Written Answers

14 December 2017 Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].

Question No. 1 answered orally.

14/12/2017WRA00300Public Private Partnerships

14/12/2017WRA004002. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to a report from the IMF (details supplied) that makes a range of recommendations regarding PPPs, including that the State begin using a cost benefit analysis of them. [53507/17]

14/12/2017WRA00500Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I should first explain that Public Private Partnerships are already subject to a strong public investment management methodology, which includes appraisal. The Deputy may be referring to a recommendation made as part of the recent IMF PIMA report, to the effect that appraisals should be published on a more systematic basis.

The National Development Finance Agency was established in 2003 under the National Development Finance Agency Act 2002. The role of the NDFA is to advise State Authorities on the optimum means of financing public investment projects in order to achieve value for money and to provide advice in relation to all aspects of financing, refinancing and insurance, including risk analysis, of public investment projects. All PPP projects involving the use of private finance must be referred to the NDFA. In addition, all projects valued at €20 million or above, whether traditional or PPP, must be referred to the NDFA for advice.

The Public Investment Management Assessment (PIMA) mission to Ireland was undertaken by the IMF in July this year. The final report was published on my Department’s website (www.per.gov.ie) on 10 November 2017.

The report and its recommendations are the work of an expert team from the IMF who were invited to assess our public investment institutions to evaluate the design and effectiveness of the institutions that shape decision-making at the three key stages of the public investment cycle:

- planning investment;

- allocating investment to the right sectors; and

- implementing investment.

The PIMA report concluded that, overall, Ireland manages its public infrastructure relatively well. It highlights both strengths and weaknesses and contains a number of recommen-

1 Questions - Written Answers dations to improve future performance in terms of the efficiency of public capital investment.

One of the recommendations in the PIMA report is for the publication of the results of cost- benefit analysis on Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects, and the criteria used to select them.

As the Deputy will be aware, PPPs are subjected to the same robust and rigorous project appraisal process as traditionally procured projects. In ensuring Departments obtain the best value-for-money from public capital investment PPPs, just as traditionally procured projects, are subject to the requirements contained in the Public Spending Code.

The Public Spending Code encompasses guidance on a variety of issues related to the management of expenditure at each stage of the expenditure lifecycle. This includes central guidance on the application of appraisal and evaluation methodologies including cost benefit analysis. This methodological guidance aims to enhance consistency across sectors through common approaches and the use of key technical parameter values needed for quantifying costs and conducting economic appraisals.

While there is already significant guidance and data published on PPPs I acknowledge that the publication of cost-benefit analysis on PPP projects would provide greater transparency in reporting on PPP projects. However, in assessing the implementation of the PIMA recommendation, it would be important to take into account the commercial sensitivity of specific data included in the appraisal of PPPs.

An inter-Departmental and Agency Group was established earlier this year to make recommendations on the future role of PPPs, in the context of the new 10 year capital plan. The group comprises relevant officials from the Departments and agencies with experience of procuring projects by PPP. As part of its work, the group is considering the recommendations made in the PIMA report that relate to PPPs, including the recommendation in relation to publication of CBAs for PPP projects, to inform future decision-making on these matters. I expect the Group’s deliberations to be completed alongside the finalisation of the new 10-year capital plan, which is currently being developed by my Department to support the implementation of the Ireland 2040 Plan detailing the new National Planning Framework.

Questions Nos. 3 to 7, inclusive, answered orally.

14/12/2017WRA00700Appointments to State Boards

14/12/2017WRA008008. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to improve the gender balance on each of the State boards under his remit. [53246/17]

14/12/2017WRA00900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Each Minis- ter is ultimately responsible for appointments to boards under their aegis and must have regard to the Guidelines on Appointments to State Boards. Relevant issues relating to the effective operation of each board, including those such as diversity, gender balance and mix of expertise and skill sets are for each Minister to consider.

As set out in the Guidelines, compliance with the Government Decision of 23 July 2014 on Gender Balance on State Boards is an essential requirement.

These requirements include:

- Each Department should prepare a plan to reaffirm and achieve the target of at least 40%

2 14 December 2017 for representation of each gender on State Boards within its remit during the lifetime of the present Government.

- Departments should maintain a particular focus on those Boards on which either women or men are currently significantly under-represented and should actively seek to appoint candidates of the under-represented gender from the PAS short list.

- Departments should in the case of Boards which have already achieved the 40% target seek to move towards 45% of each gender as a new target for gender equality.

Indications are that 48% of State boards have reached the target of a minimum of 40% female membership set by the Government and indeed that some 35% of boards have met the higher 45% target. This compares very favourably with the private sector, with a figure of somewhere around 13% female participation. The position on individual State boards is a matter for the relevant Minister.

Up to the end of September this year, over 500 appointments have been made under the new system. Some 30% of over 8,700 applications received for state board appointment came from women, who made up some 45% of the appointments made.

The Board of the Public Appointments Service (PAS) is the only State Board under the aegis of my Department. The Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act 2004, which established PAS, specifies that the chairperson and ordinary members of the Board shall be appointed by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in consultation with the Minister for Health, the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government and the Minis- ter for Justice and Equality.

The Act also specifies that in appointing persons as members of the Board the Minister shall ensure that:

- at least 2 of them have either or both civil service and other public service experience and knowledge which the Minister considers relevant, and

- at least 2 of them have expertise in human resource management, customer service and recruitment outside the public service which the Minister considers relevant.

Up until recently, five of the nine members (or 55%) were women, including the 3 positions recruited through the State Board process operated by PAS. However, two of these three positions are currently vacant but are in the process of being filled through the PAS process and the issue of gender balance will be considered along with other issues. There is also a third vacancy which is normally filled following a recommendation from the Minister for Justice and Equality.

Questions Nos. 9 to 14, inclusive, answered orally.

14/12/2017WRA01100Expenditure Reviews

14/12/2017WRA0120015. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the rolling selective spending review process which will take place in his Department between 2017 and 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53247/17]

14/12/2017WRA01300Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As part of my Estimates speech on Budget day last year I announced that a spending review would take place on a three-year rolling basis. 3 Questions - Written Answers The first cycle of the Spending Review in 2017, which culminated in the publication of over 20 analytical papers on Spending Review topics, was successfully completed in October following the publication of Budget 2018. This was the first cycle of a series of selective reviews of the current expenditure base that will remain in place for a 3-year period, thereby informing the preparation of the next two Budgets.

In advance of Budget 2019, the Spending Review in 2018 will examine the next phase of expenditure topics. It is planned that the remaining phase of current expenditure topics will be covered the following year. The primary objective of the Spending Review in 2018 is to build on the work completed in 2017 and continue to reinforce the use of data, evidence and analysis to support decision-making in the Estimates process.

As the Deputy will be aware, there are a number of significant risks - both internal and external - to the sustainability of our current growth and fiscal performance. These require that Government secure the continuation of sound public finances to underpin sustainable economic growth. The experience from recent years is that this is best achieved by allocating scarce resources in the most efficient and effective way. The Spending Review is a key tool that can enable the achievement of this goal.

Preparations for the second cycle of spending review are underway and the process will formally begin in January 2018.

14/12/2017WRA01400Public Sector Pay

14/12/2017WRA0150016. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to address pay inequality within the public sector. [53243/17]

14/12/2017WRA01600Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The issue of addressing the difference in incremental salary scales between those public servants, who entered public service employment since 2011 and those who entered before that date was addressed with the relevant union interests under the provisions of the Haddington Road Agree- ment (HRA).

From 1 November 2013 pre and post-2011 pay scales were merged into a single consolidated scale applicable to each grade. Generally, the third point of 1 November 2013 pay scale is equivalent to the first point of the pre 2011 scale. Certain allowances, previously available to new entrants, were also restored under the flexibility provided for by the Lansdowne Road Agreement.

In general, there are no new entrant scales anymore, there are new scales that start at a lower point i.e. the two initial points on the merged scales.

The Deputy will also be aware that the benefits of the new Public Service Stability Agree- ment 2018-2020, now ratified by the Public Services Committee of the ICTU, are progressively weighted in favour of new entrants.

The PSSA also recognises the issues of concern in relation to the salaries of new entrants and commits all parties to an examination of these matters within 12 months of the commencement of the Agreement. The first, exploratory meeting, with the full complement of Trade Unions and staff associations, took place on 12 October. This meeting, based on the contributions of all parties, agreed an outline process of oversight and data gathering. This process will be overseen by the Oversight Body for the PSSA. Further engagement will be undertaken over the coming months with those parties that have signed up to the Agreement. 4 14 December 2017 An amendment to the Public Service Pay and Pensions Bill 2017 was agreed during Com- mittee Stage on Tuesday 5 December. This allows for a report to be prepared and laid before the Oireachtas on the cost of and a plan in dealing with pay equalisation for new entrants to the public service, within three months of the passing of the Act.

Question No. 17 answered orally.

Question No. 18 answered with Question No. 5.

14/12/2017WRA01900Flood Relief Schemes Funding

14/12/2017WRA0200019. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if funding for the flood relief works that are needed in Mountmellick and Portarlington, County Laois will be committed to once a final plan is presented by Laois County Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53248/17]

14/12/2017WRA0205025. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount available over the next two years for flood relief works; if he will assign a sufficient amount for capital works in the Mountmellick and Portarlington areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53249/17]

14/12/2017WRA02100Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 25 together.

The core strategy for addressing areas at potentially significant risk from flooding is the -Of fice of Public Works (OPW) Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme. The Programme, which is being undertaken by engineering consultants on behalf of the OPW working in partnership with the local authorities, involves the production of predictive flood mapping for each location, the development of preliminary flood risk management options and the production of Flood Risk Management Plans.

The Programme is focussing on 300 Areas for Further Assessment (AFAs) including 90 coastal areas, mainly in urban locations nationwide, identified as being at potentially significant risk of flooding.

The CFRAM programme has examined flood risk in the towns of Mountmellick and Por- tarlington and has identified proposed feasible measures to protect properties assessed as being at risk. This entails the construction of flood defences, consisting of embankments and walls. The OPW has consulted with communities in Mountmellick and Portarlington to ensure their knowledge, views and concerns in relation to flood risk are taken on board. There was an extensive response to the public consultation on the draft Flood Plans and constructive and wide- ranging observations were provided.

The Government has agreed an increased allocation of funding for flood relief activities totalling €430m in its Capital Investment Plan for the period 2016-2021 with the annual budget allocation rising from €45m to €100m by 2021. The capital allocation included in the Plan for flood risk management in 2018 is €70m and in 2019 is €80m.

The final Plans are currently undergoing an independent review of the environmental assessments by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. I would hope early in 2018, to seek the approval from the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform for the Flood Risk Management Plans developed under the CFRAM process.

5 Questions - Written Answers Thereafter, I would hope to announce the proposed structural measures contained within those Plans that will be taken, through a prioritised approach over the coming years, to detailed design to protect those communities at assessed risk. This detailed design will include further environmental assessments, public consultation and cost reviews to ensure the project level measures are sustainable and cost beneficial. The OPW will work closely with Local Au- thorities to progress the effective implementation of these projects and, in certain exceptional circumstances, such as in Mountmellick, will engage proactively with the Local Authority in considering an appropriate response to address urgently the flooding in the town. In this regard I understand that the Chief Executive of Laois County Council has written to the OPW in relation to the recent flooding in Mountmellick and a meeting is to be arranged shortly to discuss the matter.

Questions Nos. 20 and 21 answered orally.

14/12/2017WRA02250Coastal Protection

14/12/2017WRA0230022. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to develop a coordinated national coastal plan to prioritise the most at risk inhabited and to develop a unified approach to the management of coastal erosion nationwide. [53063/17]

14/12/2017WRA02400Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The primary objective of Government policy on coastal protection is to ensure that in areas identified as being at greatest risk of damage or loss of economic assets through coastal erosion or flooding, appropriate and sustainable measures are identified by Local Au- thorities to protect those assets. Where such measures are economically justified on cost benefit grounds and compatible with all required environmental and other statutory requirements, they are implemented subject to the availability of resources.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) has undertaken a national assessment of coastal erosion (including erosion rates) under the Irish Coastal Protection Strategy Study (ICPSS) and the results of this study have been published on the OPW website. The relevant reports and associated predictive erosion hazard mapping (to 2050) may be viewed at www.opw.ie .

This Study has surveyed and assessed the coastal erosion risk along the entire national coastline and this information is available to all Local Authorities to enable them to develop appropriate plans and strategies for the sustainable management of the coastline in their counties including the identification, prioritisation and, subject to the availability of resources, the implementation of coastal protection works both of a structural and non-structural nature.

The Local Authorities may carry out coastal protection works using their own resources. If necessary, they may also put forward proposals to the relevant central Government Departments for funding of appropriate measures depending on the infrastructure or assets under threat.

Given an intervention within a coastal area may cause problems further along the coast, any proposed intervention measures by a Local Authority are best developed in conjunction with a formal coastal erosion risk management study which has carefully investigated the problem and explored the full range of management options.

The OPW operates the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, under which applications for funding from local authorities are considered for measures costing up to €750,000 in each instance. Funding for coastal erosion risk management studies may also be applied for under this scheme. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for projects which meet the eligibility criteria including a requirement that the proposed measures are cost 6 14 December 2017 beneficial.

The OPW has published guidelines for coastal erosion risk management measures and funding applications under the Minor Works Scheme, available on the OPW website www.opw.ie.

14/12/2017WRA02500Public Relations Contracts Expenditure

14/12/2017WRA0260023. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount spent by Department and public body and the total cost of public relations services in the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53431/17]

14/12/2017WRA02700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Dep- uty will be aware, my Department was established in 2011. Therefore, this reply covers the period since then.

The following tables reflect the amount spent by the Department and the bodies under its aegis on public relations services in the period in question:

Name of Service Amount Spent € Purpose Body Provider Mindshare Media €145,441.83 Communications Office of the Gov- Ireland Ltd.(2017) Campaign – Promot- ernment Chief ing awareness and Information Officer benefits of the Public (DPER) Services Card/My- GovID Inventive Marketing €59,998.17 Communications Office of the Gov- Ltd T/A KICK Com- Campaign – Promot- ernment Chief munications (2017) ing awareness and Information Officer benefits of the Public (DPER) Services Card/My- GovID

Name of Service Amount Spent € Purpose Body Provider Q4PR (2011- €26,900.94 Promotion of Na- IPA 2017) tional Conference, conferences, semi- nars, Administration Yearbook and Diary

Name of Service Pro- Amount Spent € Purpose Body vider Murrays Consultants €26,973.61 Registration of Lob- Office of the Om- (2015 – 2016) bying budsman Chemistry (2015) €2,460.00 Registration of Lob- Office of the Om- bying budsman

7 Questions - Written Answers Name of Service Amount Spent Purpose Body Provider Wilson Hartnell Pub- €21,290.00 To assist in market- Public Appointments lic Relations (2012 ing and public rela- Service – 2014) tions related functions Q4 Public Rela- €47,970 To assist in market- Public Appointments tions(2017) ing and public rela- Service tions functions

Name of Service Amount Spent Purpose Body Provider Bowe Communica- €14,145.00 PR work relating to Office of Public tions(2017) Castletown House Works and Demesne Q4PR Consul- €2,798.25 National Catchment Office of Public tants(2017) Flood Risk Assess- Works ment and Manage- ment Q4PR Consul- €35,054.88 National Catchment Office of Public tants(2014 – 2015) Flood Risk Assess- Works ment and Manage- ment Presence Communi- €21,054.16 PR work relating to Office of Public cations(2014 – 2016) Castletown House Works and Demesne, Casino Marino and Dublin Castle Information in relation to other Government Departments and bodies under their aegis should be the subject of separate Parliamentary Questions to the relevant Ministers.

14/12/2017WRA02800Coastal Erosion

14/12/2017WRA0290024. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the steps being taken to prevent further damage to dunes at Portrane, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53466/17]

14/12/2017WRA03000Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The problem of coastal erosion at Portrane is being addressed by Fingal Coun- ty Council. The Council applied for and was approved funding of €57,800 in 2012 under the Office of Public Works’ Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme to carry out a Coastal Erosion Risk Management Study of Portrane to Rush. This study was completed and the Council has been working on the basis of its findings to identify an environmentally and economically viable solution to strengthen and rehabilitate the dune system at this location.

I am advised that the Council has established a local community liaison group and is working with it on the issue.

The Office of Public Works is not currently in receipt of an application from the Council

8 14 December 2017 under the Minor Works Scheme for works at Portrane. The OPW will liaise with the Council as appropriate in this regard should an application be received.

Question No. 25 answered with Question No. 19.

14/12/2017WRA03200Public Sector Staff Recruitment

14/12/2017WRA0330026. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way in which the existing public sector pay agreements are helping to address staff shortages in front-line public services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50835/17]

14/12/2017WRA03400Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Since Q4 2013 Public Service numbers have increased by nearly 30,000. Over 20,000 of those were recruited in the Health and Education sectors. Adjusting for transfers of functions between Departments, both the Department of Health and the Department of Education and Skills have higher staffing levels now than in 2008.

Furthermore there has been a shift from administrative staff to front-line service delivery. For example in Health since 2008 there has been a reduction of approx 5,000 management, admin and general support staff numbers and an equivalent increase in doctors, dentists, health and social care professionals. In education there are over 8,000 more teachers than 2008.

This level of recruitment has largely been possible because of the certainty provided to fiscal planning by the Lansdowne Road Agreement and its successor the Public Service Stability Agreement. By phasing the unwinding of the emergency legislation over a number of years with ring-fenced allocations, sufficient resources were available to make progress on other societal priorities such as providing significant additional front-line staff in our schools and hospitals.

Looking forward the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 provides for the Public Service Pay Commission to engage in a comprehensive examination of certain specialist areas within the public service where recruitment and retention issues may be arising.

Where a difficulty is identified, the Commission will examine the full range of causal factors including matters such as the totality of the current remuneration package, planned future pay adjustments, alleviations from current rates of the PRD as provided for in the PSSA and FEMPI pay unwinding post 2020.

14/12/2017WRA03500Road Projects Status

14/12/2017WRA0360027. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the commitment in respect of the completion of the A5 motorway to Derry and Let- terkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53263/17]

14/12/2017WRA03700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I refer to the reply by the Taoiseach to PQ 51982 on 5 December last.

Under the Fresh Start Agreement concluded in 2015 between the British and Irish Govern- ments and the main political parties in the North, the Irish Government reaffirmed its existing commitment to providing funding of £50 million for the A5 Western Transport Corridor serving the North West and also committed an additional £25m to the project.

9 Questions - Written Answers A Senior Officials Group was subsequently established to monitor progress in taking forward the range of infrastructure commitments contained in Fresh Start including the A5 West- ern Transport Corridor. This group is co-chaired by senior officials from the Department of Infrastructure Northern Ireland and the Department of the Taoiseach. This group meets on a regular basis throughout the year; it has met 7 times in total with its last meeting on 7 November 2017.

On 28 November 2017, the Department of Infrastructure Northern Ireland announced the decision to proceed with the A5 Western Transport Corridor scheme and it is currently finalising preparations to enable work to start in 2018.

As part of the work of the Senior Officials Group, the Department of the Taoiseach has been in contact at official level with key stakeholders in the A5 project including the Department of Infrastructure Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council and other UK Gov- ernment Officials. These contacts have referenced phase 1 of the project in recent weeks once it became clear that a start date was envisaged in 2018. A final decision in respect of the A5 alignment is a matter for the Northern Ireland authorities.

14/12/2017WRA03800Flood Prevention Measures

14/12/2017WRA0390028. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when flood defence construction works will advance in the upper Lee for areas (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53474/17]

14/12/2017WRA04000Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The core strategy for addressing areas at potentially significant risk from flooding is the Office of Public Works (OPW) Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme. The Programme, which is being undertaken by engineering consultants on behalf of the OPW working in partnership with the local authorities, involves the production of predictive flood mapping for each location, the development of preliminary flood risk management options and the production of Flood Risk Management Plans.

The proposed feasible measures, both structural and non-structural, identified for AFAs are outlined in the final Flood Risk Management Plans that propose feasible flood relief works for each of Inchigeelagh and Ballingeary including flood walls and embankments . A Ballingeary Hydrometric Monitoring Regime is also proposed, to include the installation of hydrometric gauges on the Bunsheelin River and River Lee. Subject to Ministerial approval, where a measure has been proposed in the Plans, their progression to detailed design, further environmental assessments, public consultation and cost review.

The final Plans are currently undergoing an independent review of the strategic level environmental assessments by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Once this independent review of all Plans is completed and observations addressed, I would hope by early 2018, to seek the approval from the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform for the 29 Flood Risk Management Plans developed under the CFRAM process.

Thereafter, I would hope to announce the proposed structural measures contained within those Plans that will be taken, through a prioritised approach over the coming years, to detailed design to protect those communities at assessed risk. 10 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRA04100Civil Service Renewal Plan

14/12/2017WRA0420029. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the proposed outcomes under the third progress report on the implementation of the Civil Ser- vice renewal plan and, in particular, on the way in which the 25 specific actions in four key areas will improve the performance of Departments of State which have been the subject of recent public criticism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53253/17]

14/12/2017WRA04300Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Civil Service Renewal Plan was published on 30 October 2014. The plan forms part of the Govern- ment’s wider public service reform programme. The Plan sets out a vision and 3 year action plan to achieve it. It outlines 25 practical actions that will create a more unified, professional, responsive, open and accountable Civil Service that can provide a world-class service to the State and the people of Ireland. The actions included in the Plan build on the existing strengths of the Civil Service and identifies areas which require improvement to enhance the capacity and capability of the system to meet existing and future challenges. Its latest progress report, published in June 2017, details the progress made on implementation to date.

Significant achievements to date include: the introduction of a new Corporate Governance Standard for the Civil Service; the development of a new People Strategy; the introduction of talent management programmes; a programme to improve project management capacity; a continuous programme of open recruitment; a new Disciplinary Code and revised performance management ratings system; a programme of organisational capability reviews and ongoing staff communications and engagement including through the Civil Service Employee Engage- ment Surveys.

A new shared model for learning and development, One Learning, has also been introduced to provide tailored training solutions and development opportunities for staff. New Civil Ser- vice wide mobility schemes are being implemented across the Civil Service to enhance workforce capability, support career development and facilitate relocation of staff. The Renewal Programme also encompasses the implementation of the ICT Strategy and major transformation programme for Shared Services in the Civil Service. Work has also progressed to promote the value of the National Data Infrastructure (NDI) in meeting known and emerging data needs in the Public service.

These actions combined are enabling the Civil Service to build strong and agile organisations, to continue to develop staff and thus improve the services provided to the Government and to citizens.

14/12/2017WRA04400Public Sector Staff Remuneration

14/12/2017WRA0450030. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the pension and public pay restoration to be carried out under FEMPI by Department and public body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53430/17]

14/12/2017WRA04600Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Public pay and pension restoration by Departments and public bodies has been and will be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Lansdowne Road Agreement (LRA):

www.per.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/Public-Service-Stability-Agreement-2013-2018.pdf.

and the Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA):

11 Questions - Written Answers www.per.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/LRA-extension.pdf.

Pay increases under the LRA were as follows:

2016

- 1st January annualised salaries up to €24,000 are increased by 2.5%.

- 1st January annualised salaries from €24,001 up to €31,000 are increased by 1%.

2017

- 1st September annualised salaries up to €65,000 are increased by €1,000.

Pay increases under PSSA are scheduled as follows:

2018

- 1st January annualised salaries to increase by 1%;

- 1st October annualised salaries to increase by 1%.

2019

- 1st January annualised salaries up to €30,000 to increase by 1%;

- 1st September annualised salaries to increase by 1.75%.

2020

- 1st January annualised salaries up to €32,000 to increase by 0.5%;

- 1st October annualised salaries to increase by 2%.

Pension Related Deduction changes under the LRA were as follows

- 1 January 2016 exemption threshold for payment of Pension Related Deduction (PRD) increased from €15,000 per annum to €24,750 per annum

- 1 September 2016 the exemption threshold increased further to €28,750.

Conversion of the Pension Related Deductions to the Additional Supperanuation Con- tribution under the PSSA are as follows

Public Servants who are Members of pre-2013 Pension Schemes with Standard Ac- crual Terms 1 January 2019

Band Rate Up to €32,000 Exempt €32,000 to €60,000 10% €60,000 plus 10.5%

1 January 2020

Band Rate Up to €34,500 Exempt €34,500 to €60,000 10%

12 14 December 2017 €60,000 plus 10.5% All Public Servants who are Members of the Single Public Service Pension Scheme 1 January 2019

Band Rate Up to €32,000 Exempt €32,000 to €60,000 6.66% €60,000 plus 7%

1 January 2020

Band Rate Up to €34,500 Exempt €34,500 to €60,000 3.33% €60,000 plus 3.5%

Public Servants who are Members of pre-2013 Pension Schemes with Fast Accrual Terms (Unchanged)

Band Rate Up to €28,750 Exempt €28,750 to €60,000 10% €60,000 plus 10.5%

14/12/2017WRA04700Public Sector Reform Review

14/12/2017WRA0480031. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the key actions to improve public services under the our public service 2020 plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53254/17]

14/12/2017WRA04900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Depu- ty will be aware, a new phase for public service reform was set out in Our Public Service 2020, which was published earlier this week.

Our Public Service 2020 aims to deliver better outcomes for the public, to support innovation and collaboration and to build public service organisations that are resilient and agile. There are 18 actions in the framework which is built on three key pillars as follows:

Delivering for Our Public focuses on ensuring that outcomes for the public are central to service delivery. This will be achieved by involving the public in the design and delivery of services, by improving how we listen and communicate, and by ensuring services are cost-effective. By making better use of new technology and data we will also improve service quality and accessibility . The five actions under this pillar will build on existing progress in areas such as shared services and procurement. The development of digital services and eGovernment is key to improving service delivery as is making better use of data and sharing data more effectively between organisations.

Innovating for Our Future has six actions that will enable the development of innovative, robust and joined-up strategies and policies related to the delivery of public services. This pillar will also support collaboration across the public service and help make the most of existing

13 Questions - Written Answers skills and experiences, and data. It will also promote a culture of evaluation. The public service needs to be increasingly innovative and collaborative to effectively respond to the complex challenges facing Ireland now and into the future.

Developing Our People and Organisations has seven actions which will support public servants and the organisations in which they work. The pillar aims to improve human resource management and to ensure the right mix of skills and tools are there to support public servants in delivering quality services. The actions in this pillar will help to build strong and agile public service organisations. Actions focus on sharing best practice and experience in areas such as strategic human resource management, workforce planning, employee engagement, public service culture and values, and equality, diversity and inclusion.

Implementation will be supported by promoting shared ownership of actions across the public service and by ensuring a strong emphasis on evaluating reforms.

14/12/2017WRA05000Public Sector Staff Retirements

14/12/2017WRA0510032. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if studies have taken place to determine the number of persons displaced by the retirement age, impacting on those 65 to 70 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53250/17]

14/12/2017WRA05200Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As this is a voluntary measure for existing public servants with a compulsory retirement age of 65, giving them the option to work until 70, it provides an ongoing opportunity to public servants to exercise their retirement option anytime from age 65 to age 70. This will be influenced by the personal circumstances of each individual, which may be subject to ongoing consideration as those personal circumstances change during their retirement horizon. Accordingly, it is difficult to estimate the impact of this measure in the future. However, high level analysis carried out by my Department indicates that in the region of 1,300 public servants recruited before 1 April 2004 reach the age of 65 in a given year and would potentially benefit from the measure. Also, based on existing retirement behaviour of public servants, it would be expected that as these employees will be in a position to retire on pension from age 65, there will be a continuing trend towards retirement over subsequent years. On this basis, it is expected that numbers within the cohort will steadily reduce over time between the ages of 65 and 70.

Question No. 33 answered with Question No. 21.

14/12/2017WRA05400Expenditure Reviews

14/12/2017WRA0550034. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans arising from a report (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53433/17]

14/12/2017WRA05600Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Responsibil- ity for policy decisions in this area are the responsibility of the Minister for Health.

The Deputy is referring to a paper, titled ‘Disability and Special Education Related Expen- diture’, which was prepared by the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service in the context of the Spending Review 2017 and was published in October. This was a cross-vote analysis of disability related expenditure across the Health, Education and Social Protection Votes. The Health chapter outlines the trend in Disability spend in recent years and highlights the substantial increase in funding that the service area has received since 2014. The paper

14 14 December 2017 identifies the main expenditure areas and provides some commentary on the way in which disability services are currently provided. This type of analysis helps to inform and encourage debate on key policy areas.

14/12/2017WRA05700Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRA0580035. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the €788 million below profile announced in the fiscal monitor will be returned to the central fund or if the funds will be kept in each Department in the event that spending projections across Departments are not met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53463/17]

14/12/2017WRA05900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As set out in the Fiscal Monitor for November, published by the Department of Finance, net voted expenditure was €788 million or 1.9% below profile. However, this aggregate underspend versus profile has been impacted by almost €0.4 billion by certain timing issues in relation to the Local Government Fund.

Current expenditure in the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government is over €260 million below profile. This is due to the fact that full draw down from the Local Govern- ment Fund sub-head will be completed in December instead of November.

Net Capital expenditure in the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport is €147 million below profile primarily due to the timing of a receipt of €129 million from the Local Govern- ment Fund. This amount was received in November but had been profiled for December.

Excluding these items, net current expenditure at the end of November is just under €70 million below profile and net capital expenditure is €326 million below profile. As outlined in the Appropriation Bill 2017, published on 7 December, a sum of €70.3 million in capital underspends from 2017 is available for spending in 2018 under the multiannual capital envelopes carryover facility. However, given the aggregate level of underspends at the end of November, after taking account of the timing issues and capital carryover, it is likely that there will be amounts surrendered by Departments at the end of the year.

In addition, the Deputy may wish to note that due to the scale of overall expenditure, and the cash basis of Government accounting, Supplementary Estimates can be required arising from policy decisions, overruns, timing issues or shifts in expenditure requirements. As we are operating under the fiscal rules that apply under the preventive arm of the Stability and Growth Pact, Supplementary Estimates need to be accommodated within the requirements of the fiscal rules. Additional expenditure requirements in one Department may be offset by underspends in other areas. In this context, underspends surrendered to the Exchequer at the year-end will mitigate the impact of the Supplementary Estimates approved by the Dáil last week.

14/12/2017WRA06000Consular Services Data

14/12/2017WRA0610036. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the Irish embassies worldwide which have enterprise attachés stationed; and the number of such attachés stationed in each such specific embassy by city and country. [53667/17]

14/12/2017WRA06200Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The establishment of a network of locally hired Commercial Attachés was one of the key components of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Economic Diplomacy Strategy launched in

15 Questions - Written Answers January 2016. The initiative was designed to bolster the capacity of our Mission network in selected locations to support economic promotion under the Department’s ‘Prosperity’ high level goal. Its focus was to improve our capacity to support market diversity. The selection of Missions for this pilot was based on a number of criteria, including the need for a variety of markets conditions, the strength of the submission by the relevant Mission in support of such an appointment, cost effectiveness, and the potential to support the economic state agencies in advancing our trade goals.

Under the initial phase of the pilot scheme attachés were appointed in Mexico City, Brasilia, Buenos Aires (also covering Chile), Bucharest (also covering Bulgaria), and Jakarta. Economic Development Officers are also in place in Abuja, Nairobi, and Hanoi. The post in Mexico City is currently vacant due to a change in personnel but is expected to be filled by a new officer in the New Year.

Working closely with the economic state agencies and with Trade Division within the De- partment of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the posts have facilitated trade promotion in such areas as market access, visibility, contact and information, market intelligence, and support to businesses. Under the direction of the diplomatic officers, they have enabled the Missions to advance their economic goals.

The Commercial Attachés and Economic Development Officers participated in the recent Team Ireland Conference at Croke Park. The Conference, jointly hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation involved representatives from the Departments and economic state agencies involved in economic promotion overseas.

14/12/2017WRB00200Human Rights Cases

14/12/2017WRB0030037. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the trial of a person (details supplied) in Turkey that began on 7 December 2017; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the Turkish authorities are not allowing them attend their own trial in person; his views on whether they will receive a fair trial in view of the present conditions in Turkey and the fact that President Erdogan openly calls his political opponent a terrorist; his views on the imprisonment of other HDP members and MPs; and if an official from the Irish embassy in Turkey is attending and monitoring this high profile trial. [53545/17]

14/12/2017WRB00400Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The Deputy will recall that my predecessor issued a statement expressing serious concerns when the co-chairs of the Peoples’ Democratic (HDP) Party, Figen Yüksekdað and Selahattin Demirtas, were arrested in November 2016. A representative of the Embassy in Ankara tried without success to gain access to the court when Figen Yüksekdað’s trial opened in July and, when Se- lahattin Demirtas’s trial opened on 7 December, a number of European Union and like-minded Embassies tried unsuccessfully to gain access to the court. Neither was Selahattin Demirtas allowed access to the court, since the authorities would only make a video-link available to him.

Notwithstanding the sensitive security situation in Turkey following the attempted coup in 2016, it is vital that the rule of law, freedom of expression and democracy should prevail. The arrest and detention of elected members of Parliament is especially worrying and I have repeatedly said that all those facing trial in Turkey must be afforded full due process, including the presumption of innocence and the right to a free and fair trial. The pre-trial detention of Selahattin Demirtas has already been lengthy and I am concerned that the level of transparency 16 14 December 2017 implicit in the right to due process is not being observed in this case. The Embassy in Ankara has regular contact with other HDP members of Parliament and will continue to monitor both trials as closely as feasible.

In the meantime, I would reiterate earlier calls to the Turkish authorities to engage in dialogue so that outstanding issues can be resolved by political means. Turkey is a candidate country for membership of the European Union and, as such, is committed to adhering to European values. The Turkish authorities need to continue to engage in constructive dialogue on human rights and rule of law issues, including with the Council of Europe.

14/12/2017WRB00500Legislative Programme

14/12/2017WRB0060038. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53569/17]

14/12/2017WRB00700Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): Spe- cific provisions of Acts under my Department that have not yet been commenced are Sections 14(8) and 14(9) of the Passports Act 2008.

These Sections of the Passports Act, if commenced, would provide that guardians’ consent to the issuing of a passport would be considered to be enduring for the child up to the age of 18. The commencement of these provisions is currently under consideration as part of the ongoing passport reform programme.

14/12/2017WRB00800European Council Meetings

14/12/2017WRB0090039. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the issues discussed at the recent EU Foreign Affairs Council; the outcome of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53909/17]

14/12/2017WRB01000Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I attended the most recent EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels on Monday 11 Decem- ber, where developments in the Middle East, including the Middle East Peace Process, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Libya were discussed.

The Council had a good exchange of views on the Middle East Peace Process and developments in the wider region. We discussed what more the EU can do to promote peaceful solutions to the various challenges facing the region. Ministers discussed the humanitarian crisis in Yemen. I spoke of the need for the EU to look at ways to step up its political engagement in seeking a negotiated solution to the conflict. I outlined that the EU must also redouble its efforts to press for access of humanitarian aid for those in dire need.

Over lunch, I participated in a discussion with Foreign and Development Ministers and the Foreign Ministers of the G5 Sahel countries. Following this, Foreign and Development Ministers had a discussion on the follow up to the EU-AU summit at the end of November. I welcomed the direct EU-AU political engagement which underlines that our relationship with Africa is at a turning point and requires sustained political engagement, with joint ministerial meetings a first step.

17 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRB01100European Council Meetings

14/12/2017WRB0120040. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if Prime Minister Netanyahu met the EU Foreign Affairs Council; if so, the outcome of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53910/17]

14/12/2017WRB01300Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Brussels on 11 December preceded the Foreign Affairs Council, and was not therefore a meeting with the Council itself. The meeting was an informal breakfast meeting, essentially an exchange of views, and so there was no formal outcome as such. High Representative Mogherini hosted the meeting, and a similar encounter with Palestinian President Abbas has been scheduled for January.

Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed himself in particular on regional security issues in the Middle East, and on the opportunities to improve relations and trade between the EU and Israel. In the light of the announcement by the United States on Jerusalem, which took place after the meeting had been scheduled, he also restated Israel’s longstanding position on Jerusalem as its capital, and hoped that EU countries would follow the US lead.

Led by HR Mogherini, the EU and its Member States restated our firm commitment to a two state solution which must include finding a way through negotiations for Jerusalem to serve as the future capital of two states – Israel and Palestine. More broadly, the EU side took the opportunity to restate to PM Netanyahu our chief concerns in relation to Israeli Government policies on Palestinian issues.

For my part, I also stressed to him the destructive impact of continued settlement building both on Palestinian lives and on the viability of the peace process.

14/12/2017WRB01400Brexit Negotiations

14/12/2017WRB0150041. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the status of the EU-British agreement on Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53915/17]

14/12/2017WRB0160050. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the legal standing of the joint report from the negotiators of the Euro- pean Union and the United Kingdom Government on progress during phase 1 of negotiations under Article 50 of the treaty on European Union on the United Kingdom’s orderly withdrawal from the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54102/17]

14/12/2017WRB0170053. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on Brexit Secretary, David Davis’s, comments that the agreement reached in phase 1 of Brexit negotiations is a statement of intent more than anything else. [54105/17]

14/12/2017WRB01800Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I propose to take Questions Nos. 41, 50 and 53 together.

I welcome the Joint Report from the EU and UK negotiators on progress in phase one of the Brexit negotiations, published on 8 December. On Irish-specific issues, the Government achieved the goals we set out to achieve in this phase. They included maintenance of the Com- mon Travel Area, protection of the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts and the gains of the peace process, including avoiding a hard border, and the protection of EU citizenship and other rights. 18 14 December 2017 We were consistently clear in seeking tangible commitments from the UK. We now have a written guarantee that a hard border will be avoided and commitments as to how this will be achieved.

In the event that it is not possible to resolve the border issue as part of a wider EU-UK future relationship agreement, which has always been the Irish Government’s preference, or through specific solutions proposed by the British Government, there is a commitment that the UK will maintain full alignment with those rules of the Customs Union and Single Market which support North South cooperation, the all-island economy and protect the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts. Moreover, such an arrangement must be compatible with the UK’s guarantee of avoiding a hard border, which is an ‘overarching requirement.’

The agreement between the EU and UK on Irish-specific issues set out in the Joint Report represents, as do the other elements of the Progress Report, a set of very strong political commitments and guarantees. These must now be reflected in the Withdrawal Agreement which will be legally binding and must be concluded before the UK’s departure from the EU on 29 March 2019. The Joint Report makes clear that progress in the Phase Two negotiations, including on the framework for future relations between the EU and UK, will only be possible if commitments made in Phase One are being honoured through the elaboration of the formal Withdrawal Agreement.

14/12/2017WRB01900EU Directives

14/12/2017WRB0200042. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans in respect of the implementation of the European Union work life balance directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53954/17]

14/12/2017WRB02100Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The European Commission initiated a proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on work-life balance for parents and carers and repealing Council Directive 2010/18/ EU on 26 April 2017. The proposed directive aims to address women’s under-representation in employment and support their career progression through improved conditions to reconcile their working and private duties.

Discussions on the proposed Directive will continue at working group level under the Bul- garian Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2018. The Bulgarian Presidency hopes that discussions on the Directive will progress to ‘general approach’ at the EPSCO formation of the Council in either March or June 2018. Accordingly, it is too soon to plan for the proposal’s implementation at this stage in negotiations.

The Department of Justice and Equality is leading the negotiations on behalf of Ireland.

14/12/2017WRB02200Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRB0230043. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the expenditure on external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since May 2016; the names of the reports in tabular form; the publication or expected publication date of each report; the cost of each report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53969/17]

14/12/2017WRB0240059. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs

19 Questions - Written Answers per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date in tabular form. [54261/17]

14/12/2017WRB02500Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 59 together.

The Department is responsible for two votes - Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs and Trade) and Vote 27 (International Cooperation).

The Department commissions external expertise where highly specialised skills are not available within the Department and in particular where ongoing independent evaluation of programmes and projects is required. During the course of their engagement, these consultants and experts may prepare reports and other documentation for the Department.

In-depth analysis of issues by external experts has informed, and continues to inform, the the Department’s policies. It allows for a more targeted use of resources and greater accountability in the allocation of budgets.

These services are procured by open competitive tendering processes in accordance with EU and national rules and comply with the overall value for money objective of the Department.

Separately, a low number of consultancies are occasionally engaged directly by our Mis- sions abroad and in some instances they prepare technical reports relating to the overseas development programme.

I refer the Deputies to written parliamentary question Ref No: 17434/17 responded to on Thursday, 6 April, 2017 concerning external reports commissioned by my Department from March 2011 to April 2017 detailing the name, costs, date of commission, date of publication, where appropriate, and name of the external consultant which is available on the Oireachtas website.Details of reports commissioned since April 2017 to date are included in the following table:

Commission Experts/Consul- Report/Subject Cost(€) Date of publica- tants tion 2017 ASM Audit of grants 47,375 Not Applicable awarded under – see footnote* Emigrant Sup- port Programme 2017 Tierney & As- Systems review 15,375 * sociates, Risk of Emigrant & Governance Support Pro- Consultants gramme 2017 Indecon Consul- Economic Re- 73,627.80 Not yet pub- tants port on Address- lished ing the Chal- lenges Faced by Returning Irish Emigrants 2017 Ernst & Young External Quality 15,000 * (EY) Assessment of Internal Audit

20 14 December 2017 Commission Experts/Consul- Report/Subject Cost(€) Date of publica- tants tion 2017 Amárach Re- Brexit Research: 21,000 * search Understand- ing the likely demand for Irish passports from citizens in U.K 2017 M Horizon Continental 3,163 * (UK) Ltd Shelf NE Atlan- tic 2017 Mary Brady Overview of 4,500 * Humanitarian Mine Action 2017 Noel Casserly UNFCCC 25,537 * Reporting and Climate Financ- ing Mapping 2016 – 2017 2017 Rachael Twinem Internal review Final cost not * of the manage- yet available ment structure and roles in the DICE (Develop- ment and Inter- cultural Educa- tion) project 2017 Mercer Interna- Study of Com- 19,188 * tional pensation Levels - Locally engaged staff in diplomatic missions (Irish Aid) *Certain reports commissioned by the Department are for internal management usage and not for publication. However, many Irish Aid related reports are published on www.irishaid.ie

14/12/2017WRB02600Passport Data

14/12/2017WRB0270044. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of passports issued by his department in each of the years 2012 to 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53970/17]

14/12/2017WRB02800Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The number of passports issued in the years requested is as follows:

Year Passports issued 2012 635,600 2013 634,635 2014 632,156 21 Questions - Written Answers Year Passports issued 2015 672,760 2016 733,060 2017 (1st Jan. 0 10th Dec.) 752,296

14/12/2017WRB02900Passport Applications Data

14/12/2017WRB0300045. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of persons from Great Britain and Northern Ireland that have applied for an Irish passport in each of the years, 2012 to 2017, in tabular form. [53971/17]

14/12/2017WRB03100Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): Track- ing of passport applications is in general carried out against channel of application rather than by other metrics, including country of origin. Bearing this in mind, the following general breakdown of applications will give the available detail on numbers of passport applications received from Northern Ireland and Great Britain for 2012 to 2016 and in 2017 to date:

Year Northern Ireland Great Britain 2012 41,124 45,646 2013 44,122 42,441 2014 48,475 43,449 2015 53,715 46,229 2016 67,582 63,453 2017* 80,964 81,287 (*1 Jan. – 10 Dec. 2017 only)

14/12/2017WRB03200Overseas Development Aid Expenditure

14/12/2017WRB0330046. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the target date set by his Department for reaching the 0.7% ODA GNP target; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53972/17]

14/12/2017WRB03400Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Ciarán Cannon): The Government is strongly committed to Ireland’s overseas development cooperation programme and to its place at the heart of our foreign policy. Our policy for International Development, “One World, One Future”, clearly articulates our commitment to the UN target of providing 0.7% of Gross National Income (GNI) in Official Development Assistance (ODA), as economic conditions allow.

The current Programme for Government sets out our ambition to make progress towards the UN target as resources permit. This progress needs to be made in a sustainable and manageable way, building on Ireland’s recognised role as a reliable and effective partner in contributing to ending global poverty and hunger, and in providing humanitarian assistance. For 2016 – the most recently published OECD statistics, Ireland contributed 0.33% of GNI to Official Devel- opment Assistance.

In line with EU member states, we remain committed to making incremental, sustainable and manageable progress towards achieving the 0.7% UN target by 2030, over the period of the Sustainable Development Goals. Reaching this target will involve significant increases to the ODA budget and requires careful planning and consultation with other Government De- 22 14 December 2017 partments and stakeholders. This ambitious pathway towards making greater but sustainable progress on the UN target w ill be informed by the new White Paper on Ireland’s development assistance programme which will be produced next year.

14/12/2017WRB03500Human Rights

14/12/2017WRB0360047. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on recent events in Venezuela including the banning of opposition parties from the 2018 election there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53973/17]

14/12/2017WRB03700Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The situation in Venezuela continues to be a matter of serious concern to the Government.

Municipal elections took place in Venezuela on 10 December 2017. Preliminary results released by the country’s national electoral institute suggested that the ruling party of Presi- dent Maduro, the Partido Socialista Unido de Venezuela (PSUV), won a significant majority of available seats. The electoral process was partly boycotted by the opposition and the rate of participation by the electorate was low. This followed on from gubernatorial elections in Octo- ber, the results of which were not recognised by a large part of the opposition amidst numerous reported incidences of irregularity.

In parallel, attempts to foster meaningful dialogue between the government and the opposition, aimed at bringing about political stability and addressing the severe challenges facing the country, are continuing. The talks are being hosted by the Dominican Republic and accompanied by six countries of the region acting as guarantors of the process. We consider this a step in the right direction and are fully supportive of regional efforts to find a lasting solution to the crisis.

Presidential elections are due to take place in December 2018. Ireland and its EU partners have called for concrete action to ensure the full respect and independence of Venezuela’s democratic institutions, notably through the holding of free and fair elections supervised by a balanced Electoral Council and involving independent international observation.

On 13 November last, at a meeting of EU Foreign Ministers, which I attended, it was agreed unanimously to adopt restrictive measures, underscoring our concerns at the situation in the country. These measures consist of an embargo on arms and on related material that might be used for internal repression, as well as a legal framework for a travel ban and assets freeze. The measures are designed to be scaled up or down on a gradual basis to respond to developments in Venezuela, of which respect for the electoral timetable and process will represent an important barometer. We will continue to monitor the situation closely in concert with our European partners.

14/12/2017WRB03800Undocumented Irish in the USA

14/12/2017WRB0390048. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the estimated number of Irish persons living in the United States of America without documentation; the recent efforts that have been made to resolve this issue; the number of meetings held; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53974/17]

14/12/2017WRB04000Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I want first of all to reassure the Deputy that the Government remains committed to finding a solution

23 Questions - Written Answers to the plight of the thousands of undocumented Irish in the United States.

By their nature, it is difficult to put exact numbers on undocumented communities, and the thousands of undocumented Irish in the US are no different. Estimates vary as to the numbers but our priority is to assist those who need our help and to find a solution, irrespective of their number.

The Government continues to avail of all opportunities to raise US immigration reform and the status of the undocumented Irish with the US administration and with contacts on Capitol Hill.

Officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, working both here and in the US, are engaged on the issue on an ongoing basis, having regular meetings with their US and Irish community contacts, and I am kept fully informed of developments.

For my own part, during my visit to New York for the UN General Assembly in September, I met with representatives of the four Irish Immigration Centres in the region and a representative of the US-wide Coalition of Irish Immigration Centres.

In addition, I met with a senior State Department official during that visit and I was able to further emphasise the Government’s commitment to this issue when I travelled to Washington DC on 3-5 October.

The Government’s special envoy to Congress on the undocumented, Deputy John Deasy, accompanied me on that most recent visit and together we engaged with senior members of the US administration and with members of Congress, including the Congressional Friends of Ireland Group.

Outside of my own engagement on the issue, Deputy Deasy has visited the US four times since his appointment, in July, September, October, and November.

In addition to contact at political level, officials from our Embassy in Washington, D.C., stay in regular contact with the administration and with congressional contacts on both sides of the aisle.

The Deputy can be assured that officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, both here and in Washington, D.C., will, under my direction, continue to give priority to this issue, mindful of its importance to the thousands of undocumented themselves and their families in Ireland.

14/12/2017WRB04100Departmental Budgets

14/12/2017WRB0420049. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a budget has been allocated to the person in the role of US special envoy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53975/17]

14/12/2017WRB04300Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The Taoiseach appointed Deputy John Deasy as Special Envoy to the United States Congress on the Undocumented Irish in June 2017.

The work of the Special Envoy is conducted under my overall direction and is part of the ongoing engagement by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on the issue of the undocumented Irish in the United States.

24 14 December 2017 Our diplomatic network across the United States continues to engage at every opportunity with representatives of the Administration and Congress, as well as with Irish community organisations, to seek relief for the undocumented.

As the Taoiseach indicated at the time of the appointment, no additional remuneration is paid to the Special Envoy.

The staff resources required are drawn from existing resources in relevant sections of my Department, as needed and on a case by case basis. Likewise, the envoy’s travel and subsistence expenses are covered from within the existing resources of my Department. The Depart- mental budget for 2018 is currently under consideration and it is anticipated that a budget will be allocated to the role as part of that process.

Question No. 50 answered with Question No. 41.

14/12/2017WRB04500Brexit Negotiations

14/12/2017WRB0460051. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the priorities of Ireland for phase two of Brexit negotiations as they relate to individual sectors of the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54103/17]

14/12/2017WRB0470052. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on all meetings scheduled with Task Force 50 in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54104/17]

14/12/2017WRB04800Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 52 together.

The second phase of the Article 50 negotiations will enable discussions to get under way between the EU and the UK on transitional arrangements and on the framework for the future relationship between the EU and the UK.

Ireland’s overriding objective is that a future EU-UK agreement should be comprehensive and ambitious and as wide as possible in its scope, while ensuring a level playing field and pro- tecting the integrity of the Single Market. We also want to see transition arrangements which preserve the status quo in terms of British rights and obligations, other than in relation to membership of the EU institutions and agencies. They should be in place for a period long enough to allow for an orderly Brexit.

It will also be important to maintain a clear focus on the unique challenges faced by Ireland. All aspects of the Irish specific issues will continue to be worked on in a distinct stream of work in phase 2. The EU27, including Ireland, will therefore need to be satisfied that the principles and commitments agreed on Friday are delivered upon and reflected in the withdrawal agreement.

There is no question that Brexit poses very significant and serious challenges to Ireland’s economy and trade, as well as across a range of other sectors. While in recent years we have been diversifying increasingly to other markets, Ireland is still heavily reliant on the UK as a trading partner. A number of key sectors will also be impacted significantly, including, but not limited to, agri-food, fisheries, financial services, transport, energy, enterprise and trade more generally.

In this regard, Ireland’s approach to phase two of the negotiations will continue to be in-

25 Questions - Written Answers formed by the detailed sectoral work being done by individual Departments, and through cross- Departmental coordination structures chaired by my Department. These represent a very active channel through which all relevant Departments are providing their research, analysis and overall policy input to the Government’s overall response to Brexit, including its priorities for the next phase of the Article 50 negotiations.

Since taking up office, engagement on Brexit with Michel Barnier and his Taskforce, and with other EU partners, has been a central element of my work and that of my Department and our Missions. This approach has yielded clear results in ensuring that Ireland’s unique issues and concerns have been fully understood by our EU27 partners and have been reflected in the EU’s negotiating position and the outcome of Phase 1. As the negotiations move to a new phase in 2018, we will continue working closely with the Commission Task Force to advance Irish priorities.

Question No. 53 answered with Question No. 41.

14/12/2017WRB05000EU Issues

14/12/2017WRB0510054. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised the EU Ombudsman report on unpaid internships in the European Exter- nal Action Service with his EU colleagues; if he will recommend action on the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54136/17]

14/12/2017WRB05200Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): As I noted in my response to the Deputy regarding this matter on 13 July 2017, the EU Ombudsman report on unpaid internships in the European External Action Service is an “own initiative” report that has not been the subject of formal discussion among EU foreign ministers. I noted also that the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice- President of the Commission Mogherini has responded to the EU Ombudsman on the report outlining how the EEAS internship programme will be revised from 2018 and I will monitor progress in that regard with interest.

Ireland participates in the “EEAS Junior Professionals in EU Delegations” paid programme. In addition my own Department offers a limited number of paid 11 month internships for gradu- ates which are advertised on the career opportunities section on our website www.dfa.ie. Paid internship positions also arise from time to time with the Department’s Development Coopera- tion Division, which administers the Irish Aid programme.

14/12/2017WRB05300Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRB0540055. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54197/17]

14/12/2017WRB0550056. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the use his Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to Febru- ary 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54213/17]

14/12/2017WRB05600Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 56 together.

The core functions of my Department are predominantly concerned with international po- 26 14 December 2017 litical and security policy, advancing reconciliation and cooperation on the island of Ireland, representing Ireland at the EU level, and promoting Ireland’s economic and trade interests in Europe and internationally.

The Deputy will find details of use of the Ministerial Air Transport Service on the Depart- ment of Defence website at http://www.defence.ie/WebSite.nsf/Document+ID/FFF14F42B7D A240280257632003D5C94?OpenDocument

14/12/2017WRB05700Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRB0580057. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54229/17]

14/12/2017WRB0590058. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the use of external public relations firms employed by his department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54245/17]

14/12/2017WRB06000Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I propose to take Question Nos. 57 and 58 together.

Photography

My Department only avails of the services of external photographic agencies where it is warranted, in particular for major events and State occasions. This is a service which my De- partment provides so that the media can easily and freely avail of photography where their own staff photographers cannot be fully accommodated. Events such as the visit of Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall in May 2017 and those by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada in July 2017 and UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson in November 2017 resulted in positive overseas media coverage of Ireland.

Through the Office of Government Procurement an updated Multi-Supplier Framework Agreement for the provision of Professional Photography and Videography is now in operation. My Department procures the services of external photographic agencies via this Framework where necessary.

In addition, my Department continues to avail of in-house resources for photography whenever possible.

In relation to photography costs for the period March 2011 to December 2016, I would refer the Deputy to the reply issued to Question No. 349 of 13 December 2016.

The cost of photography to my Department for events which took place in 2017 is listed in Table 1. A small number of invoices for photography at events held during 2017 have yet to be received. In the time available, it has not proved possible to compile a breakdown of photography costs associated with events organized by Ireland’s network of 80 diplomatic missions abroad.

Public Relations

27 Questions - Written Answers My Department has not incurred expenditure on external public relations services since March 2011. Expenditure has, however, arisen in the context of specific initiatives under Ire- land’s overseas development programme for which we have from time to time commissioned companies with a public relations and communications background to provide other professional services such as project management, logistics and event management. The information requested by the Deputy in this area is set out in Table 2.

DHR Communications has been contracted to manage and administer grants to journalists reporting on international development issues under the Simon Cumbers Media Fund (SCMF) and to manage and administer annual Africa Day celebrations.

The SCMF involves managing three funding rounds each year, including the annual SCMF student competition. This typically involves the following activities:

- Convening national and regional information workshops;

- Managing and administering the application process;

- Organising the judging process

- Providing detailed feedback to all applicants;

- Processing grant payments and keeping detailed administrative and financial records;

- Maintaining and updating the SCMF website.

It should be noted that expenses paid to third parties account for approximately 30% of the total paid to DHR for managing and administering the Simon Cumbers Media Fund. This includes costs associated with maintaining and updating the SCMF website, facilitating the judging process and raising awareness of the Fund among journalists.

Following a competitive tendering process, DHR has also been engaged to plan, manage and execute a national Africa Day flagship event in Dublin. This includes the administration of a small grants scheme for regional events which DHR managed on behalf of the Department in partnership with a number of local authorities. DHR also worked to raise public awareness of the Africa Day events, including through the use of social media and the Africa Day website. This public awareness work represented a very minor element of the overall project and was conducted in close cooperation with my Department’s communications office.

Africa Day events have been hosted by the Department in Iveagh Gardens in 2009 and 2010, in CHQ in George’s Dock in 2012 and at the Farmleigh Estate annually since 2013. In 2011, the Department supported a series of smaller-scale performances, family events, art exhi- bitions, debates and educational activities instead of hosting a flagship event.

In relation to the expenditure on Africa Day, expenses paid to third parties accounted for between 70% and 80% of the total costs listed below. This included expenditure on security, sanitation, venue set-up, health and safety issues and small grants to facilitate the participation of community groups.

DHR also previously provided short-term management support services for the Review of the White Paper on Irish Aid, including the logistical management of the nationwide public consultation activities.

Table 1: Photography Costs - 2017

HQ Total: €39, 165.66

28 14 December 2017 Mission Total: €14, 216.21

Department Total to date for 2017: €53,381.87

Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Presentation of Credentials 13/12/2016 €351.85 Minister Mr. Joe Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps McHugh,, T.D., rep- raphy resenting the Govern- ment Photography Senator Gary 17/01/2017 575.64 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Harte Iveagh House Lec- ture 14/12/2016 Photography Minister 17/01/2017 292.74 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Flanagan 21/12/2016 Presentation of Credentials 02/03/2017 €351.85 Minister Andrew Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps Doyle, T.D. represent- raphy ing the Government Photography Minister 07/03/2017 68.88 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Flanagan Photography Visit of Bos- 07/03/2017 516.6 Minister Flanagan Maxwells nian Foreign Minister Photography Visit of New 07/03/2017 551.04 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Zealand Foreign Minister Photography Visit of Japa- 07/03/2017 740.07 Minister Flanagan Maxwells nese Foreign Minister Photography US Ambas- 07/03/2017 120.54 Minister Flanagan Maxwells sador Farewell Event Photography All Island 13/03/2017 1412.04 n/a Maxwells Civic Dialogue Media Trip 16/02/17 Photography Visit of 13/03/2017 671.58 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Australia Foreign Minister 24/02/17 Photography Visit of 13/03/2017 413.28 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Secretary of State for NI James Brokenshire 14/02/17 Photography Visit of UAE 13/03/2017 585.48 Minster Flanagan Maxwells Foreign Minister 20/02/17 Photography Bundestag 13/03/2017 878.22 Minister Flanagan Maxwells And Milliband Visit 23/02/17 Photography Visit of 13/03/2017 654.36 Minister Flanagan Maxwells French Foreign Minister 22/02/17 Photography Email of 22/03/2017 14 n/a Maxwells Jpeg for annual report 22/03/17 Presentation of Credentials 07/04/2017 €351.85 Minister Catherine By- Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps rne , T.D., representing raphy the Government Photography Visit of Lux- 25/04/2017 1222.62 Minister Flanagan Maxwells embourg Foreign Minister 10/03/17 Photography: Launch of 25/04/2017 585.48 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Online Passport Service 30/03/17 29 Questions - Written Answers

Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Photography Email of 25/04/2017 189.42 n/a Maxwells Jpegs for Civic Dialogue 17/02/17 Presentation of Credentials 27/04/2017 €351.85 Minister Damien Eng- Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps lish, T.D., representing raphy the Government Presentation of Credentials 16/05/2017 €351.85 Minister Marcella Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps Corcoran T.D., repre- raphy senting the Govern- ment Photography Visit of EU 17/05/2017 1100.85 Minister Flanagan Julien Behal Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier 12/05/17 Photography Global Irish 17/05/2017 1168.5 Minister Flanagan Photocall Ireland Civic Forum 04/05/17 Photography Royal Visit 18/05/2017 999.38 Minister Flanagan Julien Behal Kilkenny 11/05/17 Photography Min Flan 23/05/2017 204.3 Minister Flanagan Denis Byrne meeting Deputy PM Viet- nam 24/04/17 Photography Royal 23/05/2017 467.4 Minister Flanagan Photocall Ireland Visit Farmleigh Gallery 11/05/17 Photography GAA & Irish 09/06/2017 522.75 Minister Mc Hugh Julien Behal Abroad Global Games Launch 24/05/17 Photography Visit of 13/06/2017 977.85 Minister Flanagan Julien Behal Danish Foreign Minister 02/06/17 Photography Chinese Visit 13/06/2017 522.75 Minister Flanagan Julien Behal to Iveagh House 08/06/17 Photography All Island 13/06/2017 442.8 Minister Mc Hugh Clive Wasson Civic Dialogue Event in Letterkenny 22/05/17 Photography Royal Visit 15/06/2017 1136.52 Minister Flanagan Maxwells Dublin Friday 12/05/17 Presentation Credentials 15/06/2017 €351.82 Minister Joe McHugh, Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps T.D., representing the raphy Government Photography Visit of 27/06/2017 1014.75 n/a Julien Behal Prince Albert of Monaco 23/06/17 Photography Joint Ireland 27/06/2017 500 n/a Eric Flamand UK Messines Commemo- ration 07/06/2017 Photography Visit of 06/07/2017 1383.75 Minister Coveney Julien Behal Finnish Foreign Minister 03/07/17 Photography Visit of 06/07/2017 2736.75 n/a Julien Behal Prime Minister of Canada 3-4/07/17 Photography Passport 19/07/2017 611.85 Minister Coveney Julien Behal Stats Photo 18/07/17

30 14 December 2017

Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Photography Visit of Japa- 19/07/2017 522.75 Minister Flanagan Julien Behal nese Princess Takamado 09/07/17 Photography Official 02/09/2017 2214 n/a Julien Behal Photos for Min Coveney, MoS Cannon, Ambassador O’Neil and visit of Secre- tary of State for NI Presentation of Credentials 05/09/2017 €454.20 Minister Mary Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps Mitchell-O’Connor, raphy T.D., representing the Government Photography Visit of for- 06/09/2017 854.85 Minister Coveney Julien Behal mer President of Finland & Nobel Prize winner Martti Ahtisaari Presentation of Credentials 21/09/2017 €351.85 Minister John Paul Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps Phelan,, T.D., repre- raphy senting the Govern- ment Photography Missile Con- 24/10/2017 984 n/a Julien Behal trol Conference Photography Reconcilia- 07/11/2017 799.5 n/a Julien Behal tion Forum 28/10/17 Presentation of Credentials 14/11/2017 €351.85 Minister, Ciarán Can- Maxwell Photog- by Diplomatic Corps non, T.D., representing raphy the Government Photography Visit of 24/11/2017 922.5 Minister Coveney Julien Behal Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson Photography Team Ireland 24/11/2017 645.75 n/a Julien Behal Conference Croke Park Photography Visit of Lat- 24/11/2017 522.75 Minister Coveney Julien Behal vian Foreign Minister Photography Human 24/11/2017 522.75 n/a Julien Behal Rights Conference Photography Future of 24/11/2017 731.85 Taoiseach, Minister Julien Behal Europe Launch event Coveney and MoS McEntee Photography Brexit Media 24/11/2017 2829 n/a Julien Behal trip New Years’ Greetings by €1,064.80 Minister Helen McEn- Maxwell Photog- the President for the Dip- tee, T.D., representing raphy lomatic Corps the Government

Table 2

This table sets out the payments for project and event management since 2011:

Payments for Project and Event Management 2011 to 2017

31 Questions - Written Answers

Name of 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 (to Project/ date) Event DHR €73,237 €47,430 €73,836 €60,338 €83,757 €145,278 €108,026 Commu- nications: SCMF DHR €25,000 €26,026 Nil Nil Nil Nil Nil Commu- nications: White Pa- per Review DHR €6,806 €90,851 €118,644 €143,829 €179,221 €206,126 €189,041 Commu- nications: Africa Day Total €105,043 €164,307 €192,480 €204,167 €262,978 €351,404 €297,067 Question No. 59 answered with Question No. 43.

14/12/2017WRB06200Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRB0630060. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such government information campaigns; the name of each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54277/17]

14/12/2017WRB0640061. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54293/17]

14/12/2017WRB06500Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 61 together.

Photography - 2017

In addition, my Department continues to avail of in-house resources for photography when- 32 14 December 2017 ever possible.

Table 1: Photography Costs - 2017

HQ Total: €39, 165.66

Mission Total: €14, 216.21

Department Total to date for 2017: €53,381.87

Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Presentation of 13/12/2016 €351.85 Minister Mr. Joe Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- McHugh,, T.D., tography matic Corps representing the Government Photography Senator 17/01/2017 575.64 Minister Flana- Maxwells Gary Harte Iveagh gan House Lecture 14/12/2016 Photography Minister 17/01/2017 292.74 Minister Flana- Maxwells Flanagan 21/12/2016 gan Presentation of 02/03/2017 €351.85 Minister An- Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- drew Doyle, tography matic Corps T.D. representing the Govern- ment Photography Minister 07/03/2017 68.88 Minister Flana- Maxwells Flanagan gan Photography Visit 07/03/2017 516.6 Minister Flana- Maxwells of Bosnian Foreign gan Minister Photography Visit of 07/03/2017 551.04 Minister Flana- Maxwells New Zealand Foreign gan Minister Photography Visit 07/03/2017 740.07 Minister Flana- Maxwells of Japanese Foreign gan Minister Photography US 07/03/2017 120.54 Minister Flana- Maxwells Ambassador Farewell gan Event Photography All 13/03/2017 1412.04 Minister Flana- Maxwells Island Civic Dialogue gan Media Trip 16/02/17

33 Questions - Written Answers Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Photography Visit 13/03/2017 671.58 Minister Flana- Maxwells of Australia Foreign gan Minister 24/02/17 Photography Visit of 13/03/2017 413.28 Minister Flana- Maxwells Secretary of State for gan NI James Broken- shire 14/02/17 Photography Visit of 13/03/2017 585.48 Minister Flana- Maxwells UAE Foreign Minis- gan ter 20/02/17 Photography Bund- 13/03/2017 878.22 Minister Flana- Maxwells estag And Milliband gan Visit 23/02/17 Photography Visit of 13/03/2017 654.36 Minister Flana- Maxwells French Foreign Min- gan ister 22/02/17 Photography Email of 22/03/2017 14 Minister Flana- Maxwells Jpeg for annual report gan 22/03/17 Presentation of 07/04/2017 €351.85 Minister Cath- Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- erine Byrne , tography matic Corps T.D., representing the Govern- ment Photography Visit of 25/04/2017 1222.62 Minister Flana- Maxwells Luxembourg Foreign gan Minister 10/03/17 Photography: Launch 25/04/2017 585.48 Minister Flana- Maxwells of Online Passport gan Service 30/03/17 Photography Email 25/04/2017 189.42 Minister Flana- Maxwells of Jpegs for Civic gan Dialogue 17/02/17 Presentation of 27/04/2017 €351.85 Minister Da- Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- mien English, tography matic Corps T.D., representing the Govern- ment Presentation of 16/05/2017 €351.85 Minister Mar- Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- cella Corcoran tography matic Corps T.D., representing the Govern- ment Photography Visit 17/05/2017 1100.85 Minister Flana- Julien Behal of EU Chief Nego- gan tiator Michel Barnier 12/05/17

34 14 December 2017 Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Photography Global 17/05/2017 1168.5 Minister Flana- Photocall Ire- Irish Civic Forum gan land 04/05/17 Photography Royal 18/05/2017 999.38 Minister Flana- Julien Behal Visit Kilkenny gan 11/05/17 Photography Min 23/05/2017 204.3 Minister Flana- Denis Byrne Flan meeting Dep- gan uty PM Vietnam 24/04/17 Photography Royal 23/05/2017 467.4 Minister Flana- Photocall Ire- Visit Farmleigh Gal- gan land lery 11/05/17 Photography GAA & 09/06/2017 522.75 Minister Mc Julien Behal Irish Abroad Global Hugh Games Launch 24/05/17 Photography Visit of 13/06/2017 977.85 Minster Flana- Julien Behal Danish Foreign Min- gan ister 02/06/17 Photography Chi- 13/06/2017 522.75 Minister Flana- Julien Behal nese Delegation gan Visit to Iveagh House 08/06/17 Photography All 13/06/2017 442.8 Minister Mc Clive Wasson Island Civic Dialogue Hugh Event in Letterkenny 22/05/17 Photography Royal 15/06/2017 1136.52 Minister Flana- Maxwells Visit Dublin Friday gan 12/05/17 Presentation Creden- 15/06/2017 €351.82 Minister Joe Maxwell Pho- tials by Diplomatic McHugh, T.D., tography Corps representing the Government Photography Visit 27/06/2017 1014.75 n/a Julien Behal of Prince Albert of Monaco 23/06/17 Photography Joint 27/06/2017 500 n/a Eric Flamand Ireland UK Messines Commemoration 07/06/2017 Photography Visit 06/07/2017 1383.75 Minister Co- Julien Behal of Finnish Foreign veney Minister 03/07/17 Photography Visit 06/07/2017 2736.75 n/a Julien Behal of Prime Minister of Canada 3-4/07/17

35 Questions - Written Answers Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Photography Passport 19/07/2017 611.85 Minister Co- Julien Behal Stats Photo 18/07/17 veney Photography Visit 19/07/2017 522.75 Minister Flana- Julien Behal of Japanese Princess gan Takamado 09/07/17 Photography Official 02/09/2017 2214 n/a Julien Behal Photos for Min Co- veney, MoS Cannon, Ambassador O’Neil and visit of Secretary of State for NI Presentation of 05/09/2017 €454.20 Minister Mary Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- Mitchell- tography matic Corps O’Connor, T.D., representing the Government Photography Visit 06/09/2017 854.85 n/a Julien Behal of former President of Finland & Nobel Prize winner Martti Ahtisaari Presentation of 21/09/2017 €351.85 Minister John Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- Paul Phelan,, tography matic Corps T.D., representing the Govern- ment Photography Missile 24/10/2017 984 n/a Julien Behal Control Conference Photography Rec- 07/11/2017 799.5 n/a Julien Behal onciliation Forum 28/10/17 Presentation of 14/11/2017 €351.85 Minister, Ciarán Maxwell Pho- Credentials by Diplo- Cannon, T.D., tography matic Corps representing the Government Photography Visit 24/11/2017 922.5 Minister Co- Julien Behal of Foreign Secretary veney Boris Johnson Photography Team 24/11/2017 645.75 n/a Julien Behal Ireland Conference Croke Park Photography Visit 24/11/2017 522.75 Minister Co- Julien Behal of Latvian Foreign veney Minister Photography Human 24/11/2017 522.75 n/a Julien Behal Rights Conference

36 14 December 2017 Description Date Cost Minister Photographer Photography Future 24/11/2017 731.85 Taoiseach, Min- Julien Behal of Europe Launch ister Coveney event and MoS McEn- tee Photography Brexit 24/11/2017 2829 n/a Julien Behal Media trip New Years’ Greetings €1,064.80 Minister Helen Maxwell Pho- by the President for McEntee, T.D., tography the Diplomatic Corps representing the Government Advertising - 2017

My Department engages in advertising of Government information which it is considered necessary to bring to the attention of citizens . Online adult passport renewals are a key part of the Passport Reform Programme and my Department has advertised in 2017 in order to ensure a good uptake by citizens of this innovative service.

The advertising in question took the form of a multi-format outdoor transport campaign combined with digital units in Dublin and Belfast Airports to promote the online passport service. The outdoor transport campaign ran over two two-week cycles in May and June. The digital units in Dublin and Belfast Airports ran from May to August. In addition to the outdoor campaign, a further online and social media campaign was also run with ads being placed around digital articles and social media activity on travel-related themes. This part of the campaign ran from April until August of this year.

The advertising was successful in helping to raise public awareness of this award-winning new service and has seen over 108,000 people avail of it to date. The total cost of the advertising is outlined in the following table:

Table 2: Advertising Costs - 2017

Activity Cost Supplier Public Information Cam- €210,324.15 MEC paign to raise awareness of the Online Passport Service Communications / Public Relations

In 2017, my Department has not engaged outside public relations companies for the purposes of communications or public relations advice.

My Department has from time to time commissioned companies with a public relations and communications background but this has been for the provision of other professional services such as project management, logistics and event management, particularly in relation to Irish Aid public outreach activities.

Website Development – 2017

The Department’s websites (including www.dfa.ie, www.irishaid.ie, www.globalirish.ie and those of Ireland’s 80 diplomatic missions abroad) are used to publish valuable information for citizens, including on passports and citizenship, updates on the work of the Department and its Ministers and Government travel advisories for over 200 countries abroad. The Department’s websites receive in excess of 27 million page views per year. 37 Questions - Written Answers Maintenance and development costs during 2017 in this area have been as follows:

Table 3: Website Development Costs - 2017

Activity Cost Supplier Website Development €30,080 Action Point Innovation Ltd. Website Development €65,054 Terminal Four Solutions Ltd. Subtotal €95,134 Additional Website Services €132,566 Action Point Innovation Ltd. Development Costs Additional Website Services €43,917 Capita IB Solutions Development Costs Subtotal €176,483 TOTAL €271,617 Media Interview Training and Preparation – 2017

Senior Department staff members have received training on communicating in crisis situations, which is fundamental in ensuring that the Department serves Irish citizens at home and abroad during consular emergencies overseas. The relevant payments made in 2017 were as follows:

Table 4: Media Interview Training and Preparation – 2017

Activity Cost Supplier Pre-posting training in com- €3000 Communications Clinic munications

14/12/2017WRC00200Primary Medical Certificates Eligibility

14/12/2017WRC0030062. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance his plans to improve the criteria in respect of the primary medical certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53947/17]

14/12/2017WRC00400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme provides relief from VAT and VRT on the purchase of an adapted car for transport of a person with specific severe and permanent physical disabilities, payment of a fuel grant, and an exemption from Motor Tax.

To qualify for the Scheme an applicant must be in possession of a Primary Medical Cer- tificate. To qualify for a Primary Medical Certificate, an applicant must be permanently and severely disabled within the terms of the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Con- cessions) Regulations 1994 and satisfy one of the following conditions:

- be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both legs;

- be wholly without the use of one leg and almost wholly without the use of the other leg such that the applicant is severely restricted as to movement of the lower limbs;

- be without both hands or without both arms;

- be without one or both legs;

- be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both hands or arms and wholly or almost 38 14 December 2017 wholly without the use of one leg;

- have the medical condition of dwarfism and have serious difficulties of movement of the lower limbs.

I recognise the important role that the Scheme plays in expanding the mobility of citizens with disabilities. From time to time representations are received from individuals who feel they would benefit from the Scheme but do not qualify under the six criteria. While I have sympathy for these cases, given the scale and scope of the Scheme, I have no plans to expand the medical criteria beyond the six currently provided for in the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994.

14/12/2017WRC00500Tax Reliefs Costs

14/12/2017WRC0060063. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of extending the VRT rebate for electric vehicle purchase until 2019 to 2023, respectively. [54080/17]

14/12/2017WRC0070064. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of extending the VRT rebate for hybrid vehicle purchase until 2019 to 2023, respectively. [54081/17]

14/12/2017WRC00800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 63 and 64 together.

As I informed the Deputy in the reply to PQ 50963/17 on 29 November 2017 Revenue does not have information to enable it provide an accurate forecast of the future growth of electric and hybrid vehicles. As such it is not possible to determine the cost of extending the VRT rebate to electric and hybrid vehicles until 2019 or beyond that year.

Revenue have estimated the cost of the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) rebate for electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles in 2017 to be €5 million and €10 million respectively, giving a total estimated cost of €15 million for the year.

14/12/2017WRC00900Community Banking

14/12/2017WRC0100065. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has provided a report on the Sparkassen public banking model; and his views on whether there could be a role for such a public banking system to assist small and medium enterprises. [53818/17]

14/12/2017WRC0110067. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Finance his views on the introduction of a public bank model, similar to the German Sparkassen model; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53550/17]

14/12/2017WRC01200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 65 and 67 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department and the Department of Community and Rural Development, are responsible for fulfilling the Programme for a Partnership Government commitment to “thoroughly investigate the German Sparkassen model for the development of local public banks that operate within well-defined regions”.

Local public banking is where a State, or other public body, has ownership of a financial institution. Local public banks in Germany are called Sparkassen. They are only permitted

39 Questions - Written Answers to operate in specific geographic regions. Their aim is also not to maximise profits, but rather promote economic development and financial inclusion in the regional area in which they operate. Additionally, the business model of Sparkassen involves building close relationships with local SMEs.

The investigation of local public banking has consisted of a consultation process with stakeholders and interested parties. There has also been analysis of a detailed proposal on the Spar- kassen model and its possible implementation in Ireland. This proposal was put forward by Irish Rural Link and the Savings Banks Foundation for International Cooperation (SBFIC), the international development wing of the Sparkassen group. There have been a number of meetings between their representatives and my officials.

Officials in my Department have been working closely together with their colleagues in the Department of Community and Rural Development. They have now finalised the report on the findings of their investigation and I have received this report and am currently reviewing and considering it.

Along with my colleague, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring T.D., I will bring this report to Government, for approval.

The Deputy may wish to note that there are already significant Government measures in place to support access to finance by Irish SMEs. These include the Strategic Banking Corpora- tion of Ireland (SBCI), the Supporting SMEs Online Tool, the Microenterprise Loan Fund, Local Enterprise Offices, the Credit Review Office and the Credit and Counter Guarantee Schemes.

Additionally, my Department is working with other Government departments to develop tailored and innovative schemes to meet the evolving needs of Irish SMEs, such as the Agri- cultural Cashflow Support Loan Scheme and the Brexit Loan Scheme I announced in Budgets 2017 and 2018 respectively.

14/12/2017WRC01300VAT Rate Application

14/12/2017WRC0140066. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the way in which VAT is calculated on unredeemed gift vouchers; if a calculation has been done on VAT foregone; if so, the amount for 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53530/17]

14/12/2017WRC01500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As a consumption tax, VAT is a tax that is paid by the final consumer on the purchase of a good or service. Where a gift voucher is used by a consumer as consideration in respect of or in relation to the purchase of a good or service, VAT becomes chargeable on that purchase at the rate applicable for the particular good or service supplied, which could be 0%, 9%, 23%, or no VAT if an exemption applies. No loss of VAT arises where gift vouchers are not redeemed as no supply of goods or services has taken place.

Revenue has no estimate of the amount of VAT that would accrue to the Exchequer if unredeemed gift vouchers were in fact used.

Question No. 67 answered with Question No. 65.

14/12/2017WRC01700Help-To-Buy Scheme Data

14/12/2017WRC0180068. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the number of applications that 40 14 December 2017 have been received to date under the help-to-buy incentive scheme; and the number of applications that have been successful. [53559/17]

14/12/2017WRC01900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised that Revenue publishes a monthly update on the Help to Buy (HTB) scheme on the Revenue website. The most recent update to 30 November 2017 in respect of applications, both approved and pending, and claims made can be found at: http://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/information-about-revenue/ statistics/tax-expenditures/htb.aspx

Revenue’s published statistics at 30 November 2017 show the number of applications received at 11,985 and the number of approved applications at 8,568 or 71.5%. Compliant taxpayers who complete their HTB application are provided with an application number and a summary of the maximum relief available to them under the incentive. Revenue encourages prospective applicants to file any necessary tax returns, and resolve any outstanding issues, before making the HTB application. This reduces processing delays when a person makes their HTB application.

When an applicant has purchased a qualifying property from a qualifying contractor, or a self-builder has drawn down the first tranche of his or her mortgage on a qualifying property, the application can progress to the claim stage. Details of claims made and approved as well as the value of approved claims are also provided in the monthly statistics referenced above. To the end of November, 4,941 HTB claims had been made, of which 4,402 had been approved.

14/12/2017WRC02000Legislative Programme

14/12/2017WRC0210069. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53568/17]

14/12/2017WRC02200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy is aware the Oireachtas, when enacting legislation, in many instances provides a discretion to the relevant Minister in respect of the appropriate time to commence an Act, or certain provisions of an Act.

It was not possible to provide the details for all legislative provisions on the Statute Book. However I set out in the table details of legislative provisions passed by the Oireachtas since 1 January 2000 but which are not yet formally commenced and for which I, as Minister for Finance, have lead responsibility.

I set out in the following table details of legislative provisions passed by the Oireachtas since 1 January 2000 but which are not yet formally commenced and for which I, as Minister for Finance, have lead responsibility.

Act Provision Purpose 1. Finance Act 2016 s. 19 s. 19 relates to balancing allowances and balancing charges s. 28 s.28 relates to disposals of business or farm on “retirement”

41 Questions - Written Answers Act Provision Purpose 2. Finance Act 2015 s. 46 s. 46 relates to a requirement to make electronically a return or make a claim, submission or declaration for the purposes of any requirement of excise law. s. 76 s. 76 requires a property agent to include in a return of information the tax reference number of each property owner and the Local Property Tax (LPT) number in respect of each residential property. 3. Finance Act 2014 s. 74 s. 74 relates to relief from stamp duty for certain leases of farmland. 4. National Treasury s. 5 (in part) s. 5 relates to amendments Management Agency to Acts specified in Sched- (Amendment) Act ule 1 and Schedule 2 to the 2014 Act. s. 6(a) s. 6(a) provides for the repeal of the National Pen- sions Reserve Fund Act 2000 (other than s. 30). s. 6(d) s. 6(d) provides for the dissolution of the Investment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund and Miscella- neous Provisions Act 2009 (other than sections 9 and 11 to 13). s. 50 s. 50 provides for the dissolution of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission. s. 54 (in part) s. 54 relates to the transitional provisions in Sched- ule 4.

42 14 December 2017 Act Provision Purpose Schedule 1 Part 2, Item (1)(b) – relates to the deletion from Sched- ule 2 to the Ombudsman Act 1980 of “National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission”Part 4, Items (2)(b), 2(c), (4), 7(b), 7(c), 9(b), 9(c), 10(b), 12(b), 12(c), 12(d) – relate to amendments to the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997Part 8 – relates to the amendment of the Credit Institu- tions (Stabilisation) Act 2010 Schedule 2 Part 1, Item 1(b) – relates to amendments of the Ethics in Public Office (Prescribed Public Bodies, Designated Directorships of Public Bodies and Designated Positions in Public Bod- ies) Regulations 2004Part 2, Item 1(b) – relates to amendment to the Official Languages Act 2003 (Pub- lic Bodies) Regulations 2006Part 4 – relates to amendment of the Payments (Banks, Building Societies, Credit Unions and Sav- ings Banks) Regulations 2008Part 6, Items 1(a), 2(b) – relates to the amendment of the Payments (Insurance Undertakings) Regulations 2011 Schedule 4 Paragraph 15 – relating to the final accounts of the National Pensions Reserve Fund CommissionPara- graph 17 – relating to the final annual report of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission

43 Questions - Written Answers Act Provision Purpose 5. Strategic Banking s. 12 s. 12 relates to the alien- Corporation of Ire- ation of shares in the Strate- land Act 2014 gic Banking Corporation of Ireland by the Minister for Finance. 6. Finance Act (No. 2) s. 45 s. 45 relates to entrepreneur 2013 relief 7. Finance Act 2011 s. 49(1) (partial) s. 49(1) relates to betting duty and was commenced only insofar as s. 49(1)(a) to (j) 8. Value-Added Tax s. 14 (partial) s. 14 was commenced only Consolidation Act insofar as it applies to com- 2010 munity facilities under s. 14 (3) (a) (i) and not s. 14(3) (a)(ii). 9. Finance Act 2010 s. 27 s. 27 relates to the Mid- Shannon corridor tourism infrastructure investment scheme s. 163 s. 163 relates to an Amend- ment of the Bretton Woods Agreements Act 1957 10. Finance (No. 2) Act s. 6 (partial) s. 6 relates to Benefit-in- 2008 kind: emission based calculations s. 21 s. 21 relates to a scheme to facilitate removal and relocation of certain industrial facilities s. 64 s. 64 relates to a temporary exemption from registration for vehicles 11. Finance Act 2008 s. 26 s. 26 relates to Capital allowances for qualifying specialist palliative care units. 12. Finance Act 2006 s. 67(1)(partial) This section relates to Ton- nage Tax and was commenced only insofar as is applies to s. 67(1)(a)(i) and (1)(f)(i) s. 79(b) This section relates to rates of mineral oil tax 13. Central Bank and s. 10 (2) –(3) partial s. 10 (2) and (3) specify Financial Services certain amendments to be Authority of Ireland made as per Schedules 1 Act 2004 and 2.

44 14 December 2017 Act Provision Purpose Schedules 1 (partial) Items not commenced in Schedule 1:- Part 1, Item 1 insofar as it relates to s. 21(3)(b) of the Central Bank Act 1971.- Part 4, Item 15 insofar as it relates to Paragraphs 2 and 3 of the First Schedule to the Stock Exchange Act 1995.- Part 5, Item 14 insofar as it relates to paragraphs 2 and 3 of the First Schedule to the Insur- ance Intermediaries Act 1995.- Part 6, Item 1 insofar as it relates to s. 93(18) of the Consumer Credit Act 1995, and Item 2 insofar as it relates to s. 116(18) of the Consumer Credit Act 1995.- Part 7, Item 7 insofar as it relates to s. 99(2) of the Credit Union Act 1997, Item 8 insofar as it relates to Item 1(b) of Schedule 4 of the Credit Union Act 1997 and Item 9 which repeals Schedule 5 to the Credit Union Act 1997.- Part 8, Item 3 insofar as it relates to s. 28(3) of the Investor Compensation Act 1998, Item 4 insofar as it relates to s. 31(3) of the Investor Compensation Act 1998 and Item 5 insofar as it relates to paragraph 2(b) of Schedule 2 to the Investor Compensa- tion Act 1998. Schedule 2 (partial) Items not commenced in Schedule 2:- Part 9, Item 2 in respect of Regula- tion 104(7) of the UCITS Regulations 2003 (SI 211 of 2003).

45 Questions - Written Answers Act Provision Purpose Schedule 3 (partial) Items not commenced in Schedule 3:- Part 1, Item 1 which relates to s.3 of the Insurance Act 1936.- Part 14, Items 3-5 which relate to s. 125-127 of the Credit Union Act 1997. 14. Central Bank And s. 12 (partial) s.12 repeals s. 15 of the Financial Services Central Bank Act 1942. The Authority Of Ireland provision was commenced Act 2003 except insofar as it applied to s. 15 (4) of the Central Bank Act 1942 re transfer of employment within the Commission. s. 34(a) s. 34(a) relates to the repeal of the Central Bank Act 1961 Schedule 1 (partial) Schedule 1 repeals a number of enactments. Its commencement did not include item 4 of Part 6 of the schedule which repeals s. 54 of the Central Bank (Amendment) Act 1971, or Item 2 of Part 9 of the Schedule which repeals s. 15 (5), (6) and (8) of the Central Bank Act 1989. 15. Finance Act 2001 s. 156(2)(a) Rates for Mineral Oil Insurance Act 2000 s. 8 s. 8 has not been commenced insofar as it repeals s. 47 of the Insurance Act 1989. S. 47 of that Act was repealed by Section 7 and Schedule 1 of the Investors Compensation Act, 1998 (in so far as it imposes an obligation to hold a bond). 16. Finance Act 2000 s. 96 s. 96 relates to rebates in respect of hydrocarbon oils used in train engines

14/12/2017WRC02300Help-To-Buy Scheme Eligibility

14/12/2017WRC0240070. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 149 of 5 December 2017, if the help-to-buy scheme applies in this instance (details supplied). [53577/17]

46 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRC02500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that while the details supplied indicate that the property in question was a new building which was not used as a dwelling prior to 19 July 2016, it is not clear if it was suitable for use as a dwelling prior to that date. If the property was suitable for use as a dwelling prior to the relevant date, it will not qualify under the Help to Buy (HTB) scheme.

I am further advised by Revenue that, whilst they can provide general information in relation to the Help to Buy scheme, the question as to whether the specific individuals in respect of whom the Deputy’s Question refers qualify for the HTB on the property that they purchased in October 2017 is a matter to be determined by the Revenue office dealing with the tax affairs of those individuals following a claim from those individuals in respect of the property in question. On foot of such a claim, the relevant Revenue office will examine matters and make a determination based on the specific circumstances of the case.

14/12/2017WRC02600Legal Proceedings

14/12/2017WRC0270071. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the status of legal proceedings in which he and the Attorney General are cited as the defendants (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53581/17]

14/12/2017WRC02800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The proceedings to which you refer, are currently the subject of an appeal to the Court of Appeal by the Plaintiff and are listed before the President of the Court of Appeal on 14 December 2017 to fix a date for the hearing of the appeal. As these proceedings are before the Courts at present, I cannot comment on same.

14/12/2017WRC02900Stamp Duty

14/12/2017WRC0300072. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his plans to compensate private pension holders that had a pension levy imposed on their pension funds for a number of years as part of the jobs initiative of 2011; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this levy resulted in permanently reduced pensions for many current and future pensioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53584/17]

14/12/2017WRC03100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I take it the Deputy is referring to the stamp duty levies applying to the assets of funded pension arrangements introduced in 2011 to pay for the Jobs Initiative, the chargeable persons for which are the trustees of pension schemes and others responsible for the management of pension fund assets.

The stamp duty levy on pension schemes was introduced in the wake of the financial crash and at a time when the economy was in very serious difficulties. Something had to be done to preserve and boost jobs and it is an unavoidable fact that difficult economic situations require hard and very often unpopular decisions. All sectors of the economy had to contribute to the recovery plan and the levy was designed to claw back a small amount of the very generous tax reliefs that those contributing to pension arrangements had benefitted from over many years.

The original 0.6% stamp duty levy on pension fund assets ended in 2014. The additional levy of 0.15% which my predecessor introduced for 2014 and 2015, mainly to help continue to fund Jobs Initiative, also ended in 2015.

The position is that the equivalent value of all of the money raised from the stamp duty levy has been used to fund the wide range of measures introduced in the Jobs Initiative to protect

47 Questions - Written Answers existing jobs and to help create new jobs and the Initiative has been a success in this regard. The measures introduced include expenditure measures such as the JobBridge and Springboard schemes, as well as a number of tax and PRSI incentives such as the reduction in the VAT rate from 13.5% to 9% for the tourism and hospitality sectors and the temporary halving of the lower employer PRSI rate.

Under the legislation, the payment of the levy is treated as a necessary expense of a pension scheme and the trustees or insurer, as appropriate, are entitled where needed to adjust current or prospective benefits payable under a scheme to take account of the levy. It is up to the trustees or insurer to decide whether, when and how the levy should be passed on and to what extent, given the particular circumstances of the pension schemes for which they are responsible. However, the legislation also includes safeguards aimed at ensuring that should the option of reducing scheme benefits be taken, it must be applied in an equitable fashion across the different classes of scheme members that could include active, deferred and retired members. In no case may the reduction in an individual member’s or class of member’s benefits exceed the member’s or class of member’s share of the levy. Where pension scheme trustees or an insurer took the decision to treat the levy as an expense of the pension scheme, they would have adjusted current or prospective benefits payable to members under that scheme. The consequence of this treatment by the trustees or insurer could be a permanent reduction in members’ benefits.

The value of the funds raised by way of the levy have been used to protect and create jobs and this has helped to create the improving financial and economic position of the State. Tax- payers to whom the impact of the levy may have been passed on by the chargeable persons responsible for the payment of the levy (the pension scheme trustees, etc.) will benefit from the changes which my predecessor began in Budget 2015 and which have continued in subsequent Budgets to reduce the tax burden on low and middle income earners.

14/12/2017WRC03200Fiscal Data

14/12/2017WRC0330073. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if the figures given for net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021 include the changes announced in budget 2018; the amount by which they impacted on the net fiscal space from budget 2018 in the each of three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53732/17]

14/12/2017WRC0340074. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if the figures given for net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021 include the public pay agreement; the amount by which they impacted on the net fiscal space from the public pay agreement in each of the three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53733/17]

14/12/2017WRC0350075. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if the figures given for net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021 include the changes announced in mortgage interest relief; the amount by which they the impacted on the net fiscal space from the changes in the three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53734/17]

14/12/2017WRC0360076. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if the figures given for net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021 include indexation measures; the amount by which they impacted on the net fiscal space from indexation measures in the three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53735/17] 48 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRC0370077. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if the figures given for net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021 include the capital envelope of €4.3 billion outlined in exchequer capital envelopes 2018 to 2021; if these effects have been smoothed over the four years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53736/17]

14/12/2017WRC0380078. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if there are outstanding costs in relation to Irish Water that will affect the net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021; if changes made in 2017 in relation to Irish Water and water provision have been factored into the base for the net fiscal space; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53737/17]

14/12/2017WRC0390079. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, if demographic effects have been factored into the base for the calculation of the net fiscal space for 2019, 2020 and 2021; the amount of these effects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53738/17]

14/12/2017WRC0400080. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 74 of 30 November 2017, the way in which local property tax is accounted for in the base calculation of net fiscal space; the impact in each of the years 2019, 2020 and 2021 from local property tax; if the impact incorporates the expected revaluation of properties to take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53739/17]

14/12/2017WRC04100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 to 80, inclusive, together.

As I stated in my reply to PQ number 74 of 30/11/17, the Summer Economic Statement (SES) 2016 set out estimates of gross and net fiscal space over the forecast horizon. SES 2016 also presented an indicative split between expenditure and taxation uses of these amounts as well as the provision for contributions to the Rainy Day Fund (RDF). This was subsequently updated in the SES 2017 to take account of the decision to increase capital expenditure in 2019, 2020 and 2021 by €500m by reducing the planned contributions to the RDF by the same amount. The figures given were adjusted to take into account the arithmetic set out in the Budget 2018.

The current forecasts of general government revenue and expenditure include this allocation of fiscal space along with the measures introduced in Budget 2018.

The detailed estimates of gross and net fiscal space updated in SES 2017 resulted in additional unallocated fiscal space in each of 2019, 2020 and 2021, which was described as the margin of compliance. Based on Budget 2018 forecasts, indications are that the margin is expected to increase when the estimates of fiscal space are updated in the SES 2018 following the publication by the European Commission, in May of next year, of the reference rate, convergence margin and GDP deflator to be used for the calculations in relation to 2019.

Net fiscal space also takes account of discretionary revenue measures that increase or de- crease general government revenue such as, for example, mortgage interest relief. Further, the additional revenue generated from a political decision not to proceed with indexation of the tax bands is included in the discretionary revenue measures. The amounts set out in my previous response are inclusive of these.

Before addressing the specific issues raised, I want to stress the importance of the fiscal stance rather than the fiscal space. The economy is performing very strongly at present and full employment is now within sight. In these circumstances, it would be completely inappropriate to adopt pro-cyclical budgetary policies that simply add fuel to the fire. So, regardless of what

49 Questions - Written Answers fiscal space is available, it is my intention to do what is correct for the economy and I will not repeat the mistakes of the past. Steady, sustainable improvements in public services are what is required, not boom and bust.

Now, turning to specific issues.

Changes announced in Budget 2018 that are recognised in 2018 go into the expenditure and revenue base and have no further effect on fiscal space. However, as set out in Table 7 of the Expenditure Report 2018, the carryover impact of Budget 2018 measures is estimated at approximately €192 million. These costs would have to come out of the unallocated fiscal space in the 2019 forecasts. Tax carryover is €14m and would need to be met out of the €590m fiscal space available for tax reductions in 2019.

The Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA) has been ratified and the costs are included in the forecasts. The amounts are €370m in 2019, €340m in 2020, and €230m in 2021.

The tapering of mortgage interest relief (MIR), decided in Budget 2018, results in a revenue yield to the Exchequer that represents a positive discretionary revenue measure, increasing fiscal space, of €46m in 2019, €41m in 2020, and €37m in 2021. This is already included in the tax revenue forecasts.

The existing forecasts make provision for tax reductions of €590 million, €620 million and €610 million for 2019 – 2021 respectively.

If a decision is taken to index the income tax bands then the revenue reductions included in the forecasts could be utilised for this purpose without impacting the tax forecasts for fiscal space. If social welfare payments were to be indexed then the unallocated fiscal space within the current forecasts could be utilised in the first instance.

The capital envelope is included in the baseline forecasts. As such, when calculating fiscal space, the provision for smoothing of gross fixed capital formation applies.

Irish Water’s planned expenditure as per its 2015 business plan was incorporated in the general government forecasts for 2015-2021. The reform of the funding of Irish Water due to the Water Services Act 2017 is neutral in overall general government terms and thus has no impact on calculations of fiscal space in the years 2019 – 2021. Further details on these changes were set out in chapter 7 of the Economic and Fiscal Outlook document as part of Budget 2018.

The baseline forecasts include demographic effects. These amount to €500m in 2019, €480m in 2020, and €480m in 2021.

With regard to Local Property Tax (LPT), this policy is not settled and the revaluation date has been postponed to 2019. The position in 2019 and beyond is a matter of active consideration by Government. In that context, my Department and the Department of Housing, Plan- ning and Local Government in conjunction with the Revenue Commissioners will consider issues relating to the implementation of the recommendations in the Report prepared by Dr Don Thornhill. The Government will make its position clear so that households will know well in advance what its plans are for LPT. In that regard, the forecast for LPT as set out in Budget 2018 of €470 million for 2017 remains unchanged over the forecast horizon.

As a result, there are no discretionary revenue measures relating to LPT policy changes in 2018 and no assumptions can be made in this regard for 2019 and subsequent years until the policy process described above is completed. Accordingly, the impact of potential LPT changes on the forecasts of fiscal space out to 2021 is not included.

50 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRC04200State Claims Agency Data

14/12/2017WRC0430081. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number and value of claims paid out by the State Claims Agency in each the past five years; the number and value of claims that were settled out of court; the number and value of claims settled as a result of a court decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53740/17]

14/12/2017WRC04400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware, the NTMA is designated as the State Claims Agency (SCA) when performing the claims management and risk management functions designated to it under the National Treasury Management Agency Act 1990, as amended.

In answer to the Deputy’s question, I refer to material provided by the SCA and which is outlined in the tables. The material provided by the SCA covers the claims during the relevant period, and the report is correct as of 12 December 2017.

