont Estate 20-24 York Street Belfast Belfast BT4 3XX BT15 1AQ Tel: (028) 9052 1639 Tel: (028) 9025 8825 Fax: (028) 9052 1283 Fax: (028) 9025 8906 Website: www.northernireland.gov.uk E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.dcalni.gov.uk Executive Secretariat* Office of The First Minister Department of Community, Rural and Deputy First Minister and Gaeltacht Affairs Stormont Castle Dún Aimhirgin Belfast 43-49 Mespil Road BT43TT Dublin 4 Tel: (028) 9037 8033 Tel: (01) 647 3000 Fax: (028) 9037 8035 Fax: (01) 647 3051 Website: www.northernireland.gov.uk E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.pobail.ie Northern Ireland Division Department of the Taoiseach Government Buildings HEALTH AND FOOD Upper Merrion Street SAFETY SECTORS Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 662 4888 Department of Health, Social Fax: (01) 662 1972 Services and Public Safety Website: www.irlgov.ie/taoiseach Castle Buildings Stormont North/South Section Belfast Anglo/Irish Division BT4 3SJ Department of Foreign Affairs** Tel: (028) 9052 0500 80 St Stephen’s Green Fax: (028) 9052 3136 Dublin 2 E-Mail: [email protected] Tel: (01) 478 0822 Website: www.dhsspsni.gov.uk Fax: (01) 478 5949 Website: www.irlgov.ie/iveagh Department of Health and Children Hawkins House * Co-ordinating role in Northern Ireland Poolbeg Street ** Co-ordinating role on Southern side Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 635 4000 Fax: (01) 635 4001 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.doh.ie
72 annual report 2002
TRADE AND BUSINESS Department of Finance Government Buildings DEVELOPMENT SECTOR Upper Merrion Street Dublin 2 Department of Enterprise, Tel: (01) 676 7571 Trade and Investment Fax: (01) 678 9936 Netherleigh E-mail: [email protected] Massey Avenue Website: www.finance.gov.ie Belfast BT4 2JP LANGUAGE SECTOR Tel: (028) 9052 9900 Fax: (028) 9052 9273 E-Mail: [email protected] Department of Culture, Website: www.detini.gov.uk Arts & Leisure 3rd Floor Interpoint Department for Employment 20-24 York Street and Learning Belfast Adelaide House BT15 1AQ 39-49 Adelaide Street Tel: (028) 9025 8825 Belfast Fax: (028) 9025 8906 BT2 8FD E-Mail: [email protected] Tel: (028) 9025 7777 Website: www.dcalni.gov.uk Fax: (028) 9025 7778 E-Mail: [email protected] An Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Website: www.delni.gov.uk Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta Dún Aimhirgin Department of Enterprise, 43-49 Bóthar Mespil Trade and Employment Baile Atha Cliath 4 Kildare Street Tel: (01) 647 3000 Dublin 2 Fax: (01) 647 3051 Tel: (01) 631 2121 E-Mail: [email protected] Fax: (01) 631 2827 Website: www.pobail.ie E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.entemp.ie SPECIAL EU PROGRAMMES SECTOR
Department of Finance and Personnel Rathgael House Balloo Road Bangor BT19 7NA Tel: (028) 9127 9279 Fax: (028) 9185 8109 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.dfpni.gov.uk
73 FOYLE, CARLINGFORD Department of Transport Transport House AND IRISH LIGHTS 44 Kildare Street COMMISSION SECTOR Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 670 7444 Department of Agriculture Fax: (01) 670 9633 and Rural Development E-Mail: [email protected] Dundonald House Website: www.transport.ie Upper Newtownards Road Belfast AGRICULTURE SECTOR BT4 3SB Tel: (028) 9052 4999 Department of Agriculture Fax: (028) 9052 5015 and Rural Development E-Mail: [email protected] Dundonald House Website: www.dardni.gov.uk Upper Newtownards Road Belfast Department of Communications, BT4 3SB Marine and Natural Resources Tel: (028) 9052 4999 Leeson Lane Fax: (028) 9052 5003 Dublin 2 E-Mail: [email protected] Tel: (01) 678 2000 Website: www.dardni.gov.uk Fax: (01) 661 8214 E-Mail: [email protected] Department of Agriculture and Food Website: www.marine.gov.ie Agriculture House Kildare Street TRANSPORT SECTOR Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 607 2000 Department of the Environment Fax: (01) 661 6263 Clarence Court E-Mail: [email protected] 10 - 18 Adelaide Street Website: www.irlgov.ie/daff Belfast BT2 8GB EDUCATION SECTOR Tel: (028) 9054 0540 Fax: (028) 9054 1169 Department of Education E.mail: [email protected] Rathgael House Website: www.doeni.gov.uk Balloo Road Bangor Department for Regional Development BT19 7PR Clarence Court Tel: (028) 9127 9279 10-18 Adelaide Street Fax: (028) 9127 9100 Belfast E-Mail: [email protected] BT2 8GB Website: www.deni.gov.uk Tel: (028) 9054 0540 Fax: (028) 9052 0064 Department of Education E-Mail: [email protected] and Science Website:www.drdni.gov.uk Marlborough Street Dublin 1 Tel: (01) 873 4700 Fax: (01) 878 7932 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.education.ie 74 ENVIRONMENT SECTOR
Department of the Environment Clarence Court 10-18 Adelaide Street Belfast BT2 8GB Tel: (028) 9054 0540 Fax: (028) 9054 1169 E.mail: [email protected] Website: www.doeni.gov.uk
Department of the Environment and Local Government Custom House Dublin 1 Tel: (01) 888 2000 Fax: (01) 888 2888 E.mail: [email protected] Website: www.environ.ie TOURISM SECTOR
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment Netherleigh Massey Avenue Belfast BT4 2JP Tel: (028) 9052 9900 Fax: (028) 9052 9550 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.detini.gov.uk
Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism Kildare Street Dublin 2 Tel: (01) 631 3800 Fax: (01) 661 1201 E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.irlgov.ie/tourism-sport
75 North/South Ministerial Council Joint Secretariat 39 Abbey Street Armagh BT61 7EB Tel: North 028 3751 8068 South 048 3751 1470 Fax: North 028 3751 1406 South 048 3751 1874 E-mail: North [email protected] South [email protected] Website: www.northsouthministerialcouncil.org
76