This information has been extracted from the National Incident Management System (NIMS). In reviewing the material the Deputy should note that:

- Table 1 shows the overall transactional cost of managing ongoing active claims and finalising claims from 2012 to 2016.

- Table 2 shows claims finalised for all State Authorities under the remit of the State Claims Agency (SCA) from 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2016 under the following case outcomes: Settlement Agreed, Case Discontinued/Claim Statute Barred, Indemnity Received, Outside SCA Remit, Case Dismissed and Court Award

Table 1: Overall transaction payments 2012 - 2016*

Transaction Payments (€’000)

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 100,726 139,218 131,622 224,229 251,513 *Transactions payments relate to the ongoing cost of the entire claims portfolio, regardless of the status of the claim.

Table 2: Claims Finalised and Paid Total 2012 – 2016

Number of Claims Finalised Paid Total (€’000)

Case Outcome 2012 2013* 2014 2015 2016 2012 2013* 2014 2015 2016 Claims Paid Total Total

Settlement 735 887 904 968 1,083 66,029 75,659 87,966 95,156 114,366 4,577 439,176 Agreed

Case Discon- 993 689 702 633 743 1,246 1,170 792 2,568 984 3,760 6,760 tinued/Claim Statute Barred

Indemnity 104 116 195 147 328 633 650 667 480 236 890 2,666 Received

Outside SCA 47 54 68 60 63 11 2 0 5 3 292 20 Remit

Case Dis- 30 47 29 33 36 459 1,010 €681 633 1,976 175 4,759 missed

Court Award 17 16 20 15 22 3,910 2,999 4,294 1,717 2,903 90 15,823

Total 1,926 1,809 1,918 1,856 2,275 72,286 81,490 94,401 100,559 120,467 9,784 469,203 *Please note that in 2013 there was one case that was “Settlement Agreed” after a Court Award appeal

Case Outcome Definitions: 51 Questions - Written Answers Settlement Agreed: A negotiated settlement has been agreed with the Plaintiff for damages or an Injuries Board award accepted. This category includes some claims that go to court and are either settled on the steps of the court or are settled during the court case but before the case concludes.

Indemnity Received: The SCA obtained a full indemnity, in respect of the claim, on behalf of the relevant State Authority from the Insurers of a negligent Third Party motorist.

Case Discontinued/Statute Barred: The claim against the State Authority was discontinued and/or withdrawn by the Plaintiff, or the Statute of Limitations rendered the claim Statute Barred and prevented the claim from proceeding.

Outside SCA Remit: These claims were not managed by the State Claims Agency.

Case Dismissed: A judge has dismissed a Plaintiff’s claim at the conclusion of the trial.

Court Award: A judge has made an award of damages to the Plaintiff at the conclusion of the trial.

Other Definitions:

National Incident Management System (NIMS)

Incidents (which include claims) are reported using the “National Incident Management System”. This is hosted by the State Claims Agency (SCA) for the HSE, other Healthcare enterprises and Delegated State Authorities. An incident can be a harmful Incident (Adverse Event), no harm incident, near miss, dangerous occurrence (reportable circumstance) or complaint. An Incident can relate to a person, property, crash/collision, dangerous occurrence or complaint.

Claim

A claim refers to notification of intention to seek compensation for personal injury and/or property damage where it is alleged the State was negligent. The application may be in the form of a letter of claim, an InjuriesBoard.ie application, or a written/oral request.

Paid total

Figures in respect of paid totals relate to the amount of money paid on a claim over its lifetime. This may include payments made in previous years . It includes damages, legal costs and other expert costs.

Claim Finalised

This refers to when a claim and all other matters associated with it have been agreed e.g. costs. There may still be some associated payments and reimbursements outstanding on finalised claims.

14/12/2017WRC04500State Banking Sector

14/12/2017WRC0460082. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his strategies for returning each of the State supported banks fully to the private sector; the timeframe for the full privatisa- tion of each of the banks; the individual value of the State’s shareholding in each of the banks; the specific parameters that have to be met before further share sales takes place; if he will be informing Dáil Éireann before proceeding with such sales; and if he will make a statement on 52 14 December 2017 the matter. [53741/17]

14/12/2017WRC04700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware, the State currently owns c. 71% of the shares in AIB, 14% of the shares in Bank of Ireland, and c. 75% of the shares in Permanent TSB. Following the IPO of AIB earlier this year all three of our bank investments are now listed on the main markets of the Irish and London stock exchanges, providing improved liquidity and marketability for the State’s shares.

The valuation of the State’s stake in each of the banks at the close of business 11 December 2017, was:

Bank Valuation AIB €10,468 million Bank of Ireland €1,041 million Permanent TSB €784 million Officials in my Department continue to monitor the performance of the banks, their share prices and equity markets more generally to determine the next sensible opportunity to realise value from our investments. It is important to point out that exiting our investments in a measured way that will optimise value for our citizens, will take a number of years, but I do not propose to set out a rigid timeline for disposal. To do so would potentially impact the value we can achieve. However as I have said before I believe that over the medium term we will recoup all of the money that we invested in these banks during the financial crisis.

In order to proceed with another sale of bank shares, I would need to be satisfied that the market was prepared to put a fair and reasonable value on the bank’s equity, bearing in mind its current performance, future prospects and the outlook for the economy, and I would do so on the advice of officials in my Department.

Unlike with the IPO of AIB earlier this year, any future sale of shares in any of our three banks, would likely be in the form of a “block” trade or accelerated book build as it is known in the markets. This is where a certain quantum of shares is sold into the market effectively overnight with very little advance notice given to investors. In these circumstances, signalling our intention to trade in advance could jeopardise the State’s ability to achieve the best price on the day.

Clearly in the case of AIB, in order for me to proceed with another disposal next year I would need to obtain Cabinet approval as there is a restriction in the ‘Programme for a Partner- ship Government’, preventing any further sales of shares in that bank before the end of 2018.

14/12/2017WRC04800Employment Investment Incentive Scheme Data

14/12/2017WRC0490083. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of entities availing of the EIIS; the number of which are private investors, SMEs and microenterprises; the average annual relief for each private investor, SME and microenterprise; the annual cost of the scheme; the number of persons employed as a direct result of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53742/17]

14/12/2017WRC0500084. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number and value of EIIS claims made each month for the past 24 months; the number and value of claims left outstanding each month for the past 24 months; the average time taken to process each claim; the way in which the EU state aid rules have affected the number of claims under the EIIS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53743/17] 53 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRC05100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 84 together.

The Employment and Investment Incentive (“EII”) applies to financing raised by micro, small and medium sized enterprises (being the company seeking to raise financing and all other associated companies). Where the enterprise and the investment meet certain conditions, it can raise financing from individual investors, who can claim tax relief in respect of the amount invested. Relief is granted in two tranches: the first portion of the relief (currently 30/40 and previously 31/41) is given at the time of investment while the second portion (currently 10/40 and previously 11/41) is given if, after 3 years, the company has increased employment or spent all of the money on qualifying research and development.

Details on EII from its introduction to 2016 are as follows:

Year Cost of EII Number of Number of Average in- Average in- €m companies investors vestment per vestment per company € investor € 2012 4 78 352 172,100 35,700 2013 12.7 190 1,028 222,800 37,100 2014 18.8 239 1,395 261,900 37,900 2015 22.2 279 1,530 265,500 40,600 2016 32.5 261 1,768 415,900 49,700 TOTALS 90.2 1,047 6,073 Details on the size of investments made under EII from its introduction to 2016 are as follows:The most recent complete figures for the EII scheme are for 2016. I am informed by Revenue that, in the year to the 30 November 2017, the scheme is seeing broadly the same levels of applications as 2016.

Amount 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Invested € 0-10,000 122 320 464 432 475 10,001- 57 216 353 345 384 20,000 20,001- 77 236 248 378 487 30,000 30,001- 16 72 108 102 100 40,000 40,001- 41 128 203 229 289 50,000 50,001- 18 32 46 47 52 60,000 60,001- 12 55 66 86 110 80,000 80,001- 10 30 73 92 115 100,000 100,001- 23 11 15 25 26 125,000 125,001- 0 15 44 61 85 150,000 54 14 December 2017 Amount 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Invested € 150,001- 0 12 22 17 23 250,000 >250,000 0 15 12 13 40 TOTALS 376 1,142 1,654 1,827 2,186 The changes made to EII by section 18 Finance Act 2015, to align the incentive with the Commission Regulation (EU) No 651/2014 of 17 June 2014, known as the General Block Exemption Regulation (“GBER”) increased the complexity of the scheme. In some respects, it broadened the category of companies who are eligible while in others it narrowed it; it introduced the requirement to consider all associated companies rather than the applicant company on a stand-alone basis; it introduced the requirement that relief under EII is only given for investments made on foot of a viable business plan and that follow-on investments are only eligible for relief where they were foreseen in the business plan first used to raise EII supported financing. This increase in complexity means that there are additional checks which must be carried out by Revenue prior to approving the relief.

The volume of claims (including claims for both the first and second tranches of relief and outline applications) dealt with in the last 24 months is:

EII 1 / EII 1A / EII outline applications received

2015 2016 2017 Total for three years. January N/A 52 69 February N/A 68 47 March N/A 54 60 April N/A 62 56 May N/A 64 64 June N/A 75 60 July N/A 59 66 August N/A 59 50 September N/A 72 58 October N/A 82 72 November N/A 66 74 December 41 46 - Totals 41 759 676 1,476 Processed 41 748 516 1,305 Rejected 4 65 77 146 On hand at year 0 11 171 end It is not possible to give an average time taken to issue a decision. Where a full application is received with all supporting documentation, a decision will issue more quickly than a case where additional information and clarifications must be sought. Equally, it takes less time to carry out the level of examination required in respect of a claim by a company with a simple corporate structure than a claim in respect of a complex corporate grouping. At present, in respect of the more complex cases, it can take up to three months for a reply to issue. A revised outline application form is now in use which should ensure that all applications received 55 Questions - Written Answers are accompanied by all supporting information required, and a revised EII claim form will be published, once it is translated into Irish. These two new forms should reduce the time taken to process each application.

I am also advised by Revenue that, as relief is granted at the taxpayer’s marginal rate of tax, the tax value of the amount invested depends on the circumstances of each the individual investor. As the tax relief is claimed in individual tax returns which are filed in October / November each year, it is not possible to calculate the cost per month.

I am further advised by Revenue that as the claims processed include a mixture of outline applications and actual claims, it is not possible to determine the value of these claims. While outline claims, for example, may include an indication of the amount of capital to be raised, this is only an indication and the actual value of the claim can only be determined when the actual claim is made. As such, Revenue does not record this information in relation to applications.

Companies in respect of which claims for relief under EII were first made in 2012 and 2013 that either increased employment or spent all of the funds raised on qualifying research and development are in a position to claim the balance of relief (the 11/41s in respect of those years). To date, Revenue have processed claims by 25 companies showing an additional 200 employments (with a mean increase of 8 employments for these companies) and by 19 companies who expended the full amount raised on qualifying research and development. These are preliminary figures as companies may still submit claims in respect of these periods.

Finally, as the Deputy will be aware from the recent debates during the passage of Finance Bill 2017, I indicated that a review of the EII scheme would be carried out in the course of 2018 to ensure, among other things, that the incentive continues to meet its objectives within the context of my Department’s Guidelines on Tax Expenditures and EU state-aid rules.

14/12/2017WRC05200Mortgage Interest Relief Application

14/12/2017WRC0530085. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of mortgage holders availing of mortgage interest relief, MIR; the number of mortgages availing of MIR; the cost in 2017 of MIR; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53744/17]

14/12/2017WRC0540086. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of mortgage holders that will still avail of MIR on 1 January 2018 in view of the changes announced in budget 2018; the number of mortgages that will still avail of MIR; the projected cost of MIR in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53745/17]

14/12/2017WRC05500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 86 together.

In Budget 2018, in fulfilment of a Programme for Government commitment, I provided for the extension of Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) into a further three-year phase-out period for the remaining recipients of the relief.

The process of phasing out MIR for homeowners has been under way since 2009. Relief has expired for qualifying mortgages taken out prior to 2004 and, with some limited exceptions, the relief ceased for new borrowings with effect from January 2013. Prior to Budget 2018, MIR was scheduled to cease entirely at the end of 2017 for all remaining relief holders.

The time-limited, tapered extension of MIR will allow mortgage holders time to adjust to the change in their mortgage repayments as the relief is gradually withdrawn over the next three

56 14 December 2017 years. Budget 2018 provides for the continuation of 75 per cent of the existing relief into 2018, 50 per cent into 2019 and 25 per cent into 2020.

I am advised by Revenue that, to date in 2017, there are 417,834 individuals availing of MIR across 286,325 loans. It is estimated that MIR will cost around €175 million in 2017.

The Budget 2018 changes to MIR act to extend the relief for all current recipients on a tapered basis. Therefore, the number of recipients in 2018 will be broadly similar to the number in 2017, with a slight downward trend as some qualifying mortgages are redeemed each year. It is projected that the cost of MIR in 2018 will be approximately €124 million.

14/12/2017WRC05600Ireland Strategic Investment Fund Investments

14/12/2017WRC0570087. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the annual return from ISIF in each of the years since its creation including 2017; the annual return from the global portfolio, domestic portfolio and directed portfolio respectively in each of the years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53746/17]

14/12/2017WRC05800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The NTMA have supplied the information requested by the Deputy in the form of the following table:

Directed TotalDiscretion- Irish Global ary 2015* 16.6% 1.5% 12.3% 0.1% 2016 -7.9% 2.9% 6.5% 2.2% YTD Sep 2017 14.7% 3.0% 3.4% 2.9% Annu- 8.0% 2.7% 7.9% 1.9% alised since inception *Inception 21 Dec 2014 to end 2015 Notes:

The Discretionary Portfolio seeks to generate a return, over the long term, in excess of the cost of Irish Government debt and has set a performance objective of +4% per annum. Over the limited time since inception, the annualised return of the Discretionary Portfolio has slightly trailed its target return. This is in line with expectations during the deployment phase of the Fund.

The Discretionary Portfolio contains a number of elements (treasury management, currency management etc.) that are shared between the Global and Irish sub-portfolio. The Global and Irish sub-portfolio components of the total Discretionary Portfolio return are therefore approximate.

The significant return generated in the first two years of the Irish portfolio was driven by some mature legacy Irish assets transferred from the ISIF’s predecessor, the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF).

During 2015, the NTMA transitioned the legacy assets from the NPRF to the ISIF, and the Global Portfolio was managed on an extremely prudent basis whilst the NTMA restructured the assets to reflect the Fund’s new mandate and investment horizon. 57 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRC05900Tax Data

14/12/2017WRC0600088. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the annual cost of the research and development tax credit in each year since 2012, including 2017; the number of multinationals claiming the credit in each of these years; the taxable profits of the multinationals that claimed the research and development credit in each of these years; the number of SMEs claiming the credit in each of these years; the taxable profits of the SMEs that claimed the research and development credit in each of these years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53747/17]

14/12/2017WRC06100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by the Revenue Commis- sioners that information in respect of the annual cost of the Research and Development (R&D) credit and the number of companies availing of the scheme is as follows:

Year 2015 2014 2013 2012 €m 707.9 553.3 421.4 281.9 No. of Compa- 1,535 1,570 1,576 1,543 nies This information is available at www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/documents/statistics/tax-expenditures/costs-tax-expenditures.pdf for all years up to 2015. Information in respect of 2016 is not yet available as the bulk of the returns have only recently been filed and will be analysed in the coming months.

The available data in respect of foreign owned multinational companies and SMEs (defined as companies with less than 250 employees) claiming the R&D credit in respect of taxable profits, and number of claimants, is as shown in the following table:

Foreign Owned Multinational Claimants of Research & Development Credit

Year Number Taxable Profits €m 2012 123 15,000 2013 116 11,723 2014 244 14,199 2015 244 19,516

SME (with less than 250 employees) Claimants Research & Development Credit

Year Number Taxable Profits €m 2012 1,360 879 2013 1,460 3,489 2014 1,431 1,967 2015 1,392 2,455

14/12/2017WRC06200Ireland Strategic Investment Fund Investments

14/12/2017WRC0630089. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount invested by Activate Capital in 2017; the average interest charged on the finance provided; the number of homes completed in each of the years since its creation including 2017; the way in which the rate of interest will compare to the new Home Building Finance Ireland rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53748/17]

58 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRC06400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The ISIF have informed me that the Ac- tivate Capital is a €500 million fund, which is financed through a €325 million loan note from the Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) and a €175 million loan note provided from KKR. It became operational in January 2016 with funding provided by Activate for 3,600 houses as at September 2017. As Activate’s purpose is to provide funding for development but not to act as developer itself, ISIF can only share information on funding committed, not homes completed. The amount invested by Activate in 2017 is commercially sensitive and cannot be disclosed.

The Activate base lending rate depends on the extent of leverage advanced and the risk characteristics of each specific project and would typically range from 6% to 10%. Activate may provide up to 90% of the funding requirement for an individual project, and this may be reflected in the lending terms, including the interest rate. As would be expected for projects of this nature, there may be a small participation in equity upside if projects are successful so that Activate, and by extension taxpayers, share in any gains alongside the project promoter.

Given Activate Capital has private shareholders, it would not be appropriate to disclose the Fund’s commercially sensitive information, including the interest rates charged on specific projects or the amount of drawdown in 2017. This approach is in line with standard commercial confidentiality principles applying to all private companies.

In relation to the rate of interest charged by Home Building Finance Ireland (HBFI), I am not in a position to confirm specific product terms and conditions, as these will be set by the board of HBFI in due course. I can confirm that HBFI will be lending on commercial, market- equivalent terms and conditions, which would depend on the risk profile of each individual project, the quality of collateral and the creditworthiness of the borrower.

14/12/2017WRC06500Tax Data

14/12/2017WRC0660090. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the shortfall in income tax compared with target as outlined in the November 2017 fiscal monitor; if he will provide an outturn versus target breakdown of income tax, by PAYE, self-assessment income tax, universal social charge and other classifications of income tax in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53749/17]

14/12/2017WRC06700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The position is that at end-November 2017, cumulative income tax receipts of €18,283 million were marginally down 1.4 per cent or €251 million against profile. This represents strong annual growth of 4.2 per cent or €738 million. Furthermore, it is also worth pointing out that there were significant one-off income tax payments in the comparable period last year, amounting to c. €300 million. Excluding, these the underlying income tax position is showing a year-on-year increase of 6.0 per cent or €1.0 billion.

The shortfall against target is across a range of income tax components. It is important to point out that the key income tax component, i.e. PAYE income tax, which accounts for around 65 per cent or €13.1 billion of total income tax receipts is broadly in-line with target at end-No- vember, down just €34 million or just under 0.3 per cent. This represents robust year-on-year growth of 8.8 per cent or €957 million which reflects solid wage growth and continued strong increases in full time employment.

In relation to USC, overall receipts are on target at end-November.

Of the remaining components of income tax, some relate to unearned income and are not directly impacted by employment or wage developments (e.g. Deposit Interest Retention Tax 59 Questions - Written Answers and Life Assurance Exit Tax). The majority of these components are below target at end- November, and therefore having a ‘drag’ on overall income tax receipts at end-November 2017.

The other main contributing factor to the overall shortfall is the Schedule D income tax provisional receipts, which are €119 million or 6.6 per cent below target but up 2.3 per cent in year-on-year terms.

The position is that the final Schedule D returns in respect of 2016 incomes were only due to be filed in November this year and Revenue is still in the process of reviewing these.

Schedule D income earners were also required to pay preliminary tax in respect of 2017 in October/November this year. However, the associated final returns are not required to be filed until October/November 2018. It will only be then that Revenue can fully advise why receipts from this cohort of income earners was below expectations.

The table provides a breakdown of the various income tax components on a Revenue net receipts basis at end-November against provisional collection targets. It is important to point out that the “Revenue net receipts” reported by the Revenue Commissioners represent matured tax liabilities and this reporting arrangement is more of an accounting concept. As a result, tax receipts reported on an Exchequer cash basis can differ from Revenue’s “net receipts” at any given time for accounting and timing reasons.

Tax-head End-November End-November Excess/Shortfall Excess/Shortfall 2017 Outturn 2017 Target €m €m % €m Income Tax 11,876 11,910 -34 -0.3 (PAYE) USC (PAYE & 3,430 3,430 0 0.0 Schedule D) Income Tax 1,666 1,785 -119 -6.6 (Schedule D) Life Assurance 302 413 -111 -26.9 Exit Tax /DIRT Other 1,035 987 +48 +4.8

14/12/2017WRD00200Knowledge Development Box

14/12/2017WRD0030091. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of companies availing of the knowledge development box; the cost of the programme in 2016; the number of MNEs obtaining the relief in 2016; the cost of these claims; the number of MNEs that were expected to claim the relief; the number of SMEs that claimed the relief; the cost of these claims; the number of SMEs that were expected to claim the relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53750/17]

14/12/2017WRD00400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by the Revenue Com- missioners, that the Knowledge Development Box (KDB) only applies for accounting periods commencing on or after 1 January 2016. The claimant company has a period of up to 24 months to make a claim for relief under the KDB.

A small number of companies (less than 10) whose accounting periods ended on or before 31 December 2016 have submitted claims for their 2016 tax returns. Due to taxpayer confidentiality, Revenue cannot comment on the size or nature of the claimant companies to date.

60 14 December 2017 However, the tax cost of these claims to-date is in the region of €5 million.

Given the large amount of documentation that is necessary, it is anticipated that more companies will make use of the 24 month time frame available. As such, more claims in respect of the year ended 31 December 2016 are expected to be made by September 2018.

14/12/2017WRD00500NAMA Portfolio

14/12/2017WRD0060092. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the status of the planned wind up of NAMA; the details of the portfolio that is remaining; the current estimate of the timeframe and the financial outturn from the wind up of NAMA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53751/17]

14/12/2017WRD00700126. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the status of the planned wind up of NAMA; the details of the portfolio that is remaining; the estimated timeframe; the estimated financial outturn from the wind up of NAMA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53791/17]

14/12/2017WRD00800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 126 together.

I wish to advise the Deputy that there has been no change to NAMA’s expectation that it will complete its work by 2020. The Agency announced in October that it had redeemed all of its €30.2bn in Senior Debt which was guaranteed by the State. However, notwithstanding the successful achievement of this primary and important objective, three years ahead of schedule, there is still a significant body of work yet to be completed by NAMA. Subject to current market conditions prevailing, this includes redemption of NAMA’s subordinated debt of €1.6 billion by March 2020 and completion of its Dublin Docklands SDZ and residential funding programmes. Successful completion of these major NAMA objectives will produce a significant economic and social contribution to the State, by addressing supply shortages.

I would also refer the Deputy to the announcement in my Budget statement in October of the establishment of Home Building Finance Ireland (HBFI), which is intended to increase the availability of debt funding on market terms to commercially viable residential development projects. In order to enable HBFI to get up and running quickly, it is my intention that it will draw on the expertise and experience in residential development funding that resides in NAMA.

The Deputy will be aware of NAMA’s expectation that, once its work is completed in 2020, it will return to the Exchequer a terminal surplus, currently estimated at €3 billion, subject to current market conditions prevailing. I am advised that NAMA’s residual loan portfolio will require intensive case management and asset management if the projected terminal surplus is to be realised and as such, I do not envisage setting a shorter timeframe which could adversely affect the amount of the surplus ultimately realised, which is very important for the State.

In relation to the NAMA portfolio, I would advise the Deputy that the latest information on the Agency’s remaining loan portfolio is available in the Agency’s Section 55 quarterly accounts for Quarter 2 of 2017 which is available on the NAMA website. As outlined in these accounts, the carrying value of NAMA’s loan portfolio at 30 June 2017, net of cumulative impairment, was €3.7 billion. It is expected that updated information will be available after I receive NAMA’s Section 55 report and accounts for Q3 in the coming weeks. I expect to lay that report before the Oireachtas as soon as possible thereafter.

61 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRD00900EU Budget Contribution

14/12/2017WRD0100093. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the expected impact Brexit will have on Ireland’s annual contribution to the EU budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53752/17]

14/12/2017WRD01100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware, negotiations are currently on-going. Therefore, as you can appreciate, it would not be appropriate for me to discuss those negotiations in detail at this point. Ireland wants a financial settlement reached in a fair and transparent manner on the basis of an agreed, objective methodology, that enables a positive future relationship between the EU and the UK and which reflects the UK’s legal and budgetary commitments under the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF).

While my Department currently forecasts Ireland’s contributions to the EU budget for 2021 to be €2,775 million, this figure is used primarily for illustrative purposes. It should also be noted that the 2021 forecast falls outside the current Multiannual Financial Framework and as such, should be treated with caution. Contribution estimates will be updated on an ongoing basis as new information becomes available.

14/12/2017WRD01200EU Budget Contribution

14/12/2017WRD0130094. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the gross contribution Ire- land has made to the European Union budget per annum from 2010 to 2016; the estimated contribution in 2017; the net benefit or contribution made in each year, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53753/17]

14/12/2017WRD01400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware and as outlined in the table, Ireland became a net contributor to the EU budget in 2014.

EU budget payments and public sector receipt data are published annually by the Depart- ment of Finance in the Budget Statistics publication. The public sector receipt measure captures funds under ‘shared management’ between national and EU authorities. In addition, the EU also pays some additional receipts directly to private beneficiaries under ‘centralised direct management’, most notably under the EU research funding programme.

For ease of reference, Ireland’s receipts from and contributions to the EU budget for the years 2010 to 2016 are set out in the following table:

Year Public Direct Management Total Receipts€m Payments to EU Net Receipts€m SectorReceipts€m Receipts* €m budget€m 2010 1885.3 80.4 1965.7 1352.4 613.3 2011 1950.2 80.2 2030.4 1349.7 680.7 2012 1837.7 108.8 1946.5 1393.2 553.3 2013 1672.9 113.0 1785.9 1726.2 59.7 2014 1419.7 83.9 1503.6 1685.5 -181.9 2015 1783.4 147.7 1931.1 1952.1 -21.0 2016 1622.1 156.0 1778.1 2022.8 -244.7 Source: Department of Finance

* - Direct Management - funds which are awarded and spent directly by the Commission. These are primarily research receipts.

Ireland’s contribution to the EU budget in 2017 is estimated to be c. €2,020 million. In

62 14 December 2017 relation to receipts for 2017, a final outturn will be published as part of the 2018 Budget Statis- tics report.

14/12/2017WRD01500IBRC Expenditure

14/12/2017WRD0160095. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount of fees paid to barristers, senior and junior counsel by IBRC since the appointment of the special liquidators; the name and amount paid to each recipient; the estimated total professional fees arising from the special liquidation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53754/17]

14/12/2017WRD01700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): A summary of the Special Liquidation fees, including legal fees to 31 December 2016 is available in the most recent progress update report which is available on the Department of Finance website http://www.finance.gov.ie/wp- content/uploads/2017/05/170505-IBRC-Progress-update-report-report_31-Dec-16.pdf

The Special Liquidators do not believe that it would be appropriate to provide the requested details regarding all Counsel engagements by IBRC since their appointment, particularly given the legally privileged, commercially sensitive and highly confidential nature of those engagements.

The Special Liquidators have informed me that an updated summary of the Special Liqui- dation fees, including legal fees to 31 December 2017 will be contained in the next progress update report which will be published in H1 2018.

I am further advised by the Special Liquidators that it is not possible for them at this time to confirm or estimate the final fees of the liquidation as there remains a number of tasks in the liquidation to be completed including the on-going management of c.175 legal cases, the completion of the creditor adjudication process, the management of the remaining loan book and the realisation of all remaining assets.

14/12/2017WRD01800Banking Sector Data

14/12/2017WRD0190096. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the Central Bank has a policy on whether bank ATM machines should dispense €10 notes to persons; the practice of retail banks here in dispensing €10 notes; if there is a policy as to whether the use of €20 notes or €50 notes are preferred in which an amount of €100, for example, is required; the breakdown of notes dispensed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53755/17]

14/12/2017WRD02000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am informed by the Central Bank that it has set targets for the banks to achieve in terms of issuance of €10, €20 and €50 notes from non-retailer ATMs by 2018, with a view to making lower denomination notes more available to cash users. These targets were calculated following a study of the requirements of consumers, given patterns of cash usage.

The targets are that 6-10% of all notes by volume are to be €10 notes by the end of 2018, 40-45% of all notes by volume are to be €20 notes, and 45-50% of all notes by volume are to be €50 notes. The latest available data, for Q3 2017, on amounts actually dispensed show that 8% of all notes are €10 notes, 36% of all notes are €20 notes, and 56% of all notes are €50 notes.

The Central Bank requests regular updates from the commercial banks on their progress towards achieving these targets and continues to challenge them to achieve the end-2018 targets in relation to the number of €10 and €20 banknotes being dispensed from their ATMs. This 63 Questions - Written Answers topic is a permanent agenda item at the National Cash Forum which is chaired by the Central Bank, and is also discussed at bilateral meetings with banks by the Central Bank.

14/12/2017WRD02100Mortgage Data

14/12/2017WRD0220097. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of unregulated loan owners in the Irish mortgage market for PDHs and BTLs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53756/17]

14/12/2017WRD02300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am informed by the Central Bank that under the category of Non-Bank Entities unregulated loan owners, there are 11,894 mortgage accounts outstanding for PDH with a balance of €2.2bn.

For BTLs, there are 5,729 mortgage accounts outstanding with a balance of €1.58bn.

The link to The Statistical Release for Residential Mortgage Arrears and Repossessions Statistics: Q2 2017 is below

https://www.centralbank.ie/docs/default-source/statistics/data-and-analysis/credit-and- banking-statistics/mortgage-arrears/residential-mortgage-arrears-and-repossessions-statistics- june-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=7

Non-bank entities comprise regulated retail credit firms and unregulated loan owners. Un- regulated loans owners include owners of mortgages not regulated by the Central Bank of Ire- land, that have purchased mortgage loans secured on Irish residential properties.

The mortgage arrears figures published relate to data reported to the Central Bank of Ire- land by all mortgage lenders authorised by the Central Bank. This includes credit institutions (banks) and retail credit firms. In addition, a number of other entities that have purchased loans secured on Irish residential properties from banks also report to the Bank.

Data reported by mortgage lenders listed on the register of credit institutions (http://registers.centralbank.ie/DownloadsPage.aspx) are classified as banks in our release.

Data reported by mortgage lenders included in the register of retail credit firms (http://registers.centralbank.ie/DownloadsPage.aspx) are classified in the non-bank category. All other reporting entities are also classified as non-banks.

14/12/2017WRD02400Small and Medium Enterprises Data

14/12/2017WRD0250098. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of SME loans owned by unregulated loan owners; the number of unregulated loan owners in the market here that own SME loans; the number of SME loans owned by unregulated loan owners that are in arrears up to 90 days, between 90 and 180 days and between 180 and 360 days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53757/17]

14/12/2017WRD02600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been informed by the Central Bank that it does not routinely publish specific data on entities who are not regulated by the Central Bank and it is therefore not possible to provide the numbers requested by the Deputy.

I would however refer the Deputy to the Report on Mortgage Arrears which the Central Bank provided to the Minister for Finance in June 2016 (http://www.finance.gov.ie/what-we-

64 14 December 2017 do/banking-financial-services/publications/reports-research/report-mortgage-arrears-2016) which provides details of the total number of loans/value of loans owned by unregulated entities as at the end of June 2016.

Loans can be sold by regulated entities to entities that are not regulated by the Central Bank. In July 2015, the Consumer Protection (Regulation of Credit Servicing) Act 2015 (“the 2015 Act”) was introduced to fill the consumer protection gap where loans are sold by the original lender to an unregulated firm.

Under the 2015 Act, if the firm which bought loans from the original lender is an unregulated firm, then the loans must be serviced by a ‘credit servicing firm’ (Credit Servicing Firms are typically firms that manage or administer credit agreements such as mortgages or other loans on behalf of unregulated entities). Credit Servicing Firms are required to obtain authorisation from the Central Bank in order to conduct credit servicing activities as defined in the 2015 Act. A register of firms who are authorised to provide credit servicing (including on a transitional basis) is available on the Central Bank website.

Credit servicing firms must act in accordance with the requirements of Irish financial services law that applies to ‘regulated financial service providers’. This ensures that consumers, whose loans are sold to another firm, maintain the same regulatory protections that they had prior to the sale, including under the various statutory Codes of Conduct issued by the Central Bank.

14/12/2017WRD02700Mortality Data

14/12/2017WRD0280099. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of residential mortgages here that are classified as sub-prime; the number of sub-prime lenders currently operating in the market; the value of sub prime mortgages outstanding; the rate of arrears on these mortgages; the actions specific to the sub-prime sector which are being taken to address arrears; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53758/17]

14/12/2017WRD02900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am informed by the Central Bank that there is no such regulated category as ‘sub-prime lender’. Retail Credit Firms are authorised to provide credit, in the form of cash loans, directly to individuals (these firms are not licensed to accept deposits). Some firms authorised in this category are mortgage lenders. Retail Credit Firms have been subject to regulation by the Central Bank since 1 February 2008. A register of all Retail Credit Firms is available on the Central Bank website at the following link:

http://registers.centralbank.ie/DownloadsPage.aspx .

Retail Credit Firms are subject to the Central Bank’s Consumer Protection framework, including the statutory Consumer Protection Code and the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears (‘CCMA’).

The CCMA sets out requirements for all mortgage lenders, including Retail Credit Firms, dealing with borrowers in arrears or pre-arrears on a mortgage loan which is secured by their primary residence (as defined). It provides a strong consumer protection framework to ensure that borrowers struggling to keep up mortgage repayments are treated in a fair and transparent manner by their lender and that long term resolution is sought by lenders with each of their borrowers.

The Central Bank engages with Retail Credit Firms in relation to their treatment of borrowers under the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP), as provided for in the CCMA. The 65 Questions - Written Answers MARP sets out the steps which lenders must follow:

Step 1: Communicate with borrower;

Step 2: Gather financial information;

Step 3: Assess the borrowers circumstances; and

Step 4: Propose a resolution.

The Central Bank monitors the level of short term and long term mortgage arrears and the level of restructures in relation to, inter alia, non-bank entities. The Central Bank’s Residential Mortgage Arrears and Repossessions Statistics detail figures on ‘Residential Mortgages held by Non-Bank Entities’. The latest figures relate to Q2, 2017 and were published on 12 Septem- ber 2017 This data is available at the following link:

14/12/2017WRD03000Central Bank of Ireland Data

14/12/2017WRD03100100. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he or the Central Bank has a record of the number of commercial loans that have been sold on by the original underwriter; if so, the details of same; if the Central Bank must be notified when a commercial loan has been sold on; his views on the fact that a commercial loan could be sold on to a competitor of the borrowers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53759/17]

14/12/2017WRD03200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been informed by the Central Bank that it does not maintain a record of the number of commercial loans sold on by the original underwriter. Portfolio sales are considered as part of normal supervisory engagement where they are sufficiently material.

Typically with an asset loan sale, in circumstances where there are permissible contractual terms which allow the sale of the loan, the Central Bank would be aware of the transaction planning, and would be notified for good order by the bank once the transaction is completed. The Central Bank monitors the capital and financial implications of an asset sale on the bank meeting its regulatory obligations.

The Deputy will be aware that legislation and regulations have been implemented by the Oireachtas and Central Bank to protect SMEs when dealing with regulated and unregulated firms. Insofar as a loan is captured by the Consumer Protection (Regulation of Credit Servicing Firms) Act 2015, then the protections of that Act will apply. These include the protections of Irish financial services legislation, including Central Bank Codes where they apply for the type of loan in question. Also, under Provision 6.1 (c) of the Authorisation Requirements and Stan- dards for Credit Servicing Firms 2015, a credit servicing firm is required to notify the Central Bank in advance of a new loan portfolio or client being taken on which results in it conducting credit servicing activities covered by the Act.

Credit Servicing Firms are now subject to the provisions of Irish financial services law that apply to ‘regulated financial service providers’. This ensures that relevant borrowers, whose loans are sold to third parties, maintain the same regulatory protections they had prior to the sale, including under the various statutory codes issued by the Central Bank of Ireland.

66 14 December 2017 Under the 2015 Act, therefore, purchasers of loan books must either be regulated by the Central Bank themselves or else the loans must be serviced by a credit servicing firm who is regulated by the Central Bank. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the transfer of a loan from one entity to another does not change the terms of the contract or the borrower’s rights and obligations under the original contract.

Also, following a review in 2015 of the Central Bank Code of Conduct for Business Lend- ing to Small and Medium Sized Enterprises, the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (Section 48) (Lending to Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) Regulations 2015 were made. They came into operation for regulated financial service providers (other than credit unions) on 1 July 2016 and, in the case of credit unions, on 1 January 2017.

14/12/2017WRD03300Credit Register Establishment

14/12/2017WRD03400101. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance when the central credit register will be fully operational; the steps that have been taken to date in its implementation; if personal contract plans and hire purchase agreements will be included on the register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53760/17]

14/12/2017WRD03500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Central Bank has advised me that the Central Credit Register (CCR) is being implemented on a phased basis with phase 1 focusing on lending to consumers and phase 2 focusing on moneylenders, local authorities and business lending. The period for data submission by lenders for phase 1 runs from 30 June 2017 to 31 December 2017. During this period, technical and operational changes will be implemented by lenders and data quality assurance testing will be carried out. This is to ensure that the data submitted to the CCR is of sufficient quality to allow the CCR match personal and credit information, and subject to data quality assurance, to produce credit reports in early 2018.

The period for data submission by phase 2 lenders will run from 30 March 2018 to 30 Sep- tember 2018. During this phase local authorities, moneylenders and business loans will submit data to the CCR.

In respect of phase 1, the Central Bank has advised me that the majority of lenders are progressing well in terms of their obligations to report information to the CCR.

Since the enactment of the Credit Reporting Act 2013, the Central Bank has carried out substantial work to develop a robust CCR where the Bank has:

- undertaken a procurement process to select a partner and solutions to support the CCR;

- continuously engaged with representative industry groups to explain its approach and gain an understanding of the likely implications of the CCR for lenders;

- designed the CCR solution and processes in conjunction with CRIF Ireland Ltd;

- published a public consultation paper and Feedback Statement;

- completed a Privacy Impact Assessment;

- following consultation with the Data Protection Commissioner and with my consent, made necessary regulations under the Credit Reporting Act 2013;

- published guidance documents and technical manuals explaining the obligations on lenders.

67 Questions - Written Answers In early 2017 the Central Bank became aware of an issue with the Credit Reporting Act 2013 regarding the wording used to exclude trade credit from being reported to the CCR which unintentionally also excluded hire-purchase and similar type loans where the lender remains the owner of the goods financed. Therefore, as things stand information on hire purchase agreements and similar type loans cannot be collected at this time. However, my Department is currently considering ways to address this lacuna, and it is hoped that it will be in a position to bring forward a legislative proposal to deal with the issue early in the new year.

14/12/2017WRD03600Personal Contract Plans

14/12/2017WRD03700102. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of personal contract plan providers, PCPs, here; the number and value of PCPs currently in existence; the number and value of PCPs that are behind on their payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53761/17]

14/12/2017WRD03800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Personal Contract Plans (PCP) are a form of Hire Purchase and both the Central Bank and the Competition and Consumer Protec- tion Commission (CCPC) have certain functions and legal powers in relation to the provision of hire-purchase agreements.

The CCPC is responsible under the Consumer Credit Act 1995, for the authorisation of credit intermediaries, some of whom may sell PCPs to consumers on behalf of a finance company. I have consulted with the CCPC on this issue and have been informed that in 2017 the CCPC undertook the first comprehensive study of the PCP market in the State. As part of its study the CCPC issued detailed questionnaires to all the financial institutions that underwrite PCP finance in the State. This allowed the CCPC to compile, for the first time, primary data relating to the number and value of PCP finance contracts issued. The following information has been provided by the CCPC on foot of this research.

In the State PCP finance is underwritten by standard financial institutions, manufacturer banks, and special purpose institutions which exclusively offer motor finance. Up to 1 Au- gust 2017 there were 6 financial institutions underwriting PCP contracts: Allied Irish Bank (AIB), Bank of Ireland Leasing Ltd.t/a Ford Credit, Bank of Ireland Finance, Volkswagen Bank GMBH Branch Ireland, RCI Bank and Services, First Auto Finance Ireland Limited, BMW Financial Services (Ireland) DAC trading as BMW Financial Services. It has been reported that Toyota has recently established its own manufacturing bank in Ireland.

The majority of PCP contracts (88%) are for new cars.

The following table outlines the total number of PCPs issued by year for both new and second hand cars and the total value (€) of PCP finance by year for both new and second hand cars for 2015, 2016 and for 2017 up to 1 August 2017:

Year 2015 2016 2017 (to 1Aug) Number of PCPs 21,045 32,739 24,837 issued Total value (€m) of €488 €805 €619 PCP finance The following Table summaries the level of arrears and defaults on PCP finance for 2015, 2016 and for 2017 up to 1 August 2017:

68 14 December 2017 Year 2015 2016 2017 (to 1 Aug) Arrears 1.1% 1.2% 2.0% Defaults 0.4% 0.3% 0.2%

14/12/2017WRD03900Financial Services Regulation

14/12/2017WRD04000103. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of payday loan providers here; the number and value of loans outstanding to payday loan providers; the number and value of payday loans in arrears; the average interest rate on payday loans; the average interest rate on payday loans in arrears; if there are codes of conduct set out by the Central Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53762/17]

14/12/2017WRD04100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy is aware, anyone wishing to engage in the business of moneylending requires a licence from the Central Bank in accordance with the Consumer Credit Act 1995 and this licence must be renewed every year.

Consumers of licensed moneylenders are protected by a range of provisions that moneylenders must adhere to, including but not limited to, the Consumer Protection Code for Li- censed Moneylenders, the European Communities (Consumer Credit Agreements Regulations) 2010 and the Act. A licensed moneylender carries on the business of moneylending under the specific terms of the licence granted by the Central Bank.

Moneylending, as defined in the Consumer Credit Act 1995, is the practice of providing credit to customers on foot of a moneylending agreement which is, in essence, where the total cost of credit is in excess of an annual percentage rate (APR) of 23% or the agreement is concluded away from the business premises of the moneylender.

Although a number of firms have approached the Central Bank in relation to offering payday loans in the Irish market, the Central Bank has a robust licencing process in place and no such business model has been licensed by the Central Bank. The Central Bank assesses every request for authorisation as a moneylender in accordance with the relevant legislation and best practice.

Payday lenders will not be able to passport their services into Ireland without seeking authorisation from the Central Bank. The Central Bank will continue to monitor the licensed moneylender sector closely and to take action where necessary to protect borrowers’ interests.

14/12/2017WRD04200Legislative Programme

14/12/2017WRD04300104. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if there will be a second Finance Bill; if so, when it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53763/17]

14/12/2017WRD04400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): At this point I have no plans for a second Finance Bill as part of the Budget 2018 process.

14/12/2017WRD04500Revenue Commissioners Data

14/12/2017WRD04600105. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount owed by businesses to the Revenue Commissioners under each tax heading; the age profile of the arrears; and

69 Questions - Written Answers the steps the Revenue Commissioners are taking to engage with businesses currently struggling to meet their tax liabilities. [53764/17]

14/12/2017WRD04700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that it reports on the tax debt as at 31 March each year. On 31 March 2017 the total outstanding debt was €1,944m. However, this figure included €1,105m of debt under appeal to the Tax Appeals Commission and €83m of insolvency debt.

The remaining €756m is regarded as a more accurate indicator of the actual debt that was available to Revenue for collection at 31 March 2017. Of this amount, €328m was under active enforcement and €116m was the subject of phased payment arrangements. The remaining €312m was at various other stages of the debt collection cycle, for example at ‘Demand’ stage or ‘Negotiation’ stage. The table provides an aged analysis breakdown of the ‘Debt Available for Collection’ amount due under each tax heading at 31 March 2017 for the Deputy’s information.

Revenue also confirmed to me that it continues to actively encourage viable businesses experiencing cash-flow or payment difficulties to make contact as soon as such problems start to arise to find an agreed way through the difficulties and restore timely tax payment compliance as quickly as possible. The €116m being collected under phased payment arrangements at 31 March 2017 related to more than 12,000 individual taxpayers and businesses and is a clear confirmation of Revenue’s commitment in this regard.

Age Analysis of Debt Available for Collection by Year of Assessment as at 31/03/2017 Total €M

Year Income Corpo- Capital Pay Pay Uni- Rel- Value Capital Total Tax ration Gains As You Related versal evant Added Acqui- Tax Tax Earn Social Social Con- Tax sitions Insur- Charge tract Tax ance Tax to 95 4 37 5 7 0 7 50 5 211 2008 2009 17 1 5 2 3 0 1 16 1 44 2010 21 0 2 2 4 0 0 16 1 47 2011 26 1 1 4 4 0 0 18 1 56 2012 26 1 2 6 4 0 0 21 3 63 2013 30 2 2 4 5 2 0 22 3 71 2014 45 6 2 6 9 3 0 29 4 106 2015 98 6 8 9 14 4 0 40 5 185 2016 16 12 3 70 71 20 4 -233* 9 -28 Totals 374 33 62 108 121 30 13 -21 34 755 Please note that rounding may affect totals.

*The negative figure in respect of the 2016 VAT debt is a timing issue caused by the volume of credits (repayments) hitting the system at the point of measurement. The figure regularises as the repayments are processed.

14/12/2017WRD04800Central Bank of Ireland Staff

14/12/2017WRD04900106. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of contract outsourced staff employed at the Central Bank; the roles they perform; the daily salary of each,

70 14 December 2017 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53765/17]

14/12/2017WRD05000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): It was not possible for the Central Bank of Ireland to provide the information sought in the time available and, therefore, I will make arrangements to provide the information in line with Standing Orders.

14/12/2017WRD05100Small and Medium Enterprises Debt

14/12/2017WRD05200107. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount of small and medium enterprise debt outstanding from the latest available data; the amount which is in arrears; the amount classified as non-performing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53766/17]

14/12/2017WRD05300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been informed by the Central Bank that as set out in the Business Credit and Deposits statistical Table A.14.1, available on the website of the Central Bank, the level of outstanding SME debt as at end-Q2 2017 is €27,504 million.

The latest data on the share of outstanding SME loan balances in default (i.e. default rate) across the main economic sectors, and across different regions, is set out on page 7 of the Cen- tral Bank’s SME Market Report H1 2017. On average the default rate is circa 20 per cent with variations between sectors.

14/12/2017WRD05400Central Bank of Ireland Data

14/12/2017WRD05500108. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the fines greater than €100,000 imposed by the Central Bank on financial institutions over the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53767/17]

14/12/2017WRD05600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Central Bank of Ireland has imposed fines greater than €100,000 on a number of regulated financial service providers over the past three years. T here were four such fines in 2015, seven in 2016, and five in 2017 to date. T hese are detailed in the following table provided by the Central Bank:

Financial Institution Year Fine 1 Intesa Sanpaolo Life dac 2017 €1,000,000 2 Bank of Ireland 2017 €3,150,000 3 AIB 2017 €2,275,000 4 Drimnagh Credit Union 2017 €125,000 5 Kinsale Capital Management 2017 €275,000 1 Springboard Mortgages Lim- 2016 €4,500,000 ited (trading as Springboard Mortgages) 2 Ulster Bank Ireland DAC 2016 €3,325,000 (formerly Ulster Bank Ireland Limited) 3 Capita Life and Pensions Ser- 2016 €1,150,000 vices (Ireland) Limited 4 KBC Bank Ireland plc 2016 €1,400,000

71 Questions - Written Answers Financial Institution Year Fine 5 Axa Insurance 2016 €675,000 6 New Ireland Assurance 2016 €650,000 7 Arch Reinsurance Europe 2016 €275,000 Underwriting dac 1 Computershare Investor Ser- 2015 €322,500 vices Limited 2 Octagon Online Services 2015 €105,000 3 Irish Nationwide Building 2015 €5,000,000 Society 4 Western Union Payment Ser- 2015 €1,750,000 vices Ireland Limited

14/12/2017WRD05700Departmental Staff Data

14/12/2017WRD05800109. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the staffing levels in his Department by division; the staffing levels in 2015 and 2016; the number of vacancies by division; the length of time these vacancies have been open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53774/17]

14/12/2017WRD05900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I wish to inform the Deputy that the structure of the Department of Finance has changed over the years and I am answering the Parliamentary Question as per the structure of the Department now. The staffing levels in the Department of Finance by Division in 2017 (as at end Nov.), 2016 and 2015 are set out in the following table as Full Time Equivalents:

Division 2017 (as at end Nov.) 2016 2015 Economic 34.7 27.6 23.8 Tax Policy 35.83 34.3 32.5 EU & International 22.9 21.7 19.4 Banking 28.13 24.93 21.93 Funds, Insurance, 30.8 30.6 27.5 Markets & Pensions Shareholding & Fi- 17.5 18.5 19.5 nancial Advisory International Finance 36.47 33.67 29.77 Human Resources 11 12 13 Facilities Manage- 37 38 40 ment Unit Corporate Affairs 32.3 22 22 (including Secretary General’s and Minis- ters Offices) Exchequer, Accounts 26.5 37 36 Total 313.13 300.3 285.4 Please note that some sections in the Department provide a shared service to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

With regard to vacancies in the Department of Finance, the Department is committed to the 72 14 December 2017 Civil Service Workforce Planning process and has a robust Recruitment and Selection policy which feeds into an ongoing Resource Review conducted and directed by the Executive Board. This process identifies on a case by case basis, both current and upcoming resource requirements in the Department and the best method to fill each vacancy. The timescale for filling vacancies from open or interdepartmental competitions varies and is dependent on the availability of panels from the Public Appointments Service (PAS). The absence of a PAS panel will generally delay the filling of a vacancy. Internally run competitions in the Department generally have a quicker turnaround time. To date in 2017 62 new staff have joined the Department and we currently have 9 vacancies as follows: 1 Principal Officer, 2 Assistant Principal Officers, 3 Executive Officers and 3 Clerical Officers. We are expecting to receive candidates to fill these posts in early January 2018.

14/12/2017WRD06000Revenue Commissioners Staff

14/12/2017WRD06100110. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the staffing levels in the Revenue Commissioners by functional area; the staffing levels in 2015 and 2016; the number of vacancies by functional area; the length of time these vacancies have been open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53775/17]

14/12/2017WRD06200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that it had a serving full-time equivalent permanent staff number of 6,015 at end November 2017. Rev- enue’s 2017 multi-annual budget provides for a serving level of 6,014, the table below provides a breakdown of staff in Revenue by Region/Division.

The majority of Regions/Divisions in Revenue are fully staffed within the overall resources available. However, there are a limited number of critical posts to be filled in their Information & Communications Technology and Logistics Division and Large Cases Division, Revenue has advised that it is making arrangements to fill these critical posts as soon as possible.

Table: Revenue Regional/Divisional Serving Staff (Full-time equivalent (FTE)

Region/Division Serving FTE Serving FTE Serving FTE 31.12.2015 31.12.2016 30.11.2017 Board (including 7.0 8.0 7.0 admin support) Collector Generals 1,027.9 1,023.2 1,027.2 Office Border Midlands and 812.3 876.5 876.2 West Region Dublin Region 1,230.4 1,227.4 1,261.1 East and South East 697.2 726.1 701.5 Region South West Region 622.7 655.7 650.4 Corporate Services 178.2 183.8 196.2 Division Planning Division 116.6 135.1 143.2 Revenue Solicitor’s 191.3 184.6 186.1 Office and Investiga- tions and Prosecu- tions Division

73 Questions - Written Answers Region/Division Serving FTE Serving FTE Serving FTE 31.12.2015 31.12.2016 30.11.2017 Information and 376.3 393.6 414.7 Communications Technology and Logistics Corporate Affairs 155.4 167.1 167.4 and Customs Divi- sion Large Cases Divi- 216.4 236.7 229.3 sion Legislation and Poli- 40.427.628.845.5 41.328.729.845.3 42.331.932.445.7 cy DivisionsBusiness TaxesPersonal Tax- esInternational Tax- Indirect Taxes Other (Seconded) 6.0 5.0 2.0 Total Serving 5,780 5,968 6,015 Multi Annual FTE 5,874 5,924 6,014 Provision

14/12/2017WRD06300National Treasury Management Agency Staff

14/12/2017WRD06400111. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the staffing levels currently in the NTMA by functional area; the staffing levels in 2015 and 2016; the number of vacancies by functional area; the length of time these vacancies have been open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53776/17]

14/12/2017WRD06500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The National Treasury Management Agency have advised me regarding the issues raised in the Deputy’s question and have supplied the table below showing the number of staff employed by functional area, staffing levels as at end 2015, 2016 and 2017, the number of vacancies and the average length of time that these vacancies have been open:

Summary

as at as at as at Current Open Average No. 31/12/2015 31/12/2016 30/11/2017 Positions of Weeks Open State 109 128 136 5 7 Claims Agen- cy NDFA 60 61 66 3 3 ISIF 36 41 44 1 24 Funding 21 20 24 & Debt Man- agement NewERA 19 19 22

74 14 December 2017 as at as at as at Current Open Average No. 31/12/2015 31/12/2016 30/11/2017 Positions of Weeks Open Finance, 121 125 141 1 3 Technology and Opera- tions Corporate 53 57 64 1 18 Services NTMA Staff 362 331 293 3 9 Assigned to NAMA, SBCI & Dept of Finance Headcount 781 782 790 14

14/12/2017WRD06600Central Bank of Ireland Staff

14/12/2017WRD06700112. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the staffing levels in the Central Bank by functional area; the staffing levels in 2015 and 2016; the number of vacancies by functional area; the length of time these vacancies have been open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53777/17]

14/12/2017WRD06800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Central Bank has provided the following tables which outline the staffing levels by functional area in 2015 and 2016, and the staffing levels and open vacancies by functional area in 2017.

2017

Pillar Directorate Active FTE # Open roles Average time to hire (weeks) CENTRAL CORPORATE 140.8 14 9.30 BANKING AFFAIRS ECONOMICS 88.1 5 9.30 FINANCIAL 87.2 2 7.00 OPERATIONS FINANCIAL 72.3 9 7.70 STABILITY SEM 7 1 11.00 CENTRAL 395.4 31 8.86 BANKING Total FINANCIAL CONSUMER 104.9 10 10.00 CONDUCT PROTECTION ENFORCE- 125.8 7 9.20 MENT POLICY & 76.6 9 12.10 RISK

75 Questions - Written Answers Pillar Directorate Active FTE # Open roles Average time to hire (weeks) SECURITIES 89.2 19 12.00 AND MAR- KETS SUPER- VISION SEM 5 2 5.70 FINANCIAL 401.5 47 9.80 CONDUCT Total OPERATIONS CHIEF INFOR- 121.9 9 10.60 MATION OF- FICER CHIEF OPERA- 101 3 7.00 TIONS OFFI- CER DIRECT REPORTS CURRENCY 207 2 5.70 & FACILITIES MANAGE- MENT HUMAN RE- 60.5 1 5.80 SOURCES SEM 4 3 5.70 OPERATIONS 494.4 18 6.96 Total PRUDENTIAL ASSET MAN- 86.7 10 6.30 REGULATION AGEMENT SUPERVISION CREDIT IN- 209 10 8.60 STITUTIONS SUPERVISION INSURANCE 138.8 9 5.00 SUPERVISION SEM 3 0 0.00 PRUDENTIAL 437.5 29 4.98 REGULATION Total GRADUATE GRADUATE 7 0.00 DEVELOP- DEVELOP- MENT PRO- MENT PRO- GRAMME GRAMME GRADUATE 7 0 0.00 DEVELOP- MENT PRO- GRAMME Total GRAND TO- 1735.8 125 TAL 76 14 December 2017 2016

Pillar Directorate ACTIVE FTE CENTRAL BANKING ECONOMICS 100.5 FINANCIAL OPERA- 75.2 TIONS RESOLUTION & CORPO- 145.2 RATE AFFAIRS SEM 6 CENTRAL BANKING 326.9 Total FINANCIAL REGULA- CONSUMER PROTEC- 89.9 TION TION CREDIT INSTITUTIONS 197.4 SUPERVISION ENFORCEMENT 104.2 INSURANCE SUPERVI- 129.9 SION MARKETS 154.7 POLICY & RISK 70.6 SEM 6 FINANCIAL REGULA- 752.7 TION Total OPERATIONS CHIEF INFORMATION 114.9 OFFICER CHIEF OPERATIONS OF- 93.3 FICER DIRECT REPORTS CURRENCY & FACILI- 242.25 TIES MANAGEMENT HUMAN RESOURCES 55.8 SEM 4 OPERATIONS Total 510.25 GRADUATE DEVELOP- GRADUATE DEVELOP- 9 MENT PROGRAMME MENT PROGRAMME GRADUATE DEVELOP- 9 MENT PROGRAMME TOTAL GRAND TOTAL 1598.85 2015

Pillar Directorate Active FTE Financial Regulation SEM 7 CREDIT INSTITUTIONS 194.6 INSURANCE 106.3 MARKETS 160.8 CONSUMER PROTEC- 92.5 TION

77 Questions - Written Answers Pillar Directorate Active FTE POLICY & RISK 61.4 ENFORCEMENT 79 Financial Regulation total 701.60 Central Banking SEM 9 ECONOMIC POLICY & 98.25 FINANCIAL STABILITY FINANCIAL OPS 80.8 RESOLUTION & CORPO- 124.8 RATE AFFAIRS Central Banking Total 312.85 Operations INFO MGT & TECH 98.8 HUMAN RESOURCES 62.6 DIRECT REPORTS 82 CURRENCY & FACILI- 244.9 TIES MGT Operations Total 488.3 Graduate Development Pro- 13 gramme GRAND TOTAL 1515.75

14/12/2017WRE00200IBRC Mortgage Loan Book

14/12/2017WRE00300113. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number and overall value of IBRC PDH residential mortgages sold by the special liquidator; the details of each transaction including the identity of the purchaser; the number and overall value of PDH residential mortgages held by IBRC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53778/17]

14/12/2017WRE00400114. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number and overall value of IBRC buy to let mortgages sold by the special liquidator; the details of each transaction including the identity of the purchaser; the number and overall value of BTL mortgages held by IBRC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53779/17]

14/12/2017WRE00500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 113 and 114 together.

As the Deputy is aware, for operational reasons the loan assets of Irish Bank Resolution Corporation Limited (in Special Liquidation) (“IBRC”) were divided into eight portfolios: Ev- ergreen, Rock, Salt, Sand/Pearl, Stone, Pebble, Quartz and Amber.

The Sand portfolio originally comprised 12,702 Irish originated residential mortgages with a par value of €1.8bn, most of which had transferred from Irish Nationwide Building Society. In the first sales process, 64% of the Sand portfolio was sold to two buyers, namely Shoreline Residential Limited and Mars Capital Ireland Limited.

Subsequently, the remaining 36% of the unsold residential mortgages from Project Sand were sold as two further sales tranches, Project Pearl Tranche 1 and Project Pearl Tranche 2. The first of these tranches? was sold to The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland and the second tranche was sold to Mars Capital No. 3 Limited and Mars Capital No. 4 Limited.

78 14 December 2017 PDH mortgages accounted for 83% of the IBRC mortgages sold in the special liquidation with BTL mortgages accounting for 17%.

14/12/2017WRE00600IBRC Loans

14/12/2017WRE00700115. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number and overall value of IBRC commercial loans sold by the special liquidator; the details of each transaction including the identity of the purchaser; the number and overall value of commercial loans held by IBRC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53780/17]

14/12/2017WRE00800116. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number and overall value of IBRC SME commercial loans sold by the special liquidator; the details of each transaction including the identity of the purchaser; the number and overall value of SME commercial loans held by IBRC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53781/17]

14/12/2017WRE00900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 115 and 116 together.

The information requested is not held within the Department. The Special Liquidators are in the process of compiling a response to this question which I will forward to the Deputy at the earliest opportunity.?

However, at a high level, as the Deputy is aware, for operational reasons the loan assets of IBRC were originally divided into six portfolios (and then split into two further portfolios): Evergreen, Rock, Salt, Sand/Pearl, Stone, Pebble, Quartz and Amber. All with the exception of project Sand/Pearl and project Evergreen were made up of, or had an element of commercial loans included in them.

I would draw the Deputy’s attention to page 8 of the progress update report from June 2014 (http://www.finance.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IBRC-Progress-Update-Report-6th- June-2014.pdf) which gives a good overview of what each portfolio was made up of at the start of the loan sales process. Pages 8 and pages 15 of the progress update report from March 2015

(http://www.finance.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/IBRC-Progress-Update-Report- 6th-June-2014.pdf) gives a further update on this and the wave 2 sales process.

14/12/2017WRE01000Bank Guarantee Scheme Bond Repayments

14/12/2017WRE01100117. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount received to date in respect of fees for the 2008 bank guarantee scheme and the eligible liabilities guarantee scheme; the proceeds received from the sale of banking related assets; the value of the various shareholdings the State has in respect of banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53782/17]

14/12/2017WRE01200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question, I can confirm that a total of €4.5bn has been received to date relating to the CIFS and ELG schemes. This includes €0.5bn from IBRC.

Proceeds from the sale and redemption of the State’s investments in the banks total €12.6bn (including accrued interest at the date of sale/redemption). In addition, a further €2.0bn has been received in the form of interest coupons and dividends.

79 Questions - Written Answers The value of the State’s remaining equity stakes in the banks, as at close of business 11 December, were:

Bank Totols Allied Irish Banks €10.5bn Bank of Ireland €1.0bn Permanent TSB €0.8bn Total €12.3bn Source: ISE

14/12/2017WRE01300Central Bank of Ireland Supervision

14/12/2017WRE01400118. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the Central Bank has issued guidance to financial institutions in terms of assessing loan applications on the issue of considering evidence of gambling transactions on the bank statements of persons that have applied to the institution for a loan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53783/17]

14/12/2017WRE01500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been informed by the Central Bank that it has not issued any guidance to financial institutions on the consideration of evidence of gambling transactions as part of the loan application process.

The decision to grant or refuse credit is a commercial decision on the part of a regulated entity that must be conducted in accordance with applicable requirements of Irish financial services legislation. These include requirements to conduct a proper creditworthiness assessment.

As I previously said in relation to a similar question last year (reference 23864 of 21 July), prior to offering a product or service, a regulated entity must gather and record sufficient information from the consumer appropriate to the nature and complexity of the product or service and must carry out an assessment of affordability to ascertain the personal consumer’s likely ability to repay the debt over the duration of the agreement, in accordance with the requirements of the Consumer Protection Code 2012.

On the issue more generally, in the case of all mortgage products provided to personal consumers, the assessment must include consideration of the results of a test on the personal consumer’s ability to repay the instalments, over the duration of the agreement, on the basis of a 2% interest rate increase, at a minimum, above the interest rate offered to the personal consumer. This test does not apply to mortgages where the interest rate is fixed for a period of five years or more. Where the lender offers an introductory interest rate, it must carry out the 2% interest rate test on the variable interest rate to be applied after the introductory period has ended if known at the time of the offer of the introductory interest rate, or on the current variable interest rate, if the variable interest rate to be applied after the introductory period has ended is not yet known.

It should be noted that the European Communities (Consumer Credit Agreements) Regu- lations 2010 apply to the provision of certain credit for amounts between €200 and €75,000. Part 2 of the Regulations include an obligation on creditors to assess the creditworthiness of consumers, on the basis of sufficient information obtained from the consumer.

14/12/2017WRE01600IBRC Loans

80 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRE01700119. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if following their appointment the special liquidator of IBRC changed the interest rates being charged by the bank on commercial loans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53784/17]

14/12/2017WRE01800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by the Special Liquidators that in certain circumstances there would have been a change in interest rates on commercial loans following their appointment. However, any change in interest rate on commercial loans could only be sanctioned by the credit committee of IBRC. Any such changes would have to be recommended by the case staff before being considered by credit committee. The credit committee would then consider all relevant factors, including the financial position of the borrower, when determining whether a change in interest rate margin was approved.

14/12/2017WRE01900IBRC Loans

14/12/2017WRE02000120. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the procedure in place from the date of nationalisation and, if different, from the date of the appointment of the special liquidator for the setting and of changing of interest rates on specific commercial loans in respect of IBRC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53785/17]

14/12/2017WRE02100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy is aware, the ongoing Commission of Investigation in relation to IBRC is investigating all transactions, activities and management decisions, other than those relating solely to the acquisition of assets by the National Asset Management Agency, which occurred between 21 January 2009 (being the date of the nationalisation of IBRC) and 7 February 2013 (being the date of the appointment of the Special Liquidators to IBRC). As part of this, the Sole Member will investigate whether the interest rates or any extension to interest rates or any periods for repayments were given by IBRC on preferential terms that were unduly favourable to any borrower, where those interest rates resulted in a differential of more than €4 million in interest due over the standard applicable interest rates for loans of that nature or where the amendments give rise to or are likely to give rise to potential public concerns.

Both Houses of the Oireachtas approved these terms of reference in June 2015. It is important that I do not interfere with or prejudice the important work to be conducted by the Com- mission of Investigation. In these circumstances it would be inappropriate for me to comment publicly in respect of the various transactions, management decisions and actions that may fall within the scope of the review.?

14/12/2017WRE02200IBRC Loans

14/12/2017WRE02300121. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the average interest rate charged on PDH mortgages, BTL mortgages, SME commercial loans and other commercial loans in IBRC’s loan book; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53786/17]

14/12/2017WRE02400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The following table outlines the number and value of commercial loans (including SME and other commercial loans) as at 7 Febru- ary 2013:

Interest Rate No of Accounts Balance - €m’s <1% 166 399 1% - 1.99% 920 8,658

81 Questions - Written Answers Interest Rate No of Accounts Balance - €m’s 2% - 2.99% 2,729 7,232 3% - 3.99% 1,568 4,893 4% - 4.99% 392 259 5% - 5.99% 271 391 6% - 6.99% 132 159 7% - 7.99% 67 83 >8% 66 56 The Special Liquidators have advised that balances with a rate of less that 1% primarily related to distressed loans where the loan was restructured or where the borrower was in liquidation or administration and the prospect of any future recovery was remote.

The Special Liquidators are in the process of compiling a response to the remainder of the question which I will forward to the Deputy at the earliest opportunity.?

Given that IBRC is going through a liquidation process, the ability to collate and report information of this detail in such a short period of time is not as feasible as it would be for a bank that is not in wind-down. The Special Liquidators have advised that the delay in issuing the response is due to the information not being readily available on the systems that are being used in the bank and that manual collation of the information is required.

14/12/2017WRE02500IBRC Liquidation

14/12/2017WRE02600122. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the status of the special liquidation of IBRC; the details of the portfolio that is remaining; the estimated timeframe; the financial outturn from the liquidation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53787/17]

14/12/2017WRE02700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Special Liquidators of IBRC published a progress update report on 5 May 2017 which provides the status of the liquidation as at 31 December 2016, this is available on the Department of Finance website at http://www. finance.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/170505-IBRC-Progress-update-report-report_31- Dec-16.pdf. A further progress update will be published in H12018 which will provide the status of the liquidation as at 31 December 2017.

The Special Liquidators have advised that there are approximately €3.5bn of loans remaining. The reason that these loans have not been sold is primarily due to ongoing litigation. It is not possible to provide a timeframe for the completion of the sale of these loans at this time due to the aforementioned litigation. The financial outturn from the liquidation will not be known until all legal proceedings have been finalised, all assets have been realised and all creditor claims have been adjudicated on.

14/12/2017WRE02800Mortgage Data

14/12/2017WRE02900123. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of rent receivers appointed to date in respect of buy-to-let properties for each of the State-supported banks; the number of buy-to-let properties affected by such appointments; the number of rent receivers expected to be appointed over the remainder of 2017; the detail of the operation of the rent receivers; the impact on the tenants concerned; his policy on the appointment of rent receiver; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53788/17] 82 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRE03000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Statistics from the Central Bank of Ireland’s Residential Mortgage Arrears and Repossessions Statistics: Q3 2017, show that rent receivers were appointed to 390 BTL accounts during the third quarter of 2017; this is down from 430 accounts in the previous quarter and continues the downward trend evidenced in recent quarters.

In relation to the State supported banks, the figures below relate to September 2017.

The AIB policy is to appoint a Fixed Asset Receiver with intention to sell. In the event that a Fixed Asset Receiver is unable to progress a sale they will continue to collect rent where feasible. ‘Rent Receiver’ is only appointed in exceptional circumstances where it is not intended to sell the asset. There are currently 459 buy to let properties categorised as having rent receivers assigned to them, however, all of these were appointed as Fixed Asset Receivers and were not appointed with the sole purpose of collecting rent.

In relation to PTSB, rent receivers are appointed to 557 properties. This compares with 423 properties in 2016.

My Department was unable to get more updated figures in the timeframe available but will forward them to the Deputy within the next week.

14/12/2017WRE03100Corporation Tax

14/12/2017WRE03200124. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the gross amount of corporation tax paid in 2017 by the top ten multinational groups as measured by corporation tax paid; the proportion this represents of overall corporation tax paid in 2017; the gross amount paid by the top 20 multinational groups in 2017; the proportion this represents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53789/17]

14/12/2017WRE03300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by the Revenue Commis- sioners that in relation to Corporation Tax paid by the top groups, data is not yet available for 2017 as the receipts for the calendar year are not yet complete and have not been analysed. The latest available information is in respect of net receipts in 2016.

I am advised that the Corporation Tax paid by the top 10 groups in 2016 is €2,999m while the Corporation Tax paid by the top 20 was €3,738m. This represents respectively 41% and 51% of the overall Corporation Tax paid in 2016.

14/12/2017WRE03400NAMA Loan Book Value

14/12/2017WRE03500125. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the book value and estimated market value of the loan assets held by NAMA; the details by geographic area, for example, Ireland, the UK and so on; if a decision has been made to accelerate the disposal of NAMA assets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53790/17]

14/12/2017WRE03600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The most recent details on NAMA’s remaining portfolio are available in the Agency’s quarterly section 55 accounts for Q2 of 2017. This report is publically available under the Publications section of the NAMA website. In particular, page 29 of the section 55 accounts details the book value of NAMA’s loan assets at 30 June 2017. As outlined in these accounts, the carrying value of NAMA’s loan portfolio at 30 June 2017, net of cumulative impairment, was €3.7 billion.

83 Questions - Written Answers Regarding the geographic breakdown of the remaining portfolio, I am advised that, at 30 June 2017, 85% of the assets securing NAMA’s loan portfolio were located in Ireland, 10% were located in the UK (including Northern Ireland), 4% was located in the rest of the world and the remaining 1% related to non-real estate assets.

It is expected that updated information will be available after I receive NAMA’s section 55 report and accounts for Q3 in the coming weeks. I expect to lay that report before the Oireachtas as soon as possible thereafter.

I am advised that the NAMA Board has devised and is implementing its strategy to delever- age all the assets by end-2020 while also facilitating housing and commercial office space delivery. No decision has been made to accelerate the disposal of NAMA’s remaining assets as to do so may compromise NAMA’s statutory objectives to obtain the best achievable return. NAMA is currently on target to deliver a €3 billion surplus which I very much welcome.

Question No. 126 answered with Question No. 92.

14/12/2017WRE04000Credit Union Lending

14/12/2017WRE04100127. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the amount and purpose of public funding that has been required to date by the credit union sector; the amount collected from credit unions by way of the levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53792/17]

14/12/2017WRE04200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Further to Parliamentary Question 152 on 13 July 2017, there are currently three funds in place which can be utilised under certain conditions to fund credit unions, two of which have been supported by public funding.

1. The Credit Institutions Resolution Fund (CIRF)

The CIRF was established under Section 10(1) of the Central Bank and Credit Institutions (Resolution) Act 2011 (2011 Act). The Government contributed €250 million to the Fund in December 2011 to provide a source of funding for the resolution of financial instability in, or an imminent serious threat to the financial stability of an authorised credit institution, and in particular:-

- To reimburse the Minister for any provision of a financial incentive pursuant to section 46;

- To provide funds for any payment required pursuant to section 37(1), 42(5), 48 or 98;

- With written consent of the Minister, to provide capital for a bridge-bank; and

- To meet the Bank’s expenses in discharging its functions under this Act.

The CIRF Levy commenced in October 2012 and levies collected from credit unions to date amount to €36.8 million. To date circa €31 million has been provided to support resolution actions in the credit union sector.

2. The Stabilisation Fund

In accordance with Part 4 of the Credit Union and Co-operation with Overseas Regulators Act 2012 credit unions contribute annually to a statutory Stabilisation Fund. The Stabilisation Fund, contained within the Credit Union Fund, is available to all credit unions with a reserve ratio equal to or greater than 7.5% of the credit union’s total assets and less than 10% and where the Central Bank assesses the credit union as viable. Stabilisation support will be provided

84 14 December 2017 to address short-term problems at credit unions that are viable but undercapitalised. Payment of an annual Stabilisation Levy commenced in 2015 (for a period commencing on 1 October 2014) and to date levies collected amount to €9.9 million. There have been no drawdowns, to date, from the Stabilisation Fund.

A review of the Stabilisation Levy was carried out in October 2017 and is due to be published shortly.

3. The Credit Union Fund

The Credit Union Fund was established under section 57 of the Credit Union and Co-operation with Overseas Regulators Act 2012 (2012 Act) for a number of purposes including the provision of stabilisation support, but primarily to provide a source of financial support for the restructuring of credit unions under the Credit Union Restructuring Board (ReBo) and to meet the expenses of ReBo in discharging its functions. The Government provided €250 million? to the Credit Union Fund specifically for restructuring under ReBo. The Restructuring Levy (ReBo Levy) is provided for under section 47 of the 2012 Act and commenced in 2014. Levies collected up to and including 2017 from the credit union sector amount to €11 million, circa 50% of ReBo’s total gross expenditure. Approximately €22.6 million has been drawn from the Credit Union Fund for restructuring purposes. ReBo concluded its restructuring work on 31 March 2017 and is currently being wound down.

14/12/2017WRE04300Insurance Data

14/12/2017WRE04400128. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of applications made and accepted, respectively, for declined insurance in each month of 2017 and each year since 2014 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53793/17]

14/12/2017WRE04500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The operation of the Declined Cases Agreement is not a function that either I, as Minister for Finance, or my Department have responsibility for.

Having said that, it should be noted that the Cost of Insurance Working Group recommended the Declined Cases Agreement should be made more transparent under the Report on the Cost of Motor Insurance. On foot of this recommendation, Insurance Ireland submitted a report on the operation of the Agreement to my Department in July of this year. In their report, Insur- ance Ireland states that it “believes that the time may be correct for a review of elements” of the Agreement. My Department accepted this proposal and has since hosted two workshops with relevant stakeholders who are examining what elements of the Agreement need to be amended or refined. I understand further workshops will take place in the NewYear.

In relation to the specific data sought by the Deputy, my officials contacted Insurance Ire- land seeking the relevant information. In response Insurance Ireland provided statistics on the number of cases that they have dealt and these are set out in the table below. The figures provided for 2017 relate only to the first six months of the year as the figures for the second half of the year will not be available till early 2018.

In relation to these cases Insurance Ireland have informed my Department that they secured a quotation for the applicants in question through the Agreement and as such they therefore consider all applications to have been ultimately successful.

85 Questions - Written Answers Year Total Year Total Year Total Year Total 2017 2016 2015 2014 January 113 January 128 January 91 January 39 February 109 February 121 February 102 February 42 March 126 March 139 March 122 March 53 April 139 April 129 April 107 April 64 May 147 May 158 May 103 May 93 June 155 June 206 June 117 June 56 July n/a July 181 July 94 July 49 August n/a August 172 August 65 August 55 Septem- n/a Septem- 181 Septem- 75 Septem- 69 ber ber ber ber October n/a October 193 October 91 October 58 Novem- n/a Novem- 161 Novem- 127 Novem- 48 ber ber ber ber Decem- n/a Decem- 172 Decem- 70 Decem- 43 ber ber ber ber TOTAL [789] 1941 1164 669

14/12/2017WRE04600Tax Yield

14/12/2017WRE04700129. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance his views on the recent reduced income tax receipts to November 2017; the way in which these tally with recent gains in employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53905/17]

14/12/2017WRE04800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The position is that at end-November 2017, cumulative income tax receipts of €18,283 million were marginally down 1.4 per cent or €251 million against profile. This represents strong annual growth of 4.2 per cent or €738 million. Furthermore, it is also worth pointing out that there were significant one-off income tax payments in the comparable period last year, amounting to c. €300 million. Excluding, these the underlying income tax position is showing a year-on-year increase of 6.0 per cent or €1.0 billion.

In relation to USC, overall receipts are on target at end-November.

Of the remaining components of income tax, some relate to unearned income and are not directly impacted by employment or wage developments (e.g. Deposit Interest Retention Tax and Life Assurance Exit Tax). The majority of these components are below target at end- November, and therefore having a ‘drag’ on overall income tax receipts at end-November 2017.

86 14 December 2017 The position is that the final Schedule D returns in respect of 2016 incomes were only due to be filed in November this year and Revenue is still in the process of reviewing these.

14/12/2017WRE04900State Aid Investigations

14/12/2017WRE05000130. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance when he expects the escrow account for the tax liability of a company (details supplied) to be in operation; when the full payment will be received; the likely timeframe on the case in the General Court of the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53906/17]

14/12/2017WRE05100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): While the Government has never accepted the Commission’s analysis in the Apple State aid decision, we have always been clear that we are fully committed to ensuring that recovery of the alleged State aid takes place without delay and has committed significant resources to ensuring that this is achieved as quickly as possible.

Significant progress has been made on this complex issue and the establishment of an escrow fund, in compliance with all relevant Irish constitutional and European Union law requirements, is close to completion. This will allow for the collection of the alleged State aid from Apple. The Deputy may be aware of a recent public announcement on progress in this respect. Officials and experts from across the State have been engaged in intensive work to ensure that Ireland complies with all its recovery obligations as soon as possible.

With regard to the appeal, the Government profoundly disagrees with the European Com- mission’s analysis in the Apple State aid case. An appeal is therefore being brought before the European Courts. Such an appeal takes the form of an application to the General Court of the European Union (GCEU), asking it to annul the Commission’s Final Decision.

The Attorney General prepared the legal grounds in support of the annulment proceedings and the application was lodged in the GCEU in 2016. As is normal practice, a summary of these have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union. They were also published on the Department of Finance’s website in December 2016.

The case has been granted priority status and is progressing through the various stages of private written proceedings before the GCEU. It is at the discretion of the Court to determine if there will be oral proceedings, either in public or in private. It will likely be several years before the matter is ultimately settled by the European Courts.

As this is the subject of open legal proceedings, it will not be possible to comment further, in particular on any of the individual elements of the State’s legal case in defence of our position. This is important to ensure that we do not prejudice our own legal case.

14/12/2017WRE05200Tax Collection

14/12/2017WRE05300131. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if the Revenue Commis- sioners can arrange for a deferral of payment in respect of income tax owed in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53929/17] 87 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRE05400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that its clear preference is always to engage with taxpayers experiencing tax payment difficulties and agree mutually acceptable solutions rather than deploying debt collection/enforcement sanctions to secure payment of outstanding liabilities.

However, such engagement is dependent on open and frank discussion with the relevant taxpayer to identify and implement a solution. Where there is poor or non-engagement then Revenue is left with no alternative but to use its enforcement powers to secure collection, including statutory interest where applicable.

The person in question has a very poor tax compliance record and has accumulated significant tax debts over a number of years. The person has also failed to file their most recent VAT return, which has resulted in estimates being raised in respect of that period.

Revenue has confirmed to me that it has already made every effort to engage with the person over an extended period of time but unfortunately has received no response to date. Revenue also confirmed that it previously provided the Deputy with the contact details of an official who would work with the person to advance matters and has assured me that this arrangement is still available.

To move the issue forward I would urge the Deputy to advise the person to make immediate contact with the nominated official. If the person fails to make contact, Revenue will be left with no alternative but to continue with debt collection/enforcement action.

14/12/2017WRE05500Negative Equity Mortgages Data

14/12/2017WRE05600132. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of households in negative equity; his views on the implications of this for the wider economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54016/17]

14/12/2017WRE05700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): This issue is discussed in the Cen- tral Bank’s Macro-Financial Review published this week - https://www.centralbank.ie/docs/ default-source/publications/macro-financial-review/macro-financial-review-2017-ii.pdf

Box 2: Negative equity in the Irish housing Market: recent developments

This notes that approx. 75,000 mortgages are now in negative equity, down from a peak of 320,000 in Q4 2012 .

For Primary Dwelling Homes, 8.7 per cent of loans remain in negative equity (down from 36.2 per cent in Q4 2012).

BTL properties had a higher share of negative equity throughout the period with 15.5 per cent of BTLs currently in negative equity, down from 54.6 per cent in Q4 2012.

Negative equity in the Irish mortgage market has been in decline in recent years. As well as being of benefit to individual borrowers, this can be beneficial to overall financial stability, including through positive effects on consumption and consumer confidence and by aiding housing mobility.

In addition it is worth pointing out that a total stock of over 120,000 PDH mortgage accounts were classified as restructured at end-June 2017. At end-June 2017 87 per cent of restructured accounts were deemed to be meeting the terms of their arrangement. For BTL a total stock of over 23,000 mortgage accounts were categorized as restructured at end-June 2017. 87 per cent 88 14 December 2017 of the total stock of restructured accounts were meeting the terms of their current restructure. This shows that engagement by borrowers with their lenders works.

I would also like to draw the Deputy’s attention to recent progress made by the Government in assisting those in mortgage arrears. The Abhaile service helps borrowers in arrears to find the best solutions and keep them, if possible, in their own homes. This is assisting borrowers, particularly those in longer term arrears. A dedicated adviser will work with borrowers in arrears and their lender to find the best solution for them.

Borrowers can get free advice from an expert financial adviser who can help them to work through their financial situation and where possible help them to remain in their home. An Ex- pert adviser could be from MABS or a Personal Insolvency Practitioner (PIP) or an accountant.

Borrowers may also need legal advice and under Abhaile and they can have a free meeting with a solicitor.

If called to court to face repossession proceedings on their home, they will be able to meet a Duty Solicitor at the court. A MABS staff member will also be present at court to help them.

A Helpline is available Monday to Friday and a face-to-face service which is completely free, confidential and independent is also available in more than 60 MABS locations nationwide.

14/12/2017WRE05800Tax Yield

14/12/2017WRE05900133. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the full year cost of increasing the lifetime limit for CGT entrepreneur relief to €1 million, €5 million, €10 million and €15 million, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54125/17]

14/12/2017WRE06000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to the revised Entrepreneur Relief provided for in s597AA of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. I am advised by Revenue that the current lifetime limit applicable to this relief is €1 million in chargeable gains. The cost of increasing this limit to the €5 million, €10 million and €15 million amounts suggested by the Deputy is €49 million, €54 million, and €56 million respectively in a full year. These costs are on the basis of various assumptions regarding asset disposals. Information in respect of claims of the relief as introduced in Budget 2016 should become available for the first time in mid 2018 when 2016 tax year returns have been fully analysed.

14/12/2017WRE06100Small and Medium Enterprises Data

14/12/2017WRE06200134. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the average Irish SME loan lending rate; the average EU rate; and the rate for each EU 27 member state based on available data in tabular form. [54131/17]

14/12/2017WRE06300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been informed by the Central Bank as set out in the Business Credit and Deposits statistical Table A.14.1, available on the the website of the Central Bank, the outstanding SME interest rate as at end-Q2 2017 is 3.21 per cent. The gross new lending weighted interest rate for Q2 2017 is 4.01 per cent.

The Central Bank does not collect data on SME interest rates outside of Ireland. However, the Deputy may wish to note that the latest ECB Survey on the access to finance of enterprises (SAFE) in respect to April 2017-September 2017 published on November 29, 2017 contains 89 Questions - Written Answers some information on interest rates across EU Member States.

14/12/2017WRF00200NAMA Operations

14/12/2017WRF00300135. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance the spending commitments or paying down of debt the Government has entered into with regard to the profits arising from the winding down of NAMA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54137/17]

14/12/2017WRF00400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware NAMA has now redeemed 100% of its guaranteed senior debt and expects to redeem its subordinated debt on its first call date in March 2020. NAMA will focus on completing its ongoing delever- aging, its Dublin Docklands SDZ and residential funding programmes in the interim period to 2020. It is through the successful completion of these objectives that NAMA currently projects a surplus in the region of €3bn to be returned to the State once it completes it work.

As per section 60(2) of the NAMA Act 2009, NAMA may use surplus funds to redeem and cancel its senior and subordinated debt. Surplus funds may only be returned to the Central Fund once NAMA’s debt has been redeemed in full.

Any NAMA surplus paid, while Exchequer positive, will not impact the general government balance, in line with Eurostat rules. It will be a decision for the Government as to how any surplus returned by NAMA will be utilised within the framework of the fiscal rules.

It has always been the Government’s intention to use such receipts from the resolution of the financial sector crisis to pay down our debt and help reduce our debt servicing costs. Given the uncertainty around the specific timing of or the amount that will be realised, such receipts have not been included our debt forecasts. Debt reduction underpinned by our national debt long term target of 45 per cent of GDP, will increase the resilience of the public finances to deal with any potential shocks which may emerge.

14/12/2017WRF00500Central Bank of Ireland Staff

14/12/2017WRF00600136. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the staff numbers in the Central Bank in each of the years 2008 to 2017 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54146/17]

14/12/2017WRF00700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Central Bank has provided a table which gives the staff numbers in the Bank at year end for each of the years 2008 to 2017:

Year End Headcount (Full Time Equivalents) 2017 (November month end) 1735.80 2016 1598.85 2015 1515.75 2014 1364.00 2013 1384.20 2012 1394.20 2011 1372.70 2010 1225.90 2009 1043.70

90 14 December 2017 Year End Headcount (Full Time Equivalents) 2008 1022.50

14/12/2017WRF00800European Central Bank

14/12/2017WRF00900137. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of Central Bank and his Department’s staff seconded to the European Central Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54147/17]

14/12/2017WRF01000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am informed by the Central Bank that, as of 12/12/17 there are currently 59 Central Bank of Ireland employees on secondment to the European Central Bank in Frankfurt. The Central Bank is committed to increased participation and influence in the Eurosystem and as a result secondments to roles of strategic importance are a key priority. Employees are encouraged to view secondments as an opportunity to develop new skills and competencies, and to engage with their European counterparts.

At present, there are no officials from my Department on secondment to the European Cen- tral Bank.

14/12/2017WRF01100European Central Bank

14/12/2017WRF01200138. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of European Central Bank on-site inspections of Irish financial institutions in 2015, 2016 and 2017; the number carried out by ECB staff; the number carried out by the Central Bank on behalf of the ECB; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54148/17]

14/12/2017WRF01300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): It was not possible for the Central Bank of Ireland to provide the information sought in the time available and, therefore, I will make arrangements to provide the information in line with Standing Orders.

14/12/2017WRF01400Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRF01500139. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Finance the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54228/17]

14/12/2017WRF01600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The costs incurred by my Department on photography are set out in the table.

There is no specific policy regarding the booking of photographers but the ordinary rules per the public financial procedures apply to such expenditure.

91 Questions - Written Answers Year Supplier Details Amount € 2017 Event Portraits Ltd Irish Institute of 701.39 Training and De- velopment (IITD) Award Photos and Licences following Department’s receipt of Best Learning and Development Or- ganisation (medium category) 2017 2016 Brendan Lyon Pho- Irish Institute of 105.00 tography Training and De- velopment (IITD) Award photo following Department’s shortlisting as part of the IITD Awards 2016 2015 Events Portraits Ltd Irish Institute of 95.75 Training and De- velopment (IITD) Award photo following Department’s shortlisting as part of the IITD Awards 2015 2015 Maxwell Photogra- Department of Fi- 462.53 phy Ltd nance Learning and Development as part of the Department’s Recognition of Awards Ceremony 2014 Maxwell Photogra- Department of 510.75 phy Ltd Finance graduation ceremony for the Diploma in Taxation Policy and Prac- tice, the Diploma in Project Management and the Refund of Fees Scheme - Rec- ognition of Awards Ceremony 2012 Maxwell Photogra- Signing ceremony 147.60 phy Ltd for Double Taxa- tion Agreement with Uzbekistan

92 14 December 2017 Year Supplier Details Amount € 2012 Maxwell Photogra- Signing ceremony 285.05 phy Ltd for Double Taxa- tion Agreement with Switzerland 2011 Maxwell Photogra- Signing of Taxa- 400.21 phy Ltd tion agreement with Germany

14/12/2017WRF01700Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRF01800140. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Finance the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54244/17]

14/12/2017WRF01900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I take it that the Deputy is referring solely to external public relations and not to advertising that would be incurred by my Depart- ment in the normal course of business, such as entries into telephone directories, the placing of advertisements in national newspapers, recruitment advertising, etc.

The use of external public relations firms in respect of my Department since March 2011 is outlined in the following table:

Year Commenced Use of External Public Relations Public Relations Firm Firms 2015 Following the Government decision of Carr Communications was the suc- 13 May 2015 on mortgage arrears, my cessful tenderer following a public Department was asked to coordinate procurement exercise advertised on the development and implementation Etenders. of a communications strategy around the Government-funded and other available supports for borrowers in arrears. The duration of the contract was from October 2015 until June 2016. Responsibility for the mortgage arrears publicity campaign now rests with the Abhaile Mortgage Arrears Resolution Service. 2015 Under the Action Plan for Jobs 2015, ICAN was the successful tenderer fol- action 110 required an “advertising lowing a public procurement exercise. campaign to leverage support for and drive utilisation of the Support- ing SMEs Online Tool and increase awareness of the existence of State supports for business.” This advertising campaign was co-ordinated by the SME Communications Group a subgroup of the SME State Bodies Group which is chaired by my Department.

93 Questions - Written Answers

Year Commenced Use of External Public Relations Public Relations Firm Firms 2016 As part of a range of competition Language Communications Ltd was measures agreed with the European appointed as Prime Contractor for Commission under their respective this campaign following a public EU-Restructuring plans AIB and Per- procurement competition advertised manent TSB are required to provide on Etenders and the Official Journal of funding to a public awareness cam- the EU. This contract was extended in paign (such campaign to be facilitated 2017 in accordance with the provi- by Ireland through an appropriate state sions of the competition. body) to raise awareness and promote customer switching. As such my Department are currently managing a contract for the provision of Research, Design and Media Buy Services (Pub- lic awareness and customer switching campaign) in retail banking markets. This is being funded in its entirety by the two banks. 2017 Public Relations consultancy, includ- Gordon MRM ing media engagement, in relation to the Initial Public Offering of AIB. The costs for this consultancy was incurred by the Department of Finance, and was paid on behalf of Department of Finance by the NTMA. All costs will be recoupable from AIB in due course. 2017 Publication of an Article covering the MediaVest success of the Department of Finance in the IITD Awards 2017 where my Department won the “Best Learning and Development Organisation- Me- dium Category 2017.” The Department’s policy regarding employing external groups is to follow the relevant public procurement rules and procedures.

14/12/2017WRF02000Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRF02100141. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Finance the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date in tabular form. [54260/17]

14/12/2017WRF02200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question, I have included the requested information in relation to external consultant reports commissioned by my Department since 2011 in the following table:

Commission ?External Consultant Report Name Cost Published/Expected date Publication date 2017 Independent Impact Assess- Indecon Economic €54,570 (ex. VAT) 10 October 2017 ment of the Help-to-Buy Consultants Incentive 2017 Review of the Corporation Séamus Coffey €30,000 September 2017 Tax Code 2017 SME Lending Survey Octo- Behaviour & At- €64,575.00 Published - June ber 2016 - March 2017 titudes 2017** 2016 SME Lending Survey April Behaviour & At- €64,575.00 Published – Decem- 2016 - September 2016 titudes ber 2016** 2016 Structure of the Banking Seamus Coffey €543.28 Not published. Policy Sector in Ireland in a Post- research paper. Crisis Era 94 14 December 2017

Commission ?External Consultant Report Name Cost Published/Expected date Publication date 2016 Review of Corporate Tax Seamus Coffey Review ongoing Review Ongoing Code 2016 SME Lending Survey Octo- Red C €58,979.00 Published – June ber 2015 - March 2016 2016** 2015 SME Lending Survey No- Red C Research & €58,978.50 Published - April vember 2014 - April 2015 Marketing Ltd 2015** 2015 Review of Local Property Dr Don Thornhill Nil Published - October Tax 2015 2015 Tax breaks and the residen- ESRI €30,677.43 Published - October tial property market 2015 2015 Spillover analysis of the IBFD €94,678.00 Published - October effects of the Irish tax 2015 system on the economies of developing countries. 2015 Review of marine taxation Indecon €106,887.00 Published - October 2015 2015 SME Lending Survey May Red C €58,979.00 Published – Septem- 2015 - October 2015 ber 2015** 2015 Assessment of special regen- John Martin €2,500.00 Not published. eration areas for the Living Used as input to the City Initiative decisions made on the special regeneration areas. The details of these areas were published when the Living City Initiative was launched. 2015 The provision of a review of Antaris Consulting €16,113.00 Not published. the current Health and Safety Internal Health & Arrangements within the Safety report only. Department of Finance and While the Depart- the Department of Public ment of Finance is Expenditure and Reform. the client the service The final objectives are to is being provided to update the Health and Safety both the Department Management Systems within of Finance and the both Departments in order to Department of Public build on existing Health and Expenditure and Safety culture and practices Reform. within both Departments. 2015 SME Lending Survey No- Red C Research & €58,978.50 Published - April vember 2014 - April 2015 Marketing Ltd 2015** 2014 Cost benefit analysis of Irish Indecon €103,689 Published - October Agri-taxation measures and 2014 international benchmark against other Agri-taxation incentives 2014 Effective rates of corporation Seamus Coffey €4,900.00 Published - April tax in Ireland 2014 2014 Importance of tax policy in ESRI €30,750.00 Published - October the location choices of multi- 2014 nationals 2014 Research Programme on ESRI €122,833.96 Published - October funding for Small, Medium 2014 Enterprises 2014 The historical development Ernst & Young €6,150.00 Published - October and international context 2014 of the Irish corporate tax system

95 Questions - Written Answers

Commission ?External Consultant Report Name Cost Published/Expected date Publication date 2014 SME Lending Survey April- Red C Research & €58,978.50 Published - Novem- October 2014 Marketing Limited ber 2014** 2014 SME Lending Survey Red C Research & €58,978.50 Published - June October-March 2014 Marketing Limited 2014** 2014 Review of existing facilities MKF Property Ser- €28,720.50 Published - June 2014 management processes vices 2014 Reviews into Mortgage ?Citibank Europe plc ?€0.00 Cancelled Servicing? 2013 Assistance and Analysis PMCA Economic €49,043.00 Not published. It was in the Preparation of the Consulting commissioned to pro- Medium-Term Economic vide evidence-based Strategy 2014-2020. economic analysis as an input to the MTES. This analysis is reflected in the text of the MTES. ?2013 ?Spatial Development Pat- ?ESRI ?€4,624 ?Not published. Used terns - Implications for the as input to MTES and Medium-Term Economic analysis is reflected Strategy (MTES) there 2013 Modelling Support - Medi- ESRI €35,362.50 Not published. Used um Term Economic Strategy as input to MTES and analysis is reflected there. 2013 Report to Department in Crowe Horwath €36,850.80 Published respect of a survey of R&D Active Companies 2013 2013 Ex ante cost benefit analysis Indecon €28,290.00 Published of proposed Living City Initiative 2013 SME Lending Survey Red C Research & €59,593.50 Published** October-March 2013 Marketing Limited 2013 SME Lending Survey April- Red C Research & €58,978.50 Published** September 2013 Marketing Limited 2013 Remuneration Review of Mercer (Ireland) €146,370.00 Published Covered Institutions Limited 2012 External Review of the Delotte & Touche € 61,553.00 Published Compilation of General Government Debt Statistics 2012 (a) Survey of audio-visual BDO and Amarach €64,575.00 Published producers (b) Review on international review of audio-visual state supports 2012 Assessment of Credit Re- Grant Thornton €31,807.80 Published view Office 2012 SME Lending Survey Mazars €60,885.00 Published** October-March 2012 2012 SME Lending Survey April- Red C Research & €61,438.50 Published** September 2012 Marketing Limited 2011 SME Lending Survey April- Mazars €52,453.50 Published** September 2011 2011 Acquisition by AIB of EBS Charles River Associ- €50,000.00 Published Building Society ates 2011 Mortgage arrears report ARAM International €100,000 Not published. It commissioned to feed into Partners informed the delib- Government strategy erations of the Keane Group and fed into the Keane Report on Mortgage Arrears.

96 14 December 2017 **Reimbursed by AIB & Bank of Ireland

The Deputy may wish to note that the list does not include research outputs under the joint Macro-economy and Taxation research programme between the Department of Finance and the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).

14/12/2017WRF02300Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRF02400142. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54276/17]

14/12/2017WRF02500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The following expenditure was made by my Department between 1 January 2017 to date on the advertising of Government information campaigns.

Advertising Type Supplier Information Cam- Amount € paign Description Newspaper Independent News- Information notice €1,110.69 papers Marketing re: Beneficial Own- Ltd ership Newspaper Irish Examiner Information notice €375.15 re: Beneficial Own- ership Newspaper Irish Times Ltd Information notice €921.89 re: Beneficial Own- ership Online Advertising Language Communi- Switch Your Bank €19,940.02 (Video On Demand) cations Campaign Online Advertising Language Communi- Switch Your Bank €99,500.07 (Digital) cations Campaign Online Advertising Language Communi- Switch Your Bank €25,951.51 (Search) cations Campaign With respect to the “Switch Your Bank Campaign” the following should be noted:

1. The Switch Your Bank Campaign is funded entirely by AIB and

PTSB in the context of their restructuring plans.

2. All figures are ex VAT.

3. Language Communications Ltd was appointed as Prime Contractor for this campaign following a public procurement competition advertised on Etenders and the Official Journal of the EU. This contract was extended in 2017 in accordance with the provisions of the competition

4. Video On Demand included TV3, YouTube and 4OD.

5. Digital included BBC, Insightful, Irish Times, Journal, Independent and Gemini. 97 Questions - Written Answers 6. Search included Google Adwords, Adserving & OCM

14/12/2017WRF02600Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRF02700143. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54292/17]

14/12/2017WRF02800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Level of Expenditure of the Depart- ment of Finance or under the aegis of that department 1 January 2017 to date in 2017

Year Supplier Details Amount € Photography Event Portraits Ltd IITD Awards and 701.39 Licence Advertising Independent News- Information notice 1,110.69 papers Marketing re: Beneficial Own- Ltd ership Advertising Irish Examiner Information notice 375.15 re: Beneficial Own- ership Advertising Irish Times Ltd Information notice 921.89 re: Beneficial Own- ership Advertising (Inclu- Language Com- Switch Your Bank 419,600.00 sive of TV, Video munications -sub- Campaign on Demand, Radio, contracted to Zenith Digital and Online Optimedia Searching) Public Relations Language Com- Switch Your Bank 52,000.00 munications - sub- Campaign contracted to Coyne Research Website Develop- Language Commu- Switch Your Bank 18,000.00 ment nications -subcon- Campaign tracted to Fusio Notes relating to the “Switch Your Bank Campaign”:

The Switch Your Bank Campaign is funded entirely by AIB and PTSB in the context of their restructuring plans. All figures above are ex VAT. The campaign also included expenditure on project management and creative development meaning that phase one of the Switch Your Bank Campaign cost a total of €600,000 ex VAT (€738,000 VAT inc). Language Communications Ltd was appointed as Prime Contractor for this campaign following a public procurement competition advertised on Etend- ers and the Official Journal of the EU. This contract was extended in 2017 in

98 14 December 2017 accordance with the provisions of the competition. Expenditure to date on the second phase has amounted to €3600 ex VAT.

With respect to the eighteen bodies under the aegis of my Department, I have been advised that three have not incurred any expenditure on items identified by the Deputy during the period outlined. These are the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, the Credit Union Advisory Committee and the Irish Financial Services Appeals Tribunal.

It was not possible for the Central Bank of Ireland and the National Treasury Management Agency to provide the information sought in the time available and therefore I will make arrangements to provide the outstanding information in line with Standing Orders.

The remaining thirteen bodies have provided the information sought and this is set out in the attached table.

[Bodies Under Aegis]

14/12/2017WRF02900Garda Stations

14/12/2017WRF03000144. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of closed Garda stations that have been sold since 2011, by county; the revenue raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54138/17]

14/12/2017WRF03100Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that the following former Garda stations have been sold by them since 2011 with a total value of €3,228,000.

Former Garda Station County Sale Amount 2014 Inchigeela Cork €55,000 Mallow Road Cork €260,000 Lettermore Galway €63,000 Cloone Leitrim €50,000 Grangemockler Tipperary €103,000 Baldwinstown Wexford €75,000 Newtowncashel Longford €50,000 Ballinure Tipperary €100,000 Dundrum Tipperary €90,000 Doon Limerick €50,000 Finea Cavan €56,000 Tullyvin Cavan €45,000 Kilmessan Meath €200,000 Longwood Meath €76,000 Ballymore Westmeath €55,000 2015 Rathowen Westmeath €15,000

99 Questions - Written Answers Former Garda Station County Sale Amount Meelin Cork €44,500 Kiltyclogher Leitrim €58,000 Crossakiel Meath €6,000 Aclare Sligo €40,000 Ballywilliam Wexford €110,000 Carrigaholt Clare €105,000 Kiltealy Wexford €86,000 Inistioge Kilkenny €132,000 Johnstown Kilkenny €115,000 Geashill Offaly €123,000 Ballyragget Kilkenny €141,000 2016 Ballinakill Laois €92,000 Lahardane Mayo €70,000 Ballinahowen Westmeath €20,000 Labasheeda Clare €18,500 Lauragh Kerry €115,000 Dromod Leitrim €142,000 Churchill Donegal €62,000 Easkey Sligo €65,000 Ballacolla Laois €15,000 Tournafolla Limerick €42,500 Ballyfarnon Roscommon €40,000 2017 Fenit Kerry €110,000 Doochary Donegal €35,000 Menlough Galway €50,000 Glencolumbkille Donegal €47,500 Total €3,228,000 There was no disposal of former Garda stations during 2011, 2012 and 2013.

14/12/2017WRF03200Garda Station Expenditure

14/12/2017WRF03300145. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the annual cost of security and maintenance on closed Garda stations that have not been sold, by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54139/17]

14/12/2017WRF03400Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The total costs incurred by my Office on vacant former Garda Stations in the last complete year - from 1/1/2016 to 31/12/2016 - was €224,500.

These costs include any maintenance or other actions considered by OPW to be necessary to protect the structure and value of the property asset and/or for health and safety reasons. Un- fortunately, a break-down of this cost by County is not readily available. I will arrange for the information to be collated and forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

100 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRF03500Public Sector Staff Retirements

14/12/2017WRF03600146. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the timeframe for the legislation to extend the mandatory retirement age in the public sector to 70 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53517/17]

14/12/2017WRF03700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Govern- ment has approved the General Scheme of a Bill to give effect to its decision last week to increase the compulsory retirement age for most public servants recruited before 1 April 2004. It is not possible to predict the length of time it will take for a Bill to be drafted and pass through both Houses of the Oireachtas given the need for meticulous drafting, ongoing detailed policy considerations, and the scheduling requirements of the Houses of the Oireachtas. However, I have asked the Attorney General to prioritise the drafting of this legislation so that the new compulsory retirement age will become effective as soon as possible which reflects the recent Government Decision on the matter.

In order to make some accommodation for public servants who reach the age of 65 in the period between the Government Decision on 5 December and the commencement of the necessary legislation, the Government approved some limited interim arrangements which became effective from the date of the Decision. The interim arrangements allow affected public servants who reach the age of 65 in that period, to remain in employment until they reach the age of eligibility for the State Pension (Contributory), which is currently 66. Details of these interim implementation arrangements are currently being put in place by the relevant sectors.

14/12/2017WRF03800Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRF03900147. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53573/17]

14/12/2017WRF04000Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question, I can confirm that this week I have signed the Commencement and Establishment Orders for the National Shared Services Office Act 2017 to take effect from 1 January, 2018. While this Act was passed by the Oireachtas in July, it was considered best that it commence in January to facilitate a smooth separation of the relevant functions from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to the new Civil Service Office in line with the budgetary cycles.

14/12/2017WRG00200Lansdowne Road Agreement

14/12/2017WRG00300148. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53610/17]

14/12/2017WRG00400Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Last Septem- ber the Public Services Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions endorsed the terms of the recently negotiated extension to the Lansdowne Road Agreement, the Public Service Stabil- ity Agreement 2018-2020 (PSSA), on pay and reform in the public service.

On Thursday 7 December the Dáil passed the Public Service Pay and Pensions Bill after being debated by members of the House. This Bill provides for the implementation of the terms of 101 Questions - Written Answers the PSSA. Details of the debate, which addressed many of the issues raised in the details supplied to this question, can be found at: https://beta.oireachtas.ie/en/bills/bill/2017/124/?tab=debates.

The Bill now sits before the Seanad for consideration and debate.

14/12/2017WRG00500Insurance Coverage

14/12/2017WRG00600149. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the OPW has reached agreement with the insurance industry regarding the use of demountable flood defences; if the insurance industry has given assurance that flood cover will be reinstated once a flood defence scheme involving demountable defences has been completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53771/17]

14/12/2017WRG00700Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The Minister for Finance has overall responsibility for the Government’s flood insurance policy. To assist insurance companies to take into account the protection provided by completed OPW flood defence schemes, the OPW has a Memorandum of Understanding with Insurance Ireland, the representative body of the insurance industry. This Memorandum sets out principles of how the two organisations work together to ensure that appropriate and relevant information on these completed schemes is provided to insurers to facilitate, to the greatest extent possible, the availability to the public of insurance against the risk of flooding. Insur- ance Ireland members have committed to take into account all information provided by OPW when assessing exposure to flood risk within these protected areas. To date OPW has provided details to Insurance Ireland on 18 completed schemes nationally and Insurance Ireland surveys its members to ascertain the extent to which flood insurance cover is available in these areas.

The insurance industry has recently confirmed that it accepts that flood defence schemes that utilise demountable defences provide protection against 1 in 100 year flood events. The insurance industry however do have concerns in relation to the human element in the deployment of these demountable defences, specifically in relation to any liability for flooding arising due to the incorrect or late installation of the defences. A separate working group including members of Insurance Ireland the Department of Finance and the OPW are discussing how best to address these concerns. This group last met on November 13th and is scheduled to meet again in January.

These meetings are in addition to the regular quarterly meetings where the OPW and the Department of Finance engage with Insurance Ireland in respect of the Memorandum of Un- derstanding. The most recent of these meetings took place on December 8th 2017 with the next meeting scheduled for March 2018. I am satisfied that my officials, along with officials from the Department of Finance, will continue to work with the insurance industry to progress this issue.

The decision on whether to offer insurance, the levels of premiums charged and the policy terms applied are matters for individual insurers. Insurance companies make commercial decisions on the provision of insurance cover based on their assessment of the risks they would be accepting on a case-by-case basis.

Any person with an insurance-related query or complaint can contact Insurance Ireland’s Insurance Information Service (01 676 1914 or [email protected]). In addition, the Fi- nancial Services Ombudsman (1890 88 20 90) deals independently with unresolved complaints from consumers about their individual dealings with all financial service providers.

102 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRG00800Flood Relief Schemes Funding

14/12/2017WRG00900150. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount of funding budgeted in 2017 for flood relief works; the amount actually spent to date; the budget for such works in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53772/17]

14/12/2017WRG01000Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The allocation for flood relief works in the 2017 Estimates is €60.788 million, of which €45.019 million relates to capital expenditure on flood relief projects and €15.769 million relates to maintenance works on completed arterial drainage schemes. The total amount spent in the year up to 13th December was €53.348 million. It is anticipated that the full allocation will be spent by the end of the year.

The total allocation in the 2018 Estimates for these areas is €83.972 million. This will allow for the continued implementation of the existing programme of flood relief capital works with completion of at least four major flood relief schemes currently at construction, the commencement of up to eight new major schemes and the continued development and design of a further 17 schemes in the existing programme. In addition, the 2018 allocation will allow for the advancement to more detailed project level assessment of a number of flood relief projects included as part of an initial prioritised tranche of flood relief works proposed in the CFRAM Flood Risk Management Plans to be announced once those Plans have been approved by the Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform.

The allocation will also provide for the delivery in 2018 of the ongoing programme of maintenance of completed arterial drainage schemes.

14/12/2017WRG01100Public Expenditure Data

14/12/2017WRG01200151. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the Departments or bodies under their aegis that are deemed to be best performing in terms of public expenditure and reform with respect to impact on the economic situation in general; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53936/17]

14/12/2017WRG01300152. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if in the context of public expenditure and reform, he has identified specific areas of potential overexpenditure that may require attention in the course of 2017 or thereafter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53937/17]

14/12/2017WRG01400Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 152 together.

Managing expenditure within their voted allocations is a key responsibility of each Minister and their Departments. As reported in the Department of Finance Fiscal Monitor, at the end of November overall gross voted expenditure of €51.5 billion was 1.3% below profile with current expenditure of €48.2 billion under profile in 15 out of 17 MinisterialVote Groups.

However, given the cash basis of Government accounting and the scale of gross voted expenditure, over €58 billion in aggregate for 2017, there can be a need for Supplementary Es- timates arising from policy decisions, overruns, timing issues or shifts in expenditure requirements. In aggregate, Supplementary Estimates of €0.49 billion have been presented to Dáil Éireann for approval this year and are set out in the table.

103 Questions - Written Answers Supplementary Estimates by Vote €m Vote 5 – Director of Public Prosecutions 0.4 Vote 12 – Superannuation and Retired 6.5 Allowances Vote 17 – Public Appointments Service 0.7 Vote 20 – An Garda Síochána 44.2 Vote 26 – Education and Skills 124 Vote 34 – Housing, Planning and Local 100 Government Vote 35 – Army Pensions 10.7 Vote 37 – Employment Affairs and Social 10 Protection Vote 38 – Health 195 Vote 30 – Agriculture, Food and the Marine 0.001 Vote 31 – Transport, Tourism and Sport 0.001 Vote 32 – Business, Enterprise and Innova- 0.001 tion As we are operating under the fiscal rules that apply under the preventive arm of the Stabil- ity and Growth Pact, Supplementary Estimates need to be accommodated within the requirements of the fiscal rules. Additional expenditure requirements in one Department may be offset by underspends in other areas. In this context, taking account of the overall expenditure position at the end of November, it can be expected underspends surrendered to the Exchequer at the year-end will mitigate the impact of the Supplementary Estimates.

Looking forward to 2018, taking into account the increased expenditure allocations set out in the Budget Estimates published on Budget day in October this year, and the key fiscal objective of achieving the structural deficit of 0.5% of GDP, it is important that Departments continue to manage expenditure within their allocations.

Sustainable public finances are necessary to support growth in the economy and build resilience to respond to potential adverse economic and fiscal developments. Budget 2018 sets out prudent sustainable growth in public expenditure. On Budget day, I announced an additional allocation of capital expenditure of €4.3 billion over the next four years up to the end of our existing Capital Plan. This additional capital investment is central to our response to Brexit and will allow major infrastructure projects to be planned over the medium term.

Education is vital to keeping our economy competitive and attracting investment. The allocation of over €10 billion for education is a new peak for the sector. Additional capital funding is also being provided over the period out to 2021 to address the infrastructure needs of the higher and further education sectors.

In conclusion, the increased expenditure set out on Budget day for schools, hospitals housing and public transport will continue to support economic growth, enhance the economy’s resilience and help maintain its international competitiveness in terms both of trade and attrac- tiveness to foreign direct investment.

14/12/2017WRG01500Public Sector Reform Implementation

14/12/2017WRG01600153. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

104 14 December 2017 the role he expects reform throughout the public sector to impact on economic performance in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53938/17]

14/12/2017WRG01700156. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he expects reform to remain part of economic strategy affecting the public or indirectly in the private sector in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53941/17]

14/12/2017WRG01800Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 153 and 156 together.

Public service reform has been a central element in the response to the challenges of recent years and remains an essential part of building for the future. The reform programme has been delivering for the Irish public for 6 years – since the first reform plan was launched in 2011. We have achieved much to transform our public services in that time and are building a resilient and responsive public service that can meet the challenges of the future while delivering quality services. However, the world is changing fast. Today’s uncertain and unpredictable global environment poses significant challenges for Ireland.

As the Deputy will be aware, a new phase for public service reform was set out in the framework Our Public Service 2020 published earlier this week. Our Public Service 2020 aims to deliver better outcomes for the public, to support innovation and collaboration and to build public service organisations that are resilient and agile. Implementation of the actions in Our Public Service 2020 will have an ongoing positive impact on economic performance in the future.

Our Public Service 2020 aims to strongly link expenditure with reform. This is to ensure that real reform is delivered and that there is a continued emphasis on ensuring value-for-money principles are adhered to across the public service. Ensuring value for the taxpayer is an important element of managing the costs of public services and maintaining stable public finances.

Our Public Service 2020, allows the public and businesses to have greater input into the planning, design, implementation and review of public services. Public service reform remains part of the Government’s economic strategy and will enable us to continue to improve outcomes for the public.

Shared ownership of the framework and committed leadership will be essential to ensure successful delivery of the actions in the new framework. For this first time, both civil service and public service leaders are directly involved in the public service reform governance structures. I believe that this will be key to ensuring the successful implementation of the new framework and to achieving the best possible outcomes for our economy and for the public.

14/12/2017WRG01900Public Sector Reform Implementation

14/12/2017WRG02000154. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which all bodies throughout the public sector, through reform or otherwise, are being rewarded through FEMPI; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53939/17]

14/12/2017WRG02100159. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which he expects those sectors and unions throughout the public sector to benefit from FEMPI or otherwise from the sacrifices they made during the downturn in the economy with a view to ensuring full restoration within a reasonable period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53944/17]

105 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRG02200Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 154 and 159 together.

Last September the Public Services Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions endorsed the terms of the recently negotiated extension to the Lansdowne Road Agreement, the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 (PSSA) on pay and reform in the public service.

On Thursday 7 December the Dail passed the Public Service Pay and Pensions Bill, and it now sits before the Seanad for consideration. This Bill provides for the implementation of the terms of the PSSA.

The PSSA will run from 2018 to 2020 by which point pay will be fully restored to all public servants earning up to €70,000 which is equal to almost 90 per cent of public servants. Benefits to different income groups are progressive and weighted towards the lower paid with pay increases ranging from 7.4 per cent to 6.2 per cent over three years.

This Agreement achieves the right balance between addressing the legitimate expectations of public service workers for increases in their pay and ensuring that the Government continues to exercise a prudent approach to the overall management of our public finances while securing industrial peace to support the ongoing delivery and reform of our public services.

The improvements in pay provided for in this Agreement mark another important step in the gradual normalisation of our collective bargaining approach to pay arrangements in the public service through the process of unwinding the FEMPI legal framework on pay that has been in place for the last number of years.

A copy of the Agreement can be found on the Department’s website: http://www.per.gov.ie/ wp-content/uploads/LRA-extension.pdf.

14/12/2017WRG02300Public Sector Reform Implementation

14/12/2017WRG02400155. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he is satisfied that all bodies impacted by cutbacks in the public sector are likely to receive recognition and recompense in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53940/17]

14/12/2017WRG02500Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Deputy is referring to private sector organisations in the Voluntary and Community Sector in respect of which my Department has not actual corporate responsibility or direct involvement. As non public servants, the staff of such organisations, which may exceed 100,000 in number, did not, for example, fall within the application of the FEMPI legislation involving as it did the reduction in pay and increase in pension contribution for public servants. It is correspondingly the case that current public service pay policy does not extend to such organisations.

It will be appreciated that such entities are accordingly self governing and accountable for the management of their own internal financial resources. While it is the case that certain or indeed, in some cases, all of these financial resources may come from government funding it remains the position that decisions on pay expenditure issues arising in such entities are matters that are determined at the discretion of the management authorities of each of the organisations concerned. The issue of pay is just one important challenge within a complex mix of other challenges and demands that the individual organisations concerned are required to decide upon and manage. Having regard therefore to these circumstances it is a matter for each of these private sector organisations to resolve the financial challenges that they may face in accordance with 106 14 December 2017 the financial resources available to them, whatever the source may be of such funding arrangements.

It is also important to note that in respect of Section 39 organisations, which are private sector concerns and a significant part of this sector, funding of almost €1billion was provided by the State in 2016. It is furthermore the case that Exchequer funding for Section 39 organisations has increased by over 15% between 2014 and 2016.

Question No. 156 answered with Question No. 153.

Question No. 157 answered with Question No. 12.

14/12/2017WRG02800Public Procurement Contracts

14/12/2017WRG02900158. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the degree to which public procurement and reform thereto continues to be part of Government policy with particular reference to the need to ensure maximum economic benefit while maintaining good procurement practice and indigenous resourcing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53943/17]

14/12/2017WRG03000Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Public Pro- curement is governed by well-established EU and National rules and guidelines. The aim of these rules is to promote an open, competitive and non-discriminatory public procurement regime which delivers best value for money.

Procurement reform is a key element of the Government’s overall reform programme and is aimed at delivering increased value for money, more accurate and timely data and improvement in the capacity and capability of procurement across the public service. The fragmented procurement arrangements across the public service facilitated amongst other things suppliers charging different public service bodies different prices for the same goods and services. This was not sustainable, as the State could not afford to continue to purchase works, goods and services in a manner that undermines the efficient delivery of services.

The central procurement frameworks and contracts established by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) have been designed to optimise benefits including savings to the State through the strategic aggregation of its buying power. Aggregation arrangements such as multi- supplier frameworks can, where appropriate, address local supplier issues.

The reform of public procurement in Ireland is being carried out in a manner that recognises the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises in this country’s economic recovery. The aim is to drive fair, transparent and open competition in the marketplace but also to work with business to ensure that government procurement policies are business friendly

Given the budgetary pressures facing the public service, public procurement enabled savings can support the dual objectives of meeting our fiscal targets and of maintaining/improving services for the public. The strengthening of procurement professionalisation will in turn provide public bodies who use the contracts and frameworks with increased certainty and reduced risk by providing them with compliant sourcing solutions.

The Government has committed in the Programme for Partnership Government to refining the new procurement structures in place and to make adjustments according to best international practice and in conjunction with Irish business.

107 Questions - Written Answers The SME Advisory Group chaired by my colleague, Minister of State Patrick O’Donovan in accordance with the Programme for Government, meets on a quarterly basis to address issues concerning SME participation in public procurement. Representatives include the OGP, the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Enterprise Ireland (EI), InterTrade Ire- land (ITI), the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), the Irish Business and Employers’ Confederation (IBEC), the Small Firms Association (SFA), the Construction Industry Federation (CIF), Chambers Ireland and the Irish Small and Medium Enterprises As- sociation (ISME). Minister of State Patrick O’Donovan also launched the Office of Govern- ment Procurement’s (OGP) Public Service Spend and Tender Analysis Report for 2015 report in September. This is the OGP’s third annual report that analyses expenditure and tendering activity on goods, services and minor works across public service bodies in Ireland. I would point out that the analysis is encouraging, indicating that 94% of the State’s expenditure is with firms within the State.

Finally, it is also important to remember that open tendering is a two way street and that it provides Irish companies with opportunities to compete abroad. Public expenditure on goods, works, and services representing approximately 14% of EU GDP with an annual value of nearly €2 trillion. The open market regime offers opportunities for Irish companies to win business abroad and reliable EU studies indicate that many Irish businesses are successful in this regard.

Question No. 159 answered with Question No. 154.

14/12/2017WRG03200Public Sector Staff Recruitment

14/12/2017WRG03300160. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which the recruitment embargo throughout the public sector has been lifted with particular reference to the need to ensure replenishment of staffing levels in the most sensitive areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53945/17]

14/12/2017WRG03400Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The moratorium on recruitment in the Public Service, introduced as a control measure in 2009, was ended with effect from 2015. Since then, a policy of delegated sanction for management of staff numbers has been applied to most Government Departments. Under this policy, subject to remaining within their pay ceilings, Departments can recruit or promote in grades up to and including Principal Officer or equivalent without seeking central approval. Departments with delegated sanction may also introduce similar arrangements with public service bodies under their aegis. The policy gives Departments a greater degree of flexibility to respond to staffing needs as they arise.

Since the ending of the moratorium, the number of full-time equivalent staff employed in the Public Service and delivering services on behalf of the State has grown by just over 25,000 and stands at approximately 315,000 as of Q3 2017.

The Deputy may wish to note that recent growth in public service numbers has taken place in the key sectors of health, education and justice in line with increased investment by Govern- ment in these services with these three areas accounting for over 85 per cent of the increase in staffing since the end of 2014. This, in addition to the further planned recruitment in 2018, reflects the Government’s response in terms of prudent and sustainable increases in public spending to key service needs reflecting, for example, demographic developments.

14/12/2017WRH00150Departmental Staff Data

108 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRH00200161. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of staff in the Office of the Government Chief Information Office in each of the years from 2013 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54141/17]

14/12/2017WRH00300Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Provided in table format, is the headcount of staff within the Office of the Government Chief Information Office as of 31 December for each of the years 2013 to 2016 and current figure for 2017.

Year 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Headcount at 28 29 34 46 56 31st De- cember

Year 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Headcount at 28 29 34 46 56 31st Decem- ber

14/12/2017WRH00350Office of Public Works Data

14/12/2017WRH00400162. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the flood relief capital allocation and the drawdown in each of the years from 2011 to 2017, by local authority, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54152/17]

14/12/2017WRH00437Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran) (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The capital allocation for expenditure on flood relief in any year is included as a global figure in the Vote of the Office of Public Works (OPW) as part of the annual Estimates process. This amount is not broken down on a county or Local Authority basis.

The details of the OPW capital expenditure on flood relief projects, both on major schemes and Minor Works projects, from 2011 to end of November 2017 are set out in the table broken down on a county basis.

All funding approvals by year and by Local Authority under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme are available at the following link

https://www.opw.ie/en/floodriskmanagement/operations/minorfloodworkscoastalprotec- tionscheme/listsofminorworksapprovals/

- - 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 TOTALS (To end Novem- ber) €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 Carlow Major Schemes 0 2,732 716 0 0 0 0 3,448 Minor Works 611 439 114 0 0 115 98 1,377 Cavan Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 0 111 0 0 0 0 0 111 Clare 0 Major Schemes 2,390 287 9,668 4,196 1,410 903 227 19,081

109 Questions - Written Answers

- - 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 TOTALS (To end Novem- ber) €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 Minor Works 617 426 271 1,387 8,530 311 420 11,962 Cork Major Schemes 6,235 9,395 12,167 6,581 4,135 20,885 15,598 74,996 Minor Works 402 282 222 685 724 0 0 2,315 Donegal Major Schemes 0 0 36 64 0 36 11 147 Minor Works 32 79 76 562 1,067 36 13 1,865 Dublin Major Schemes 805 4,046 2,710 6,315 4,524 4,487 3,072 25,959 Minor Works 320 873 373 605 163 31 30 2,395 Galway Major Schemes 1,518 795 234 190 201 1,592 4,013 8,543 Minor Works 1,510 765 248 1,048 1,642 301 0 5,514 Kerry Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 217 217 Minor Works 44 190 35 1,206 176 257 0 1,908 Kildare Major Schemes 1,470 715 130 89 149 100 23 2,676 Minor Works 209 352 57 3 3 3 4 631 Kilkenny Major Schemes 4 0 0 0 0 0 29 33 Minor Works 538 58 108 27 0 0 18 749 Laois Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 Leitrim Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 125 101 111 0 166 21 27 551 Limerick Major Schemes 0 60 0 691 69 3,333 0 4,153 Minor Works 268 92 142 291 43 114 8 958 Longford Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 261 0 0 0 0 57 49 367 Louth Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 75 66 141 Minor Works 67 72 191 71 162 13 576 Mayo Major Schemes 0 12 11 78 24 265 540 930 Minor Works 31 76 0 2,117 2,135 134 116 4,609 Meath Major Schemes 1,130 479 58 36 66 243 1,511 3,523 Minor Works 45 4 163 0 127 159 43 541 Monaghan Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 32 227 28 463 309 183 64 1,306 Offaly

110 14 December 2017

- - 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 TOTALS (To end Novem- ber) €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 €,000 Major Schemes 13 799 997 53 6 26 0 1,894 Minor Works 0 0 0 0 0 0 120 120 Roscom- mon Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 0 105 87 0 0 7 0 199 Sligo Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Minor Works 0 59 290 0 338 0 0 687 Tipperary Major Schemes 11,280 4,170 786 1,323 897 1,079 517 20,052 Minor Works 327 133 0 5 81 31 85 662 Waterford Major Schemes 600 3,315 3,996 4,240 2,542 830 0 15,523 Minor Works 0 14 15 366 895 0 0 1,290 Westmeath Major Schemes 0 0 0 0 0 0 24 24 Minor Works 83 0 0 0 0 0 83 Wexford Major Schemes 0 51 88 0 317 1,001 319 1,776 Minor Works 0 90 38 356 921 873 0 2,278 Wicklow Major Schemes 0 7,117 997 4,875 12,444 8,216 2,395 36,044 Minor Works 70 389 8 0 140 462 0 1,069

TOTALS 31,051 38,838 35,052 38,043 44,315 46,328 29,670 263,297 Note 1: Expenditure of approximately €44 million was incurred on other non county specific flood risk management measures and programmes including the Flood Studies Update, Hydrology and Coastal, Flood Risk Data Management and the CFRAM Pro- gramme of studies.

Note 2: The Minor Works totals include €22.42m provided to local Authorities in 2014 and 2015 following the Coastal Storm damage which affected the Western seaboard in December 2013 and January 2014.

14/12/2017WRH00550Flood Risk Management

14/12/2017WRH00600163. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of meetings held by the interdepartmental flood policy co-ordination group in each of the years from 2011 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54153/17]

14/12/2017WRH00700Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The Interdepartmental Flood Policy Coordination Group, that I chair, was established in 2005 and initially met on four occasions between March 2006 and September 2009. During this period, members coordinated on the delivery of many elements of the Outline Implementation Plan for the 2004 Flood Risk Management. These included the publication of planning guidelines, actions in respect of forecasting and the launch of the website resources 111 Questions - Written Answers www.flooding.ie, www.floodmaps.ie and www.waterlevels.ie.

The Group was reconvened in July 2015 and has subsequently met 7 times; the Group met twice in 2015, four times in 2016, and once in 2017. In addition to these meetings of the full Group, there have been a number of other meetings involving members of the Group in relation to individual aspects of the national flood policy.

In November 2016 Government agreed an interim report from the Interdepartmental Flood Policy Coordination Group setting out progress on its work and making appropriate recommendations for consideration by Government. This report is available to view on the OPW website at https://www.opw.ie/en/media/Interim-Report-Interdepartmental-Flood-Policy-Co- ordination-Group-final.pdf

Progress has been made against all the key recommendations contained within the interim report:

- The Government has approved the administrative arrangements for a targeted and prioritised once of Voluntary Homeowners Relocation Scheme for those properties worst affected by the flooding of Winter 2015/2016.

- The Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine have commenced study to determine the feasibility of any future once-off targeted scheme for Voluntary Farm Building Relocation.

- Work is continuing on the Government strategy to improve the availability of flood risk insurance cover by prioritisation of investment in flood defences by the OPW and Local Authori- ties and improved channels of communication between the OPW and the insurance industry including the sharing of data.

At the Group’s most recent meeting last September members reported on progress in their areas in national flood policy including updates in relation to Community Resilience, the Cli- mate Action Plan, the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Pro- gramme and the associated Flood Risk Management Plans.

It is currently envisaged that the Group will next meet early in the new year.

14/12/2017WRH00750Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRH00800164. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54233/17]

14/12/2017WRH00900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table. The engagement of service providers by my Department is done in line with procurement policy and within the parameters of value for money, with every effort made to minimise costs.

Year Service Provider Event/Occasion Cost 2012 Fennell Photography Irish Presidency European €105 Union Public Administra- tion Network meeting

112 14 December 2017 Year Service Provider Event/Occasion Cost 2012 Fennell Photography European Union Public €105 Administration Net- work (Directors General) meeting 2012 Maxwell Photogra- Public Service Excellence €811.52 phy Limited Awards 2012 Bradán Publishing Advertorial to Publicise €418 restructured Civil Service Employee Assistance Service 2014 City Headshots Promotional Headshots €400 2015 Marie O’Sullivan ONE HR Learning and €369 Photography Development Strategy 2015-2017 2015 Steven Langan T/A Civil Service Excellence €1,500 City Headhsots and Innovation Awards 2015 Maxwell Photogra- Civil Service Excellence €529 phy Limited and Innovation Awards 2015 Maxwell Photogra- NSSO photography head €126 phy Limited shots 2015 Naoise Culhane Pho- Capital Plan Launch €485.85 tography 2016 Fennell Photography Civil Service Excellence €849 and Innovation Awards 2016 Lafayette Photogra- Civil Service Excellence €476 phy and Innovation Awards 2016 Maxwell Photogra- NSSO photography head €154 phy Limited shots 2016 Noel Hills Photog- Official opening event for €220 raphy the Office of Government Procurement Offices at Spencer Dock 2017 Maxwell Photogra- National Shared Services €126 phy Office Photography head shots 2017 Fennell Photography Civil Service Excellence €1,390.51 and Innovation Awards 2017 Maxwell Photogra- Shared Services in the €464 phy Limited Irish Public Service Con- ference 2017 2017 The Camera Centre N/A (Purchase of a camera €963.98 for use by OGP staff in course of duties) 2017 Lensman Civil Service Customer €431 Engagement Survey Event

14/12/2017WRH00950Public Relations Contracts Data

113 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRH01000165. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54249/17]

14/12/2017WRH01100Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question, the public relations firms employed by my Department in the period in question are listed in the following table.

I can confirm that the engagement of service providers by my Department is done in line with procurement policy and within the parameters of value for money, with every effort made to minimise costs.

Name of Service Amount Spent Purpose Body Provider € Mindshare Media €145,441.83 Communications Office of the Gov- Ireland Ltd.(2017) Campaign – Promot- ernment Chief ing awareness and Information Officer benefits of the Public (DPER) Services Card / My- GovID Inventive Marketing €59,998.17 Communications Office of the Gov- Ltd T/A KICK Com- Campaign – Promot- ernment Chief munications (2017) ing awareness and Information Officer benefits of the Public (DPER) Services Card / My- GovID

14/12/2017WRH01150Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRH01200166. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54265/17]

14/12/2017WRH01300Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question the consultant reports commissioned since March 2011 by my Depart- ment are listed in the following table:

Report Title Company Publication Date Costs Sourcing Strategy Analysis Mason Not for publication €25,323 for Mobile Voice and – internal report only Data Services Banking services for PWC Not for publication €44,526 central government – – internal report only review of market Business Process Accenture Internal Reports €13,214 Automation process scoping reports: HSE and the Passport Office

114 14 December 2017 Report Title Company Publication Date Costs Independent verifica- MKO Partners Ltd June 2011 €35,819 tion of savings arising under the Public Service Agreement Report on Reasons Red C Research and January 2012 €41,043 Behind Voter Behav- Marketing Ltd. iour in the Oireach- tas Inquiry Referen- dum 2011 Independent verifica- Grant Thornton 13 June 2012 €31,586 tion of savings arising under the Public Service Agreement Capacity and Ca- Accenture 6 September 2012 €30,750 pability Review of Central Procurement Function IT-Capability Matu- Innovation Value November 2012 €30,750 rity Framework Ex- Institute, NUIM ecutive Assessment Independent verifica- Grant Thornton 3 July 2013 €24,206 tion of savings arising under the Public Service Agreement Debt Management – BearingPoint Published 24 July €135,514 Final Report 2014 Report of a Con- Transparency Inter- Published on 2 Octo- Funding of sultation with Civil national, Ireland ber 2013 €25,735.25 was Society Representa- provided to Trans- tives andCitizens on parency Interna- Ireland’s Participa- tional Ireland in tion in the Open 2013 following a Government Partner- competitive tender ship process to support a public consultation with civil society and the preparation of a report of their recommendations and proposals for potential inclusion in Ireland’s Open Government Partner- ship National Action Plan.

115 Questions - Written Answers Report Title Company Publication Date Costs Open Data proj- Insight Centre for July 2014 €19,188 ect: - Best Practice Data Analytics, NUI Handbook - Data Galway Audit Report - Road- map for Open Data - Evaluation Frame- work - Open Data Publication Hand- book OGP Development Baker Tilly Ryan Internal report €22,900 of Training & Organ- Glennon.Trinity isation Development House, Charleston Road, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 Value for Money Newmarket Consult- Qtr 3, 2014 €4,674 Report of Dublin ing Castle’s Conference Facilities Fund Structuring European Investment 5 November 2014 €26,767 Services Agreement Bank for Social Housing and Energy Efficien- cy in Ireland Baseline Report Sin- Mr Seamus 9 December 2014 €24,900 gle Pension Scheme O’Dwyer Civil Service Disci- Byrne Wallace March 2015 €30,750 plinary Code Review (action identified under Civil Service Renewal Plan Civil Service Disci- Clarion Consulting May 2015 €23,985 plinary Code Review (action identified under Civil Service Renewal Plan) Comparative Report Hans Graux of time. Publication pending €37,500 on European Na- lex CVBA, Brussels, the completion of the tional Identification Belgium work of the PPSN Numbers review Group Provision of legal Lauren Kierans BL Provision of legal €12,500 expertise to as- expertise only. Not sist and advise for publication. the Department in the preparation of Guidance to Public Bodies under section 21(3) of the protected Disclosures Act 2014. 116 14 December 2017 Report Title Company Publication Date Costs Analysis of Busi- Dovetail Internal report which €46,371 ness Processes for formed the basis of European Struc- a request for ten- tural and Investment der published on 4 Funds and Devel- March 2016 opment of a Detailed Specification for EU Structural Funds 2014-2020 Options for the next Davy Corporate Internal report €615 National Lottery Finance licence Recommendations JBA Consulting November 2015 €23,917 to DPER for Clare River (Claregal- way) Flood Relief Scheme NSSO Continuous Ernst & Young November 2015 €36,900 Improvement Report Building Strategic McGrath Associates Internal report €8,000 HR in the Civil Service PeoplePoint: Op- Equita Consulting Internal report €49,200 timal Resourcing Review reflecting present and future organisational requirements Baseline Research Price Waterhouse Internal report €148,781 2015 – Usage, Re- Cooper sourcing and costs of ICT across selected Public Service Bod- ies Develop and agree Accenture Internal report €339,188 a service delivery model for Govern- ment ICT Shared Services River Ilen (Skib- Ryan Hanley Con- January 2016 €12,417 bereen) drainage sulting Engineers scheme: environmental impact statement recommendations to DPER OGP ICT Category Accenture Internal report €153,000 Strategies (8 in total)

117 Questions - Written Answers Report Title Company Publication Date Costs Public Service Spend Accenture September 2016 €98,400 & Tendering Analy- sis for 2014 OGP Strategic Deloitte Internal report €200,010 Market Assessment – Phase 1 OGP Strategic Deloitte Internal report €484,450 Market Assessment – Phase 2 OGP Strategic Deloitte Internal report €196,333 Market Assessment – Phase 3 eInvoicing Recom- KPMG TBC €160,327 mendation Report Review of environ- CAAS Limited March 2016 €7,196 mental impact statement of the Bandon River (Bandon) drainage scheme – including recommendations Research and rec- Sile O’Donnell April 2016 €21,000 ommendation on a fit for purpose HR model/structure for the NSSO Payroll Shared Deloitte June 2016 €44,280 Services operational review A critical review of Institute of Public July 2016 €15,375 the applicability of Administration the performance related remuneration approach to the Irish Public Service Business case – Knowledge Pool as Internal report €106,063 shared model for part of Capita Con- Learning and De- sulting velopment in the Irish Civil Service Appropriate HR John O’Hehir Con- Internal reports €17,589 model for OGP sulting Ltd. Economic assess- Peter Bacon & As- Internal report €37,597 ment of issues sociates Economic raised in relation to Consultants the tendering process for the supply of printing devices

118 14 December 2017 Report Title Company Publication Date Costs OGP Audit of KOSI Corporation Internal reports €13,550 Methodologies for Ltd. 2013 Spend Data Analysis eCatalogue Readi- Science Warehouse Internal report €17,454 ness Assessment Report Environmental CAAS Limited December 2016 €7,196 Impact Statement of the River Mall Templemore Drain- age Scheme Gov.ie – The govern- Red C Research and December 2016 € 28,290 inclusive of ment Digital Ser- Marketing Limited VAT @ 23% vices gateway Review to inves- KPMG Internal Report €223,632 tigate the possible approaches for data centre hosting of Government cloud and other infrastructure Review, redesign BearingPoint Internal Report €89,037 and implementation of an organisational restructure if the ICT Service Delivery Unit National Data Infra- Accenture Q1 2017 106,925 ex VAT structure – A Com- parative Analysis OGCIO – Govern- Ward Solutions Internal Report €14,944 ment Cloud Platform (Build to Share) – PoC Security Design Review Report OGCIO BTS – Busi- BearingPoint Internal Report €43,050 ness Case for the delivery of common ICT Services Advisory services KPMG Internal Report €92,250 for the delivery of business cases for the Build to Share applications and the Build to Share infrastructure

119 Questions - Written Answers Report Title Company Publication Date Costs Analysis, options Accenture Q1 2018 €42,000 ex VAT and recommendations on implementing a Unique Busi- ness Identifier Independent Re- Research Matters To be published €23,979 view of the Tender Ltd in 2018 Advisory Service

14/12/2017WRH01350Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRH01400167. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Gov- ernment information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54281/17]

14/12/2017WRH01500Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Advertising/Information National/Regional/Online Cost Campaign Name Our Public Service 2020 National €3,762.04 Public Consultation adverts Public Consultation Process National €3,641.26 for Review of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 Protected Disclosures Act National €2,437.95 2014 – Appointment of Dis- closures Recipient

14/12/2017WRH01550Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRH01600168. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54297/17]

14/12/2017WRH01700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question the expenditure levels in my Department and the organisations under the aegis of the department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation are listed in the following tables:

Departments Expenditure

120 14 December 2017 Company Name Purpose Cost Campaign/Policy/Event Media Vest Advertising €3,762.04 Ltd Advertising €3,762.04 The Friday Agency Website Develop- €15.141.30 Development of website ment to publicise EU Fund- ing in Ireland www. eufunds.gov.ie Media Vest Ltd Advertising €3,762.04 Our Public Service 2020 Consultation Advertising Campaign The Friday Agency Website Develop- €15.141.30 Development of website ment to publicise EU Funding in Ireland www.eufunds. gov.ie Bearing Point ICT Analysis/Soft- €97,133 Civil Service Mobility ware Development scheme development project Creative Ltd. Animated Informa- €2,158.65 Civil Service Mobility tion Video scheme development project ESRI Ireland Interactive Map for €3,936.00 Civil Service Mobility DPER HR website scheme development project Irish Times (Exec Advertising €522.75 Additional advertising Jobs). for the Senior HR Man- ager (Principal Officer) campaign Mediavest Advertising €3,641.26 Public Consultation- Re- view of Protected Disclo- sures Act Mediavest Advertising €2,437.95 Appointment of Disclo- sures Recipient under the Protected Disclosures Act Public Appointments Advertising €3,451.38 Recruitment Competition Service Public Appointments Advertising €123 Recruitment Competition Service Iterate Website Develop- €5,175.75 Website Development ment Iterate Website Develop- €5,175.75 Website Development ment EU -Supply Website Develop- €22,210 Website Development ment Lensmen Photog- Civil Service Cus- €€430.50 Launch of the Civil Ser- raphy tomer Engagement vice Customer Engage- Survey ment Survey

121 Questions - Written Answers Company Name Purpose Cost Campaign/Policy/Event Maxwell Photogra- Photography €154 NSSO photography phy Limited head shots Maxwell Photogra- Photography €464 Shared Services in the phy Limited Irish Public Service Con- ference 2017 Bodies under the aegis of the Department

Company Name Purpose Cost Campaign / Policy / Event IPA Entry in the IPA €196.80 n/a yearbook. Iris Oifigiuil Advertising €31.00 Notice of River Mall Flood Relief Scheme Tipperary Star Advertising €307.50 Notice of River Mall Flood Relief Scheme Midland Newspaper Advertising €221.40 Notice of River Mall Group Flood Relief Scheme Medavest Ltd Advertising €634.24 Notice of River Fealge Flood Relief Scheme Webfactory Office of the Infor- €27,137.73 OIC Website develop- mation Commission- ment er website development IPA Entry in the IPA €196.80 n/a yearbook. Iris Oifigiuil Advertising €31.00 Notice of River Mall Flood Relief Scheme Tipperary Star Advertising €307.50 Notice of River Mall Flood Relief Scheme Midland Newspaper Advertising €221.40 Notice of River Mall Group Flood Relief Scheme Medavest Ltd Advertising €634.24 Notice of River Fealge Flood Relief Scheme Webfactory Office of the Infor- €27,137.73 OIC Website develop- mation Commission- ment er website development Webfactory Office of the Om- €7,539.90 Ombudsman Website budsman website development development Webfactory Office of the Om- €8,548.50 Ombudsman online budsman online complaint form complaint form 1Image Publicity photo- €701.10 Publicity photographs graphs Noel Browne Publicity photo- €225.00 Waterford Regional graphs Visit/Seminar

122 14 December 2017 Company Name Purpose Cost Campaign / Policy / Event Fennell Photogra- Publicity photo- €233.70 Publicity photographs phy graphs Communications General Communi- €400.00 General training Clinic cations skills training Murray Consultants Regional promo- €1,137.75 Regional promotion of tion of regulation of regulation of lobbying lobbying Mediavest Advertisement in €20,069.67 CICs, Regional Visits, newspapers events IPA Advertisement in €1,377.60 Advertisement in year- yearbook book S&L Promotions Advertisement in €3,751.50 Over 50’s Expo Adver- Senior Times Maga- tising zine WLR FM Advertise Regional €4,738 Advertise Regional Visit Visit to Waterford Michael Cooper Project launch £6,176.22 * Promotional campaign Photography photo-shoots for the for PEACE IV and EU’s PEACE IV INTERREG VA Pro- and INTERREG VA grammes Programme Classic Informatics Creation of new £9,300 * New website for the website for the SE- SEUPB UPB Independent news Funding call pub- £6,277.83 * Funding call public noti- and media (Belfast lic notifications fication – to help secure telegraph) – PEACE IV and eligible funding appli- INTERREG VA cations for the PEACE IV and INTERREG VA Programmes Independent newspa- Funding call pub- €12,891.20 Funding call public noti- per marketing (Irish lic notifications fication – to help secure independent) – PEACE IV and eligible funding appli- INTERREG VA cations for the PEACE IV and INTERREG VA Programmes Newsquest media Funding call pub- £7,418.88 * Funding call public noti- group (Glasgow lic notifications fication – to help secure Herald) – PEACE IV and eligible funding appli- INTERREG VA cations for the PEACE IV and INTERREG VA Programmes

123 Questions - Written Answers Company Name Purpose Cost Campaign / Policy / Event Brand X (the suc- Development of the €27,003 The PAS Website is the cessful tenderer for PAS Website key portal through which the project) members of the public can contact the PAS in respect of job opportunities in the civil and wider public service. S&L Promotions Advertisement in €3,751.50 Over 50’s Expo Adver- Senior Times Maga- tising zine WLR FM Advertise Regional €4,738 Advertise Regional Visit Visit to Waterford Michael Cooper Project launch £6,176.22 * Promotional campaign Photography photo-shoots for the for PEACE IV and EU’s PEACE IV INTERREG VA Pro- and INTERREG VA grammes Programme Classic Informatics Creation of new £9,300 * New website for the website for the SE- SEUPB UPB Independent news Funding call pub- £6,277.83 * Funding call public noti- and media (Belfast lic notifications fication – to help secure telegraph) – PEACE IV and eligible funding appli- INTERREG VA cations for the PEACE IV and INTERREG VA Programmes Independent newspa- Funding call pub- €12,891.20 Funding call public noti- per marketing (Irish lic notifications fication – to help secure independent) – PEACE IV and eligible funding appli- INTERREG VA cations for the PEACE IV and INTERREG VA Programmes Newsquest media Funding call pub- £7,418.88 * Funding call public noti- group (Glasgow lic notifications fication – to help secure Herald) – PEACE IV and eligible funding appli- INTERREG VA cations for the PEACE IV and INTERREG VA Programmes Brand X (the suc- Development of the €27,003 The PAS Website is the cessful tenderer for PAS Website key portal through which the project) members of the public can contact the PAS in respect of job opportunities in the civil and wider public service.

124 14 December 2017 Company Name Purpose Cost Campaign / Policy / Event National Radio Sta- Radio advertising €28,612 National Radio cam- tions (RTE, News- for State Boards paign to encourage talk, and Today FM) participation on State Boards. Q4 Public Relations Public Relations €47,970 To assist the PAS with company. public relations, communications advice and marketing functions Public Appointments General advertising €560,000 PAS have run approxi- Service (PAS) of competitions and mately 330 campaigns job vacancies across to date in 2017 which the civil and public require the prepara- service and wider tion and placement of public sector. advertisements across print and digital media to raise awareness about and encourage applications for the variety of roles offered within Government departments, the Health Service Executive, Lo- cal Authorities and An Garda Síochána. Media- vest deals directly with the print and digital media outlets on behalf of PAS and the bulk of the cost indicated is to meet the costs of advertising in these National and regional print and digital media outlets. *Sterling

14/12/2017WRH01750Schools Healthy Living Strategies

14/12/2017WRH01800169. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of participating schools implementing a healthy schools action plan. [53797/17]

14/12/2017WRH01900Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department is supportive of the promotion of healthy lifestyles in schools and has issued circulars to support and strengthen schools’ efforts in developing in young people the skills and attitudes needed to make informed decisions about their health.

Schools and the wider education sector in conjunction with parents and families have a crucial role to play in supporting students to make healthy choices. Through their primary and post primary education students are taught the key skills and knowledge to enable them to

125 Questions - Written Answers make healthier life choices and to develop the resilience to reject negative options. This can be seen across in the curriculum, through subjects such as Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE), and Home Economics as well as in Physical Education. It is also an important component of Wellbeing, the new area of learning introduced to all first year students from September 2017, as part of the implementation of the new Framework for Junior Cycle.

Another significant development in this area is the introduction of the specification for a new examinable Leaving Certificate Physical Education subject and a new non-examinable Framework for Senior Cycle Physical Education which were approved by me in February 2017, following development by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA).

Both the examinable subject and the Framework are being introduced on a phased basis from September 2018 . This is in keeping with the strong emphasis from my Department on promoting and encouraging Healthy Lifestyles for all students and commitments in the Pro- gramme for Partnership Government and the National Physical Activity Plan, reflecting the concern to ensure that all young persons in our schools engage in some form of physical activity. The work in schools also supports the Government’s Framework for Improved Health and Wellbeing 2013 - 2025 - Healthy Ireland.

The 2015 Lifeskills Survey indicates that 92% of primary schools surveyed reported that they had a healthy eating policy in place. This is similar to the level reported in 2012. 3% reported that they were in the process of developing a healthy eating policy, and 5% reported having no healthy eating policy in place.

100% of primary schools reported that they taught pupils about the importance of a balanced diet and 99% include the food pyramid as part of these lessons.

At Post primary 32% of schools reported having a healthy eating policy in place and a further 30% reported that they were in the process of developing one. 93% of schools reported that they promoted healthy lunches with their students compared with 66% in 2012.

14/12/2017WRH01950Schools Building Projects Status

14/12/2017WRH02000170. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for new accommodation by a school (details supplied). [53510/17]

14/12/2017WRH02100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): As the Deputy is aware, a building project for the school to which he refers is included in my Department’s 6 Year Con- struction Programme.

The acquisition of a suitable site for the school’s permanent accommodation has recently been completed. Arrangements are now being made to finalise the project brief for the school concerned with the aim of progressing the project into the architectural planning process.

14/12/2017WRH02150Departmental Staff Data

14/12/2017WRH02200171. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of departmental staff, by departmental premises, and within statutory bodies within his remit, and their grades, employed in Drogheda. [53531/17]

14/12/2017WRH02300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department has a regional office of the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) based at Drogheda. 126 14 December 2017 Presently the staffing cohort at the office consists of 1 Senior Educational Psychologist, 7 Edu- cational Psychologists and 1 Clerical Officer.

14/12/2017WRH02350Teacher Discipline

14/12/2017WRH02400172. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the procedures set out in Circular 0059/2009 are underpinned by legislation; and if so, the relevant Act. [53540/17]

14/12/2017WRH02500173. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills if there are exceptional circumstances in which the formal procedures set out in circular 0059/2009, as issued by his Department, do not have to be adhered to once the initiation of the formal process has begun; and if he will provide a list of these applicable circumstances. [53547/17]

14/12/2017WRH02600Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 and 173 together.

Circular 0059/2009 set out the disciplinary procedures for teachers employed by Vocational Education Committees (VEC). A separate Circular (Circular 60/2009) sets out the disciplinary procedures for non-VEC teachers. The procedures were negotiated and agreed with the education partners in accordance with Section 24(3) of the Education Act, 1998.

Circular 0059/2009 was superseded by Circular 0071/2014 in October 2014 to account for the merger of VECs into Education and Training Boards (ETBs). Where an ETB is dealing with performance or conduct issues in respect of a teacher, the use of Circular 0071/2014 is mandatory. The procedures set out in Circular 0071/2014 may be commenced or ceased at different stages by the employer depending on the circumstances of the individual case concerned.

14/12/2017WRJ00150Teacher Fee Refund Scheme

14/12/2017WRJ00200174. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of teachers that availed of the fee refund scheme in each of the years from 2011 to 2016; the average amount paid to teachers in fee refunds in each of the years from 2011 to 2016; if these payments differ between primary and post-primary teachers; the number of applications to avail of funding in each of the years from 2011 to 2016; the funding provided for the scheme in each of the years from 2011 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53548/17]

14/12/2017WRJ00300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The purpose of the Teacher Fee Refund Scheme is to provide funding towards the cost of course participation and examination fees on successful completion of professional development courses that are directly relevant and of benefit to schools and that are subject to certification/award by an appropriate accreditation authority recognised by my Department.

Applications for funding under the Scheme are made retrospectively for a course undertaken during the previous academic year.

My Department allocates €500,000 per annum to the scheme.

The Refund of Fees scheme is administered on behalf of my Department by Marino Institute of Education.

The table provides the number of teachers availing of the Scheme from the 2011/12 aca-

127 Questions - Written Answers demic year to the most recent data available which is for the 2015/16 academic year. The table provides the average amount paid to teachers in each year.

No Of Teachers - No Of Teach- No Of Teach- Post Primary Primary Average Fee ers ers School Year Applications Approved Approvals Approvals Refund 2011/12 563 441 270 171 €1,124.72 2012/13 755 683 354 329 €708.64 2013/14 805 764 349 398 €654.45 2014/15 1039 983 445 538 €508.65 2015/16 1227 1158 495 663 €440.41

14/12/2017WRJ00350Creative Ireland Programme

14/12/2017WRJ00400175. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the funding his Department is providing for the creative youth programme in 2017; the allocation it will receive in 2018; and, if his Department is allocating funding, the amount being provided for media promotion of the programme. [53551/17]

14/12/2017WRJ00500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department has supported the Creative Ireland programme throughout 2017 with funding for two elements of the Creative Youth programme.

Two teachers were seconded to the Arts Council in September of this year to begin work on Scoileanna Ildánacha/Creative Schools. This initiative will begin a pilot cohort of 150 schools across primary and post-primary levels in 2018.

Additionally, the primary school CPD initiative, ‘Teacher-Artist Partnership’ was delivered in twenty education centres during the summer as part of Creative Ireland. This was followed by artist residencies in schools between September and November. This initiative was supported by my Department, the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, and the Arts Council for a total cost of approximately €290,000. It is intended that it will run in all twenty- one education centres as part of the Creative Youth programme in 2018.

My Department was allocated €1 million for Creative Ireland in 2018. However, I have been able to secure an increase of €0.25 million, bringing the total allocation to €1.25 million. All funding from my Department will be allocated towards initiatives in the Creative Youth programme, with no funding from my Department being spent on media promotion.

I look forward to engaging with the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and the Arts Council in delivering the Creative Youth programme over the coming years.

14/12/2017WRJ00550Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRJ00600176. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53566/17]

14/12/2017WRJ00700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The information that the

128 14 December 2017 Deputy has requested is set out in tabular form.

Act Sections yet to be commenced Details Teaching Council Act 2001 Sections 39 This section relates to the continuing education, training and professional development of teachers. In relation to commencement, regard will be had to the development by the Teaching Council of Cosán, the national framework for teachers’ learning which has entered a development phase and is due to conclude in 2020. Education (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act Sections 1, 2, 4, 6-8. Section 1 relates to definitions. Section 2 relates 2007 to a textual amendment of a definition contained in the Education Act 1998. Section 8 relates to the sanction of expenses incurred in the administration of this Act. The Education (Admissions to School) Bill 2016, which passed Committee stage in June 2017, provides for the repeal of Sections 4 and 6 of the Education (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2007 and the introduction of an entirely new Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998. Section 7 of the Act refers to an order to be made with regard to the transfer of the Crawford Art Gallery from Cork City VEC (now Cork Edu- cation and Training Board) to the Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland. Matters relating to the transfer are the subject of ongoing discussions between this Department and the Department of Arts Heritage Regional Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs. Student Support Act 2011 Sections 1, 8(3) & 16(5) The Student Support Act 2011 provides a single statutory basis for all student grants to replace four different schemes that were operated by local authorities and VECs. The Act provides the power to prescribe courses that do not require attendance by a student on a full-time basis to be an approved course. This power enables the Minister, if there are compelling reasons and adequate resources to do so, to consider extending the circumstances where a student may be eligible for a grant where attending an approved course on a part-time basis. The potential costs of any such policy change will be a decisive factor and the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform will be required for any proposed change. Education for Persons with Special Educa- Sections 3-13, 14(1)(b), 14(1)(d), The sections of the EPSEN Act that have not yet tional Needs Act 2004 14(1)(e), 14(1)(f), 15-18, 38 and 39 been commenced are those mainly concerned with the assessment of need, the preparation and review of individual education plans and the associated appeals provisions in relation to these areas. A small number of sections refer to interaction between the NCSE and the health services.While awaiting the full implementation of the EPSEN Act, the NCSE has published a number of policy advice papers including ‘Supporting Students with Special Educational Needs in Schools’ (2013) and the Report of the NCSE Working Group: ‘Proposed New Model for Allocating Teaching Resources for Students with Special Educational Needs’ (2014). It is intended to bring into effect many of the good ideas contained in the EPSEN Act, on a non-statutory basis initially, through policy developments, including the introduction of the New Resource Teacher Allocation Model.

14/12/2017WRJ00750Public Sector Pay

14/12/2017WRJ00800177. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53595/17]

14/12/2017WRJ00900Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The Public Service Pay 129 Questions - Written Answers and Pensions Bill 2017, which gives effect to the pay measures contained in the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 (PSSA), is currently being considered by the Oireachtas. The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has overall responsibility for the Bill. The PSSA provides a framework for further negotiation on a number of issues, including new entrant pay.

Public service agreements have already delivered on a number of issues through structured negotiations and engagement with concerned groups. Through this process a 15-22% pay increase was negotiated for new teachers. The agreements to date have restored an estimated 75% of the difference in pay for more recently recruited teachers and deliver full equality at later points in the scale.

As a result of these changes and taking into account the proposed pay measures under the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020, the starting salary of a new teacher from 1 Janu- ary 2018 will be €35,958 and from 1 October 2020 onwards will be €37,692. If full equalisation was achieved the starting salary for a post-primary teacher from 1 October 2020 would be €43,879 and for a primary teacher would be €41,511.

Further to this, newly recruited teachers benefit from the terms of the Ward Circular which reduced the qualifying period from a CID and the removal of the career break and secondment categories of objective grounds which had previously prevented some teachers from gaining CIDs. In addition to earlier permanency, other measures of benefit to newly recruited teachers included a revised sequence for the filling of posts to enable fixed-term and part time teachers to gain permanent, full-time jobs more quickly and easier than before. These benefits were achieved through continued engagement and collective bargaining.

It must be borne in mind that the pay reduction for post-2011 entrants to the public service applied to all public servants and not just teachers, and that any restoration of these measures in respect of teachers would be expected to be applied elsewhere across the public service. While I am not in a position to provide an estimate of the total cost of restoring all post-1 January 2011 entrants in all of the public service to the pre-2011 pay scale arrangements, I can say that in the case of education and training sector employees, including teachers, the estimated current full year cost would be in the order of €130 million. Clearly, the cost across the entire public service would be substantially higher.

To have gone further than the pay increases that have been negotiated would mean I would have had less money available to hire over 1,000 extra SNAs in 2018, and over 1,000 extra teachers in 2018.

Any further negotiation on new entrant pay is a cross sectoral issue, not just an issue for the education sector. The Government also supports the gradual, negotiated repeal of the FEMPI legislation, having due regard to the priority to improve public services and in recognition of the essential role played by public servants.

Accordingly, the recently concluded Public Service Agreement 2018-2020 includes a provision in relation to new entrants which states that an examination of the remaining salary scale issues in respect of post January 2011 recruits at entry grades covered by parties to the Agree- ment will be undertaken within 12 months of the commencement of the Agreement. An initial meeting on new entrant pay under this process took place on 12 October 2017. Further progress has been made in this regard through the amalgamation of the post-2011 and post-2012 pay scales as of 1 January 2018.

14/12/2017WRJ00950Third Level Expenditure

130 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRJ01000178. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the amount that was spent on the provision of counselling services at third level in each of the years from 2013 to 2017; and the amount that has been allocated for the year 2017-2018. [53613/17]

14/12/2017WRJ01100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department allocates recurrent funding to the Higher Education Authority (HEA) for direct disbursement to the HEA institutions. The HEA allocates this as a block grant to institutions to cover teaching, research and supporting activities. The internal allocation of this grant is a matter for each institution.

However, details of expenditure incurred in respect of counselling services in the third level sector are outlined below as requested. Data in respect of the academic year 2016/17 is not immediately available, however, it is expected that it would be broadly in line with previous years.

Year/s Universities & Colleges IoTs (incl MIC, NCAD & St An- gela’s College) 2013/14 €3,963,627 €2,165,369 2014/15 €3,853,638 €2,185,196 2015/16 €4,185,682 €2,299,286

14/12/2017WRJ01150Pupil-Teacher Ratio

14/12/2017WRJ01200179. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills the ratio of students to teaching staff in each of the years from 2013 to 2017 at third level. [53614/17]

14/12/2017WRJ01300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The current staff:student ratio in the higher education sector is 21:1. This is calculated based on the 2016/17 enrolment figures. This is based on the ratio of full time students to core teaching staff. A breakdown of the ratio for the years 2013 - 2017 is detailed for information.

Higher education is a priority for this Government. Budget 2017 provided the first increase in higher education funding since 2009. This process of reinvestment was continued in Budget 2018. In total, we will be investing €100m more in higher education in 2018 than in 2016.

To complement the increased investment in higher education I hope to publish a new Sys- tem Performance Framework for the higher education sector early in 2018. This will provide the key system objectives for higher education in the years ahead.

2012/2013 Student:Staff Ratio Core Academics to FTE Students 19.88 : 1 2013/2014 Student: Staff Ratio Core Academics to FTE Students 20.47 : 1 2014/2015 Student: Staff Ratio Core Academics to FTE Students 20.80 : 1 2015/2016 Student: Staff Ratio Core Academics to FTE Students 21.34 : 1 2016/2017 Student: Staff Ratio Core Academics to FTE Students 20.78 : 1

14/12/2017WRJ01350Higher Education Schemes

131 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRJ01400180. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a housing estate (details supplied) is geographically split in two for the purposes of deprivation indices used for qualification for the higher education access route, HEAR, scheme; his plans to address this in order that all residents of the estate are treated equally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53708/17]

14/12/2017WRJ01500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): HEAR is a college and university admissions scheme offering places on reduced points and extra college support to school leavers from socio-economically disadvantages backgrounds.

The HEAR scheme is operated by the Irish Universities Association (IUA) and regulated by the higher education institutions themselves and not by my Department. The operational management of HEAR has transferred from the Shared Services Unit in the IUA to the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Any queries in relation to the regulation of the scheme should be raised with IUA directly.

14/12/2017WRJ01550Schools Building Projects Status

14/12/2017WRJ01600181. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Education and Skills when an extension for a school (details supplied) will go to construction; if every effort will be made to expedite this project in view of current accommodations in the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53709/17]

14/12/2017WRJ01700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The major building project referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning Stage 2b (Detailed Design), which includes the application for statutory approvals and the preparation of tender documents. All statutory approvals have been secured.

The Stage 2b submission has been reviewed by the Department and in August 2017 my De- partment issued comments on the stage 2b submission to the school and its Design Team. My Department requested confirmations from the Design Team that it carries out one final review of all of its tender documentation to ensure compliance with DoES requirements. The Design Team has been requested to submit written confirmation from each Design Team member including the PSDP that they have completed this review and are satisfied that the Tender Docu- ments are complete, correct and in compliance with DoES and Building Control (Amendment) Regulations (BC(A)R) tender documentation requirements. A response is awaited.

Upon receipt of these confirmations, my Department will then revert to the school with regard to the further progression of the project.

14/12/2017WRJ01750Departmental Schemes

14/12/2017WRJ01800182. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has received correspondence from a school (details supplied); if the financial assistance to the school will be increased in order to deliver high quality education as Gaeilge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53711/17]

14/12/2017WRJ01900Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I can confirm that I have received the correspondence referred to and a response has issued.

The school in question has opted to participate in the Gaeltacht School Recognition Scheme 132 14 December 2017 which provides schools with the opportunity to access extra supports and resources on the basis of the implementation of specified language-based criteria. To date, these resources have included additional continuing professional development and information sessions delivered by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta (COGG), release days for action-planning and advisory support visits to schools from a team of inspectors in my Depart- ment.

The budget for the implementation of the Policy on Gaeltacht Education 2017-2022 has more than doubled to €2.3m for 2018, which means that further supports and resources will be provided to schools participating in the Gaeltacht School Recognition Scheme on the basis of the approval of their action plans for improvement in Spring 2018 including:

- A grant of €1,000 to purchase Irish-medium resources

- Additional language support hours, which will be equivalent to providing an extra 30 whole-time teachers in Gaeltacht primary schools

- Additional professional development for teachers, with substitute cover, provided by COGG, and the opportunity to participate in a new part-time M.Ed. in Irish-medium and Gael- tacht Education

- Extra advisory visits from school Inspectors

- The opportunity to take part in a pilot project to link post-primary Gaeltacht schools digi- tally to extend subject choice through the medium of Irish

Full details of the additional supports and resources that will be provided to schools participating in the Gaeltacht School Recognition Scheme will be outlined in a new circular, which will be issued by the Department to schools in Gaeltacht language planning areas in early 2018.

The correspondence received from the school made reference to its non-DEIS status. As regards the designation of DEIS status to the school, it is important to note that DEIS is designed to address educational disadvantage and adopts a supplied by schools through the POD (primary on-line database) and PPOD (post-primary on-line database) and CSO (Central Statistics Office) Small Area data as represented by the HP Index of Deprivation.

A further assessment of all schools, using updated school data and the updated Pobal HP In- dex data, is underway. The assessment will demonstrate changes to the socio demographic status of schools and determine the number of schools that meet the criteria for inclusion. Schools with the highest concentration of disadvantage based on updated information will be included in the programme, subject to resources.

14/12/2017WRJ01950Schools Building Projects Status

14/12/2017WRJ02000183. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the evaluation of new design options in respect of a school (details supplied). [53731/17]

14/12/2017WRJ02100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The school referred to by the Deputy were requested to submit architectural size site drawings recently for each of the proposed options and these have now been received. It is now proposed to arrange for a site visit by a member of the Department’s Professional and Technical staff to review the options presented. When this is completed my Department will be in contact with the school authority.

133 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRJ02150School Accommodation

14/12/2017WRJ02200184. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his Department will select and approve a suitable long-term site within a local community for a school (details supplied) in time for it to move to a more appropriate location for the 2018-2019 school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54057/17]

14/12/2017WRJ02300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): As the Deputy may be aware, a project to provide permanent accommodation for the school in question is included on my Department’s Capital Programme.

Officials in my Department are liaising with officials in the relevant local authority in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding in relation to the identification and acquisition of a suitable site to facilitate this project.

All parties are working to advance this progress as expeditiously as possible. The school patron is being kept informed in relation to the school site acquisition process.

14/12/2017WRJ02350Minor Works Scheme

14/12/2017WRJ02400185. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if provision is made in his Department’s Estimate for 2018 for a minor works grant scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54062/17]

14/12/2017WRJ02500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): There are significant demands placed on the 2018 education capital budget due to demographic pressures, and the imperative of ensuring a school place for every child.

I indicated to the House last week that it is unlikely the Minor Works Grant 2018/2019 will issue during the 2018 calendar year and that it will probably have to be paid early in 2019.

I should point out that the payment of the Minor Works Grant is not confined to any particular date and can in fact, if paid, be issued during any month of the school year.

As part of our longer term infrastructural planning, my Department will explore whether it will be possible to give greater certainty to primary schools in relation to the payment of the Mi- nor Works Grant taking account of the Government’s 10 Year Public Capital Investment Plan, which is currently under development.

14/12/2017WRJ02550Student Universal Support Ireland

14/12/2017WRJ02600186. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the details of the 2018-2019 higher education grant scheme will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54119/17]

14/12/2017WRJ02700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The 2017 scheme was published on the 31st of March 2017. Details of this scheme can be accessed via the SUSI website at https://susi.ie/resources/.

It is anticipated that the 2018 Scheme & Regulations will be published in late March or early April 2018.

134 14 December 2017 Student Grant Scheme Eligibility

14/12/2017WRK00200187. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to exclude students’ part-time earnings in the assessment of means for the higher education grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54120/17]

14/12/2017WRK00300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The assessment of means under my Department’s student grant scheme is based on gross income from all sources, with certain social welfare and health service executive payments excluded.

In the assessment of means, a deduction of up to €4,500 may be applied to student earnings outside of term time but within the reference period.

Apprenticeship Programmes

14/12/2017WRK00400188. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Skills the approximate time it takes to make new consortia-led apprenticeships operational to apprentices from call for proposals stage to validation by Quality and Qualifications Ireland, to being available for new enrolments; the detail of each stage in the approval and qualification process; and the approximate time it takes for each stage in the process. [54126/17]

14/12/2017WRK00500Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy John Halligan): There are 10 main steps involved in developing a national apprenticeship, from research and formulating the outline proposal (step 1) to rolling out the programme with employers and apprentices (step 10). These steps are not necessarily linear and a number can be taken in parallel. Further detail on these steps is set out in the guidance material published in conjunction with the second call and is available at http://www.apprenticeship.ie/en/apprentice/Shared%20 Documents/Handbook_document.pdf

The Government’s Action Plan to Expand Apprenticeship and Traineeship sets an overall development timeline of 12-15 months for an apprenticeship, which can vary depending on characteristics specific to each apprenticeship. Apprenticeships developed through the first call would typically have taken longer than this, partly because processes and procedures were new for consortia, for providers and for state agencies. The processes involved in developing a new apprenticeship are now clearer and have supported the development of a range of programmes. These including both apprenticeships where co-ordinating providers had the power to validate programmes and make awards and those where validation and award making is performed by Quality and Qualifications Ireland.

Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRK00600189. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Education and Skills the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54226/17]

14/12/2017WRK00700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The table contains details of expenditure by my Department in relation to photography as requested by the Deputy.

135 Questions - Written Answers Cost Breakdown

Year Event Photographer Net VAT Gross 25/08/2017 Minister Bruton Maxwell Pho- € 182.00 € 41.86 €223.86 Portraits tography 28/08/2017 Minister Mitch- Maxwell Pho- € 154.00 € 35.42 €189.42 ell O’Connor tography Portraits 15/09/2017 Minister Hal- Maxwell Pho- € 140.00 € 32.20 €172.20 ligan Portraits tography 22/09/2017 Digital Learn- Fennell Photog- € 80.00 € 15.00 € 95.00 ing Framework raphy for Schools 06/11/2017 Gender Equal- JCP Photogra- € 400.00 € 92.00 €492.00 ity Taskforce phy Launch 17/10/2016 EIB Loan Maxwell Pho- € 9 8.00 € 22.54 €120.54 Agreement tography Signing 15/09/2016 Action Plan Maxwell Pho- € 798.00 € 183.54 €981.54 for Education tography Launch 10/06/2016 Music Bursary Maxwell Pho- € 406.00 € 93.38 €499.38 Scheme awards tography 03/06/2016 Action Plan for Maxwell Pho- € 420.00 € 96.60 €516.60 Disadvantaged tography Schools 15/08/2015 Jan O’Sullivan Maxwell Pho- € 14.00 € 3.22 €17.22 Seal of Office tography 29/05/2014 Winners of Irish Maxwell Pho- € 294.00 € 67.62 €361.62 History Compe- tography tition 23/05/2014 Photography for Maxwell Pho- € 336.00 € 77.28 €413.28 ISSU tography 02/12/2013 Digital Strategy Maxwell Pho- € 335.00 € 69.93 €404.93 for Schools tography 07/10/2013 Photos ahead of Maxwell Pho- € 126.00 € 28.98 €154.98 trade mission to tography Brazil 06/09/2013 National Par- Maxwell Pho- € 140.00 € 32.20 €172.20 ents Council tography Anti Bullying Launch 24/07/2013 Changes to Maxwell Pho- € 126.00 € 28.98 €154.98 third level fees tography for migrant students 12/06/2012 Visit of UN Fennell Photog- € 245.00 € 56.35 €301.35 Special Rep- raphy resentative on Violence against children

136 14 December 2017

Year Event Photographer Net VAT Gross 30/06/2011 Copies of Donal Murphy € 315.00 € 66.15 € 381.15 photographs of Photography a school project and their use on an A1 display board for the joint RIAI/ Department colloquium on school design TOTAL €5,652.25

Public Relations Contracts Expenditure

14/12/2017WRK00800190. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Education and Skills the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54242/17]

14/12/2017WRK00900Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The engagement of external expertise is considered where the matters involved require expert skills or capabilities that are not readily available within my Department. Such engagement is procured in accordance with the provisions of the Department of Finance “Guidelines for the Engagement of Consul- tants and other External Support by the Civil Service”.

The information sought by the Deputy in respect of the period from 2014 to 2016 is set out in the table below. This information is not readily available for the period prior to 2014. The information in relation to 2017 will be collated in early 2018 and I will arrange to have it forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it has been compiled.

Year Name of Firm Purpose 2014 Mitchell-Kane, Belfast Consultancy, Creation of brand, guidelines and logo 2014 ZOO Digital, D2 Creation of online banner advertising Design,Development and project management of websiteSet up Hosting for 1 year 2014 Phd, Clonskeagh, D14 Digital advertising and online media awareness campaign 2014 Prontaprint Printing of Flyers and Business Cards 2014 Careers Unlimited Stand at Jobs Expo 2014, Cork and Dublin 2014 Gds, Tallaght Pull-up stands for graphic display 2014 Carr Communications Interview board training & interviewee skills training 2015 Carr Communications Interview board training & interviewee skills training 2015 Phd, Clonskeagh, D14 Digital advertising and online media awareness campaign 2015 Zoo Digital D2 Skills to Work website 2016 Carr Communications Interview board training & interview skills training 2016 Zoo Digital D2 ToolTip Skills to Work website pop-up installation

137 Questions - Written Answers

Year Name of Firm Purpose 2016 Carr Communications To provide professional advice on communications support to develop an information campaign on reform initiatives in the second level school system 2016 Carr Communications Communications/interview skills training and Communications workshop 2016 Career Zoo Cost of stand space at Career Zoo, IFSC 2016 Public Relations Institute of Public Relations Institute of Ireland Certificate Ireland for Civil Service Press Officers

Consultancy Contracts Expenditure

14/12/2017WRK01000191. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Education and Skills the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54258/17]

14/12/2017WRK01100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Details of consultancy payments made by my Department for the years 2011 to 2016 inclusive are available on the Department’s website http://www.education.ie/en/Publications/Corporate-Reports/Financial- Reports/Expenditure-on-Consultancy/. Information in relation to consultancy expenditure is compiled annually in respect of the previous year. Details in respect of consultants engaged in 2017 will be compiled in Q1 2018 and will be published as soon as it is available.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRK01200192. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Skills the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form. [54274/17]

14/12/2017WRK01300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Details in relation to advertising for information campaigns in 2017 in my Department will be collated in early 2018. I will arrange to have the information forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it has been compiled.

Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRK01400193. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Skills the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54290/17]

14/12/2017WRK01500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Details in relation to expenditure on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development and media interview training and preparation in 2017 in my Department is not collated until early 2018. I will arrange to have the information forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it

138 14 December 2017 has been compiled.

The information requested by the Deputy in respect of agencies is not held centrally by the Department. If the Deputy has an interest in a particular agency then officials in my Department will request the agency concerned to provide the relevant information insofar as it is possible.

Commercial Rates

14/12/2017WRK01600194. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the fact that private early years services providing full day ECCE, free preschool, are exempt from rates while those providing full day care services or afterschool services are obliged to pay commercial rates; if he has had contact with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs with a view to standardising the non-payment of rates by all early years services providers; if an equalisation grant to offset the cost of commercial rates can be provided to providers for which it is not possible to remove the rates obligation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54012/17]

14/12/2017WRK01700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I should point out that the Commissioner of Valuation is independent in the exercise of his duties under the Valuation Act 2001, as amended, and the making of valuations for rating purposes is his sole responsibility. I, as Minister for Justice and Equality, have no function in decisions in this regard.

The Valuation Act, 2001 as amended by the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015 provides that all buildings used or developed for any purpose, including constructions affixed thereto, are rateable unless expressly exempted under Schedule 4 of the Act. Such exempt buildings would principally include those used for public worship, education and health care provided on a not-for-profit basis, and charitable purposes. In general, the Act maintains the long-standing position that all commercial properties - including all private childcare facilities such as play schools, pre-schools, crèches and Montessori schools - are liable for rates.

Inconsistency in the approach to the exemption from rates for childcare and education facilities and calls to exempt all such providers were among the issues raised at a number of stages during the passage of the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015. As a result, the Government approved an amendment to the Bill, to insert into Schedule 4 of the Valuation Act 2001, an exemption from rates for properties occupied by parties that provide early childhood care and education on a not-for-profit basis. This extension of the childcare and education exemption removed an anomaly that previously existed where those that provided childcare and education on a charitable basis were exempt but those that did so on a not-for-profit basis were not.

The decision taken by Government in the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015 to extend the exemption from rates for early childcare and education was taken having considered the views of stakeholders in the sector. As outlined in Oireachtas debates during the passage of the legislation, key valuation principles have to be respected to retain the integrity and equity of a system that is a significant source of funding for Local Authorities. One of those principles is that properties of occupiers that operate with the intention of making a profit are rateable. There is a variety of other more appropriate means through which Government can and does support the provision of such services. Making exception to core, long-standing valuation principles can have a far reaching negative impact on the rates system and consequently a far reaching impact on Local Government funding.

In addition to the exemption of those that provide childcare and early education on a not-for- 139 Questions - Written Answers profit basis, paragraph 10 of Schedule 4 of the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015 also exempts from rates childcare facilities that only provide the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme.

The Acts are quite specific about the range of exemptions that can be allowed by the Com- missioner, who has no discretionary latitude to grant exemptions not covered by Schedule 4. As a matter of course, the Valuation Office examines all claimant cases on their individual merits by reference to the relevant statutory provisions governing the operation of the Valuation Acts as they relate to pre-school childcare facilities and all other categories of properties.

Regarding the payment of rates by individual ratepayers, the Deputy will be aware that under Irish law there is a distinct separation of function between the valuation of rateable property and the setting and collection of commercial rates. The amount of rates payable by a ratepayer in any calendar year is a product of the valuation set by the Valuation Office multiplied by the Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV) decided annually by the elected members of the local authority. The latter is a reserved function of the elected members and the Commissioner of Valuation has no function in this regard.

The Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) was consulted in the deliberations surrounding the extension of the exemption from rates for early childcare and education. Pri- vate childcare facilities which are operated for profit form part of the rateable valuation base on a nationwide basis. While I understand that this issue has been the subject of discussions earlier this year between the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and my own Department, there are currently no plans to provide for special treatment of these for profit facilities by their exemption from rateability under the Valuation Acts.

Finally, I should point out that there are a number of avenues of redress for an occupier of rateable property who is dissatisfied with a determination of valuation made under the provisions of the Valuation Acts, 2001-2015. Firstly, before a determination is made, there is a right to make representations to the Valuation Office in relation to a proposed valuation. Later in the process, if the occupier is still dissatisfied with the determination, there is a right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal which is an independent body set up for the purpose of hearing appeals against determinations of the Valuation Office. There is a right of appeal to the Higher Courts on a point of law.

Local authorities are under a statutory obligation to levy rates on any property used for commercial purposes in accordance with the details entered in the valuation lists prepared by the independent Commissioner of Valuation, pursuant to the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015. The levying and collection of rates are matters for each individual local authority.

Commercial rates form an important element of the funding of all local authorities. The principle of local authorities levying rates based on an independent valuation is well established, and I understand that the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government has indicated that there are no plans to change this.

EU Directives

14/12/2017WRK01800195. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to reports that the Government is seeking to delay the implementation of European Union Work-Life Balance Directive; his views on the fact that Ireland is one of only six EU member states to not offer employer paid paternity leave; his plans to address this anomaly in respect of the implementation of the directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54181/17]

140 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRK01900218. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans in respect of the implementation of the European Union Work Life Balance Directive; his views on the fact that Ireland is one of only six EU member states to not offer employer paid parental leave; his plans to address this anomaly in respect of the implementation of the directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53952/17]

14/12/2017WRK02000Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy David Stanton): I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 218 together.

As the Deputy is aware, on 26 April 2017, the European Commission initiated a Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on work-life balance for parents and carers and repealing Council Directive 2010/18/EU. The Directive is part of a package of measures aimed, inter alia, at addressing the underrepresentation of women in employment, and supporting women’s career progression by creating improved conditions whereby they can reconcile their working responsibilities and family commitments.

The specific objectives of the Directive are (1) To improve access to work-life balance arrangements and (2) To increase take-up of family-related leaves and flexible working arrangements by men.

The key articles in the Directive are (1) Article 4, which provides for 10 days of paid paternity leave, (2) Article 5, which provides for four months parental leave, one month of which may be transferable between parents, in respect of children up to the age of eight, (3) Article 6, which provides for five days per annum paid carers’ leave, (4) Article 8, which provides that workers exercising rights in accordance with articles 4, 5 and 6 will receive payment or an allowance equivalent to national sick leave rates (at a minimum) and (5) Article 9, which provides for the right of a worker with caring responsibilities or the right of a parent (in respect of children up to 12 years of age) to ask his or her employer for flexible working arrangements.

Working Group negotiations on the proposed directive have been underway since the initiation of the proposal, and will continue in January 2018 under the Bulgarian Presidency of the European Union. It is expected that discussions on the Directive will not progress to general approach for at least several months so it would be premature to plan for the proposal’s implementation at this stage.

While supportive of the aims of the Directive, in common with many other member states Ireland recognises that there are significant cost implications associated with the proposed new Parental Leave scheme. These reservations have been expressed at working group level and also at the meeting of the Council of the European Union on Employment, Social Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) on 7 December, 2017. At that meeting the implementation of the Parental Leave scheme on a phased basis was suggested and discussed. Given the cost implications and logistical issues arising, this is a reasonable position to adopt as it would allow member states to reduce the initial costs of introducing any new leave and benefit arrangements over a period of time and it would also give member states sufficient time to manage the logistics of any new schemes. The Government is of the view that were the principle of phased implementation to be accepted, the focus should initially be on providing leave to parents of younger children and only subsequently expanded to parents of older children.

Some of the goals of the proposed directive are already reflected in existing schemes in Ireland. For instance in 2016 a new scheme of two weeks of Paternity Leave to paid at the sick leave rate was introduced which satisfies the requirements of the proposed Directive in relation to paternity leave. The Programme for Government contains a commitment to expanding paid leave for the first year of a child’s life, and work on developing proposals on how this expansion can be best achieved will formally begin in early 2018. It is expected that the agreed scheme 141 Questions - Written Answers will be recognised as progress towards achieving the requirements of the Directive.

My Department looks forward to continuing work on the Directive with the other key Gov- ernment Departments and the EU Commission, Presidency and member states to shape it so that it is affordable, properly targeted, and effectively serves to improve the work life balance of parents and families.

Departmental Staff Data

14/12/2017WRK02100196. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of departmental staff by departmental premises and within statutory bodies within his remit and their grades employed in Drogheda. [53533/17]

14/12/2017WRK02200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The table sets out the information requested by the Deputy.

Offices of the De- Number of Officers Grade/Rank Premises/Address partment and Statu- tory Bodies under the remit of the Minister based in Drogheda 3 Probation Officer 2 Clerical Officer Probation Service, 1 Community Service 23 Laurence Street, Department of Jus- Supervisor Drogheda, Co. tice and Equality Louth.DroghedaL- outh 84 Garda 15 Sergeant 2 Inspector 2 Superintendent 1 Chief Superintendent 11 Clerical Officer 3 Executive Officer An Garda Síochána 14 Garda Reserve Father Connolly Way,Drogheda,Co. Louth,A92 P704

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRK02300197. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of permission to work and attend college for persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53541/17]

14/12/2017WRK02400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): If an application for asy- lum or subsidiary protection has been made in the State, for confidentiality reasons it is not the practice to comment on such applications and the applicant or their designated legal advisor should contact the International Protection Office directly either by email to [email protected]. ie, by telephone to the IPO Customer Service Centre at 01 6028008 or in writing to Customer 142 14 December 2017 Service Centre, International Protection Office, 79-83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2. Similarly, the International Protection Appeals Tribunal operate an email which can be contacted by individuals with any queries regarding their appeal application - [email protected].

Section 26 of the International Protection Act 2015, provides that it is an offence to identify an international protection applicant. The offence is punishable by summary conviction to a Class A fine or a term of imprisonment of 12 months or both.

The Supreme Court judgment in the case of N.V.H. v. The Minister for Justice and Equality found, on 30 May last, that in an international protection system with no temporal limits as to when the application process will be concluded, an absolute prohibition on the right to work for international protection applicants is contrary to the right to seek employment under the Consti- tution. The Court recognised that this is a matter for the Executive and Legislature to consider and accordingly adjourned consideration of the Order the Court should make for a period of six months. The Court in making its Final Orders agreed to a stay on the execution of the Order until 9 February 2018. My officials are actively engaged in ensuring compliance with the Order.

Following the approval of Government, an Inter-Departmental Taskforce was established in July to examine the wide-ranging implications of the judgment, and to consider appropriate solutions. The Taskforce was comprised of representatives from nine Government Departments, along with the Office of the Attorney General. On 21 November 2017, the Government approved the recommendations of the Taskforce, including the key recommendation that the State should respond to the judgment by opting-in to the EU (Recast) Reception Conditions Directive (2013/33/EU). The EU Directive provides for many matters including, of course, access to the labour market for international protection applicants.

The Minister for Justice will move the required Motions to seek approval in the Houses of the Oireachtas for participation in the Directive at the earliest opportunity. Following the approval of both Houses, the opt-in procedure with formal notifications to the European Coun- cil and the European Commission will commence. The European Commission then has four months from receipt of this letter to confirm our participation. During these four months, the State will be required to demonstrate to the Commission how it is compliant with each Article in the Directive.

The Government has agreed to establish an Implementation Group to oversee the opt-in procedure and the practical arrangements for facilitating access to the labour market for eligible applicants. The Group will be drawn from membership of the Taskforce, supplemented by the participation of relevant operational areas in the Department of Justice and Equality and other Departments as required.

In relation to access to further and higher education, a Pilot Support Scheme was introduced by the Department of Education and Skills in 2015 for students who are in the Protection Sys- tem or at the Leave to Remain (but not deportation order) stage. This was one of the recommendations contained in the report by the Working Group on the Protection Process which was chaired by former High Court judge, Dr. Bryan McMahon. The scheme provides supports to qualifying students which are similar to those available in the Student Grant Scheme. Following a review of the Pilot Support Scheme in 2016, a decision was made to continue the scheme for the 2017/18 academic year and to undertake a further review in 2018. To qualify for the pilot scheme, prospective students have to meet a number of criteria, including a requirement to:

- Meet the definition of a protection applicant or a person at leave to remain stage (other than those at the deportation order stage);

- Obtained their Leaving Certificate; 143 Questions - Written Answers - Have been accepted on an approved Post Leaving Certificate course or an approved un- dergraduate course;

- Have attended a minimum of five academic years in the Irish school system and have been part of an application for protection or leave to remain for a combined period of 5 years prior to the 31st of August of the first year of their course.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRK02500198. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current and-or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53553/17]

14/12/2017WRK02600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), written representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned.

These representations, together with all other information and documentation on file, will be fully considered, under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and all other applicable legislation, in advance of a final decision being made.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRL00200199. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53572/17]

14/12/2017WRL00300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to confirm to the Deputy that the information sought cannot be provided in the time allowed. As soon as the information has been collated I will write to the Deputy on the matter.

Prison Service

14/12/2017WRL00400200. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on the criticisms made of the Prison Service in a report (details supplied) concerning the transfer of a certain prisoner. [53582/17]

14/12/2017WRL00500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to advise the Dep- uty that the Director General of the Irish Prison Service accepted in full the recommendations contained in the Report of the Commission of Investigation into the Death of Gary Douche.

The Irish Prison Service developed a comprehensive Action Plan for the implementation of

144 14 December 2017 the Commission’s recommendations which were relevant to the Irish Prison Service.

A central recommendation of the Report related to the issue of inter-prison transfers. The Irish Prison Service developed a Protocol on the Transfer of Prisoners in response to the Re- port’s recommendations and this protocol was introduced in July 2014.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal

14/12/2017WRL00600201. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a hearing will take place in relation to an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53583/17]

14/12/2017WRL00700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy may be aware, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal administers the Scheme of Compensa- tion for Personal Injuries Criminally Inflicted. Under the terms of the Scheme, the Tribunal is entirely independent in considering applications made under the Scheme. However, to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made of the Tribunal.

The application referred to by the Deputy is the subject of an appeal by the applicant.

Appeals are heard by three Tribunal members and the Tribunal secretariat is currently preparing an extensive schedule of appeal hearings for the first half of 2018. Appeal hearings are planned on a chronological order. Based on the number of appeals on hand, the application referred to by the Deputy will be listed for appeal during the second quarter of 2018.

I understand that the Tribunal will write to applicants and/or their legal representatives in the coming weeks informing them of their appeal hearing dates.

Traveller Community

14/12/2017WRL00800202. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a court ruling (details supplied) will be examined to determine if recognition of Traveller ethnicity will require a legislative basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53611/17]

14/12/2017WRL00900Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy David Stanton): As you will appreciate, I cannot comment on the conduct of an individual court case.

As you are aware, the Traveller community campaigned for many years to have their unique heritage, culture and identity formally recognised by the Irish State. The recognition of Travel- lers as an Ethnic Group by the then Taoiseach last March, was a strong message from the State and a symbolic and positive step in acknowledging the uniqueness of Traveller identity.

This was welcomed by the Traveller Community as they felt it would resonate strongly among the community and help counter the stigma and shame felt by many, particularly young people, and increase feelings of respect, self-esteem and inclusion. It is hoped that, over time, this will create a new platform for positive engagement by the Traveller Community and Gov- ernment together in seeking solutions to tackling the social exclusion which Travellers face.

Travellers are, of course, already named as a protected group in our Equality legislation and the National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy 2017-2021 was launched by me last June.

It was made clear at the time of the statement in the Dáil last March that the recognition of

145 Questions - Written Answers Travellers as an Ethnic Group would not create any new individual, constitutional or financial rights because Travellers already enjoy all the human rights and responsibilities that are afforded all citizens under the Constitution and laws.

Garda Disciplinary Proceedings

14/12/2017WRL01000203. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps he is taking to ensure that there will be accountability for the estimated two million fake breath tests; if he will publish the statistics of these tests for each district of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53898/17]

14/12/2017WRL01100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will be aware, I have previously put on record my deep concern at the serious failures of the Garda organisation in relation to mandatory alcohol testing checkpoints (MATs) and fixed charge notices.

In relation to the particular issue of whether disciplinary action should be taken against individual members of An Garda Síochána arising from the mandatory alcohol testing checkpoints issues, this is solely a matter for the Garda Commissioner to decide under the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 2007.

During the most recent public meeting with the Policing Authority on 23 November, the Commissioner apologised for the significant organisational failure and acknowledged the resulting public disquiet.

At this meeting, the Commissioner stated that, taking into consideration that the Policing Authority examination found that the discrepancy between the PULSE figures and the devices was likely to be significantly greater than the 1.458 million figure already identified by the Garda authorities, the scale of such an investigation, its associated costs and resourcing requirement were significant factors in deciding not to undertake individual disciplinary actions. Further consideration was also given to the inevitability of legal challenges to such action, the passage of time, and associated retirements, and poor data quality, which would all have additional delay, cost or other implications.

The Commissioner informed the Authority that the decision to take a future-focused, restor- ative approach allowed An Garda Síochána to focus on strategic reforms, changes to culture and embedding the Code of Ethics and performance management system, along with improving data quality.

The Commissioner also confirmed that he will be issuing a personal directive to all members stating that distortion of data quality and data breaches will amount to a serious disciplinary matter and could, at the most serious level, result in dismissal. In addition, the Commissioner indicated that he would be specifically and individually writing to each Divisional manager to highlight their responsibilities in relation to supervision and accountability.

The Government established the Policing Authority to ensure oversight of policing practices, shed light on problems and identify solutions through its structured engagement with An Garda Síochána. I would draw the Deputy’s attention to the Policing Authority’s commentary on the Crowe Horwath report, where the Authority, in relation to this point, stated that “poor performance on a pervasive scale can seldom be appropriately addressed by disciplinary processes”. The Authority further commented that the focus should be on implementing a meaningful performance management system for both Garda members and civilians in 2018, so that there is a framework for the delivery of policing plans and ensuring accountability. 146 14 December 2017 The Authority went on to indicate that, unless there is prima facie evidence of either a criminal offence or a disciplinary breach having been committed, the core focus for An Garda Síochána should now be on rectifying the issues identified permanently across all dimensions, including procedures, technology, training, supervision and accountability. I fully expect the Commissioner to urgently address the issues highlighted by myself, by Crowe Horwath and by the Policing Authority and I welcome the continuing oversight of the Policing Authority in this respect. This Government has put in place significant Garda resources, both human and financial, but, as the Policing Authority has emphasised, cultural change within An Garda Síochána is of critical importance. This is why one of the Policing Authority’s first acts was to introduce a Garda Code of Ethics. Adherence to that code must become a fundamental part of our policing. I previously made clear to Commissioner Ó Cualáin that Garda management must ensure that all members are committed to the values the Code sets out. I am confident that he and his colleagues understand the importance of ensuring that cultural change goes hand in hand with systemic improvements. The Policing Authority has a critical role to play in supporting and overseeing this process. Moreover, it is important to remember that the expert Commission on the Future of Policing is undertaking a significant root and branch analysis of policing in Ireland. I have no doubt that this report will inform the Commission’s work to bring about the transformation of policing in this country. However, I fully acknowledge the vital work undertaken everyday by the women and men of An Garda Síochána to ensure the safety and security of the people of Ireland. I remain dedicated to doing everything in my power as Minis- ter, in conjunction with the Policing Authority, to ensure ethical and excellent policing, robust oversight and the modernisation of An Garda Síochána to ensure it can operate effectively and professionally in the public interest.

Finally, I would draw the Deputy’s attention to page 33 of Crowe Horwath’s report, which contains a table, outlining the regional and divisional discrepancies in breath test data across An Garda Síochána during the period June 2009 to April 2017. Statistical information is also available in An Garda Síochána’s internal examination into the recording of breath tests at MATs, published in September this year (Pages 52-55 refer).

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL01200204. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current and-or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53917/17]

14/12/2017WRL01300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I refer to my previous response to the Deputy on 28 September, 2017 in relation to this issue. I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that INIS has no record of correspondence since then in relation to the person’s current circumstances. I am further informed that it remains open to the person concerned to contact INIS directly in the matter.

Response to Parliamentary Question 41129/17 of 28 September 2017

I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that an application for residence in this State as a family member of an EU citizen was submitted by the person concerned on 5 January 2015. I am informed that the person concerned did not meet the criteria.

On 13 July 2015, INIS granted the person permission to reside in this State for one year under Stamp 4 conditions. INIS informed the person that further extension of that permission may be granted by the relevant local immigration officer subject to the applicant providing a 147 Questions - Written Answers valid passport and providing evidence of employment or self-sufficiency at that stage.

I am informed by INIS that when the person attended her local immigration office to seek the further permission it was declined, as the person did not appear to meet the required conditions. I understand that the person was advised to contact INIS directly in relation to the matter. INIS has no record of correspondence from the person concerned to date.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using Oireachtas Mail facility, which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited

Residency Permits

14/12/2017WRL01400205. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current and-or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53918/17]

14/12/2017WRL01500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the person concerned applied for residence permission and a right to work based on their parentage of an Irish citizen child on 23 May 2017. The Deputy will appreciate that applications are dealt with in chronological order. If further information or documentation is required, the person concerned will be contacted in writing by the relevant officials in my Department in due course.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL01600206. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency options available in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53919/17]

14/12/2017WRL01700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), written representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned.

The case of the person concerned is amongst many to be considered by the Minister at present and, as such, at this point in time, it is not possible to provide a specific indication as to when this case will be finalised. However, the person concerned can be assured that there will be no 148 14 December 2017 avoidable delay in having their case brought to finality

Immigration Policy

14/12/2017WRL01800207. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procedures to be followed to regularise residency in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53920/17]

14/12/2017WRL01900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned has not submitted written representations.

The position in the State of the person concerned will now be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and all other applicable legislation. If any representations are submitted, they will be considered before a final decision is made.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL02000208. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress to date in the determination of residency entitlement in the case of a person (details supplied) with particular reference to their stamp 4 application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53921/17]

14/12/2017WRL02100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), written representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. 149 Questions - Written Answers The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL02200209. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) who has lived here for more than ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53922/17]

14/12/2017WRL02300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the person concerned was granted leave to remain in the State for the period to 07 December 2017. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 07 December 2016.

The person concerned is required to apply in writing for the renewal of this permission. As my Department’s records show no evidence of such a renewal application having been made to date, it is recommended that the person concerned should do so without further delay.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL02400210. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when residency status in the context of stamp 4 citizenship will be awarded in the case of persons (details supplied); if their case will be urgently considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53923/17]

14/12/2017WRL02500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the processing of an application for a certificate of naturalisation on behalf of the first named person who currently has permission to reside in the State until 14 June 2018, is ongoing and will be submitted to me for decision as expeditiously as possible.

There is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the second person referred to by the Deputy. A determination on whether an applicant satisfies the statutory criteria attendant to naturalisation can only be made after an application is received.

It is open to any individual to lodge an application for a certificate of naturalisation if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory requirements as prescribed in the Irish Na- tionality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, which governs the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation.

Detailed information on Irish citizenship and naturalisation, as well as the relevant application forms, is available on the INIS website at www.inis.gov.ie. The website also contains guidance on the completion of an application for naturalisation and an on-line naturalisation residency calculator which individuals may find of assistance in establishing if the statutory residency requirements are met. 150 14 December 2017 Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL02600211. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the relevant section of his Department has received all papers required in connection with the examination of entitlement to residency in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53924/17]

14/12/2017WRL02700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), written representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned.

Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRL02800212. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status and possible entitlement to naturalisation in the case of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53925/17]

14/12/2017WRL02900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that requests were received for permission to remain in the State in respect of the persons concerned.

However, these cases are among a number of such cases which are currently being held by my Department pending the outcome of the appeal to the Supreme Court of the Court of Ap- peal judgment in Luximon v. Minister for Justice and Equality which was heard in the Supreme Court on 30 November 2017. A decision will issue in these cases when the matters before the Courts have been finalised.

151 Questions - Written Answers INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

14/12/2017WRM00150Naturalisation Applications

14/12/2017WRM00200213. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 121 of 30 November 2017, if on the basis of current circumstances they are likely to be eligible for consideration for naturalisation in the near future in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53926/17]

14/12/2017WRM00300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the persons referred to by the Deputy. A determination on whether an applicant satisfies the statutory criteria attendant to naturalisation can only be made after an application is received.

14/12/2017WRM00350Leave to Remain

14/12/2017WRM00400214. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if consideration will be given to an application for stamp 4 leave to remain in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53928/17]

14/12/2017WRM00500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that they have received a request for permission to remain in the State from the person concerned.

However, this case is among a number of cases which are currently being held by my De- partment pending the outcome of the appeal to the Supreme Court of the Court of Appeal judgment in Luximon v. Minister for Justice and Equality which was heard in the Supreme Court on 30 November 2017. A decision will issue in this case when the matters before the Courts have been finalised.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be 152 14 December 2017 obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.

14/12/2017WRM00550Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRM00600215. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will consider on humanitarian grounds the serious health condition of a person (details supplied) in relation to their case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53931/17]

14/12/2017WRM00700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the person concerned is the subject of a deportation order made on 11 March 2005.

The person was deported from the State on 04 June 2006, however, according to information received from her legal representatives, she returned to this State the year after she was deported.

Representations were received on behalf of the persons concerned requesting that the deportation orders be revoked, pursuant to the provisions of section 3(11) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended). This request will be considered as soon as possible. The Deputy might wish to note that the decision to ensue from the consideration of this request will be to have the existing deportation orders ‘affirmed’ or ‘revoked’. Once such a decision has been made, this decision will be notified in writing. In the meantime, the deportation orders remain valid and in place.

14/12/2017WRM00750Immigration Status

14/12/2017WRM00800216. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when consideration on humanity, compassionate and human rights grounds will be given in the case of a person (details supplied); if their case will be urgently reviewed in view of the circumstances with a view to granting residency status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53933/17]

14/12/2017WRM00900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the person concerned is the subject of a Deportation Order made on 12 November 2008, following the refusal of the international protection claim made by the person concerned and the detailed consideration of their case under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended). That Order remains valid and in place.

Representations were received from the person concerned requesting that the Deportation Order be revoked, pursuant to the provisions of section 3(11) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended). Following the consideration of that request, a decision was taken in August 2016 that the Deportation Order should be ‘affirmed’ and this decision was communicated to the

153 Questions - Written Answers person concerned by registered post dated 04 August 2016.

The Deputy might wish to note that the effect of a Deportation Order is that the person named on the Order is legally obliged to leave the State and to remain out of the State. The enforcement of the Deportation Order in this case is now an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.

14/12/2017WRM00950Residency Permits

14/12/2017WRM01000217. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 97 of 28 September 2017, the current and or expected entitlement to temporary permanent residency in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53934/17]

14/12/2017WRM01100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), written representations have been submitted on behalf of the person concerned.

Question No. 218 answered with Question No. 195.

14/12/2017WRN00150Garda Data

14/12/2017WRN00200219. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in counties Laois and Offaly in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53987/17]

14/12/2017WRN00300220. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in counties Carlow and Kilkenny in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53988/17]

14/12/2017WRN00400221. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of 154 14 December 2017 gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Waterford in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53989/17]

14/12/2017WRN00500222. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in west County Cork in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53990/17]

14/12/2017WRN00600223. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in north County Cork in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53991/17]

14/12/2017WRN00700224. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Kerry in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53992/17]

14/12/2017WRN00800225. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Limerick in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53993/17]

14/12/2017WRN00900226. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Clare in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53994/17]

14/12/2017WRN01000227. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Galway in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53995/17]

14/12/2017WRN01100228. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Mayo in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53996/17]

14/12/2017WRN01200229. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in counties Sligo and Leitrim in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53997/17]

14/12/2017WRN01300230. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Donegal in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53998/17]

14/12/2017WRN01400231. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [53999/17]

14/12/2017WRN01500232. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of 155 Questions - Written Answers gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Louth in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54000/17]

14/12/2017WRN01600233. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Meath in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54001/17]

14/12/2017WRN01700234. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Kildare in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54002/17]

14/12/2017WRN01800235. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Wicklow in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54003/17]

14/12/2017WRN01900236. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Westmeath in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54004/17]

14/12/2017WRN02000237. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in counties Longford and Roscommon in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54005/17]

14/12/2017WRN02100238. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Tipperary in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54006/17]

14/12/2017WRN02200239. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí, the number of Garda Reserve, the number of community gardaí and the number of civilian staff assigned to each Garda station in County Wexford in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54007/17]

14/12/2017WRN02300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 219 to 239, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Min- ister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. As the Deputy will be aware, this Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. To achieve this the Government has put in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. We are making real, tangible progress on achieving this goal. I am informed by the Commissioner that since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, just under 1,600 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned

156 14 December 2017 to mainstream duties nationwide. Garda numbers taking account of projected retirements, will increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - a net increase of 500 since the end of 2016. I am also pleased that Budget 2018 maintains this high level of investment in the Garda workforce and ensures that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. A further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College. This will see Garda numbers reach the 14,000 mark by the end of 2018. In addition, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited to fill critical skills gaps across the organisation and to facilitate the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative and technical duties to front-line operational duties. There are plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve with new Reserves expected to commence training early in 2018. This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, in the coming years. As the information requested by the Deputy, which relates to the period 2010 to 31 October 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, is very voluminous, I am arranging to have it forwarded in hard copy form.

14/12/2017WRO00200Naturalisation Applications

14/12/2017WRO00300240. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54008/17]

14/12/2017WRO00400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the processing of the application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy, who currently has permission to reside in the State until 18 March 2018, is ongoing.

A letter issued to the person concerned on 12 December 2017 requesting certain information. Upon receipt of the requested information the case will be further processed and will be submitted to me for decision as expeditiously as possible.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.

It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. While most straightforward cases are generally processed within six months, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.

14/12/2017WRO00500Public Relations Contracts Expenditure

157 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRO00600241. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of spending by his Department on external public relations in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54009/17]

14/12/2017WRO00700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): It has not been possible to answer this question in the time available. I will write to the Deputy directly in relation to this matter in due course.

14/12/2017WRO00800Prisoner Data

14/12/2017WRO00900242. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamen- tary Question No. 266 of 5 December 2017, if he will clarify that while the absolute numbers of prisoners on restricted regimes have decreased, the percentage of prisoners on restricted regimes has doubled between October 2013 and October 2017. [54017/17]

14/12/2017WRO01000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by my officials in the Irish Prison Service that the census of July 2013 recorded a total prisoner population of 4,180, 339 of which were subject to a restricted regime. Of this 339, 211 prisoners were on 22/23 hour lock up, a further 65 prisoners were on 21 hour lock up and 63 prisoners were on 19 hour lock up.

The October 2017 census reported a total prisoner population of 3,665. Of this figure, 428 prisoners were subject to a restricted regime. This included a total of 9 prisoners on 22/23 hour lock up, a reduction of 202 on the July 2013 figures. I wish to advise the Deputy that the total of 428 also includes 379 prisoners who had voluntarily requested protection under Rule 63.

The Prison Rules 2007 provide that the imposition of restricted regimes is closely monitored by the Irish Prison Service (IPS). The key statistics concerning prisoners on restricted regimes are collated by the IPS Statistics Unit for publication quarterly on its website (www.irishpris- ons.ie), under Census of Restricted Regime Prisoners July 2013 to October 2017.

14/12/2017WRO01100Legal Services Regulation

14/12/2017WRO01200243. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 224 of 14 November 2017, if the reports that the Legal Service Regulatory Authority forwarded to him, a section 119 report of public consultation on multidisciplinary practices and section 120 report of public consultation on certain matters relating to barristers, have been laid before Dáil Éireann; if not, the reasons for not laying these reports as mentioned in his initial response to that question; the date on which he will lay them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54133/17]

14/12/2017WRO01300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am happy to confirm by way of reply to Deputy Murphy that the two reports to which she has referred have been laid before each House of the Oireachtas as received and will also, I understand, be made similarly available on the web-site of the Legal Services Regulatory Authority, www.LSRA.ie.

14/12/2017WRO01400Cross-Border Co-operation

14/12/2017WRO01500244. Deputy Declan Breathnach asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the cross-Border crime agency; the number of staff involved and agencies engaged; the annual 158 14 December 2017 budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54151/17]

14/12/2017WRO01600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I take it that the Deputy is referring to the Joint Agency Task Force which is led by police and revenue services in Ireland and the Northern Ireland and brings together the relevant law enforcement agencies in both jurisdictions to better co-ordinate strategic and operational actions against cross-border organised crime. It involves senior officers from An Garda Síochána, the PSNI, the Revenue Commis- sioners and HM Revenue and Customs; it also includes the Criminal Assets Bureau and UK National Crime Agency (who have the primary role in criminal assets recovery) as well as other appropriate law enforcement services (such as environmental protection agencies and immigration services) when required by the operations of the Task Force. The establishment of the Joint Agency Task Force was a commitment of the Irish and British Governments in the 2015 Fresh Start Agreement and the Task Force has been operational since early 2016.

The Joint Agency Task Force consists of a Strategic Oversight Group which identifies and manages the strategic priorities for combatting cross-jurisdictional organised crime and an Op- erations Co-ordination Group which co-ordinates joint operations and directs the necessary multi-agency resources for those operations.

As the Joint Agency Task Force is a multi-agency coordination structure is does not have a defined staffing complement or budget. Personnel from the participating agencies in both -ju risdictions are assigned for specific operations. Similarly, budget resources are deployed from the various elements of an Garda Síochána, the Criminal Assets Bureau and other agencies as necessary for particular operational requirements.

I am very satisfied with the operation of the Joint Agency Task Force in the two years since its inception. There have, for example, been specific operations targeting rural crime, child sexual exploitation and human trafficking for labour exploitation that have resulted in a number of arrests, the seizure of stolen vehicles, equipment and other goods, cash and drugs and the identification by the Revenue services of unregistered business interests. In respect of rural crime, there was also a specific focus on awareness-raising and providing crime prevention advice at community level on both sides of the border.

The Joint Agency Task Force is just one example of the extensive co-operation that is undertaken between police and criminal justice agencies in the State and in Northern Ireland. I commend the work of all of the agencies involved in combatting cross-border criminal activity.

14/12/2017WRO01700Gender Equality

14/12/2017WRO01800245. Deputy Fiona O’Loughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce gender quotas for the boards of publicly listed companies here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54154/17]

14/12/2017WRO01900Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy David Stanton): The National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020 contains the following actions:

“4.1 Commission an independent review of the situation of women in the governance and senior management of companies in Ireland and of measures to promote and to increase women’s representation, such as targets for business.

4.2 Informed by the recommendations of the independent review (at action 4.1), develop and implement a package of measures to promote greater representation of women on corporate boards and in the senior management of companies.” 159 Questions - Written Answers I hope to be in a position to make an announcement about the independent review early in the New Year.

14/12/2017WRP00150Garda Transport Data

14/12/2017WRP00200246. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in counties Laois and Offaly in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54161/17]

14/12/2017WRP00300247. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in counties Carlow and Kilkenny in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54162/17]

14/12/2017WRP00400248. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Waterford in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54163/17]

14/12/2017WRP00500249. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in west County Cork in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54164/17]

14/12/2017WRP00600250. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in north County Cork in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54165/17]

14/12/2017WRP00700251. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Kerry in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54166/17]

14/12/2017WRP00800252. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Limerick in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54167/17]

14/12/2017WRP00900253. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Clare in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54168/17]

14/12/2017WRP01000254. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Galway in each of the years 2010 to 2017. [54169/17]

14/12/2017WRP01100255. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Mayo in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54170/17]

14/12/2017WRP01200256. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in counties Sligo and Leitrim in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54171/17]

14/12/2017WRP01300257. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Donegal in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54172/17]

14/12/2017WRP01400258. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of

160 14 December 2017 Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in counties Cavan and Monaghan in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54173/17]

14/12/2017WRP01500259. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Louth in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54174/17]

14/12/2017WRP01600260. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Meath in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54175/17]

14/12/2017WRP01700261. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Kildare in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54176/17]

14/12/2017WRP01800262. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Wicklow in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54177/17]

14/12/2017WRP01900263. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Westmeath in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54178/17]

14/12/2017WRP02000264. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in counties Longform and Roscommon in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54179/17]

14/12/2017WRP02100265. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Tipperary in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54180/17]

14/12/2017WRP02200257. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda cars assigned to each Garda station in County Donegal in each of the years 2010 to 2017, in tabular form. [54172/17]

14/12/2017WRP02300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 246 to 265, inclusive, and 267 together.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of Garda resources, including vehicles, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.

I understand that the allocation of Garda vehicles is monitored and reviewed by the Garda authorities on a continual basis. The responsibility for the efficient deployment of all official Garda vehicles in each Division is assigned to the Divisional Officer, who may allocate vehicles between stations as required by operational requirements.

The Deputy will be aware that there has been unprecedented Government investment in the Garda fleet in recent years with some €46 million being invested over the lifetime of the Gov- ernment’s Capital Plan 2016 - 2021 to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit for purpose fleet.

Below is a table indicating a total of Garda cars for each of the Garda Divisions requested between the years 2010 to 2017.

[Tables]

Question No. 265 answered with Question No. 246.

Disability Statistics

14/12/2017WRQ00300266. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to recent research which found two-thirds of disabled persons were out of work; the steps he is taking to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54184/17]

14/12/2017WRQ00400Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy Finian McGrath): I am aware of the statistic to which the Deputy refers. It is a priority for me to ensure that people with disabilities, who are able to and want to work, are fully supported and enabled to do so.

As the Deputy will be aware, in July of this year I launched the new National Disability Inclusion Strategy 2017 - 2021. This Strategy is a whole of Government approach to improving the lives of people with disabilities both in a practical sense, and also in creating the best possible opportunities for people with disabilities to fulfil their potential. The Strategy focuses on eight vital areas, one of which is Employment. Five high level objectives in relation to Employ- ment are identified as follows:

- People with disabilities are encouraged and motivated to develop to the maximum of their potential, with a view to participating in further education and employment.

- People with disabilities have the opportunity to work and have a career.

- People who become disabled are given the supports they need to remain in or return work if they so choose.

- People with disabilities are financially better off in work.

- Employers can easily access information about employing a person with a disability.

These objectives are underpinned by 11 specific, measureable and time bound actions. In particular I would bring the Deputy’s particular attention to Action 47, “We will fully implement the Comprehensive Employment Strategy for persons with disabilities.”

As the Deputy will be aware, the Comprehensive Employment Strategy was launched in Oc- tober 2015. The Strategy sets out a ten-year cross-government approach that brings together actions by different Departments and State agencies in a concerted effort to address the barriers and challenges that impact on employment of people with disabilities. In tandem with that, it seeks to ensure there will be joined-up services and supports at local level to support individuals on their journey into and in employment. The Strategy’s six strategic priorities are:

- Build skills, capacity and independence

- Provide bridges and supports into work

- Make work pay (the Make Work Pay Report was launched in April 2016 and many of its recommendations are already being implemented).

- Promote job retention and re-entry to work

- Provide coordinated and seamless support

162 14 December 2017 - Engage employers

The Comprehensive Employment Strategy includes a range of practical measures to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. For example, a national employer helpline was launched in January 2016 to provide expert guidance and peer support to employers in relation to the employment of staff with disabilities. There will be an increase in the public sector employment quota from 3% to 6% on a phased basis to 2024, and arrangements are also being put in place for dedicated recruitment channels for people with disabilities.

Given the complex cross-government nature of the strategy, an oversight implementation group was established in 2015 under the independent chairmanship of Fergus Finlay. This group is tasked with monitoring the progress of the six strategic priorities of the strategy, ensuring that each Government Department is fulfilling its obligations and meeting its targets. The Chair’s first annual report is available here: http://justice.ie/en/JELR/Report_of_the_Chair_of_the_ Comprehensive_Employment_Strategy_Implementation_Group-2016.pdf/Files/Report_of_ the_Chair_of_the_Comprehensive_Employment_Strategy_Implementation_Group-2016.pdf.

The Chair will publish his second Annual Report in early 2018.

Question No. 267 answered with Question No. 246.

Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRQ00600268. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54232/17]

14/12/2017WRQ00700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to refer the Deputy to the previous Parliamentary Question No. 84 of 13 December 2016 (39474/16), which provides details of photography costs incurred by my Department from 2011 – 2016.

Details of photography costs for my Department in 2017 are as follows:

Occasion Year Photographer Cost Video of the launch of the 2017 Hurrah Hurrah €20,295 new National Disability Limited Inclusion Strategy I can inform the Deputy that external photographic services are only occasionally used by my Department, to mark and provide a record of significant occasions - in-house communications staff are used on most occasions. Consideration is given at all times to the costs involved and best value for money is always a priority when sourcing such services.

The Deputy may wish to note that questions concerning Ministerial allowances are solely a matter for the Oireachtas.

Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRQ00800269. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the use of external

163 Questions - Written Answers public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54248/17]

14/12/2017WRQ00900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): During the period in question, my Department has only used the services of external public relations firms to provide training to staff, strategy development, and facilitation services at conferences/meetings, as set out in the table below:

Year Public Relations Firm Training Strategy De- Conference/ velopment Meeting Facili- tation € € € 2011 Carr Communications 550 2013 Carr Communications 3,275 2014 The Communications 1,374 Clinic 2015 The Communications 756 Clinic 2016 The Communications 24,221 Clinic 2016 Carr Communications 1,450 It is my Department’s policy to use in-house resources as much as possible for the provision of such services.

14/12/2017WRQ00950Departmental Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRQ01000270. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54264/17]

14/12/2017WRQ01100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to confirm to the Deputy that the information sought cannot be provided in the time allowed. As soon as the information has been collated I will write to the Deputy on the matter.

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRQ01200271. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54280/17]

14/12/2017WRQ01300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): In response to the Depu- ty’s question, please see below a table setting out the details of costs in respect of public information campaigns.

164 14 December 2017 Dates of campaign Name of Campaign Where advertise- Cost of campaign€ advertisement ment was placed i.e. regional/national paper/online 15-31 October 2017 Blue blindfold cam- Metro Éireann, a €1,291.50 paign (Human Traf- multicultural news- ficking awareness paper. Throughout 2017 National awareness Online (digital, €94,518.69 campaign ‘What search and social would you do?’ (in advertising) relation to domestic violence) Throughout 2017 National awareness National, regional €38,298.70 campaign ‘What and specialist print would you do?’ (in relation to domestic violence) October 2017 Victims of Crime National newspa- €2,691.88 Office 2018 Fund- pers ing - Advertisement in National News- papers: Irish Times/ Irish Independent/ Irish Examiner 25 August 2017. Public consultation National newspapers €3,029.25. on tackling the gender pay gap. 22 October to 31 Fireworks Informa- National newspa- €36,676.44 October 2017 (inclu- tion Notice regarding pers sive) the severe criminal penalties that apply for igniting illegal fireworks and the possession of same with intent to supply others

Departmental Agencies Expenditure

14/12/2017WRQ01400272. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Ddepartment from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54296/17]

14/12/2017WRQ01500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to confirm to the Deputy that the information sought cannot be provided in the time allowed. As soon as the information has been collated I will write to the Deputy on the matter.

165 Questions - Written Answers Brexit Documents

14/12/2017WRQ01600273. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the name of all internal reports and research studies conducted or commissioned by her Department and the agencies under her aegis since June 2016 on Brexit regarding SMEs, exports, trade and tariffs; the publication date of all such studies; the reports and research studies that remain in- complete; the date they are expected to be completed; and if each publication will be published. [53687/17]

14/12/2017WRQ01700Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Deputy will be aware of the various research projects underway in my Department to help build an understanding of the possible implications of Brexit on Ireland for enterprise, consumers and trading relations. These studies will provide an evidence base to inform Ireland’s policy positions as part of the wider negotiation on the UK’s future relationship with the EU and further mitigation measures to respond to Brexit.

The details of Brexit related research currently being commissioned by my Department are as follows:

- A survey “Brexit – The View of Irish SMEs” was commissioned in December 2016, and was published in May 2017

- A subsequent survey “Brexit Vote – The impact on Irish SMEs and their Capital Funding” was commissioned in July 2017, and has been completed. It is due to be published in Q1 2018.

- The study into the “Strategic Implications arising from EU-UK Trading Patterns” was commissioned in June 2017, is on target for completion at the end of 2017 with key findings due to be published in Q1 2018.

- The study into “ Firm level implications arising from Brexit: Most exposed sectors” was commissioned in June 2017 with key findings due to be published in Q2 2018.

- The study on the “Import Content of Irish Exports and Implications of Brexit” was commissioned in September 2017 and is due to be completed by Q1 2018 and published in Q2 2018.

Trade Missions Data

14/12/2017WRQ01725274. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the trade missions that are scheduled for 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53967/17]

14/12/2017WRQ01750Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation(Deputy Heather Humphreys): Pro- posals for trade missions are developed by Enterprise Ireland in consultation with my Depart- ment on the basis of priority markets and specific interests of Enterprise Ireland client companies. Enterprise Ireland’s proposals for 2018 are currently under consideration and have not yet been finalised. Once finalised, Enterprise Ireland will submit the proposals to me for approval and the planned schedule of trade missions and events will be made public.

The extensive trade mission list will focus on enabling Enterprise Ireland client companies take advantage of global growth opportunities. The Enterprise Ireland Strategy 2017-2020 ‘Build Scale, Expand Reach’ is about strengthening Irish enterprise, across all regions, and expanding their reach in diverse global markets. In the context of the significant international economic challenges facing Ireland, most notably the United Kingdom decision to leave the 166 14 December 2017 EU, it is imperative that Irish companies build new and stronger trade links around the globe. Ministerial-led trade missions and international events are essential to supporting Irish companies expand their global footprint and realise their full growth potential.

Enterprise Ireland has delivered an impressive programme of international trade events to date in 2017, giving Irish companies the opportunity to meet with potential buyers and network with key influencers in countries around the world. In total, 57 internationally focused trade events were organised by Enterprise Ireland in 2017 including ministerial-led trade missions to Canada, Singapore and Japan, the UAE and Oman, and a major trade programme as part of the State visit to Australia.

Agrifood Sector

14/12/2017WRQ01800275. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if consideration will be given to designating Naas, County Kildare and surrounding areas as a food hub, in view of the strong agri-food sector in the locality; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53536/17]

14/12/2017WRQ01900Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): In this year’s, Action Plan for Jobs, we made the decision to place a specific focus on strengthening the rural and regional economy.

Last Monday 11th December 2017, I announced the results of the first round of the new €60m competitive Regional Enterprise Development Fund. This Fund allows us to drive growth in key sectors or geographies across the country and build on our strengths, particularly in the context of Brexit. Therefore, while there is no Government plan to formally designate Naas as a food hub, we are backing local and regional stakeholders to drive the future of their own communities by supporting their innovative proposals which will help to deliver job creation and sustainable employment.

Twenty-one successful applicants representing all regions of the country have secured up to €30.5m for their projects in the first competitive call. The Fund, which is an open national competitive call to support regional projects, is provided by my Department through Enterprise Ireland and is a key action to support the Regional Action Plan for Jobs and the Action Plan for Rural Development.

Our aim is to provide financial support for organisations set up specifically to bring together stakeholders on projects that will benefit the local community, the region or nationally. The successful applicants include an exciting range of projects which will develop strong entrepre- neurial or innovation ecosystems, encourage clusters of similar businesses, or develop specific sectors where there is the potential for competitive advantage.

The second call opens in March 2018 and we expect to see a similar level of interest from new applicants as well as applications from some first-round applicants who may wish to reap- ply. My Department through Enterprise Ireland look forward to supporting more regionally- based projects as they support business growth through this exciting, regionally-focused initiative.

Details of the Regional Enterprise Development Fund second call is available on Enterprise Ireland’s website www.enterprise-ireland.com/REDF.

Commencement of Legislation 167 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRQ02000276. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within her area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53561/17]

14/12/2017WRQ02100Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): De- tails of Acts, or parts of Acts, for which I have responsibility and which have not been commenced, and the reasons that commencement orders have not been made, are set out in the table.

Act/Section of Act that has not been Commenced Reason Commencement Order has not been made Legal Metrology (Measuring Instruments) Act (No. 31 of The Legal Metrology (Measuring Instruments) Act 2017 2017) was signed by the President on 28 November 2017. That Act transposes Articles 1 and 3 of Directive 2014/32 EU on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of measuring instruments. The remainder of that Directive is being transposed by way of Statutory Instrument (S.I.) under section 3 of the European Communities Act 1972. On the advice of the Attorney General, the Act and S.I. must come into effect on the same date. Drafting of the S.I. is virtually completed. Accordingly, I hope to commence the Act and the S.I. later this month. S. 98 of the Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000 There is no intention to commence this section barring exceptional circumstances S. 199 of the Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000 There is no intention to commence this section barring exceptional circumstances S. 247 of the Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000 There is no intention to commence this section barring exceptional circumstances Consumer Protection Act 2007 Sections 48 and 49 Sections 48 and 49 of the Consumer Protection Act 2007 have not been commenced as the Attorney General has advised that their provisions are incompatible with the maximum harmonisation nature of the Directive on Unfair Commercial Practices which was transposed into Irish law by the Consumer Protection Act 2007. Section 48 prohibits traders, who accept payment for goods and services by different relevant methods (defined as cash, credit card, direct debit, or any other method prescribed by the Minis- ter for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation) from imposing an additional charge by reason of customers choosing to pay for goods or services by one relevant method as against another. Section 49 provides that, where it is permissible for a trader to impose a payment charge in accordance with section 48 (i.e. where the trader accepts only one relevant method of payment or imposes the same charge in respect of all relevant methods of payment), the trader must state the price of the goods or service as a single amount inclusive of any such charge. Companies Act 2014 Section 4(2) Section 1325 Section 4(2) in so far as it relates to Regulation 6 of the EuropeanCommunities (Mergers and Divisions of Companies) (Amendment)Regulations 2011 (S.I. No.306 of 2011) The full repeal of Regulation 6 of the European Communities (Mergers and Divisions of Companies) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 was not possible due to a difference in national law requirements on mergers concerning notice requirements and those provided for in the EU regulations on cross-border mergers. The reason why this section has not commenced is because it would repeal the foundation documents of the Bank of Ireland. The section will only be commenced once Bank of Ireland decides to convert to a company incorporated under the Companies Act 2014.

168 14 December 2017

Act/Section of Act that has not been Commenced Reason Commencement Order has not been made Companies (Accounting Act) 2017 Section 80 Commencement of this section was delayed to ensure that the new filing requirements of unlimited companies that are registered outside of Ireland are aligned with the new filing requirements on unlimited companies that are registered in Ireland. Section 80 of the 2017 Act amends the definitions of an “EEA company” and a “non-EEA company” in section 1300 of the Companies Act 2014. These definitions are for the purposes of Part 21 of the 2014 Act, which provides for “external companies”. An external company is a company incorporated outside of Ireland with a branch in Ireland. The main change is that the two definitions now extend to external companies registered as companies with unlimited liability but whose members’ liability is in fact limited. As a result, some unlimited companies incorporated outside of Ireland that do not qualify currently as external companies, will, once section 80 is commenced, become classified as external companies and so will be required to comply with the obligations on an external company almost. As a result, some of those companies could have had to provide financial information in respect of financial years earlier than those beginning on 1 January 2017. Under the commencement arrangements for the rest of the Act, a similarly structured company, registered in Ireland, is required to first file- fi nancial statements in respect of years that begin on or after 1 January 2017. Delay of section 80 will align the requirements for similar companies, whether registered in Ireland or not. A revised order that will commence the section on 9 June 2018 is being prepared by the OPC. Sections 65 to 70 of the Workplace Relations Act, 2015 The Workplace Relations Commission was established on the 1st October 2015 under the Workplace Relations Act, 2015 and saw the merging of the activities of the National Employment Rights Authority, the Labour Relations Com- mission, the Equality Tribunal and the first instance functions of the Labour Court and the Employment Appeals Tribunal into a new Body of First Instance - the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The appellate functions of the Employment Appeals Tribunal were incorporated into an expanded Labour Court. Sections 65 to 70 inclusive of the Workplace Relations Act, 2015 relate to the dissolution of the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) and cannot be commenced until the legacy caseload of the EAT has been finalised. The legacy caseload relates to cases submitted prior to the commencement of the Act on 1 October 2015 and has decreased to the point that there are currently less than 100 cases on hands. Subsections (5)(b) and (6) of section 15 of the Employ- Commencement of these provisions will be subject to the ment Permits (Amendment) Act 2014 outcome of pending consultations. The provisions provide for a portion of the employment permit fee to be refunded to a person nominated by the applicant where the application is withdrawn or refused. Currently, fees are refunded to the applicant only. These provisions may commence when the necessary changes are made to the employment permits processing system to support such a policy change, subject to further consultations. The employment permit processing system has not yet been adapted to support the refund of fees to a person other than applicant. If it is considered necessary to do so, consultation will need to take place with the relevant bodies as regards other legislation and any unintended impact of this provision, e.g. The Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financ- ing) Act 2010, as amended, etc.

169 Questions - Written Answers

Act/Section of Act that has not been Commenced Reason Commencement Order has not been made Section 4(2) of Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act (i.)Mines and Quarries Act 1965 (in as much as it relates 2005 (No. 10 of 2005) in respect of the revocation of to Mines), Regulations to bring occupational safety and certain enactments health for mines under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 are currently being settled by the Of- fice of the Parliamentary Counsel and it is hoped will be introduced in 2018 to allow for the introduction of a Commencement Order to enact this subsection of the Act. (ii.)Dangerous Substances Acts 1972 and 1979, The Dangerous Substances regime is subject to an ongoing review and upon completion appropriate legislation will be introduced. (iii.)Safety in Industry Acts 1955 and 1980, Regulations relating to certain work sectors remain to be finalised and brought under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, these are currently with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to the Government for settlement and it is hoped will be introduced in 2018 to allow for the introduction of a Commencement Order to enact this subsection of the Act. (iv.) Safety, Health and Welfare (Offshore Installations) Acts 1987 and 1995. It is the intention to introduce Regulations under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 to ensure the sector specific provisions are protected and aligned under the umbrella of the Act. Part II of the Dangerous Substances Act 1972 (No. 10 of There is no intention to introduce a commencement order 1972), Section 7 (1) and the Schedule to that Act in so for these sections as the responsibility for legislation on far as they refer to the Towns Improvement (Ireland) Act explosives rests with the Minister for Justice and Equality 1854, the Explosives Act 1875, the Customs and Inland Revenue Act 1883, the Local Government (Ireland) Act 1898 and the Revenue Act 1909 Section 7 (2) of that Act, and any other provision of the Dangerous Substances Act 1972, to the extent that the provision is applicable to or for the purposes of explosives within the meaning of section 9 (1) of that Act

Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRQ02200277. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Inno- vation the status of progress to date by the CCPC regarding enforcement of the grocery goods regulations and monitoring compliance; the number of investigations undertaken in response to complaints under the grocery goods regulations; the number of enforcement actions made; the number of cases which concluded with fines issued; the amount in euro of fines issued; and the number of collected and uncollected fines, in tabular form. [53641/17]

14/12/2017WRQ02300Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory independent body responsible for the enforcement of domestic and EU competition and consumer protection law in the State. Section 9 (5) of the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 provides that the CCPC is independent in the performance of its functions. I, as the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, have no direct function in such matters.

The Consumer Protection Act 2007 (Grocery Goods Undertakings) Regulations 2016 entered into force on 30 April 2016.

Under Section 18(1) of the Regulations, a relevant grocery goods undertaking (RGGU) is required to submit an annual compliance report in respect of its obligations under the Regula- tions for the previous 12 months to the CCPC by 31 March each year. The first annual compliance reports covering the period from 30th April 2016 to 31st December 2016 were due on 31st March 2017. I am informed that annual compliance reports were received from all undertakings that have notified the CCPC of their status as an RGGU under the Regulations. The next com- 170 14 December 2017 pliance reports which cover the period from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017 will be due for submission to the CCPC on 31 March 2018.

The enforcement information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Information sought Current position The number of investigations undertaken in response to The CCPC has received no complaints to date regarding complaints under the grocery goods Regulations. non-compliance with the Regulations and therefore has not initiated any investigations or undertaken any enforcement action. The number of enforcement actions made. Nil The number of cases which were concluded with fines Nil. issued. The amount in euro of fines issued. Nil. The number of collected and uncollected fines. Nil.

14/12/2017WRR00150Farm Safety

14/12/2017WRR00200278. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and In- novation the 2018 allocation by the Health and Safety Authority for farm safety initiatives. [53652/17]

14/12/2017WRR00300Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Health and Safety Authority has recently received notification of its Exchequer funding allocation for 2018 and it will shortly determine funding allocations across its various work sectors including farm safety initiatives. These funding allocations can vary from year to year as the Authority decides on how to prioritise its non-pay funding in line with its overall Programme of Work. It is likely that projected expenditure on farm safety initiatives in 2018 will at least be maintained at 2017 levels i.e. €287,000 approximately. The HSA’s Programme of Work for 2018 is near completion. The funding allocations will be subject to final approval by the Board of the Authority.

It should also be noted that the Authority has recently completed a recruitment campaign for 11 inspector posts, six of which are field inspection posts who will have an involvement in future farm inspection campaigns. Four of these six posts have been filled and will be starting with the Authority in early January 2018.

The priority tasks for the HSA in relation to engagement with the farming sector for 2018 will continue to include the following;

- ongoing delivery of the Farm Safety Partnership Action Plan, 2016 to 2018;

- continuing awareness campaigns through the media, events and advertising targeted at the agricultural sector;

- promotion of good health for farmers;

- roll out of the revised Code of Practice on farm safety;

- finalising an e-learning tool on tractor and machinery safety;

- focusing on child safety on farms through programmes at primary and post-primary school level, letters have already issued to over 3,000 such schools;

- engagement of all representative organisations and stakeholders in the challenge;

171 Questions - Written Answers In addition, I will continue to work with, and support, the Health and Safety Authority on the development of targeted initiatives in 2018 to seek through a collaborative approach to reduce the level of accidents and fatalities on farms in Ireland.

Health and Safety Inspections

14/12/2017WRR00400279. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Inno- vation the number of the sanctioned recruitment of six inspector posts for the farm inspection programme for the HSA that have been filled to date. [53653/17]

14/12/2017WRR00500Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) recently completed a recruitment campaign for 11 inspector posts, six of which are field inspection posts and these six inspectors will have an involvement in future farm inspection campaigns. Four of the six posts have been filled and the inspectors will be starting on January 8th. The HSA is awaiting approval for the contract of one other field inspector from my Department which is currently under consideration and once that approval is obtained a contract will be issued. The remaining field inspector candidate has just completed Garda clearance and this contract will shortly be submitted by the HSA to my Department for approval.

IDA Ireland Offices

14/12/2017WRR00600280. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the details of each international IDA office abroad; the location of each; the number of full-time and part-time staff employed in each; and the costs of offices and staffing for each international office on an annual basis, in tabular form. [53662/17]

14/12/2017WRR00700Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): At present, IDA Ireland has 21 overseas offices located across the Americas, Asia and Europe.

The Agency does not publicly release the specific cost breakdown of individual offices, as these details are sensitive in the context of international competition for foreign direct investment. The Agency can, however, provide the total costs associated with the network of offices abroad for 2016 which are outlined below:

Staff Costs - €10,802,000

Non Staff Costs - €5,174,000

The table sets out the location of the Agency’s offices abroad and the number of IDA employees employed at each:

Office Staff No. US New York 12 Boston 3 Mountain View 8 Irvine 6 Austin 2 Atlanta 2

172 14 December 2017 Office Staff No. Chicago 5

Europe London 8 Paris 3 Frankfurt 2 Asia/PAC Australia 2 Korea 1 Japan 3 Mumbai 4 Bangalore 1 Taiwan 1 Shanghai 3 Shenzhen 2 Beijing 1 Russia 1 Brazil 1

Enterprise Ireland

14/12/2017WRR00800281. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the details of international Enterprise Ireland offices abroad; the location of each; number of full- time and part-time staff employed in each; and the costs of offices and staffing for each international office on an annual basis, in tabular form. [53663/17]

14/12/2017WRR00900Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): En- terprise Ireland works with Irish companies to help them identify opportunities in new markets. Through its network of 33 overseas offices and its extended Pathfinder (Trade Consultant) network, Enterprise Ireland provides client companies with appropriate support in markets where there are identified opportunities matched by client capability. In addition to incubation and hot- desking facilities, Enterprise Ireland’s client companies receive access to market knowledge on a sectoral basis; introductions to buyers/suppliers/partners; and market intelligence, such as competitor analysis and identification of professional services. Enterprise Ireland client exports grew by 6% in 2016, reaching a record high of €21.6bn.

Enterprise Ireland provides a range of financial and capability development supports in its Dublin and regional offices, aimed at helping client companies to compete and win sales in overseas markets.

The locations of Enterprise Ireland’s overseas offices, the costs involved in running these offices in 2016, and the current number of full and part-time staff employed in each of these offices are set out in the tables below.

Table 1: Cost (pay and non-pay) of running Enterprise Ireland’s overseas offices in 2016

173 Questions - Written Answers Office Location Total (€) LONDON 2,702,458 DUSSELDORF 1,309,755 STOCKHOLM 755,659 PARIS 964,000 AMSTERDAM 531,740 BRUSSELS 320,934 PRAGUE 256,174 BUDAPEST 50,348 WARSAW 547,863 MOSCOW 374,447 MADRID 344,482 MILAN 584,529 RIYADH 482,123 DUBAI 1,318,331 SOUTH AFRICA 496,618 ISTANBUL 428,881 DOHA 159,598 ABU DHABI 107,286 NEW YORK 2,642,358 BOSTON 652,311 MOUNTAIN VIEW 1,114,383 TORONTO 400,390 BRAZIL 307,361 AUSTIN 518,927 SINGAPORE 762,702 TOKYO 779,881 HONG KONG 362,595 BEIJING 612,275 SHANGHAI 1,425,348 SEOUL 339,480 SYDNEY 859,815 INDIA 381,869 PERTH 17,443 Total 22,912,364 Table 2: Number of full time and part time staff employed in Enterprise Ireland’s overseas offices

Office Full Time Staff Part Time Staff Total Staff Numbers ABU DHABI 1 1 AMSTERDAM 3 3 AUSTIN 3 3 BEIJING 4 4

174 14 December 2017 Office Full Time Staff Part Time Staff Total Staff Numbers BOSTON 3 3 BRUSSELS 3 1 4 CHICAGO 1 1 DOHA 1 1 DUBAI 8 8 DUSSELDORF 12 3 15 HONG KONG 2 2 ISTANBUL 1 1 JOHANNESBURG 2 2 LONDON 15 1 16 MADRID 5 5 MILAN 3 2 5 MOSCOW 3 3 MOUNTAIN VIEW 6 6 NEW DELHI 4 4 NEW YORK 10 10 PARIS 7 7 PRAGUE 4 4 RIYADH 3 3 SAO PAULO 1 1 SEOUL 2 2 SHANGHAI 5 5 SINGAPORE 6 6 STOCKHOLM 6 6 SYDNEY 8 8 TOKYO 5 5 TORONTO 5 5 WARSAW 4 4 Total 146 7 153 Note: The staff numbers include expats, locally hired staff and staff participating in En- terprise Ireland’s International Graduate Programme. The numbers do not include approved vacancies.

Brexit Documents

14/12/2017WRR01000282. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of companies that have completed the Brexit scorecard to date since it was established, by company size (details supplied), in tabular form. [53664/17]

14/12/2017WRR01100Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Brexit Scorecard was launched by Enterprise Ireland in March 2017. It is an interactive online platform which can be used by Irish companies to self-assess their exposure to Brexit.

Businesses that complete the online questionnaire are assessed on their levels of preparedness under six key pillars - Business Strategy, Operations, Innovation, Sales and Marketing, 175 Questions - Written Answers Finance and People Management. On completion, the Scorecard generates a report which contains a number of suggested actions that businesses can take to prepare for Brexit, alongside other resources such as information on upcoming events across the country.

The Scorecard is available to all companies looking to develop an action plan to help mitigate risks and leverage opportunities which may arise from Brexit. To date 1,909 companies have used the EI Brexit Scorecard to help assess their level of preparedness for Brexit. This included both EI clients and non-EI clients.

For Enterprise Ireland clients, a ‘Be Prepared Grant’ has been introduced, which offers up to €5,000 in funding to support exporting client companies develop a Brexit Action Plan.

The breakdown of the 1909 companies that have completed the Brexit Scorecard, are contained in the table below.

Total Engaged with Scorecard 1909 Number of Employees Number of Companies <10 546 10 to 49 435 50 to 150 169 151 to 249 53 >250 78 Not specified 628

Brexit Staff

14/12/2017WRR01200283. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of full-time and part-time staff in the dedicated Brexit unit within her Department broken down by staff grade; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53665/17]

14/12/2017WRR01300Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): In 2016, my Department established a dedicated Brexit Unit to deal with the challenges of Brexit. This Unit leads on the coordination of the Department’s policy and operational responses to Brexit, including our approach to the negotiations within the EU and bilateral relations with the UK. The Brexit Unit oversees research and analysis being undertaken by the Department and its Agencies and monitors research published by external bodies to better inform our policy response. The Unit also leads on engagement with a broad range of stakeholders to inform and validate our response to Brexit.

The Brexit Unit is led at Assistant Secretary level within the EU Affairs and Trade Policy Division, and is supported by one Principal, three Assistant Principals, two Higher Executive Officers and one Clerical Officer.

Grade Full-Time/Part-Time Number Principal Officer Full-Time 1 Assistant Principal Officer Full-Time 3 Higher Executive Officer Full-Time 2 Clerical Officer Full-Time 1 Responding to Brexit is a key priority for my Department given its impact across most policy and operational areas. As such, work is underway across the Department to identify impacts of different scenarios and responses required to mitigate risks and maximise opportunities

176 14 December 2017 associated with Brexit.

EU Meetings

14/12/2017WRR01400284. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the details of each specific EU Competitiveness Council Ministers meeting in which she or her pre- decessors made the case for the need for a revision of State aid rules to protect Irish enterprises and related jobs during the UK’s two-year exit phase from the EU and subsequent transition phase; the date of each meeting in which this was raised, in tabular form; the progress made at EU level to increase state aid thresholds to support Irish enterprises from a hard Brexit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53666/17]

14/12/2017WRR01500Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Since the Brexit Referendum, my predecessor, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, attended meetings of the Competitiveness Council on 29th September 2016, 28th November 2016 and 20th February 2017. State Aid rules did not feature on the agenda of these meetings. The Competitiveness Council is a consultative committee and is not a forum for direct representations from Member States. Nor does the Council propose changes to State Aid rules.

Brexit was a central part of the discussions at meetings my predecessor, Frances Fitzgerald, had with both EU Commissioners and Ministers from other Member States. This included a meeting with the EU’s Chief Brexit Negotiator, Michel Barnier in July 2017 where the difficulties Ireland is facing as a result of Brexit were discussed.

In addition, Officials of my Department have had discussions with senior officials from DG Competition to sensitise them to the potential difficulties to be encountered by Irish businesses in the UK market arising from the Brexit referendum result. Furthermore, in November 2017, the then Tánaiste met with Commissioner Vestager. An outcome from this meeting was the establishment of a Working Group comprising representatives from DG Comp, the Department of Business, Enterprise & Innovation, Enterprise Ireland and Department of Agriculture. The objective of the Group is to scope and design schemes to support enterprise impacted by Brexit in line with current applicable State Aid rules. The work of this Group has already commenced and will continue into 2018. Should issues arise that require an approach that does not fit within the existing State Aid rules, this will be raised as part of the Working Group discussions.

A lot can be done within the existing EU State Aid Framework. In October 2017, the then Tánaiste announced a Brexit Loan Guarantee scheme for SMEs and in November 2017 the EU Commission approved a Rescue and Restructuring scheme for Ireland. Both these schemes will operate within existing State Aid rules.

Brexit Expenditure

14/12/2017WRR01600285. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of full-time and part-time staff hired since 1 January 2017 under the budget allocation (details supplied) to each State agency to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53668/17]

14/12/2017WRR01700Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): As part of Budget 2017, my Department secured an additional €3 million in respect of Pay to assist in responding to the challenges and opportunities associated with Brexit.

177 Questions - Written Answers The funding was allocated to the Department (€250,000) and the following State Agencies as follows:

- Enterprise Ireland (€1,700,000)

- IDA Ireland (€750,000)

- Science Foundation Ireland (€150,000)

- The Health and Safety Authority (€150,000)

Enterprise Ireland

Enterprise Ireland received sanction to recruit an additional 39 full-time Brexit specific posts to work alongside existing staff within the agency. Of the 39 Brexit-related posts, which includes providing assistance to the Local Enterprise Offices, 36 have been filled to-date and the agency is actively working to recruit the remaining three posts.

IDA Ireland

IDA Ireland identified an immediate requirement for an additional ten full-time client-facing posts to supplement existing staffing numbers, and to assist the Agency in responding to Brexit and to capitalize on opportunities that may arise. All 10 of the posts allocated to IDA have now been filled after IDA Ireland undertook a rigorous recruitment process across a wide variety of channels to ensure that the best candidates were identified for these roles.

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI)

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) identified three full-time posts. They have made one appointment, which commenced in November and will have an emphasis on Brexit related opportunities. A second appointment has been made with an anticipated start in January, with one further post anticipated to be filled shortly thereafter.

These additional appointments will supplement an existing six members of staff who hold specific Brexit responsibilities. These positions include high-level political and strategic engagement activity led by the SFI Director General and other members of the SFI Executive Committee (2 x Directors), 1 Public Affairs Senior Executive, level D (20%) and 1 Unit Head, level F (20%) plus 2 Level E Scientific Programme Managers. These staff members have been employed by Science Foundation Ireland since before January 2017.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA)

The Health and Safety Authority obtained sanction for the recruitment of two full-time staff, which include: a Socio-Economic Manager (AP level) to deal with the socioeconomic aspects of chemicals regulation in the lead-up to, and following, Brexit; and a Chemical Risk Manage- ment Advisor (GIII Inspector level) to deal with risk management of chemicals at the national and EU level also before and after Brexit. A recruitment campaign for these posts is currently underway with the aim of having both staff in place early in 2018.

Brexit Issues

14/12/2017WRR01800286. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Enterprise Ireland exporting client companies that have availed of Be Prepared grants to date, by county, in tabular form. [53669/17]

178 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRR01900Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Brexit presents the most significant economic challenge of the past 50 years and long-term, structural and disruptive change will emerge. Following the UK’s vote to leave the EU, the need to accelerate and implement competitiveness, innovation and market diversification strategies at a national and company level cannot be underestimated. This is at the crux of Enterprise Ireland’s 2017-2020 Build Scale and Expand Reach strategy and its new Eurozone Strategy to assist Irish exporters increase exports in Eurozone countries by 50% by 2020.

The devaluation and volatility of sterling, and the uncertainty that has unfolded in the business environment since the UK vote to leave the EU cannot be underestimated. Enterprise Ireland’s clients are actively utilising the agency’s financial and non-financial supports to meet the innovation, competitiveness and market diversification challenges of Brexit as part of their strategic growth plans.

In March 2017, Enterprise Ireland launched a ‘Brexit SME Scorecard’, a new interactive online platform which can be used by all Irish companies to self-assess their exposure to Brexit under six business pillars. Based on answers supplied by the user, the Scorecard generates an immediate report which contains suggested actions and resources, and information on events for companies to attend, to prepare for Brexit. To date approximately 1,500 companies have utilised the Brexit SME Scorecard.

Enterprise Ireland’s Be Prepared Grant provides client companies with the cost of preparing a plan to mitigate risks and optimise opportunities arising from Brexit. This grant support, of up to €5,000, can be used to help cover consultancy, travel and out of pocket expenses associated with researching the direction of their Brexit action plan.

To date 70 companies have received approval for support under this initiative, and a strong pipeline of companies have applications undergoing review for approval. The number of applications at this stage means that a county by county analysis is not particularly meaningful. Approximately 49% of applications are from the Dublin region and the rest from the other regions. Enterprise Ireland will continue to promote the Scorecard and the Be Prepared Grant to all counties and regions to ensure that the maximum number of clients are engaged in preparing for the impact of Brexit.

Brexit Issues

14/12/2017WRR02000287. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Brexit readiness vouchers from InterTradeIreland that have been availed of since being established, by county; and the value of such vouchers, in tabular form. [53670/17]

14/12/2017WRR02100Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Since the establishment of its Brexit Advisory Service, InterTrade Ireland has approved 24 vouchers for companies in Ireland. In addition, there are 17 voucher applications currently pending. The value of each voucher is €2,000 and details by County are set out in the table below.

County Approved Pending

Cavan 2 2 Clare 1 2 Donegal 2 Dublin 6 5

179 Questions - Written Answers County Approved Pending Galway 2 Kildare 1 Kilkenny 1 1 Louth 2 2 Mayo 1 Meath 1 3 Monaghan 2 1 Sligo 1 Tipperary 2 Wicklow 1 Totals 24 17

Brexit Issues

14/12/2017WRR02200288. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of companies that have sought help via the Brexit advisory service of InterTradeIreland since the UK referendum to leave the EU in June 2016. [53671/17]

14/12/2017WRR02300Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): To date, InterTrade Ireland has engaged directly with over 1,000 SMEs through the various elements of its Brexit support service.

The Body has also organised a total of 60 engagements to raise awareness of Brexit-related commercial issues. More such events will be held throughout 2018. In addition, since last May, nearly 37,000 visitors have consulted the Brexit section of the InterTrade Ireland website.

Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRR02400289. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the amount of annual budget expended on staff salaries and remuneration since the CCPC was established in euro and in percentage terms; and the amount of annual budget not expended on staff salaries and remuneration in euro and in percentage terms. [53672/17]

14/12/2017WRR02500Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Year CCPC Pay CCPC Pay % Pay Allo- Pay Not % of Pay Al- Allocation Allocation cation Spent Spent location Not Spent Spent 2015 €7.556m €5.691m 75.32% €1.865m 24.68% 2016 €7.467m €5.673m 75.97% €1.794m 24.03% 2017 €7.694m The above table captures the relevant figures for the CCPC annual budgets in the full years since the CCPC was established on 31st October 2014. The outturn figures for 2017 are not yet available.

Competition and Consumer Protection Commission 180 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRR02600290. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of staff since the CCPC was established working on competition enforcement in absolute terms and as a percentage of total staff. [53673/17]

14/12/2017WRR02700Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Year No. of Staff Full Time Part Time No. of staff Percentage of working on total staff competition enforcement in absolute terms 2017 90 90 0 27 30.00% 2016 89 89 0 23 25.84% 2015 89 89 0 17 19.01% 2014 86 86 0 21 24.42% *Please note that a number of these people also work on car crime and pyramid selling.

14/12/2017WRS00200Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRS00300291. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the figures for categories (details supplied) since the Competition and Consumer Protection Com- mission was established. [53674/17]

14/12/2017WRS00400Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): From 31 October 2014 to 12 December 2017, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) took the following actions in relation to suspected anti-competitive conduct that does not fall within the definition of a cartel:

Fines Total Investigations commenced 9 Inspections carried out 5 Prosecutions The CCPC investigates non-cartel offences as civil offences. In some cases the CCPC may take civil action against the parties in courts. In the majority of cases the CCPC has reached settlements with the parties concerned without resorting to court actions Cases concluded with fines 0 Total amount of collected and uncollected N/A fines Average fine per case N/A Average length of anti-competitive investi- 19 months gations to date

14/12/2017WRS00500Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRS00600292. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the

181 Questions - Written Answers annual figures for categories (details supplied) since the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission was established. [53675/17]

14/12/2017WRS00700Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): From 31 October 2014 to 12 December 2017 the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) took the following actions in relation to suspected anti-competitive conduct that falls within the definition of a cartel:

Fines Totals Investigations commenced 3 Inspections carried out 23 Prosecutions by Director of Public Prosecu- 1 tions Cases concluded with fines 1 Total amount of fines €17,500 Average fine per cartel €17,500 Total number of collected and uncollected Sentencing including fines in relation to fines cartel conviction currently under appeal by the DPP as being “unduly lenient”. Average length of cartel investigations 18 to 24 months

14/12/2017WRS00800Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRS00900293. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the status of progress to date by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission regarding concert ticketing and motor insurance inquiries, such as price signalling concerns and personal contract plans used to finance motor purchases. [53676/17]

14/12/2017WRS01000Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): On the issue of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) investigations into concert ticketing and motor insurance, the CCPC is the statutory independent body responsible for the enforcement of domestic and EU competition law in the State. Section 9 (5) of the Com- petition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 provides that the CCPC is independent in the performance of its functions. I, as Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, have no direct function in such matters and thus it would be inappropriate for me to comment on these issues.

On the issue of personal contract plans used to finance motor purchases, I understand that the CCPC study into this issue is ongoing and it is hoped to finalise it soon.

14/12/2017WRS01100Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRS01200294. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the status of progress to date by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission regarding a screening programme for procurement processes which systematically searches for indications that bid rigging may have occurred. [53677/17]

14/12/2017WRS01300Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory independent body responsible for the enforcement of domestic and EU competition law in the State. Section 9 (5) of the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 provides that the CCPC is independent

182 14 December 2017 in the performance of its functions. I, as Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, have no direct function in such matters.

I am informed that the CCPC met with my colleagues Minister Donohoe and the then Min- ister of State Murphy in late 2016 and has had follow-up meetings with officials from the Office of Government Procurement to discuss bid-rigging and the development of a screening tool. Since then, the CCPC has continued to research screening initiatives elsewhere including an initiative launched by the Competition and Markets Authority in the UK which has the potential of being rolled out in the short term. The CCPC is planning an initiative during 2018 to give a platform to agencies from other countries to share their experiences in detecting bid rigging patterns.

14/12/2017WRS01400EU Directives

14/12/2017WRS01500295. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the estimated timetable for the Irish national transposition of the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council, COM(2017)142 final 2017/0063 (COD), to empower the competition authorities of the member states to be more effective enforcers; and if officials in her Department have reviewed if implementation of this directive will empower the CCPC to issue civil financial sanctions. [53678/17]

14/12/2017WRS01600Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The proposal referred to by the Deputy is currently being discussed at EU Council Working Group level in Brussels. Agreement on the proposal is unlikely to be achieved until mid-2018 at the earliest. When agreed, the final text will specify a deadline by which Member States must transpose the Directive. The original proposal, as presented by the EU Commission, proposed a two-year period for transposition.

On the issue of national administrative competition authorities (such as the CCPC) being granted the power to impose fines, if this power is part of the final agreed text, this will apply to the CCPC.

14/12/2017WRS01700Competition and Consumer Protection Commission

14/12/2017WRS01800296. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if it is possible to adapt the current regulatory regime and empower the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to issue civil financial sanctions in similar fashion to as provided by a court of competent jurisdiction when the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ire- land Act 2004 inserted the power to impose civil financial sanctions into Part IIIC of the Central Bank Act 1942. [53679/17]

14/12/2017WRS01900Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Central Bank has a statutory function to regulate financial service providers in Ireland. Arising from this statutory function, the Central Bank can impose civil financial sanctions for non-compliance with regulatory requirements. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) does not have an equivalent regulatory function and accordingly does not have the statutory power to impose civil financial sanctions.

I am aware that the Law Reform Commission published an Issues Paper entitled “Regula- tory Enforcement and Corporate Offences” on 27 January 2016. The Issues Paper invited views on the supervisory and enforcement powers of the State’s main financial and economic regula- 183 Questions - Written Answers tors (including the CCPC) and the issue of civil financial sanctions was raised. I understand the CCPC made a submission to the Law Reform Commission on 19 September 2017 in response to the Issues Paper requesting the power to levy such sanctions. Any recommendations or proposals that may emanate from this exercise will be carefully considered by my Department.

My Department has obtained advice on the issue of civil fines from the Office of the -At torney General to the effect that civil fines are not provided for in Irish law for anti-competitive practices. This advice is based on Article 38.1 of the Constitution which provides that no person shall be tried on any criminal charge save in due course of law. Therefore, any national legislation to introduce civil fines that would lower the burden of proof from beyond reasonable doubt to the balance of probability would pose constitutional difficulties due to the protection afforded in Article 38.1 of the Constitution.

On 22 March 2017, the EU Commission published a proposal for a Directive of the Eu- ropean Parliament and of the Council to empower the competition authorities of the Member States to be more effective enforcers and to ensure the proper functioning of the internal market. One of the Directive’s aims is to ensure that all National Competition Authorities are given the power to impose effective deterrent fines. The proposal is currently being debated at the Coun- cil Working Group on Competition and is also being considered by the European Parliament.

14/12/2017WRS02000IDA Ireland Data

14/12/2017WRS02100297. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of vacant IDA Ireland properties in each county from the latest data available; the name and location of each such vacant property on a town and county level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53680/17]

14/12/2017WRS02200Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I am informed that there are 16 IDA-owned buildings currently available for marketing. In addition, the Agency leases units from private investors, of which 21 are currently available.

The availability of an adequate supply of marketable serviced land, together with office, industrial and technology buildings, in advance of demand is a key element in the IDA’s ability to compete for mobile foreign direct investment. That is because the availability of property solutions eliminates the lead times normally associated with acquiring property, enables clients to plan their property needs with a greater degree of certainty and allows for the commencement of projects at an earlier date by diminishing much of the difficulties associated with land acquisition, planning and construction. It is, therefore, an important means by which the IDA can encourage and attract new investors to the country, especially to regional Ireland.

The table gives a breakdown of available IDA owned and Private Finance Buildings by County:

Private IDA Finance Owned County Town Occupied Market- Total Occu- Market- Total able pied able Cork Ballygallan 0 0 0 0 3 3 Cork Kilbarry 0 6 6 0 0 0 Cork Wilton 1 0 1 0 0 0 Cork Skibbereen 1 2 3 0 0 0

184 14 December 2017 Private IDA Finance Owned County Town Occupied Market- Total Occu- Market- Total able pied able Dublin Clonshaugh 0 0 0 2 0 2 Dublin Tallaght 0 0 0 1 0 1 Dublin Poppintree 1 0 1 0 0 0 Galway Loughrea 0 0 0 1 0 1 Galway Mervue 0 0 0 1 0 1 Galway Roundstone 0 0 0 1 2 3 Galway Parkmore 1 0 1 0 0 0 Galway Tuam 5 0 5 0 0 0 Kerry Killarney 0 0 0 3 2 5 Kerry Tralee 0 0 0 0 1 1 Kildare Newbridge 5 1 6 0 0 0 Mayo Ballina 1 0 1 0 1 1 Mayo Castlebar 0 0 0 1 0 1 Offaly Tullamore 0 0 0 1 0 1 Sligo Finisklin 0 0 0 1 1 2 Tipperary Nenagh 0 0 0 0 1 1 Waterford Johnstown 4 3 7 0 0 0 Waterford Waterford 0 0 0 0 3 3 West- Athlone 0 2 2 1 1 2 meath West- Mullingar 0 1 1 0 0 0 meath Wexford Enniscorthy 1 1 2 0 0 0 Wexford Whitemills 0 0 0 0 0 0 Wicklow Arklow 1 5 6 0 1 1 Summary 21 21 42 13 16 29

14/12/2017WRS02300Personal Injury Claims

14/12/2017WRS02400298. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the recommendation of the first report of the personal injuries commission that the Quebec task force whiplash associated disorder grading scale which can be used in an Irish context; and the main features of this system. [53681/17]

14/12/2017WRS02500Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The First Report of the Personal Injuries Commission was approved by Government on 5 Decem- ber 2017. The establishment of the Personal Injuries Commission (PIC), chaired by Justice Nicholas Kearns, was one of the key recommendations in the Cost of Insurance Working Group Report on the Cost of Motor Insurance published in January 2017.

Since its establishment in January 2017, the Personal Injuries Commission has been actively engaged in delivering in accordance with the terms of reference of its work. A considerable amount of research into approaches in other jurisdictions has been carried out along with a consultation exercise with the medical community and key stakeholder groups.

185 Questions - Written Answers This research and consultation has informed the key findings of the Commission’s First Report. The Commission suggest that adopting a standardised and internationally recognised approach to the diagnosis, treatment and report of soft tissue injuries, by medical practitioners who are appropriately competent and trained in the completion of personal injury medical reports, will improve the personal injuries environment in Ireland. This standardised approach should be along the lines of South Australia Clinical guidelines for best practice management of acute and chronic Whiplash Associated Disorder.

The Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) scale as developed by the Quebec Task Force (QTF) is an internationally recognised objective classification scale based on severity of symp- toms and associated physical signs indicative of the seriousness of the injury sustained. It comprises of five grades:

- Grade 0 (WAD 0) - no neck pain, stiffness, or any physical signs are noticed

- Grade 1 (WAD I) - neck complaints of pain, stiffness/tenderness but no physical signs

- Grade 2 (WAD II) - neck complaints and decreased range of motion and local tenderness in the neck

- Grade 3 (WAD III) - neck complaints plus neurological signs

- Grade 4 (WAD IV) - neck complaints and fracture, dislocation, or injury to the spinal cord.

The scale seeks to provide an objective basis for diagnosing whiplash. It allows medical practitioners to classify patients’ injuries according to their level of severity. This classification helps determine the type and extent of medical care patients will likely need to effectively treat the injuries and accompanying pain and discomfort.

The Personal Injuries Commission has included a medical reporting template in the Report to be used by all examining medical professionals in all relevant cases.

The Personal Injuries Commission has recognised that there are significant advantages in adopting the WAD scale in Ireland as it has been validated by research and is internationally used and recognised.

14/12/2017WRS02525Job Initiatives

14/12/2017WRS02550299. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the timetable for the independent review of the Succeed-in-Ireland programme which her department has commissioned; if her department has assessed the projected costs of the programme to date; if not, the reason for the delay; if submissions to the public consultation will be published; and her plans to meet representatives directly from the IDA and Connect Ireland directly. [53682/17]

14/12/2017WRS02575Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): As has been announced previously, it is intended to commission an independent review of the Succeed-in-Ireland programme. That review, once completed, will equip us with a thorough understanding of the programme’s results and its contribution to employment generation in the State.

The difficulty remains, as has been made clear previously, that the review cannot proceed until it is possible to assess the projected costs of the programme. However, an accurate assessment of the projected costs - which is indispensable if the review is to determine whether the 186 14 December 2017 programme provided value for money for the taxpayer - cannot be made until ConnectIreland resolves or otherwise concludes its dispute with IDA Ireland about the operation of the initiative and the number of jobs it has created.

It is therefore essential that the dispute be resolved or concluded so that the review can proceed. Regarding the submissions to the public consultation, these will be published once we are able to progress the review.

14/12/2017WRS02700Departmental Reviews

14/12/2017WRS02800300. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the status of the review of Enterprise 2025 in view of Brexit and potential policy changes under the new US Administration; and when the review will be completed and published. [53683/17]

14/12/2017WRS02900Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): En- terprise 2025 sets a roadmap for long-term enterprise development. It is an ambitious strategy that aims to deliver jobs that are sustainable over the longer period and to achieve a top 3 competitiveness ranking. Through our policy actions and company supports we aim to achieve a step-change in the performance of our enterprises, to ensure that our business environment remains conducive to enterprise investment and growth and to differentiate Ireland’s offering on the global stage. We aim to have 2.180 million in employment by 2020, and to ensure that all regions of Ireland benefit from economic growth.

Earlier this year, a Review of Enterprise 2025 was initiated to ensure that our policy framework and priorities are robust in the uncertain environment. This review is undertaken in the context of global changes that are likely to have an impact on Ireland’s enterprise development, and specifically Brexit and potential policy changes under the new US administration. In addition, the advances in digital technologies continue apace, opening up new market opportunities, spawning new global business models and impacting on every sector of the economy.

A senior-level Principal Officer forum was set up that includes representatives from a number of key economic government departments and the development agencies. Analysis of performance to date shows good performance against the 30 metrics set out in Enterprise 2025 and solid progress on implementation of 56 strategic actions. A more comprehensive review of enterprise performance over the past decade was also completed. Informed by this evidence base, my officials engaged with industry and other stakeholders to debate the extent to which our priorities remain robust or need a greater emphasis in today’s environment.

It is important to highlight that action is already being taken by Government, my Depart- ment and its agencies to respond to the challenges arising from Brexit in particular.

I and my agencies remain focused very clearly on the stretch targets set out in Enterprise 2025, which include reducing unemployment in each region to within one percent of the State average by 2020; achieving export growth in Irish-owned enterprises of 6-8 percent per annum; an increase in the number of startups by 25 percent per annum – startups with better sur- vival rates – this would see us with 15,700 enterprise births a year; a 30 percent increase in the numbers of exporters of scale; an additional 1,080 inward investment projects; a 60 percent increase in EI enterprises spending more than €1m on R&D and winning €3.6bn in R&D related FDI; and, a 25 percent uplift in direct economic expenditures by agency supported companies.

The Review is at final draft stages and the aim is to publish the report in early 2018. This review will be complemented by the Action Plan for Jobs 2018.

187 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRS03000Small and Medium Enterprises Supports

14/12/2017WRS03100301. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when the rescue and restructuring scheme will be operationalised and ready to be availed of by SMEs; if a supplementary Estimate will be required to finance this scheme in 2018; and the estimated exchequer funding needed to operationalise this scheme. [53684/17]

14/12/2017WRS03200Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): A Rescue and Restructuring (R&R) Scheme for Ireland was approved by the EU Commission on 30th November 2017 and is now available to SMEs in difficulty. Under the scheme an undertaking is considered to be in difficulty when, without intervention by the State, it will almost certainly be condemned to going out of business in the short or medium term.

This scheme has been put in place as it was considered prudent to have contingency measures in place so that we can respond swiftly to changing circumstances as necessary. How- ever, I do not expect that there will be a need for the State to provide rescue/restructuring aid to companies.

The overall budget for the scheme is €10 million. Any issues with regard to funding for the scheme will be addressed in consultation with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

14/12/2017WRS03300Third Level Funding

14/12/2017WRS03400302. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the amount allocated to the programme for research in third level institutions in 2018. [53685/17]

14/12/2017WRS03500Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The 2018 allocation to the Programme for Research in Third Level Institutions (PRTLI) is €14.3m. A portion of the 2018 PRTLI allocation for 2018 will be used to part pay outstanding bills for PRTLI Cycle 5 projects. There were 33 projects funded in Cycle 5, with the final two completed in mid-2017.

The PRTLI funding allocation also funds vital shared infrastructure, essential to the third level research sector. This includes part payment of an annual subscription to e-Journals. E- Journals funding provides Irish based scientists online access to a wide range of leading international scientific journals and is a necessary tool to enable them to conduct their own research. E-Journals in the STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology and Maths) area formed part of the transfer of functions between this Department and the Department of Education & Skills (DES), as decided by Government order in May 2010.

In addition, a portion of the 2018 PRTLI allocation will be used to commence a postgraduate programme funding both PhDs and Research Masters, as per the action in Innovation 2020 to increase postgraduate researcher enrolments, in disciplines aligned to enterprise and national needs.

This new postgraduate programme will be administered by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and will fund postgraduate researcher enrolments in disciplines under their remit. Further details will be provided by SFI over the coming months.

14/12/2017WRS03600Science Foundation Ireland Data

188 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRS03700303. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the Exchequer funding allocated to Science Foundation Ireland on an annual basis since it was established up to 2017; and the 2018 allocation. [53686/17]

14/12/2017WRS03800Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): SFI was established in July 2003 under the provisions of the Industrial Development (Science Foun- dation Ireland) Act, 2003. The financial information set out in the table below shows the annual exchequer funding allocated to Science Foundation Ireland on an annual basis from 2003 to 2017, together with the 2018 allocation.

Year Total annual allocation in €000 2003 69,400 2004 113,700 2005 129,500 2006 147,500 2007 165,772 2008 185,869 2009 176,024 2010 159,833 2011 175,142 2012 169,669 2013 162,300 2014 162,840 2015 168,230 2016 193,662 2017 172,631 2018 177,565 For the information of the Deputy, I would like to note that the above budget allocation figures include all sanctioned Deferred Surrender (Capital Carryover) monies, together with any Supplementary Estimate monies as approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas that were provided to SFI for the years in question.

In addition to its 2018 allocation, SFI will be asked to administer a new postgraduate programme for Research Masters and PhDs. The funding to commence this new programme in 2018 will be found within the allocation for the Programme for Research in Third Level Institu- tions which is a separate budget line of my Department. The total allocation to PRTLI in 2018 is €14.3m.

14/12/2017WRS03900Health and Safety Authority Data

14/12/2017WRS04000304. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of full-time and part-time staff employed in the Health and Safety Authority in each of the years from 2010 to 2017 by Civil Service grade and other staff; the breakdown in funding of Exchequer funding allocated to the HSA in each of the years from 2010 to 2017; and the budget allocation in 2018. [53688/17]

14/12/2017WRS04100Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Due to the time it will take to compile the information requested, I am not in a position to provide all of the information to the Deputy within the current timeframe. However, I undertake to supply 189 Questions - Written Answers the information requested directly to the Deputy by next Wednesday, 20 December.

14/12/2017WRS04200Trade Agreements

14/12/2017WRS04300305. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the status of the process for ratifying CETA; and when the CETA trade agreement will be voted on by Dáil Éireann in 2018. [53690/17]

14/12/2017WRS04400Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The EU – Canada Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) entered into force provi- sionally from the 21st September 2017. This means that Irish companies may now take advantage of important provisions in the Agreement including the immediate elimination of 98% of tariffs on almost all key exports, access to the Canadian procurement market, the easing of regulatory barriers and more transparent rules for market access.

It is important to note that the provisions relating to investment protection and the Invest- ment Court System are excluded from provisional application. This means Ireland or other Member States will not be bound by these provisions until they are ratified by all Member States in accordance with their national law.

In this regard, given the recent request by Belgium for an Opinion (1/17) from the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) on the compatibility of the Investment Court System in CETA with the European Treaties, I have no immediate plans to seek the ratification of the Agreement. It would only be appropriate to do so after we have considered the Opinion of the CJEU.

Ireland already has a strong trading relationship with Canada which is reflected in the €3.2 billion worth of annual trade between both countries. The value of Irish exports to Canada is worth €2.4 billion whilst the value of Irish imports from Canada is worth €780 million. I welcome the provisional application of CETA which will provide increased opportunities for new and existing Irish companies trading with Canada to build and develop further these relationships, providing increased growth and jobs.

14/12/2017WRT00200Trade Agreements

14/12/2017WRT00300306. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation her views on the May 2017 ECJ decision regarding the EU-Singapore trade agreement and potential impact on existing EU trade agreements and future ones; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53691/17]

14/12/2017WRT00400Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The opinion of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) was sought by the European Commission in relation to the competence of the European Union to sign and conclude alone, the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA). The CJEU’s Opinion which issued on the 16th of May 2017, found that the EUSFTA could not be signed and concluded by the EU alone, as it contained areas of EU and Member State shared competence, i.e. that it was a ‘Mixed Agreement’.

The Opinion means that those aspects of a trade agreement in respect of which the EU does not have exclusive competence, cannot be applied until ratified by Member States according to the requirements of their national law. This means that as presently concluded the EUSFTA

190 14 December 2017 will require ratification by each individual Member State in accordance with their legislative requirements.

The European Commission is engaging in discussions with Member States in relation to how it proposes to progress the EUSFTA and its future approach to EU trade agreements. This engagement includes whether existing agreements which have yet to be ratified, or current agreements, which are under negotiation, should be concluded as ‘Mixed’ or ‘EU-only’ agreements. My Department is actively engaged in these discussions through the Trade Policy Com- mittee in Brussels.

14/12/2017WRT00500Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement Legal Cases

14/12/2017WRT00600307. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when she plans to publish an account of the investigative failures identified by a person (details supplied); and the steps that are being taken to address them emanating from the trial of a person (details supplied). [53693/17]

14/12/2017WRT00700Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I intend to publish an account of the investigative failures identified by Judge Aylmer and the steps that are being taken to address them as soon as possible.

It is important to understand what factors led to such mistakes being made and to take appropriate steps to address these shortcomings and ensure that they are never repeated.

These steps include ongoing reform within the ODCE and the establishment, as announced by Government in November, of the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement as a new independent company law enforcement agency, to provide greater autonomy to the agency and ensure it is better equipped to investigate increasingly complex breaches of company law.

Work on the drafting of the necessary General Scheme of a Bill to give effect to this decision has commenced. It is expected that the General Scheme of a Bill to give effect to this decision will be published by Q2 2018, with final publication of the Bill by Q4 2018.

14/12/2017WRT00800Ministerial Briefing

14/12/2017WRT00900308. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if her ministerial briefing has been published and is downloadable on her Department’s website. [54130/17]

14/12/2017WRT01000Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The brief that I received upon appointment as Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation is currently being reviewed for publication and will be available on my Department’s website in the coming days.

14/12/2017WRT01100Unified Patent Court

14/12/2017WRT01200309. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the timeframe for holding a referendum on the implementation of the Unified Patent Court; the impact Brexit will have on its implementation; if the agreement will require renegotiation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54143/17]

191 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRT01300Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Gov- ernment has deferred a decision on the timing of a referendum on Ireland’s participation in the Unified Patent Court. The Agreement on a Unified Patent Court is an international agreement between 25 contracting EU member states and the Court, when operational, will not be an EU institution. The impact of Brexit is not clear and any suggestion of a re-negotiation of the Agreement, which would be a matter for the contracting parties rather than the EU, is premature.

14/12/2017WRT01400Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRT01500310. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the photography costs for her Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54221/17]

14/12/2017WRT01600Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): De- tails of the photography costs incurred by my Department and its Offices since March, 2011 are available at the website below.

No expenditure for photography was incurred from Ministerial allowances.

My Department uses external service providers having regard to its business needs for such services. In engaging such providers, the Department is mindful of the need to secure value for money and, accordingly, strives to keep costs to the minimum.

[List of Tables].

14/12/2017WRT01700Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRT01800311. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the use of external public relations firms employed by her Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54237/17]

14/12/2017WRT01900Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): My Department uses external public relations providers having regard to its business needs for specialist communications advice, training and technical materials assistance. In engaging such providers, the Department is mindful of the need to secure value for money and, accordingly, strives to keep costs to the minimum.

The providers of public relations services used by my Department and the Offices of my De- partment, the details of the services supplied by each and the expenditure on each since March, 2011 to date are set out in the table.

192 14 December 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Services Sup- Cost of PR Services Pro- plied vider 2011 Barberry Limited To provide NERA with €18,770 trading as Keating Communications Ser- and Associates vices (including PR; Me- dia Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports & brochures and assisting with website content). 2012 Barberry Limited To provide NERA with €5,268 trading as Keating Communications Servic- and Associates es (including PR; Media Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports and brochures and assisting with website content). 2013 Barberry Limited To provide NERA with €3,183 trading as Keating Communications Servic- and Associates es (including PR; Media Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports and brochures and assisting with website content). 2013 MRPA Kinman To provide the Depart- €76,480 Communications ment with Press and trading as MKC Media Relations Services Communications for the Irish Presidency Limited of the EU.(This was a once off exercise/expenditure due to Presidency events.) 2014 Barberry Ltd T/A To provide NERA with €3,136 Keating and Associ- Communications Servic- ates es (including PR; Media Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports & brochures). 2015 Barberry Ltd To provide NERA with €3,505 Communications Servic- es (including PR; Media Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports & brochures).

193 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Services Sup- Cost of PR Services Pro- plied vider 2015 Atomic Advertising To provide brand de- €1,537 Ltd velopment work for the launch of the Low Pay Commission 2015 Jays Printing To provide roll-up ban- €379 ners for the launch of the Low Pay Commission 2015 Atomic Advertising To provide the Depart- €157,228 Ltd ment with a one year advertising campaign, radio and digital, to raise awareness of a range of Government provided enterprise supports 2016 Barberry Ltd To provide the Workplace €4,981 Relations Commis- sion with Communica- tion Services (including PR; Media Monitoring advising on the design, content and production of reports and brochures. 2016 Fuzion Communica- Provision of Communi- €686 tions cations services to the Workplace Relations Commission 2016 Atomic Advertising To provide the Depart- €20,568 Ltd ment with a one year advertising campaign, radio and digital, to raise awareness of a range of Government provided enterprise supports(This amount relates to work carried out in 2015) 2016 Strategem b.t.l. Ltd. To provide the Depart- €36,232 ment with a six month public campaign to raise awareness of the Prompt Payment Code 2016 Public Relations Attendance of two staff €3,780 Institute of Ireland members at four day training course ‘Cer- tificate for Civil Service Press Officers’

194 14 December 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Services Sup- Cost of PR Services Pro- plied vider 2016 BMF Business Ser- Attendance of 4 staff €1,080 vices members at Social Media Conference 2016 Law Society Social media eSeminars €195 for one staff member 2017 Strategem b.t.l. Ltd. To provide the Depart- €25,155 ment with a six month public campaign to raise awareness of the Prompt Payment Code(This amount relates to work carried out in 2016) 2017 Drury Porter Novelli PR and event support for €15,238 information campaigns; encouraging and informing companies on how to prepare their business for Brexit 2017 Fuzion Communica- Provision of a range of €6,753 tions Communications Ser- vices to the Workplace Relations Commission 2017 Fuzion Communica- Development of Commu- €4,404 tions nications Strategy for the Workplace Relations Commission to enhance activity impact and its roll out in 2017 2017 Fuzion Communica- Advertising in relation €3,198 tions to the opening of the Workplace Relations Commission Office in Sligo

14/12/2017WRT02000Departmental Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRT02100312. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the external consultant reports commissioned by her Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54253/17]

14/12/2017WRT02200Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The names of external reports commissioned by my Department and Offices of my Department, the costs, the date or expected date of publication and the name of the external consultants are available at the link below for the years 2011-2017. In some cases, the costs of the reports were

195 Questions - Written Answers shared with other bodies and these are noted in the table.

The data in respect of 2014 includes research and analysis which was commissioned by Forfás prior to the date of its integration into my Department in August 2014, and for which my Department held the 2014 budget. This research and analysis has subsequently been carried out in the Strategic Policy Division in my Department.

[312].

14/12/2017WRT02300Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRT02400313. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the level of expenditure by her Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54269/17]

14/12/2017WRT02500Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): De- tails of expenditure incurred to date in 2017 by my Department and its Offices on advertising of government information campaigns as requested by the Deputy are set out in the table below.

Expenditure incurred by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices to date in 2017 on advertising of Government Information Campaigns

Advertisement Type Company Purpose Cost Newspapers and accoun- Mediavest Limited Mandatory electronic €97,951.93 tancy publications filing now required for companies filing their annual returns Radio advertisements Mediavest Limited Mandatory electronic €49,993.45 filing now required for companies filing their annual returns Website editions of Mediavest Limited Mandatory electronic €6,158.59 newspapers filing now required for companies filing their annual returns Newspapers Mediavest Limited Change of Companies €7,145.11 Registration Office (CRO) Public Office address

14/12/2017WRT02600Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRT02700314. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54285/17]

14/12/2017WRT02800Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The 196 14 December 2017 providers of the services procured by my Department and its Offices over the period 1 Janu- ary to date in 2017 as requested by the Deputy are set out in the table. My Department uses external service providers having regard to its business needs for such services. In engaging such providers, the Department is mindful of the need to secure value for money and, accordingly, strives to keep costs to the minimum. The hiring of external service providers by the agencies under the aegis of my Department is a day-to-day operational matter for the agencies concerned. I have, however, asked the agencies to provide details of any such services procured by them and I will forward these to the Deputy once received.

Photography Costs incurred by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innova- tion and its Offices from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017

Occasion for which Photographer booked Name of Photographer Cost € Photographic services - launch of Action Plan Fennell Photography 549 for Jobs (APJ) 2017 Photographic services - launch of Prompt Pay- Fennell Photography 291 ments Code/Portal Stock shots Minister Breen Fennell Photography 46 Photographic services - WRC Annual Report Fennell Photography 275 Launch Photographic services - EAT 50th Anniversary Fennell Photography 275 Brexit SME Scorecard Fennell Photography 321 Photography services Future of Work Confer- Maxwell Photography 396 ence Dublin Castle Photographic Services Launch of Irelands Sec- Fennell Photography 398 ond Plan on Corporate Social Responsibility Photographic Services at the switching on of Fennell Photography 514 ILOFAR telescope, Birr Photographic Services for Launch of Taking Fennell Photography 275 Care of Business Official opening of WRC Sligo Office Charlie Brady Photography 136 Taking Care of Business Event Fennell Photography 275 Building Stronger Business (Brexit Report) Fennell Photography 275 Corporate Social Responsibility for SMEs Eamon Ward Photography 307 (Doolin, Co, Clare)

Communications Advice, Public Relations and Media Interview Preparation Costs In- curred by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017

Name of PR Company Service Provided Cost € Strategem b.t.l. Ltd. To provide the Department with 25,155 a six month public campaign to raise awareness of the Prompt Payment Code(This amount relates to work carried out in 2016) Drury Porter Novelli PR and event support for infor- 15,238 mation campaigns; encouraging and informing companies on how to prepare their business for Brexit

197 Questions - Written Answers Name of PR Company Service Provided Cost € Fuzion Communications Provision of Communications 6,753 Services to the Workplace Rela- tions Commission Fuzion Communications Development of Communica- 4,404 tions Strategy to enhance Activity Impact and its 2017 roll out Advertising Costs Incurred by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017

Advertisement Type Company/Organisation Engaged Total Paid to Company/ Organi- to Provide Advertising Service sation € Various newspaper advertise- Mediavest Limited 19,192 ments relating to Department’s business Various Official Notices in Gov- Iris Oifigiúil 5,108 ernment Publication, Iris Oifigiúil Advertising in daily newspapers Mediavest Limited 13,656 in relation to Joint Labour Com- mittees Official Notices in Iris Oifigiúil Iris Oifigiúil 31 in relation to Joint Labour Com- mittees Advertisements - Accountancy Mediavest Limited 6,144 Ireland Advertisements - Accountancy Mediavest Limited 4,059 Ireland Advertisements placed by Mediavest Limited 97,952 Companies Registration Office in newspapers and accountancy publications regarding mandatory electronic filing now required for companies filing their annual returns Radio advertisements by Compa- Mediavest Limited 49,993 nies Registration Office regarding mandatory electronic filing now required for companies filing their annual returns Advertisements placed by Com- Mediavest Limited 6,158 panies Registration Office in website editions of newspapers regarding mandatory electronic filing now required for companies filing their annual returns Advertisements placed by Com- Mediavest Limited 7,145 panies Registration Office in newspapers regarding change of Public Office address Advertisement The Phoenix 2,768 Advertising in relation to the Fuzion Communications 3,198 opening of the WRC Sligo Office Website Development Costs incurred by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017

198 14 December 2017 Name and Address of Ser- Details of Service Supplied Cost vice Provider € Parallel Internet (T/S P Point of Single Contact 6,586.65 Tools Software (POSC) website redesign Inventise Solutions Ltd CRO website support 2,029.50

14/12/2017WRT02900Nursing Homes Support Scheme Applications

14/12/2017WRT03000315. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health the status of an application under the nursing home support scheme by a person (details supplied). [53534/17]

14/12/2017WRT03100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRT03200Hospitals Funding

14/12/2017WRT03300316. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Health if the funding proposal for a long awaited new endoscopy unit at Naas General Hospital has been considered under the national capital plan due shortly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53916/17]

14/12/2017WRT03400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Health capital funding was outlined in the recently published Public Service Estimates for 2018 and the HSE is currently developing its Capital Plan for 2018 - 2021.

The Government is also preparing a new 10 year National Investment Plan for the period 2018-2027, which will be published alongside and in support of the forthcoming new National Planning Framework, to sustain national economic and social progress over the long term.

My Department has asked the HSE to reply directly to you in respect of a proposed new endoscopy unit at Naas General Hospital.

14/12/2017WRU00150Home Help Service Provision

14/12/2017WRU00200317. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health if additional funding will be provided in 2018 home help, home support and home care packages; if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties caused to persons and families when delays occur in providing such support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53946/17]

14/12/2017WRU00300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The demand for the home help service, and for additional supports through the Home Care Package Scheme, continues to grow in parallel with the increasing numbers of older people. Many more of our older people with complex care needs are now being maintained at home, leading to increased demand for additional levels of service, and for services outside of core hours of Monday to Friday.

In Budget 2018 a further €41 million has been made available for older people services, comprising €9m once-off funding in 2017 and €32 million next year, to further strengthen supports for older people, particularly to facilitate speedier discharge from acute hospitals over the winter period. A significant proportion of this additional funding will go towards home care

199 Questions - Written Answers services.

Home care is monitored on an on-going basis, to ensure that activity is maximised relative to individual clients’ assessed care needs and within the overall available resources for home care and having regard to demand throughout the year.

The resources available for home care services while significant, are finite. Accordingly the services, and allocation of resources to individual clients, require prudent management on an on-going basis as demands for services increase. In this context, those clients who are assessed and approved for home care and who are not being provided immediately with a service are risk assessed and placed on a waiting list for a resource as it becomes available.

14/12/2017WRU00350Medical Card Applications

14/12/2017WRU00400318. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health if a discretionary medical card will be provided to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53513/17]

14/12/2017WRU00500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRU00550Health Services

14/12/2017WRU00600319. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter in relation to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53521/17]

14/12/2017WRU00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRU00750Outreach Clinics

14/12/2017WRU00800320. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health if a reply will issue to a request from a group (details supplied) in relation to outreach services; the funds available to the group in relation to the outreach plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53522/17]

14/12/2017WRU00900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In response to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRU00950Disability Services Provision

14/12/2017WRU01000321. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health if a reply will issue to concerns raised in correspondence (details supplied); if a commitment will be made to secure funds for the Louth Meath branch of an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53527/17]

14/12/2017WRU01100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will

200 14 December 2017 empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

The particular issue raised by the Deputy is a service matter for the HSE. Accordingly I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRU01150Nursing Homes Support Scheme Review

14/12/2017WRU01200322. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health the status of the reforms of the fair deal scheme relating to small businesses and farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53528/17]

14/12/2017WRU01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Nursing Homes Support Scheme (NHSS) is a system of financial support for those in need of long-term nursing home care. Participants contribute to the cost of their care according to their income and assets while the State pays the balance of the cost. The Scheme aims to ensure that long-term nursing home care is accessible and affordable for everyone and that people are cared for in the most appropriate settings.

When the NHSS commenced in 2009, a commitment was made that it would be reviewed after three years. The Report of the Review was published in July 2015. Arising out of the Review, a number of key issues have been identified for more detailed consideration across Departments and Agencies.

An Interdepartmental/Agency Working Group has been established to progress the recommendations contained in the Review. This Group is chaired by the Department of Health and includes representatives from the Department of the Taoiseach, the Department of Public Ex- penditure and Reform, the HSE, the Revenue Commissioners, and when required, the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF). These recommendations include examining the treatment of business and farm assets for the purposes of the financial assessment element of the Scheme. The programme for a Partnership Government has also committed to reviewing the NHSS to remove any discrimination against small businesses and family farms. It is important to remember that the NHSS is largely underpinned by primary legislation and changes to the NHSS will require legislative implementation.

On this basis, I have requested legal advice from the office of the Attorney General regarding potential changes to the legislation that will address this matter. My department has also been cognisant of this matter in the context of this years estimates process. I have recently met with representatives from the I.F.A and the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association to discuss various strategies that may assist with addressing their members concerns and have apprised them of the current progress. I remain hopeful to be in receipt of this legal advice before year end and I am committed to this review of the position with regard to family farms and small businesses for the purposes of the financial assessment of the scheme. Any proposed changes will require primary legislation and I hope to be in a position to progress this in early 2018.

14/12/2017WRU01350Primary Care Centres Staff

201 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRU01400323. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will arrange for the public health nurse to call to reassess a person (details supplied) in County Cork who requires additional home help hours [53535/17]

14/12/2017WRU01500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRU01550Hospital Appointments Status

14/12/2017WRU01600324. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health the status of a hospital appointment for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53539/17]

14/12/2017WRU01700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Ser- vice Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.

The scheduling of appointments for patients is a matter for the hospital to which the patient has been referred. Should a patient’s general practitioner consider that the patient’s condition warrants an earlier appointment, he or she should take the matter up with the consultant and the hospital involved. In relation to the specific case raised, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRU01750Hospital Appointments Status

14/12/2017WRU01800325. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive cataract surgery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53542/17]

14/12/2017WRU01900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRU01950Respite Care Services

14/12/2017WRU02000326. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health his plans to increase funding for respite care across the country in an attempt to eliminate the pressures families are under particularly in view of the post code lottery system that currently exists with supports and services for family carers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53546/17]

14/12/2017WRU02100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide

202 14 December 2017 more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRU02150General Medical Services Scheme

14/12/2017WRU02200327. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health the reason for the decision to remove lidocaine patches from the approved GMS list for chronic pain sufferers; if he will review the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53556/17]

14/12/2017WRU02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Medicines play a vital role in improving the health of Irish patients. Securing access to existing and new and innovative medicines is a key objective of the health service. However, the challenge is to do this in an affordable and sustainable manner. The medicines bill for the community drugs schemes – primarily the GMS, Long Term Illness and Drugs Payment schemes and the High Tech Arrangement – is forecast at just over €1.7 billion in 2017.

To ensure patients receive the highest quality care, resources invested in medicines must be used efficiently and effectively. This requires an integrated approach to secure best value for money for all treatments, greater efficiencies in the supply chain and the use of the most cost- effective treatments.

Lidocaine 5% medicated plaster is licensed for the symptomatic relief of neuropathic pain associated with previous herpes zoster (shingles) infection, known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), in adults. It was reimbursed in the community drugs schemes from 2010. The projected budget impact was low due to the specific licensed indication but total expenditure has increased significantly, from €9.4 million in 2012 to over €30 million in 2016, mainly from off-license use for pain not associated with shingles. Currently, over 25,000 patients receive this item.

An HSE Medicines Management Programme (MMP) review of this product highlighted that the clinical evidence for its use in PHN is limited due to lack of comparative data and its value is uncertain for all other types of pain. The National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics estimated that, in Ireland, between 5-10% of prescribing of this product is for the licensed indication of PHN.

Following the MMP review, the HSE introduced a new reimbursement system for the product from 1 September 2017. This process supports the appropriate use of Versatis, ensuring that PHN patients continue to receive this treatment. The HSE estimates that this protocol will reduce expenditure on this product by approximately 90%.

Under the protocol, all patients who were receiving antivirals for shingles were automatically approved for the lidocaine medicated plaster for three months. No action was required by GPs and the patient’s pharmacy was notified of his or her approval status.

These patients were identified and automatically registered on the HSE-PCRS system for three months and continued to receive the treatment from their pharmacy until 30 November 2017. However, from 1 December 2017, non-shingles patients will no longer get this item under the community drugs schemes. The HSE has produced information leaflets for patients and advised GPs on treatment alternatives.

In exceptional circumstances, the product may be approved for supply through the commu-

203 Questions - Written Answers nity schemes for unlicensed indications. GPs apply for reimbursement for unlicensed indications through the online system. The MMP reviews applications before a decision is made and communicated to the GP.

Full details of the review are available on the HSE website at http://hse.ie/eng/about/Who/ clinical/natclinprog/medicinemanagementprogramme/yourmedicines/lidocaine-plaster/lidocaine-medicated-plaster.html.

This decision is a matter for the HSE. However, I fully support the objectives of the HSE Medicines Management Programme.

14/12/2017WRU02350Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRU02400328. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53570/17]

14/12/2017WRU02500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Information is shown in the table in relation to legislation within my area of statutory responsibility which has been enacted since 2011 and not yet commenced. The Deputy might let me know if he would like information in regard to any specific Act enacted prior to 2011.

Acts passed since 2011 Sections not in force Current position Health and Social Care Professionals Whole Act. This Act was enacted on It is envisaged that the commence- (Amendment) Act 2017 9 December 2017. ment order to commence all sections will be made in December 2017. Civil Liability (Amendment) Act 2017 This Act was enacted in November The Minister for Health is respon- - Part 4 2017. sible for Part 4 of the Civil Liability (Amendment) Act 2017. Part 4 of the Act provides for the voluntary open disclosure of patient safety incidents. It is intended to commence Part 4 of the Act in Spring 2018. Misuse of Drugs (Amendment) Act Sections 4, 5 and 7(a) and (b). Sections 4 and 5 facilitate the com- 2016 mencement of provisions of the Irish Medicines (Miscellaneous) Provisions Act 2006, transferring responsibility for the issuing of controlled drug licences from the Minister for Health to the Health Products Regulatory Au- thority (HPRA). Sections 7(a) and (b) revoke certain statutory instruments which were confirmed under the Mis- use of Drugs (Amendment) Act 2015. These sections will be commenced when new regulations are made. Children and Family Relationships Parts 2 and 3 Regulations to facilitate the com- Act 2015 mencement of Parts 2 & 3 of the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 are being prepared. My Department is also working to resolve a small number of technical issues in order to ensure that the processes associated with Parts 2 and 3 of the Act can be commenced.

204 14 December 2017

Acts passed since 2011 Sections not in force Current position Health (General Practitioner Service) Section 2 - Amendment of section 58 Consultations are ongoing with Act 2015 of Health Act 1970. the Office of the Attorney General (AGO). A decision will be made on commencement on the conclusion of the consultation process. Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Section 82, except insofar as it relates The Assisted Decision-Making Act 2015 to the definition of “Minister”, Sec- (Capacity) Act was signed into law on tions 83 – 90, Section 91(1), except 30 December 2015. The Minister for insofar as it relates to definitions of Justice and Equality is responsible for “Code of Practice” and “Working commencement of the Assisted Deci- Group”, Sections 91(3) – 91(14), Sec- sion-Making (Capacity) Act 2015, ex- tions 92 and 93. cept for Part 8, which the Minister for Health is responsible for commencing. Part 8 of the Act provides a legislative framework for advance healthcare directives (AHDs).Section 91(2) of the Act was commenced on 17 October 2016 and a multidisciplinary Working Group was subsequently established by the Minister for Health to assist in the development of the Code of Practice on the AHD provisions. The Working Group will submit its recommendations for the Code of Practice on the AHD provisions to the Director of the Decision Support Service. The Director shall, with the consent of the Minister for Health, publish a Code of Practice, based (whether in whole or in part) on those recommendations. The preparation of this Code of Practice will facilitate the subsequent commencement of Part 8 of the Act, pertaining to AHDs, in its entirety. Health Identifiers Act 2014 Sections 7(2)-(6), 10(3), 11(1)-(5), (7), The 2014 Act provides the legal basis 12-20, 24, 35-39. for the introduction of a system of unique health identifiers for (a) individuals and (b) health services providers. It was always the intention that implementation of the health identifier project would be on a phased basis. Accordingly, the commencement of the Act’s provisions, in a timely and relevant way, is structured to support the planned phased implementation. The initial implementation focus is on the identifier for individuals and, necessary provisions in the Act, in that area, have been commenced. Health (General Practitioner Service) Sections 2, 3(a) and 9 - Amendments Following the conclusion of consulta- Act 2014 to Health Act 1970 and other issues. tions with the Office of the Attorney General (AGO) and discussions with the HSE, a decision will be made on commencement on these sections.

205 Questions - Written Answers

Acts passed since 2011 Sections not in force Current position Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Sections 6(a)(iii), 12(b), insofar as it Section 6(a)(iii), part of section 12(b) Act 2014 relates to the insertion of subsection and section 21 relate to the proposed (1B) of section 26 of the Health and division of the profession of radiog- Social Care Professionals Act 2005, rapher into the two professions of sections 21 and 23. radiographer and radiation therapist. The sections can be commenced when CORU (the statutory regulator for health and social care professionals) has made the necessary bye laws. Section 23 provides for conditions to be attached to the registration of a person with a relevant medical disability. CORU’s registration system is being updated to allow this section to be commenced. It is envisaged that commencement of these sections (6(a) (iii), part of 12(b), 21 and 23) will take place during 2018. Public Health (Sunbeds) Act 2014 Section 14. Section 14 relates to training in the use of sunbeds by sunbed business operators or their employees. This matter is still under consideration. Health (Alteration of Criteria for Section 4 - Amendment of section 47 Consultations have taken place with Eligibility) Act 2013 of Health Act 1970. the Office of the Attorney General (AGO). As commencement of this section is now bound up with the commencement of sections 2, 3(a) and 9 of the Health (General Practitioners Services) Act 2014, a decision will be made on commencement on the conclusion of the commencement process for those sections. Health (Amendment) Act 2013 Section 4. This section provides that the HSE may outsource the operation and administration of the Nursing Homes Support Scheme. However there are no plans at present to change the existing arrangements in this regard. Nurses and Midwives Act 2011 Sections 4(2), 9(2)(g)(ii), 37(2)(a), This is a comprehensive piece of 39, 40, 41, 44, 45, 59(1)(b) regarding legislation which is being commenced professional competence, 59(2)(d), on a gradual basis. 65(1)(b), 84, 87 – 91, 102(2), (3) (5) and 103.

14/12/2017WRU02550Disability Services Provision

14/12/2017WRU02600329. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the additional resources which are being provided in 2018 for homecare and respite services in view of deficiencies revealed by a recent RTÉ investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53576/17]

14/12/2017WRU02700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability.

206 14 December 2017 As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRV00200Nursing Homes Support Scheme Administration

14/12/2017WRV00300330. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health if the HSE has discretion inthe application of a certain rule (details supplied) under the nursing home support scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53578/17]

14/12/2017WRV00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Nursing Homes Support Scheme (NHSS) is a system of financial support for those in need of long-term nursing home care. Participants contribute to the cost of their care according to their income and assets while the State pays the balance of the cost. The Scheme aims to ensure that long-term nursing home care is accessible and affordable for everyone and that people are cared for in the most appropriate settings.

In order to determine how much an applicant will contribute to the cost of their care, a financial assessment is carried out by the HSE which takes account of a person’s income and assets. As part of this assessment, the HSE identifies any income or assets that the applicant and his/ her partner may have deprived themselves of in the five years leading up to their application, or at any time on or subsequent to the date on which the application for financial support under the Scheme is first made. Such assets are defined in the Nursing Homes Support Scheme Act, 2009 as ‘transferred assets’ and ‘transferred income’. Under the legislation there are no exemptions in relation to transferred assets.

Applicants to the scheme can request their financial assessment to be reviewed if 12 months have passed since the original assessment or if the HSE is satisfied that their has been a material change to their financial assessment. It should be noted that a person’s principal private residence is only included in the financial assessment for the first three years of the applicant’s time in care.

14/12/2017WRV00500Nursing Homes Support Scheme

14/12/2017WRV00600331. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health the calculation of the contribution to cost of care assessment for a person (details supplied) in County Cork under the nursing home support scheme [53579/17]

14/12/2017WRV00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRV00800Drugs Payment Scheme Coverage

14/12/2017WRV00900332. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health the status of the approval of a drug (details supplied) for inclusion in the HSE’s reimbursement scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53580/17]

14/12/2017WRV01000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drug schemes, under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013. 207 Questions - Written Answers In reaching a decision, the HSE examines all the evidence which may be relevant in its view for the decision and will take into account such expert opinions and recommendations which it may have sought, including, for example, advice from the National Centre for Pharmacoeco- nomics (NCPE).

Sapropterin (Kuvan) was considered under the national pricing and reimbursement processes in 2009. At that time, insufficient evidence was available to support the pricing and reimbursement application submitted.

In 2016, the HSE was advised that a new health technology assessment dossier would be submitted on sapropterin. The NCPE completed its assessment of the new dossier in September 2017 and did not recommend sapropterin for reimbursement, as it was not deemed cost effective at the price sought by the company.

The HSE assessment process is ongoing and the HSE will take into account any relevant expert advice when making its decision, in line with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013.

14/12/2017WRV01100HSE Staff Data

14/12/2017WRV01200333. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health the number of persons, including nurses, home help assistants and so on paid by the HSE that have received correspondence in recent months informing them that they have been overpaid for a particular period of time; the number of such persons affected; the amount overpaid in each occupation or category of employment; the reasons for same, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53585/17]

14/12/2017WRV01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

14/12/2017WRV01400Disability Support Services Provision

14/12/2017WRV01500334. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 933 of 11 September 2017, the progress in securing a residential placement for a person (details supplied) in County Cork who is profoundly disabled; the outcome of the application for emergency funding for a residential placement for this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53587/17]

14/12/2017WRV01600Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy’s question relates to an individual case, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRV01700Commencement of Legislation

208 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRV01800335. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health when the provisions of the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 will be made fully applicable to all counsellors including abortion counsellors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53592/17]

14/12/2017WRV01900336. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Health if the two year transition period which has applied to other professions under the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 will apply to counsellors; his plans to shorten or eliminate this transition period on the grounds of urgency or on other grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53593/17]

14/12/2017WRV02000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 335 and 336 together.

Draft Regulations to designate the professions of counsellor and psychotherapist under the Health and Social Care Professional Act 2005 and to establish a registration board for both professions have been laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. Resolutions to approve the draft regulations have also been submitted to each House for consideration. Subject to the approval of the Houses, the next steps will be to make the regulations and appoint the 13 members of the registration board following the submission of suitable candidates for my consideration by the Public Appointments Service.

When the registration board has been established and its members appointed early next year its primary tasks will be to commence drafting the various bye-laws to allow it to establish its registers and to advise the Health and Social Care Professional Council and my Department on some of the outstanding issues to be decided. These include the professional titles to be protected by regulation under the Act and the qualifications that ought to be required of existing practitioners in order to register. Crisis pregnancy counselling (other than that provided by doctors, nurses and social workers) will be taken into consideration in this context.

Following the opening of a register there is a two-year transitional period to allow existing practitioners time to apply for registration and satisfy the registration board that they meet the requirements for the profession. There are no plans to shorten the two year transitional period in the case of the profession of counsellor.

14/12/2017WRV02100Hospital Appointments Administration

14/12/2017WRV02200337. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Health if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will be considered for a MRI scan as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53603/17]

14/12/2017WRV02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Ser- vice Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.

209 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRV02400Hospital Appointments Administration

14/12/2017WRV02500338. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53605/17]

14/12/2017WRV02600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Ser- vice Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.

The scheduling of appointments for patients is a matter for the hospital to which the patient has been referred. Should a patient’s general practitioner consider that the patient’s condition warrants an earlier appointment, he or she should take the matter up with the consultant and the hospital involved. n relation to the specific case raised, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRV02700Hospital Charges

14/12/2017WRV02800339. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health his plans to end charges for venesections for those with haemochromatosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53612/17]

14/12/2017WRV02900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Health Act 1970 (as amended) provides that all people ordinarily resident in the country are entitled, subject to certain charges, to public in-patient hospital services including consultant services and to public out-patient hospital services. Under the Health (In-Patients Charges) (Amendment) Regulations 2008, a person who has been referred to a hospital for an in-patient service, including that provided on a day case basis, will have to pay the statutory daily charge, currently €80 per day, up to a maximum of €800 per year. On this basis, where venesection is classed as a day case procedure and is not carried out in an out-patient setting, the public in-patient charge applies.

I have received a petition calling for the removal of the €80 charge for venesection in respect of haemochromatosis patients and have asked officials in my Department to examine this matter.

14/12/2017WRV03000Hospital Beds Data

14/12/2017WRV03100340. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of additional critical care beds that have been provided at Cork university hospital in 2017. [53615/17]

14/12/2017WRV03200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRV03300Emergency Departments Waiting Times

14/12/2017WRV03400341. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if the HSE target of eliminating emergency department waiting times of greater than 24 hours for persons over 75 years of age will be met in 2017; and the number of persons over 75 years of age that have had a wait of 210 14 December 2017 more than 24 hours in an emergency department in 2017. [53616/17]

14/12/2017WRV03500432. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if persons aged 75 years of age or over have experienced an emergency department wait time of more than 24 hours in 2017; and, if so, the hospital in which the wait occurred [53883/17]

14/12/2017WRV03600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 341 and 432 together.

In response to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRV03700National Maternity Strategy Implementation

14/12/2017WRV03800342. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the development of national standards to improve access to antenatal anomaly screening in all maternity units as set out in the national maternity strategy. [53617/17]

14/12/2017WRV03900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Government is committed to the progressive development of maternity services. In 2016, Ireland’s first National Maternity Strat- egy was published, followed by the HSE’s National Standards for Bereavement Care following Pregnancy Loss and Perinatal Death and HIQA’s National Standards for Safer Better Maternity Services. In 2017, a National Women & Infants Health Programme has been established within the HSE to lead the management, organisation and delivery of maternity, gynaecological and neonatal services across primary, community and acute care.

The Strategy is very clear that all women must have equal access to standardised ultrasound services. It will be implemented on a phased basis and this work will be led by the Programme. In October last, I was pleased to launch the Programme’s Implementation Plan for the Strategy. That plan includes a number of actions to facilitate the provision by all maternity hospitals/units of dating and anomaly scans to all pregnant women. Indeed, the issue of anomaly scanning is a priority issue for the Programme and I am advised that it will continue to work with the six Hospital Groups to assist in increasing access to anomaly scans for those units with limited availability.

I can confirm that additional funding will be provided for anomaly scanning in 2018, the detail of which will be set out in the National Service Plan 2018. In relation to the specific queries raised, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRW00200Bereavement Care

14/12/2017WRW00300343. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the implementation of a range of improvement actions based on the national standards for bereavement care following pregnancy loss and perinatal death across all 19 maternity units. [53618/17]

14/12/2017WRW00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE National Standards for Bereave- ment Care following Pregnancy Loss and Perinatal Death provide that clinical and counselling services should be in place to support women and their families in all pregnancy loss situations, from early pregnancy loss to perinatal death, as well as situations where there is a diagnosis of foetal anomaly that may be life limiting or fatal. Each hospital will be required to have systems in place to ensure that bereavement care and end-of-life care for babies is central to the mission of the hospital and is organised around the needs of babies and their families. I am advised that 211 Questions - Written Answers the Standards will be implemented on a phased basis by a dedicated Bereavement Standards Implementation Group in association with the National Women & Infants Health Programme.

In relation to the specific query raised by the Deputy, I have asked the HSE to reply to you directly.

14/12/2017WRW00500Hospitals Building Programme

14/12/2017WRW00600344. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the relocation of the Rotunda Hospital, the National Maternity Hospital and University of Limerick Maternity Hospital. [53619/17]

14/12/2017WRW00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The model of stand-alone maternity hospitals is not the norm internationally. Government policy is therefore to co-locate all remaining maternity hospitals with adult acute services in order to provide optimal clinical outcomes. Co- location of maternity services with adult services provides mothers with access to a full range of medical and support services should the need arise. The availability of these services helps ensure the delivery of an optimum, safe service, particularly for high risk mothers and babies.

Following the grant of planning permission for the new National Maternity Hospital on the St Vincent’s University Hospital campus, the Design Team is continuing to work on the detailed design of the hospital and the preparation of tender documents. This development will of course represent the flagship project of the National Maternity Strategy and will constitute the largest single investment ever made in maternity services in Ireland. Work on a legal framework to protect the State’s interest in the project is expected to conclude shortly.

I have been advised that the Rotunda hospital has commissioned consultants to prepare a draft Design Brief. In addition, I understand that work is nearing completion on a Development Control Plan for the Connolly campus and this will support the orderly development of future capital projects on that campus. In relation to the redevelopment and relocation of University Maternity Hospital Limerick, I understand that a site feasibility study has been completed and a location has been determined for a new maternity hospital on the grounds of University Hos- pital Limerick at Dooradoyle.

14/12/2017WRW00800Patient Safety

14/12/2017WRW00900345. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the provision of monthly hospital safety statements; and the hospitals that provide them, in tabular form. [53620/17]

14/12/2017WRW01000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

These Reports are an important step in the enhancement of patient safety and quality which is of paramount importance to both the Department of Health and the HSE. The publication of these reports were key recommendations of the Chief Medical Officer’s report: HSE Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise Perinatal Deaths (2006-date), 24 February 2014 and of the HIQA Report of the Investigation into the Safety, Quality and Standards of Services Provided by the HSE to patients in the Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise, 8 May 2015.

The HSE undertook as part of the 2017 Service Plan that all publicly funded hospitals would actively engage in the reporting of monthly Hospital Patient Safety Indicator Reports. The De- 212 14 December 2017 partment will continue to engage with the Executive on the regular reporting and assessment of these statements.

14/12/2017WRW01100Primary Care Services Provision

14/12/2017WRW01200346. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the roll-out of the model of care of hereditary haemochromatosis and the model of care for therapeutic phlebotomy in association with primary care services. [53621/17]

14/12/2017WRW01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Reports on a Model of Care for Hereditary Haemochromatosis and a Model of Care for Therapeutic Phlebotomy for Patients with Heredi- tary Haemochromatosis have been drawn up by the HSE.

The recommendations of the reports include a number that involve more treatment for people with haemochromatosis being made available in primary care settings. My Department is reviewing the reports, with a view to commencing implementation in the light of available resources.

14/12/2017WRW01400Primary Care Centres Provision

14/12/2017WRW01500347. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health the status of the provision of new health facilities (details supplied); when these projects will proceed to the next stage; if specific funding will be provided in 2018 for these developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53710/17]

14/12/2017WRW01600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As the HSE has responsibility for the provision, along with the maintenance and operation of Primary Care Centres and other Primary Care facilities, the Executive has been asked to reply directly to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRW01700Hospitals Car Park Charges

14/12/2017WRW01800348. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health the HSE’s policy in relation to the operation of car parks within hospital grounds; the amount of revenue collected by hospital in respect of those car parks nationally; his views on the charges persons have to pay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53773/17]

14/12/2017WRW01900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The efficient management of parking spaces and traffic flow on hospital campuses is of crucial importance. This is to ensure on-going availability of parking spaces; free flow of traffic on campus; unobstructed access for emergency vehicles at all times; proper use of spaces designated for drivers with disabled permits; and proper use of spaces designated as drop off points near the hospital entrance.

I am advised that some hospitals have introduced a maximum daily fixed parking charge while others provide reduced parking rates for long-term patients and visitors for whom the payment of the full rate would cause hardship. The HSE has advised me that it keeps hospital parking charges under review.

As the issue of car parking is an operational matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly regarding the particular queries raised.

213 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRW02000Health Strategies

14/12/2017WRW02100349. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of hospital groups and CHOs that have completed Healthy Ireland implementation plans. [53796/17]

14/12/2017WRW02200Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As this is an operational matter, I have asked the HSE to respond directly to you. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up on the matter.

14/12/2017WRW02300Health Promotion

14/12/2017WRW02400350. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if an implementation plan for the Healthy Ireland framework for brief intervention and health behaviour change has been developed; and if it has been commenced. [53798/17]

14/12/2017WRW02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): Making Ev- ery Contact Count (MECC) was launched in May as a framework to support the implementation of Healthy Ireland in the health services. The vision for MECC is that health behaviour change interventions will become part of routine clinical care delivered by health professionals in the health service. It will capitalise on the opportunities that every health professional has on a daily basis to support patients to make healthy lifestyle choices for chronic disease prevention and the self-management of existing chronic diseases.

Implementing this programme will result in patients being routinely asked about the main lifestyle risk factors for chronic disease - tobacco use, alcohol & substance use, diet, and physical activity.

A five year implementation plan has been developed for the Framework which will be implemented at a strategic and operational level under the following areas:

- Leadership;

- Staff Engagement, Training and Support;

- Partnership and Cross Sectoral Working; and

- Monitoring and Evaluation.

As implementation of the MECC is an operational matter for the Health Service Executive, I have forwarded the question to the Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up on the matter.

14/12/2017WRW02600Diabetes Strategy

14/12/2017WRW02700351. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if each newly diagnosed person with diabetes is now being offered a place on the next available structured patient education course. [53799/17]

14/12/2017WRW02800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

214 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRW02900Health Strategies

14/12/2017WRW03000352. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if a self-management support framework for diabetes, asthma, COPD and cardiovascular disease has been developed; and when the implementation plan will commence. [53800/17]

14/12/2017WRW03100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRW03200Health Reports

14/12/2017WRW03300353. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if a needs assessment for cardiac rehabilitation has been undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53801/17]

14/12/2017WRW03400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRW03500Disease Management

14/12/2017WRW03600354. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the development of the standardised chronic disease pathway. [53802/17]

14/12/2017WRW03700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRX00150Chronic Disease Management Programme

14/12/2017WRX00200354. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the development of the standardised chronic disease pathway. [53802/17]

14/12/2017WRX00300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRX00350Tobacco Control Measures

14/12/2017WRX00400355. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of tobacco sales to minors test purchase inspections carried out in 2017. [53803/17]

14/12/2017WRX00500356. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the proportion of new and existing sites with tobacco free campus policy implemented in residential units for older persons in mental health approved centres, in mental health community residencies and in residential disability services. [53804/17]

14/12/2017WRX00600357. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of front-line health care workers trained in 2017 to screen and support smokers to quit. [53806/17]

14/12/2017WRX00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 355, 356 and 357 together.

215 Questions - Written Answers As these matters are service issues I have sent these questions to the Health Service Execu- tive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRX00750Hospital Food

14/12/2017WRX00800358. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the public and voluntary hospitals that have and have not calorie posting in place, respectively, in tabular form. [53807/17]

14/12/2017WRX00900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up on the matter.

14/12/2017WRX00950Hospital Food

14/12/2017WRX01000359. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the public and voluntary hospitals that have implemented and not implemented, respectively, the healthier vending policy, in tabular form. [53808/17]

14/12/2017WRX01100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up on the matter.

14/12/2017WRX01150Hospital Food

14/12/2017WRX01200360. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the acute hospitals that have and have not, respectively, a HSE hospital food and nutrition policy developed and implemented, in tabular form. [53809/17]

14/12/2017WRX01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up on the matter.

14/12/2017WRX01350Nursing Education

14/12/2017WRX01400361. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of public health nurses that have received training on the nutrition reference pack for infants aged zero to 12 months. [53810/17]

14/12/2017WRX01500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As the Dep- uty’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRX01550Alcohol Treatment Programmes

216 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRX01600362. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of additional area alcohol action plans developed in 2017. [53811/17]

14/12/2017WRX01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): Community Action on Alcohol is an evidence based, public health approach to reducing alcohol harms. It requires community leadership and locally based action and is underpinned by community development principles.

Community Action on Alcohol was initiated as a pilot project in 2015 and has now been initiated in 19 communities across Ireland. Eleven additional area action plans have been published and launched in 2017.

14/12/2017WRX01750Positive Ageing Strategy Implementation

14/12/2017WRX01800363. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the details of the national implementation plan to promote positive ageing. [53812/17]

14/12/2017WRX01900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): The National Positive Ageing Strategy (NPAS), published on 24 April 2013, provides a framework for cooperation to address age-related policy and service delivery across Government and society in the years ahead. The Strategy is intended to promote older people’s health and well being so that older people can continue to contribute to social, economic, cultural and family life in their own communities for as long as possible, thereby representing a vision for an age-friendly society. The Strategy highlights that ageing is not just a health issue, but rather requires a whole of Government approach to address a range of social, economic and environmental factors that affect the health and well-being of our ageing citizens.

At the launch of the Strategy, a commitment was made to publish an Implementation Plan to facilitate the translation of the Goals and Objectives of the Strategy into action on the ground. The approach to implementation originally included in the Strategy would have worked where a finite number of discrete and concrete steps could be taken after which the implementation could be deemed complete. However, many of the objectives included in this Strategy are quite broad, and can be viewed as a set of principles to which Government has committed, and which will inform policies that affect older people on an indefinite basis into the future, rather than concrete objectives that can be delivered in the short term.

The Department has therefore formulated new arrangements to implement and monitor the implementation of the National Positive Ageing Strategy. The revised arrangements were approved by the Cabinet Committee on Social Policy and Public Service Reform on 27 October, 2016.

The new arrangements establish mechanisms that will give stakeholder groups effective and on-going access to Government Departments and State Agencies relevant to older people. This includes an annual Forum for stakeholders to identify what they consider to be their key priorities for Government for the coming year and the next three years; and establishing clear channels of communications between stakeholders and relevant Government Departments. In this regard, stakeholder representatives will engage with a named senior official on issues relevant to their remit, in order that the priorities identified by the stakeholders at the Forum can be pursued.

The inaugural stakeholder Forum took place on 30th March 2017, and was attended by civic society organisations who are representative of the needs and views of older people in Ireland. Following on from this successful Forum, the Department of Health has opened a dialogue 217 Questions - Written Answers with each of the Government Departments identified as having responsibility for the priorities agreed by stakeholders, in order that they are aware of the issues for discussion prior to being contacted by a stakeholder representative group. The Department of Health will meet with the stakeholder representative group in early 2018 to review the progress made and plan for the next stakeholder forum.

As part of the NPAS implementation process, a Healthy and Positive Ageing Initiative has been established in collaboration with the HSE’s Health and Wellbeing Programme and the Atlantic Philanthropies to measure the impact of the Strategy and establish an ongoing system for measuring and reporting on Positive Ageing. The Initiative will monitor changes in older people’s health and well-##being linked to the Goals and Objectives of the National Positive Ageing Strategy. This will be done primarily through the development of Positive Ageing indicators to be published every two years. The Initiative is intended to provide evidence of the factors contributing to positive ageing, including at local level and ultimately inform policy responses to population ageing in Ireland. The first national Positive Ageing Indicators report was published in 2016 and highlights many of the positive and negative aspects of growing old in Ireland.

The National Positive Ageing Strategy and the activities of the HaPAI are strongly embed- ded within the vision and actions set out for Healthy Ireland, the Government-led initiative which aims to create an Irish society where people of all ages can enjoy good physical and mental health, and where well-##being is supported at every level of society. The Healthy Ireland Framework was launched in 2013 and seeks to provide people and communities with accurate information on how to improve their health and well-##being and to make the healthy choices easier choices. Healthy Ireland takes a whole-of-Government and whole-of-society approach to improving health and well-being and the quality of people’s lives and a number of new structures have been put in place to ensure that all sectors of society are given opportunities to participate.

14/12/2017WRX01950Cancer Screening Programmes

14/12/2017WRX02000364. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of eligible women aged 50 to 64 years of age screened under BreastCheck to date in 2017. [53813/17]

14/12/2017WRX02100365. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of eligible women aged 65 to 69 years of age screened under BreastCheck to date in 2017. [53814/17]

14/12/2017WRX02200367. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the percentage uptake of breast screening among the eligible population to date in 2017. [53816/17]

14/12/2017WRX02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 364, 365 and 367 together.

BreastCheck currently invites women aged 50 to 66 for bi-annual mammograms. This age range is being extended to the age of 69 on a phased basis. By the end of 2021, all women aged between 50 and 69 will be invited for routine breast screening.

74.9% of women in the eligible population have been screened through BreastCheck to 31 October 2017. In numerical terms, 122,658 of eligible women between the ages of 50-64 and 12,756 eligible women between the ages of 65-69 were screened to the end of October.

14/12/2017WRX02350Health Services Data 218 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRX02400366. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of babies breastfed exclusively and not exclusively, respectively, at the first public health nurse visit and the three month public health nurse developmental check. respectively. [53815/17]

14/12/2017WRX02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As the Dep- uty’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Question No. 367 answered with Question No. 364.

14/12/2017WRX02650Cancer Screening Programmes

14/12/2017WRX02700368. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of women that have had one or more cervical check smear tests in a primary care setting to date in 2017. [53819/17]

14/12/2017WRX02750369. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the percentage of eligible women with at least one satisfactory cervical check screening in a five year period. [53820/17]

14/12/2017WRX02800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 368 and 369 together.

All women in Ireland between the ages of 25 and 60 can avail of free cervical screening tests through CervicalCheck - the national cervical screening programme. Women can choose to have their screening test carried out from over 4,500 practice nurses, GP and health clinics nationwide. 79.9% of eligible women have had at least one satisfactory smear test in a five year period up to 31st October 2017.

14/12/2017WRY00500Health Services Staff

14/12/2017WRY00600370. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of self-management support co-ordinators appointed at CHO level. [53821/17]

14/12/2017WRY00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As this is an operational matter, I have asked the HSE to respond directly to you. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up on the matter.

14/12/2017WRY00800Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRY00900371. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of local and national partnership plans developed and agreed under the dementia understand together campaign. [53822/17]

14/12/2017WRY01000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRY01100Hospital Appointments Delays

219 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRY01200372. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the percentage of urgent cases in 2017 offered a colonoscopy appointment within two weeks of receipt of a letter in the clinic. [53823/17]

14/12/2017WRY01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In response to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRY01400Cancer Screening Programmes

14/12/2017WRY01500373. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons checked under the BowelScreen programme in 2017. [53824/17]

14/12/2017WRY01600374. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the expected uptake rate for the BowelScreen programme in 2017. [53825/17]

14/12/2017WRY01700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 373 and 374 together.

As of 31 October 2017 - 101,829 people had been checked under the BowelScreen programme in 2017. The expected uptake rate for the programme in 2017 is 41%.

14/12/2017WRY01800Infectious Disease Incidence

14/12/2017WRY01900375. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of infectious disease outbreaks notified under the national infectious disease reporting schedule in 2017. [53826/17]

14/12/2017WRY02000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY02100Infectious Disease Incidence

14/12/2017WRY02200376. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of individual outbreak associated cases of infectious disease notified under the national infectious diseases reporting schedule in 2017. [53827/17]

14/12/2017WRY02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY02400Vaccination Programme Data

14/12/2017WRY02500377. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the national primary childhood immunisation uptake rates for conditions (details supplied) in 2017 for each CHO in tabular form. [53828/17]

14/12/2017WRY02600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY02700Vaccination Programme Data

220 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRY02800378. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the influenza virus uptake rate amongst persons 65 years of age and over in 2017. [53829/17]

14/12/2017WRY02900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY03000Vaccination Programme Data

14/12/2017WRY03100379. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the influenza virus uptake rate amongst health care workers in 2017 in acute hospitals. [53830/17]

14/12/2017WRY03200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY03300Vaccination Programme Data

14/12/2017WRY03400380. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the influenza virus uptake rate amongst health care workers in 2017 in long-term care facilities in the community. [53831/17]

14/12/2017WRY03500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY03600Food Safety Authority of Ireland Inspections

14/12/2017WRY03700381. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of official food control planned and planned surveillance inspections of food businesses in 2017. [53832/17]

14/12/2017WRY03800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have been advised by the HSE that from 1 January 2017 to close of business on 11 December 2017 its Environmental Health Service has completed 31,024 official food control planned and planned surveillance inspections under the HSE/Food Safety Authority of Ireland Service Contract.

14/12/2017WRY03900Water Quality

14/12/2017WRY04000382. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of drinking water samples taken to assess fluoride parameter compliance in 2017. [53833/17]

14/12/2017WRY04100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY04200HSE Complaints Procedures

14/12/2017WRY04300383. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the percentage to date in 2017 of environmental health complaints from the public risk-assessed within one working day. [53834/17]

14/12/2017WRY04400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): This is a matter for the HSE therefore I have referred the question to the HSE for attention and direct reply. 221 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRY04500Chronic Disease Management Programme

14/12/2017WRY04600384. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the evaluation of the 2016 asthma and COPD advice line service in collaboration with organisations (details supplied). [53835/17]

14/12/2017WRY04700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRY04800Hospitals Data

14/12/2017WRY04900385. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of ultrasounds provided to date in 2017 across care sites (details supplied). [53836/17]

14/12/2017WRY05000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRY05100Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRY05200386. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the care support packages for children discharged from hospital with complex medical conditions to date in 2017. [53837/17]

14/12/2017WRY05300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRY05400Speech and Language Therapy Data

14/12/2017WRY05500387. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of additional primary care speech and language assessment and therapy appointments provided to date in 2017. [53838/17]

14/12/2017WRY05600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRZ00200Health Services Staff Data

14/12/2017WRZ00300388. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of assistant psychol- ogy posts recruited in 2017 to deliver rapid access low-intensity psychological interventions for young persons. [53839/17]

14/12/2017WRZ00400389. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of staff grade psy- chology posts recruited in 2017 for services for children in geographical areas in which there are inadequate numbers of posts in place. [53840/17]

14/12/2017WRZ00500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 388 and 389 together. 222 14 December 2017 As these are a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRZ00600Health Services Provision

14/12/2017WRZ00700390. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if a computerised cognitive behavioural therapy programme for young persons has been provided. [53841/17]

14/12/2017WRZ00800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRZ00900Orthodontic Services Waiting Lists

14/12/2017WRZ01000391. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of children waiting more than three years for orthodontic services. [53842/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRZ01200Substance Misuse

14/12/2017WRZ01300392. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of HSE staff who have received training in 2017 on SAOR screening and brief intervention for problem alcohol and substance use. [53843/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01400393. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of new patients that have received access to naxolone in 2017. [53844/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01500412. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of adults who have been deemed appropriate for treatment for substance use in 2017; and the number who have received treatment within one calendar month, by LHO, in tabular form. [53863/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01600413. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of children who have been deemed appropriate for treatment for substance use in 2017; and the number who have received treatment within one week, by LHO, in tabular form. [53864/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01700414. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the review of services in all CHOs in relation to the person-centred care planning processes of the drugs rehabilitation framework reassessment, key working and care planning. [53865/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01800417. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the HSE training programme for addiction staff, level 2 general practitioners and pharmacists in relation to buprenorphine naloxone and buprenorphine products. [53868/17]

14/12/2017WRZ01900418. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the increase in addiction residential treatment beds and additional treatment episodes that has been provided in 2017. [53869/17]

14/12/2017WRZ02000419. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the development of integrated care pathways and referral pathways from the pharmacy needle exchange to other agencies. [53870/17]

223 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRZ02100420. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the details of the expansion of other paraphernalia such as foil within the pharmacy needle exchange programme to allow persons the option of smoking rather than injecting. [53871/17]

14/12/2017WRZ02200421. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the guidelines and strategic statement on hidden harm. [53872/17]

14/12/2017WRZ02300423. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the average waiting time from referral to assessment for opioid substitution treatment. [53874/17]

14/12/2017WRZ02400425. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the average waiting time from opioid substitution assessment to exit from waiting list or treatment commenced. [53876/17]

14/12/2017WRZ02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 392, 393, 412 to 414, inclusive, 417 to 421, inclusive, 423 and 425 together.

As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRZ02600Human Trafficking

14/12/2017WRZ02700394. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if a HSE plan has been developed to provided supports and appropriate health services for victims of human trafficking. [53845/17]

14/12/2017WRZ02800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As the issue raised by the Deputy relates to a service matter, I have referred it to the Health Service Execu- tive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRAA00200Palliative Care Services

14/12/2017WRAA00300395. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the implementation of each of the ten recommendations from the palliative care support beds review, in tabular form. [53846/17]

14/12/2017WRAA00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRAA00500Minor Ailments Scheme

14/12/2017WRAA00600396. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the evaluation of the 2016 pharmacy based minor ailment scheme pilot project; and if the project will be extended further. [53847/17]

14/12/2017WRAA00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As the HSE has responsibility for this matter, I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy on this issue.

14/12/2017WRAA00800Medical Card Data

224 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRAA00900397. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons covered by medical cards on 1 December 2017. [53848/17]

14/12/2017WRAA01000398. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons covered by general practitioner visit cards on 1 December 2017. [53849/17]

14/12/2017WRAA01100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 397 and 398 together.

As these questions relate to service matters, I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRAA01200Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRAA01300399. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of children that have attended a CAMHS service in 2017. [53850/17]

14/12/2017WRAA01400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRAA01500Health Services Expenditure

14/12/2017WRAA01600400. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health when multi-annual plans and budgets for health expenditure both current and capital will be brought forward. [53851/17]

14/12/2017WRAA01700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Programme for Partnership Government set out the Government’s intention to work with the Oireachtas to sustain appropriate annual increases in the Health Budget. Expenditure is to be based on multi-year budgeting supported by a five year Health Service Plan based on realistic and verifiable projections; at present, the Health System is not in a position to make realistic, verifiable projections using a “bottom up” approach. The Department is currently considering how best to practically implement this commitment and work is on-going in the development of the different elements required, and there are some existing building blocks already in place including:

(i) Planning for Health – Trends and Priorities to Inform Service Planning

The HSE publishes a report titled “Planning for Health – Trends and Priorities to inform Health Service Planning” on an annual basis.

(ii) ESRI Medium-Term Projection Model of Healthcare Demand

Important work is currently underway as part of the joint Department of Health/ESRI Re- search Programme in Healthcare Reform that will assist in achieving the objective of introducing multi-annual budgeting supported by a 5 year Health Service Plan.

(iii) Activity Based Funding

Since January of 2016, funding for inpatient and daycase activity in the 38 largest public hospitals has been on an ABF basis. Hospitals are now given fixed ABF allocations, with any funding associated with inpatient and day case activity effectively being withdrawn, and subsequently earned back following delivery of agreed ABF activity targets, up to a maximum of the fixed ABF budget. Performance in this regard is monitored on a monthly basis. 225 Questions - Written Answers (iv) Other Initiatives

Other important initiatives in this regard include work relating to the community costing programme, the development of a new model of care for the health service and the Bed Capac- ity Review.

In the meantime, in the context of the annual Estimates process, the HSE are undertaking work on Budgeting and Service Planning for 2018 and, as with previous years, the National Service Plan for 2018 is expected to be published in December 2017.

(v) Capital funding

The Exchequer Capital Envelopes 2018-2021 and outcomes of the Mid-Term Review of the Capital Plan were published in the context of Budget 2018. Health capital funding for 2018 was outlined in the recently published Public Service Estimates for 2018 and the HSE is currently developing its Capital Plan for 2018-2021.

14/12/2017WRAA01800HSE National Service Plan

14/12/2017WRAA01900401. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health when the HSE will publish a five-year service plan. [53852/17]

14/12/2017WRAA02000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Programme for Partnership Govern- ment set out our intention to work with the Oireachtas to sustain appropriate annual increases in the Health Budget. Expenditure will be based on multi-year budgeting supported by a five year Health Service Plan based on realistic and verifiable projections. The funding increases provided to the HSE since this Government came into office, and the enhanced performance and accountability framework introduced by the HSE, provide an important basis for planning multi-annual health expenditure and the operation of the health services within the limits determined by the Oireachtas. These will be key to the sustainability of this approach.

The development of such a multi-year service plan will have to align with the future implementation plan for the Sláintecare report, which was published earlier this year.

My Department is currently working on a response to the Sláintecare report to bring to Government and a plan on how best to progress the many recommendations in the report. This response is being developed with input from the HSE. I expect to be in a position to bring this to Government very early in the new year.

In the meantime, the HSE formally submitted their National Service Plan for 2018 to the Department on 8th December. Following the submission of the National Service Plan, the legislation provides 21 days for me to examine the proposed Plan and where necessary to seek amendment to, or approve, the Plan. The National Service Plan must be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas within 21 days of its approval. Once the Service Plan is laid before the Hous- es of the Oireachtas the HSE will ensure it is published at the earliest possible time.

14/12/2017WRAA02100National Treatment Purchase Fund

14/12/2017WRAA02200402. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the allocation of the €15 million in 2017 to fund the National Treatment Purchase Fund to urgently address waiting lists for those persons waiting longest; the amount of this funding that has now been spent; and the number of persons that will receive scheduled treatment as a result of this expen- 226 14 December 2017 diture. [53853/17]

14/12/2017WRAA02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I acknowledge that waiting times are often unacceptably long and I am conscious of the burden that this places on patients and their families.

Reducing waiting times for the longest waiting patients is one of this Government’s key priorities. Consequently, Budget 2017 allocated €20 million to the NTPF with €15 million of this allocation set aside for the treatment of those patients waiting longest for inpatient and daycase procedures.

In order to reduce the numbers of long-waiting patients, the HSE developed Waiting List Action Plans for 2017 in the areas of Inpatient/Daycase, Scoliosis and Outpatient Services. The Inpatient/Daycase Action Plan was delivered through a combination of normal hospital activity, as well as insourcing and outsourcing initiatives utilising NTPF funding.

The NTPF has advised that to date under their initiatives over 18,400 patients have been authorised for treatment, over 8,800 patients have accepted an offer of treatment and that over 4,700 patients have received their procedure. Patient treatment under these initiatives will continue until year end.

14/12/2017WRAA02400Mental Health Services

14/12/2017WRAA02500403. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the way in which his Department is honouring the commitment to fully implement A Vision for Change. [53854/17]

14/12/2017WRAA02600Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): ‘A Vision for Change’ set out a 10-year policy framework for Ireland’s mental health services. It recommended that interventions should be aimed at maximising recovery from mental illness, building on service user and social network resources to achieve meaningful integration and participation in community life. In addition, it recommended that mental health services should be organised nationally in catchment areas for populations of between 250,000 and 400,000 and that specialist expertise should be provided by community mental health teams - expanded multidisciplinary teams of clinicians who work together to fulfil the needs of service users.

Progress, while slower than originally anticipated, continues to be made in implementing the Report’s recommendations. A number of service improvements have been implemented in parallel with the accelerated closure of old psychiatric hospitals and their replacement with be- spoke new facilities, better suited to modern mental health care. Service improvements include the development of adult and child & adolescent services, shorter episodes of in-patient care, the adoption of a recovery approach in the delivery of services, and the involvement of service users in service planning and delivery.

Other ongoing developments include the development of counselling services across both primary and secondary care, including early intervention at primary care level; a greater awareness of fostering mental health promotion in society through campaigns; the publication of the Expert Review Group Report on the Mental Health Act 2001 and the Suicide Prevention Strat- egy ‘Connecting for Life’; and the commencement of work on the new National Forensic Hos- pital to replace the Central Mental Hospital in Dundrum. In addition, funding has been made available to facilitate the transfer of some patients from the Forensic Mental Health Services to the community, investment in high observation in acute mental health units, the improvement of 24/7 services through additional liaison psychiatry services, new clinical programmes and provision of additional clinical space in community services. 227 Questions - Written Answers ‘A Vision for Change’ came to the end of its 10-year term in 2016 and preparations for a review and updating of policy have been underway since early last year. An external evidence and expert review was completed on 17 February 2017 which provides evidence to determine the policy direction for a revision of A Vision for Change, both in terms of international best practice and the experience of implementing A Vision for Change. An Oversight Group has been established to produce a high-level policy framework which sets out future service priorities. This Group will oversee the development of a refreshed policy for mental health based on the recommendations arising out of the Expert Review. The policy review process will also involve consultation with key stakeholders.

14/12/2017WRAA02700Ambulance Service Data

14/12/2017WRAA02800404. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of ambulance at- tendances at each emergency department nationwide in November 2017; the number of such ambulances that waited longer than of 20 minutes to hand over patients, get their trolleys back and return to responding to calls; and the number that waited longer than 40, 60, 90, 120 and 180 minutes for same, in tabular form. [53855/17]

14/12/2017WRAA02900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRAA03000Medicinal Products Prices

14/12/2017WRAA03100405. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of medicines that have had their price reduced as of 1 December 2017 further to the framework agreement on the supply and pricing of medicines; the details of each medicine; and the extent of the price cut. [53856/17]

14/12/2017WRAA03200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drug schemes, in accordance with the provisions of the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013.

The four-year Framework Agreement on the Supply and Pricing of Medicines (IPHA Agree- ment), signed in July 2016, provides for an annual price realignment, which will ensure that the prices of medicines in Ireland reduce in line with price reductions across the reference countries. The details of this realignment is published by the HSE’s Corporate Pharmaceutical unit on their website, the details of which can be found at the following link: https://www.hse.ie/ eng/about/Who/cpu/IPHA-Price-Reduction-2017/.

14/12/2017WRAA03300Primary Care Reimbursement Service

14/12/2017WRAA03400406. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if online primary care reimbursement service, PCRS, processing has now been extended to dentists and clinical dental technicians. [53857/17]

14/12/2017WRAA03500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRAA03600Medical Card Applications 228 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRAA03700407. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health when the web based paperless medical card application process to reduce the number of paper based applications will be introduced. [53858/17]

14/12/2017WRAA03800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRAA03900Health Services

14/12/2017WRAA04000408. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the progress that has been made on considering the further recommendations of the clinical advisory group including conclusions on the assessment of the burden of disease as agreed for implementation by the HSE and his Department. [53859/17]

14/12/2017WRAA04100409. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if the HSE has developed a burden of illness assessment tool. [53860/17]

14/12/2017WRAA04200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 408 and 409 together.

The Clinical Advisory Group (CAG) was established by the Director General of the Health Service Executive (HSE) in January 2015 to provide clinical oversight and guidance to the operation of a more compassionate and trusted medical card system.

This group has been working on the development of the assessment form which will seek to capture the additional financial costs associated with an illness and which will assist the HSE in assessing an individual for a discretionary medical card.

The CAG is continuing to work on the development of guidance on assessing medical card applications involving significant medical conditions. As the group was established by reports to the HSE, I have forward the Deputy’s question to the HSE for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRBB00200Medicinal Products

14/12/2017WRBB00300410. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the additional resources that have been provided to ensure that the assessment process for new medicines is implemented effectively. [53861/17]

14/12/2017WRBB00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drug schemes, in accordance with the provisions of the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRBB00500General Practitioner Training

14/12/2017WRBB00600411. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if new arrangements for management of general practitioners training involving the Irish College of General Practitioners have been finalised and implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53862/17]

14/12/2017WRBB00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As GP training is currently the responsibility 229 Questions - Written Answers of the HSE, I have arranged for the question to be transferred to the Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Questions Nos. 412 to 414, inclusive, answered with Question No. 392.

14/12/2017WRBB01700Medicinal Products Availability

14/12/2017WRBB01800415. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if regulations to allow for the introduction of buprenorphine naloxone and buprenorphine products have been agreed and introduced. [53866/17]

14/12/2017WRBB01900416. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the working group to progress increased access to buprenorphine naloxone and buprenorphine products. [53867/17]

14/12/2017WRBB02000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 415 and 416 together.

In January 2016, the Director General of the HSE submitted the final report of the Opioid Substitution Implementation Group to the Minister of State with responsibility for the national drugs strategy. The report recommends the phased increased access to buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) for groups of patients in specific circumstances, subject to resourcing and the required legislation being enacted.

Approximately 80 people currently receive suboxone for opioid dependence and are registered on the Central Treatment List (CTL) on an informal basis. For the feasibility study, the CTL was required to set up, manage and maintain a separate national database for all clients in receipt of buprenorphine/naloxone treatment. However, unlike the CTL for Methadone this did not have a statutory footing.

New Regulations, the Misuse of Drugs (Supervision of Prescription and Supply of Meth- adone and Medicinal Products containing Buprenorphine authorised for Opioid Substitution Treatment) Regulations 2017 came into effect on 22 November 2017. The purpose of these Regulations is to provide access to certain buprenorphine-based medicinal products for Opi- oid Substitution Treatment (including buprenorphine/naloxone and buprenorphine only) on the same statutory basis as methadone.

Questions Nos. 417 to 421, inclusive, answered with Question No. 392.

14/12/2017WRCC00200Drug Treatment Programmes Data

14/12/2017WRCC00300422. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons in receipt of opioid substitution treatment outside prisons. [53873/17]

14/12/2017WRCC00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): The HSE maintains the Central Treatment List, which is a register of all clients in receipt of opioid substitution treatment for problem opiate use in Ireland. As at 31 October 2017, the latest month for which figures are available, 9,674 individuals were in receipt of opioid substitution treatment outside of the prison setting.

Question No. 423 answered with Question No. 392.

230 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRCC00600Home Help Service Data

14/12/2017WRCC00700424. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of home help hours provided in each local health office area monthly in 2017 to date; and the way in which this compares against target in tabular form. [53875/17]

14/12/2017WRCC00800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Question No. 425 answered with Question No. 392.

14/12/2017WRCC01000Primary Care Centres Provision

14/12/2017WRCC01100426. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the status of the delivery of the primary care education pathways and research in dementia education programme to primary care teams in collaboration with the dementia office and social care services; the number of sites that have been selected for same; and the location of each. [53877/17]

14/12/2017WRCC01200Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRCC01300Home Help Service Data

14/12/2017WRCC01400427. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of home care packages being provided in each LHO area in tabular form. [53878/17]

14/12/2017WRCC01500429. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of home help hours being provided in each LHO area in tabular form. [53880/17]

14/12/2017WRCC01600498. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of home care packages being provided in each LHO area. [54107/17]

14/12/2017WRCC01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 427, 429 and 498 together.

As these are service matters I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRCC01800Home Help Service Data

14/12/2017WRCC01900428. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of intensive home care packages being provided in each LHO area in tabular form. [53879/17]

14/12/2017WRCC02000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Question No. 429 answered with Question No. 427.

231 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRCC02200Hospital Beds Data

14/12/2017WRCC02300430. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of beds and wards in all public and voluntary acute hospitals that were closed on 8 December 2017 or the latest date on which data for validated bed closures at hospital and ward level are available in tabular form. [53881/17]

14/12/2017WRCC02400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRCC02500Hospitals Discharges

14/12/2017WRCC02600431. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of delayed discharges in all public and voluntary acute hospitals at the end of November 2017 or the latest date available; and the number of which have been delayed for periods (details supplied) in tabular form. [53882/17]

14/12/2017WRCC02700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Recent data received from the HSE show that as of 5 December 2017 the number of delayed discharges in all public and voluntary acute hospitals was 555.

In response to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly.

Question No. 432 answered with Question No. 341.

14/12/2017WRCC02900Organ Donation Data

14/12/2017WRCC03000433. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the targets in place for organ donation and transplant rates; if they have been achieved in 2017; and if not, the progress made towards achieving the targets [53884/17]

14/12/2017WRCC03100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Progress on organ donation and transplanta- tion is monitored by my Department on a monthly basis. To the end of November 2017, there have been a total of 138 donors which resulted in 290 transplants. A breakdown of the organ donation and transplant figures for recent years follows:

Annual Transplant Statistics

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Donors 58 93 78 86 63 81 77 90 (Deceased) Living 23 27 32 38 40 33 50 48 Donors Trans- plants Kidney 121 192 163 185 152 153 172 177 Liver 38 61 50 55 44 61 58 58 Heart 3 6 10 11 18 16 15 15 Lung 4 8 14 32 31 36 35 35 Pancreas 8 8 1 11 6 0 0 5

232 14 December 2017

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Total 174 275 238 294 251 266 280 290 Trans- plants

14/12/2017WRCC03200Health Services Reports

14/12/2017WRCC03300434. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the planning of a national genetic and genomic medicine network service which will operate on a hub and spoke basis; the location of the hubs and spokes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53885/17]

14/12/2017WRCC03400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The development of a national and genomic medicine network will be informed by the HSE Report of the National Genetic and Genomic Medicine Network Strategy Group (2016). The report and its recommendations are under consideration by the HSE in conjunction with my Department with a view to determining priority next steps.

14/12/2017WRCC03500Hospitals Discharges

14/12/2017WRCC03600435. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of elective inpatient discharges in each public and voluntary hospital in 2017. [53886/17]

14/12/2017WRCC03700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRCC03800Patient Data

14/12/2017WRCC03900436. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons with hae- modialysis treated in acute hospitals in 2017. [53887/17]

14/12/2017WRCC04000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In relation to the query raised by the Deputy, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRDD00200Patient Data

14/12/2017WRDD00300437. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons with hae- modialysis treated in contracted centres in 2017. [53888/17]

14/12/2017WRDD00400438. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of home therapies dialysis treatments in 2017. [53889/17]

14/12/2017WRDD00500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 437 and 438 together.

In response to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRDD00600Hospitals Discharges

233 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRDD00700439. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of bed days lost through delayed discharges in 2017. [53890/17]

14/12/2017WRDD00800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRDD00900Stroke Care

14/12/2017WRDD01000440. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the percentage of persons with acute stroke who have spent all or some of their hospital stay in an acute or combined stroke unit in 2017. [53891/17]

14/12/2017WRDD01100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRDD01200Patient Data

14/12/2017WRDD01300441. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the percentage of persons with confirmed acute ischaemic stroke that received thrombolysis in 2017. [53892/17]

14/12/2017WRDD01400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRDD01500Hospital Services

14/12/2017WRDD01600442. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the acute hospitals which have a COPD outreach programme. [53893/17]

14/12/2017WRDD01700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In relation to the query raised by the Deputy, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRDD01800Patient Data

14/12/2017WRDD01900443. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons attending the rapid access lung clinic in designated cancer centres in 2017. [53894/17]

14/12/2017WRDD02000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): A total of 2,925 patients have attended the Rapid Access Lung Clinics as of end October 2017.

14/12/2017WRDD02100Patient Data

14/12/2017WRDD02200444. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons attending the rapid access prostate clinic in cancer centres in 2017; and the number of persons attending prostate rapid clinics that attended or were offered an appointment within 20 working days of receipt of referral in the cancer centres over the same time period. [53895/17]

14/12/2017WRDD02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): A total of 2,509 patients have attended the 234 14 December 2017 Rapid Access Prostate Clinic as of end October 2017. Of these, 1,441 were offered an appointment within 20 working days of receipt of referral in the cancer centre.

14/12/2017WRDD02400Health Services Staff Data

14/12/2017WRDD02500445. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the amount the Health Service Executive spent on agency staff each month in 2017; the equivalent figures for each month in 2016; the proportion of the HSE’s anticipated agency staff expenditure for 2017 that has been incurred to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53896/17]

14/12/2017WRDD02600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

14/12/2017WRDD02700Voluntary Sector Remuneration

14/12/2017WRDD02800446. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health when a full restoration of salaries to health workers in section 39 organisations will take place in view of a recent Labour Court ruling on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53907/17]

14/12/2017WRDD02900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Deputy is aware of the Government position in relation to the status of employees of section 39 organisations, having raised the issue in previous Parliamentary Questions. I can advise that I am currently engaging on the issue with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.

14/12/2017WREE00200EU Directives

14/12/2017WREE00300447. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health his plans to improve access to the HSE cross-border directive under which patients accepted onto the scheme who cannot afford the cost of surgery up-front are ineligible for treatment (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53914/17]

14/12/2017WREE00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the conditions of EU membership, all Member States must implement EU Directives. Consequently under the EU Directive on Patients’ Rights in Cross Border Healthcare each Member State is required to implement the Directive’s provisions regarding access to healthcare in other Member States/EEA countries.

The Directive on Patients’ Rights in Cross Border Healthcare provides rules for the reimbursement of patients’ of the cost of receiving treatment abroad, where the patient would be entitled to such treatment in their home Member State (Member State of Affiliation) and supplements the rights that patients already have at EU level through the legislation on the coordination of social security schemes (Regulation 883/04).

The Directive seeks to ensure a clear and transparent framework for the provision of cross- border healthcare within the EU, for those occasions where the care patients seek is provided in another Member State rather than in their home country. S.I. 203 of 2014 provides the legal basis for the Health Service Executive to operate the EU Directive on Patients’ Rights in Cross Border Healthcare in Ireland.

In transposing the terms of EU Directive 2011/24/EU the Irish State, in line with other Member States of the EU, put in place a reimbursement scheme for the costs of cross-border

235 Questions - Written Answers healthcare. This decision reflects the situation that under the terms of the Directive it is the patient who makes the choice to receive their treatment outside of the State. The patient decides the Member State they wish to go to, and the particular institution, or individual, from whom they receive the treatment (which may be in the public or private sector). Given the choice the patient has of such a large and diverse range of providers across the EU\EEA, and their differ- ing payment systems, it is not possible to set up a direct payment scheme. There are no plans to amend this provision of the transposition.

14/12/2017WREE00500Disability Services Data

14/12/2017WREE00600448. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of new residential emergency places provided by disability services in 2017. [53948/17]

14/12/2017WREE00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy’s question relates to an service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WREE00800Disability Services Data

14/12/2017WREE00900449. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of new home support and in home respite for emergency cases provided by disability services in 2017. [53949/17]

14/12/2017WREE01000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WREE01100Community Care Provision

14/12/2017WREE01200450. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons transferred to community living to date in 2017 under time to move on from congregated settings [53950/17]

236 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WREE01300451. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of additional homes provided to date in 2017 under Time to Move on from Congregated Settings. [53951/17]

14/12/2017WREE01400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): I propose to take Questions Nos. 450 and 451 together.

The HSE’s report “Time to Move on from Congregated Settings – A Strategy for Community Inclusion” (2011) proposes a new model of support in the community by moving people from institutional settings to the community. The plan is being rolled out at a regional and local level and involves full consultation with stakeholders.

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to continue to move people with disabilities out of congregated settings, to enable them to live independently and to be included in the community. In May 2016, 2725 people lived in congregated settings and our objective is to reduce this figure by one-third by 2021 and ultimately, to eliminate all congregated settings. A congregated setting is defined as a residential setting where people live with ten or more people.

The HSE has established a subgroup, under ‘Transforming Lives’, the Programme to implement the recommendations of the Value for Money and Policy Review of Disability Services, which is developing an implementation plan for moving people from institutions. I welcome the fact that the needs of people moving from congregated settings will be fully taken into account during this process as the model of care for individuals will be based on a person centred plan.

At the end of December 2016, less than 2,600 people with a disability were living in congregated settings. The HSE’s 2017 National Service Plan has set a target of 223 to move from institutions in 2017. This will ensure that people are able to move out of congregated settings, and into their own homes in the community. I want to emphasise that the appropriate supports and resources are being put in place to ensure that people are supported as they move out of residential centres.

As the HSE is responsible for leading out on the recommendations on “Time to Move on from Congregated Settings - A Strategy for Community Inclusion”, I have arranged for the Deputy’s questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WREE01500Neuro-Rehabilitation Services Provision

14/12/2017WREE01600452. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the status of the finalisation and implementation of the framework for neuro-rehabilitation strategy. [53955/17]

14/12/2017WREE01700453. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the status of the establishment of an innovative pilot day service aimed at supporting persons with severe acquired brain injuries. [53956/17]

14/12/2017WREE01800454. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health if a collaborative care pathways model for persons with complex neuro-rehabilitation care and support accommodation needs in CHO 6, 7 and 9 and involving the National Rehabilitation Hospital, Peamount Hospital and the Royal Hospital, Donnybrook, has been established; and the number of service users who have benefitted. [53957/17]

237 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WREE01900455. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health if each CHO has identified one area in which neuro-rehabilitation care services, both statutory andnon- statutory, could work together to avoid hospital admission and provide a better outcome for the service user; and if so, the details of same for each CHO. [53958/17]

14/12/2017WREE02000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): I propose to take Questions Nos. 452 to 455, inclusive, together.

The Programme for a Partnership Government includes a commitment to publish “a plan for advancing Neuro-rehabilitation services in the community”. The Health Service Executive (HSE) Social Care Division and the HSE Clinical Programme and Strategy Division are working in tandem to progress the implementation of the National Policy & Strategy for the provision of Neuro-rehabilitation services.

The HSE has established a National Steering Group to develop an Implementation Frame- work for the National Neuro-rehabilitation Policy & Strategy. Following a consultation process in 2016, the HSE has reconstituted the National Steering Group, which is now comprised of representatives across the whole health system including Heads of Social Care and the National Clinical Programme for Rehabilitation Medicine, Acute Hospital services, Mental Health, Pri- mary Care and Health & Wellbeing, Health & Social Care Professionals and the Neurological Alliance of Ireland.

The focus of the HSE National Steering Group is to develop a framework which is imple- mentable across the country. The Steering Group considers that a Managed Clinical Reha- bilitation Network model represents best practice as a means of providing neuro-rehabilitation care and support/accommodation needs. A Working Group has been established to support the Demonstration project pilot site. The Working Group has drafted both Terms of Reference and an Implementation Framework.

The HSE’s 2017 National Service Plan also contains a priority action to ‘establish an innovative pilot day service aimed at supporting people with severe acquired brain injuries’. Work is in progress to complete the requirements of the Service Arrangement with An Saol, to source a service location and recruit necessary staff.

With regard to the related service matters raised by the Deputy, I have arranged for the Deputy’s questions to be referred out to the Health Service Executive, for a direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WREE02100Respite Care Services Data

14/12/2017WREE02200456. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of day-only respite sessions accessed by persons with a disability to date in 2017. [53959/17]

14/12/2017WREE02300457. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of overnights with or without day respite accessed by persons with a disability to date in 2017. [53960/17]

14/12/2017WREE02400458. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons with a disability (details supplied) in receipt of respite services to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53961/17]

14/12/2017WREE02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 to 458, inclusive, together.

238 14 December 2017 The Government is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

I am very much aware of the importance of access to planned respite, which ensures that people with disabilities receive opportunities to socialise and separately, facilitates families to receive a break from caring. Respite services may vary, according to the assessed needs of the individuals and their carer. The model of respite is changing and although some still require overnight respite, others prefer and benefit from day respite. The number of respite nights has been reducing as persons with disabilities are seeking alternative models, such as day respite or extended day.

In 2017, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has planned that 161,262 overnight respite sessions will be accessed and the number of day respite sessions planned is 42,552.

In addition, the HSE will provide 128 new emergency residential placements and new home support and in-home respite for 75 additional people who require emergency supports.

In the HSE’s Social Care Operational Plan for 2017, 5,720 people with a Disability are expected to avail of centre based respite services. Based on existing levels of service and in addition to the centre-based respite service, it is planned that between 2,000 and 2,500 persons will avail of respite services such as holiday respite or occasional respite with a host family.

The HSE continues to work with agencies to explore various ways of responding to this need in line with the budget available

As the level of data requested by the Deputy is not currently available, I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for the inclusion of this data in the reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WREE02600Disability Services Data

14/12/2017WREE02700459. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of requests for assessments under the Disability Act 2005 received to date in 2017 in each LHO area; the number assessed within the statutory timeframe; and the number overdue. [53962/17]

14/12/2017WREE02800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

14/12/2017WREE02900Disability Services Data 239 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WREE03000460. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of children’s disability network teams now established; and the areas in which one has not been established, in tabular form. [53963/17]

14/12/2017WREE03100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

14/12/2017WRFF00200Disability Services Data

14/12/2017WRFF00300461. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons with a disability in receipt of rehabilitation training. [53964/17]

14/12/2017WRFF00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRFF00500Disability Services Data

14/12/2017WRFF00600462. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons with a disability in receipt of other day services (details supplied), not including rehabilitation training or work and work like activities. [53965/17]

14/12/2017WRFF00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRFF00800Primary Care Centres

240 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRFF00900463. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Health his plans for a new primary care centre in Dunfanaghy, County Donegal; his plans to carry out repairs to the existing centre in the intervening period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53966/17]

14/12/2017WRFF01000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As the HSE has responsibility for the provision, along with the maintenance and operation of Primary Care Centres and other Primary Care facilities, the Executive has been asked to reply directly to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRFF01100Generic Drugs Substitution

14/12/2017WRFF01200464. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health the options that are available to persons to appeal a generic prescription when they are instructed that they have no choice but to take a generic medication via that prescription even when they have clarified there are contraindications to taking the generic medication and that they are happy to pay additional costs (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54019/17]

14/12/2017WRFF01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRFF01400Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRFF01500465. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of CAMHS referrals seen by mental health services in 2017. [54020/17]

14/12/2017WRFF01600466. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of admissions to CAMHS acute inpatient units in 2017. [54021/17]

14/12/2017WRFF01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 465 and 466 together.

As these are a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRFF01800Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRFF01900467. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of adult referrals seen by mental health services in 2017. [54022/17]

14/12/2017WRFF02000468. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of old-age psychiatry referrals seen by mental health services in 2017. [54023/17]

14/12/2017WRFF02100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 467 and 468 together.

As these are a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRFF02200Mental Health Services Data

241 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRFF02300469. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of external placements provided by mental health services in 2017. [54024/17]

14/12/2017WRFF02400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRFF02500Primary Care Services Provision

14/12/2017WRFF02600470. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of adults seen by counselling services in primary care services in 2017. [54025/17]

14/12/2017WRFF02700471. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of adults seen by the National Counselling Service in 2017. [54026/17]

14/12/2017WRFF02800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 470 and 471 together.

As these are a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRFF02900Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRFF03000472. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of referrals seen by community forensic teams in 2017. [54027/17]

14/12/2017WRFF03100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a serviced matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG00150Prisoner Health

14/12/2017WRGG00200473. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of patient mental health reviews by prison in-reach services in 2017. [54028/17]

14/12/2017WRGG00300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG00350Mental Health Services Staff

14/12/2017WRGG00400474. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the allocation of the posts from the 2015 €35 million funding for mental health; the number of posts this allocation supports; the number that have been filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54029/17]

14/12/2017WRGG00500475. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the allocation of posts from the 2016 allocation of €35 million for mental health; the number of posts this allocation supports; the number that have been filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

242 14 December 2017 [54030/17]

14/12/2017WRGG00600476. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the allocation of posts from the 2017 allocation of €15 million for mental health; the number of posts this allocation supports; the number that have been filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54031/17]

14/12/2017WRGG00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 474 to 476, inclusive, together.

As these are a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG00750Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRGG00800477. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of persons waiting for a child and adolescent mental health service appointment in each LHO area; and the number waiting zero to three months, three to six months, six to nine months, nine to 12 months and more than 12 months respectively, in tabular form. [54032/17]

14/12/2017WRGG00900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG00950Mental Health Services Funding

14/12/2017WRGG01000478. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the allocation of the €15 million in new funding for mental health in 2017; the additional or new services being provided in 2017; the funding provided to each; the funding provided by CHO; and the additional posts being provided in each, in tabular form. [54033/17]

14/12/2017WRGG01100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG01150Mental Health Services Staff

14/12/2017WRGG01200479. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of new whole-time equivalent positions the €15 million in new funding for mental health in 2017 will provide; and the number of positions in each, by category (details supplied), in tabular form. [54034/17]

14/12/2017WRGG01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG01350Disability Services Data

14/12/2017WRGG01400480. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of additional posts recruited and appointed in 2017 for the development of the DeafHear national service. [54035/17]

243 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRGG01500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Deputy may wish to contact DeafHear directly in relation to the query raised in his question as the Min- ister has no remit regarding such matters. However, I have arranged for the Deputy’s question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for a direct reply to the Deputy regarding HSE funding provided to DeafHear.

14/12/2017WRGG01550Services for People with Disabilities

14/12/2017WRGG01600481. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the completion of the model of care for ADHD. [54036/17]

14/12/2017WRGG01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

14/12/2017WRGG01750Mental Health Services

14/12/2017WRGG01800482. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the completion of the model of care for dual diagnosis. [54037/17]

14/12/2017WRGG01900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The HSE’s Mental Health Division recognised the need for a Clinical Programme for Dual Diagnosis to respond to people with substance misuse, both alcohol and/or drugs, together with mental illness. The HSE’s Primary Care Division has already appointed a National Clinical Lead for the Addiction Services to improve its response to drug and alcohol abuse at primary care level and this Clini- cal Lead will work with the Mental Health Clinical Lead to develop a cohesive programme for those with a dual diagnosis.

The aims of this Programme are to develop a standardised evidence-based approach to the identification, assessment and treatment of comorbid mental illness and substance misuse. An integral part of the Dual Diagnosis Programme will be to devise a model of care that will outline how all adolescents and adults suspected of having a moderate to severe mental illness coexist- ing with significant substance misuse have access to a timely mental health services nationally. This is to be delivered on a CHO basis. The aim will be for the service to be provided in an integrated manner across the HSE’s Primary Care Division and the Mental Health Service and will ensure that there are close working relationships with the relevant specialities in the Acute Hospital Groups which will deal with any medical comorbidities that may occur, particularly in those with alcohol misuse.

A National Working Group, made up of key stakeholders with clinical, service user and service provider expertise, has been appointed. The Group had its first meeting in mid October 2017 and has initiated a work plan to develop a Model of Care based on a Programmatic approach to service improvement and development. 244 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRGG01950Mental Health Services Provision

14/12/2017WRGG02000483. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the embedding of the existing ten Jigsaw sites to full capacity and the development of new sites in counties Cork, Dublin and Limerick. [54038/17]

14/12/2017WRGG02100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG02150Counselling Services Provision

14/12/2017WRGG02200484. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the cross- divisional governance arrangements in place for the development of counselling services for those under 18 years of age in primary care. [54039/17]

14/12/2017WRGG02300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a serviced matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRGG02350Hospital Facilities

14/12/2017WRGG02400485. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the capacity expansion that has taken place in high observation units in Galway, Limerick and Drogheda in 2017. [54040/17]

14/12/2017WRGG02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a serviced matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH00150Hospital Facilities

14/12/2017WRHH00200486. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the progress that has been made on the provision of high observation units in counties Donegal and Kerry. [54041/17]

14/12/2017WRHH00300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a serviced matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH00350Neuro-Rehabilitation Policy

14/12/2017WRHH00400487. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if a model of care for a specialist rehab unit has been agreed; if a cohort of population for a specialist rehab unit has been identified; and if so, the details of both. [54042/17]

14/12/2017WRHH00500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Pro- gramme for a Partnership Government includes a commitment to publish “a plan for advancing Neuro-rehabilitation services in the community”. The Health Service Executive (HSE) Social Care Division and the HSE Clinical Programme and Strategy Division are working in tandem 245 Questions - Written Answers to progress the implementation of the National Policy & Strategy for the provision of Neuro- rehabilitation services.

With regard to the related service matters raised by the Deputy, I have arranged for the Deputy’s question to be referred out to the Health Service Executive, for a direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRHH00550Mental Health Services Data

14/12/2017WRHH00600488. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of new Central Mental Hospital beds for those admitted under section 21(2) of the Mental Health Act 2001 that have opened in 2017. [54043/17]

14/12/2017WRHH00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH00750Mental Health Services Staff

14/12/2017WRHH00800489. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the number of new staff appointed in 2017 to support the National Forensic Service. [54044/17]

14/12/2017WRHH00900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

14/12/2017WRHH00950Mental Health Services Staff

14/12/2017WRHH01000490. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the recruitment and establishment of a CAMHS community based forensic mental health team. [54045/17]

246 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRHH01100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH01150Mental Health Services Provision

14/12/2017WRHH01200491. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the way in which the provision of mental health services for persons experiencing homelessness has been expanded in 2017. [54046/17]

14/12/2017WRHH01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH01350Mental Health Services

14/12/2017WRHH01400492. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if an agreed ARI contract with each CHO on delivery of programme of education and capacity building to support development of recovery oriented services is now in place. [54047/17]

14/12/2017WRHH01500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH01550Mental Health Services

14/12/2017WRHH01600493. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the status of the review of the care pathway for MHID patients within the central mental hospital. [54048/17]

14/12/2017WRHH01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH01750Mental Health Services

14/12/2017WRHH01800494. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health the initiatives being taken to address the shortage of clinical space from which community based mental health services can be delivered and to refurbish existing approved centres. [54049/17]

14/12/2017WRHH01900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH01950Home Help Service Provision

14/12/2017WRHH02000495. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if home help hours for a person (details supplied) will be increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

247 Questions - Written Answers [54059/17]

14/12/2017WRHH02100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRHH02150Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRHH02200496. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health when parts 2 and 3 of the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 will be commenced; the transition arrangements which were put in place in 2015; the expected timeframe set out then; if the registry is set up; if not, when it will be; if clinics ceased using anonymous egg and sperm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54091/17]

14/12/2017WRHH02300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Draft regulations to facilitate the commencement of Parts 2 and 3 of the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 are being prepared. My Department is also working to resolve a small number of technical issues in order to ensure that the processes associated with Parts 2 and 3 of the Act can be commenced as soon as possible. Section 26 of the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 allows a transition period for the use of gametes and embryos acquired on an anonymous basis.

14/12/2017WRHH02350Hospital Services

14/12/2017WRHH02400497. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54106/17]

14/12/2017WRHH02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Question No. 498 answered with Question No. 427.

14/12/2017WRJJ00106Home Care Packages Data

14/12/2017WRJJ00112499. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on the waiting list for home care packages in each LHO area in tabular form; and the number waiting zero to three months, three to six months, six to 12 months and 12 months plus respectively. [54108/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00125Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRJJ00150Hospitals Data

14/12/2017WRJJ00200500. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of transitional care beds being provided to all acute hospitals to support older persons moving to long stay care or requiring convalescence. [54109/17]

248 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRJJ00250508. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons being supported through transitional care in alternative care settings. [54117/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00275509. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of persons in acute hospitals approved for transitional care to move to alternative care settings. [54118/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 500, 508 and 509 together.

As these are service matters I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRJJ00350National Carers’ Strategy Status

14/12/2017WRJJ00400501. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the multi- divisional group to progress the implementation of the national carers’ strategy. [54110/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRJJ00550Care Services Provision

14/12/2017WRJJ00600502. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the carers’ need assessment tool tested for implementation in 2017 through the SAT project. [54111/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00650506. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the development of a carers’ needs assessment; and if it will be progressed through the SAT project in 2017. [54115/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): I propose to take Questions Nos. 502 and 506 together.

As these are service matters I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRJJ00750Respite Care Services

14/12/2017WRJJ00800503. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the work of the HSE multi-divisional review group to review respite services to determine the requirements for respite care and identify the gaps in service provision; and the gaps identified for each CHO, in tabular format. [54112/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ00900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

249 Questions - Written Answers The Programme for Partnership Government states that the Government wishes to provide more accessible respite care to facilitate full support for people with a disability.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRJJ00950Home Care Packages

14/12/2017WRJJ01000504. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the HSE multi-divisional group review of the progress of the recommendations of the home solutions report on Telecare services; and the action taken as a result of the review. [54113/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ01100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Helen McEntee): As these are service matters I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRJJ01150Public Health Policy

14/12/2017WRJJ01200505. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the HSE policy and guidelines for the early identification of carers. [54114/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Question No. 506 answered with Question No. 502.

14/12/2017WRJJ01550HSE Data

14/12/2017WRJJ01600507. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the CHOs that have established residents’ councils, family forums, service user panels or equivalent in social care, in tabular form. [54116/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Govern- ment is committed to providing services and supports for people with disabilities which will empower them to live independent lives, provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose, and enhance their ability to tailor the supports required to meet their needs and plan their lives. This commitment is outlined in the Programme for Partnership Government, which is guided by two principles: equality of opportunity and improving the quality of life for people with disabilities.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy.

Questions Nos. 508 and 509 answered with Question No. 500.

14/12/2017WRJJ01950Hospitals Policy

14/12/2017WRJJ02100510. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the policy changes under-

250 14 December 2017 taken by St Columcille’s Hospital with regard to the number of inquiries to private and voluntary nursing homes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54123/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ02200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRJJ02250Hospital Waiting Lists Data

14/12/2017WRJJ02300511. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the details for both Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin and Temple Street Children’s University Hospital of the number of spinal fusion patients currently waiting less than four months, four to eight months and more than eight months for treatment, in tabular form; and if the same information will be provided for other spinal patients. [54124/17]

14/12/2017WRJJ02400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

14/12/2017WRKK00200EU Investigations

14/12/2017WRKK00300512. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the results of the state of health in the EU report; his views on its criticism of the two-tier model of care and the high hospitalisation rates for conditions that should normally be treated in primary care settings; his plans to address these issues through the full implementation of Sláintecare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54182/17]

14/12/2017WRKK00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The State of Health in the EU report was published at the end of November by the European Commission. The publishing of this particular report is timely as my Department are currently considering the recommendations of the Sláintecare report so as to provide a response and draft implementation plan to me by the end of the year.

I welcome the details provided in Ireland’s Country Health Profile which acknowledges that the health status of Irish people has improved and more rapidly than in many other EU countries. It also notes the progress we have made in reductions in smoking and alcohol consumption – leading causes of chronic disease in Ireland. It also lists details of our increasing life expectancy but notes that as our older population increases, prevalence of chronic disease among this age cohort will increase.

The State of Health in the EU report also highlights the fact that a significant proportion of the population have voluntary private health insurance. It further notes that this can give private patients access to diagnostics and hospital treatments in public hospitals faster that public patients. As the Deputy is aware, in line with Sláintecare recommendations, I have established an Independent Review Group to undertake an impact assessment of the removal of private practice in public hospitals.

Sláintecare also set out an ambitious vision for the future of healthcare in Ireland, including a shift to Primary and Community-based care. The State of Health in the EU report echoes this vision by stating that with strengthened Primary and Community-based services, unnecessary hospitalisations could be avoided. The report goes on to note that the absence of universal cover for Primary Care is a barrier to access for services. The re-orientation of our health services and the expansion of access to community-based services will be an important component

251 Questions - Written Answers of the response to Sláintecare.

14/12/2017WRKK00500Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRKK00600513. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54198/17]

14/12/2017WRKK00700514. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the use his Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54214/17]

14/12/2017WRKK00800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 513 and 514 together.

I had occasion to use the Government Jet twice this year in January to Paris for a Ministe- rial level Health Committee Meeting and in June to Luxembourg for a meeting of the European Employment, Social Policy, Health and Community Affairs Council (EPSCO). The Depart- ment of the Taoiseach has the lead responsibility for the code of practice for the use of the Government jet, ensuring transparent and cost effective travel with the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces having a contributory role in its implementation. Details on the use of the Government Jet are published on the Department of Defence website at the Ministerial Air Transport Service page. Data are available from 2008.

14/12/2017WRKK00900Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRKK01000515. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Health the photography costs for his department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54230/17]

14/12/2017WRKK01100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): No photography costs are met from my Min- isterial Allowance. Details as requested are presented for 2011 - 2016. I will forward details for departmental photography expenditure for 2017 as soon as they are collated.

Year Event Photographer Cost ex vat € 2016 National Patient Safety Conor McCabe Photog- 1,968 Conference raphy Ltd 2016 Launch of the Healthy Marc O’Sullivan Pho- 707 Cities andCounties Net- tography work of Ireland 2016 Launch of the Healthy Marc O’Sullivan Pho- 553 Ireland Survey Wave tography 2016 Launch of the National JCP Photography 492 Drugs Strategy Public Consultation

252 14 December 2017 Year Event Photographer Cost ex vat € 2016 Launch of the Obesity Conor McCabe Photog- 430 Policy and Action Plan raphy Ltd 2016 Conference - Reaffirm- Stephen Wall Morris 301 ing the Values of Nursing and Midwifery 2016 Launch of the National Conor McCabe Photog- 553 PhysicalActivity Plan raphy Ltd 2015 Department of Health Robbie Reynolds Pho- 600 Consultation Event 2015 tography 2015 Photography for the Mark Stedman 450 launch of National Sexual Health Strategy 2015 Photography for launch Marc O’Sullivan 450 of the Healthy Ireland Survey 2015 2015 Photography for new Conor O’Mearain 150 Healthy Ireland website and social media 2015 Purchase of stock pho- Shutterstock 39 tography for Healthy Ireland website 2014 All Ireland Chief Nursing Conor McCabe Photog- 369 Officers’ Conference raphy Ltd 2014 HSE Aviva Stakeholder Conor McCabe Photog- 308 Consultation raphy Ltd 2014 All Ireland Chief Nursing Robbie Reynolds Pho- 308 Officers’ Conference tography Ltd 2014 Portrait of Council Mem- Conor McCabe Photog- 1046 bers - Healthy Ireland raphy Ltd 2014 Launch of the National Conor McCabe Photog- 431 Rare Disease Plan for raphy Ltd Ireland 2014 A Ministerial Meeting of Robbie Reynolds Pho- 246 the British Irish Council tography Ltd – Misuse of Substances Sectoral Group, Dublin Castle 2013 Symposium for Senior Robbie Reynolds Pho- 738 Pharmaceutical Policy- tography Ltd makers on 29-30 August 2013 2013 Joint Meeting of Chief Fennells 105 Medical Officers and Chief Nursing Officers 2013 National Drugs Coordi- Fennells 117 nators Meeting April 2013

253 Questions - Written Answers Year Event Photographer Cost ex vat € 2013 NPHDB /CHGB Joint 1Image Photography 314 Induction Day Photo Ses- sion 1/10/13 2013 Photography Costs for Donagh Glavin Photog- 234 John Higgins Chair of the raphy Strategic Board on Hospi- tal Groups 2013 Tobacco Free Ireland Conor McCabe Photog- 554 Launch raphy Ltd 2013 First National Clinical Derek Speirs 437 Effectiveness Symposium 2013 Launch of the Healthy Photocall Ireland 559 Ireland Report 2013 Launch of Healthy Ire- Robbie Reynolds Pho- 615 land Report tography Ltd 2012 2nd National Patient Derek Speirs 317 Safety Conference 2012 Consultation Day on Conor McCabe Photog- 430 Rare Disease Plan for raphy Ltd Ireland 2012 Closing Conference Tommy Clancy Pho- 584 to mark the end of the tography European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations 2012 in Ireland (in which the Department of Health was co-ordinating) 2011 Seminar: Parental Sub- Conor Healy 800 stance Misuse – Address- ing its Impact on Children A review of the Literature It is the policy in the Department only to engage external services, including photography, where it is felt to be appropriate and cost-effective, e.g., to promote awareness of new schemes or to invite public consultations on policy matters. In doing so, the Department takes account of Government decisions and policy.

14/12/2017WRKK01200Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRKK01300516. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Health the use of external public relations firms employed by his department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54246/17]

14/12/2017WRKK01400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Between March 2011 and December 2014, the Department did not use any external PR services.

254 14 December 2017 Details of external PR firms engaged between 2015 and 2017 are presented in the following table:

Year Name of Company Cost Details 2017 Hume Brophy €114,491 Public Relations & Communications Support for Euro- pean Medicines Agency (EMA) Bid 2016 RPS Consulting €11,826 Public consultation Engineers Ltd process to inform the development of a new National Drugs Strategy. This work has a public relations dimension, as it involves a range of different public activities and events to publicise the consultation process in order to optimise public participation 2015 DHR Communica- €86,100 Development of tions strategy to support communication of the Healthy Ireland Framework and toolkit for Healthy Ireland Council It is the policy in my Department only to engage the services of external consultants where it is felt to be appropriate and cost-effective, taking account of Government decisions and policy on the matter.

14/12/2017WRKK01500Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRKK01600517. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Health the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form [54262/17]

14/12/2017WRKK01700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Department does not collect data in a manner which would allow the Deputy’s question to be answered in full. Published reports for the years in question are available on the Department’s website at http://health.gov. ie/publications-research/publications/. Presented in the table are details from the Department’s A7 expenditure for consultant reports commissioned by the Department from March 2011 to 28 September 2017, the latest date for which data are readily available. It is the policy in my Department only to engage the services of external consultants where it is felt to be appropriate and cost-effective, taking account of Government decisions and policy including procurement protocols on the matter.

255 Questions - Written Answers YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2017 Work research centre Expert evidence & review €33,210 of mental health services (in relation to review of A vision for Change) 2017 Mazars Assist in the development €24,564 of fee models under the EU Tobacco Products Directive 2017 Hume Brophy Public Relations & Com- €114,491 munications Support for European Medicines Agency (EMA) bid 2017 P A Consulting Capacity Review across €114,279 the health sector 2017 Alpha Healthcare Task Force on Person- €14,750 alised Budgets 2016 Research Matters Support for Newboarn €12,116 Screening Card Archive Forum 2016 Milliman Ltd. Actuarial, accounting, €55,081 insurance and economic advice services as and when required. 2016 Metis Consulting Technical advisor on €4,182 pharmacy issues and tasks in respect of key priorities 2016 Trutz Haase, OCC Development & Imple- €29,202 Ltd & Uni of Shef- mentation of an evidence field based National Oral Health Policy 2016 DCU Complete pediatric guide- €19,178 line 2016 Skills for Health Research and stakeholder €24,750 engagement to inform the further development of Nursing and Midwifery Key Performance Indica- tors 2016 Mr Trutz Haase Development of a per- €73,720 formance measurement framework for Drug and Alcohol Task Forces 2016 Aurion Support a framework for €9,606 the implementation of clinical practice guidance

256 14 December 2017 YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2016 Centre for Effective Support a framework for €16,185 Services the implementation of clinical practice guidance 2016 The Performance Development of a Learn- €29,520 Partnership ing Development Strat- egy/Plan for the Depart- ment and an approach and guidelines for mentoring and coaching. 2016 Alpha Healthcare Undertaking a series of €39,426 internal and external consultation engagements 2016 DCU Support a framework for €22,684 supporting patients and their advocates in the governance and development of National Clinical Guidelines and National Clinical Audit 2016 UCC Support for implementa- €25,670 tion of National Clinical Guidelines through the NCEC 2016 UCC Support for implementa- €24,699 tion of National Clinical Guidelines through the NCEC 2016 RPS Group Services to assist with €128,509 drawing up a report on the consultation process on a new National Drugs Strategy 2016 IPA Establishment of a new €21,525 integrated business and risk management system 2016 Crowe Horwath Report on current and fu- €31,570 ture role of Public Health Specialists in Ireland 2016 Alpha Healthcare Independent Evaluation €17,220 of Physician Associate Pi- lot – Beaumont Hospital – pathfinder for the Na- tional Integrated Strategic Framework for Health Workforce Planning

257 Questions - Written Answers YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2016 KPMG Consultation exercise on €14,145 performance dialogue with and performance management of the HSE 2016 Alcohol Action Joint participation in Eu- €1,575 Ireland ropean study Participation into alcohol marketing during Euro 2016 2016 Alpha Healthcare Support - Implementation €4,381 Planning Workshop 2016 Treacy Consultancy Management Board de- €44,040 velopment programme 2016 Prospectus Ltd. Develop and establish a €59,163 network in relation to the Healthy Ireland Frame- work 2015 UCC,UCD, NUIG Publication of a policy on €104,355 future community nursing and midwifery, public health nursing and related support grades within the context of health reform 2015 DCU Patient Engagement in the €34,743 governance and development of national clinical effectiveness processes 2015 Prospectus Consultation and report to €104,242 inform the development of a policy on Trauma System for Ireland 2015 Amarach Research Alcohol Labelling Re- €150,368 search 2015 NUIG Suite of Literature Re- €159,645 views to support National Clinical Guidelines 2015 UCC Clinical Guideline 2 €22,743 (NEWS Update, NCG No. 1) 2015 ICF Consulting An assessment of the eco- €49,799 Services/DKM Eco- nomic costs of smoking in nomic Consultants Ireland 2015 Prospectus Code of Conduct for €86,138 Health and Social Service Providers

258 14 December 2017 YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2015 UCD Provision of an Evidence €11,119 Review to inform Future Specialist and Advanced Nursing Practice 2015 UCD Clinical Handover Guide- €86,292 line 2015 DCU Management of the Acute €9,973 Adult Asthma Patient – provision of research 2015 DCU Paediatric Early Warning €23,978 Score – Pre-implementation research 2015 INDECON Econom- Analysis of potential €143,485 ic Consultants measures to encourage the provision of Primary Care facilities 2015 DKM Economic Analysis of potential €144,586 Consultants measures to encourage the provision of Nursing Homes and Community Nursing Unit facilities 2014 DCU School of Report to support the €7,418 Nursing Taskforce on Staffing and Skill mix for nursing 2014 DCU School of Literature Review and €19,845 Nursing Nursing Workforce Evaluation to Support the Taskforce on Staffing and Skill Mix 2014 Crowe Horwath Thematic Analysis of €39,176 Submissions in response to a Public Consultation on the White Paper for Universal Health Insur- ance 2014 NUI Galway Systematic literature €23,935 review Maternity Early Warning Score 2014 DCU Systematic literature €20,095 review Paediatric Early Warning Score 2014 UCC Systematic literature €20,712 review Clinical Practice Guidance

259 Questions - Written Answers YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2014 Sinéad Shannon Review of the internation- €5,000 al evidence and literature on selection criteria for the Outcomes Framework 2013 Prospectus Strategy Review of Staffing Re- €72,940 Consultants sources and Organisation- al Structure of the Depart- ment of Health 2013 Deloitte and Touche Review of the Nursing €61,800 Consultants Ltd Homes Support Scheme 2013 Matheson Ormsby Legal Research and €123,000 Prentice advisory services on the design and implementation of an insurance based health system providing universal coverage in Ireland 2013 Prof Oonagh Walsh Report on symphysioto- €49,500 my in Ireland, 1944-1984 2013 Ernst & Young Reports relating to the €79,212 development of the Pro- gramme Management Of- fice (cost includes a range of consultancy services) 2013 Dr Sinead Hanafin & Review of the Traveller €6,150 Associates Health Advisory Commit- tee 2013 Prospectus Overview of the devel- €15,156 opment of the Health & Wellbeing Programme 2013 Research Matters Provision of Research €74,490 Management Services 2013 Institute of Public Analysis re Consultation €5,000 Health (Tobacco Products Direc- tive) 2013 Professor Hammond Research on Standardised €5,000 Packaging- Irish Context 2013 CJP Consultants Preparation of report on €31,488 the efficacy of minimum pricing and other public policies for alcohol. 2013 Advertising Stan- Annual Report of the €21,115 dards Authority of Alcohol Marketing Com- Ireland munications Monitoring Body (AMCMB)

260 14 December 2017 YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2012 McGee Pharma In- Labelling of Medicinal €13,644 ternational Products in both Irish and English 2012 Goodbody Stockbro- Further Analysis of Op- €62,349 kers and Matheson tions in relation to the Ormsby Prentice restructuring of the Irish Solicitors Private Health Insurance Market 2012 Department of Review of the Department €18,020 Public Expenditure of Health’s Parliamentary and Reform with the and Legislative Processes assistance of PwC 2012 Department of Pub- A survey of experience None lic Expenditure and and qualifications in the Reform Department of Health 2012 Michael Collins As- Supplementary Report €12,423 sociates and Addendum on Cost Comparison for the Dol- phin Review Group 2012 John Martin Further assessment of €6,000 planning issues in relation to proposed sites for the Dolphin Review Group 2012 Simon Clear Further assessment of €9,475 planning issues in relation to proposed sites for the Dolphin Review Group 2012 The Department of The Efficiency Review of €71,270 Epidemiology and the BreastCheck Screen- Public Health, UCC, ing Programme in conjunction with the Centre for Health Policy and Manage- ment, TCD. 2012 Mr Gerard Mullaly Reforming Chronic Care: €5,227 Financing and Delivering Integrated Chronic Care 2012 Mr Gerard Mullaly The Integrated Continu- €7,558 ing Care System (ICCS): Reforming Elderly Care in Ireland 2012 Matheson Ormsby Options Appraisal of €6,150 Prentice multi-payer universal health insurance models: Preliminary advice

261 Questions - Written Answers YearAwarded Consultants Report Cost to September 2017 2012 Department of Report on the baseline €14,000 Health / SIRA Con- measurement of the sulting administrative burden from the Department of Health (as part of a cross Departmental project co- ordinated by Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation) 2011 Goodbody Stockbro- Commissioned to under- €300,080 kers and Matteson take are review of the Ormsby Prentice Irish Private Health Insur- Solicitors ance Market in Relation to the options which may exist for re-balancing

14/12/2017WRKK01800Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRKK01900518. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54278/17]

14/12/2017WRKK02000519. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54294/17]

14/12/2017WRKK02100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 518 and 519 together.

The full information requested by the Deputy is not immediately available, I will collate this information and provide a comprehensive response to the Deputy in due course.

Details in relation to newspaper advertising expenditure on public consultations held during 2017 are presented as follows:

Date Campaign Company Cost (ex VAT) October 2017 Public Consulta- Mediavest €5,013.56 tion Task Force on Personalised Bud- gets for People with Disabilities.

262 14 December 2017 Date Campaign Company Cost (ex VAT) September 2017 Public Consultation Mediavest €5,013.57 Human Tissue Leg- islation, Newspaper Ads July 2017 Public Consultation Mediavest €5,517.59 Home care, Newspa- per Ads The Department also engaged the services of Hume Brophy during 2017 for Public Rela- tions and Communications support regarding Ireland’s bid for the European Medicines Agency. The cost was €114,491. It is the policy in my Department only to engage the services of external consultants where it is felt to be appropriate and cost-effective, taking account of Government decisions and policy on the matter.

I have referred the question to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy in relation to its expenditure on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation. Details for other bodies under the aegis of the Department are operational matters for the bodies concerned and the Deputy should contact the relevant Director/CEO/Registrar directly.

14/12/2017WRKK02200Medical Aids and Appliances Provision

14/12/2017WRKK02300520. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will permit the funding of dental implants in the cases of reconstructive surgery post-oncological treatment; if his attention has been drawn to the fact implant procedures are of a critical nature in allowing a person to relearn the way to eat solid food; the options available to persons if treatment is withdrawn due to a funding restriction (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54302/17]

14/12/2017WRKK02400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRKK02500Basic Payment Scheme Payments

14/12/2017WRKK02600521. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he will take to ensure that a person (detail supplied) has their BPS payment issued without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53508/17]

14/12/2017WRKK02700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The persons named submitted applications under the 2017 Basic Payment Scheme and Young Farmers Scheme to my Department. These applications have been finalised and payment is due to issue shortly.

14/12/2017WRKK02800TAMS Applications

14/12/2017WRKK02900522. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of an application by a person (details supplied); if the persons are entitled to 40% or 60% grant aid in this case; when a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the

263 Questions - Written Answers matter. [53552/17]

14/12/2017WRKK03000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Herd Number associated with the application referred to is in the sole name of the more senior applicant. A TAMS II application under the Animal Welfare Safety and Nutrient Storage Scheme Measure was submitted by the person named on 28 September 2017.

Grant aid is available under this measure at the rate of 40% up to the applicable maximum investment ceiling of €80,000 per holding.

14/12/2017WRKK03100Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRKK03200523. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53560/17]

14/12/2017WRKK03300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the following table:

Title of Act Act /Part of Act Awaiting Commence- Reason for delay in commencement ment Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1997 Section 13 Section has not commenced as the timeline originally envisaged is not appropriate having regard to the com- plexities associated with aquaculture licensing. The issue remains under ongoing review in the context of the Report of the Aquaculture Licensing review group. Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 Part 5 Levies Part 12 Animal Marts These are enabling provisions allowing for future replacement of existing regimes on Animal levies and Animal marts. The existing regimes are still operating so it has not been necessary to commence these two parts of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013. Eleven parts were commenced in 2014 and one in 2015. Sea Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdic- Section 98 Applicants for sea fishing boat tion Act 2006 licences must satisfy strict criteria in order to be granted a licence. It is considered that these criteria as currently apply are sufficiently robust and accordingly, it is not considered necessary to add to these criteria. Horse Racing Ireland Act 2016 Section 12 New structures currently being put in place to facilitate the commencement

Question No. 524 withdrawn.

14/12/2017WRLL00200GLAS Payments

14/12/2017WRLL00300525. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a GLAS 1 payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry following the successful review of their application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53600/17] 264 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRLL00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): An action on the application of the person named was deemed to be ineligible originally. This issue has now been resolved. The application will be run through the selection process in the coming days. Once the application clears this stage it will move to payment processing.

14/12/2017WRLL00500GLAS Payments

14/12/2017WRLL00600526. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a GLAS 1 payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry following the successful review of their application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53601/17]

14/12/2017WRLL00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Following the review mentioned an action on the application of the person named is due to be reinstated. This case has been listed for reinstatement and this process will be completed shortly. The application will then be run through the selection process. Once the application clears this stage it will move to payment processing.

14/12/2017WRLL00800TAMS Payments

14/12/2017WRLL00900527. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if an over-claim being applied to a TAMS grant will be reviewed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry in view of the lack of options on the online application portal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53604/17]

14/12/2017WRLL01000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The applicant in question applied for investments under the Animal Welfare, Safety and Nutrient Storage Measure under TAMS II.

The claim is currently being processed in my Department and the penalty position, if any, has yet to be determined.

14/12/2017WRLL01100Departmental Staff Data

14/12/2017WRLL01200528. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of full-time and part-time staff working in the dedicated international markets focus section; and the yearly cost of including staffing costs. [53628/17]

14/12/2017WRLL01300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): One of my key priorities is to further increase the market opportunity for Irish food and drinks internationally. This principle of market development is already a key component of Food Wise 2025, but is particularly important now in the context of Brexit.

The work of staff across the Department impacts on market access and development. This includes veterinary services, laboratory staff, inspectorate staff, Brexit/International Trade Di- vision, Meat and Dairy Policy Division and others, in completing market access questionnaires, facilitating incoming inspection visits, participating in diplomatic meetings, agreeing export health certificates and so on. All of this inter-connected work facilitates the accessing of new markets and the maintenance of existing markets.

In relation to meat, this effort is co-ordinated by a dedicated meat market access unit in the

265 Questions - Written Answers Meat and Dairy Policy Division. This unit’s staffing complement has increased in line with my action plan on market access. It currently comprises a team of seven people led by an Assistant Principal Officer. The annual cost for staffing this unit, including salary, PRSI, pension and accommodation, is estimated at approximately €500,000.

The meat market access unit works on expanding market access for beef, sheepmeat, pig- meat, poultry and cooked meats across a range of markets and is also working to simplify certification procedures in a number of markets to which Ireland already has access. The work of the unit supports a meat industry with exports of over €3 billion.

My Department has made significant progress in recent years in increasing market access opportunities for Irish meat exports.

14/12/2017WRLL01400Brexit Staff

14/12/2017WRLL01500529. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of full-time and part-time staff assigned to the dedicated Brexit unit within his Department by staff grade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53629/17]

14/12/2017WRLL01600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Following the UK referendum in June 2016, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine established a dedicated Brexit Co-ordination Unit within its EU & International Trade Division. This Unit now forms part of a new Brexit and International Trade Division. It comprises nine staff working full-time on the co-ordination of Brexit issues, including a full-time Head of Division, who in turn reports to an Assistant Secretary General deeply engaged in Brexit issues. Its work is complementary to that of the Market Access Unit and that of other divisions in the department dealing with trade related issues.

The Unit co-ordinates the ongoing analysis, consultation and engagement activities being undertaken by a large number of administrative, technical and veterinary staff, across the De- partment. It also feeds into the whole-of-Government co-ordination being undertaken by the Department of the Taoiseach.

In overall terms, my Department is continuing to monitor the future workforce needs of the Department, and will be keeping resource allocations under close review as the negotiations proceed.

14/12/2017WRLL01700Brexit Issues

14/12/2017WRLL01800530. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of times, including dates and locations, that the Brexit consultative committee has met since the UK Brexit referendum in June 2016, in tabular form. [53630/17]

14/12/2017WRLL01900Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): One of the steps I undertook in the immediate aftermath of the UK’s decision to leave the EU was to establish a Consultative Committee of Stakeholders in order to ensure a full exchange of information on the potential implications of a UK exit from the EU for the agri-food sector in Ireland. The working arrangements of the Committee are to meet as required rather than according to a pre- determined schedule. The Consultative Committee have met on the following occasions:

266 14 December 2017 1st Formal Meeting 7 July 2016 DAFM Headquaters 2nd Formal Meeting 20 October 2016 DAFM Headquaters Sectoral Dialogue for the cattle 15 December 2016 City North Hotel & Confer- and sheep, dairy, and pigs and ence Centre, Gormanstown, poultry sectors Co. Meath Sectoral Dialogue for the fisher- 1 February 2017 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dublin ies sector Airport Sectoral Dialogue for the forest- 8 February 2017 City North Hotel & Confer- ry, horticulture, prepared con- ence Centre, Gormanstown, sumer foods and cereals/animal Co. Meath feed sectors 3rd Formal Meeting 11 April 2017 DAFM Headquaters Sectoral Dialogue for the al- 3 May 2017 DAFM Headquaters cohol, beverage and distilling sector Sectoral Dialogue for the equine 9 June 2017 Maldron Hotel, Portlaoise and greyhound sector 4th Formal Meeting 19 July 2017 DAFM Headquaters Consultative meeting for the 30 November 2017 DAFM Headquaters PCF Alcohol and Beverage Sectors All of these ongoing consultations are helping to further inform my approach and that of my Department to the challenges presented by Brexit for the agri-food and fisheries sectors, and the Brexit Consultative Committee of Stakeholders will continue to play a vital role in this regard.

14/12/2017WRLL02000Brexit Issues

14/12/2017WRLL02100531. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of companies that have completed the Brexit barometer to date since it was launched by companies larger than SME size, SMEs, medium-sized companies and micro-sized companies, in tabular form. [53631/17]

14/12/2017WRLL02200Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Bord Bia published its industry findings last June on the basis of information provided from 139 companies that completed the Brexit Barometer. The results can be found using the following link:

www.bordbia.ie/industry/events/SpeakerPresentations/2017/BrexitBarometerFindingsAc- tion/BordBia-Brexit-Barometer-Industry-Findings.pdf.

14/12/2017WRLL02300Bord Bia Staff

14/12/2017WRLL02400532. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of staff recruited on an annual basis in Bord Bia since the Brexit referendum in June 2016, between new staff hires and replacement staff, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53632/17]

14/12/2017WRLL02500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Bord Bia’s remit for the marketing and promotion of agri-food and drink has been challenged by the deci-

267 Questions - Written Answers sion of the UK electorate to withdraw from the European Union. The response to this challenge has been an organisation-wide response rather than a response by one or a number of specific individuals.

Recruitment of staff is an operational matter for the State Body concerned and the Deputy is referred to the agreed Oireachtas contact address for the State Body concerned – Bord Bia [email protected].

14/12/2017WRLL02600Brexit Staff

14/12/2017WRLL02700533. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of staff recruited on an annual basis since the Brexit referendum in June 2016, between new staff hires and replacement staff, in State agencies and bodies under his aegis (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53633/17]

14/12/2017WRLL02800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment will be providing support to the State Agencies under its aegis in the context of the challenges arising due to Brexit.

All information relating to the hiring of additional staff are operational matters for the State Bodies concerned and I have asked my officials to forward the Deputy’s question to the State Bodies in question for direct reply.

14/12/2017WRLL02900Diplomatic Representation

14/12/2017WRLL03000534. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the Irish Embassies worldwide which have agricultural attachés stationed; and the number of such attachés stationed in each such specific embassy by city and country. [53634/17]

14/12/2017WRLL03100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): There are agricultural attachés based in eight Irish embassies worldwide. There is one attaché stationed in each of the following locations:

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Beijing, China

Geneva, Switzerland

London, UK

Paris, France

Rome, Italy

Washington, United States

There are four attachés based in Brussels, Belgium.

14/12/2017WRLL03200Basic Payment Scheme Payments

14/12/2017WRLL03300535. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- 268 14 December 2017 rine the status of the 2016 programme for Government commitment to propose a lowering of the cap on basic payments; and the timeframe for implementation of this action. [53635/17]

14/12/2017WRLL03400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The 2016 Pro- gramme for Government undertook to propose a lowering of the cap on basic payments from €150,000 to €100,000.

Since the 16th October 2015, the maximum amount payable to any one applicant under the Basic Payment Scheme (excluding the Greening Payment), is capped at €150,000 per annum and applies from the first year of the scheme in 2015. Ireland actively supported the concept of this maximum level during the CAP negotiations. Under the new Direct Payments Regula- tions, it was open to Member States to reduce payments over €150,000 by between 5% and 100%. Ireland chose the highest possible reduction, thus effectively capping BPS payments at €150,000. A further lowering of the limit would require a legislative change of the basic regulation 1307/2013 (Direct Payments Regulation) in Council.

As no mid-term review of the CAP has yet taken place, the opportunity has not arisen to propose the lowering of the maximum amount payable. However, I am committed to addressing this matter in the context of the future reform of the CAP.

14/12/2017WRLL03500Knowledge Transfer Programme

14/12/2017WRLL03600536. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of approved persons that have applied to the knowledge transfer group, KTG, scheme in the beef, sheep, dairy, tillage, equine and poultry sectors, in tabular form; the targeted number of groups formed; the number of groups finalised to date; the number of payments that have issued to date; the 2017 budget allocation for the KTG scheme; the funds allocated to the scheme under the 2014-2020 rural development programme, RDP; the amount of moneys expended to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53636/17]

14/12/2017WRLL03700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Knowledge Transfer is one of a suite of measures included under the Rural Development Programme 2014- 2020 and involves the formation of knowledge transfer groups across the beef, dairy, equine, sheep, tillage and poultry sectors.

Funding of €100m under the Rural Development Programme, 2014-2020 has been allocated for this measure, which involves Department approved agricultural consultants acting as Knowledge Transfer Facilitators administering groups operating over a three year period.

A breakdown of the number of applications received for the Knowledge Transfer Pro- gramme is provided below:

Total Beef Dairy Sheep Tillage Poultry Equine Number of 20,252 10,072 4,258 4,310 885 248 479 Participant Applica- tions Received Number of 1,190 581 268 251 55 13 22 Group Ap- plications Received It should be noted that a portion of those applications received did not meet eligibility re-

269 Questions - Written Answers quirements and therefore did not progress to take part in the Programme. Additionally a number of group facilitators and participants subsequently decided that they no longer wished to proceed in the Programme with a further circa 1% of participants withdrawing from the scheme during the course of the Programme to date.

Approximately 19,100 farmers in circa 1,190 Knowledge Transfer Groups have actively participated in the Programme attending a range of Knowledge Transfer Group Meetings, Knowl- edge Transfer approved National Events and completing Farm Improvement Plans and Animal Health Measures.

A budget of €23m has been allocated for 2017 in respect of the Knowledge Transfer Pro- gramme. Payments commenced at the end of October for participants who successfully completed all elements of Year One of the Programme. To date, in excess of €10 million has been paid to over 13,500 participants across the six sectors. Payments are continuing as more facilitators return their documentation.

14/12/2017WRLL03800TAMS Data

14/12/2017WRLL03900537. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of applications received under the targeted agricultural modernisation scheme 2 by county, in tabular form; the number of approved applications by county; the number of payment claims logged by county; the number of payment claims that have been approved for payment by county; the funds allocated to the scheme under the 2014-20 RDP; the amount of moneys expended to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53637/17]

14/12/2017WRLL04000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The TAMS II Scheme has been very successful to date in terms of uptake with the number of approvals issued exceeding 11,600. All of these approvals represent committed expenditure under the TAMS II measure of the Rural Development Programme 2014 - 2020.

Of the applications approved just over 3,000 payment claims have been submitted to date and payments to the value of €31.6m have issued. The budget for TAMS II over the lifetime of the RDP is €395m.

Payment claims submitted continue to be paid on an ongoing basis. All participants who have completed approved works have been urged to submit their payment claims as soon as they are in a position to do so to facilitate early payment.

The details of approvals and payments as requested by the Deputy are given below.

County Applications Approved Claims Lodged Approved For Received Payment Carlow 233 179 42 30 Cavan 556 411 100 62 Clare 440 365 109 101 Cork 2338 1786 516 348 Donegal 795 578 76 57 Dublin 89 63 15 6 Galway 1062 809 220 159 Kerry 1060 794 208 159 Kildare 293 194 55 40

270 14 December 2017 County Applications Approved Claims Lodged Approved For Received Payment Kilkenny 795 603 192 148 Laois 440 346 97 76 Leitrim 214 158 44 30 Limerick 765 581 165 135 Longford 214 162 30 26 Louth 197 142 30 14 Mayo 581 430 100 81 Meath 518 401 87 59 Monaghan 503 370 92 65 Offaly 348 269 67 42 Roscommon 554 437 93 58 Sligo 210 155 37 25 Tipperary 1270 983 332 300 Waterford 498 390 109 85 Westmeath 345 278 68 47 Wexford 801 600 144 101 Wicklow 274 190 34 26 Grand Total 15393 11674 3062 2280

14/12/2017WRMM00200Beef Industry

14/12/2017WRMM00300538. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine when the beef forum is due to meet next; and the number of meetings to date since the forum was established in tabular form. [53638/17]

14/12/2017WRMM00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Beef Roundtable was established in April 2014 in order to bring all the relevant stakeholders together and to facilitate open discussion between industry and farming organisations on the strategic path for the beef sector over the coming years. The forum has been held on ten occasions, the last being held on the 12th July 2017. I will be holding the next meeting of the Roundtable in early 2018.

The information requested by the Deputy is listed in tabular form below.

Meeting Number Date First 17/04/2014 Second 03/06/2014 Third 29/10/2014 Fourth 12/11/2014 Fifth 04/02/2015 Sixth 21/07/2015 Seventh 16/12/2015 Eight 21/07/2016 Ninth 17/11/2016 Tenth 12/07/2017

271 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRMM00500Dairy Sector

14/12/2017WRMM00600539. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine when the dairy forum is due to meet next; and the number of meetings to date since the forum was established, in tabular form. [53639/17]

14/12/2017WRMM00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): In 2015 my predecessor as Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine established a Dairy Forum comprising relevant stakeholders to act as a vehicle for constructive engagement on issues of strategic importance to the dairy sector. This Forum has met on a number of occasions and has provided a useful platform for discussion on issues such as market developments, sustainability, animal health, milk quality, price volatility, and CAP policy.

My Department and I are committed to working with all players in the sector to address issues as they arise, to ensure that we have a sustainable dairy sector going forward. In this regard I will call a meeting of the Dairy Forum to discuss the relevant issues as they arise.

There have been 5 meetings of the Dairy Forum (see table below).

Dairy Forum 25 September 2017 07 December 2016 21 June 2016 09 March 2016 29 September 2015

14/12/2017WRMM00800Legislative Reviews

14/12/2017WRMM00900540. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of the review of the Agriculture Appeals Act 2001; and if there is farmer representation on the review committee. [53640/17]

14/12/2017WRMM01000568. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of progress towards the programme for Government commitment to review the Agriculture Appeals Act 2001. [53979/17]

14/12/2017WRMM01100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 540 and 568 together.

The Programme for Partnership Government provided for a review of the Agriculture Ap- peals Act, 2001, to ensure the independence and efficiency of the office in dealing with appeals from farmers. In fulfilment of this undertaking, I established a Review Committee comprising three members, Niamh O’Donoghue, former Secretary General, Department of Social Protec- tion (Chair), Padraig Gibbons, a farmer and former chairman of Aurivo Co-operative Society Limited and former President of the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS), and Paud Evans, retired Principal Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, to carry out the review and furnish its Report to me by the end of this year.

In line with the Terms of Reference and following consultation with relevant stakeholders, the Review Committee will compile and furnish its Report, to include recommendations as regards the legislation governing and the future operation of the Agriculture Appeals Office, to me by the end of December 2017. Following receipt of the Report, I will consider its findings and any recommendations that the Review Committee may make. 272 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRMM01200Hen Harriers Threat Response Plan

14/12/2017WRMM01300541. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the criteria for entry into category 1, 2 and 3 under the newly opened hen harrier scheme; when the first payments will issue for the scheme; the average estimated payment to participants; the budget allocated under the RDP 2014-20 to this scheme; and the amount of funds expended to date under the relevant RDP measure. [53642/17]

14/12/2017WRMM01400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): At the outset, I should stress that this is a locally led programme, which is not directly administered by my Department. The design and management of the programme are primarily matters for the local project team.

Information regarding the selection criteria and payments available to farmers can be found in the Terms and Conditions for the Programme. The Terms & Conditions can be obtained from the Hen Harrier project team and are also available on their website www.henharrierproject.ie.

As I have stated above, the management of the programme is undertaken by a local project team. Decisions on issues with regard to payment dates and payable amounts are matters for the local project team. However, funding for the Programme is provided through Ireland’s Rural Development Plan and I have allocated a budget of €25 million for the Hen Harrier Programme.

14/12/2017WRMM01500GLAS Data

14/12/2017WRMM01600542. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of persons enrolled in GLAS 1, 2 and 3 that have submitted their nutrient management plans to date; and the number per county that have not submitted their nutrient management plans to date. [53643/17]

14/12/2017WRMM01700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The information requested by the Deputy is set out in tabular form below.

GLAS1 GLAS2 GLAS3 COUNTY Active NMP No NMP Active NMP No NMP Active NMP No NMP Carlow 281 256 25 129 107 22 126 5 121 Cavan 910 875 35 433 414 19 543 25 518 Clare 1,623 1,511 112 689 635 54 815 153 662 Cork 2,169 2,037 132 1,005 905 100 947 15 932 Donegal 1,944 1,887 57 1,005 940 65 1,411 141 1,270 Dublin 62 57 5 17 17 0 20 1 19 Galway 3,079 2,992 87 1,309 1,236 73 1,587 25 1,562 Kerry 1,771 1,587 184 868 764 104 765 12 753 Kildare 250 234 16 79 73 6 115 6 109 Kilkenny 430 401 29 209 187 22 192 2 190 Laois 372 364 8 193 184 9 236 15 221 Leitrim 1,020 988 32 419 405 14 531 21 510 Limerick 1,054 997 57 302 274 28 407 16 391 Longford 511 498 13 345 320 25 330 4 326 Louth 149 140 9 79 67 12 96 3 93 Mayo 2,555 2,500 55 1,328 1,260 68 1,664 24 1,640 Meath 424 377 47 201 172 29 255 3 252 Monaghan 577 557 20 146 140 6 342 24 318 273 Questions - Written Answers

GLAS1 GLAS2 GLAS3 COUNTY Active NMP No NMP Active NMP No NMP Active NMP No NMP Offaly 485 447 38 279 256 23 298 2 296 Roscom- 1,527 1,481 46 553 528 25 719 18 701 mon Sligo 944 909 35 363 334 29 493 11 482 Tipperary 1,140 1,044 96 510 446 64 509 14 495 Waterford 367 323 44 133 107 26 122 6 116 Westmeath 645 619 26 264 235 29 282 8 274 Wexford 777 732 45 265 239 26 303 8 295 Wicklow 332 299 33 153 140 13 203 6 197 Totals 25,398 24,112 1,286 11,276 10,385 891 13,311 568 12,743

14/12/2017WRMM01800Rural Development Programme

14/12/2017WRMM01900543. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine his plans to make an amendment to the 2014-20 rural development programme to enable grant aid to the installation of anaerobic digesters on farms (details supplied). [53644/17]

14/12/2017WRMM02000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Ireland’s Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 will deliver funding of some €4 billion to the agricultural sector and rural areas generally over the lifetime of the Programme. The Programme’s content and design was formulated in light of previous experience and performance and reflects the outcome of extensive stakeholder consultation and does not include support for anaerobic di- gestors on farms under the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme II (TAMS II).

TAMS II has been very successful to date in terms of uptake with the number of approvals that have issued exceeding 11,600. All of these approvals represent committed expenditure and until such time as these approvals are acted upon or expire the budget for TAMS must include provision for the potential expenditure involved.

Of the applications approved just over 3,000 payment claims have been received to date. Payment claims submitted continue to be paid on an ongoing basis. All participants who have completed approved works have been urged to submit their payment claims immediately to facilitate early payment. Until the approvals issued to applicants are acted upon and payment claims are submitted or expire without a payment claim being submitted the budgetary position is that additional investment items cannot be accommodated within the RDP budget.

Under the Rural Development Programme 2000-2006 a Pilot Waste Processing Facilities Scheme provided funding of €4 million in order to grant-aid the installation of anaerobic diges- tors on ten Irish farms (i.e. 10 x €400,000). Two projects were completed and a further two have been given extensions to undertake the work by mid 2018. Both projects will be nationally funded if completed.

On the broader issue of supporting renewable energy, the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment leads in terms of Ireland’s renewable energy policy and oversees the Renewable Electricity Feed-in Tariff (REFIT) schemes. These Schemes are the principal means of supporting renewable electricity generators for renewable energy exported to the grid. The schemes operate by guaranteeing a minimum price for renewable energy generation over a 15 year period. The technologies supported include onshore wind energy, hydroelec- tricity, landfill gas, waste-to-energy and biomass technologies, including anaerobic digestion. Electricity and heat produced from anaerobic digestion (AD) are supported under the REFIT 3 scheme. 274 14 December 2017 The Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment is currently developing a Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) which is being designed to assist Ire- land in meeting its renewable energy contributions out to 2030. The economic analysis to underpin this scheme included an appraisal of a broad range of renewable electricity generating technologies including onshore and offshore wind, solar PV, ocean energy technologies and bioenergy technologies including Anaerobic Digestion. This appraisal will ensure that the new scheme delivers value for money for energy users whilst also delivering on the energy pillars of sustainability and security of supply.

A public consultation on the RESS closed last month and whilst all submissions are currently being considered in informing the final design of the RESS, no final decisions have been made at this point as regards the technologies that will be supported.

14/12/2017WRMM02100Fodder Crisis

14/12/2017WRMM02200544. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine his plans to introduce a voucher scheme for farmers who are running very low on fodder stocks; and his further plans to draw up a fodder aid fund. [53645/17]

14/12/2017WRMM02300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The weather conditions over much of last Autumn were challenging for farmers and created difficulties for farmers particularly in the Western regions and on heavier land types.

Grass growth rates through the autumn were ahead of last year. However, the poor weather resulted in cattle being housed earlier than normal in places, particularly on the heavier soils; it also affected late cut silage making operations.

I have asked Teagasc to work locally in areas with fodder difficulties to support good budgeting of fodder supplies on farms for the winter.

Following my request, the European Commission agreed to my request for an advance payment of the 2017 Basic Payment Scheme. This has been prompted principally by the inclement weather conditions. This meant an increase from 50% to 70% in the rate for the BPS to those applicants whose applications were confirmed fully clear and 85% payment of our main Agri- environment scheme, GLAS. Issuing of these payments commenced after the 15th October.

Over €1.2 billion in payments has issued to farmers over recent weeks, something that has significantly improved cash flow on these farms.

In order to ensure a co-ordinated approach to addressing the issue of fodder availability on farms in the West and North-West, I recently convened a fodder group which is made up of all the main stakeholders including feed merchants and co-ops, banking, farm bodies etc. and the first meeting took place on Monday 11th December, chaired by Teagasc. The group’s objective is to actively monitor the situation and to ensure co-ordinated expertise and guidance is available to all farmers impacted.

Arising from the meeting, Teagasc will begin a survey of fodder availability in the east and south of the country to ascertain what supplies are still available for purchase.

Exploring these avenues means my Department will be fully informed of the situation on the ground and the best possible advice will be provided to farmers re their options which may include sourcing alternative feed, reducing non breeding stock numbers and ensuring they carry out a fodder budget.

275 Questions - Written Answers I will continue to actively monitor the situation in the impacted areas over the coming period.

14/12/2017WRMM02400Agriculture Scheme Expenditure

14/12/2017WRMM02500545. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the individual allocation to AEOS, GLAS and organics under the €233.8 million announced for agri-environmental schemes in budget 2018. [53646/17]

14/12/2017WRMM02600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The below table provides the individual allocations as requested. The €233.8m also includes locally led schemes approved under the RDP.

- 2018 € AEOS 6,000,000 GLAS 203,000,000 OFS 10,500,000

14/12/2017WRMM02700Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRMM02800546. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the Exchequer funding given to the world food programme over the period 2010 to 2017; and the amount allocated in 2018. [53647/17]

14/12/2017WRMM02900Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment leads on Ireland’s engagement with the UN’s World Food Programme. The WFP is the largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide and is funded exclusively from voluntary contributions. It is responsible for the delivery of food assistance to the poorest and most vulnerable people in the world and feeds 80 million of the most malnourished people in 80 countries.

In February 2016, Ireland signed its second Strategic Partnership Agreement with the World Food Programme. This agreement contained a commitment to double WFP core funding for 2016, 2017 and 2018 to €20m per year. The increased support for WFP was decided on by the Irish Government as part of its response to the current refugee crisis, including that arising from the conflict in Syria.

From 2010 to 2017 the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine provided funding of €110.8m to the World Food Programme, as detailed in the table below.

Year Amount 2010 €9.96m 2011 €9.96m 2012 €9.96m 2013 €10.96m 2014 €9.96m 2015 €20m 2016 €40m 2017 €14m

276 14 December 2017 The 2017 allocation includes an advance payment of the 2018 commitment under Ireland’s Strategic Partnership Agreement with WFP. This earlier disbursement is at the request of the World Food Programme’s Executive Director, who wrote to inform me that this funding will significantly contribute to enhance WFP’s capability to plan its interventions and better address the several growing humanitarian crises around the world.

The funding, while generally targeted at WFP’s emergency and protracted relief operations, is provided on an un-earmarked basis which gives WFP the flexibility to plan and target this funding in the most strategic, efficient and effective manner.

Other Government Departments, such as the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, also provide funding to the World Food Programme.

14/12/2017WRMM03000Forestry Sector

14/12/2017WRMM03100547. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of discussions with the European Commission to seek approval to revise the 20% rule under the forestry programme 2014-20. [53648/17]

14/12/2017WRMM03200Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment has been in ongoing contact with the European Commission to discuss proposals for removing the 20% rule over the last 12 months. An exchange of documents and further correspondence took place culminating in a further meeting on the 23rd November 2017. The Commission is reviewing the documents provided and a further meeting is due to take place later this month to discuss the matter further.

14/12/2017WRMM03300Young Farmers Scheme

14/12/2017WRMM03400548. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of persons that applied to the 2017 national reserve without having completed a green cert by the May 2017 deadline. [53649/17]

14/12/2017WRMM03500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Seventy applications were received under the 2017 National Reserve where the applicant had not completed an educational qualification at FETAC Level 6 or equivalent by the May 2017 deadline.

14/12/2017WRMM03600Young Farmers Scheme

14/12/2017WRMM03700549. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of applications to the 2017 national reserve and young farmers scheme, by county, in tabular form. [53650/17]

14/12/2017WRMM03800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The number of applications under the 2017 National Reserve and the 2017 Young Farmers Scheme, by county, is set out in the following table:

County 2017 National Reserve ap- 2017 Young Farmers plications Scheme applications Carlow 20 147

277 Questions - Written Answers County 2017 National Reserve ap- 2017 Young Farmers plications Scheme applications Cavan 71 400 Clare 55 398 Cork 149 1116 Donegal 50 421 Dublin 6 42 Galway 140 847 Kerry 92 533 Kildare 22 146 Kilkenny 42 333 Laois 43 300 Leitrim 41 259 Limerick 56 382 Longford 19 154 Louth 13 99 Mayo 87 756 Meath 43 270 Monaghan 18 245 Offaly 43 270 Roscommon 53 371 Sligo 55 236 Tipperary 88 543 Waterford 33 259 Westmeath 31 203 Wexford 42 388 Wicklow 28 174

14/12/2017WRMM03900Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme Data

14/12/2017WRMM04000550. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine when the 2018 ANC scheme will open for applications; the estimated payment rates in view of the fact additional Exchequer funding has been allocated to the scheme; the latest date at the planned ANC review and timetable agreed at EU level; and the status of the progress of mapping for review. [53651/17]

14/12/2017WRMM04100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) Scheme is scheduled to open for applications in early February 2018.

Budget 2018 included an additional allocation of €25 million for the scheme in 2018. This is in keeping with provisions of the Programme for a Partnership Government. There are a number of options in relation to how any additional funding could be allocated under the ANC scheme. These options range from allocating the funds as a flat increase across the current payable rates, to various forms of targeting higher payment rates for particular categories of farmers. The options in this regard are currently being examined. Any changes to the Scheme on foot of this will require agreement with the EU Commission via a formal amendment of Ire- land’s Rural Development Programme, 2014-2020.

278 14 December 2017 Under the Rural Development Regulation the ANC scheme is subject to redesignation using a set list of bio-physical criteria such as soil moisture, soil drainage, soil texture and slope. My Department has commenced work on the redesignation project, and relevant technical experts are currently working on analysing the data in relation to the new criteria. Department officials are in ongoing contact with the EU Commission in relation to technical issues arising. This analysis will identify areas deemed to be facing natural constraints, which will in parallel be subjected to a refinement process.

It was originally intended that this new approach would be introduced from January 2018 but a proposal for a one year extension of this deadline is currently under consideration at EU level as part of a range of regulatory changes under what is termed the “Omnibus Proposal”.

14/12/2017WRNN00200Livestock Issues

14/12/2017WRNN00300551. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the average number of livestock units per hectare on land by category (details supplied). [53654/17]

14/12/2017WRNN00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The information sought by the Deputy is currently being compiled and will be forwarded as soon as it is available.

14/12/2017WRNN00500Basic Payment Scheme Data

14/12/2017WRNN00600552. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the average number of livestock units, excluding tillage farmers, that receive a basic payment scheme, BPS, payment per hectare, by category (details supplied). [53655/17]

14/12/2017WRNN00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment is in the process of compiling the requested data, and it will be forwarded directly to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

14/12/2017WRNN00800Basic Payment Scheme Data

14/12/2017WRNN00900553. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the average number of livestock units per hectare of all farmers that receive a basic payment scheme, BPS, payment, by category (details supplied). [53656/17]

14/12/2017WRNN01000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment is in the process of compiling the requested data. The information will be forwarded directly to the Deputy when it is available.

14/12/2017WRNN01100GLAS Data

14/12/2017WRNN01200554. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 223 and 224 of 26 October 2017, if the requested information has been compiled by county, in tabular form. [53657/17]

14/12/2017WRNN01300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): 2017 advance 279 Questions - Written Answers payments are currently being issued in relation to GLAS 1, 2 and 3. At present staff and IT resources are focussed on ensuring as many of these payments are processed as possible.

The information set out below has been compiled and is correct as of November 30th.

GLAS 1

County Cases with Com- Paid Advance 2016 Paid Balance 2016 Paid Advance 2017 monage Carlow 52 51 43 21 Cavan 23 23 23 5 Clare 81 78 57 13 Cork 314 309 293 120 Donegal 656 645 611 156 Dublin 12 11 10 5 Galway 644 617 576 80 Kerry 594 589 456 71 Kildare 5 5 5 2 Kilkenny 8 8 8 3 Laois 16 16 14 1 Leitrim 135 132 119 31 Limerick 16 16 10 3 Longford 9 9 7 3 Louth 36 36 33 18 Mayo 773 746 675 181 Offaly 1 1 0 0 Roscommon 28 28 26 7 Sligo 107 106 91 7 Tipperary 89 87 67 22 Waterford 63 61 54 17 Westmeath 1 1 1 1 Wexford 33 33 31 15 Wicklow 68 68 60 28 3,764 3,676 3,270 810

GLAS 2 County Cases with Com- Paid Advance Paid Balance 2016 Paid Advance monage 2016 2017 Carlow 25 25 19 9 Cavan 23 23 20 1 Clare 53 53 43 9 Cork 237 235 216 83 Donegal 478 474 405 101 Galway 374 359 311 44 Kerry 395 392 311 50 Kildare 14 14 2 0 Kilkenny 4 4 3 0 Laois 10 9 7 0 Leitrim 97 96 82 14 Limerick 4 4 1 0 Longford 9 9 6 1

280 14 December 2017

County Cases with Com- Paid Advance 2016 Paid Balance 2016 Paid Advance 2017 monage Louth 31 31 28 9 Mayo 596 571 493 145 Offaly 4 4 4 1 Roscommon 20 20 19 8 Sligo 85 85 69 6 Tipperary 55 51 40 13 Waterford 27 20 14 1 Westmeath 1 1 1 0 Wexford 6 6 5 2 Wicklow 67 66 55 19 2,615 2,552 516

GLAS 3 County Cases with Com- Paid Advance monage 2017 Carlow 27 13 Cavan 31 2 Clare 75 18 Cork 135 51 Donegal 613 128 Dublin 4 3 Galway 414 64 Kerry 262 50 Kildare 14 1 Kilkenny 1 0 Laois 19 3 Leitrim 108 14 Limerick 9 0 Longford 8 1 Louth 15 7 Mayo 691 226 Meath 1 1 Offaly 10 0 Roscommon 18 3 Sligo 93 8 Tipperary 26 7 Waterford 23 5 Westmeath 1 0 Wexford 16 10 Wicklow 68 26 2,614 615

14/12/2017WRNN01400Departmental Reports

14/12/2017WRNN01500555. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the name of all internal reports and research studies conducted or commissioned by his Department and the agencies under his aegis since June 2016 on Brexit regarding agrifood and 281 Questions - Written Answers fisheries, in tabular form; the publication date of all such studies; the reports and research studies that remain uncompleted; the date they are expected to be completed; and if each publication will be published. [53658/17]

14/12/2017WRNN01600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment has conducted a range of analysis and research activities in relation to Brexit. This work is ongoing, and is primarily concerned with the implications of Brexit for agri-food trade with the UK across different sectors.

For example, both internally and in consultation with the relevant stakeholders through the Brexit Stakeholder Consultative Committee and the All-Island Civic Dialogue process, my Department has established the extent of sectoral reliance on the UK market, the potential implications of Brexit for each sector and the possible responses to the challenges presented. It has also been analysing the potential practical impact on the day-to-day functioning of trade flows, as well as potential WTO tariffs that might be applied to Ireland’s agri-food exports to the UK in the event of a ‘hard’ Brexit.

The agencies reporting to my Department have also undertaken important research in relation to Brexit, with Teagasc publishing reports on, for example, the potential implications for the Irish agri-food sector in overall terms and on the implications for family farm incomes, and Bord Bia conducting important work through its Brexit Barometer.

In addition, my Department is in contact with the relevant agencies and with other Depart- ments to co-ordinate further research on the implications of Brexit for the agri-food industry.

14/12/2017WRNN01700Aquaculture Development

14/12/2017WRNN01800556. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will address concerns regarding the potential conflict of interest inherent in the fisheries division of his Department which is responsible for both the licensing of aquaculture in addition to the development and growth of the aquaculture and fisheries industries across the county; his plans to reform the current arrangement in order that a healthy distinction is made between the separate roles of regulation and policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53660/17]

14/12/2017WRNN01900Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment has five distinct Marine Divisions. These are the Sea Fisheries Administration Division, Sea Fisheries Policy and Management Division, Marine Programmes Division, Marine Engi- neering Division and the Aquaculture and Foreshore Management Division.

The Sea Fisheries Policy and Management Division of my Department is responsible for, among other things, the corporate governance oversight of the Marine Institute, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and the independent Aquaculture Licensing Appeals Board. The oversight role of the Department in this respect is to ensure that each of the marine agencies is and remains compliant with the revised code of practice for the Governance of state bodies (2016).

Aquaculture policy is within the remit of the Marine Programmes Division, a separate Divi- sion to the Division that is responsible for corporate governance.

Aquaculture licence applications are considered by the Aquaculture and Foreshore Man- agement Division of my Department in accordance with the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act, the 1933 Foreshore Act and applicable EU legislation. The legislation provides for a period of statutory and general public consultation in respect of every application. 282 14 December 2017 Decisions on applications are made following the fullest consideration of all environmental, technical, legislative and public interest aspects of each application. In addition, it is open to any member of the public to appeal the Minister’s decision to the Aquaculture Licences Ap- peals Board, an independent authority for the determination of appeals against decisions of the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine on aquaculture licence applications. A person ag- grieved by a decision of the Minister on an aquaculture licence application, or by the revocation or amendment of an aquaculture licence, may make an appeal within one month of publication (in the case of a decision) or notification (in the case of revocation/amendment). The secretariat of the board is located in Kilminchy Court Dublin Road Portlaoise Co. Laois. Email: info@ alab.ie.

I believe that the separation of functions sought by the Deputy is already clearly in existence.

14/12/2017WRNN02000Marine Institute

14/12/2017WRNN02100557. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has confidence in the Marine Institute after it issued a statement on 8 December 2017 in relation to the viral disease he identified in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 49 of 8 November 2017 (details supplied). [53694/17]

14/12/2017WRNN02200558. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will instruct the Marine Institute to issue a correction of equal prominence to its erroneous statement on 8 December 2017 claiming that only salmon contract cardiomyopathy and inform the public of the highly transmissible nature of the cardiomyopathy virus as made clear in peer reviewed published research. [53695/17]

14/12/2017WRNN02300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 557 and 558 together.

The Marine Institute advises my Department on scientific matters associated with aquaculture regulation. My Department has been advised by the Institute that the scientific publication referred to by the Deputy is not at variance with the Statement issued by the Institute on 8 De- cember concerning salmon losses at Connemara fish farms.

14/12/2017WRNN02400Marine Institute

14/12/2017WRNN02500559. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he plans to take to ensure that the Marine Institute is properly staffed to guarantee that information provided to the public is scientifically accurate. [53696/17]

14/12/2017WRNN02600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Following the lifting of the moratorium on recruitment by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform in 2015, the Marine Institute has delegated sanction in relation to recruitment within the parameters of its core pay vote. In 2017, my Department provided a total of €31.563m in exchequer funding to the institute which included €7.8m for current pay costs. The figure for 2018 is currently being finalised.

I am confident that the institute is properly resourced and doing an excellent job in providing scientifically accurate information to the public.

283 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRNN02700Animal Diseases

14/12/2017WRNN02800560. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the recent regulation (EU) 2016/429 on transmissible animal diseases (details supplied); and if he will reconsider his refusal to release information with regard to the outbreak of cardiomyopathy resulting in 200,000 mortalities of farmed salmon and numerous wild mackerel reported to Inland Fisheries Ireland’s Macroom office by a member of the public on the afternoon of 21 September 2017. [53697/17]

14/12/2017WRNN02900Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Marine Institute is the Competent Authority for the implementation of aquatic animal health legislation. The Institute has advised my Department that the Regulation referred to by the Deputy which shall apply in EU Member States from 21 April 2021 does not envisage the listing of Cardio- myopathy Syndrome.

14/12/2017WRNN03000Animal Diseases

14/12/2017WRNN03100561. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the virus cardiomyopathy has been found in the lice that infect farmed salmon. [53698/17]

14/12/2017WRNN03200562. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the cardiomyopathy virus revealed by him in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 49 of 8 November 2017 is not now nor will become transmissible to human beings. [53699/17]

14/12/2017WRNN03300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 561 and 562 together.

My Department has been advised by the Marine Institute that the virus referred to by the Deputy has been reported as occurring in sea lice in one Norwegian report. The report reference is as follows:

Hellebø, A., Stene, A., and Asphaug, V. (2014). Potensielle reservoarer for SAV og PMCV p_a marine akvakulturanlegg, (In Norwegian). Ålesund, Norway: Møreforskning og Høgskolen i _Alesund. 1–23.

The Marine Institute has also advised, in accordance with its Statement of 8 December, that this disease has no impact on human health.

14/12/2017WRNN03400Island Communities

14/12/2017WRNN03500563. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the recommendations of the 2014 report on promoting sustainable rural coastal and island communities by the Oireachtas joint sub-committee on fisheries that have been implemented; the recommendations of the report that remain to be implemented; the reason for the delay in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53727/17]

14/12/2017WRNN03600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Sub- Committee report to which the Deputy refers made a number of recommendations which concerned a range of Government policies including natural resources, marine safety and social protection. I intend to address progress on aspects relevant to my remit as Minister for Agricul- ture, Food and the Marine.

284 14 December 2017 A number of the recommendations have been superseded by initiatives which have taken place.

In relation to representation structures for the industry for instance, the National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF) and Regional Inshore Fisheries Forums (RIFFs) provide arenas for inshore fishermen to develop proposals on inshore fisheries management, including compliance and data gathering. The NIFF is representative of the fishing boats of less than 12m overall length in the fishing fleet. The focus on the NIFF work programme is on fisheries management in the coastal waters within 6 nautical miles. The NIFF is taking the lead in setting priorities for policy development including ongoing work in developing a dedicated strategy for the inshore sector.

To date, the twelve NIFF meetings have led to very constructive two-way conversations on issues of mutual concern, industry priorities, emerging policies & initiatives. NIFF members are now included on a number of fisheries consultative structures including the Quota Man- agement Advisory Committee, the Industry Science Fisheries Partnership, the SFPA Consulta- tive Committee, the EMFF Operational Programme Monitoring Committee and BIM/Bord Bia Market Advisory Group. This gives the inshore sector a role in making recommendations on range of fisheries policy matters including on allocation of Ireland’s quotas, on data collection and scientific research. Perhaps most important of these is that the NIFF now has a say on how funding is utilised including through the Inshore Fisheries Conservation Scheme.

The Sub-Committee’s report refers to managing the lobster and shrimp fisheries. Changes came into effect in 2014 regarding the management of these fisheries, following on from an extensive consultation process. In more recent times lobster in particular has been a feature of the agenda of the meetings which I have had with the NIFF and I look forward to a discussion with NIFF on the review of the effectiveness of the current conservation measures in 2018.

With regard to the mackerel quota, there has been a change to the way this is allocated. For 2017 and future years, the 87% to 13% share out of the quota between the Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) pelagic fleet and polyvalent segment of the fleet will remain unchanged. Where Ireland’s quota exceeds 90,000 tonnes, the quota shall be shared on a 80% to 20% basis between the pelagic and polyvalent fleet. A minimum of 2% of the mackerel quota, or 1,000 tonnes, whichever is the greater will be deducted annually for demersal swaps before any share out between segments is undertaken.

There is an open mackerel fishery for vessels under 18 metres in length. An amount of 2.5% of the overall polyvalent Mackerel Quota has been set aside for this fishery and a monthly catch limit is used. This catch limit is recommended each month by the Whitefish Quota Manage- ment Advisory Committee which consists of fishing industry representatives. For 2017, under 18m Boats may fish 5 tonnes per month. In the last number of years much of this quota has remained under-utilised.

The sub-committee made a recommendation with regard to “minor fishing infractions”. In November 2014, my Department published a public consultation document in the form of a Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) of a proposal for a Bill to amend the Sea Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 to provide for, inter alia, a system of fixed penalty notices (“on the spot” fines) for minor fisheries offences. This provided the possibility of creating a subset of minor offences which are legally suitable to be dealt with by way of fixed penalty notices.

In summary, the process suggested in the RIA involved giving a person who was alleged to have committed a minor offence an option to pay a fixed payment which would mean that a prosecution would not be taken in the Courts. If the payment was not received within 28 days, the prosecution would be initiated in the courts and on conviction it was expected that a higher 285 Questions - Written Answers fine would be applied.

A number of industry submissions received under the RIA on the implementation of fixed penalty notices raised concerns that these would be used in place of verbal or written warn- ings. Other comments raised concerns regarding potential inequalities in the application of the system between different Sea Fisheries Protection Authority Port Officers and Naval Service personnel. There were also comments regarding the constitutionality of applying sanctions in the absence of a Court decision and others seeking a fully administrative system. In light of the comments submitted in respect of the above proposal on a fixed penalty system, it was decided not to proceed with the introduction such a system.

With regard to fishing infrastructure, it is important to say that my Department owns, maintains and directly manages six Fishery Harbour Centres. The network of Harbours, located at Killybegs, Ros an Mhíl , An Daingean, Castletownbere, Dunmore East and Howth, are a valuable and vital resource to the Irish fishing fleet. The Fishery Harbour Centres provide state of the art facilities and infrastructure for the increasingly mobile and large scale Irish and EU fishing industries.

In 2017, I allocated a total of €3.8 million to the Local Authority Programme. This vital funding targeted 67 approved Local Authority projects with a wide geographical spread, 55 of which are harbour development requiring funding of €2.94 million and 12 relate to marine leisure requiring funding of €879,750. The infrastructure supported will be of great benefit to many rural coastal and island communities.

With regard to progress on aquaculture, in May 2017 I published the report of the Indepen- dent Review Group on aquaculture licensing which contained 30 key recommendations across a full range of activities. Additional staff have been assigned to the Aquaculture licensing division of the Department so as to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations.

My Department’s €240 million European Maritime and Fisheries Fund Operational Pro- gramme is the vehicle for financial supports to the seafood sector up to 2021. The Programme delivers a wide range of supports for aquaculture, fisheries and seafood processing through a suite of 15 schemes including specifically in relation to Fisheries Local Action Groups. Indi- vidual schemes are administered by BIM and I will ask BIM to update the Deputy on recommendations relevant to its remit.

In summary, there are a number of recommendations not relevant to the remit of my Depart- ment and I have endeavoured to give the Deputy an update on relevant matters, including policy developments, which have occurred since the report was published. I would like to assure the Deputy that this Government is fully commitment to the seafood sector and the coastal communities who are dependent on fisheries and aquaculture.

14/12/2017WRNN03700Fishing Vessel Licences

14/12/2017WRNN03800564. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on issuing heritage licences by his Department for rural costal and island communities as recommended in the report on promoting sustainable rural coastal and island communities by the Oireachtas joint sub-committee on fisheries; if legislative changes are needed to issue such licences; and if his Department carried out work on issuing such licences including costs that would be incurred. [53728/17]

14/12/2017WRNN03900Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003 transferred the functions of sea-fishing boat licensing to the Licensing 286 14 December 2017 Authority for Sea-fishing Boats, which operates on an independent basis subject to criteria set out in that Act and Ministerial Policy Directives. As a result as Minister I am precluded under Section 3(5) of the 2003 Act from exercising any power or control in relation to individual cases, or a group of cases, with which the Licensing Authority is or may be concerned. Licences issued by the Licensing Authority are issued to the owners of sea-fishing boats to licence the vessel concerned.

It is important to point out that the existing licensing legislation and procedures are available to and apply to islanders engaged in commercial sea-fishing. Island fishermen therefore already have access to a licensing regime which recognises their commercial sea-fishing activities. I would like to stress that the existing legislation in this area provides an independent licensing process for sea-fishing boats and contributes to managing Ireland’s fishing fleet within EU rules.

I understand that certain groups intended that heritage licences would extend to fishing for salmon. Legislation governing licences for commercial fishing for salmon comes under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment.

14/12/2017WROO00200Fish Quotas

14/12/2017WROO00300565. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the final 2018 Irish quotas agreed in tonnage for each fishing species at the EU fishing Min- isters meeting; the value in euro if available; the final 2017 quota agreed for each such species; and the difference between 2017 and 2018 quotas in percentage terms. [53976/17]

14/12/2017WROO00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The annual EU Fisheries Council took place on 11 and 12 December in Brussels. Following two very challenging days of intensive negotiations I am satisfied to have secured a total package of fish quotas worth €266 million for Irish fishermen for 2018.

This included a 15% increase in prawns, worth over €10.6m to the Irish fleet, which is the biggest single increase in over a decade. Ireland’s overall quota for prawns in 2018 amounts to 10,729 tonnes with a total value of €83m.

There were a number of difficult issues facing us their year but the final package is a balanced and sustainable one.

The Irish quotas agreed at this December’s EU Fisheries Council Meeting are as follows:

[Quotas]

14/12/2017WROO00500Statutory Instruments

14/12/2017WROO00600566. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of the new the new statutory instrument he is planning to publish regarding fishing points in the fishing industry. [53977/17]

14/12/2017WROO00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Supreme Court judgments were delivered on 12 December 2017 in relation to the 2014 SI implementing a points system for licence holders. My Department is currently examining the implications of the judgments on an urgent basis in conjunction with the Attorney General’s Office to inform 287 Questions - Written Answers next steps in this matter.

14/12/2017WROO00800Ministerial Meetings

14/12/2017WROO00900567. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of bilateral meetings he has had with his other European ministerial colleagues regarding fishing quotas and safeguarding Irish fishing interests ahead of the December 2017 Council of Fisheries ministers meetings. [53978/17]

14/12/2017WROO01000573. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of bilateral meetings he has had with other European ministers in his portfolio regarding fishing quotas and safeguarding Irish fishing interests ahead of the December 2017 Council of Fisheries Ministers meetings. [53984/17]

14/12/2017WROO01100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 567 and 573 together.

I have had bilateral meetings with my counterparts in Denmark, the Netherlands, France, the UK, Germany and Spain. These were focused on the immediate issues arising in relation to TACs and quotas and to a large extent on the issues relating to BREXIT. In addition, I have engaged in a series of trilateral meetings with the Commission and the Estonian Presidency. There have also been a number of bilateral meetings at official level in the months preceding the Council.

In order to inform negotiations at the December Fisheries Council, I also had an assessment of the impacts of the Commission proposal for TACs and quotas for 2018 undertaken. An open consultation process was also put in place in order to inform and facilitate these deliberations, during which stakeholders were invited to submit their comments and observations on the Commission proposal for fishing opportunities for 2018. The specific details of the Commis- sion’s proposal and the impact of those for Ireland were then laid before the Dáil in advance of the December Council.

My primary aim was to achieve a result that protected the interests of the Irish fishing industry, while also respecting the available scientific advice for stocks of vital importance to our fleet. I am pleased that we have managed to secure a good deal for Irish fishermen (a total package of fish quotas worth €266 million and more stocks at maximum sustainable yield) at this year’s EU Fisheries Council that will support our fishing industry for the coming year and continue to rebuild our fish stocks which underpin the future of our industry and our coastal communities.

Question No. 568 answered with Question No. 540.

14/12/2017WROO01300Programme for Government Implementation

14/12/2017WROO01400569. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of progress towards the programme for Government commitment that the green cert will be reviewed to ensure it is fit for purpose. [53980/17]

14/12/2017WROO01500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Green Cert is delivered by Teagasc and has been developed to meet the training requirements for part-time and full-time farmers. It is accredited by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) an independent State agency responsible for promoting quality and accountability in education 288 14 December 2017 and training services in Ireland.

In 2016, Teagasc and QQI undertook a comprehensive review of the Green Cert to ensure that it reflects the changing requirements of Irish farming. This review process was led by a Standards Review Group on behalf of QQI and included industry stakeholders. The Review Group recommended strengthening the Green Cert across many key areas, in particular, grass management, animal breeding, health and safety and sustainable farming approaches.

Subject to formal validation from QQI, Teagasc plan to roll out the new Green Cert programme from early 2018.

14/12/2017WROO01600Programme for Government Implementation

14/12/2017WROO01700570. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of progress towards the programme for Government commitment to seek recognition from the European Commission for forgotten farmers as a group with specific disadvantage under the national reserve in the same way that old young farmers are currently provided for; and the number of meetings he has had with Commission representatives on this issue. [53981/17]

14/12/2017WROO01800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Regula- tions governing the operation of the National Reserve include an optional provision whereby Member States may use the National Reserve to allocate new entitlements or give a top-up on the value of existing entitlements for persons who suffer from a specific disadvantage.

In the context of the discussions with the EU Commission in early 2015 regarding the inclusion of the group referred to as Old Young Farmers under the 2015 National Reserve, the Commission advised that the inclusion of groups under ‘Specific Disadvantage’ category of the National Reserve would require individual approval at EU level.

The National Reserve in 2017 was established using funding derived from a linear cut to the value of all farmers’ entitlements. EU Regulations pertaining to the National Reserve provide that the two categories of young farmer and new entrant to farming must receive priority access to the Reserve. In the context of the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Govern- ment, Ireland consulted with the EU Commission regarding the possibility of including the Forgotten Farmer group under the specific disadvantage category of the 2017 National Reserve. The EU Commission confirmed that Member States cannot use the proceeds of a linear cut to fund a specific disadvantage category of the National Reserve.

The Commission confirmed that the only funding option for the specific disadvantage category is natural replenishment of the Reserve, such as unused entitlements or the proceeds of clawback, but only after the two priority categories of young farmer and new entrant to farming have been catered for.

14/12/2017WROO01900Programme for Government Implementation

14/12/2017WROO02000571. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of progress towards the programme for Government commitment to support for further action at EU level to deliver greater transparency and fairness in the food supply chain; and the number of Council of Agriculture Ministers meetings at which he has raised this subject with colleagues. [53982/17]

289 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WROO02100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The issue of greater transparency in the food chain supply has been discussed on four occasions in 2017 at the Council of Agriculture Ministers meetings. The European Commission is now currently conducting a public consultation exercise on whether EU level action is needed to address anti- competitive practices caused by the weaker position of farmers and SMEs in the food supply chain vis-a-vis other levels of the chain. This assessment is to take into account the work conducted by both the Agricultural Markets Task Force (AMTF) and the High-Level Forum for a Better Functioning Food Supply Chain (HLF).In line with the European Regulatory Fitness and Performance (REFIT) programme, the Commission will assess and summarise all the relevant available evidence and establish the need for EU action, including through a legislative initiative, by means of an Impact Assessment (IA). The outcome of this exercise, in accordance with the due process requirements for an IA, is to be presented in the first half of 2018.

14/12/2017WROO02200Programme for Government Implementation

14/12/2017WROO02300572. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of progress towards the programme for Government commitment to explore the potential for the development of onshore close containment fish farming as an emerging technology. [53983/17]

14/12/2017WROO02400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Ireland’s Na- tional Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development, published in 2015, proposes 24 actions to drive the sustainable development of the aquaculture sector and grow production in the sector by 45,000 tonnes by 2023. The Plan targets a 30% increase in production derived from onshore close containment recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). Considerable international developmental effort is being put into land based RAS systems. A number of techno- logical challenges need to be overcome to make RAS economically viable.

BIM funded a 2015 study by the Irish Salmon Growers Association ‘Potential for Land Based Salmon Growout in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) in Ireland’. The report describes in detail all technical aspects of RAS production and system design and operations. It also covers important biological aspects of land based salmon production.

As part of my Department’s €240 million European Maritime and Fisheries Fund Opera- tional Programme, a new Aquaculture ‘Knowledge Gateway Scheme’ was launched in 2016. I have provided BIM with a budget of €8.2 million for that Scheme over the course of the Programme. In close collaboration with aquaculture enterprises and researchers, the Scheme aims to develop knowledge, innovation and technology in the aquaculture sector to ensure its sustainable development. An important part of the focus of the Scheme will be the applied research and development on RAS identified in the National Strategic Plan. This may take the form of applied research undertaken by BIM on behalf of the sector or initiatives from industry operators or research institutions.

To further incentivise RAS developments, I increased grants rates in December 2016 under the EMFF Sustainable Aquaculture Scheme for RAS developments to the maximum possible rate of 50% for 2017 applications. In May 2017, I doubled the maximum grant amount from €500,000 to €1m per project (still at 50% of eligible expenditure).

The Knowledge Gateway Scheme and the Sustainable Aquaculture Scheme remain open and BIM would welcome industry or research projects related to the development of RAS technology in Ireland.

290 14 December 2017 Question No. 573 answered with Question No. 567.

14/12/2017WROO02600Programme for Government Implementation

14/12/2017WROO02700574. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of progress towards the programme for government commitment to continuing to explore the potential development of an all-island label to successfully address the problems associated with so called nomad cattle; and the number of North South ministerial meetings at which he raised this subject with colleagues. [53986/17]

14/12/2017WROO02800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The labelling of food in the European Union is governed by a number of EU regulations which lay down strict requirements including in relation to mandatory country of origin labelling for certain meats.

Under EU rules, labels on meat from cattle born and reared in the Republic of Ireland and exported live to Northern Ireland and subsequently slaughtered there, must include the member state of birth and rearing, and the member state of slaughter.

It is possible to include a voluntary label, but this may not contradict mandatory origin labelling, nor does it obviate the requirement for mandatory labelling. The possibility of a voluntary all Island label has been previously raised with British retailers, who have made clear that they have a longstanding policy to market British and Irish beef separately, with a simple, clear origin label.

While voluntary labelling of this nature has been mooted as a mechanism to encourage a live export trade between the Republic and Northern Ireland, it must be noted that this trade is determined by a range of factors, including the Sterling exchange rate and the supply of cattle in each market, retailer preferences and production cycles. It should be noted that live exports to Northern Ireland have increased for the year to date by 11% since the corresponding period in 2016.

The North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) is a forum that discusses a wide range of matters pertinent to the beef sectors in both jurisdictions, however this matter has not been the subject of discussions at this meeting in recent times.

14/12/2017WROO02900Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme Payments

14/12/2017WROO03000575. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if an ANC payment for 2017 due to a person (details supplied) will be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54010/17]

14/12/2017WROO03100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): An application under the 2017 Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme was received by my Department from the person named on 21 March 2017. The Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme application has been fully processed and payment will issue shortly to the nominated bank account of the person named.

14/12/2017WROO03200Departmental Funding

14/12/2017WROO03300576. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his

291 Questions - Written Answers plans to invest in facilities for public use; if such investment will be made in 2018 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54060/17]

14/12/2017WROO03400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): In relation to investment in facilities for public use, my Department provides funding for the NeighbourWood Scheme, which supports the development of attractive close-to-home woodland amenities (or ‘neighbourwoods’) for public use and enjoyment. The scheme is available to both public and private landowners, working in partnership with local communities.

With regard to facilities provided by Coillte, the company was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988 and day-to-day operational matters, such as the development of recreational facilities on its lands, are the responsibility of the company.

The matter was, however, raised with Coillte, who advised that it received funding, during 2017, from the Department of Rural and Community Development to support the development of Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trail Centre and Coolaney Mountain Bike Trail Centre as well as their annual maintenance programme to maintain their forest parks. The company add that, in terms of investment in recreation, plans for the development of Avondale House and Forest Park, Co. Wicklow are progressing well. Coillte advise that the regular annual programme of works will be undertaken in 2018 to maintain and upgrade the existing trails, picnic areas, play areas and visitor facilities at all of Coillte’s recreation sites and forest parks with a review of each of Coillte’s forest parks to be carried out, in early 2018, to assess potential new facilities that could be provided and the available resources to do so.

14/12/2017WRPP00200Forestry Sector

14/12/2017WRPP00300577. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to upgrade or provide new facilities in 2018 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54061/17]

14/12/2017WRPP00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Coillte was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988 and day-to-day operational matters, such as the development of recreational facilities on its lands, are the responsibility of the company.

The matter was, however, raised with Coillte, who advised that it currently has no plans to provide new facilities in 2018 in the forest parks named by the Deputy. Coillte advise that a review of each of Coillte’s forest parks will be carried out, in early 2018, to assess potential new facilities that could be provided and what resources are available to do so and add that the regular annual programme of works will be undertaken in 2018 to maintain and upgrade the existing trails, picnic areas, play areas and visitor facilities at all of Coillte’s recreation sites and forest parks.

14/12/2017WRPP00500Fodder Crisis

14/12/2017WRPP00600578. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will give further consideration to the introduction of a fodder aid scheme following the Fianna Fáil Private Members’ motion on this issue and the difficulties facing farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54121/17]

14/12/2017WRPP00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Weather con-

292 14 December 2017 ditions over much of this Autumn have been challenging for farmers and created difficulties for farmers particularly in the Western regions and on heavier land types.

Grass growth rates through the autumn have been ahead of last year. However the poor weather resulted in cattle being housed earlier than normal in places, particularly on the heavier soils; it also affected late cut silage making operations.

I have asked Teagasc to work locally in areas with fodder difficulties, supporting good budgeting of fodder supplies on farms for the winter ahead.

The European Commission agreed to my request for an advance payment of the 2017 Basic Payment Scheme. This meant an increase from 50% to 70% in the rate for the BPS to those applicants whose applications were confirmed fully clear and 85% payment of our main Agri- environment scheme, GLAS. Issuing of these payments commenced after 15 October.

Over €1.2 billion in payments has issued to farmers over recent weeks, something that has significantly improved cash flow on these farms.

In order to ensure a co-ordinated approach to the issue of fodder availability, I recently convened a fodder group which is made up of all the main stakeholders including feed merchants and co-ops, banking, farm bodies etc and the first meeting took place on Monday 11th Decem- ber chaired by Teagasc. The group’s objective is to actively monitor the situation and to ensure co-ordinated expertise and guidance is available to all farmers impacted.

Arising from the meeting, Teagasc will begin a survey of fodder availability in the east and south of the country to ascertain what supplies are still available for purchase, across the country.

I will continue to actively monitor the situation in the impacted areas over the coming period.

14/12/2017WRPP00800Ministerial Staff

14/12/2017WRPP00900579. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54188/17]

14/12/2017WRPP01000580. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the use his Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54204/17]

14/12/2017WRPP01100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 579 and 580 together.

The information sought by the Deputy is publically accessible on the website of the Depart- ment of Defence at www.defence.ie.

14/12/2017WRPP01200Departmental Expenditure 293 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRPP01300581. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54220/17]

14/12/2017WRPP01400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The information requested by the Deputy with regard to photography is available on my Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie/aboutus/ministers/photographycosts. This information is regularly updated by my Department. Wherever possible, the Department avails of internal photography skills.

14/12/2017WRPP01500Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRPP01600582. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54236/17]

14/12/2017WRPP01700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment generally does not employ external public relations firms and did not employ any external public relations firms from 2011 to 2016. Public relations advice is provided by my Depart- ment’s Press Office.

In April of this year, the services of “All Good Tales”, a public relations company, were used to provide training for staff members for the National Animal Surveillance Programme. The cost of this training was €5,965.

14/12/2017WRPP01800Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRPP01900583. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54252/17]

14/12/2017WRPP02000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I wish to advise the Deputy that the information requested is outlined in the link.

[2011 - 2017]

14/12/2017WRPP02100Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRPP02200584. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54268/17] 294 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRPP02300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): This year, my Department ran 6 public information campaigns during which the services of an advertising agency “MediaVest Limited” were used. For these campaigns the Department generally advertised through MediaVest but occasionally went to some publications to advertise directly. The expenditure for the 6 public information campaigns is set out in the following table:

Advertising and Publicity 2017

Event/Campaign Company Total - € Backyard Poultry campaign Agriland 923 in response to Avian Influ- enza Outbreak MediaVest* 25,722 Basic Payment Scheme Agriland 2,460 Campaign encouraging farmers to use the Depart- ments online application system, www.agfood.ie, to apply for their Basic Pay- ment. Ear to the Ground 1,875 ICMSA Dairy Digest 2,500 ICSA Magazine 1,000 Irish Farmers Journal 19,188 Irish Farmers Monthly 13,068 MediaVest 6.795 MOB Media 799 Farm Hazardous Waste Agriland 7,380 Campaign Irish Farmers Monthly 1,538 Dog Purchase Radio Cam- MediaVest 19,265 paign – Campaign giving advice to people intending to purchase a puppy or a dog – Ran in December 2016, paid for in January 2017 Green Low-Carbon Agri-En- MediaVest 30,350 vironment (GLAS) Scheme radio advert encouraging Farmers to submit their Nutrient Management Plan in order for their payment to issue. New Tree Felling Require- Irish Farmers Monthly 2,614 ments – Campaign informing of updated legislation with regard to Tree-Felling.

295 Questions - Written Answers Event/Campaign Company Total - € Poultry Registration Ra- MediaVest 22,592 dio Advert – Campaign to encourage Backyard Poultry Owners to register with the Department *Mediavest held the central Government contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. They are currently a framework member on the Framework Agreement for the Media Planning Strategy & Buying in Lots 2 and 3. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

14/12/2017WRPP02400Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRPP02500585. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54284/17]

14/12/2017WRPP02600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The information requested by the Deputy with regard to photography is available on my Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie/aboutus/ministers/photographycosts.

This information is regularly updated by my Department. Wherever possible, the Depart- ment avails of internal photography skills.

My Department generally does not employ external public relations firms. Public relations advice is provided by my Department’s Press Office. In April of this year, the services of “All Good Tales”, a public relations company, were used to provide training for staff members for the National Animal Surveillance Programme. The cost of this training was €5,965.

Also this year, my Department ran 6 public information campaigns for which the services of an advertising agency “MediaVest Limited” were engaged. For these campaigns, my Depart- ment generally advertised through MediaVest but occasionally went to the advertiser directly. The expenditure for the 6 public information campaigns is set out in the table.

There was no expenditure in respect of Media Interview training in 2017.

The expenditure on website development in 2017 amounted to €10,332.

Advertising and Publicity 2017

Event/Campaign Company Total - € Backyard Poultry campaign in re- Agriland 923 sponse to Avian Influenza Outbreak MediaVest* 25,722 Basic Payment Scheme Campaign Agriland 2,460 encouraging farmers to use the De- partments online application system, www.agfood.ie, to apply for their Basic Payment.

296 14 December 2017

Event/Campaign Company Total - € Ear to the Ground 1,875 ICMSA Dairy Digest 2,500 ICSA Magazine 1,000 Irish Farmers Journal 19,188 Irish Farmers Monthly 13,068 MediaVest 6.795 MOB Media 799 Farm Hazardous Waste Campaign Agriland 7,380 Irish Farmers Monthly 1,538 Dog Purchase Radio Campaign – MediaVest 19,265 Campaign giving advice to people intending to purchase a puppy or a dog. – Ran in December 2016, paid for in January 2017 Green Low-Carbon Agri-Environment MediaVest 30,350 (GLAS) Scheme radio advert encouraging Farmers to submit their Nutrient Management Plan in order for their payment to issue. New Tree Felling Requirements – Irish Farmers Monthly 2,614 Campaign informing of updated legislation with regard to Tree-Felling. Poultry Registration Radio Advert MediaVest 22,592 – Campaign to encourage Backyard Poultry Owners to register with the Department *Mediavest held the central Government contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. They are currently a framework member on the Framework Agreement for the Media Planning Strategy & Buying in Lots 2 & 3. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

14/12/2017WRPP02700Air Pollution

14/12/2017WRPP02800586. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the use of smoky coals will still be allowed for certain types of engine for example vintage tractor engines and vintage locomotive engines; his plans to make provisions for the use of smoky coal allowable in very specific circumstances in view of his recent announcement on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53543/17]

14/12/2017WRPP02900Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The ban on the marketing, sale and distribution of bituminous coal, or the ‘smoky coal ban’ as it is commonly known, has proved very effective in reducing particulate matter and sulphur dioxide levels within the areas it applies, with an associated significant improvement in public health. Research indicates, for example, that the ban has resulted in over 350 fewer annual deaths in Dublin alone. Residential burning of coal is a key source of air pollution and the ban on the use of smoky coal will, therefore, be extended nationwide from Autumn 2018 as part of the national Clean Air Strategy which will be published early in 2018.

I am disposed towards allowing limited exemptions for the use of vintage tractor and locomotive engines, and this will be considered in the context of the regulations currently being drafted to implement the ban.

297 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRPP03000Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRPP03100587. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53563/17]

14/12/2017WRPP03200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): There are two Acts for which all sections have yet to be formally commenced by my Department. The details are set out in the following table.:

Title of Act Section(s) not yet com- Purpose of section(s) Reason for delay in commenced mencement Energy Act 2016 Provisions not yet com- Section 8 of the Energy Act Section 7 of the Energy Act menced are sections 8 and provides for a revised legal (which was commenced on 19 definition of the existing enactment) provides for cer- Single Electricity Market tain transitional measures (SEM) in the Electricity for the Single Electricity Regulation Act 1999, as Market (SEM) that will op- amended. Section 19 places erate during the interim pe- a statutory obligation on the riod until go live date of the CRU to produce a Strategy Integrated Single Electricity Statement every three years Market (I-SEM). Section in respect of its energy and 8 of the Act, in relation to safety remit I-SEM, will be commenced when the new market goes live and operational in May 2018 and the transitional arrangements cease. The commencement of section 19 has been deferred on the basis that the CRU’s current strategic plan covering 2014 to 2018 covers energy, energy safety and water up to, and inclusive of, 2018. This deferral affords the CRU time to develop a new combined Strategy Statement for the three year period from 2019 to 2021, for water and energy regulation, on expiry of the current statement at the end of 2018. It is expected that the process of developing the new strategy statement will commence in 2018, with the new statement therefore commencing in 2019. Sec- tion 19 will be commenced during 2018 to enable the next such Strategy State- ment to be completed, submitted to the Minister and laid before the Oireachtas, within the six month period stated in the section.

298 14 December 2017

Title of Act Section(s) not yet com- Purpose of section(s) Reason for delay in commenced mencement Minerals Development Act With the exception of The Minerals Develop- 2017 Section 212 in relation to ment Act 2017, which was Deemed cancellation of enacted on the 26 July registration of excepted 2017, will make further and minerals which took effect better provisions for the on the date of passage of the development of minerals Act, all other sections have in the State and repeal the not yet commenced. (256 Minerals Development Acts Sections). 1940 to 1999.Parts 1 and 2 of the Act provide for the principles, policies and procedures for the regulating of mineral exploration and development. In order to commence these Parts detailed regulations are currently being drafted and it is expected that they will be completed in Q2 2018. It will then be possible to commence these parts of the Act. The remaining Parts of the Act relating to Min- ing and Rehabilitation will be commenced once the detailed Regulations have been drafted to allow commencement. It is expected that this will happen later in 2018.

14/12/2017WRPP03300Waste Management

14/12/2017WRPP03400588. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the progress that been made between his Department and private waste collectors in providing waivers or extra allowances in relation to the pay by weight system for families that have children or adults with special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53586/17]

14/12/2017WRPP03500Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): In line with the commitments set out in A Resource Opportunity - Waste Manage- ment Policy in Ireland, published in 2012, and in the interest of encouraging further waste prevention and greater recycling, flat-rate fees for kerbside household waste collection are being phased out over the period autumn 2017 to autumn 2018, as customers contracts come up for renewal. The necessary regulatory steps have been put in place to give effect to this measure.

It is worth noting that this measure is not ‘new’ for about half of kerbside household waste customers, who are already on an incentivised usage pricing plan, i.e., a plan which contains a per lift or weight related fee.

As announced in mid-2017, mandatory per kilogramme ‘pay by weight’ charging is not being introduced. Allowing for a range of charging options, which encourage householders to reduce and separate their waste, provides flexibility to waste collectors to develop various service-price offerings that suit different household circumstances. Consequently, a pure per kilogramme charge for waste collection may not be selected by some households. Instead, some households may use a ‘per lift’ type charge or a ‘weight allowance’ collection service.

An annual support of €75 will be introduced next year and made available for persons with 299 Questions - Written Answers lifelong or long-term medical incontinence. This will help people meet the average annual cost of disposal of medical incontinence products. My Department is in discussion with the Depart- ment of Health and the Health Service Executive with a view to finalising the details and arrangements of the support as soon as possible, following further consultation with stakeholder groups.

14/12/2017WRPP03600National Broadband Plan Implementation

14/12/2017WRPP03700589. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if fibre broadband will be extended to a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53591/17]

14/12/2017WRPP03800Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to ensure high speed broadband access (minimum 30 megabits per second) to all premises in Ireland, regardless of location. The NBP has been a catalyst in encouraging investment by the telecoms sector so that today over 67% of the 2.3m premises in Ireland have access to high speed broadband. This is set to increase to 77% (1.8m premises) by the end of 2018 and to 90% (2.1m premises) by the end of 2020. In April I published an updated High Speed Broadband Map which is available at www.broadband.gov.ie. This map shows the areas targeted by commercial operators to provide high speed broadband services and the areas that will be included in the State Intervention Area under the National Broadband Plan (NBP).

The Map is colour coded and searchable by address/eircode:

- The AMBER areas represent the target areas for the proposed State led Intervention under the NBP and are the subject of an ongoing procurement process.

- The BLUE represent those areas where commercial providers are either currently delivering or have plans to deliver high speed broadband services.

- The Light BLUE areas represent eir’s commercial rural deployment plans to roll out high speed broadband to 300,000 premises by the end of 2018 as part of an Agreement signed with me in April.

In the absence of a specific eircode for the premises referenced by the Deputy, my De- partment’s High Speed Broadband Map shows that there are 65 premises in the townland of Crohane (Ed Aghadoe), Co Kerry of which 21 premises fall within the AMBER area and will require State Intervention. The remaining 44 premises fall within the LIGHT BLUE area and are to be covered by eir’s planned rural deployment. Individuals can check whether their premises is in an AMBER, BLUE or LIGHT BLUE area by accessing the High Speed Broadband Map and entering their Eircode at www.broadband.gov.ie. Information on eir’s planned rural deployment is available from eir at http://fibrerollout.ie/eircode-lookup/.

My Department is in a formal procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network in the State intervention area. That procurement process is now at an advanced stage. The “Detailed Solutions” submitted by two bidders on 26 September are being evaluated by the NBP specialist team. The next stage in the procurement process is the receipt of final tenders followed by the appointment of a preferred bidder(s) and contract signature. I recognise the importance of availability of high speed connectivity for all premises in Ireland and the frustration for communities that do not currently have access to this level of connectivity. Delivering connectivity to the 542,000 premises (including the 21 premises in Crohane (Ed Aghadoe)) that fall within the State led intervention under the NBP 300 14 December 2017 remains a Government priority and my Department will engage with the winning bidder(s) to ensure the most efficient deployment as part of the contract.

As part of this procurement process, the bidder(s) will be required to submit their strategies, including timescales, for the network build and roll-out. My Department will engage with the winning bidder(s) to ensure the most efficient deployment as part of the contract.

Any customer across Ireland who experiences difficulties with lack of phone service in their area including the townland of Crohane, should raise the matter with the service provider in the first instance. If this fails to resolve matters, customers can and should refer a complaint to ComReg, which will investigate the service provider’s compliance with its contractual obligations.

However, notwithstanding the independence of ComReg, I recognise the frustration experienced across Ireland where telecommunications networks are not always delivering the services people expect. In July 2016, I established the Mobile phone and Broadband Task force to identify how better services could be provided to consumers prior to the full build and roll-out of the network planned under the State led intervention under the NBP. The work of the Mobile and Phone Broadband Task force will continue to address obstacles and improve connectivity in respect of existing and future mobile phone and broadband services.

Under this Task force, engagement between telecommunications operators and local authorities through the Broadband Officers is continuing to strengthen. These Broadband Officers are acting as single points of contact in local authorities for their communities. The appointment of these officers is already reaping rewards in terms of ensuring a much greater degree of consistency in engagements with operators and clearing obstacles to developing infrastructure. There is a link to a list of these local Broadband Officers on my Department’s website.

14/12/2017WRPP03900Climate Change Advisory Council

14/12/2017WRPP04000590. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and En- vironment the number of full-time and part-time staff working directly in the Climate Change Advisory Council; the yearly running costs including staffing costs; and the Exchequer funding in each year since it was established. [53689/17]

14/12/2017WRPP04100Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The Climate Change Advisory Council was established by Ministerial Order (S.I. No 25 of 2016) on 18 January 2016 pursuant to section 8 of the Climate Change and Low Car- bon Development Act 2015. The Advisory Council consists of eleven members appointed by Government, acting in a part-time capacity, four of whom are ex-officio members. The overall costs associated with the operation of the Advisory Council are provided for through the budget of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is funded, in part, through my Depart- ment’s Vote.

Ordinary members of the Advisory Council receive an annual remuneration of €9,800, with the Chair receiving an annual remuneration of €16,250, in line with the scale of Department of Public Expenditure and Reform approved fees for chairpersons and members of State Boards. Ex Officio members of the Advisory Council do not receive remuneration. In line with the ‘One Person One Salary’ remuneration policy for public servants, members of the Advisory Council already in receipt of a public service salary may not receive any further remuneration by virtue of their membership of the Council. However, in certain cases, remuneration is paid directly to the member’s parent institution to offset the costs of that member’s commitments to

301 Questions - Written Answers the Advisory Council. Members of the Advisory Council also receive travel and subsistence expenses in line with public service rates.

I am advised by the EPA that the remuneration received in 2016 and in 2017 by members of the Advisory Council is as follows:

Name Category of Member Annual Remuneration Professor John Fitzgerald Chair of Council €16,250 (gross) direct payment Mr. Joseph Curtin Ordinary member €9,800 (gross) paid to University College Cork Professor Frank Convery Ordinary member Declined payment in both 2016 and 2017 Professor Anna Davies Ordinary member €9,800 (gross) paid to Trinity Col- lege Dublin Professor Alan Matthews Ordinary member €9,800 (gross) direct payment Professor Ottmar Edenhoffer Ordinary member €9,800 (gross) direct payment Professor Peter Clinch Ordinary member €9,800 (gross) paid to University College Dublin Ms. Laura Burke Ex Officio, Director General of Nil EPA Mr. Jim Gannon Ex Officio, Chief Executive of Nil SEAI Prof. Gerry Boyle Ex Officio, Director of Teagasc Nil Prof. Alan Barrett Ex Officio, Chief Executive Of- Nil ficer of ESRI The Advisory Council is supported in its work by four full-time EPA employees. The EPA also provides corporate services to the Advisory Council which are reimbursed in accordance with guidelines on reimbursement of operational overhead costs set out in Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Circular 13/13, Public Spending Code: Expenditure Planning, Ap- praisal and Evaluation in the Irish Public Service - Standard Rules and Procedures.

I am further advised by the EPA that the overall operating costs of the Advisory Council during its first two years of operation are as set out in the table below.

Item 2016 2017* Meeting costs (room, lunch- €3,248 €5,694 es, etc.) Travel expenses for Council €7,441 €4,190 members and guest speakers at Council meetings Remuneration of Council €65,250 €65,250 members Printing, publications and €5,646 €17,302 office Secretariat salary costs (4 €221,942 €222,209 fulltime staff)* Operational overhead costs €83,438 €119,698 TOTAL: € 386,965 € 434,343 *Year to end-November.

14/12/2017WRPP04200National Broadband Plan Data 302 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRPP04300591. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of amber premises for the State intervention area; the number of blue and light blue premises to be covered by commercial operators; the number of premises that have been connected under the plan for each such category under the national broadband plan, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53723/17]

14/12/2017WRPP04400592. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the date by which the contract for the State intervention area will be awarded under the national broadband plan; and the approximate project build time from award of tender to construction and completion of all premises. [53724/17]

14/12/2017WRPP04500Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 591 and 592 together.

The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to ensure high speed broadband access (minimum 30 megabits per second) to all premises in Ireland, regardless of location. The NBP has been a catalyst in encouraging investment by the telecoms sector so that today over 67% of the 2.3m premises in Ireland have access to high speed broadband. This is set to increase to 77% (1.8m premises) by the end of 2018 and to 90% (2.1m premises) by the end of 2020.

In April I published an updated High Speed Broadband Map which is available at www. broadband.gov.ie. This map shows the areas targeted by commercial operators to provide high speed broadband services and the areas that will be included in the State Intervention Area under the National Broadband Plan (NBP).

The Map is colour coded and searchable by address/eircode:

- The AMBER areas represent the target areas for the proposed State led Intervention under the NBP and are the subject of an ongoing procurement process.

- The BLUE represent those areas where commercial providers are either currently delivering or have plans to deliver high speed broadband services.

- The Light BLUE areas represent eir’s commercial rural deployment plans to roll out high speed broadband to 300,000 premises by the end of 2018 as part of an Agreement signed with me in April.

A tabulated list of the number of premises countrywide which fall into these categories is attached, as is a tabulated list on the number of premises passed under eir’s rural deployment. As of Q3 2017 my Department can confirm that a total of 12,475 premises have been connected under this rural deployment. Recent reports by eir state this figure has risen to over 14,000, an increase of over 130% from Q2. This number is expected to continue to rise in coming quarterly reports.

Information on eir’s planned rural deployment, including estimated roll-out times, is available at http://fibrerollout.ie/eircode-lookup/. A copy of the Commitment Agreement is available on my Department’s website www.dccae.gov.ie as are quarterly updates on eir’s rural deployment. eir has committed to completing the roll-out by the end of 2018.

I recognise the frustration experienced across Ireland where telecommunications networks are not always delivering the services people expect. In the interim, practical initiatives will continue to be addressed through the work of the Mobile Phone and Broadband Task force to address obstacles and improve connectivity in respect of existing and future mobile phone and broadband services.

14/12/2017WRQQ00200Electric Vehicle Grants

14/12/2017WRQQ00300593. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the estimated cost of extending the SEAI grant for electric vehicle purchase until 2019 to 2023, respectively. [54078/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ00350594. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the estimated cost of extending the SEAI grant for hybrid vehicle purchase until 2019 to 2023, respectively. [54079/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ00400Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 593 and 594 together.

The electric vehicle purchase grant, introduced in April 2011, provides grant aid of up to €5,000 towards the purchase of a new Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) or new Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). Other hybrid vehicles do not qualify for support under the scheme.

From the introduction of the Scheme to the end of November 2017, grant support has been provided for the purchase of a total of 2,607 new vehicles to the value of €12.2 million. Dur- ing the first eleven months of this year, €4.1 million has been provided to support the purchase of 879 new electric vehicles.

The grant scheme will continue into 2018 with 6 million euro allocated in the Department’s budget for this purpose. The scheme will kept under review in relation to funding and grant amounts for future years.

The purchase grant scheme is demand led and it is therefore difficult to predict exactly how many vehicles will be supported in future years. In May this year, the Government approved and published the National Policy Framework on Alternative Fuels Infrastructure for Transport in Ireland 2017 to 2030. This policy framework sets an ambitious target that by 2030 all new cars and vans sold in Ireland will be zero emissions, or zero emissions capable.

304 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRQQ00800Climate Change Policy

14/12/2017WRQQ00900595. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount that has been contributed to the green climate fund in 2017; and the amount that is pledged for 2018. [54082/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ01000Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naugh- ten): I refer to the reply to Question No. 397 of 29 November 2017. The position is unchanged.

14/12/2017WRQQ01100Broadcasting Charge

14/12/2017WRQQ01200596. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the licence fee receipts collected in 2017 to date; the level of evasion that is currently estimated to occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54083/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ01300Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The total TV licence fee receipts to 30 November is €198m. This figure includes funding provided by the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) of €48.8m in respect of free TV licences issued under the Household Benefits Scheme and receipts from An Post for direct licence sales of €149.2m. The total receipts for 2017 will not be known until Q1 2018 when final sales figures for the year are available. I am very much aware of the challenges that face the existing TV Licence system including the current level of evasion which is estimated to be 14.6%. A number of diverse sources are used in calculating the evasion rate, including household data from the 2016 Census, business data from the Revenue Commis- sioner’s Annual Report 2016 and the numbers qualifying for free licences from DEASP. While the rate has fallen from 15.3% at the end of 2013, it is still very high and equates to a loss of €40m per annum to public service broadcasting.

To address this issue, my Department has been working with An Post and RTÉ on an ongoing basis to ensure that the TV licence collection system is working as effectively as possible. Measures such as marketing campaigns, more evening and weekend inspection and appointment of additional temporary inspectors are just some of the initiatives that have been utilised to enhance sales and improve compliance rates.

While these measures are important steps, I believe that the current system needs to be re- formed. As the Deputy will be aware, I obtained Government approval earlier this year to draft a number of legislative amendments to the Broadcasting Act 2009, including amendments for the tendering of TV Licence fee collection. The proposed amendments are currently under Pre- Legislative Scrutiny by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment and I look forward to receiving the Committee’s Report on the matter.

In addition, I requested the Committee to examine the longer term issue of the future funding of public service media. The Committee recently published their report on this issue. My Department is currently examining the recommendations.

14/12/2017WRQQ01400Energy Efficiency

14/12/2017WRQQ01500597. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount that has been allocated to residential energy efficiency programmes for 2018, by programme. [54084/17]

305 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRQQ01600Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): In Budget 2018, I secured €107m in capital funding for energy efficiency, an increase of over 40%. This capital increase is complemented by an increased current expenditure allocation that will allow the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to support the expansion of our highly successful energy efficiency schemes bringing the total allocation for energy efficiency schemes to €117m.

Of the €107m in capital funding, at this point I expect to allocate approximately €84m to domestic energy efficiency programmes. A full breakdown of these figures is not yet available pending announcements on the operation of individual SEAI schemes in 2018. I have already announced that €28m worth of grants will be awarded under the Better Energy Com- munities scheme, and applications for this scheme are already open.

These figures will be confirmed in the Revised Estimates for Public Services, which I understand will be published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform later this month.

14/12/2017WRQQ01700Broadcasting Legislation

14/12/2017WRQQ01800598. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount that has been budgeted for journalism bursaries for 2018; the number of bursaries that will be provided with this funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54085/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ01900Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naugh- ten): There is currently no provision in the Broadcasting legislation for a bursary scheme for journalists and, as such, the issue of a 2018 budget does not arise.

As the Deputy is aware, one of the amendments that I have proposed to the Broadcasting Act, 2009 is to amend the provisions of section 154 to allow for the creation of a new funding scheme that would allow the granting of bursaries to journalists in local or community radio stations. As the Deputy is also aware, the Broadcasting (Amendment) Bill is currently under pre legislative scrutiny by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Climate Action and Environment and I look forward to receiving the Committee’s Report.

14/12/2017WRQQ02000EU Directives

14/12/2017WRQQ02100599. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to introduce measures to deal with the large volumes of packaging resulting from persons purchasing goods online from producers and retailers that fall outside of a scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54088/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ02200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): Repak is the approved producer responsibility compliance scheme for packaging in Ireland and is tasked with meeting recovery and recycling targets established under the EU Packaging Directive (94/62/EC). This Directive is transposed by the European Union (Packag- ing) Regulations 2014. In accordance with these regulations any producer placing packaging on the Irish market is obliged to ensure that their waste packaging is recovered in a prescribed manner.

Membership of Repak ensures that regulatory obligations in relation to the treatment of waste packaging are fulfilled.

306 14 December 2017 The Packaging Directive does not afford Member States the power to exercise control over distance sellers who place packaging on the market in Ireland from outside the country. How- ever, amendments to the Packaging and Waste Framework Directives are being negotiated at EU level at the moment and Ireland has argued for controls on distance sellers to be introduced.

Amendments to our national packaging legislation will be necessary on foot of amendments to the Packaging Directive. At that point all stakeholders will be consulted, including on possible models for dealing with distance sellers if the relevant powers are given to Member States.

14/12/2017WRQQ02300Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRQQ02400600. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department per annum since coming into office, in tabular form; the external public relations firms used; the internal departmental policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54089/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ02500605. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54239/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ02600Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 600 and 605 together.

My Department’s remit includes complex policy areas, oversight of State regulation and service provision across key strategic services such as energy and public broadcasting, and regulation of sectors such as mining and hydrocarbon exploration. Given the technical complexity, economic significance and community interest in these areas, there is a requirement to disseminate information and to address specific issues as they arise. The Department therefore necessarily incurs some expenditure on public relations from time to time.

In procuring these services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and keeping expenditure to the minimum necessary.

The information requested in the Question is outlined in the following table:

Company Amount Purpose of Spent on Consultancy Public Re- lations for each year 2011 - € 2012 - € 2013 - € 2014 - € 2015 - € 2016 - € 2017 (to date) - € Morrow 40,514 19,538 18,318 28,221 54,516 41,546 36,962 Provision of Communi- services in cations Ltd relation to outreach in rural communities with respect to low flying geophysical survey and soil geochemical survey.

307 Questions - Written Answers

Company Amount Purpose of Spent on Consultancy Public Re- lations for each year 2011 - € 2012 - € 2013 - € 2014 - € 2015 - € 2016 - € 2017 (to date) - € Murray 8,349 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Media Services Consultants to the Depart- ment. McConnells 32,670 86,933 n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a Public Advertising information Agency campaign on the Digital Switchover. Commu- n/a n/a 1,797 n/a n/a n/a n/a Management nications of two Public Consultants Information Ireland Meetings on new Inland Fisheries Leg- islation Danielle n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 65,608 Communica- Coombs tions Officer Mandy n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 7,200 Provision of Johnson services in Communi- relation to cations Household Waste Aware- ness Campaign Focus Ad- n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 15,855 Provisions vertising of services in relation to Household Waste Aware- ness Campaign The information set out in the table does not include information in relation to the use of public relations services for the period prior to July 2016 for those areas formerly the responsibility of the then Department of Environment, Community and Local Government which transferred to my Department in July 2016.

14/12/2017WRQQ02700Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRQQ02800601. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the photography costs per annum for his Department since coming to office, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance, in tabular form; the occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the breakdown of costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54090/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ02900604. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department. [54223/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ03000Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 601 and 604 together.

The policy of selection and contracting of photography services for my Department is car- 308 14 December 2017 ried out as part of competitive procurement processes in line with Office of Government Pro- curement guidelines. Where possible, every effort is made to minimise costs

The following table sets out the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Envi- ronment photography costs from 2011 to date in 2017:

Photography Costs in 2011

Company Event Cost - € Maxwell Photography Government convenes Next 341 Generation Broadband Task- force Maxwell Photography Age Action Silver Surfer 275 Launch (pre shoot) Maxwell Photography Minister Rabbitte stock pho- 409 tos available for widespread media use Maxwell Photography Minister Rabbitte welcomes 552 EU Commission Telecoms specialists to Dublin Maxwell Photography Publication of the Govern- 1,052 ment’s Affordable Energy Strategy Launch of Irish Anti Botnet Website (anti cyber crime initiative) 2011 Total 2,629 Photography Costs in 2012 Jason Clarke Photography Launch of Community 492 Outreach Campaign - Digital TV Switchover Jason Clarke Photography Launch of the SMS 112 492 emergency service Jason Clarke Photography Nationwide rollout of high 492 speed broadband to second level schools Jason Clarke Photography Minister Rabbitte welcomes 492 23 Digital Outreach Cham- pions Maxwell Photography Next Generation Broadband 485 Taskforce launch Jason Clarke Photography Launch of the Renewable 492 Energy Strategy Report Jason Clarke Photography Third Central & North 492 Atlantic Conjugate Margins Conference Jason Clarke Photography Launch of the National 492 Broadband Plan Jason Clarke Photography Minister Rabbitte visits 492 Kippure TV mast for Digital Switchover with media

309 Questions - Written Answers Company Event Cost - € Phocus Minister Rabbitte inspects 359 high speed broadband in St. Colman’s School Jason Clarke Photography Announcement of Ireland’s 492 Digital Champion Fennell Photography Taking of last Tellus Border 553 geochemical sample photocall, Minister O’Dowd, Co. Louth, 15th June 2012. 2012 Total 5,825 Photography Costs in 2013 Jason Clarke Photography Signing of Energy MoU 492 with Britain Maxwell Photography Launch of National Energy 499 Efficiency Action Plan Maxwell Photography Announcement of phase II 361 of Schools Broadband in Warrenmount School Maxwell Photography Launch of the National Digi- 327 tal Strategy Maxwell Photography Appointment of the New 137 Chairman and Commission- ers in Comreg Fennell Photography Tellus Border Data Launch 1,595 stakeholder event, Daven- port Hotel, 5th Feb 2013. Tellus Border gold data launch photo call, Minister O’Dowd, 17th Oct 2013, National Museum. 2013 Total 3,411 Photography Costs in 2014 Maxwell Photography Launch of Energy Green 327 Paper Hany Marzouk (freelance Announcement of National 273 photographer) Broadband Plan state intervention Maxwell Photography Launch of the Trading On- 309 line Voucher Scheme with Local Enterprise Offices Maxwell Photography Launch of the report of the 309 Internet Content Governance Advisory Group JMAC Photography 100,000th participant receiv- 227 ing digital training under BenefIT scheme – Arran- more Island

310 14 December 2017 Company Event Cost - € Maxwell Photography National Digital Strategy 499 Award of Grants to Benefit IIII projects Fennell Photography National Digital Strategy 411 Showcase, Dublin Castle 2014 Total 2,355 Photography Costs in 2015 Maxwell Photography Post Office Network Busi- 533 ness Development Group – press event at Rathangan Post Office Maxwell Photography National Broadband Plan 447 Maxwell Photography 1000th Trading Online 551 Voucher Maxwell Photography Launch of Energy White 430 paper Fennell Photography Tellus North midlands data 283 release photo call, GSI, 21st Sept 2015. Mac Innes Photography Staff Headshots 1,793 2015 Total 4,037 Photography Costs in 2016 Maxwell Photography Post Office Network Group 585 Maxwell photography Hodson Bay Hotel Athlone 717 Maxwell Photography Digital Economy Report 602 Maxwell Photography Launch of New EPA Guide- 717 lines Maxwell Photography Digital Economy Report 602 Maxwell Photography Asthma Society 413 Maxwell Photography Mobile & Broadband Task- 361 force Launch . Fennell Photography Tellus Waterford block 957 airborne data release, photocall Minister Kyne, Copper Coast Visitor Centre 29th July 2016; geochemistry file image photography, Water- ford. Mac Innes Photography Young Scientist 316 Mac Innes Photography Staff Headshots 2,087 Total 2016 7,357 Photography Costs in 2017 Maxwell Photography Intergovernmental Panel Cli- 120 mate Change (IPCC) Event Maxwell Photography Forum on Food Waste 241

311 Questions - Written Answers Company Event Cost - € Maxwell Photography Ladies Gaelic Football - 482 Free to Air Finals Maxwell Photography National Broadband Launch 430 Andrew Fox Photography Mobile Phone and Broad- 200 band Taskforce Forum Marc O’ Sullivan Photogra- Advanced Mobile Location 553 phy Launch Andrew Fox Photography Local Authority Broadband 450 Officers NBP Workshop to highlight the:- Announce- ment of the eir 300k rural roll out Commitment Agree- ment- Launch of the updated High Speed Broadband Map Maxwell Photography Photo shoot to highlight the 499 NBP:- Announcement of the eir 300k rural roll out Com- mitment Agreement- Launch of the updated High Speed Broadband Map Mac Innes Photography Prints 51 Maxwell Photography School Digital Champion 529 Programme – Showcase Event 13th May 2017. Total to date in 2017 3,555 The information set out in the table does not include information in relation to the use of photography services for the period prior to July 2016 for those areas formerly the responsibility of the then Department of Environment, Community and Local Government which transferred to my Department in July 2016.

14/12/2017WRQQ03100Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRQQ03200602. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54191/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ03300603. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and En- vironment the use his Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54207/17]

14/12/2017WRQQ03400Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 602 and 603 together.

The use of the government jet by Government Ministers is subject to the authorisation of An Taoiseach. Since being appointed as Minister to my Department in May, 2016, I utilised the government jet twice, as set out below. On both occasions the jet had already been requested by colleague Ministers.

312 14 December 2017 Departure Date Return Date Route Purpose 19/06/2016 20/06/2016 Baldonnel – Lux- Environment embourg – Baldon- Council, Luxem- nel bourg 16/10/2016 17/10/2016 Baldonnel – Lux- Environment embourg – Baldon- Council, Luxem- nel bourg Use of the government jet for my Department from March 2011 to February 2016 is set out in the following table:

Departure Date Return Date Route Purpose 20/06/2011 20/06/2011 Baldonnel – Northolt British Irish Council – Stansted – Baldon- Summit, Northolt nel Anni Podimata MEP (Socialists & Demo- crats) Vice Chair ITRE & Vice President EP Claude Turmes MEP (LU-Greens/European Free Alliance) & Rap- porteur EED Herbert Raul MEP (DE- EEP) & Chair ITRE Meeting Fiona Hall MEP (UK-ALDE) Leader and Shadow Rapporteur Energy Effi- ciency Directive (EED) 12/10/2011 13/10/2011 Baldonnel – Brussels Meeting Mr Anthony – Baldonnel Whelan, Head of Cabi- net of Commissioner Kroes (Digital Agenda) 22/06/2012 22/06/2012 Baldonnel – Edin- British Irish Council burgh – Cork – Bal- Summit, Edinburgh, donnel Scotland 03/10/2012 03/10/2012 Baldonnel – Brussels Meeting with Marita – Baldonnel Ulvskog & Commis- sioner Kroes, Brussels 20/12/2012 20/12/2012 Baldonnel – Brussels Telecoms Council, – Dublin Brussels 21/02/2013 22/02/2013 Baldonnel – Brussels Meeting with Jerzy – Baldonnel Buzek, Brussels 16/05/2013 17/05/2013 Baldonnel – Brussels EPC Policy Dialogue, – Baldonnel Brussels 26/06/2013 26/06/2013 Baldonnel – Brussels Financing & sustain- – Baldonnel able energy conference, Brussels

313 Questions - Written Answers Departure Date Return Date Route Purpose 28/01/2013 28/01/2013 Baldonnel – Brussels Smart grid standar- – Baldonnel disation achievements conference, Brussels 11/04/2013 11/04/2013 Baldonnel – Zurich – Lech energy forum, Baldonnel Austria 30/05/2013 30/05/2013 Baldonnel – Brussels European Broadcasting – Baldonnel Union Annual Confer- ence in Brussels 19/09/2013 20/09/2013 Baldonnel – Vilnius Informal meeting of En- – Baldonnel ergy Ministers, Latvia 08/04/2014 09/04/2014 Baldonnel – Northolt President Higgins state – Baldonnel visit with Queen, UK 13/06/2014 13/06/2014 Baldonnel – Luxem- Energy Council Meet- bourg – Baldonnel ing, Luxembourg 28/11/2014 28/11/2014 Baldonnel – Isle of British Irish Council Man – Baldonnel Summit, Isle of Mann 25/11/2015 26/11/2015 Baldonnel – Brussels Energy Council Meet- – Baldonnel ing, Brussels

Question No. 604 answered with Question No. 601.

Question No. 605 answered with Question No. 600.

14/12/2017WRRR00400Departmental Reports

14/12/2017WRRR00500606. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54255/17]

14/12/2017WRRR00600Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naugh- ten): My Department administers a very diverse, complex and technical brief across critical and strategic sectors of the Irish economy. While it has a total complement of around 388 full time equivalent staff of whom a number are technical personnel, the technical, commercial, legal complexity and evolving nature of sectors with which the Department deals requires access to external professional expertise to assist in discharging its functions. In procuring these specialised services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and that these services contribute to project delivery and informed, robust and evidence based policy making.

The bulk of the studies are technical and specialist in nature and were necessary to address specific issues as they arose and enable the Department to discharge its policy and project responsibilities in the areas concerned.

Details of external consultant reports commissioned by my Department since March 2011 are set out at the following link.

[[PQ606]

314 14 December 2017 ]

14/12/2017WRRR00700Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRRR00800607. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54271/17]

14/12/2017WRRR00900608. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54287/17]

14/12/2017WRRR01000Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 607 and 608 together.

In procuring these services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and keeping expenditure to the minimum necessary.

The information which the Deputy requested is outlined in the following table:

Expenditure 1 January 2017 to date in 2017

Company Name Photography Advertising Communications Purpose/Event/ Advice Campaign/Policy to which expenditure relates Mediavest €5,834 Press Advertise- ments for the Local Agenda 21/Local Environmental Partnership Fund MediaVest Ltd €6,336 Advertising for Public Consulta- tion on Clean Air Strategy

315 Questions - Written Answers

Company Name Photography Advertising Communications Purpose/Event/ Advice Campaign/Policy to which expenditure relates Ashville Media €12,300 Multi-page spread Group in magazine high- lighting environmental awards as part of Tidy Towns competition Iris Oifigiúil €31 Advertisement of Order designating events of major importance to society.(27th October 2017) (S.I. No. 465 of 2017). Iris Oifigiúil €106 Notice of appointments of Chairman and Ordinary Mem- ber to the Mining Board Mediavest €1,947 Advertising in National Newspa- pers to promote EU LIFE Information day. Danielle Coombs €65,608 Communications consultancy for Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) Mediavest Ltd €41,747 Provision of printed advertising services in relation to the Tellus programme Iris Oifigiuil €3,255 Advertising in relation to Statutory Matters Mediavest Ltd €8,984 Advertising in relation to Statutory Matters Andrew Fox pho- €450 Local Authority tography Broadband Officers NBP Workshop to highlight the:- An- nouncement of the eir 300k rural roll out Commitment Agreement- Launch of the updated High Speed Broadband Map Doggett Group €994 Brochures to be distributed at the National Ploughing Championship

316 14 December 2017

Company Name Photography Advertising Communications Purpose/Event/ Advice Campaign/Policy to which expenditure relates DoggettGroup €942 Brochures to be distributed at Local Authority Broad- band Officers NBP Workshop which was to highlight the:- Announce- ment of the eir 300k rural roll out Commitment Agreement with Minister Naughten- Launch of the updated High Speed Broadband Map Tony Harris Design €2693 Design of brochures to be distributed at the National Ploughing Championship Maxwell Photog- €499 Photo shoot to raphy highlight the NBP:- Announcement of the eir 300k rural roll out Commit- ment Agreement- Launch of the updated High Speed Broadband Map Maxwell Photog- €529 School Digital raphy Champion Pro- gramme – Show- case Event 13th May 2017. Cawley NEA/ €8,500 Trading Online TBWA Voucher Scheme PHD Media (Ire- €43,285 Trading Online land) Ltd Voucher Scheme Mediavest Ltd €44,744 Trading Online Voucher Scheme Independent News- €6,150 Trading Online papers Marketing Voucher Scheme Ltd* Mediavest €8,870 Publication of Public Notices in National Newspa- pers in respect of Petroleum Pros- pecting Licences (PPLs). Maxwell Photog- €120 IPCC Event raphy Maxwell Photog- €241 Forum on Food raphy Waste

317 Questions - Written Answers

Company Name Photography Advertising Communications Purpose/Event/ Advice Campaign/Policy to which expenditure relates Maxwell Photog- €482 LGFA Free to Air raphy Finals Maxwell Photog- €430 National Broadband raphy Launch Andrew Fox Pho- €200 Mobile Phone and tography Broadband Task- force Forum Marc O’ Sullivan €553 Advanced Mobile Photography Location Launch Impression Print €348 GPP4Growth Printing of Project Material Media Vest Limited €6,738 National News- papers adverts for Consultation on Draft National Mitigation Plan in mid- March 2017 Doggett Group €215 Cost of 2 Pull up Creative Media Stands for Tidy Towns Competi- tion (to promote Climate Change Award) April 2017; Pull Ups can be reused in future years; Clever Cat Design €664 Design of Tidy Towns Climate Change logo May 2017 Clever Cat Design €547 Production of 2,000 leaflets – Our Com- munity Climate Action Award / Tidy Towns Awards leaflet September 2017 Clever Cat Design €940 Production of 2,000 leaflets – Our Community Cli- mate Action Award / Tidy Towns Awards leaflet; Production of 500 Our Commu- nity Climate Action Awards / Clean Air Awards Winners Leaflets both for use at National Ploughing Champi- onships- September 2017

318 14 December 2017

Company Name Photography Advertising Communications Purpose/Event/ Advice Campaign/Policy to which expenditure relates Doggett Group €98 Production of 1Pull Creative Media Up stand ‘Everyday Power Use’ for use at National Plough- ing Championships; can be reused in future; Tony Harris Design €405 Production of 1Pull / Green Room Up stand ‘What’s Media a Watt’ for use at National Ploughing Championships; can be reused in future; Mediavest €5842 Advertising the Public consultation of the National Adaptation Frame- work OPW Iris Oifigiuil €42 Payment for Notice in Iris Oifigiuil of making of Statutory Instrument relating to the Fuel Quality Directive May 2017 Limerick City & €668,878 Grant to Regional County Council Waste Management Offices in relation to expenditure on Household Waste Awareness Cam- paign Dublin City Coun- €133,860 Grant to Regional cil Waste Management Offices in relation to expenditure on Household Waste Awareness Cam- paign PHD Media (Ire- €342,978 Provision of ser- land) Ltd vices in relation to Household Waste Awareness Cam- paign Mac Innes Photog- €51 Headshots for who- raphy doeswhat.gov.ie Facebook €22 Trading Online Voucher Scheme Regional Event *In addition to the Independent Newspapers figure there was an additional payment in Janu- ary for work done the previous year for €3,075.

319 Questions - Written Answers

Company Name Public Relations Website Develop- Media Interview Purpose/Event/ ment Training and Prepa- Campaign/Policy to ration which expenditure relates Morrow Communi- €36,962 Provision of ser- cations Ltd vices in relation to outreach in rural communities with respect to the Tellus low flying geophysical survey and soil geochemical survey Mandy Johnson €7,200 €1,500 Provision of ser- Communications vices in relation to Household Waste Awareness Cam- paign Focus Advertising €15,855 Provision of services in relation to Household Waste Awareness Cam- paign Limerick City & €1,751 Grant to Regional County Council Waste Management Offices in relation to expenditure on Household Waste Awareness Cam- paign Storm Technology €91,382 DCCAE Website Update Storm Technology €33,265 GSI Website Rede- sign ELM Solutions €13,195 GSI Shop

14/12/2017WRRR01100Wild Atlantic Way Project

14/12/2017WRRR01200609. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress as provided under the programme for Government on €100 million capital investment in the Wild Atlantic Way and greenways; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53714/17]

14/12/2017WRRR01300Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Brendan Griffin): The Programme for Government provides that the Government will set aside €100 million in additional capital funding for investment in the Wild Atlantic Way, Greenways and a number of other initiatives. This commitment covers a number of funding programmes and

Departments.

Following from the mid-term review of the Capital Plan, an amount of almost €108 million is being provided for tourism product development in the period from 2018 to 2021. This allocation will provide for continued capital investment by Fáilte Ireland in their experience brands, including the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East. It will also enable Fáilte Ireland to commence work on the development of a brand for the Midlands region as a separate proposition to sit alongside the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East.

320 14 December 2017 In relation to the Wild Atlantic Way, my Department’s role in relation to tourism lies in the area of national tourism policy. It is not directly involved in the management or development of individual tourism projects, which are operational matters for Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority.

In relation to Greenways, almost €56 million will be provided for investment in greenways in the period from 2018 to 2021. My Department is currently developing a strategy for the future development of greenways. The strategy will provide a long term vision and framework upon which Ireland’s greenways can be planned in a strategic manner ensuring the best possible return for State investment.

14/12/2017WRRR01400Regional Airports

14/12/2017WRRR01500610. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress as provided under the programme for Government on €10 million in additional funding for regional airports; the capital expenditure that has been allocated in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53715/17]

14/12/2017WRRR01600Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The National Avia- tion Policy, published by my Department in 2015, acknowledges the role played by the regional airports of Donegal, Ireland West Airport Knock, Kerry and Waterford as being important in promoting a level of international connectivity to support the tourism and business sectors in their regions.

In this regard I am pleased to inform the Deputy that as part of the Review of the Capi- tal Plan that was carried out by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, my Depart- ment secured over €17 million in additional capital funding for the Regional Airports Pro- gramme in recognition of this role. These additional resources will be available in the period 2019 to 2021 and are considerably in excess of the €10 million in extra Capital Plan funding that was originally envisaged in the Programme for Government.

Capital funding of €1.9m has been allocated in 2017 and will be paid to the regional airports in the current year.

14/12/2017WRRR01700Rail Network Expansion

14/12/2017WRRR01800611. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress as provided under the programme for Government on review of the western rail corridor phase two between Athenry and Claremorris for passenger and freight use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53716/17]

14/12/2017WRRR01900Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Programme for a Partnership Government includes a commitment to provide for an independent costing and review of the Western Rail Corridor Phase Two between Athenry and Claremorris for passenger and freight use. It also commits that no measures will be taken to prevent the future reactivation of the Western Rail Corridor for rail use.

The costing and review has not been undertaken but the Deputy will be aware that a number of wider processes underway that are being advanced first as they are highly relevant to the general rail environment.

Firstly, around this time last year, the National Transport Authority (NTA) held a public 321 Questions - Written Answers consultation process to start a national debate on the current and future role of rail transport in Ireland. The public consultation process was launched with the publication of the Rail Review Report 2016, which examined the funding required to support the heavy rail network now and into the future, together with a consultation document “The Role of Rail in Ireland and Funding its Delivery”. Over 300 submissions were received by the NTA in response to that consultation process which have now all been examined and the NTA has submitted a report of those submissions which - when updated to reflect the increased Exchequer funding now being made available for rail services and infrastructure - I intend to bring to Government, and expect to be published shortly thereafter.

Secondly, on a broader front, the Government is at an advanced stage on the finalisation of the National Planning Framework which has been developed under the leadership of my colleague the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government. Once agreed by Gov- ernment, the approach which that Framework adopts toward land-use planning and settlement patterns for the country will have significant impacts on the potential of rail and other transport infrastructure and services into the future.

14/12/2017WRRR02000EU Funding

14/12/2017WRRR02100612. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress as provided under the programme for Government on TEN-T transport funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53719/17]

14/12/2017WRRR02200Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Under the Programme for Partnership Government, the Government committed to applying to the European Union for the revision of the TEN-T Core Network, including in relation to the Western Arc. A submission is being prepared for the European Commission for a revision of the TEN-T Core Network, which would seek to facilitate consideration of transport-related project proposals for funding under the Connecting Europe Facility for transport in the Western Arc region. The submission will also take into account the implications of Brexit on western and northwest regions.

My officials met the European Commissioner for Transport, Ms Violeta Bulc, and her officials in October 2017 in relation to transport issues, including the potential impacts of Brex- it on Ireland’s connectivity and increased geographical isolation in the EU. In that context, my officials informed the Commissioner that a submission will be forthcoming. My officials also separately met with the Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE) last month and briefed DG Move on the Government’s commitment and on the pending submission. DG Move advised that the submission would be considered on receipt but did not see that the Western Arc would meet the criteria for the Core Network. However, it noted that under the Regulation, a review of the implementation of the core network will take place by end 2023.

14/12/2017WRRR02300Rural Transport Services

14/12/2017WRRR02400613. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress as provided under the programme for Government on capital budget for local and regional roads and the commitment to increase this budget by approximately 50%; the capital expenditure that has been allocated for 2016 and 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53720/17]

14/12/2017WRRR02500Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of the local authority, in 322 14 December 2017 accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from the local authority’s own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.

The Capital Plan published in September 2015 outlined proposed transport investment priorities to 2022. The transport element of the plan was framed by the conclusions reached in my Department’s Strategic Investment Framework for Land Transport. This report highlighted the importance of maintenance and renewal of transport infrastructure together with targeted investments to address particular bottlenecks and critical safety issues. The bulk of the funding allocated under the Capital Plan and the increased funding allocated under the Capital Plan Review is earmarked for the maintenance and strengthening of the existing extensive network throughout the country together with some targeted road improvement projects.

The Plan provides for the phased increase in capital funding and in this context 2018 will see a significant increase in funding for regional and local roads. Capital expenditure for 2016 and the allocation for 2017 is included in the Regional and Local Road payment and allocation booklets which are available in the Dáil Library. The expenditure figure for 2016 of €331.5 million includes the extra funding allocated by Government to assist local authorities with road repairs resulting from damage caused by severe weather in late 2015 and early 2016. It is envisaged that the 2017 allocation of €280.6 million will increase by about €100 million (including €10 million to assist Donegal County Council with road repairs caused by the severe weather in August 2017) in 2018.

14/12/2017WRRR02600Rural Transport Services Provision

14/12/2017WRRR02700614. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress as provided under the programme for Government on rural transport and the commitment that a report will be provided to the relevant Oireachtas committee within six months examining the way in which existing routes can be made more sustainable and accessible to the public and the potential for new routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53721/17]

14/12/2017WRRR02800Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): In recognition of the value and benefit of rural transport to many communities, the Programme for a Partnership Government undertakes to examine how best to improve integration of services in the rural bus network within regions, and proposed that a report about this should be provided to the relevant Oireachtas Committee. This matter is being examined and developed by my Department in the context of the wider work on which it is now embarking around review of public transport policy, which is another commitment in the Programme for Government.

The Department’s work is drawing on input that has been provided by the National Trans- port Authority (NTA) - the agency with responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including management of the Rural Transport Programme (that now operates under the “Local Link” brand) - in relation to the role and operation of the Local Link services in connecting rural dwellers to facilities and services in their area, and the potential for the future.

Finally, the Deputy is probably aware that, in recent days, the Joint Committee on Rural and Community Development - which is one of the Committees with an interest in this area - has written to ask about progress on the Programme for Government commitment about rural transport; I expect to respond to the Committee on that very shortly.

14/12/2017WRRR02900Sports Events

323 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRRR03000615. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if discussions were held between his Department and the FAI regarding the possibility of bidding for the extra games in Euro 2020 after Brussels lost the right to host matches for the tournament; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53523/17]

14/12/2017WRRR03100Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): In partnership with the FAI and Dublin City Council, my Department continues to actively support the planning to host three group games and one second round game as part of the the EURO 2020 Champion- ships in Dublin in June 2020.

In regard to the recent re-allocation of the EURO 2020 matches originally awarded to Brus- sels, it is my understanding that the FAI was not in a position to bid for these games. The decision to re-allocate the Brussels matches was taken by UEFA’s Executive Committee and the cities considered were either not allocated games in the original bid process i.e. Stockholm and Cardiff or were existing host cities not already staging group games i.e. London. Cities already hosting group games, including Dublin, were not invited to submit an application. Accordingly, no discussions regarding bidding for these games were held between the Department and the FAI.

14/12/2017WRSS00200Sport Ireland

14/12/2017WRSS00300616. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if officials from his Department have studied the Australian Institute of Sport; his plans to fund something similar to exceed the State’s goals in sporting tournaments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53524/17]

14/12/2017WRSS00400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Sport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards.

Sport Ireland, through the National Sports Campus, and the high performance facilities at the Sport Ireland Institute, plays a major role in the preparation of athletes for international competition. Sport Ireland Institute delivers world class support to high performance athletes and is expert in the approaches taken by various similar high performance institutes around the world.

As this is a matter for Sport Ireland and the Sport Ireland Institute, I have referred the Dep- uty’s questions to Sport Ireland for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to inform my office if a reply is not received within ten days.

14/12/2017WRSS00500Bus Services

14/12/2017WRSS00600617. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding a bus stop. [53557/17]

14/12/2017WRSS00700Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The National Trans- port Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing or providing public transport in the State in relation to bus stops, bus shelters, bus stations, bus stands and bus fleets.

Noting the NTA’s responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the Authority for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days. 324 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRSS00800Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRSS00900618. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53575/17]

14/12/2017WRSS01000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The information requested by the Deputy is being collated and will be forwarded to him within ten working days.

14/12/2017WRSS01100Ports Facilities

14/12/2017WRSS01200619. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will include two fishing ports (details supplied) in the list of merchant shipping registry of ports here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53599/17]

14/12/2017WRSS01300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Ship registration is currently governed by the Mercantile Marine 1955, as amended. Section 32(2) of that Act provides that the Minister may by order, after consultation with the Revenue Commissioners, amend the list of ports of registry mentioned in the Second Schedule to the Act.

The Merchant Shipping (Registration of Ships) Act 2014, while not yet commenced, provides a basis for the establishment of an updated and modernised ship registration system in Ireland, replacing the 1955 Act. The list of ports of registry contained in Schedule 3 of the 2014 Act is the same as those designated under the 1955 Act.

Section 30 of the 2014 Act will allow changes to the list of ports of registry subject to a number of considerations:

- the demand that exists for the port to be a port of registry,

- the importance of the location for commercial shipping traffic or business, fishing, recreational or other maritime activity,

- the geographical location of the port, and

- the level of maritime activity with regard to shipping at the port.

When the new central Irish Register of Ships and modernised ship registration system are in place and the 2014 Act is commenced, I will be open to considering any case for a particular port that is made to me on the basis of the framework set out in the Act. Until such a time however, I do not propose to amend the list of ports of registry.

14/12/2017WRSS01400Railway Stations

14/12/2017WRSS01500620. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if Castle- bar train station is to become an unmanned station; and if so, the date of same. [53606/17]

14/12/2017WRSS01600621. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the staffing levels at Castlebar train station; his plans to reduce staff numbers; and the staff positions that will be made redundant. [53607/17]

14/12/2017WRSS01700622. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans 325 Questions - Written Answers to remove the station manager from Castlebar train station. [53608/17]

14/12/2017WRSS01800Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I propose to take Questions Nos. 620 to 622, inclusive, together.

The issue raised is a matter for Iarnród Éireann and I have forwarded the Deputy’s question to the Company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

14/12/2017WRSS01900Roadworthiness Testing

14/12/2017WRSS02000623. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to extend a scheme to include a new category (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53623/17]

14/12/2017WRSS02100Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Under a new Road- worthiness Directive, 2014/45/EU, published in 2014, motorcycles, motorcycles with sidecar, motortricycles and heavy quadricycles with an engine displacement of more than 125 cm3 will be required to be roadworthiness tested from 1 January 2022. However, the Directive allows that where a Member State has effective alternative road safety measures in place for such vehicles, an exemption to this requirement may apply.

If the testing of motorcycles was to be introduced it would have to be under national legislation following consultation with the public and stakeholders. There is no doubt that motorcyclists are one of the more vulnerable groups of road users and an on-going area of concern is the behaviour displayed by and shown towards motorcyclists.

While any measures which have a positive effect on road safety are to be welcomed, it is important that we achieve the optimum road safety measures at the best cost and least administrative burden on industry and vehicle owners. The RSA will examine the requirements of the Directive in due course.

14/12/2017WRSS02200Road Safety

14/12/2017WRSS02300624. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he is taking to develop a vision zero policy toward road traffic fatalities and serious injuries and to meet the target reductions in these casualties proposed by 2020 at the recent World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53908/17]

14/12/2017WRSS02400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): After the joint safest year on record, 2015, when 162 deaths were recorded, there was a sharp rise in road fatalities last year. I tasked all stakeholders to make every effort to reverse this trend during 2017 including through increased frequency of meetings of the Ministerial Committee on Road Safety to once every second months instead of twice yearly. Thankfully, as a result of the increased efforts by all, road deaths have decreased this year, and 2017 may be our lowest year for road deaths ever.

The Road Safety Strategy 2013 to 2020 identifies 144 actions which are designed to make our roads safer for all users, with a target of no more than 124 deaths on our roads by 2020. I have recently approved the mid-term review of the Road Safety Strategy, which included bringing together all of the major stakeholders, including the Road Safety Authority, my Depart- 326 14 December 2017 ment, an Garda Síochána, the Medical Bureau of Road Safety, the Health and Safety Authority and others, to ensure that all actions were still relevant and fit for purpose, and to identify any new priorities which may have arisen since 2013. Flowing from that review I am committed to enhancing interventions to address the main killer behaviours on our roads, with stricter penalties for non-compliance and targeted visible enforcement.

In that context, I am delighted by the announcement that the number of Gardaí assigned to roads policing will increase by 10% to the end of 2017, and a further 10% next year. I believe that robust enforcement of the road traffic laws is key to reducing road deaths.

However, every death is one too many, and we must continue our efforts to reduce the number of people killed on our roads. Regrettably, the four main causes of road deaths remain speeding, drink driving, using a mobile phone and not wearing a seatbelt, so all road users must take personal responsibility for our behaviour in order to make the road safer for all users.

14/12/2017WRSS02500Sports Capital Programme

14/12/2017WRSS02600625. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to launch a new sports capital programme in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54063/17]

14/12/2017WRSS02700Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Bren- dan Griffin): The 2017 round of the Sports Capital Programme closed for applications on the 24th February. By the closing date, a record number of 2,320 applications seeking €155 million in grants were received. When the programme was launched, it was envisaged that €30m would be available which would have made the allocation of grants particularly challenging. Following the conclusion of the budget discussions and in order to allow as many worthwhile projects as possible to receive some funding, significant extra resources were secured to allocate under the round.

The allocations in respect of all local applications were announced on Thursday 30th No- vember and full details of these allocations are available on my Department’s website. The priority in the medium term will be on advancing these projects. A decision on the timing of the next round of the programme will be taken next year and all clubs and sports organisations registered with my Department will be informed at the time.

14/12/2017WRSS02800Local Improvement Scheme Funding

14/12/2017WRSS02900626. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to increase funding available to the local improvement scheme programme; and the cost of restoring the programme to pre-2012 levels. [54092/17]

14/12/2017WRSS03000630. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to increase funding available to the local improvement scheme programme; and the cost of restoring the programme to pre-2012 levels. [54096/17]

14/12/2017WRSS03100Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I propose to take Questions Nos. 626 and 630 together.

Due to the major cutbacks in roads funding resulting from the financial crisis it was necessary for my Department to cease making separate allocations to local authorities in respect of the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) in 2012. No provision was made for LIS in 2012. Since 327 Questions - Written Answers 2013 local authorities have had the option of using a proportion of their Discretionary Grant for LIS should they wish to do so. The decision on whether to allocate funding for LIS and the management of the allocation process has been a matter for each local authority.

Details of LIS allocations before 2012 are included in the Regional and Local Road Grant Payment booklets which are available in the Dáil Library.

Minister Ring’s Department is now taking the lead regarding the LIS having launched a scheme in September 2017 and I understand further funding will be allocated by that Depart- ment in 2018.

14/12/2017WRSS03200Park and Ride Facilities

14/12/2017WRSS03300627. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the estimated number of persons that avail of parking at park and ride facilities at all rail stations on a daily basis. [54093/17]

14/12/2017WRSS03400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The issue raised is a matter for Iarnród Éireann and I have forwarded the Deputy’s question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

14/12/2017WRSS03500Departmental Funding

14/12/2017WRSS03600628. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding that has been allocated by his Department in 2018 for the introduction of variable speed limits on the M50. [54094/17]

14/12/2017WRSS03700Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for TII in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.

Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to TII for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within ten working days.

14/12/2017WRTT00200Coast Guard Services

14/12/2017WRTT00300629. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount of funding that has been provided to the Coast Guard each year since 2000. [54095/17]

14/12/2017WRTT00400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Irish Coast Guard transferred to the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport from the Department of the Ma- rine in 2006. I have provided the funding figures from 2007 onwards.

The following funding figures are inclusive of both capital and current allocations.

328 14 December 2017 Year Irish Coast Guard Funding (€’000) 2017 71,485 2016 70,085 2015 66,865 2014 69,762 2013 70,683 2012 48,026 2011 51,083 2010 40,743 2009 38,143 2008 36,388 2007 32102

Question No. 630 answered with Question No. 626.

14/12/2017WRTT00600Departmental Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRTT00700631. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount of funding his Department has spent on external consultancy contracts in 2017. [54097/17]

14/12/2017WRTT00800632. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department per annum since coming into office, in tabular form; the external public relations firms used; the internal departmental policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54098/17]

14/12/2017WRTT00900639. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firms; the internal department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54251/17]

14/12/2017WRTT01000640. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54267/17]

14/12/2017WRTT01100642. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54299/17]

14/12/2017WRTT01200Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I propose to take Questions Nos. 631, 632, 639, 640 and 642 together.

The information requested by the Deputy is available on my Department’s website at the following link: http://www.dttas.ie/corporate/english/expenditure-external-services.

A separate index of photography costs is provided at: http://www.dttas.ie/corporate/english/ photography-costs.

329 Questions - Written Answers It is the policy of my Department in the exercise of its functions to use internal resources as far as possible. External service providers are hired occasionally in circumstances where particular expertise is not available internally or where it is otherwise deemed to add value or independence to the work of the Department.

14/12/2017WRTT01300Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRTT01400633. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the total photography costs per annum for his Department since coming to office, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance, in tabular form; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the breakdown of costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54099/17]

14/12/2017WRTT01500638. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54235/17]

14/12/2017WRTT01600Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I propose to take Questions Nos. 633 and 638 together.

Details of photography costs paid from the Department’s voted funds are published on the Department’s website: http://www.dttas.ie/corporate/english/photography-costs.

These costs are updated and published on a 6 monthly basis, and details for July to Decem- ber 2017 will therefore be published very shortly.

It is the policy of the Department that photography costs are kept to a minimum and services are provided in-house by staff. Where services are contracted, best value is sought and a number of quotes are obtained. Services are contracted out on an exceptional basis only.

14/12/2017WRTT01700Driver Test

14/12/2017WRTT01800634. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the 2014 Road Safety Authority review of the driver test; the steps that have been taken to implement it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54145/17]

14/12/2017WRTT01900Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): This is a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I have referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.

14/12/2017WRTT02000Road Projects Status

14/12/2017WRTT02100635. Deputy Declan Breathnach asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the available options for the completion of the Narrow Water bridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54150/17]

330 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRTT02200Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Options are still being appraised in accordance with the terms of the Fresh Start Agreement in relation to the proposed bridge at Narrow Water, with a view to the relevant Government departments in the two jurisdictions drawing up a joint paper for consideration by relevant stakeholders.

14/12/2017WRTT02300Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRTT02400636. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54203/17]

14/12/2017WRTT02500Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The information is in the following table.

Date Flight Details Passengers 25/09/2017 Dublin – London Taoiseach + MTTAS 2016 Nil Nil

14/12/2017WRTT02600Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRTT02700637. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the use his Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54219/17]

14/12/2017WRTT02800Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): It is my Department’s policy to use regular scheduled flights for official business whenever possible, in accordance with relevant applicable guidelines.

However, there have been occasions over the period in question when use of the Govern- ment jet was warranted and relevant flight details of those 7 trips are provided in the following table.

Date Flight Details Passengers 2016 Nil Nil 8/10/15 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel M/Transport, Tourism and Sport MoS for D/ Foreign AffairsOfficials x 4 7/10/15 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel M/Transport, Tourism and Sport Officials x 4 11/6/15 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel M/Transport, Tourism and SportOfficials x 3 5/6/14 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel An TánaisteM/Transport, Tourism and Sport- Officials x 9 10/10/13 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel M/Transport, Tourism and SportOfficials x 4 9/6/13 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel M/Transport, Tourism and SportOfficials x 4 3/10/12 Baldonnel – Luxembourg – Baldonnel An TaoiseachAn TánaisteM/ Transport, Tour- ism and SportMinisters x 6MoS x 9

Question No. 638 answered with Question No. 633.

Questions Nos. 639 and 640 answered with Question No. 631.

14/12/2017WRTT03100Departmental Advertising Expenditure 331 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRTT03200641. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Gov- ernment information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54283/17]

14/12/2017WRTT03300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The information for the first six months of 2017 is available on my Department’s website at the following link http://www.dttas.ie/corporate/english/expenditure-external-services. The information is updated twice yearly; the second half of 2017 will be available in early 2018.

Question No. 642 answered with Question No. 631

14/12/2017WRTT03500UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

14/12/2017WRTT03600643. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when Ireland will ratify the second optional protocol of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child; and the legal reason Ireland has not done so. [53518/17]

14/12/2017WRTT03700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): My Department is working with the Department of Justice and Equality to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place to fully comply with the provisions of the Second Optional Protocol on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography so that Ireland can ratify the Optional Protocol as soon as possible.

The recent enactment of the Sexual Offence Act (2017) constituted a key step on the pathway to ratification as the Act contains a wide range of provisions that will enhance the protection of children and vulnerable persons from sexual abuse and exploitation.

Considerable provisions exist in Irish law to combat the sexual abuse or exploitation of children, including ensuring the necessary flow of information to the relevant authorities about child abuse. The substantive criminal law elements of the Optional Protocol have largely been implemented by the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998 and the Criminal Law (Hu- man Trafficking) Act 2008.

The Criminal Justice (Withholding of Information on Offences Against Children and Vul- nerable Persons) Act 2012, makes it an offence to withhold information relating to the commission of certain arrestable offences (including certain sexual offences) against children. Other relevant legislation in the area of reporting is the Protections for Persons Reporting Child Abuse Act 1998 and the Children First Act 2015.

14/12/2017WRUU00200Education Welfare Service Staff

14/12/2017WRUU00300644. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the fact that each educational welfare officer is assigned to an average of 50 schools; her plans to tackle this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51918/17]

14/12/2017WRUU00400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): My Department has requested a reply from the Educational Welfare Service of Tusla to your question, we will forward the answer directly to you as soon as it becomes available. 332 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRUU00500UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

14/12/2017WRUU00600645. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to ratify the optional protocol to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53549/17]

14/12/2017WRUU00700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): My Department is working with the Department of Justice and Equality to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place to fully comply with the provisions of the Second Optional Protocol on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography so that Ireland can ratify the Optional Protocol as soon as possible.

14/12/2017WRUU00800Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRUU00900646. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within her area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53562/17]

14/12/2017WRUU01000Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): My Depart- ment has responsibility for the following Acts, or parts of Acts, which have yet to be fully commenced, Youth Work Act 2001, the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011, the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2015, the Children (Amendment) Act 2015 and the Adoption (Amendment) Act 2017.

Youth Work Act 2001

The sections of the Youth Work Act 2001 yet to be commenced are sections 8 to 16, 19 to 23 and 25 to 37.

Since the enactment of the Youth Work Act in 2001 there have been significant policy and legislative developments that are relevant to the provision of youth services. These include the publication of the Value for Money and Policy Review of Youth Funding Schemes and the Na- tional Youth Strategy 2015-2020. Given the considerable changes which have occurred since its enactment, my Department will be revisiting the Youth Work Act 2001 on the conclusion of the reforms in this area. 333 Questions - Written Answers Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011

Commencement orders for the relevant provisions in the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011, to provide for a legal framework for Special Care are being finalised in conjunction with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. Associated Regulations (governing registration of special care units and the care and welfare to be provided in such units) and standards have been agreed with HIQA and Tusla. Following some delays related to legal issues, which required clarification, it is anticipated that these provisions will be commenced in January.

A number of related technical provisions in the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2015 will also be commenced at this time.

Section 13 of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011 is not commenced. Section 13 of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011 relates to amendments proposed to section 26 of the 1991 Act (Guardians ad litem) and these amendments which have not commenced will not now be required as they are being replaced more extensively by provisions in the Child Care (Amend- ment) Bill 2017.

It is not intended to make a commencement order as this Section will be repealed under the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2017.

Section 14(b) of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011 is not commenced. This section proposes to amend section 27 to clarify that a reference in that section to a ‘party’ includes a reference to a GAL (section 14(b) of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011.

The General Scheme of the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2017 clarifies that a Guardian ad litem will not have party status. The amendment proposed by section 14(b) of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011 is not, therefore, consistent with the proposed policy direction. It is not intended to make a commencement order as this Section will be repealed under the Child Care (Amendment) Bill 2017.

Children (Amendment) Act 2015

Sections 6 (as it relates to section 88B), 8, 9, 10, 16, 18, 19, 26 of the Children (Amend- ment) Act 2015 remain to be commenced. These relate to the introduction of a new system of remission in the children detention schools and a technical issue relating to the operation of the Children Court on the issuing of detention orders under the Children Act 2001. An interim arrangement is in place to provide for the remission of children detention orders. It is intended that the relevant sections of the Children (Amendment) Act 2015 dealing with remission and the issuing of detention orders will be commenced in 2018.

Adoption (Amendment) Act 2017

The following provisions of the Adoption (Amendment) Act 2017 have not yet been commenced as follows:

Section 3(a) insofar as that section relates to the insertion of the following in section 3(1) of the Principal Act: (i) the definition of “donor-conceived child”; (ii) the definition of “father”; (iii) paragraph (b) of the definition of “relevant non-guardian”.

Section 3(b) insofar as that section relates to the insertion of paragraph (b) in the definition of “parent” in section 3(1) of the Principal Act. These provide for definitions related to Part 2 and Part 3 of the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015, which have not yet been commenced.

334 14 December 2017 Section 24(1)(a) will come in to operation on the 1st February 2018.

14/12/2017WRUU01100Early Childhood Care and Education

14/12/2017WRUU01200647. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her long-term plans with regard to the ECCE scheme; if a decision on the over age exemption from the early childhood care and education scheme will be reversed and not just paused; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53625/17]

14/12/2017WRUU01300661. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the opening date of the consultation on the over age exemption in the ECCE programme; the closing date; and the date by which her Department will make a decision on the future of the over age exemption. [54075/17]

14/12/2017WRUU01400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I propose to take Questions Nos. 647 and 661 together.

I have committed to consulting further with parents of children with disabilities before a decision is made on the future of the over-age exemption for the ECCE scheme.

My officials are working closely with the Department of Education and Skills in designing the consultation and also taking advice from the Cross Sectoral Implementation Group (CSIG) of the Access and Inclusion Model (AIM). CSIG includes senior officials from the Department of Education and Skills, National Council for Special Education, National Disability Authority, City/Community Childcare Committees, Pobal and representatives of parents of children with disabilities and Early Years providers.

I will publish details of the consultation when available and am committed to having it completed by mid 2018.

The decision on a pause in the change to the scheme as against a reversal will be made in the context of the outcome of the consultation exercise. In this regard however I feel it is worthwhile to set out the original rationale for the decision. Overage exemptions were introduced at the onset of the ECCE programme. At that time only operated for a 38 week period, or one programme year. For some children with special/additional needs, attending preschool five days a week was not feasible and so therefore an allowance was made. Their ECCE place was split over 2 years, e.g. a child may have availed of 3 days ECCE provision in year one and 2 days in year 2. In order to facilitate this, in the cases where the child would have been overage for ECCE in the latter year, an overage exemption was approved. This provision of an overage exemption by the DCYA for the ECCE programme was never intended as a mechanism to delay a child’s entry to primary education. Given the extension of the ECCE programme in 2016/2017, the further extension of the Programme to two full years from September 2018, and the introduction of AIM in June 2016, it became clear that standard ECCE entitlement had surpassed the initial premise for provision of an overage exemption from the upper age limit.

AIM is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with disabilities can access the early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme. The AIM Early Years Specialists will work with the parents (and guardians), providers, Special Education Needs Organisers (SENOs) and others (as appropriate) to support the child’s transition to primary school. Any concerns with regard to a child’s transition to primary school should be referred to the Better Start Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) application process. Parents, guardians and providers are advised to engage with the AIM process where a concern in relations to a child’s transition to primary school is identified. More detailed information on AIM can be found at www.pre- 335 Questions - Written Answers schoolaccess.ie. The Department of Education and Skill (DES) also provides for the education of children with special educational needs through a number of support mechanisms, depending on the child’s assessed disability.

As regards long term plans for the ECCE scheme, the further enhancements announced as part of Budget 2018 meet the commitment in the Programme for Government to provide a full two year programme to all children. Any further alterations to the scheme will be considered in the context of future Estimates processes and, critically, an assessment of what is in the best interests of children. The consultation to take place around overage exemptions will, of course, form part of the ongoing assessment.

14/12/2017WRUU01500Domestic Violence

14/12/2017WRUU01600648. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to improve services and provide additional facilities in counties Cavan and Monaghan for victims of domestic abuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53897/17]

14/12/2017WRUU01700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has statutory responsibility for the provision of care and protection to victims of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. I have requested information from Tusla in relation to this matter. I will revert to the Deputy once I have been furnished with a response by Tusla.

14/12/2017WRUU01800Child Care Services

14/12/2017WRUU01900649. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the status of discussions between her Department and the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Gov- ernment regarding the disparity of treatment in respect of the application of commercial rates to private early services that provide full day services or after-school services and have to pay full commercial rates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54013/17]

14/12/2017WRUU02000Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Firstly, I would note that the Department of Children and Youth Affairs has no function in determining which properties are rateable. This is the responsibility of the Commissioner of Valuation. The Valu- ation Office falls under the aegis of the Department of Justice and Equality.

The Valuation Act, 2001 as amended by the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015 provides that all buildings used or developed for any purpose, including constructions affixed thereto, are rateable unless expressly exempted under Schedule 4 of the Act. Under Schedule 4, paragraph 22, community childcare facilities are exempt from commercial rates, by virtue of the fact that they operate on a not-for-profit basis. The Valuations Office have also advised that, under Schedule 4 paragraph 10, facilities who provide the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme (ECCE) only are exempt from commercial rates.

Officials from the Department met with officials from the Department of Justice and Equal- ity to discuss the issue of commercial rates for childcare providers. At this meeting it was reit- erated that properties of occupiers that operate with the intention of making a profit are rateable, and that this applies to private childcare facilities.

It is my understanding that there are a number of avenues of redress for an occupier of rateable property who is dissatisfied with a determination of valuation made under the provisions

336 14 December 2017 of the Valuation Acts, 2001-2015. However, as noted earlier any issues concerning commercial rates do not fall under the remit of this Department. I would advise those with concerns to contact the Valuations Office who would be better placed to advise in this regard.

14/12/2017WRUU02100School Completion Programme

14/12/2017WRUU02200650. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the amount of funding provided to the school completion programme in 2017; and the amount budgeted for 2018. [54064/17]

14/12/2017WRUU02300655. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the amount of funding provided to the school completion programme in 2017; and the amount budgeted for 2018. [54069/17]

14/12/2017WRUU02400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I propose to take Questions Nos. 650 and 655 together.

The Educational Welfare Service of Tusla has advised that the School Completion Pro- gramme received €24.7m in funding in 2017. It has also advised that confirmation of the allocation for 2018 will be confirmed following the completion of the 2018 business planning process in Tusla.

14/12/2017WRUU02500School Completion Programme

14/12/2017WRUU02600651. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of schools that have availed of the school completion programme each year since 2011. [54065/17]

14/12/2017WRUU02700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): A total of 470 primary and 224 post-primary schools have been included in the School Completion Programme per year from 2011 to the current year. The number of schools has been the same each year.

The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the following table.

Year Total No. Primary Schools Total No. Post-primary in SCP Schools in SCP 2011 224 470 2012 224 470 2013 224 470 2014 224 470 2015 224 470 2016 224 470 2017 224 470

14/12/2017WRUU02800Family Resource Centres

14/12/2017WRUU02900652. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the amount of funding provided to the family resource centre network in 2017; and the amount budgeted for 2018. [54066/17]

337 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRUU03000653. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the amount of funding provided to the family resource centres in 2017; and the total amount budgeted for 2018. [54067/17]

14/12/2017WRUU03100Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I propose to take Questions Nos. 652 and 653 together.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency is responsible for the administration of the Family Re- source Centre Programme. In 2017, Tusla allocated €13.51m to the programme. In addition, supplementary once off funding of €2.120m has been allocated recently to centres for minor works, including the purchase of equipment. In 2018, I am pleased to advise the Deputy that an additional €3.0m is being allocated to the programme, increasing the base budget to approximately €16.5m.

I understand that the Deputy is seeking additional information relating to the individual allocation provided to each Family Resource Centre in 2017, as well as the projected budget for each centre in 2018.

I have asked Tusla to supply such information to the Deputy, as soon as it is available.

14/12/2017WRUU03200Family Resource Centres

14/12/2017WRUU03300654. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her expansion plans for the family resource centre network; and the counties in which she plans to establish new family resource centres. [54068/17]

14/12/2017WRUU03400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I am placing a strong emphasis on family support services next year, and the development of capacity within the Family Resource Centre Programme.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency currently allocates funding to 109 Family Resource Centres. This funding provides a contribution towards the running costs of centres.

In 2018, I am providing Tusla with additional funding of almost €3.0m for the Family Resource Centre Programme. This will allow for at least 11 new centres to be included in the Programme and also provides for increases in funding to existing centres next year.

I am doing this in recognition of the importance of early intervention and prevention in assisting vulnerable children and families in our local communities.

Tusla has put an application process in place for organisations seeking to join the Family Resource Centre programme. The closing date for applications is 20 December 2017. The application form is available on the Tusla website www.tusla.ie .

Decisions by Tusla in relation to the funding of individual centres will have regard to the location, size and catchment area of each centre. The process will be equitable and transparent. All decisions will be made to ensure that available resources are applied to improving outcomes for children and families nationally in the most efficient, effective, equitable, proportionate and sustainable way. Tusla will also consider Area Commissioning Plans, Children and Young People’s Service Committee plans, and other available evidence, to ensure that the allocated funding targets those children and families that are most in need.

Tusla intends to announce the results of the process by the end of Quarter 1, 2018.

338 14 December 2017 In conclusion, I would like to acknowledge the valuable work of Family Resource Centres. I am pleased that I have secured additional resources to support them in their work with vulnerable children and families in our local communities.

Question No. 655 answered with Question No. 650.

14/12/2017WRVV00300Social Workers Recruitment

14/12/2017WRVV00400656. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the cost of hiring an additional social care worker. [54070/17]

14/12/2017WRVV00500Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Tusla has advised me of the cost of hiring a social care worker and this is set out in the following table:

Basic Pay PRSI Total Pay Non Pay Total Cost €38,663 €4,156 €42,819 €9,666 €52,485 Please note that the basic pay is at the midpoint of the scale.

14/12/2017WRVV00600Child and Family Agency Staff

14/12/2017WRVV00700657. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the details of the 300 additional Tusla staff who are being recruited to handle mandatory reporting, by job title and pay grade. [54071/17]

14/12/2017WRVV00800Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): My allocation of an additional €40.6 million in 2018 will allow Tusla to increase its staffing levels significantly to respond to expected increases in referrals following the introduction of mandatory reporting on 11 December 2017.

The breakdown of the additional staff, and the precise number of additional social workers to be recruited, is now being finalised by Tusla in the context of its 2018 Business Plan and the Performance Statement which I issued recently.

14/12/2017WRVV00900Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRVV01000658. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the use of external public relations firms employed per annum by her Department since coming into office, in tabular form; the external public relations firm used; the internal departmental policy with regard to employing external groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54072/17]

14/12/2017WRVV01100Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I came into office in May 2016 and there was no spend by my Department on the matters referred to in that year. The spend to date in 2017 is set out in the following table:

Company: Amount: Ms. Mandy Johnson €4,750 Persuasion Republic €102,256 Total €107,006 In general such services are engaged only as needs arise and where it is felt professional 339 Questions - Written Answers expertise can be of assistance to my Department.

14/12/2017WRVV01200Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRVV01300659. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the photography costs per annum for her Department since coming to office, inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance, in tabular form; the occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within her Depart- ment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54073/17]

14/12/2017WRVV01400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Details of the costs incurred on photography by my Department since my appointment as Minister in May 2016 are set out in the following table:

Date Photographer Nature of Employ- Cost ment 2016 Maxwell Photogra- Comhairle na nÓg €528.90 phy Ltd. Showcase 2017 to date Maxwell Photogra- Launch of Afford- €430.50 phy Ltd. able Childcare Scheme Maxwell Photogra- Photo Call: Child- €361.62 phy Ltd. care Billboard Launch 01/8/17 Maxwell Photogra- Photo Call: Minister €578.10 phy Ltd. visit to Kilnamanagh FRC 20/10/17 Maxwell Photogra- Dáil na nÓg Event €528.90 phy Ltd. The overall objective is to keep costs of this nature to a minimum and photographers are only used when deemed necessary in the course of Departmental activity.

14/12/2017WRVV01500Child and Family Agency Services

14/12/2017WRVV01600660. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the average time that children in each county are waiting to be allocated a social worker in cases, including high-priority cases of child protection and children in care. [54074/17]

14/12/2017WRVV01700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I can inform the Deputy that there were 26,201 open cases nationally at the end of September, which includes children in care. An open case is one which is assessed as needing a dedicated (allocated) social work service. There were 5,284 unallocated cases, of which 966 were high priority cases, 3,309 were medium priority, and 1,009 were low priority. Cases awaiting allocation include new referrals, cases already in progress, and children in care.

I am informed by Tusla that a case awaiting allocation may be listed as ‘active’ on a ‘duty’ system. This means that there are actions being undertaken by a dedicated duty team, or rotat- ing social workers on a duty roster to progress the protection and welfare of the child.

340 14 December 2017 Examples of actions being undertaken include telephone calls relating to the concern, visits to see the child, completing initial assessments and, where a child is in care, completing child in care reviews or plans. There are 28% of unallocated cases categorised as ‘active on duty’.

Tusla has provided the information in Table 1 below on the number of cases awaiting allocation to a social worker in each administrative area. Tusla has informed me that the average length of time cases are waiting is not collated nationally but rather by the number of cases waiting in time bands. Information on waiting times is provided in bands of less than 3 months, and greater than 3 months. In Table 2 the number of cases waiting less than 3 months and over 3 months for each priority level i.e., high, medium and low is given.

Addressing the number of children who are awaiting the allocation of a social worker is a priority for me. The Deputy should note that all urgent and emergency cases notified to Tusla are dealt with immediately. Urgent and emergency cases could involve cases of abandonment, allegations of physical or sexual abuse, parental ill-health leading to the need for an immediate placement, or threat to the safety or life of a child by a third party. I have secured funds in Budget 2018 which will allow Tusla to carry out the third year of a 3 year plan to provide for the allocation of a dedicated social worker to all children who need one.

My Department will continue to closely monitor progress in this regard, and I will continue to engage directly with the Tusla Board and Senior Management Team to review progress.

Cases awaiting allocation to a social worker September 2017 - numbers and priority level (Child protection & welfare and children in care)

Area Total Cases High Priority High Priority High Priority awaiting al- awaiting al- awaiting allo- awaiting allocation location cation less than location more 3 months than 3 months Dublin South East/ 113 4 2 2 Wicklow Dublin South West/ 934 260 32 228 Kildare/West Wicklow Dublin South Central 281 190 190 0 Midlands 282 56 46 10 Dublin North City 360 0 0 0 Dublin North 384 3 0 3 Louth/Meath 272 5 1 4 Cavan/Monaghan 245 10 0 10 Kerry 82 11 11 0 Cork 494 80 77 3 Carlow/Kilkenny/South 355 23 23 0 Tipperary Waterford/Wexford 306 99 79 20 Donegal 638 86 38 48 Sligo/Leitrim/West 43 7 3 4 Cavan Mayo 0 0 0 0 Galway/Roscommon 224 40 22 18 Midwest 271 92 85 7

341 Questions - Written Answers Area Total Cases High Priority High Priority High Priority awaiting al- awaiting al- awaiting allo- awaiting allocation location cation less than location more 3 months than 3 months Total Cases 5,284 966 609 357 Cases awaiting allocation to a social worker September 2017 - waiting times by priority level (Child protection & welfare and children in care)

Area High Priority High Priority Medium Pri- Medium Pri- Low Priority Low Priority waiting <3 waiting >3 ority waiting ority waiting waiting <3 waiting >3 months months <3 months >3 months months months Dublin South 2 2 60 36 6 7 East/Wick- low Dublin South 32 228 127 488 6 53 West/Kildare/ West Wick- low Dublin South 190 0 22 18 39 12 Central Midlands 46 10 118 74 26 8 Dublin North 0 0 134 84 51 91 City Dublin North 0 3 37 114 81 149 Louth/Meath 1 4 111 121 19 16 Cavan/ 0 10 44 130 29 32 Monaghan Kerry 11 0 7 31 26 7 Cork 77 3 270 81 35 28 Carlow/ 23 0 279 0 53 0 Kilkenny/ South Tipper- ary Waterford/ 79 20 153 34 13 7 Wexford Donegal 38 48 197 255 28 72 Sligo/ 3 4 1 27 2 6 Leitrim/West Cavan Mayo 0 0 0 0 0 0 Galway/ 22 18 119 52 5 8 Roscommon Midwest 85 7 63 22 17 77 Total Cases 609 357 1,742 1,567 436 573

Question No. 661 answered with Question No. 647.

14/12/2017WRVV01900Guardians Ad Litem

14/12/2017WRVV02000662. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the amount her Department has spent on guardian ad litem services, by provider. [54076/17]

342 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRVV02100Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): As stated in my previous response to you on 25 July 2017, and to Deputy Niamh Smith on 11 September 2017, Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has informed me that the total amount paid to Guardians ad litem was €8,189,175 in 2015 and €6,569,115 in 2016. Supplementary information has now been received from Tusla, confirming the total amount paid to Guardians ad litem for 2017, as of the end of October, to be €6,152,517. The following is a breakdown, by provider, of amounts paid for 2015, 2016, and year to date 2017:

GAL Costs Actuals 2016 Actuals 2015 Actuals Ytd October 2017 BARNARDOS - BEACON 3,422,780 3,822,950 2,359,011 THE INDEPENDENT GUARDIAN AD 1,834,553 1,304,482 1,820,788 LITEM CEILI O’CALLAGHAN CONSULTANCY 239,482 251,624 60,086 LTD CHILD AND FAMILY CONSULTANCY 237,330 272,096 133,027 LTD CHILD FORENSIC SERVICES LTD 223,241 162,622 46,849 JIGSAW TRAINING SOLUTIONS LTD 209,451 268,305 201,624 CELBRIDGE COUNSELLING SERVICE 193,420 220,740 86,973 RENEE HANLEY 165,799 141,468 13,369 MAEVE DRUMMEY 138,237 153,304 28,147 CHILD ADVOCACY SERVICES 128,959 226,819 -34,737 NATIONAL CHILDRENS WELFARE 114,499 171,574 143,899 SERVICES JC GAL SERVICES LTD 101,102 94,174 136,917 SOCIAL WORK CONSULTANCY IRE- 92,462 114,513 13,142 LAND LTD PAT DONNELLY 68,100 34,402 26,945 SARAH TREACY 59,885 60,684 43,581 CARMEL MURPHY 55,861 245,259 46,202 INDEPENDENT SOCIAL WORK SER- 45,854 170,740 80,653 VICE PATRICIA MCKAY LTD 44,699 59,841 INDEPENDENT GUARDIAN AD LITEM 42,637 181,084 62,596 SERVI CLARE OHARE 29,542 34,026 16,591 CLAIRE QUINN 27,128 307,465 0 ANTHONY JAMES MACKLIN 25,691 50,160 MARY BIRD, GUARDIAN AD LITEM 18,893 15,981 6,770 PATRICIA MCKAY 12,000 13,744 CLAIRE OCONNOR G.A.L. LTD 9,500 6,496 INDEPENDENT SOCIAL WORK 8,752 40,699 7,312 TERESA MONICA SHANNON 5,306 11,695 CHRISTINE JENKINS 3,894 13,002 614 FOLEY CHILD PROTECTION SERVICES 3,705 LTD JOHN P MURPHY 3,456 ALPHA GUARDIAN AD-LITEM SER- 111,204 VICES LE CHEILE CHILDCARE SERVICES LTD 125,181 RAYMOND MCEVOY 3,956

343 Questions - Written Answers

GAL Costs Actuals 2016 Actuals 2015 Actuals Ytd October 2017 MIEKE RYAN - MDR CHILD AND FAM- 26,368 -40,557 ILY TMM GUARDIAN AD LITEM LTD 158,601 DAVID KENNEDY T/A 117,415 MARY O’SHEA T/A MARY MOLLOY 62,353 CLEAR PARADIGMS 88,319 SEAMUS OGALLCHOIR 6,194 DEIRDRE CHAMBERS 50 Net Accruals/Prepayments/Journals -993,650 -787,211 716,056 Gal Costs Total 6,569,115 8,189,175 6,152,517 Please note the 2016 total includes accruals for refunds of VAT due from GAL vendors who had charged VAT in 2014 and 2015. The value of these refunds at end 2016 was €1,581,000. For 2017, due to VAT refunds relating to prior years invoicing, there is significant value of credit notes due to the Agency, which, in some instances, exceeded the value of the invoices submitted by GAL vendors.

14/12/2017WRVV02200Early Childhood Care and Education Funding

14/12/2017WRVV02300663. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the estimated cost of increasing the number of weeks provided under ECCE by 1 to 8 weeks, respectively. [54077/17]

14/12/2017WRVV02400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): The estimated cost of extending the ECCE programme, as specified by the Deputy, is contained in the table. These figures are based on current rates for the ECCE 2017/2018 programme year. It should be noted that this question only addresses the financial aspect of such increases. Any such changes would require revision of rules around eligibility and enrolment dates and would need to look at issues of capacity with regard to physical space, staffing capacities and other associated matters.

The actual cost of this proposal would be subject to a number of factors including actual levels of participation, and the number of children subvented at the ‘higher capitation’ rate- costs increase as the number of higher qualified staff increase.

Weeks Costs 38 (current ECCE cycle) 276m 39 (1 week increase) 283.3m 40 (2 week increase) 290.5m 41 (3 week increase) 297.8m 42 (4 week increase) 305.1m 43 (5 week increase) 312.3m 44 (6 week increase) 319.6m 45 (7 week increase) 326.8m 46 (8 week increase) 334.1m

14/12/2017WRVV02500Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRVV02600664. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the use her

344 14 December 2017 Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54190/17]

14/12/2017WRVV02700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Since coming into office in May 2016, my Department’s only use of the Government jet was when I travelled with the Taoiseach to the British Irish Council meeting in Cardiff on 25th November 2016.

14/12/2017WRVV02800Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRVV02900665. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the use her Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54206/17]

14/12/2017WRVV03000Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): From the establishment of my Department in June 2011 to February 2016, my Department has used the Government jet twice. The jet was used on one occasion by Minister Fitzgerald in 2013 and once by Minister Reilly in 2015.

14/12/2017WRVV03100Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRVV03200666. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the photography costs for her Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54222/17]

14/12/2017WRVV03300Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Details of the costs incurred on photography by my Department since March 2011 is set out in the table. Included in this table are 8 instances where the name of the photographer was not readily identifiable from the information contained in my Departments financial management system. Officials are going through the records to ascertain the names involved and I will revert to the Deputy in due course.

Date Photographer Nature of Employment Cost 2012 Derek Spiers (Report How we see it: Report €436.97 Ltd) of a survey on Teenagers Body Image Unavailable Life as a Child and €493.72 Young Person in Ireland Derek Spiers (Report Comhairle na nÓg Na- €828.55 Ltd) tional Showcase Unavailable Report of Task Force €493.72 Unavailable Visiting Vietnamese €1,409.22 Delegation with Viet- namese Minister for Jus- tice, Adoption Authority and Irish Vietnamese Society Unavailable Children’s Referendum €1,709.70 Information 2013 Fennel Photography Dáil na nÓg Event €1,094.70 345 Questions - Written Answers

Date Photographer Nature of Employment Cost Unavailable Standards for Local €436.97 Youth Groups Unavailable EU Presidency Interna- €120.00 tional Conference Event Unavailable Dublin Castle Net- €500 working of Four Youth Organisations Unavailable Launch of Board of €300 Child & Family Agency 2014 Maxwell Photography Comhairle na nÓg Na- €522.75 Ltd. tional Showcase Unavailable Launch of Better Out- €189.90 comes Brighter Futures 2015 Fennell Photography Establishment of Mother €90.80 and Baby Homes Com- mission Fennell Photography Supply of images for €177.42 Mother and Baby Homes Commission Fennell Photography Photoshoot for Mother €90.80 and Baby Homes Com- mission Fennell Photography Supply of images for €29.57 Mother and Baby Homes Commission Maxwell Photography Dáil na nÓg Event €424.35 Ltd. 2016 Maxwell Photography Comhairle na nÓg Na- €528.90 Ltd. tional Showcase 2017 to date Maxwell Photography Launch of Affordable €430.50 Ltd. Childcare Scheme Maxwell Photography Photo Call: Child- €361.62 Ltd. care Billboard Launch 01/8/17 Maxwell Photography Photo Call: Minister visit €578.10 Ltd. to Kilnamanagh FRC 20/10/17 Maxwell Photography Dáil na nÓg Event €528.90 Ltd. The overall objective is to keep costs of this nature to a minimum and photographers are only used when deemed necessary in the course of Departmental activity.

14/12/2017WRVV03400Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRVV03500667. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the use of external public relations firms employed by her Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54238/17]

14/12/2017WRVV03600Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): The information requested is currently being collated. The information sought will be forwarded directly to the Deputy when available.

346 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRVV03700Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRVV03800668. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the external consultant reports commissioned by her Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54254/17]

14/12/2017WRVV03900Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): The information requested is set out in the table and is based on the information collated in the time available. As you will see from the detailed response, there is a lot of information contained in the reply and my officials are currently reviewing it to ensure that it provides the full picture of all external reports commissioned in the time frame specified by the Deputy. I will advise the Deputy directly should any change to this information result from the review.

In addition to the information set out below, the Deputy may wish to note that in 2006 a contract to carry out the first phase the National Longitudinal Study of Children in Ireland was awarded by the Department of Health and Children (through the then Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs) to a consortium comprising the ESRI and TCD. Since then, the study has adopted the working title of ‘Growing Up in Ireland’. Following a further public procurement competition a contract was again awarded to the ESRI/TCD consortium to carry out the second phase of the study over the period 2015-2019. As part of the overall contract, the consortium is required to prepare and publish reports from time to time. The Department of Children and Youth Affairs meets the costs of printing these reports. Since the establishment of this Department in 2011 the total cost of printing these reports has been €31,967.14.

Name of External Date of Com- Publication Date Name of External Con- Cost Report mission sultant Body Image Survey March 2011 October 2011 Anam Cara €6,800.00 Report Youth Work: A Sys- September June 2013 Social Science Re- €67,000.00 tematic Map of the 2011 search Unit, Institute of Research Literature Education, University of (EPPI-Centre) London.

Valuation report November Not published - Internal Elliott Fitzgerald Ltd. €1,230.00 2011 use only Needs Assessment for December Not published - Internal Centre for Effective €18,400.00 the Redevelopment of 2011 use only Services www.childrensdata- base.ie Every Child a Home: December July 2013 Centre for Effective €6,000.00 A Review of the 2011 Services €5,522.70 Implementation of the Penhouse Design €4,706.57 Youth Homelessness Intacta Print €1,360.00 Strategy Carole Devaney for Total:€17,589.27 proofing of report and of briefing note Comhairle na nÓg July 2012 Not published - Internal Anam Cara €7,650.00 and Garda Siochana use only survey on the At- titudes of Gardaí to Young People. Ques- tionnaire for Gardaí and Young People Public Knowledge July 2012 Not published - Internal Behaviour and Attitudes- €42,864.98 and Attitudes Relating use only Qualitative Research – €59,040.00 to Children’s Rights, Group Facilitation €1,107.00 Welfare, Protection Quantitative Research – Total:€103,011.98 and Services Interviews Barometer Research

347 Questions - Written Answers

Name of External Date of Com- Publication Date Name of External Con- Cost Report mission sultant Ireland’s Consolidat- July 2012 July 2013 Ms. Carmel Corrigan – €12,600.00 ed 3rd and 4th Report Drafting of Report €4,760.00 to the United Nations Ms. Carol Devaney – Total:€17,360.00 Committee in the Editing, Formatting and Rights of the Child Indexing Strategic Human December April 2013 Mazars €20,602.50 Resources 2012 Internal Audit Report: December Not published - Internal Capita Business Services Combined for both Early Childhood 2012Decem- use only Ltd reports €23,803.00 Care and Education ber 2012 Capita Business Services Scheme Internal Ltd Audit Report: ICT Shared Services Ar- rangements

Name of External Date of Commission Publication Date Name of External Cost Report Consultant Body Image Survey March 2011 October 2011 Anam Cara €6,800.00 Report Youth Work: A Sys- September 2011 June 2013 Social Science Re- €67,000.00 tematic Map of the search Unit, Institute Research Literature of Education, Uni- versity of (EPPI- Centre) London.

Valuation report November 2011 Not published - Inter- Elliott Fitzgerald Ltd. €1,230.00 nal use only Needs Assessment for December 2011 Not published - Inter- Centre for Effective €18,400.00 the Redevelopment of nal use only Services www.childrensdata- base.ie Every Child a Home: December 2011 July 2013 Centre for Effective €6,000.00 A Review of the Services €5,522.70 Implementation of the Penhouse DesignIn- 4,706.57 Youth Homelessness tacta €1,360.00 Strategy Print Carole Devaney Total:€17,589.27 for proofing of report and of briefing note Comhairle na nÓg July 2012 Not published - Inter- Anam Cara €7,650.00 and Garda Siochana nal use only survey on the Attitudes of Gardaí to Young People. Questionnaire for Gardaí and Young People Public Knowledge July 2012 Not published - Inter- Behaviour and At- €42,864.98 and Attitudes Relating nal use only titudes €59,040.00 to Children’s Rights, Qualitative Research €1,107.00 Welfare, Protection – Group Facilitation- Total: and Services Quantitative Research €103,011.98 – Interviews Barometer Research Ireland’s Consolidated July 2012 July 2013 Ms. Carmel Corrigan €12,600.00 3rd and 4th Report to – Drafting of Report- €4,760.00 the United Nations Ms. Carol Devaney Total:€17,360.00 Committee in the – Editing, Formatting Rights of the Child and Indexing Strategic Human December 2012 April 2013 Mazars €20,602.50 Resources

348 14 December 2017

Name of External Date of Commission Publication Date Name of External Cost Report Consultant Internal Audit Report: December 2012De- Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- Combined for both Early Childhood Care cember 2012 nal use only vices Ltd reports €23,803.00 and Education Scheme Capita Business Ser- Internal Audit Report: vices Ltd ICT Shared Services Arrangements Summary Report for January 2013 March 2013 Cnag ar an Doras €4,918.00 Young Voices Have Your Say- Structured Dialogue Care Issues Review March 2013 Not published - Inter- Victor McElfatrick €3,556.56 nal use only Report on Structural March 2013 Not published - Inter- Frontier Engineering €7,668.74 Damage nal use only Group Ltd. Staff Roster Review April 2013 Not published - Inter- McGuinness Killen €6,715.80 nal use only Partnership Role Review for Child May 2013 November 2013 Mazars €16,512.75 & Family Agency Care Issues Review September 2013 Not published - Inter- Conal Devine & As- €13,636.21 nal use only sociates Internal Audit Report: January 2014 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €8,200.00 Community Childcare nal use only vices Ltd Subvention / Child- care Education and Training Supports Programmes Care Issues Review February 2014 Not published - Inter- Kieran McGrath €13,500.00 nal use only Policy Analysis and March 2014 Not published - Inter- Bramell Lane Ltd €29,151.00 Development on Re- nal use only mission of Sentence Land Valuation Report August 2014 Not published - Inter- Lisney Chartered €2,152.50 nal use only Surveyors Internal Audit October 2014 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €12,623.00 Report:National nal use only vices Ltd Children’s Detention Facility Report on the process, November 2014 Not published - Inter- University College €7,915.05 methodology and work nal use only Dublin of the Comhairle na nÓg National Execu- tive 2014-2015 Internal Audit Report: November 2014 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €15,675.00 Programme Integration nal use only vices Ltd Platform Internal Audit Report: November 2014 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €16,858.00 Transactions Audit nal use only vices Ltd Report on Ireland’s November 2014 Not published - Inter- Carmel Corrigan €6,300.00 Implementation of EU nal use only Youth Strategy “Becoming an Active December 2014 Not published - Inter- The Change Explor- €1,600.00 Player” - Report on nal use only atory Ltd. meeting of Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures Advisory Council Internal Audit Report: February 2015 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €16,225.00 DCYA Governance Ar- nal use only vices Ltd rangements in respect of Tusla

349 Questions - Written Answers

Name of External Date of Commission Publication Date Name of External Cost Report Consultant Report on the National February 2015 September 2015 Sandra Roe €4,800.00 Youth Strategy for online survey results, consultation events with stakeholders and consultation event with young people Report of the involve- March 2015 December 2015 Sandra Roe €6,000.00 ment of children and young people in the recruitment of the Om- budsman for Children A report of consulta- May 2015 June 2016 Ursula Kelly, UCC €9,827.70 tions with children and young people for Ireland 2016 Review of Public June 2015 Internal use only Capita Business €4,125.00 Spending Code Return Services (Quality Assurance) Report of the process July 2015 January 2016 Ursula Kelly, UCC €9,948.00 of consulting children and young people living in Direct Provision Audit of education and September 2015 July 2017 Ursula Kelly, UCC €19,978.00 training on children’s rights and children’s and young people’s participation in decision-making in all third level and further education programmes and continuing professional development programmes in Ireland Report of the work- October 2015 January 2016 Sandra Roe €4,000.00 shop discussions at Dáil na nÓg 2015 Updating the Com- November 2015 November 2016 Cnag ar an Doras €17,500.00 hairle na nÓg Toolkit Provision of Services December 2015 For internal use to in- Imelda Coyne,Trinity €23,865.00 Pursuant to A National form the Early Years College,Dublin Consultation with Strategy. Children (aged 3-5) on the National Early Years Strategy Scoping Report on the December 2015 February 2016 Research Matters Ltd €20,726.55 Development of Data Relating to Children ICT Strategic Risk As- February 2016 Not published - Inter- Grant Thornton €11,592.75 sessment Audit for De- nal use only Corporate Finance partment of Children Ltd. and Youth Affairs. Internal Audit Report: February 2016 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €6,050.00 Desktop review of nal use only vices Ltd Policies and Proce- dures A review of public May 2016 Not published - Inter- DIT €13,200.00 policy on play and nal use only recreation in Ireland

350 14 December 2017

Name of External Date of Commission Publication Date Name of External Cost Report Consultant Internal Audit Report: May 2016 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Ser- €11,275.00 Transaction Audit nal use only vices Ltd 2016 Internal Audit Report: June 2016 Not published - Inter- Mazars €33,338.90 Review of Compliance nal use only with the terms and conditions of the CCS Programme. Evaluation of the July 2016 Not published - Inter- IT Executive Focus €27,950.00 - Phase 1 strategic options to nal use only deliver an ICT system to support the Single Affordable Childcare Scheme Data Protection As- August 2016 Not published - Inter- Grant Thornton Cor- €23,985.00 sessment for Depart- nal use only porate Finance Ltd. ment of Children and Youth Affairs Review for the Stra- October 2016 September 2017 Middlequarter Not finalised tegic Development of the National Quality Standards Framework Report of the work- October 2016 April 2017 Marino Institute of €9,203.00 shop discussions at Education the Comhairle na nÓg Showcase 2016 Report of consultations October 2016 July 2017 University College Not finalised and meetings of Phase Dublin 1 of the Children’s Poverty Truth Com- mission Report of Evaluation October 2016 July 2017 Queens University Not finalised of Phase 1 of the Chil- Belfast dren’s Poverty Truth Commission Internal Audit October 2016 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Sys- €5,500.00 Report:Appropriations nal use only tems Ltd Account 2015 Internal Audit Report: December 2016 Not published - Inter- Capita Business Sys- €9,900.00 Affordable Childcare nal use only tems Ltd Scheme Project Man- agement Report of the Young March 2017 June 2017 Sandra Roe €5,000.00 People’s Consulta- tions on the Value for Money and Policy Re- view of Youth Funding Schemes

14/12/2017WRWW00200Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRWW00300669. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the level of expenditure by her Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Govern- ment information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54270/17]

14/12/2017WRWW00400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Details of the 351 Questions - Written Answers expenditure by my Department on advertising of Government information campaigns from 1 January to date in 2017, are set out in the following table:

Media Information Campaign: Amount: Spunout – Facebook & Launch of National LGBTI+ € 1,103.69 iPhone Survey Youth Strategy Union of Students in Ireland Launch of Youth Consulta- € 300.00 tion Report Gay Community News Launch of Youth Consulta- € 1,045.00 tion Report Across digital media Affordable Childcare € 29,722 Scheme TOTAL € 32170,69

14/12/2017WRWW00500Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRWW00600670. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Department from 1 Janu- ary 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54286/17]

14/12/2017WRWW00700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Details of the expenditure incurred by my Department to date in 2017 under the headings mentioned are as follows:

- Company Nature of Cost Cost Photography Maxwell Photography Ltd Launch of new Affordable €430.50 Childcare measures Maxwell Photography Ltd Dáil na Óg Event €528.90 Maxwell Photography Ltd. Photo Call: Childcare Bill- €361.62 board Launch 01/8/17 Maxwell Photography Ltd. Photo Call: Minister visit to €578.10 Kilnamanagh FRC 20/10/17 Advertising Havas Media Ltd Radio, Digital and Outdoor €218,175.37 advertising for new Afford- able Childcare measures and website SpunOut Facebook Advertising – €1,100.00 launch of online survey in relation to LGBTI+ Strategy USI Ad to promote launch of €300.00 LGBTI+ Youth Consulta- tion Report Gay Community News Ad to promote launch of €1,045.00 LGBTI+ Youth Consulta- tion Report Facebook Ad to launch online survey €3.69 in relation to LGBTI+ Strategy Mediavest Ltd. Radio Advertisement Cam- €25,431.05 paign Mediavest Ltd. Radio Advertisement Cam- €386.65 paign

352 14 December 2017

- Company Nature of Cost Cost Mediavest Ltd. Print Advertisement €32,579.99 Mediavest Ltd. Print Advertisement €32,773.01 Communication Advice Mandy Johnson Advice on new Affordable €4,750.00 Childcare measures Communication Advise/ Persuasion Republic Public Information €95,896 Advertising campaign with regard to new Affordable Childcare measures including advice on development of a Com- munications strategy, cost of production, design and printing of information materials, production of a radio ad and support materials for campaign. Web Development Persuasion Republic Ltd Website development cost €6,360.00 for ‘affordablechildcare.ie’ Fusio Hub na nÓg website €11,734.20 I have asked the State Agencies under the remit of my Department to supply the information directly to the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRWW00800Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRWW00900671. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53574/17]

14/12/2017WRWW01000Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): A number of provisions of the Charities Act 2009 have yet to be commenced. These sections provide for a range of miscellaneous matters, including for charitable fundraising. My Department was recently assigned responsibility for oversight of the Charities Regulatory Authority and will be working with the Authority in relation to the commencement of these sections of the Charities Act.

Section - Section 89 Permission to enter into certain agreements with charity trustees or connected persons Section 93 Provision for non-cash collections and related matters under the Act of 1962 Section 94 Duties of collectors Section 95 Seizure of non-cash collection documentation, etc. Section 96 Offences under the Act of 1962 Section 97 Power to make regulations in relation to charitable fund-raising Section 98 Amendment of the Central Bank Act 1997

14/12/2017WRWW01100Local Authority Funding

14/12/2017WRWW01200672. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development

353 Questions - Written Answers the amount of the €28 million prepaid to local authorities at the end of 2016 that has not been spent to date on the projects for which it was approved; the steps being taken to either ensure that this money is spent or the money repaid to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53703/17]

14/12/2017WRWW01300Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): As part of the Government’s programme to support rural development, a number of initiatives including CLÁR, the Rural Recreation Scheme, the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, and REDZ (Rural Economic Development Zones) were launched during 2016. In general, these initiatives were implemented through the Local Authorities.

All funding was made available in line with the sanction received from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and on the basis of funding agreements signed with the Local Authorities.

The table outlines the amount of funding provided to each Local Authority by programme in 2016 and the most up to date expenditure information available in respect of each scheme. Un- less otherwise indicated, the figures reflect the position to the end of September 2017. It should be noted that not all Local Authorities applied for, or were eligible for, every scheme.

This is the latest expenditure information available at this time. However, my Department is continuing to work closely with all relevant Local Authorities to ensure that any remaining funding allocated to them is spent promptly and in accordance with the original project proposals.

County Total amount dis- Grant Expenditure Total amount Grant Expenditure bursed REDZ 2016 at the 29 Sep 2017 disbursed Town and at the 29 Sep 2017 Village Renewal Scheme 2016 Carlow €200,000.00 €119,379.32 €380,000.00 €377,855.96 Cavan €200,000.00 €72,500.00 €380,000.00 €260,229.25 Clare €200,000.00 €28,736.00 €380,000.00 €345,157.00 Cork €248,000.00 €172,700.00 €380,000.00 €0.00 Donegal €298,000.00 €119,913.00 €380,000.00 €0.00 Dublin FINGAL €0.00 €0.00 €380,000.00 €307,074.00 DLR Galway €100,000.00 €4,995.00 €380,000.00 €228,862.00 Kerry €150,195.00 €150,195.00 €380,000.00 €368,221.00 Kildare €100,000.00 €79,206.00 €380,000.00 €139,263.00 Kilkenny €200,000.00 €150,073.00 €380,000.00 €324,831.00 Laois €200,000.00 €149,000.00 €380,000.00 €162,940.00 Leitrim €300,000.00 €235,177.00 €380,000.00 €380,000.00 Limerick €300,000.00 €0.00 €380,000.00 €284,507.00 Longford €350,000.00 €263,282.00 €380,000.00 €380,000.00 Louth €100,000.00 €58,000.00 €380,000.00 €380,000.00 Mayo €150,000.00 €108,906.00 €380,000.00 €380,000.00 Meath €200,000.00 €98,700.00 €380,000.00 €298,260.00 Monaghan €290,000.00 €81,295.00 €380,000.00 €353,316.00 Offaly €414,870.00 €29,697.31 €380,000.00 €37,890.68 Roscommon €100,000.00 €100,000.00 €380,000.00 €276,086.00 Sligo €800,000.00 €322,000.00 €380,000.00 €380,000.00 Tipperary €699,221.00 €281,526.00 €380,000.00 €282,728.00

354 14 December 2017

County Total amount dis- Grant Expenditure Total amount Grant Expenditure bursed REDZ 2016 at the 29 Sep 2017 disbursed Town and at the 29 Sep 2017 Village Renewal Scheme 2016 Waterford €100,000.00 €0.00 €380,000.00 €380,000.00 Westmeath €192,000.00 €20,745.00 €380,000.00 €301,289.00 Wexford €100,000.00 €41,250.00 €380,000.00 €302,991.42 Wicklow €150,556.00 €21,304.00 €380,000.00 €234,151.75 Sub Total €6,142,842.00 €2,708,579.63 €9,880,000.00 €7,165,653.06

County Total amount dis- Grant Expenditure Total amount Grant expenditure bursed CLÁR 2016 at 29th September disbursed Rural at the 29 Sep 2017 2019 Recreation Scheme Rural Recreation 2016 2016 Carlow €80,000.00 €80,000.00 €67,500.00 €37,134.05 Cavan* €498,184.00 €459,381.00 €45,567.00 €30,496.00 Clare* €284,000.00 €230,000.00 €255,625.20 €65,000.00 Cork €562,222.40 €215,717.92 €417,815.15 €181,153.15 Donegal €878,632.54 €518,832.59 €67,991.00 €59,831.00 Dublin FINGAL €0.00 €0.00 €33,666.94 €0.00 DLR Galway €392,000.00 €351,656.00 €248,950.00 €107,170.63 Kerry €744,964.00 €589,910.00 €288,000.00 €107,642.00 Kildare €0.00 €0.00 €0.00 €0.00 Kilkenny* €223,000.00 €158,762.00 €0.00 €0.00 Laois €258,900.00 €144,500.00 €256,000.00 €200,000.00 Leitrim €274,800.00 €255,000.00 €480,000.00 €78,645.90 Limerick €235,000.00 €235,000.00 €291,250.00 €240,000.00 Longford €237,560.00 €167,983.09 €190,000.00 €135,000.00 Louth €173,520.00 €111,131.00 €0.00 €0.00 Mayo €976,869.00 €819,117.00 €455,000.00 €373,729.00 Meath €127,600.00 €122,546.00 €50,000.00 €50,000.00 Monaghan €356,440.00 €339,221.00 €273,014.00 €191,153.00 Offaly €123,398.00 €117,985.00 €172,959.00 €11,143.00 Roscommon €406,497.40 €406,497.40 €0.00 €0.00 Sligo €598,400.00 €530,000.00 €42,562.50 €42,562.50 Tipperary €371,000.00 €350,561.80 €85,208.00 €30,170.00 Waterford €261,600.00 €237,900.06 €0.00 €0.00 Westmeath* €214,280.00 €190,134.00 €219,590.00 €49,916.00 Wexford €0.00 €0.00 €189,455.00 €75,197.00 Wicklow €70,000.00 €0.00 €0.00 €0.00 Sub Total €8,348,867.34 €6,631,835.86 €4,130,153.79 €2,065,943.23 * Some additional expenditure under CLÁR was reported in November 2017 by the Local Authorities indicated.

14/12/2017WRWW01400Departmental Budgets

14/12/2017WRWW01500673. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if his Department has sought permission from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform

355 Questions - Written Answers to carry over unspent capital to 2018; if so, the amount sought as a carryover; the reason this was necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53704/17]

14/12/2017WRWW01600Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The proposed capital carryover will be finalised as part of the Revised Estimates Volume 2018. Gov- ernment financial procedures provide for the carry-over of up to 10% of unspent capital funding from any year to the subsequent year. My Department has requested the carry-over of €7.7 million in unspent Capital allocations from 2017 to 2018.

Capital underspends have arisen on some of my Department’s rural development schemes, given that these schemes are relatively new, as in the case of the Town and Village Renewal scheme. In the case of the LEADER programme, and in line with LEADER programmes in other EU Member States, there has been a lead-in period in the ramping up and implementation of the 2014-2020 programme as the LEADER Local Action Groups (LAGs) developed their Local Development Strategies, formalised their internal processes and procedures, and worked with potential project promoters to develop applications. However, the level of LEADER activity in Ireland has increased substantially in recent months. Over 550 LEADER projects, with a value of €14.6 million, have now been approved by the LAGs and I expect the level of approvals and expenditure to grow rapidly in 2018.

14/12/2017WRWW01700Departmental Budgets

14/12/2017WRWW01800674. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the capital allocated to his Department for 2017; the amount spent to date by subhead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53705/17]

14/12/2017WRWW01900Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The total amount of capital funding allocated to my Department upon its creation was approximately €77 million. The allocations provided in the table below reflect the recently published Further Revised Estimates Volume 2017. To date payments totalling €48.7 million have been made, as shown in the table below. It has been impressed upon Local Authorities the need to accelerate spending on their 2017 projects as a matter of urgency. Payment processing is on-going, with further payments expected.

Subhead 2017 Further Revised Esti- Spend to 12 December - €m mates Allocation - €m Dormant Accounts 2 1.6 Western Development Com- 1 0 mission National Rural Development 11.4 9.4 Schemes LEADER 30 13.2 Town & Village Regenera- 12 0.9 tion Rural Broadband 1 0 Local Improvement 10 15 Schemes RAPID 3.8 3.3 Programme for Peace & 0.7 0.6 Reconciliation

356 14 December 2017 Subhead 2017 Further Revised Esti- Spend to 12 December - €m mates Allocation - €m Library Development and 2.7 2.7 Archive Service Community Facilities Fund 2 2

14/12/2017WRWW02000Local Authority Funding

14/12/2017WRWW02100675. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if permission has been sought or granted to his Department to pre-pay local authorities or other bodies for works sanctioned but not carried out before the end of 2017 and to allow these bodies do the work in 2018; if so, the amount of money to be pre-paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53706/17]

14/12/2017WRWW02200Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): Earlier this year, I launched a number of schemes that provide support for the development of rural communities. These include the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Outdoor/Rural Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, the CLÁR Programme and the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS).

It is important to note that apart from the LIS, the rural development schemes are expected to operate over a 12-15 month period. Therefore, it was always anticipated that a portion of the funds allocated would be drawn-down in 2018, but only when the draw-down conditions are met, including the full completion of works which is required for final payments to be issued.

In the case of the LIS, funding can be drawn down on certification by a Local Authority that 50% of their works have been completed and that all works will be fully completed by 31st December 2017. In addition to Local Authority certification and desk-based checks by my officials, my Department’s Inspection Services have completed on-the-spot verification checks on LIS roads in a number of counties and were able to verify that works had been completed to the level certified. Further inspection and audit will be carried out early in 2018 to ensure that all works are fully completed.

In the case of the Outdoor Rural Recreation Infrastructure scheme, the Town and Village Renewal scheme and the CLÁR programme, Local Authorities are required to spend at least 20% of the total project cost before the first tranche payment of 50% of their allocation under the respective scheme can be drawn-down. The balance of funding will only be paid on full completion of the projects in question.

The release of the initial tranche of funding is also subject to satisfactory progress being demonstrated in respect of the 2016 schemes, where such funding was provided to the Local Authorities.

Aside from these schemes, I have allocated €1.4 million this year to support TidyTown Committees throughout the country to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition in 2018; this funding is being distributed through Pobal. I have also allocated €812,000 to the Irish Shows Association by way of sponsorship of local agricultural shows in 2018.

Prior to the establishment of my Department, sanction was sought by the former Depart- ments of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government, to make advance payments in relation to a number of schemes operating under the community and/or voluntary sectors, and to fund Pobal in its management and oversight of programmes on behalf of the Department. Advance payments of this nature are necessary to allow community-based projects to proceed, or for essential services to be 357 Questions - Written Answers provided. They are, however, are subject to appropriate monitoring, reporting and control procedures.

14/12/2017WRWW02300Action Plan for Rural Development Implementation

14/12/2017WRWW02400676. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the progress as provided under the programme for Government on the development of a new Atlantic economic corridor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53718/17]

14/12/2017WRWW02500Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The Pro- gramme for a Partnership Government and the Action Plan for Rural Development both contain a commitment to progress the concept of an Atlantic Economic Corridor. The concept was proposed in February 2016 by a group involving a number of Chambers of Commerce in the Western region and the American Chambers of Commerce of Ireland.

The overarching objective of the Atlantic Economic Corridor concept is to maximise the assets of the western region, from Kerry to Donegal, and connect the economic hubs, clusters and catchments of the region to attract investment, support job creation and contribute to an improved quality of life for those who live in the region.

I established an Atlantic Economic Corridor Taskforce in March 2017 to progress the proposal. The Taskforce includes senior representatives from the business sector, key Government Departments and other public bodies, and third level institutions.

The role of the Taskforce, inter alia, is to:

- Develop a common understanding of the AEC concept.

- Provide a platform for engagement between stakeholders from the private sector, the public sector, third Level institutions and the wider community to consider how best an economic corridor can be created to maximise the potential of the region and to ensure a co-ordinated approach.

- Oversee and support an sub-group structure to progress specific objectives.

- Conduct an analysis of the potential of the region and the issues that need to be addressed to maximise that potential.

- Work with relevant bodies and agencies to identify infrastructural and other priorities which could help to support the economic development of the AEC region.

- Identify short-to-medium-term actions which can be taken to achieve the longer-term goals of the Atlantic Economic Corridor which will be consistent with the National Planning Framework.

The Taskforce has met four times since it was established and will continue to meet on a regular basis. A number of sub-groups of the Taskforce have also been established to progress specific aspects of the overall proposal.

The Atlantic Economic Corridor has the potential to contribute to effective regional development in the context of the forthcoming National Planning Framework. The development of the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies, which are provided for in the draft National Planning Framework, will also be important tools for further embedding the concept at both regional and national level.

358 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRWW02600Ministerial Briefing

14/12/2017WRWW02700677. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if his ministerial briefing has been published and is downloadable on his Department’s new website. [53729/17]

14/12/2017WRWW02800Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): My ministerial briefing is available on my Department’s website at the following address:

http://drcd.gov.ie/about/ministers/

This briefing was provided to me on 19 June 2017. Since that date, my Department has also been assigned responsibility for the Charities Regulatory Authority. Functions relating to the Community Services Programme are due to transfer to my Department on 1 January 2018.

14/12/2017WRWW02900Town and Village Renewal Scheme

14/12/2017WRWW03000678. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the amount allocated to town centre health checks per annum; the number of checks undertaken by county; and the number planned. [54144/17]

14/12/2017WRWW03100Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): While there is no specific scheme available within my Department to fund town centre health checks, the preparation and development of such health checks are eligible for support under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme which is operated by my Department.

I recently approved funding of €21.6 million to 281 rural towns and villages under the 2017 Town and Village Renewal Scheme, with an emphasis on projects that focus on improving the economic development of those towns and villages. A number of these projects included proposals for the development of town health checks and town plans. As these proposals were generally part of a larger initiative, the precise details of the amount of funding allocated to health checks by the projects in question is not available to my Department at this stage.

In addition to the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, assistance may be available for feasibility studies under the LEADER Programme for this type of initiative, subject to certain conditions. The Local Action Groups which administer the LEADER programme would be in a position to provide further details of supports available.

14/12/2017WRWW03200Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRWW03300679. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the use his Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54202/17]

14/12/2017WRWW03400680. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the use his Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to Febru- ary 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54218/17]

14/12/2017WRWW03500Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): I propose to take Questions Nos. 679 and 680 together.

The Department of Rural and Community Development was established on 19 July 2017. 359 Questions - Written Answers Since that date, I can confirm that my Department has not made use of the Government jet.

14/12/2017WRXX00150Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRXX00200681. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from the use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54234/17]

14/12/2017WRXX00300Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The Depart- ment of Rural and Community Development was established on 19 July 2017. Any information relating to the functions transferred to this Department, for the requested period prior to that date, will be reported by the relevant previous parent Departments in their responses.

My Department is currently in the process of tendering for a photography service through the framework provided by the Office of Government Procurement, which is available to all Departments.

The information on photography costs relevant to my Department, since its establishment, is set out in the following table:.

Date Event Photographer Cost 23/08/2017 Launch of Action Plan Barry Cronin € 676.50 for Rural Development 6 month review, The Virginia Show, Virginia, Co Cavan 21/09/2017 Launch of LIS Scheme, Barry Cronin € 512.40 National Plouging Cham- pionship, Screggan, Co Offaly 04/10/2017 Town and Village fund- Barry Cronin € 430.50 ing launch, Granard, Co Longford 19/10/2017 Launch of Seniors Alert Julien Behal € 676.50 Scheme Summerhill, County Meath 09/11/2017 Launch of Library fund- Julien Behal € 522.75 ing, Pearse St, Dublin 2 06/12/2017 Announcing the 400th Barry Cronin € 430.50 Men’s Shed, Kilcock, Co Kildare

14/12/2017WRXX00350Public Relations Contracts Expenditure

14/12/2017WRXX00400682. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54250/17]

14/12/2017WRXX00500Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The Depart- ment of Rural and Community Development was established on 19 July 2017. Any informa- 360 14 December 2017 tion relating to the functions transferred to this Department, for the requested period, will be reported by the relevant previous parent Departments in their responses. My Department has not used these services since its establishment. There is no specific internal departmental policy with regard to employing such external public relations firms. All proposed procurement of services is subject to an assessment of business needs and the application of internal financial procedures on public procurement rules in compliance with relevant EU, national legislation and best practice.

14/12/2017WRXX00550Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRXX00600683. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date in tabular form. [54266/17]

14/12/2017WRXX00700Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The Depart- ment of Rural and Community Development was established on 19 July 2017. Any information relating to the functions transferred to this Department, for the requested period, will be reported by the relevant previous parent Departments in their responses, with the exception of the information provided below.

The table contains details of an external consultant report which was commissioned in Feb- ruary 2017 by the then Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government and may not be reported by that Department as the relevant documentation has now transferred to my Department.

Title Company Cost Date published An assessment of in- Elevate Strategies €15,000 To be published in ternational best prac- Ltd 2018 tice of State support for organisations charged with promotion/development of social innovation In Ireland and other relevant jurisdictions.

14/12/2017WRXX00750Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRXX00800684. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54282/17]

14/12/2017WRXX00900Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The Depart- ment of Rural and Community Development was established on 19 July 2017. Any information relating to the functions transferred to this Department, for the requested period prior to that date, will be reported by the relevant previous parent Departments in their responses.

361 Questions - Written Answers My Department has no expenditure on advertising of Government information campaigns to date.

However, at my request, Pobal commissioned a media campaign to increase awareness of the Seniors Alert Scheme which has been successful in increasing the number of applications significantly in recent weeks.

14/12/2017WRXX00950Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRXX01000685. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54298/17]

14/12/2017WRXX01100Minister for Rural and Community Development (Deputy Michael Ring): The detailed information sought by the Deputy is not available within the timeframe to respond to this question. However I have asked my officials, and the organisations under the aegis of my Depart- ment, to provide me with the information requested and I will forward it to the Deputy as soon as it becomes available.

14/12/2017WRXX01150Employment Data

14/12/2017WRXX01200686. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the number of if-and-when contracts in the labour market as defined by the UL study into low-hours contracts; and the number of zero-hour contracts, as defined under the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, in operation. [53692/17]

14/12/2017WRXX01300Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The University of Limerick (UL), in their study on zero hour contracts and low hour contracts, were not able to quantify the numbers of people on zero hour contracts or “if and when” contracts. However, based on their stakeholder interviews, UL found that zero hour contracts within the meaning of Section 18 of the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 are not extensively used in Ireland. Through the stakeholder interviews, UL also found evidence of “if and when” contracts and variations of such contracts, e.g. some contracts where all hours are on an “if and when” basis, while other hybrid contracts provide a minimum number of guaranteed hours with any additional hours provided on an “if and when” basis. However, UL could not quantify the numbers of people employed on such contracts from existing data sources. UL found that “if and when” arrangements are likely to be found where working hours are unpredictable and variable.

The Deputy will be aware that the Employment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2017was published on 7th December. The Bill delivers on the commitment in the Programme for a Partnership Government to tackle the problems caused by the increased casualisation of work and to strengthen the regulation of precarious work. The key objective of the Bill is to improve the security and predictability of working hours for employees on insecure contracts and those working variable hours.

I hope that the Bill will be taken at Second Stage at an early date in the New Year.

362 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRXX01350Social Welfare Code

14/12/2017WRXX01400687. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of progress towards the programme for Government commitment to review the fish assist scheme in recognition of the irregular earning patterns of fishermen. [53985/17]

14/12/2017WRXX01500Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The farm/fish assist schemes provide support for farmers and fishermen on low incomes and are similar to jobseeker’s allowance. Recipients retain the advantages of the jobseeker’s allowance scheme such as the retention of secondary benefits and access to activation programmes. The 2017 Revised Estimates for my Department provide for expenditure of €82.8 million on the farm/fish assist scheme.

The Programme for Government contained a commitment to undertake a review of “the Fish Assist scheme in recognition of the irregular earning patterns of fishermen, in an effort to respond to difficult financial circumstances.”

This review was completed in 2016 and informed the measures introduced for the Farm and Fish Assist Schemes in Budget 2017.

Budget 2017 introduced measures in relation to the assessment of means for farm/fish assist which reversed all changes introduced in Budgets 2012 and 2013. These measures included that farm/fish income would be assessed at 70% (down from 100%) with an additional annual means disregard of €254 for each of the first two children and €381 for the third and subsequent children. These improvements came into effect in March 2017.

Farm/fish assist recipients will also benefit from the following measures which I provided for in Budget 2018; the €5 per week increase in the maximum weekly rates of payment, proportionate increases in weekly payments for qualified adults, a €2 per week increase for each qualified child; the 85% Christmas Bonus. These changes are being introduced by the Social Welfare (Budget) Bill 2017 and will take effect from 26 March 2018. In addition, farm/fish assist recipients are eligible to avail of the 250 additional places on the Rural Social Scheme which I announced as part of the Budget 2018 package.

14/12/2017WRXX01550Social Insurance Payments

14/12/2017WRXX01600688. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if persons in receipt of farm assist payments are eligible to pay PRSI; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53511/17]

14/12/2017WRXX01700Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): In general PRSI is payable on income which is subject to income tax. One of the exceptions to this is that PRSI is not chargeable on any social welfare payment. Farm assist is a means tested social assistance payment available to farmers on low income. Accordingly it is not subject to PRSI.

Farmers on low income may be required to pay PRSI on their self-employed income from farming. Self-employed farmers in receipt of farm assist are liable to pay PRSI at the class S rate of 4% on their self-employed income from farming, provided that income exceeds €5,000 in a contribution year.

Self-employed Class S contributors have access to the following benefits: State pension (contributory), widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s pension (contributory), guard- 363 Questions - Written Answers ian’s payment (contributory), maternity benefit, adoptive benefit, paternity benefit treatment benefits and, from December 2017, invalidity pension.

If income from self-employment, including income from farming, falls below €5,000 in a contribution year, he or she may opt to pay voluntary contributions. To become a voluntary contributor a person must:

- have paid at least 520 weeks PRSI in either employment or self-employment;

- apply within 60 months (5 years) after the end of the contribution year during which they last paid compulsory insurance or during which they were last awarded a credited contribution. In very exceptional circumstances this period may be extended at the discretion of the Minister.

The annual voluntary contribution charge for the self-employed is a special flat rate payment of €500. The payment of voluntary contributions allows the self-employed to maintain their PRSI record for the purposes of State pension (contributory), widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s contributory pension and guardian’s payment (contributory).

Question No. 689 withdrawn.

14/12/2017WRXX01804Departmental Staff Data

14/12/2017WRXX01809690. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Pro- tection the number of departmental staff, by departmental premises, and within statutory bodies under her remit and their grades who are employed in Drogheda. [53532/17]

14/12/2017WRXX01818Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The total number of Departmental staff, by premises and grade, working for my Department in Drogheda are summarised in the table as follows:

Department Assistant Higher Executive Clerical Of- Temporary Service Of- TOTAL Premises Principal Executive Officer ficer Clerical Of- ficer Officer ficer Intreo 1 9.8 14.1 21.2 1 1 48.1 Custom House Quay, Drogheda Intreo Dyer 0 6 2 4.8 2 0 14.8 St, Drogheda Total 1 15.8 16.1 26 3 1 62.9

14/12/2017WRXX01859Invalidity Pension Eligibility

14/12/2017WRXX01900691. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the reason self-employed persons who became disabled and as a result were unable to work in the past number of years are not entitled to invalidity pensions, even if they worked for many years prior to becoming disabled and for a few years were not in a position to make PRSI contributions, are now being penalised for this; her plans to amend the legislation to ensure that all self-employed persons who have become disabled will be entitled to an invalidity pension; if she will examine the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53538/17]

14/12/2017WRXX02000Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Self-employed people who earn €5,000 or more in a contribution year, are liable for PRSI at 364 14 December 2017 the class S rate of 4%, subject to a minimum annual payment of €500. This provides them with access to the following benefits: State pension (contributory), widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s pension (contributory), guardian’s payment (contributory), maternity benefit, adoptive benefit and paternity benefit.

Since March 2017, the self-employed have access to the treatment benefit scheme which includes free eye and dental examinations, and contributions towards the cost of hearing aids. Treatment benefit entitlements were also extended from October 2017 so as to provide further dental and optical benefits.

Even more significantly, self-employed contributors are now eligible for the invalidity pension from December 2017. For the first time, this gives the self-employed access to the safety net of State income supports if they become permanently incapable of work as a result of an illness or disability without having to go through a means test.

Invalidity pension (IP) is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the pay-related social insurance (PRSI) contribution conditions.

The PRSI contribution conditions are that the person must have at least 260 (5 years) paid contributions since entering social insurance and 48 contributions paid or credited in the last 2 complete contribution years before the date of their claim. PRSI classes A, E H and, since December 2017, S contributions are reckonable for IP purposes.

To date there is no record of receipt of a claim for IP from the person in question. Entitle- ment to IP can only be definitively determined on receipt of a completed claim form.

Persons who have an insufficient employment/PRSI record to qualify for a social insurance benefit/pension may apply for the appropriate means-tested social assistance scheme. For example, persons between the ages of 16 and 66 who are suffering from an illness or disability may, subject to satisfying the qualifying conditions, qualify for disability allowance (DA).

I trust that this clarifies the matter for the deputy.

14/12/2017WRXX02050Long-Term Illness Scheme Eligibility

14/12/2017WRXX02100692. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the entitlements of persons qualifying for the long-term illness scheme; her plans to make provision for persons within this category who do not receive a social welfare payment in their own right to be included in vocational training opportunities and employment schemes; if persons qualifying under the long-term illness scheme can be deemed eligible for workplace programmes and training courses even if they do not receive a social welfare payment; her further plans to review this scheme with the objective of making other supports available for persons within this category; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53555/17]

14/12/2017WRXX02200Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): This Government recognises the importance of increasing participation in employment for persons with a disability and is committed to removing any barriers that remain which prevent those persons with disabilities from participating in activation programmes and employment.

The long term illness (LTI) scheme is a Health Service Executive (HSE) scheme that allows people with certain conditions to obtain the drugs, medicines, and medical and surgical appliances directly related to the treatment of their illness, free of charge. In determining eligibility,

365 Questions - Written Answers no means test is involved.

For those who cannot earn a living because of sickness and/or disability, the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (DEASP) provides a range of income support payments. These schemes also provide access to supports that encourage and assist people on long-term illness and disability payments to identify and take up available employment, training, educational and other self-development opportunities, where this is appropriate to their circumstances and wishes.

People with disabilities who are not in receipt of an income support payment can voluntarily avail of the Department’s Intreo service, where they can obtain advice on job-search activities and the use of online job search tools. In addition, those who are not in receipt of qualifying payments may be eligible to avail of up-skilling opportunities, for example, through Education and Training Boards’ (ETBs) training courses. Moreover, Springboard and Skillnets courses for unemployed people, funded through the Department of Education and Skills, are also open to people regardless of their social welfare status. I understand that Solas also funds customised training for people with disabilities provided by a range of specialist training providers.

In addition to these options, the Department provides a range of supports to assist people with disabilities to get a job. These include a job coaching service provided through Employ- Ability, employment subsidies through the Wage Subsidy Scheme, workplace adaptation grants and specialist training courses that are specially designed for people with disabilities through the Reasonable Accommodation Fund. People with disabilities do not need to be in receipt of a DEASP income support payment to avail of these supports but do require supporting evidence from a medical practitioner to determine eligibility.

In summary, the Government is committed to supporting as many people as possible to participate more fully in employment and to become more self-sufficient by providing supports that address barriers they may encounter in finding and sustaining employment.

14/12/2017WRXX02250Illness Benefit Applications

14/12/2017WRXX02300693. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if illness benefit will be paid to a person (details supplied). [53558/17]

14/12/2017WRXX02400Minister of State at the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): Illness Benefit is payable in respect of incapacity for work due to illness to persons who satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions.

The claim from the person concerned has been approved and payment has been made to 8 December 2017, the last date of medical certification.

14/12/2017WRYY00150Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRYY00200694. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Pro- tection the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within her area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53567/17]

14/12/2017WRYY00300Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): My Department is responsible for the legislation underpinning the social welfare code and for a number of other areas of legislation. These are occupational and private pensions, civil regis- 366 14 December 2017 tration and gender recognition, redundancy and employer’s insolvency, employment rights and Citizens Information Board/Comhairle legislation.

A number of provisions of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005, as amended, have still to be commenced. In addition, some provisions of the Citizens Information Act 2007, as amended, the Civil Registration Act 2004, as amended, and the Pensions Act 1990, as amended, have still to be commenced.

Details of these provisions have been sent to the Deputy and can be found at the following link: [Social Wefare Consolidation Act 2005]

14/12/2017WRYY00350Unemployment Levels

14/12/2017WRYY00400695. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the status of progress on the programme for Government commitment to implement the pathways to work five-year strategy which aims to help 50,000 long-term unemployed persons into jobs. [53661/17]

14/12/2017WRYY00500Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The target was to move 50,000 people, who were long-term unemployed at the beginning of 2016, into employment by the end of 2020.

The number of people who were long-term unemployed at the beginning of 2016 was approximately 144,000. By the end of September 2017, almost 42,000 of these people had moved into employment. The rate of exit to employment is therefore running some way ahead of the target level.

14/12/2017WRYY00550State Pension (Contributory) Applications

14/12/2017WRYY00600696. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if an application for a State pension (contributory) by a person (details supplied) will be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53713/17]

14/12/2017WRYY00700Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The person concerned was awarded a mixed rate insurance pro rata state pension (contributory) from 2 May 2017, their 66th birthday. Written notification of this decision issued on 10 April 2017.

Following a requested review of the person’s pension entitlement, it was ascertained that all of the person’s social insurance contributions had not been included in the initial pension calculation. The person’s social insurance record has since been updated on the basis of information now available to my Department. A revised decision has been made, awarding an increased rate of state pension (contributory), effective from 2 May 2017, the person’s original date of pension award. The person concerned has been notified in writing of this decision on 20 November 2017, together with details of arrears due.

Additionally, my Department is investigating the person’s employment record for the period 2002 to 2013. The Department wrote to the person’s previous employer on 28 September 2017 and a reminder issued on 15 November 2017. A reply has not been received to date. 367 Questions - Written Answers Once the Department decides on the insurability, or otherwise, of the queried period(s) of employment, the person’s pension entitlement will be reviewed. The person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome of that review without delay.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRYY00750Youth Unemployment Measures

14/12/2017WRYY00800697. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the status of progress on pathways to work 2016-2020 to reduce the ratio between youth and overall unemployment from 2.2:1 to less than 2:1 by the end of 2017. [53795/17]

14/12/2017WRYY00900Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The average values for overall unemployment, youth unemployment, and the ratio between them for the years 2012 to 2016 are as follows:

- Unemployment rate (%) Year Total Aged >25 Ratio of youth to total 2012 14.7 30.4 2.07 2013 13.1 26.7 2.05 2014 11.3 23.9 2.13 2015 9.4 20.9 2.21 2016 7.9 17.2 2.17

Full-year and end of year unemployment figures for 2017 will not be available until early- mid 2018 when the Labour Force Survey for Q4 2017 is published.

14/12/2017WRYY00950Exceptional Needs Payment Applications

14/12/2017WRYY01000698. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will reconsider refusal of an exceptional needs payment in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53927/17]

14/12/2017WRYY01100Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The person concerned made an application for an Exceptional Needs Payment (ENP) to assist with the cost of a replacement cooker. As a payment of €310.00 was awarded in September 2015 to purchase this item, the Designated Person adjudged that this particular need had been recently met and given the general durability of such items it was reasonable to expect that this item would be in full working order for more than two years. For this reason the application submitted by the person concerned was disallowed.

I trust this information is of assistance to you.

14/12/2017WRYY01150Jobseeker’s Allowance Applications

14/12/2017WRYY01200699. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection when a jobseeker’s allowance application will be approved in the case of a person

368 14 December 2017 (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53930/17]

14/12/2017WRYY01300Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): An application for jobseeker’s allowance is currently pending as documentation requested from the person concerned remains outstanding. When the requested outstanding documentation is received by the Department the application will be processed and the person concerned will be advised of the decision.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRYY01350Exceptional Needs Payment Applications

14/12/2017WRYY01400700. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection further to previous parliamentary questions in the case of a person (details supplied), if an exceptional needs payment will be reconsidered as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53932/17]

14/12/2017WRYY01500Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Ac- cording to the records of this Department the person concerned has not submitted an application for an exceptional needs payment. It is open to the person concerned to submit an application for financial assistance if she does not have sufficient means to meet her needs. A community welfare officer will phone her regarding her situation.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRYY01550Social Insurance Fund

14/12/2017WRYY01600701. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection further to previous parliamentary questions in respect of a preferential claim against a person (details supplied), if this can be taken into account in the determination of the person’s case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53935/17]

14/12/2017WRYY01700Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Department deals with employers who owe a debt to the Social Insurance Fund in line with its debt management policy and procedures.

I would urge the person in question to engage with the Department’s employer debt management unit to discuss their financial situation and capacity to repay their debt. They can contact the unit on (01) 673 4549 or at [email protected].

14/12/2017WRYY01750Carer’s Allowance Applications

14/12/2017WRYY01800702. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the status of an application for a carer’s allowance by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54011/17]

14/12/2017WRYY01900Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I confirm that my department received an application for carer’s allowance (CA) from the person concerned on 4 August 2017.

CA is a means-tested social assistance payment made to a person who is habitually resident 369 Questions - Written Answers in the State and who is providing full-time care and attention to a person who has such a disability that they require that level of care.

The matter was referred to a local social welfare inspector (SWI) on 13 November 2017 to assess the level of care being provided, assess means and confirm that all conditions for receipt of CA are satisfied.

Evidence gathered by the SWI indicates that the care recipient has been hospitalised since 8 September 2017.

Discharge papers were requested from the person concerned on 30 November 2017. Once this information is received the application will be processed without delay and the person concerned notified directly of the outcome.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRYY01950Disability Allowance Applications

14/12/2017WRYY02000703. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the status of an application for a disability allowance by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54015/17]

14/12/2017WRYY02100Minister of State at the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): I confirm that my department received an application - fordis ability allowance from this gentleman on 31 October 2017. On completion of the necessary investigations on all aspects of the claim a decision will be made and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome.

The processing time for individual disability allowance claims may vary in accordance with their relative complexity in terms of the three main qualifying criteria, the person’s circumstances and the information they provide in support of their claim.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRYY02150Community Employment Schemes Operation

14/12/2017WRYY02200704. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion if managers of local community employment schemes are permitted to request financial contributions from community groups to support the running costs of the scheme; if so, the relevant guidelines regarding requests for such financial donations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54058/17]

14/12/2017WRYY02300Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The aim of Community Employment (CE) is to enhance the employability and mobility of disadvantaged and unemployed persons by providing work experience and training opportunities for them within their communities. In addition, it helps long-term unemployed people to re-enter the active workforce by breaking their experience of unemployment through a return to work routine.

CE projects are typically sponsored by groups wishing to benefit the local community, namely voluntary and community organisations. Such projects provide a valuable service to local communities while at the same time providing training and educational opportunities to

370 14 December 2017 jobseekers.

The Department’s priority in supporting CE is having access to schemes that can provide job seekers and other vulnerable groups with good quality work experience and training qualifications to support their progression into employment.

My Department provides funding towards the cost of employee wages (CE supervisors and participants), as well as material funding necessary for the effective operation of the scheme and training costs for participants.

The sponsor of a CE scheme is also aware that matching funds may be required to meet project costs. Such other funding requirements are not generally part of the Department’s remit. However if a sponsor or a community group has a specific concern related to their CE scheme, they should contact the Community Development Officer with responsibility for the scheme in their local Intreo Centre.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

14/12/2017WRYY02350Departmental Schemes

14/12/2017WRYY02400705. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the in-work training and upskilling schemes funded by her Department, in tabular form; the number of persons in each such scheme; the funding provided in 2016 and 2017; and the budget allocation for 2018. [54127/17]

14/12/2017WRYY02500Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection has no functions in relation to the funding of in-work training for people in employment.

14/12/2017WRYY02550Labour Activation Measures

14/12/2017WRYY02600706. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the labour market activation measures and schemes by her Department that are being deployed to reduce long-term unemployment, in tabular form; the number of persons in each such scheme; the funding provided in 2016 and 2017; and the budget allocation for 2018. [54128/17]

14/12/2017WRYY02700Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Government’s primary strategy to tackle unemployment – including long-term unemployment – is twofold. The Action Plan for Jobs supports continuing strong economic recovery and employment growth. Policies and actions to ensure that unemployed people benefit from the increase in employment are set out in the strategy paper Pathways to Work 2016-2020.

To date, these policies have been effective in reducing long-term unemployment.

For example, the most recent data show that the rate of long-term unemployment in Ireland has fallen from a peak of 9.5% in 2012 to 3.1%, Q2 2017.

Long-term unemployment can be expected to fall further this year and next in line with the continuing forecast fall in overall unemployment.

Policy continues to focus on support for the long-term unemployed. For example, the Path- ways to Work 2016-2020 strategy prioritises long-term unemployed people – most notably

371 Questions - Written Answers through the roll-out of JobPath to engage more systematically with this group; through targeted wage subsidies under JobsPlus; and through reserved places for long-term unemployed jobseekers on employment and training programmes.

The out-turn for 2016 and the budget allocations for 2017 and 2018 for the main programmes impacting on the long-term unemployed, provided by the Department of Employment and So- cial Affairs, is given in Table 1. While not all participants in these programmes are necessarily long-term unemployed prior to taking up places, this is the case for the vast majority of participants on Community Employment, Tús, Gateway, and JobsPlus, and for a significant proportion of the participants on the remaining schemes.

Table 1 Activation Measure Funding.

Activation Measure 2016 €000 2017 €000 2018 €000 COMMUNITY 356,341 353,000 350,530 EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMME TÚS 118,604 124,820 100,100 BACK TO WORK 124,383 119,560 101,680 ENTERPRISE AL- LOWANCE JOBBRIDGE 37,793 15,000 1,000 BACK TO EDU- 114,829 105,000 72,950 CATION ALLOW- ANCE GATEWAY 21,183 7,250 470 JOBSPLUS 23,679 20,400 30,000 The number of activation places on these programmes in 2016 and 2017 is given in Table 2:

Table 2

Activation Measure Places 2016 2017 Community Employment 22040 21670 (excluding supervisors) * TUS - community work 7419 6359 placement initiative * Back to work enterprise al- 11077 10017 lowance * JobBridge * 3390 0 Gateway * 839 67 Jobplus ~ 8422 8624 * Number of participants November ~Number of persons for which a payment was made during the year 2016 and year-to-date 2017.

14/12/2017WRZZ00200National Internship Scheme Data

372 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRZZ00300707. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the number of persons in nationally accredited internships; the number of internships in the public and private sectors; the regulatory framework concerning persons in internship schemes or nationally accredited internships; and the national minimum wage [54129/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ00400Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): My Department is not responsible for nationally accredited internships, so cannot provide the information requested in respect of them.

The Department has responsibility for First Steps, which, while not an accredited internship, is a work experience programme. The programme is targeted at young unemployed people aged 18-24 who face significant barriers in their efforts to gain employment – people who even during the Celtic Tiger period would have found it difficult to get a foothold on the career lad- der.

Host organisations are encouraged to provide them with the opportunity to learn and develop basic work and social skills in a supportive environment while on a work placement.

The programme is entirely voluntary. The standard duration of a placement is three months, with an option to extend to six or nine months. Participants receive an allowance equivalent to their underlying social welfare payment plus an additional top-up allowance of €52.50 per week as a contribution towards expenses arising from their participation on the programme. Participants are supported by a by a mentor assigned by the Host Organisation and dedicated case worker from the Department and.

The programme is open to organisations in private, public, and voluntary and community sectors. There are currently 75 participants on the programme - 67 on placements in the private and community/voluntary sector, and 8 in the public sector.

Host Organisations are required to agree Terms and Conditions and agree a Standard Agree- ment with the participant outlining the intended learning outcomes and the terms and conditions of the placement. Comprehensive guidelines are available on the Department’s website at www.welfare.ie .

First Steps is now closed to new applications to facilitate an orderly wind down of the programme in preparation for the introduction of the new Youth Employment Support Scheme in Quarter 2, 2018. Participants on the new programme will receive a payment equivalent to the net minimum wage for the hours of attendance.

The National Minimum Wage, currently €9.25 per hour, will increase to €9.55 per hour from 1 January 2018. Figures released by the Central Statistics Office in April 2017, based on questions relating to the National Minimum Wage (NMW) included in the Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) in Quarters 2, 3 and 4 2016, indicate that an average of approximately 155,100 employees reported earning NMW or less for each of the three quarters from Quarter 2 to Quarter 4 in 2016. This represents approximately one in ten employees. The CSO suggest that some caution is advised in comparing these results to data collected directly from business enterprises in that this is self-reported income. ESRI research, based on 2014 and 2015 (latest available) Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) data, showed the incidence of employees on the NMW at 5.1 and 5.5 percent respectively (based on the then NMW of €8.65). These figures represent approximately one in twenty employees.

14/12/2017WRZZ00500Youth Unemployment Data

373 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRZZ00600708. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the rate of youth unemployment here; the way in which this compares with the EU average, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54155/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ00700Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The rate of youth unemployment was 14.0% in October 2017. This compares with the most recent available EU figure (from EUROSTAT) of 18.6% as at October 2017.

Reflecting the impact of government policy, and the overall improvement in the labour market, the rate of youth unemployment has fallen sharply from a peak of over 31.1% in 2012. At that time, the EU youth unemployment rate was 23.1%. Irish youth unemployment has thus fallen from well above the EU average in 2012 to significantly below the average at the end of 2017.

While this improvement is welcome, the Government recognises the importance of a continued focus on measures to facilitate young unemployed people find and sustain employment.

The key objective of Ireland’s policy response to the EU Recommendation on a Youth Guar- antee is to help newly unemployed young people find and secure sustainable jobs. In this regard there is monthly engagement by case officers with young people to assist them to prepare, review and, if appropriate, revise personal progression plans. Where young people do not find work relatively quickly, additional supports may be offered, both through reserved places on existing employment and training schemes and through youth-specific measures. Most such offers (over 70%) are in existing further education or training programmes. Others are in existing community-based employment programmes such as CE, Gateway and Tús. Pathways to Work 2016-2020 continues to prioritise these measures for the young unemployed and further commits to a number of additional measures.

I am confident these measures, and continuing economic recovery, will support further reductions in youth unemployment and add to the substantial improvements that have already been seen over the last few years.

14/12/2017WRZZ00800Unemployment Levels

14/12/2017WRZZ00900709. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the rate of unemployment for persons with a disability here; the way in which this compares with the EU average in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54156/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ01000Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): As information on disability status is not collected routinely as part of the EU Labour Force Sur- vey, there are no regular official data on unemployment among people with disabilities for many EU countries or for the EU on average.

An approximate indicator for the information sought, for 2014, is provided by a once-off study by the Centre for European Social and Economic Policy (CESEP ASBL) on behalf of the Academic Network of European Disability Experts (ANED). These data are drawn from the EU-SILC survey, which is not designed to produce labour market information, so should not be taken as precise unemployment measures.

The ANED 2014 unemployment estimates for people with and without disabilities are given in the following table, together with the official overall unemployment rate for comparison purposes:

374 14 December 2017 - ANED unemployment measure, 2014 (%) Actual unemployment rate 2014 (%) People with dis- Without All All abilities EU 19.6 11.3 12.6 10.2 IE 31.7 15.2 16.6 11.3 The data suggest the ANED estimate overstates unemployment (relative to the official figure) to a greater extent for Ireland than for the EU on average, but that the relationship between overall unemployment and that for people with disabilities is broadly similar in the two areas.

The data may also be affected by differences in the reported prevalence of disability among people of working age, which was significantly lower in Ireland (17.7%) than in the EU on average (27.1%).

14/12/2017WRZZ01100Child Poverty

14/12/2017WRZZ01200710. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the Government’s child poverty target; the likelihood of this target being reached within the timeframe set; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54157/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ01300Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The national social target for poverty reduction agreed by Government in 2012 is to reduce consistent poverty to 4% by 2016 and to 2% or less by 2020. There is a specific child poverty sub-target which is to lift over 70,000 children out of consistent poverty by 2020 (from a 2011 baseline of 111,000).

In the event, the number of children in consistent poverty rose sharply after 2011, to a peak of 152,000 in 2014, before falling back to 139,000 in 2015. Some 102,000 children would have to be lifted out of consistent poverty between 2015 and 2020 to meet the 2020 child poverty target.

However, the full impact of the recovery is not reflected in the most recent data, which relate to 2015. Macro-economic and labour market indicators have shown continued economic and employment growth since then. Unemployment has fallen from 9.4% in mid-2015 to 6.1% now. The number of people in receipt of working-age income and employment supports has also continued to fall. In addition, Budget 2018 introduced increases in a range of supports including €5 per week increases in the maximum weekly rate for working-age people and young jobseekers and for pensioners, with proportionate increases for adult dependents and an increase of €2 per child per week for qualified child dependents. These increases will assist those individuals and families who are most in need.

Given the continuing economic recovery throughout 2016 and 2017 and measures introduced in Budgets 2016, 2017 and 2018, I expect the figures for those years, when they become available, to show further improvement over the 2015 outcomes. I will continue to work with my Government colleagues to ensure that the economic recovery is experienced in all regions and by all families, households and individuals.

375 Questions - Written Answers child poverty. My Department is reviewing the Plan, as it reaches the end of its current term this year, with a view to developing an updated plan for future periods. The Department is also reviewing the national social target for poverty reduction, including the child poverty target. This review will be undertaken in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

14/12/2017WRZZ01400Poverty Data

14/12/2017WRZZ01500711. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the national social target for poverty reduction; the likelihood of this target being reached within the timeframe set; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54158/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ01600Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The national social target for poverty reduction agreed by Government in 2012 is to reduce consistent poverty from 6.3% in 2010 to 4% by 2016 and to 2% or less by 2020. The child poverty target is to lift over 70,000 children out of consistent poverty by 2020 (from a 2011 baseline figure of 111,000).

Data from the CSO Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) indicate that in fact consistent poverty rose sharply after 2010, to a peak of 9.1% in 2013. The latest data indicate that there was some reduction after 2013, to 8.7% in 2015. A reduction of almost 7 percentage points would now be required to meet the 2020 poverty target.

Similarly, the number of children in consistent poverty rose sharply after 2011, to a peak of 152,000 in 2014, before falling back to 139,000 in 2015. Some 102,000 children would have to be lifted out of consistent poverty between 2015 and 2020 to meet the 2020 child poverty target.

The Government’s strategy for addressing poverty and social exclusion is set out in the Na- tional Action Plan for Social Inclusion. The Plan identifies a wide range of targeted actions and interventions to achieve the overall objective of reducing consistent poverty. My Department is reviewing the Plan, as it reaches the end of its current term this year, with a view to developing an updated plan for future periods. As part of this update, the Department is also reviewing the national social target for poverty reduction. This review will be undertaken in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

14/12/2017WRZZ01700Rent Supplement Scheme Data

376 14 December 2017

14/12/2017WRZZ01800712. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Pro- tection the number of households in each county in the years 2012 to 2017 in receipt of rent supplement; the number of households in those years that have had their rent supplement increased over and above the standard rate set for each local authority in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54159/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ01900Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Rent supplement plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme supporting some 35,000 recipients for which the Government has provided €232 million for 2017 (following the completion of the Supplementary Estimates process).

A breakdown by county of rent supplements recipients under the scheme in respect of the period from December 2012 to the end of November 2017 is provided in the table. The strategic initiative of returning rent supplement to its original purpose, that of a short term income support, facilitated by the introduction of the HAP scheme, has been the main driver in rent supplement’s base decline with some 30,800 tenants currently in receipt of HAP.

In recognition of the ongoing rental market difficulties, my Department continues to implement a targeted case-by-case policy approach in the administration of rent supplement that allows for flexibility where landlords seek rents in excess of the rent limits. In addition, the Protocol arrangement in place with Threshold continues to operate in the areas where supply issues are particularly acute covering Dublin, Cork, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow and Galway City. To date in 2017, approximately 1,650 recipients have been supported with increased rental payment support. A breakdown of increased rental payment support by county for the last 3 years is also provided in the table.

I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.

Tabular Statement: Rent Supplement Recipients by County .

County 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Nov-17 Carlow 1,239 1,108 1,086 962 593 399 Cavan 519 455 414 403 391 302 Clare 1,722 1,547 1,336 1,024 423 191 Cork 9,878 9,020 8,273 6,822 4,958 3,618 Donegal 2,411 2,047 1,812 1,202 415 146 Dublin 32,584 29,541 26,453 23,758 20,561 16,573 Galway 4,134 3,983 3,591 3,326 2,506 1,754 Kerry 2,037 1,888 1,736 1,633 1,554 1,156 Kildare 4,338 4,135 3,698 3,396 2,579 1,915 Kilkenny 1,365 1,210 1,011 554 319 191 Laois 1,097 1,085 1,008 978 871 574 Leitrim 374 354 324 331 281 182 Limerick 3,323 2,984 2,461 1,441 954 745 Longford 511 507 476 384 401 252 Louth 2,549 2,422 2,211 1,462 859 481 Mayo 2,435 1,900 1,619 1,528 1,074 633 Meath 2,143 1,941 1,726 1,528 1,001 577 Monaghan 438 395 352 269 188 143 Offaly 1,240 1,124 1,041 812 563 253 Roscommon 997 802 687 611 566 398 Sligo 591 542 451 478 289 129 Tipperary 2,199 2,094 1,961 1,674 901 442

377 Questions - Written Answers

County 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Nov-17 Waterford 1,773 1,556 1,443 958 590 201 Westmeath 1,592 1,588 1,533 1,426 1,299 862 Wexford 3,700 3,179 2,700 2,296 1,960 1,373 Wicklow 2,495 2,381 2,130 1,991 1,945 1,571 Total 87,684 79,788 71,533 61,247 48,041 35,061 Tabular Statement: Increased Rental Payments by County

COUNTY 2015 2016 2017 to Date Total CARLOW 24 48 19 91 CAVAN 13 49 19 81 CLARE 60 0 0 60 CORK 305 245 8 558 DONEGAL - - - - DUBLIN 3,860 2,680 916 7,456 GALWAY 112 94 16 222 KERRY 25 156 118 299 KILDARE 228 313 133 674 KILKENNY 112 23 5 140 LAOIS 101 18 0 119 LEITRIM 48 49 11 108 LIMERICK 7 1 10 18 LONGFORD 95 214 25 334 LOUTH 77 77 41 195 MAYO 3 0 13 16 MEATH 256 173 47 476 MONAGHAN 1 0 0 1 OFFALY 51 13 10 74 ROSCOMMON 13 40 36 89 SLIGO 0 1 0 1 TIPPERARY 165 118 45 328 WATERFORD 27 35 8 70 WESTMEATH 94 271 36 401 WEXFORD 7 15 2 24 WICKLOW 97 277 133 507 TOTAL 5,781 4,910 1,651 12,342

14/12/2017WRZZ02000Jobseeker’s Payments

14/12/2017WRZZ02100713. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the number of persons aged 65 years and over in receipt of a jobseeker’s payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54160/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ02200Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I am informed that at the end of November 2017 there were 5,744 persons that were 65 years of age and over in receipt of a jobseeker’s payment and a further 3,324 persons signing for jobseeker’s credits.

378 14 December 2017 Question No. 714 withdrawn.

14/12/2017WRZZ02400Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRZZ02500715. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the use her Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54195/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ02600Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I travelled with An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD on the Government Jet on Thursday 16 Novem- ber from Dublin to Gothenburg, and again on Friday, 17 November from Gothenburg to Dublin.

14/12/2017WRZZ02700Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRZZ02800716. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the use her Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54211/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ02900Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Government Jet was used by Joan Burton TD as Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection and Leo Varadkar TD as Minister for Social Protection during the dates March 2011 to February 2016 as follows:

Date of travel Destination 3rd October 2012 Outwards to Brussels to meet with College of Commissioners travelled with Taoiseach 27th February 2013 Outwards to Brussels to attend EPSCO 19th June 2013 Outwards to Luxembourg to attend EPSCO 3rd July 2013 Berlin return, travelled with Taoiseach to attend a conference on Youth Employment 12th November 2013 Return from Paris with Taoiseach, meeting with President Hollande and conference on youth employment 7th February 2014 Paris and return to Baldonnel, to attend OECD meeting 17th & 18th July 2014 Milan and return to Baldonnel , to attend Informal Ministerial conference 8th October 2014 Milan and return to Baldonnel, attend employment conference 14th January 2016 Outwards to Paris to attend OECD Confer- ence

14/12/2017WRZZ03000Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRZZ03100717. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the photography costs for her Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers 379 Questions - Written Answers within her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54227/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ03200Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Photography services are used, in conjunction with some press releases and conferences, to communicate the Department’s initiatives, schemes and services to customers and to the regional and national media. Since March 2011, photography services were used for the occasions as set out in the table.

The procurement of these photography services is carried out in accordance with national and EU procurement procedures.

I do not use my ministerial allowance for this purpose.

Year: 2011 Details Photographer Cost (€) 29-Jul-11 Launch of JobBridge Maxwells 1,035.16 16-Aug-11 Departmental North/ Kevin Morris Photogra- 950 South Summer School, phy Maynooth 07-Nov-11 Mortgage Arrears Semi- Ark Photography 254.1 nar 09-Nov-11 Social Inclusion Forum Ark Photography and 547.5 Dragana Jurisic 21-Nov-11 2 Social Inclusion Proj- Ark Photography 326.7 ects Total 2011: €3,113.46 Year: 2012 Details Photographer Cost (€) 13-Feb-12 Launch of ‘Partial Maxwells 338.25 Capacity’ and ‘Employ- ability’ 23-Feb-12 Launch of Pathways to Maxwells 536.28 Work 27-Apr-12 Opening of Community Lensmen 280.44 Campus in Phibblestown 06-Sep-12 Launch of Mortgage Ark Photography 258.3 Information Helpline 13-Sep-12 Launch of Good Prac- Ark Photography 184.5 tice Guide for Breakfast Clubs 17-Sep-12 Presentation of Report Ark Photography 184.5 of the Actuarial Review of the Social Insurance Fund 15-Oct-12 Launch of Intreo, Sligo Joe Travers 300 19-Oct-12 Intreo roadshow in Picsure Ltd (Kieran 233.7 Limerick Clancy) 26-Oct-12 Employer roadshow in Joe Travers 125 Galway 01-Nov-12 Employer roadshow in Tony O’Connell Photog- 227 Cork raphy 16-Nov-12 Employer roadshow in Ark Photography 258.3 Dublin Total 2012: €2,926.27 Year: 2013 Details Photographer Cost (€) 22-Mar-13 Launch of Intreo in Tal- Lensmen 323.48 laght

380 14 December 2017

Year: 2011 Details Photographer Cost (€) 16-Apr-13 Launch of JobBridge MacMonagle Photogra- 338.25 Arts in Killarney phy 19-Apr-13 Briefing for Employ- Lensmen 851.25 ers in Blanchardstown and Launch of Intreo in Blanchardstown) 01-May-13 Publication of Indecon Lensmen 589.79 Report on JobBridge 02-May-13 EU Presidency Confer- Peter Cavanagh 707.25 ence, Leuven 10-May-13 Kilkenny Intreo Vicky Comerford 123 18-Jul-13 Launch of Pathways to Maxwells 482.16 Work 25-Sep-13 Inaugural Meeting of the Maxwells 424.35 Labour Market Advisory Council 22-Nov-13 Launch of Intreo in Joe Travers 225 Loughrea Total 2013: €4,064.53

Year: 2014 Details Photographer Cost (€) 15-Jan-14 Launch of Benefit of Ark Photography 322.88 Work ready reckoner and official opening of Intreo in Ballyfermot office 20-Jan-14 Official opening of Intreo Kieran Clancy 221.4 in Limerick 21-Feb-14 Official opening of Intreo Joe Travers 300 in Castlebar 03-Apr-14 Medical Assessor Admin Bobby Studios Photog- 270.6 Conference raphy 06-Jun-14 Launch of Interim Re- Ark Photography 258.3 port of Labour Market Council Total 2014 €1,373.18 Year: 2015 Details Photographer Cost (€) 24-Apr-15 Tánaiste meeting with Mac Innes Photography €246.32 French Prime Minister in Leinster House 28-Sep-15 Launch of Jobs Week Maxwell Photography €413.28 11-Nov-15 Launch of Intreo in Joe Travers Photography €175.00 Galway Total 2015 €834.60 Year: 2016 Details Photographer Cost (€) 16/02/2016 MIS1 Photography at Robbie Reynolds Pho- €553.50 Official Opening of tography Clondalkin Intreo Centre 24/02/2016 MIS1 Photography at Maxwell Photography €645.75 Launch of Pathways to Ltd Work 2016 to 2020

Total 2016 €1,199.25 Year: 2017 Details Photographer Cost (€)

381 Questions - Written Answers

Year: 2011 Details Photographer Cost (€) 02/02/2017 Official Opening of Photocall Ireland €92.25 Elizabeth O’Farrell House with Mrs Sabrina Higgins 06/02/2017 Launch of Healthy You Son Photographic Ltd €307.50 Early Intervention Forum T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 06/02/2017 Portrait photography of Son Photographic Ltd €501.76 Management Board. T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 03/03/2017 Portrait photography of Son Photographic Ltd €307.50 Management Board. T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 03/03/2017 Portrait photography of Son Photographic Ltd €307.50 Management Board. T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 19/04/2017 Launch of ‘MyGovID’ Son Photographic Ltd €430.50 online services T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 24/04/2017 Launch of ‘Make Work Son Photographic Ltd €442.80 Pay’ Report T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 24/04/2017 Launch of ‘Treatment Son Photographic Ltd €464.33 Benefit Awareness Cam- T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- paign tography 04/05/2017 Purchasing Photography Charlie Collins t/a Col- €163.03 Stock from Jobs Week lins Photo Agency 2016 04/05/2017 Purchasing Photography Charlie Collins t/a Col- €163.03 Stock lins Photo Agency 11/05/2017 Launch of ‘Welfare Son Photographic Ltd €430.50 Cheats’ awareness cam- T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- paign tography 30/06/2017 Senior Management Son Photographic Ltd €195.50 Day Event and Portrait T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- Photography tography 30/06/2017 Senior Management Son Photographic Ltd €850.00 Day Event and Portrait T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- Photography tography 04/09/2017 Launch of Fuel Al- Son Photographic Ltd €87.40 lowance Information T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- Campaign tography 04/09/2017 Launch of Fuel Al- Son Photographic Ltd €380.00 lowance Information T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- Campaign tography 05/10/2017 Purchase of Stock Pho- Photocall Ireland €92.25 tography from 2016 05/10/2017 Photography of Intreo Son Photographic Ltd €66.70 Centre for stock photog- T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- raphy tography 05/10/2017 Launch of new ‘Abil- Son Photographic Ltd €80.50 ity’ Programme to help T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- people into employment tography

382 14 December 2017

Year: 2011 Details Photographer Cost (€) 05/10/2017 Photography of Intreo Son Photographic Ltd €290.00 Centre for stock photog- T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- raphy tography 05/10/2017 Launch of new ‘Abil- Son Photographic Ltd €350.00 ity’ Programme to help T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- people into employment tography 23/10/2017 Jobs Week - Dublin Son Photographic Ltd €57.50 Castle Event T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 23/10/2017 Jobs Week - Navan Event Son Photographic Ltd €73.03 T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 23/10/2017 Jobs Week - Dublin Son Photographic Ltd €250.00 Castle Event T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 23/10/2017 Jobs Week - Navan Event Son Photographic Ltd €317.50 T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Photo for BTSCFA Son Photographic Ltd €395.00 Launch T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Photo for BTSCFA Son Photographic Ltd €90.85 Launch T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Photo for Paternity Ben- Son Photographic Ltd €250.00 efit Campaign Launch T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Photo for Paternity Ben- Son Photographic Ltd €57.50 efit Campaign Launch T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Photo for Treatment Ben- Son Photographic Ltd €395.00 efits Announcement T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Photo for Treatment Son Photographic Ltd €90.85 Benefits Announcement T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Announcement of Gen- Son Photographic Ltd €350.00 der Recognition Act T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 Announcement of Gen- Son Photographic Ltd €80.50 der Recognition Act T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 30/11/2017 DEASP 70 Year An- Son Photographic Ltd €492.50 niversary Open Policy T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- Conference tography 30/11/2017 DEASP 70 Year An- Son Photographic Ltd €113.28 niversary Open Policy T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- Conference tography 07/12/2017 NCI DEASP Graduation Son Photographic Ltd €360.00 Event T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography 07/12/2017 NCI DEASP Graduation Son Photographic Ltd €82.80 Event T/A Shane O’Neill Pho- tography Total 2017 to date €9,459.36

383 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRZZ03300Public Relations Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRZZ03400718. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the use of external public relations firms employed by her Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54243/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ03500Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Department is currently collating this information and will respond to the Deputy shortly.

14/12/2017WRZZ03600Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRZZ03700719. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Pro- tection the external consultant reports commissioned by her Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54259/17]

14/12/2017WRZZ03800Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The information requested is currently being compiled by my Department and will be provided to the Deputy as soon as possible .

14/12/2017WRAAA00200Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRAAA00300720. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the level of expenditure by her Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54275/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA00400Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): My Department administers over 70 separate schemes and services, which affect the lives of almost every person in the State. In 2016, some 1.7 million applications for benefit, assistance and access to schemes were received and processed, and over 82 million individual payments were made to people across all age groups and to employers. The Department is fully committed to ensuring that members of the general public are fully aware of the welfare supports and services available to them.

The Department’s public information/advertising campaigns span national and regional print media and radio, digital, bus/LUAS and social media advertising. Advertising is targeted appropriately through the best mix of media to ensure that the Department’s messages reach the target customer cohorts.

All advertising expenditure undertaken by the Department is tendered for in accordance with Government and EU procurement guidelines using the framework agreement of the Office of Government Procurement (OGP).

Details of the campaigns undertaken in 2017 are set out in the table which follows:

384 14 December 2017

Campaign Name National and Regional Online Advertising Cost Total Campaign Costs Newspaper Advertising -Digital and Social Me- (including all newspa- Costs (EX VAT) dia (Ex VAT) per, radio, outdoor and online advertising)(EX VAT) Back to School Clothing €13,071.00 NA 55,409.02 & Footwear Fuel Allowance €10,356.00 NA 54,376.89 Sum(August) Fuel Allowance Lump €10,356.00 NA 43,813.38 Sum (November- reminder) Invalidity Pension (De- €22,357.00 €7,941.00 75,140.39 cember) Jobsweek 2017 ( Sep- NA €2,049.00 3,147.15 tember) MyGovID (February) €16,456.00 €40,076.00 59,848.34 National Minimum Wage €25,802.00 €6,000.00 46,498.25 (December) Paternity Benefit (July/ €16,093.00 €18,363.00 106,823.15 August) Treatment Benefit (April) €21,762.00 €4,512.00 87,715.61 Treatment Benefit (No- €25,951.00 €10,468.43 78,887.75 vember) Welfare Fraud (April) €17,098.00 €13,517.00 163,923.36

14/12/2017WRAAA00500Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRAAA00600721. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protec- tion the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Depart- ment from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54291/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA00700Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Department is currently collating the information required and will provide it to the Deputy shortly.

14/12/2017WRAAA00800Maternity Benefit

14/12/2017WRAAA00900722. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection further to Question No. 490 of 5 December 2017, if a reduced benefit will be made available to premature babies born prior to 1 October 2017 who were in neonatal care when the cut-off came into force in view of the commencement date for the additional leave and the fact that it cannot be extended to before 1 October 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54303/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA01000Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Ma- ternity leave legislation provides a 26 week period of statutory maternity leave. Subject to the provisions of social welfare legislation, the 26-week period of core statutory maternity leave attracts a social insurance payment of maternity benefit.

385 Questions - Written Answers On 3 October 2017 I, together with Minister Flanagan announced increased maternity leave and maternity benefit for mothers whose babies are born prematurely on or after 1 October.

The Government decided that the additional maternity leave and benefit would be available for mothers of premature babies born on or after 1 October 2017. There are no plans to extend the new arrangements to mothers of premature babies born before that date or to introduce an additional reduced rate payment in respect of premature babies born before that date.

The additional period will commence at the end of the standard 26 week period of paid maternity leave. The extended period to be added will be the number of weeks from the baby’s actual date of birth up to two weeks before the expected date of confinement which would have been the 37th week of the pregnancy, at which point the current entitlement to 26 weeks leave and benefit would normally begin.

A mother can also take a further 16 weeks unpaid maternity leave which must be taken immediately after the end of her paid maternity leave. This period is not covered by maternity benefit but a mother is entitled to a credited social insurance contribution for each week of unpaid leave that is taken (up to the maximum of 16).

Legislation currently allows for the postponement of maternity leave and maternity benefit for up to six months with the employer’s agreement in cases where the child is hospitalised. In these cases entitlement to maternity leave and benefit continues after the period of postponement for a maximum of twelve weeks.

Eligible parents can also avail of two weeks paid paternity leave at any time within the first 26 weeks following the birth or date of placement of the child. Paternity benefit is available for employed and self-employed people who are on paternity leave from work and covered by social insurance (PRSI) contributions. Paternity leave and paternity benefit can also be postponed for up to six months in cases where the child is hospitalised.

Parents also have an entitlement to parental leave which is unpaid. Since 8 March 2013 the amount of parental leave available for each child amounts to a total of 18 working weeks per child. Both parents have an equal separate entitlement to parental leave.

I have no plans for further changes to the maternity benefit provisions at present.

14/12/2017WRAAA01100Irish Water Administration

14/12/2017WRAAA01200723. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the net cost to Ervia and Irish Water from administering domestic water charges including the recent administration cost of refunds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53904/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA01300Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The costs to support the administration of domestic water charges across printing, postage, billing and the contact centre for the period April 2015 to February 2016 were €31.65m. Ad- vertising costs of €2.85m were also incurred, including in relation to Registration, the Water Conservation Grant and the First-Fix scheme, up to 31 December 2015.

The Water Services Act 2017 (No. 29 of 2017), which was enacted on 17 November 2017, reflects the recommendations of the report of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Future Funding of Domestic Water Services, which was published in April 2017 and approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas. The Act provides for the discontinuance of domestic water charges

386 14 December 2017 for dwellings as set out in the Water Services Act 2014, and for the refund of domestic charges that were paid.

The total budget proposed by Irish Water to cover the cost of administering domestic refunds, including contingency and VAT, is approx €5.9m.

14/12/2017WRAAA01400Land Availability

14/12/2017WRAAA01500724. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government his plans to dispose of the land at a location which is under the ownership of the State for the use of housing by a group (details supplied) for a nominal fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53525/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA01600Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): It is crucial that the State’s housing land bank is developed as soon as possible. To this end, details of some 1,700 hectares of land in local authority and Housing Agency ownership were published on the Rebuilding Ireland Housing Land Map, with these lands having the potential to deliver some 42,500 homes nationally. The map also includes details of some 300 hectares of land in ownership of other State or semi-State bodies, with the potential to deliver a further 7,500 homes. All of the mapped sites can be viewed at the following link: http://rebuildingireland.ie/news/rebuilding-ireland-land-map/.

In the context of his new role in driving and co-ordinating housing delivery, my colleague, Minister of State Damien English, will chair the State Land Management and Development Group, whose key role will be to drive delivery of housing from the local authority and broader State land bank. Preparatory work is underway at present with a view to convening a meeting of the Group early in the New Year.

In relation to the specific site mentioned, I understand that it is not in the ownership or under the control of Fingal County Council. However, the Council is actively engaged, with the Office of Public Works, in an effort to secure the site for housing development purposes. Until such time as the Council secures ownership and control of the site, the question of its transfer to a third party does not arise.

14/12/2017WRAAA01700Health and Safety Regulations

14/12/2017WRAAA01800725. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern- ment further to Question No. 520 of 14 November 2017, if he will consider amending section 239 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to include bike parks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53537/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA01900Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I refer to the reply to Question No. 520 of 14 November 2017, which set out the position in relation to Section 239 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. This Section places a statutory duty on organisers of funfairs and owners of fairground equipment to take such care as is reasonable for ensuring that persons at a funfair do not suffer injury or damage by reason of dangers arising from the funfair or associated activities.

For the purposes of Section 239 of the Act, “funfair” means an entertainment where fairground equipment is used, while ‘‘fairground equipment’’ includes any fairground ride or any similar equipment which is designed to be in motion for entertainment purposes with mem-

387 Questions - Written Answers bers of the public on or inside it, any equipment which is designed to be used by members of the public for entertainment purposes either as a slide or for bouncing upon, and any swings, dodgems and other equipment which is designed to be in motion wholly or partly under the control of, or to be put in motion by, a member of the public or any equipment which may be prescribed, in the interests of public safety. This legislation does not prescribe activity parks such as bike parks as falling within its definition.

My Department commenced an internal review process on the issue of safety at funfairs/ fairground equipment earlier this year. The review of the aspects of legislation relating to regulation of fairground equipment and funfairs in section 239 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, particularly in respect of the specific legislative provisions relating to fairground equipment, is on-going and includes an examination of international practice in the area of regulating public safety. The drafting of the review report has commenced and further engagement with relevant stakeholders is on-going as part of the process of clarifying issues and preparing the report’s conclusions and recommendations. It is not envisaged at this point that this legislation will be amended to include activity parks such as bike parks.

14/12/2017WRAAA02000Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRAAA02100726. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Gov- ernment the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53571/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA02200Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I refer to the reply to Question No. 157 of 2 February 2017 and the further deferred reply sent to the Deputy on 16 February 2017.

The information provided in February has now been updated and is set out in the following table.:

Act Sections/Chapters not in force or com- Reason not yet commenced menced Electoral Act 1997 Section 79 Section 79 of the Electoral Act 1997 provides for amendments to electoral law which would allow for greater flexibility in relation to when the counting of votes might commence and when refreshment breaks might be taken at Dáil and Presidential elections and at referendums. The current arrangements in relation to the counting of votes and refreshment breaks at these elections and at referendums are considered to be satisfactory. The need to commence section 79 of the Electoral Act 1997 will be kept under review. Electoral (Amendment)2004 Sections 5(1) – (3),(5) and (6); sections 6 These provisions relate to electronic voting and are obsolete. Act -16 and 30-32; Schedules 1-4. Environment (Miscellaneous Section 49 Implications for the Official Languages Act 2003 Provisions) Act 2011 Finance Act 1976 Sections 68-70, 72 and 75 Provisions relating to the continuous liability for motor tax. These provisions were superseded by an administrative process for declaring vehicles off the road retrospectively in the mid-1990’s and subsequently by the provisions contained in the Non-Use of Motor Vehicles Act 2013, which introduced prospective declarations of non-use of a vehicle. Housing Act 1966 Section 115 This provision is no longer required in view of section 177 of the Local Government Act 2001.It is intended to repeal this provision at the next available opportunity. Housing (Miscellaneous Section 11 This provision is no longer required as it related to the New Provisions) Act 2002 House Grant which was abolished with effect from 14 Nov 2002 with the deadline for of a written request for payment extended to 2 April 2004.

388 14 December 2017

Act Sections/Chapters not in force or com- Reason not yet commenced menced Housing (Miscellaneous Section 14-18Housing Services Plans- It is considered that the main p priority at this time is to Provisions) Act 2009 Sections 23- 27 (Rental Accommodation deliver on the Government’s Action Plan for Housing, Arrangements)Section 28Management Rebuilding Ireland. Dependent on the commencement of and control functions of housing authori- section 31 of the 2009 Act concerning rent schemes and tiesSection 29Section 30Delegation of charges.Existing statutory authority for LAs to enter into management and control functionsSec- RAS contract arrangements is provided in section 19 of the tion 31Section 32(9)Section 64(9)(a) 2009 Act.Commencement of this provision is dependent on Part 5: sections 78 to 96. New Affordable the commencement of section 31 (Rent schemes and charg- Dwelling Purchase ArrangementsSec- es)This section concerns a requirement for standardised tion 97 and 98Section 99Section 7 and written tenancy agreements which comply with Schedule Schedule 1 partially un-commenced 3 of the Act. Housing authorities already require written - RepealsSection 8 and Schedule 2 tenancy agreements in practice - 1980 Regulations provide partially un-commenced -Amendment of for minimum requirements for these agreements. Authorities other enactments have generally found these adequate for their requirements. Section 29 will standardise and modernise the approach taken in this area. Commencement of this provision is dependent on the commencement of section 31 (Rent schemes and charges)Commencement of section 31 is dependent on the making of Regulations in relation to rent schemes. Considerable work has been carried out by the Department in developing a draft framework for a harmonisation of the approach to be taken by local authorities in regard to various aspects of rent schemes. This work is now being examined further in the light of the broader commitment given in the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan for Housing and Homeless- ness, to review the disparate systems of differential rent for social housing in place across local authorities. The review will be completed by the end of Q2 2017. The determination of an appropriate timeline for commencement of the section will be made at that time. Related to section 31 – rentRe- lated to section 31 – rentIn 2011 the Government announced the standing down of the provision of Affordable Housing (the 1999 Affordable Housing Scheme, affordable housing under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000, and the Affordable Housing Initiative). Consideration is currently being given to commencing this Part of the 2009 Act in the context of new housing affordability measures. These provisions provide for a claw back in the case of the resale, before 20 years, of a site provided to a qualified purchaser by a housing authority at a purchase price less than the market value. In the years since this legislation, a number of reforms of the scheme have been considered and implemented. Further reforms are now being examined in the context of Programme for Government and Rebuilding Ireland commitments. In the context of those reforms, the commencement of the provision will be examined shortly. Relates to various un-commenced provisionsRelates to various un-commenced provisions.

389 Questions - Written Answers

Act Sections/Chapters not in force or com- Reason not yet commenced menced Housing (Miscellaneous Part 4 - Section 41(4): Designation of Consideration to commencing this provision is being given Provisions) Act 2014 areas where no further dwellings will be now that the scheme is available nationally.Dependent on approved for housing assistancePart 4 - the commencement of section 31 of the 2009 Act concern- Section 44:Payment to housing authority ing rent schemes and charges.Provision has been made for by HAP beneficiary of rent contribution such households through the RAS and SHCEP schemes. under s. 31 of 2009 Act (ss. (1)) and Appeals currently being dealt with under a local authority’s Prescription of manner of payment of Customer Charter.Inserts new section 29A into 2009 Act rent contribution (ss. (2))Part 4 - Section – amendment of tenancies. Depends on commencement of 47:Payment of HAP in respect of certain section 29 of Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) 2009.Di- beneficiaries under the Capital Assis- rect deduction of rent from Department of Social Protection tance SchemePart 4 - Section 48:Internal payments was provided for in order to ensure the efficient review, on request, of HAP decisions collection of differential rents for Social Housing Tenants in prescribed decision classesSection who are in receipt of a primary payment from the Depart- 20Section 53Section 54(1) ment of Social Protection. This was particularly relevant in the case of Housing Assistance Payment (HAP). However, amendments made to the Household Budget scheme have greatly assisted in the efficient collection of rents from such households, relieving the urgency of the requirement to introduce a direct deduction service. It is intended to introduce Direct Deduction service in due course.As above. Residential Tenancies Sections 16 (d) and (g);Sections 22-24; These provisions relate to the introduction of a Deposit (Amendment) Act 2015 Section 37;Section 57(1)(b); Sec- Protection Scheme. Commencement is delayed pending tion 59;Sections 60(a), (b)[(4)(c)], (c) the review of legislative provisions for Deposit Protection and (e)[(7)];Section 61; Section 62(b) under Action 28 of the Strategy for the Rental Sector.Sec- (iii);Sections 63(d)[(5),(6)]; Sections tions 17(d) and (e) provide for changes to registration fees 64-65;Sections 70-72Sections 17(d) and structure.Sections 34-35, 38, 43, 46, 48, 51(1)(b), 52(6), 53 (e);Sections 34-35;Section 38; Section and 73 provide for the insertion of a new Section 76A and 43;Section 46; Section 48; Section 51(1) consequential amendments regarding referral of complaints (b); Section 52 (6); Section 53; Sec- to the Board for resolution in respect of non-compliance tion 73;Sections 63(a), (b), (c) and (d) with Section 86(1)(a), i.e. the requirement to continue to [8];Section 57(1)(a),(c) and (d); 57(2)- pay rent pending the determination of a dispute. Sections (4); and section 58 63(a), (b), (c) and (d)[8] provide for notification to the RTB of an alteration in rent.Commencement of these provisions has been delayed to provide the RTB with sufficient time to update their systems and put new procedures in place to implement these measures.These sections relate to the enforcement of RTB determination orders in the District Court. The necessary additions to the District Court rules are currently being put in place and it is expected that this change will come into effect in the near future. Planning and Development Paragraph (e) of section 74Section 76 It is intended to commence this enactment as soon as prac- (Amendment) Act 2010 ticable.This enactment has been superseded by subsequent enactments and the intention is to repeal it as soon as practicable. Urban Regeneration and Section 34 It is intended to commence this enactment when Chapter Housing Act 2015 4 of Part 2 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, with which it is linked, is commenced Planning and Development Sections 26 and 27Section 28(1) Sec- These enactments will be commenced on conclusion (Housing) and Residential tions 44, 45 48 and 49 of Part 3 and Part of consultations relating to the introduction of the new Tenancies Act 2016 3 of the Schedule streamlined EIA screening procedures involved to determine whether an EIA is required for particular forms of development. This enactment will be commenced when amendments proposed to it in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2016 are enacted. Sections 44 and 45 provide for one-person Tribunals, rather than three-person Tribunals, in the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) for certain categories of cases. Section 48 provides for the issuing of determination orders by the Executive, rather than the Board, of the RTB. Commencement of these provisions has been delayed to provide the RTB with sufficient time to update their systems and put new procedures in place to implement these measures. Section 49 is a technical amendment relating to the enforcement of RTB determination orders in the District Court. The necessary additions to the District Court rules are currently being put in place and it is expected that this change will come into effect in the near future. Part 3 of the Schedule relates to section 48 and this will be commenced at the same time as section 48.

390 14 December 2017

Act Sections/Chapters not in force or com- Reason not yet commenced menced Licensing of Indoor Events Parts I and II of the Act Consultation with stakeholders in relation to drafting Act 2003 secondary regulations to be made under the legislation highlighted issues of practicality in attempting to license individual events, as distinct from licensing premises. A view was taken that the intended regulations were unworkable and duplicated existing licensing provisions for premises under other legislation. Parts I and II of the Act were never commenced and it is still not seen as practicable to make regulations of the type envisaged and there are no plans therefore to make a commencement order for this legislation. Local Government Act 2001 Section 22Section 189, 190, 192- Commencement of section conditional on the establishment 194(1),(2),(4),(5),(6)195 and 196Section of a commission to make recommendations on a number 212-214Section 223 of local government issues.Commencement requires the making of regulations which are being drafted.Implications for existing legislation across a number of legislative codes. Existing provisions need to be repealed before commencement of this section can proceed. Local Government (Miscel- Section 10(b),(d) and (e) and section 11 Other higher priority work arising. laneous Provisions) Act (b), (c), (d), (f), (h), (i) and (l) Gover- 2012, No. 17 of 2012 nance provisions in relation to the Fire Services Council, Affordable Homes Partnership and Irish Water Safety Local Government Reform Section 1 (23) Commencement of section 48 requires that section 189 of Act 2014 the Local Government Act 2001 be first commenced (see above re Local Government Act 2001). Water Services Act 2007 Sections 49, 63-67, 69, 77-90, 92, 104- All water services legislation is under active review and 106, Schedule 2 and part of sections legislative provisions are commenced, as and when required. 4,58, 70 and 107 Water Services Act 2013 Sections 28 and 29 All water services legislation is under active review and legislative provisions are commenced, as and when required. Water Services (No.2) Act Section 29 All water services legislation is under active review and 2013 legislative provisions are commenced, as and when required. Water Services Act 2014 Section 11 All water services legislation is under active review and legislative provisions are commenced, as and when required. Water Services Act 2017 Section 58 (a), (b), (c), (d), (f) and (g), The Water Services Act 2017 was enacted on 17 November Section 61;Section (5)(1)(b)(IV);Section 2017 with most sections of the Act also commenced on 23. 17 November. Subsections (a), (b), (c), (d), (f) and (g) of Section 58 relating to amendments to the Local Government Act 1998 will come into operation on 1 January 2018. The remaining sections related to the Water Forum, the customer dispute resolution and the amendment to the Valuation Act 2001 will be commenced as and when required.

14/12/2017WRAAA02300Water and Sewerage Schemes Funding

14/12/2017WRAAA02400727. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government if funding will be provided for a group water scheme (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53602/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA02500Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department’s Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 2016-2018 provides funding for new group water schemes, through Measure 3, where public water supply schemes or private wells are not an option.

Kerry County Council included the Scheme concerned in its bid under Measure 3 of the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme 2016-2018.

An Expert Panel was convened by my Department to examine the 2016 bids from local authorities for projects under a number of the programme’s measures, including Measure 3, and to make recommendations to my Department on funding. The Panel recommended a priority list of 11 schemes under Measure 3 to my Department, which accepted the recommendations in

391 Questions - Written Answers full when approving the rural water allocations for 2016. The priority list recommended by the Panel did not include the Scheme concerned. As the approvals under Measure 3 were for the duration of the programme, there is currently no scope for any additional schemes.

A copy of the Expert Panel’s report and consideration of all proposals under the Programme is available on my Department’s website at:

http://www.housing.gov.ie/water/water-services/rural-water-programme/group-water- schemes-and-rural-water-issues .

14/12/2017WRAAA02600Fire Service

14/12/2017WRAAA02700728. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern- ment the amount of funding given to fire services in each county in each of the years 2012 to 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53712/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA02800Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Gov- ernment (Deputy Damien English): The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of fire station premises, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the Fire Service Act, 1981. My Department supports the fire authorities through setting general policy, providing a central training programme, issuing guidance on operational and other related matters and providing capital funding for priority infrastructural projects.

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table:

Fire Services Funding by Local Authority 2012 -2017

All figures in euros (€)

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 to date CARLOW 345,252 214,379 367,668 118,896 265,210 178,441 COUNTY COUNCIL CAVAN 9,825 5,209 100,256 30,765 COUNTY COUNCIL CLARE 39,464 61,969 203,967 8,118 255,946 COUNTY COUNCIL CORK CITY 30,487 119,574 65,077 52,115 COUNCIL CORK 723,480 1,214,235 3,930 922,499 COUNTY COUNCIL DONEGAL 219,998 7,860 125,669 130,932 363,806 COUNTY COUNCIL DROGHEDA 21,284 BOROUGH COUNCIL DUBLIN 512,807 423,011 322,426 36,839 174,773 677,152 CITY COUN- CIL

392 14 December 2017

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 to date DUN 40,000 3,930 LAOGHAIRE/ RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL DUNDALK 18,500 16,893 TOWN COUNCIL GALWAY 918,221 300,642 78,230 70,686 502,297 319,975 COUNTY COUNCIL KERRY 76,255 19,650 13,091 75,857 11,500 COUNTY COUNCIL KILDARE 633,067 286,868 224,564 30,934 370,922 COUNTY COUNCIL KILKENNY 55,406 71,610 37,219 80,184 86,929 100,079 COUNTY COUNCIL LAOIS 5,380 31,784 82,890 4,194 28,721 85,944 COUNTY COUNCIL LEITRIM 71,156 80,201 1,353 COUNTY COUNCIL LIMERICK 284,979 20,536 CITY COUN- CIL LIMERICK 160,609 70,000 COUNTY COUNCIL LIMERICK 33,485 1,874,812 1,644,021 116,585 CITY & COUNTY COUNCIL LONGFORD 119,032 786,614 244,449 652,414 COUNTY COUNCIL LOUTH 16,781 128,673 110,608 47,853 406,393 COUNTY COUNCIL MAYO 87,201 196,353 195,781 378,828 134,751 COUNTY COUNCIL MEATH 171,282 63,677 71,216 20,295 104,093 COUNTY COUNCIL MONAGHAN 240,626 217,918 60,694 153,043 406,252 135,086 COUNTY COUNCIL NORTH 4,360 43,396 TIPPERARY COUNTY COUNCIL OFFALY 43,072 46,978 32,488 100,326 201,397 516,560 COUNTY COUNCIL

393 Questions - Written Answers

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 to date ROSCOM- 156,925 62,592 30,705 67,000 976,767 763,904 MON COUNTY COUNCIL SLIGO 84,961 44,072 17,670 117,544 10,824 125,104 COUNTY COUNCIL SOUTH DUB- 9,825 LIN COUNTY COUNCIL SOUTH 33,165 76,457 TIPPERARY COUNTY COUNCIL TIPPERARY 133,270 121,064 1,412,396 761,754 COUNTY COUNCIL WATER- 3,398,192 1,330,253 112,851 FORD CITY & COUNTY COUNCIL WATERFORD 654,750 CITY COUN- CIL WATERFORD 92,714 1,196,183 COUNTY COUNCIL WESTMEATH 23,063 50,487 131,918 394,423 13,530 COUNTY COUNCIL WEXFORD 91,376 13,530 87,937 47,420 COUNTY COUNCIL WICKLOW 560,142 130,728 68,190 COUNTY COUNCIL

14/12/2017WRAAA02900Housing Estates

14/12/2017WRAAA03000729. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern- ment if specific funding will be allocated to a local authority to carry out necessary improvement works in a housing estate (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53622/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA03100Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The taking-in-charge of housing estates is a matter for the relevant local authority under section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).

My Department launched the National Taking-in-Charge Initiative (NTICI) in April 2016 to support and accelerate overall national and local action on the taking-in-charge process of housing estates, including estates with developer-provided water services infrastructure (DPI). The initiative was set up on a time-bound basis in order to both better understand and stimulate the taking-in-charge process, due to the backlog of estates waiting to be taken in charge. Under the terms of the NTICI, which was underpinned by €10m in funding, developments subject to valid taking-in-charge applications were eligible for inclusion in the call for funding proposals under Circular FPS3/2016 (available at the following link: http://www.housing.gov.ie/planning/ guidelines/taking-charge-housing-estates/circular-fps3-2016-national-taking-charge ). 394 14 December 2017 My Department established a Steering Group to oversee the initiative including funding allocations. The Steering Group selected the following seven local authorities for demonstration projects - Cork, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Tipperary and Wexford - as these represented about 70% of problematic housing estates nationwide served by Developer Provided Infrastruc- ture (DPI).

A total of €7.7 million of the allocated funding was paid to local authorities in respect of 330 developments, containing some 13,400 units.

While the NTICI was not intended as a rolling funding programme for taking estates in charge but provided instead a focused examination of the issues involved, building on the lessons learned through this programme, I expect that the Initiative will contribute to further streamlining of the taking-in-charge process, through for example synergies with capital works by Irish Water. In addition, the outcome of the Mid-Term Review of the Capital Plan provides for an additional €25m funding to be provided for addressing legacy issues in relation to lead pipe remediation and developer provided infrastructure, details of which will be announced in due course.

A report on the 2016 NTICI is currently being finalised by my Department which will help to inform future taking-in-charge plans. It is envisaged that the report will be published in Q1 2018.

As Monaghan was not one of the local authorities selected to pilot new approaches to speed up the taking-in-charge process under the NTICI, funding was not available under the NTICI in this case. Nevertheless, publication of the NTICI report in Q1 2018 will be of value to local authorities and other stakeholders in applying the lessons from the pilot authorities in a more general roll-out of a streamlined approach to taking in charge.

14/12/2017WRAAA03200Mortgage to Rent Scheme Data

14/12/2017WRAAA03300730. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Gov- ernment the number of mortgage-to-rent transactions that have been fully completed to date by lender, local authority and approved housing body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53768/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA03400731. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of mortgage-to-rent applications each month in 2017 up to when the scheme was revised; the number of applications each month since the scheme was revised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53769/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA03500732. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of approved housing bodies here; the number that have undertaken a mortgage-to-rent scheme; the number of mortgage-to-rent transactions undertaken by each approved housing body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53770/17]

14/12/2017WRAAA03600Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 730 to 732, inclusive, together.

Since the introduction of the Mortgage to Rent (MTR) Scheme in 2012, a total of 3,765 cases have been submitted under the scheme to the end of September 2017. Of the 3,765 cases submitted, 2,909 were ineligible or terminated during the process. Of the remaining cases submitted, 282 have been completed, and the remaining 574 are actively being progressed.

395 Questions - Written Answers The Housing Agency publishes, on a quarterly basis, detailed statistical information on the operation of the MTR scheme, including the number of completed transactions by lender, local authority area and Approved Housing Body (AHB). There are currently 7 AHBs participating in the MTR scheme. This information is available on the Agency’s website at the following link:

https://www.housingagency.ie/our-services/housing-supply-services/mortgage-to-rent. aspx.

Following a Review of the Mortgage to Rent (MTR) Scheme, published on 8 February 2017, a range of amendments to the eligibility criteria and administration of the MTR scheme came into effect to enable more properties to qualify and to make the scheme more flexible and accessible to borrowers. The Review, available at the following link: http://rebuildingireland. ie/news/changes-in-mortgage-to-rent-scheme/ , explored the impediments to participation in the scheme and recommended a number of actions to make the scheme work better for borrowers.

The table below gives a breakdown of MTR applications received each month during the period 1 January to 30 November 2017. The changes to the MTR eligibility criteria and other process changes came into effect on 27 March 2017 and therefore applications received from April onwards should be regarded as applications submitted under the revised MTR scheme. One of the changes to the MTR process is that the borrower must be approved by their local authority for social housing support prior to the submission of a completed MTR application to the Housing Agency. This process change may have impacted the number of MTR applications received by the Housing Agency in the initial months subsequent to the implementation of the process changes arising from the review recommendations.

2017 Number of MTR applications received January 47 February 14 March 36 April 4 May 3 June 15 July 31 August 15 September 25 October 29 November 32 Total 251 My Department and the Housing Agency are working with all stakeholders to ensure that the actions set out in the Review are being effectively implemented to benefit a greater number of households. I am providing an additional €5m for the MTR scheme in 2018, which will support at least 250 additional MTR cases to be completed by AHBs working together with lenders using the existing MTR scheme.

The MTR Review also concluded that the current financial model of the MTR scheme may not, in its current configuration, be capable of delivering the scale of successful cases that could benefit from the scheme over time. In order to test the operability of alternative funding models for the scheme, the Housing Agency has been working with a number of financial entities who have expressed an interest in working with the MTR scheme to progress a number of alternative long-term lease arrangements. In advance of these pilots and to establish the operability

396 14 December 2017 of an alternative financing approach, a targeted market testing exercise has been undertaken by the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA), to test the suitability of the proposed enhanced leasing arrangements to ascertain if they would be viable for a MTR cohort, taking account of the necessity to provide a long-term stable solution for eligible households.

The responses to the market testing exercise have been reviewed by the Housing Agency and my Department. A call for Expressions of Interest from bodies interested in pursuing pilot operating models was initiated by the Housing Agency on 26 October 2017. Once the Expres- sions of Interest process is concluded - the extended deadline for receipt of submissions is 31 January 2018 - the Housing Agency will make recommendations to my Department as to the make-up of the pilots, which can then be initiated.

14/12/2017WRBBB00150Homeless Accommodation Provision

14/12/2017WRBBB00200733. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the legislation, statutory instruments or departmental guidelines that permitted the use of rooms in hotels, guest houses and hostels for emergency accommodation for families and children in the period since 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53899/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB00300Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Under the Housing Act 1988, housing authorities are empowered to provide assistance to persons that they regard as homeless; Section 2 of the Act sets out the requirements for a person to be regarded as homeless by a housing authority for the purposes of the Act, while Section 10 sets out additional provisions, including that any person regarded as homeless may be placed into temporary emergency accommodation, which the housing authority may arrange itself or which may be operated by a State-funded service provider. Under these provisions housing authorities’ powers to deal with homelessness are broad and flexible allowing them to respond quickly and effectively to the various needs of cases that may present to them. I am satisfied that housing authorities are making every effort to provide the most suitable accommodation to homeless households seeking emergency accommodation.

As part of the response to the commitment contained in Rebuilding Ireland that commercial hotels and B&B’s should only be used as emergency accommodation for families in limited circumstances, housing authorities are delivering a number of family-focused, supported temporary accommodation facilities, also referred to as ‘family hubs’. The long-term solution to the current homeless issue is to increase the supply of homes and accordingly Rebuilding Ireland is designed to accelerate all types of housing supply. It is intended that the long-term housing needs of households in emergency accommodation will be met as soon as possible through a range of social housing supports, such as the enhanced Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme and general social housing allocations.

14/12/2017WRBBB00350Homeless Persons Data

14/12/2017WRBBB00400734. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of families and children housed in emergency accommodation in rooms at hotels, guest houses and hostels in each of the years 2009 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53900/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB00500Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The Pathway Accommodation and Support System (PASS) was implemented nationally in 2014, as a national information and management system for homeless services that are overseen 397 Questions - Written Answers by housing authorities. My Department collates PASS data from lead housing authorities on a monthly basis and these monthly homeless reports are published on my Department’s website and can be accessed using the following link: http://www.housing.gov.ie/housing/homelessness/other/homelessness-data.

These monthly reports include a breakdown based on accommodation type. Commercial hotels and B&Bs are included within the private emergency accommodation category. In relation to the information requested by the Deputy, such information is not available for the period prior to the introduction of the PASS system in 2014.

14/12/2017WRBBB00550Homeless Accommodation Funding

14/12/2017WRBBB00600735. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the cost of the use of hotels and guest houses for emergency accommodation in each of the years 2009 to 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53901/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB00700Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department’s role in relation to homelessness involves the provision of a national framework of policy, legislation and funding to underpin the role of housing authorities in addressing homelessness at local level. Statutory responsibility in relation to the provision of accommodation and related services for homeless persons rests with individual housing authorities. Therefore, my Department does not fund any service directly, but provides funding to housing authorities towards the operational costs of homeless services.

The purposes for which housing authorities may incur expenditure in addressing homelessness are prescribed in Section 10 of the Housing Act 1988. Under Section 10 funding arrangements, housing authorities must provide at least 10% of the cost of such services from their own resources. Furthermore, housing authorities may also incur additional expenditure on homeless related services outside of the Section 10 funding arrangements. Therefore, the exact amounts spent by housing authorities for specific homeless related purposes, including accommodation in commercial hotels and B&Bs, are a matter for those authorities.

Details of the total Section 10 Exchequer funding provided to housing authorities by my Department for the years 2009 to 2016 and to date in 2017 are set out in the following table:

Exchequer Funding provided under Section 10 of the Housing Act 1988 Year € 2009 56,056,856 2010 54,703,457 2011 48,123,050 2012 46,545,963 2013 45,000,000 2014 49,205,774 2015 64,770,970 2016 88,676,500 To date - 2017 90,161,891

14/12/2017WRBBB00750Planning Investigations

14/12/2017WRBBB00800736. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern-

398 14 December 2017 ment the status of the senior counsel investigation into certain planning matters in County Donegal; the timeframe involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54140/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB00900Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): On 12 June 2017, my Department received a report from Senior Counsel regarding his Review Into Certain Planning Matters In Respect Of County Donegal.

My Department is currently reviewing and assessing the contents of Senior Counsel’s report and I have requested the advice of the Attorney General in respect of a number of points.

When I have received the Attorney’s advice, my Department will finalise a submission for me and I will be in a position to consider the report in full and to take any appropriate further action.

14/12/2017WRBBB00950Social and Affordable Housing Data

14/12/2017WRBBB01000737. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern- ment the number of NAMA units offered to local authorities; the number accepted; and the number transferred in each of the years 2011 to 2017, by county, in tabular form. [54149/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB01100Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) plays an important role in the delivery of social housing. To the end of September 2017, a total of 2,428 residential properties, which are part of the security for loans that NAMA has acquired, had been secured for use by local authorities or approved housing bodies. These comprise 2,216 completed properties and a further 212 that had been contracted and where completion work is on-going. A further 80 properties were considered as being active transactions whereby terms are agreed or active negotiation is on-going, and 285 other properties were to be further appraised for their suitability. These and other statistics are available on the website of the Housing Agency at http://www.housing. ie/NAMA.

The following table gives the breakdown of units offered and secured for social housing by NAMA and is broken down by local authority. The figures are available on a cumulative basis and a breakdown per annum is not available. However, previous status reports , which are published on a quarterly basis, are available on the website of the Housing Agency at https://www. housingagency.ie/our-services/housing-supply-services/nama/previous-status-reports.aspx.

Table: Total number of dwellings offered and secured for use by local authorities or approved housing bodies, by local authority, to end September 2017

Local Authority Identified by NAMA Demand Confirmed Secured Carlow Co. Co. 193 115 103 Cavan Co. Co. 49 1 0 Clare Co. Co. 230 80 55 Cork City 470 157 138 Cork Co. Co. 817 333 321 Donegal Co. Co 124 31 5 Dublin City 853 437 396 Dún Laoghaire-Rath- 480 288 254 down Co. Co. Fingal Co. Co. 312 150 143 Galway City 203 202 196

399 Questions - Written Answers

Local Authority Identified by NAMA Demand Confirmed Secured Galway Co. Co. 145 42 32 Kerry Co. Co. 221 69 42 Kildare Co. Co. 352 175 172 Kilkenny Co. Co. 189 69 56 Laois Co. Co. 133 36 35 Leitrim Co. Co. 35 0 0 Limerick City and 163 38 16 County Council Longford Co. Co 38 2 0 Louth County Council 32 27 27 Mayo Co. Co. 75 31 0 Meath Co. Co. 236 53 39 Monaghan Co. Co. 45 38 38 Offaly Co. Co. 83 32 30 Roscommon Co. Co. 104 0 0 Sligo Co. Co 122 29 4 South Dublin Co. Co. 594 148 146 Tipperary Co. Co 161 0 0 Waterford Co. Co 109 51 51 Westmeath Co. Co. 108 22 20 Wexford Co. Co. 225 123 102 Wicklow Co. Co. 45 14 7 Grand Total 6,946 2,793 2,428

14/12/2017WRBBB01150Private Rented Accommodation Provision

14/12/2017WRBBB01200738. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern- ment if his attention has been drawn to a study by a group (details supplied) which found over 90% of properties available for rent were beyond the affordability of persons on HAP; the steps he is taking to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54185/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB01300Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Rebuilding Ireland sets out the Government’s ambition to increase the supply of housing, in terms of social housing, the private rental market and private housing for purchase. In the context of social housing, this will involve a blended approach to delivery and providing local authorities with a range of mechanisms to achieve the best value for money within the financial resources available. I have made it clear that there must be an increased focus on building new social housing homes, and it is in that context that I increased the targets for new social housing over the period to 2021 to 50,000 and have provided the necessary financial resources to achieve that.

The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Scheme plays a vital role in housing eligible families and individuals. There are currently more than 30,000 households having their housing needs met via HAP. On average, 350 new households are supported by HAP each week in 2017, and the Rebuilding Ireland 2017 target of supporting 15,000 additional households with the scheme has been exceeded. The increased HAP rent limits introduced by the Government last year, together with the additional discretion available to local authorities to exceed the maximum rent limit where necessary, are allowing HAP households to find suitable accommodation and willing landlords. Particular additional targeted supports are available to homeless households in the Dublin and Cork City regions to assist them in finding accommodation in the 400 14 December 2017 private rental market, with the support of HAP.

From available data, at the end of Q3 2017, approximately 20% of the total number of households being supported by HAP were benefiting from the additional flexibility that was provided to local authorities to exceed the maximum rent limits. When the additional discretion available to homeless households in the Dublin Region is removed, 14.4% of households nationally were benefiting from the additional flexibility. In those cases, the average rate of discretionary payment being used was 14.9% above rent limits provided.

The Strategy for the Rental Sector, published in December 2016, recommended the introduction of a Rent Predictability Measure to moderate rent increases in those parts of the country where rents are highest and rising - where households have greatest difficulties in finding accommodation they can afford. The Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 provided for the Rent Predictability Measure and for areas, called Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs), where rents can now only rise by a maximum of 4% annually for a period of three years.

This measure was implemented immediately in the four Dublin local authority areas and in Cork City as these areas already met the criteria for a Rent Pressure Zone in December 2016. A further 12 Local Electoral Areas (LEAs) were designated in January 2017, with the measure further extended to Maynooth and Cobh LEAs in March 2017 and to Drogheda and Greystones LEAs in September 2017.

My Department and I are constantly monitoring HAP data, as well as other key information relating to the private rental market. Indications are that the current HAP rent limits and the flexibility to exceed those rent limits provide local authorities with sufficient capacity to assist households in securing rented accommodation that meets their needs. Increasing the HAP rent limits in particular local authority areas could have further inflationary effects on the private rented sector, which could have a detrimental impact on the wider rental market, including for those households who are not receiving HAP support. Based on the data outlined above, I am currently satisfied that the maximum rent limits, together with the additional flexibility available to local authorities, are generally sufficient to meet the demand of the rental market in these areas.

I continue to keep the operation of the HAP scheme under review but I am currently satisfied with how the scheme is operating and I consider it to be a key vehicle for meeting housing need and fulfilling the ambitious programme committed to under Rebuilding Ireland.

14/12/2017WRBBB01350Social and Affordable Housing Provision

14/12/2017WRBBB01400739. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Gov- ernment if further consideration has been given to the introduction of an affordable housing scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54186/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB01500Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I refer to the reply to Question No 34 of 7 December 2017 which sets out the position in relation to this matter.

14/12/2017WRBBB01550Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRBBB01600740. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern-

401 Questions - Written Answers ment the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54231/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB01700Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department’s Press Office generally provide photographic services when required. However, on such occasions where this is not possible, a service provider is selected from the OGP panel in line with the procurement framework. No photography costs have been incurred from the Ministerial allowance available to me.

The details requested by the Deputy are as follows.

Year Amount 2011 €302.00 Meeting of the National Lensmen Photography Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management 2011 €600.00 Tidy Towns National The Picture Rooms Awards ceremony 2011 €932.00 Ireland’s Best Kept Town Maxwell Photography Awards 2011 €3,969.00 Fire Services Long Service Lensmen Photography Awards 2012 €170.00 Launch of CEDRA Maxwell Photography 2012 €172.00 Minister O’Sullivan’s Paul Connor Photography visit to NAMA properties leased to LA, Scotch Hall, Drogheda 2012 €363.00 Putting People First launch Maxwell Photography 2012 €485.00 Launch of framework for Maxwell Photography Sustainable Development 2012 €3,257.00 Fire Services Long Service Maxwell Photography Awards 2013 €103.00 EU Presidency: Informal Maxwell Photography Council of EU Environment Ministers - Clean Tech Cluster Forum and Expo, Wood Quay 2013 €172.00 Fire Services Long Service Maxwell Photography Awards 2013 €308.00 EU Presidency: Senior Of- Maxwell Photography ficials Meeting of Water and Marine Directors, Dublin Castle 2013 €362.00 Minister O’Sullivan’s visit Maxwell Photography to Fingal Co Co housing insulation retro- fit project in Corduff, Blanchardstown 2013 €448.00 Ireland’s Best Kept Town Maxwell Photography Awards 2014 €551.00 Launch of Social Housing Maxwell Photography Strategy 2014 €2,161.00 Fire Services Long Service Maxwell Photography Awards 2015 €23.50 Fire Services Long Service Maxwell Photography Awards

402 14 December 2017

Year Amount 2015 €80.00 Photograph of Minister Information not available Alan Kelly and Pope Fran- cis at the EU Environment Ministers’ meeting on Cli- mate Change in the Vatican 2015 €107.83 Social Housing Construc- Kenny Photo Graphics tion Programme 2015 €184.50 Photographs of Wexford- Gerard Hore Photography based senior managers for the Whodoeswhat.gov.ie website 2015 €239.85 Ireland’s Best Kept Town Lensmen Photography Awards 2015 €246.00 Launch of Diversity Award Redmonds of Roscrea 2015 2015 €326.91 Photographs of Dublin- Lafayette Graduation based senior managers for Services the Whodoeswhat.gov.ie website 2015 €369.00 Rural policy launch in MacMonagle Photography Caherciveen 2016 €90.00 Photographs of Ballina- Corrine Beatty Photography based senior managers for the Whodoeswhat.gov.ie website 2016 €308.42 Material for public display Maxwell Photography in the reopened Custom House Visitor Centre 2016 €413.28 Announcement of €25m Maxwell Photography for the first phase of the Dolphin House Regenera- tion Project 2016 €430.50 Launch of the 2016-2020 Maxwell Photography Fire Services Capital Pro- gramme 2016 €602.70 Announcement of ERDF Maxwell Photography grant assistance to local authority capital works under the Designated Urban Centres Grants Scheme 2014 – 2020 2017 €413.95 Launch of the public Frank Fennell Photography consultation of the NPF – Ltd. Ireland 2040 2017 €430.50 Campaign to prevent dog Barry Cronin attacks on sheep. 2017 €519.40 Leader announcement in Fergal Shanahan Photog- March 2015 raphy 2017 €551.04 HAP event with Dublin City Maxwell Photography Ltd. Council 2017 €551.04 NPF Ireland 2040 Green Maxwell Photography Ltd. Schools National Poster Competition 2017 €602.70 Social housing funding an- Maxwell Photography Ltd. nouncement with the EIB 2017 €706.02 Social housing event Maxwell Photography Ltd. 2017 €4,086.64 Fire Services - Long Service Maxwell Photography Ltd. Awards

14/12/2017WRBBB01750Public Relations Contracts Expenditure 403 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRBBB01800741. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Gov- ernment the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54247/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB01900Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department has not engaged any external public relations firms since March 2011.

The engagement of external expertise is generally only considered where the issues involved require expert skills or capabilities that are not readily available within my Department.

14/12/2017WRBBB01950Consultancy Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRBBB02000742. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Govern- ment the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54263/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB02100Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The information requested is set out in the following table:

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2011 ARUP Consulting Study in respect Not intended for €29,935 Engineers of provision of publication. It is a fire detection and technical report, to alarms systems in inform work in the dwellings. Department. 2011 Barrow Archaeo- Archaeologi- Not intended for €1,210 logical Services cal reports on publication as it is Met Éireann site at a technical report Valentia. relating to a site on Valentia Island where Met Éireann are building an Air Monitoring Facility. 2011 Building Research Retrofitting Code Published March (1)€21,190 Establishment Ltd of Practice. 2014. 2011 Dr. Eoin Review of the Published Novem- €6,000 O’Sullivan, Trinity Homeless Strategy ber 2012. College Dublin 2008-2013. 2011 Housing & Sus- Toolkit for Local Not intended €12,300 tainable Communi- Authorities on for publication. ties Ltd. regeneration. This was a report intended to provide assistance to Lo- cal Authorities in drawing up proposals for the regeneration of their areas.

404 14 December 2017

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2011 Malachy Walsh & EIS Screening Not intended for €6,336 Partners Report for site at publication as it is Valentia. a technical report relating to a site on Valentia Island where Met Éireann are building an Air Monitoring Facility. 2011 Marine Institute Marine Strat- (1) Initial As- (2)€2,857,481 egy Framework sessment - the Directive (1) Initial technical report Assessment; (2) was published on Development the Department’s of a Monitoring website in Q2 2013 Programme; and and the summary (3) Development of report was pub- a Programme of lished in Q4 2013. Measures necessary (2) Monitoring to achieve Good Programme – sent Environmental Sta- to the EU Commis- tus in Irish Marine sion in April 2015. Waters. (3) Drawing up of programme of Mea- sures - completed and published July 2016. 2011 Murtagh & Part- Review of Dublin Published October €27,800 ners Region Homeless- 2011. ness Services and Funding in 2011. 2011 National Stan- Audit reports for Not intended for €6,699 dards Authority of ISO9001:2008 in publication. These Ireland (NSAI) 2011 and 2012. reports are for internal use only as an input for ongoing development of a Divisional Qual- ity Management System. 2011 Price Waterhouse Independent as- Irish Water - Phase €179,584 Coopers sessment on 1 report and ap- establishment of pendices published National Water January 2012. Utility. Implementation Strategy published December 2012. 2011 Pyrite Panel Report of the Published July €22,719 Pyrite Panel - In- 2012. dependent report to provide options for the Minister to deal with the pyrite problem. 2012 AECOM Cost optimal study Published March €53,517 for non-domestic 2013. buildings.

405 Questions - Written Answers

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2012 DKM Economic Review of Part V Published July €39,690 Consultants of the Planning and 2013. Development Act 2000. 2012 Economic and Analysis of Prop- Published Decem- €60,280 Social Research erty Tax Options ber 2012. Institute (ESRI) - a report to the Interdepartmental Expert Group on Property Tax. 2012 Flynn Furney Environmental Not intended for €3,167 Consultants Ltd. Management Ser- publication as it is vices re: review of a technical report CEMP at Valentia relating to a site Site (Method State- on Valentia Island ment). where Met Éireann are building an Air Monitoring Facility. 2012 Glas Ecology Environment Not intended for €4,920 Management Plan publication as it is (Breeding Chough a technical report and Peregrine Sur- relating to a site vey, Valentia Island, on Valentia Island Co. Kerry). where Met Éireann are building an Air Monitoring Facility. 2012 Housing and Sus- Review of leasing Not Intended for €1,937 tainable Communi- model. publication. Report ties Agency for internal use only. 2012 Indecon Feasibility study Published Novem- (3)€42,706 on a Tenancy ber 2012. Deposit Protection Scheme. 2012 Mr. Hendrik W Independent Published January €12,096 van der Kamp Evaluation of the 2013. Planning Review Report 2012. 2012 Mr. Seamus Review of the Published March €19,680 Woulfe SC management by 2012. the Department of an application by Wicklow County Council for loan approval in respect of the compulsory purchase of land at Charlesland, Co. Wicklow - Phase 1. 2012 Mr. Seamus Review of the Published April €49,200 Woulfe SC compulsory ac- 2013. quisition of land by Wicklow County Council at Charlesland, Co. Wicklow - Phase 2.

406 14 December 2017

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2012 Munster Archaeol- Report on ar- Not intended for €47,289 ogy chaeological inves- publication as it is tigation/survey of a technical report Met Éireann site at relating to a site Valentia. on Valentia Island where Met Éireann are building an Air Monitoring Facility. 2012 Padraic Thornton Preparation of EIA Published March €7,200 Planning & Envi- Guidelines. 2013. ronmental Con- sultancy 2012 Version 1 Evaluation of ICT Internal Manage- €9,363 Disaster Recovery ment Report. Not configuration and intended for publi- capability. cation. 2013 Economic and Affordabil- Published in May €57,655 Social Research ity aspects of the 2014 as Appendix 2 Institute (ESRI) provision of water and Appendix 5 of services in Ireland the “Report of the and subsequent Inter-Departmental analysis. Working Group on Affordability Measures”. 2013 Environmental Article 29(2) Re- Published April Nil Protection Agency port on Progress on 2014. (EPA) Implementation of the EC (Good Ag- riculture Practices for the Protection of Waters) Regula- tions 2010. 2013 Garrett Fennell Independent Re- Published on Nil (report Solicitor view of the registra- the Department’s produced on a pro- tion arrangements website. bono basis) for Architects under the Building Con- trol Act 2007. 2013 Housing and Sus- Review of CALF Not Intended for €11,675 tainable Communi- assessment process. publication. Report ties Agency for internal use only. 2013 Housing and Sus- Business Pro- Not Intended for €54,938 tainable Communi- cess Design of the publication. Report ties Agency Housing Assistance for internal use Payment. only. 2013 Indecon Assessment of This report is Nil (report pro- Potential Merits of available on request duced on a pro- New Initiative re from the Depart- bono basis) Purchase of Local ment. Authority Houses by Existing Ten- ants.

407 Questions - Written Answers

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2013 KW Research & NTACC Research Published on the €11,938 Associates into why Travellers Department’s web- leave Traveller- site April 2014. specific accommodation. 2013 RPS Group Public consulta- Published Novem- €9,000 tion process on the ber 2013. Marine Strategy Framework Direc- tive and producing a report. 2013 Userneeds Usage survey on Internal Manage- Nil - provided as the Met Éireann ment Report. Not a free sample website. intended for publication. 2014 Glas Ecology Environment Not intended for €1,599 Management follow publication as it is up Report (Breed- a technical report ing Chough and relating to a site Peregrine Survey, on Valentia Island Valentia Island, where Met Éireann Co. Kerry). are building an Air Monitoring Facility. 2014 MacCabe, Durney Independent Plan- Published Decem- €94,521 Barnes ning Review. ber 2015. 2014 Padraic Thornton Independent Published May €5,000 Planning & Envi- Review of Draft 2014. ronmental Con- S31 Directions in sultancy Westmeath. 2014 Patricia Thornton Independent Published August €4,151 Tom Philips As- Review of Draft 2014. sociates S31 Directions in Limerick. 2015 AECOM Additional cost Published Febru- €33,683 optimal calcula- ary 2015 tions for domestic and non-domestic buildings. 2015 Behaviour & At- Market Survey to Not intended €19,865 titudes Ltd. determine weather for publication. forecast consump- Report for internal tion behaviour of purposes, primarily the Irish public. to inform strategic business decisions. 2015 Deloitte Business Case Not intended €28,939 Review for the for publication. Housing Assistance Undertaken as part Payment (HAP). of technical work to update financial modelling related to the preparation of the original business case.

408 14 December 2017

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2015 Dr. Dagmar Best practice Not intended for €14,391 Stengel in relation to the publication. Infor- sustainable exploi- mative research tation and manage- sought to address a ment of intertidal gap in knowledge seaweed resources. at the time. 2015 Independent Re- An Bord Pleanala Published March €41,142 view Group - Organisational 2016. Review. 2015 IT Executive Review of the Internal Manage- €55,289 Focus Structure and De- ment Report. Not livery Model of the intended for publi- ICT Services for cation. the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. 2015 MartinPlan Con- To consider the Not expected to be €1,750 sulting implications of the published. Report C-50 judgment in forms part of an the context of waste ongoing delibera- water discharge tive process. licensing and to make any necessary recommendations. 2015 Mazars Consulting Independent Re- Published on the €27,075 view of Homeless Department’s web- Services (2015). site January 2016. 2015 Rory Mulcahy, Review Report in Issue of publica- €55,350 Senior Counsel relation to Certain tion to be consid- Planning Matters in ered following respect of Donegal completion of County Council. report. 2015 School of Psy- Review of CISM Not intended for Nil chology, Trinity (Critical Incident publication. It is a College Dublin Stress Manage- technical report, to ment) in fire inform work in the service. Department. 2015 Steering Group on Review of Fire Published August (4)€35,597 Fire Safety Review Safety arrange- 2017. ments in multi-unit developments where concerns arise regarding non-compliance with statutory requirements. 2016 Bruce McCor- Independent Published in Au- €1,970 mack Review of Draft gust 2016 S31 Direction in Westmeath. 2016 Des Johnson Independent Re- Published Febru- €3,000 view of Draft S31 ary 2016 Direction in Louth.

409 Questions - Written Answers

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2016 Des Johnson Independent Published in June €3,000 Review of Draft 2016. S31 Direction in Kildare. 2016 Economic & Research Pro- Expected to be €150,000 Social Research gramme on Eco- published in Q1 Institute nomic and Demo- 2018. graphic Modelling. 2016 Expert Panel on Report on the Published June (5)€10,194 Concrete Blocks problems that have 2017. emerged in the concrete blockwork of certain dwellings in Donegal and Mayo. 2016 Housing and Sus- Review by the Not Intended for Nil tainable Communi- Housing Agency of publication. Report ties Agency the scheme of loans for internal use & grants for pur- only. chase of caravans by Travellers. 2016 Housing and Independent Re- Published on the Nil Sustainable Com- view of funding for Department’s web- munities Agency/ Traveller-specific site in Q3 2017. PACEC Accommodation since 2000 in the context of the delivery and implementation of Local Authority Traveller Accommodation Programmes. 2016 Invas Biosecurity Production of Pro- Not published sep- €9,225 gram of measures arately, forms part on Invasive Alien of the draft River Plant Species for Basin Management the Water Frame- Plan published in work Directive. February 2017. 2016 Mr. Hendrik W Independent Published in Au- €2,688 van der Kamp Review of Draft gust 2016. S31 Direction in Donegal. 2016 RPS Group Strategic Environ- Expected to be €97,902 mental Assessment, published in Q1 Appropriate Assess- 2018. ment and Strategic Flood Risk As- sessment reports for National Planning Framework documents.

410 14 December 2017

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2016 RPS Group Strategic Environ- Will be published €171,503 mental Assessment with the River and Appropriate Basin Management Assessment of the Plans in early 2018. draft River Basin Management Plans. 2017 A&L Goodbody Report on Water Not intended €23,985 Solicitors Ltd. Abstractions. for publication as report forms part of an ongoing delib- erative process. 2017 AECOM Development of January 2018 Nil Modelling and Cost Data Services for Part L- Dwellings. 2017 ASM Chartered Review of the Internal Manage- €18,400 Accountants Department ICT ment Report. Not Backup systems intended for publication. 2017 CAAS Ltd Strategic Environ- Expected to be Nil mental Assessment published in Q3 (SEA) and Appro- 2018. priate Assessment (AA) and Flood Risk Appraisal on the draft revisions to the Wind En- ergy Development Guidelines 2006. 2017 Capita Business Process Not Intended for €116,850 Mapping and rec- publication. Report ommendations for for internal use Business Process only. Improvements. 2017 Economic and Joint Research The consultancy Nil Social Research Programme on is a 3 year research Institute Housing Econom- collaboration agree- ics between the ment which will Department and involve the publi- the Economic and cation of multiple Social Research research papers. Institute. The first paper emanating from the research agreement was published in November 2017. 2017 Ipsos MRBI Behavioural re- Expected to be (6)Nil search on the tenure published in Q2 choices of renters. 2018. 2017 KOSI Ltd Efficacy and Risk Internal Manage- €26,000 Review of the De- ment Report. Not partment’s Cyber intended for publi- and IT Security cation. Systems and Com- puter Rooms.

411 Questions - Written Answers

Year Commis- Consultant/Author Name/Description Date or Expected Amount Spent sioned etc. of Report/Review/ Date of Publication Since March 2011 Study 2017 Limerick Institute Carrying out of Expected to be Nil of Technology Research and the published in Q1 Development of a 2018. Report and Rec- ommendations on Guidance to Plan- ning Authorities Regarding Enter- prise Development in Rural areas. 2017 O’Brien Learning The Introduction Published October €2,622 of a Formal Men- 2017. toring Programme within an Organisa- tion 2017 Optimize Consul- Study to identify Expected to be €6,150 tants and assess relevant published before instruments and the end of 2017. incentives to reduce the use of single- use and other items, which impact the marine environment as marine litter. 2017 RPS Group Strategic Environ- To be published in Nil mental Assessment December 2017. and Appropriate Assessment for Nitrates Action Programme. 2017 Userneeds Usage survey on Internal Manage- Nil the Met Éireann ment Report in website. preparation. Not intended for publication.

(1) The contract was in conjunction with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. Total cost of the study is €169,302 (inclusive of VAT). My Department’s contribution was €21,190 (inclusive of VAT) with the balance met by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (i.e. €148,112 inclusive of VAT).

(2) The Initial Assessment report, monitoring programme and programme of measures each arise from a broader process connected with Ireland’s obligation to implement the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). The work primarily consists of a determination of the status of Ireland’s marine waters, the measures necessary to achieve, or maintain, the required Good Environmental Status by 2020 and a programme to monitor this. The preparation of a draft Initial Assessment (under Art. 8 of the MSFD) including proposals for Good Environ- mental Status (Art. 9) and for draft Environmental Targets (Art.10) is underpinned by a suite of monitoring measures to measure the maritime environment against these targets (Art. 11). Where human activities are preventing these targets from being met, a Programme of Measures to mitigate the effect of these activities, or halt them as appropriate (Art.13) has been finalised.

(3) This report was co-funded by my Department and the Private Residential Tenancies

412 14 December 2017 Board. The cost to my Department of €42,706 represents 50% of the total cost.

(4) The contracting authority for this report was Kildare County Council and the costs were recouped by my Department.

(5) The four members of the panel provided their services on a pro-bono basis. The costs associated with the preparation of the report related to travel and subsistence (at Civil Service rates).

(6) This report is being co-funded by my Department and the Department of Public Expen- diture and Reform.

14/12/2017WRBBB02150Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRBBB02200743. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54279/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB02300744. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54295/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB02400Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 743 and 744 together.

The information requested is being compiled to the extent to which it can reasonably be collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy in accordance with Standing Orders. The details requested in relation to bodies under the aegis of my Department are a matter for the individual bodies concerned. Arrangements have been put in place by each Agency to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. The contact email address for each agency is set out in the following table:

Agency Email address An Bord Pleanála [email protected] Ervia, Gas Networks Ireland [email protected] Housing Sustainable Communities Agency [email protected] Housing Finance Agency [email protected] Irish Water [email protected] Local Government Management Agency [email protected] Residential Tenancies Board [email protected]

14/12/2017WRBBB02450Housing Assistance Payment Applications

14/12/2017WRBBB02500745. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Gov- ernment the length of time it has taken for HAP applications to be processed and approved from

413 Questions - Written Answers date of application to date of processing and payment by number, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54301/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB02600Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): HAP is deemed to be a social housing support under the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2014. As a long term housing support, an assessment of housing need must be completed in order for a household to qualify for HAP. Any household with an identified housing need is eligible for HAP. The Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011 provide that subject to conditions, a housing authority shall deal with such an application within a period of 12 weeks.

Local authorities will prioritise housing needs assessments for those in greatest need and average waiting times are significantly shorter that the statutory maximum in many areas.

Under the HAP scheme, eligible households source their own accommodation in the private rented sector. My Department does not hold details on the processing times for HAP applications or payments. The earliest date a HAP payment will issue to a landlord is the date a complete and valid HAP application has been received by the local authority. Limerick City and County Council provide a highly effective transactional shared service on behalf of all HAP local authorities. This HAP Shared Services Centre (SSC) manages all HAP related rental transactions for the tenant, local authority and landlord. Once a HAP application has been received and confirmed as valid by the relevant local authority, it is then processed by the HAP SSC. On average, HAP applications are processed by the HAP Shared Service Centre within 1 working day of receipt. Any rental payment arising for a given month will then be made to a landlord on the last Wednesday of that month.

More than 30,700 households are currently in receipt of HAP support. My Department continues to keep the operation of the HAP scheme under review. In general, I am satisfied with the operation of the HAP scheme and I consider it to be a key vehicle for meeting housing need and fulfilling the ambitious programme under the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness.

14/12/2017WRBBB02650Turf Cutting

14/12/2017WRBBB02700746. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will ensure the protection of turf cutting for domestic use; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53596/17]

14/12/2017WRBBB02800Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The Na- tional Peatlands Strategy 2015 states clearly that the Government has no intention of ending the traditional practice of cutting turf for a person’s own domestic use but is committed to ensuring that the law of the land is upheld in relation to nature protection. This is reaffirmed in the Pro- gramme for a Partnership Government (2016) which provides that the Government recognises that domestic turf cutters have a traditional right to cut turf. This right is balanced with the conservation objectives and legal obligations on the State.

The cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme, administered by my Department, was established in 2011 in relation to turf cutting on raised bog designated sites. A pilot scheme targeted at encouraging energy efficiency and low carbon heating solutions among those coming within the ambit of this scheme is being developed by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment, working with my Department and Bord na Móna.

Applicants under the cessation of turf cutting compensation scheme from six special area of conservation bogs, will receive an offer of a tailored package of energy efficiency improve- 414 14 December 2017 ments with significant State supports. Irish Rural Link have been engaged to liaise with householders in the areas in question and public workshops on the pilot scheme will commence in January 2018.

Irish Museum of Modern Art

14/12/2017WRCCC00200747. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht when a new director of the Irish Museum of Modern Art will be appointed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53514/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC00300748. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht when the position of director of the Irish Museum of Modern Art will be advertised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53515/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC00400749. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason for the delay in advertising the position of director of the Irish Museum of Modern Art in view of the fact that the previous director (details supplied) was announced as the director of an institution in June 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53516/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC00500Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 747 to 749, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy may be aware, the appointment of a new Director is a matter, in the first instance, for the Board of IMMA, subject to my approval after consultation with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. The Board is currently in discussions with my Department regarding the terms and conditions relating to this post. Once this matter has been finalised it is intended to advertise the post.

In the interim, an acting Director has been appointed by the Board who will remain in place until the appointment of the new Director.

Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRCCC00600750. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within her area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53564/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC00700Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The information sought by the Deputy in respect of those Acts for which I have lead responsibility is set out in the following table.

Title of Act Section(s)/Part(s) yet to be commenced and other relevant information Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 Section 36 provides for licensing of certain hunting activities on the part of commercial shoot operators. The commencement of this section of the Act is kept under on-going review.

415 Questions - Written Answers Title of Act Section(s)/Part(s) yet to be commenced and other relevant information National Cultural Institutions (National Under section 39(1) of the Act, an order Concert Hall) Act 2015. will be required to fix the day on which the name change for the Irish Film Board will take effect. This is being considered in consultation with the current board. National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 Section 4(1) insofar as it relates to sections 16 or 65 of the Act, or section 25 of National Monuments Act 1930. Elements of Section 49 and Part V have not yet been commenced and are being examined by the Department. National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 Sections 65 and 66 relate to the deposit- ing of published material in the National Library of Ireland and related copyright matters. These issues were subsequently incorporated into section 198 of the Copyright and Related Rights Act 2000.

Capital Expenditure Programme

14/12/2017WRCCC00800751. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the amount of the capital carry over from 2016 of €13 million that has not been spent to date; the subheads under which the underspend has occurred; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53700/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC00900Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): Public Financial Procedures provide that a maximum of up to 10% of the capital envelope of a Vote may be carried over by way of ‘deferred surrender’ to the following year for spending in that year on priority capital programmes. Provision is made in the Revised Estimates Volume for the capital carryover amount by subhead and in a Ministerial Order to be made by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform before 31 March in the year of carryover.

The total amount carried over by my Department from 2016 into 2017 is €13,548,000. Since the making of the relevant Order by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on the 6th of March 2017, expenditure totalling €9.038 million has been incurred against the total carryover as follows:

- Subhead Amount carried over Expenditure to date €000 €000 A.7 Cultural Infrastruc- 6,548 4,634 ture and Develop- ment A.15 Decade of Centena- 5,000 2,404 ries 1912-1922 B.5 Natural Heritage 2,000 2,000 (National Parks and Wildlife Service) Total 13,548 9,038

416 14 December 2017 Expenditure under these subheads will continue to be closely monitored to year end.

Capital Expenditure Programme

14/12/2017WRCCC01000752. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her Department has sought permission from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to carry over unspent capital to 2018; if so, the amount sought as a carryover; the reason this was necessary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53701/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC01100Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): Details of the financial allocations for my Department for 2018, including any potential carryover of unspent 2017 appropriations to capital supply services, will be made available once Revised Estimates 2018 are published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

It is anticipated that all current funding will be expended in full and no significant capital savings beyond those which can be carried forward by deferred surrender into 2018 are envisaged.

Capital Expenditure Programme

14/12/2017WRCCC01200753. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the amount of capital allocated to her Department in 2017; the amount spent to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53702/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC01300Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): Funding allocations made available to my Department are published each year in the Revised Estimates Volume with the outturn published in the Annual Appropriation Account. Further Revised Es- timates for my Department can be viewed at the link below:

http://opac.oireachtas.ie/AWData/Library3/PERdoclaid151117_110705.pdf

Details of provisional expenditure in respect of my Department and all Government Depart- ments are published at Vote level by the Department of Finance on a monthly basis. Provisional current and capital expenditure figures in respect of my Department at Vote level as of 30 No- vember 2017 are available at:

http://www.finance.gov.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Fiscal-Monitor-November-2017. pdf.

Údarás na Gaeltachta Funding

14/12/2017WRCCC01400754. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the capital and current budget allocations for Údarás na Gaeltachta in 2017 and 2018, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53725/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC01500Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The information sought by the Deputy is outlined in tabular format below:

417 Questions - Written Answers Year Capital - €m Current (Ad- Current (Pro- Total - €m min) - €m grammes) - €m 2017 8.957* 8.958 3.250 21.165 2018 7.000 9.237 3.350 19.587

* An additional capital allocation of €2.270m, arising from savings elsewhere in the De- partment’s Vote, has been secured for an tÚdarás in 2017 and is included in the figure above.

Údarás na Gaeltachta Funding

14/12/2017WRCCC01600755. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the timeframe for delivery of funds under budget 2018 to Údarás na Gaeltachta on linguistic, cultural and community development in the Gaeltacht. [53726/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC01700Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The transfer of funds in 2018 from the Department to Údarás na Gaeltachta - in order to enable the discharge the organisation’s work programme - encompassing the domains specified in the Deputy’s question, will be undertaken in accordance with the normal funding and financial arrangements which apply in such cases and as agreed between my Department and Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Brexit Issues

14/12/2017WRCCC01800756. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the level of engagement between her Department and the agencies under its remit with their counterparts in Northern Ireland in the ongoing Brexit negotiations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53911/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC01900Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade has responsibility for coordinating the whole-of-Government response to Brexit. In this capacity, he is working closely with his colleagues across Government to address the many challenges arising from the decision taken by the United Kingdom. This cooperation also involves the relevant State Agencies.

Work at Cabinet level is being prepared through cross-Departmental coordination structures. These represent a frequent and active channel through which all relevant Departments are providing their research, analysis and overall policy input to the Government’s wider response to Brexit.

In relation to the work undertaken by my Department with regard to Brexit, I would refer the Deputy to the replies given to Parliamentary Questions No 923 of 20 June, No 257 of 12 July, No 741 of 11 September and No 586 of 7 November.

The main forum for advancing North South cooperation is the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC), which was established under Strand Two of the Good Friday Agreement. In the Council, the Government works with the Northern Ireland Executive to advance areas of practical co-operation which are to our mutual benefit, and the Council oversees co-operation in the agreed twelve Areas or Sectors. The power-sharing Executive and the Assembly are responsible for representing the interests of all of the people of Northern Ireland, including in relation to how the issues arising with the UK exit from the EU should be addressed. It is 418 14 December 2017 imperative that the devolved institutions can urgently operate again so that the North South Ministerial Council can resume its work and bring together the Government and the Executive to oversee and develop North/South cooperation, including that commenced last year to coordinate engagement by the Government and the Executive on dealing with the challenges raised on an all-island basis by the UK exit.

In six of these Sectors provided for under the Good Friday Agreement, co-operation is taken forward by means of the North South Implementation Bodies: Waterways Ireland, Food Safety Promotion Board, InterTradeIreland, Special EU Programmes Body, North/South Language Body, and the Loughs Agency, all of which operate on an all-island basis.

My Department co-sponsors two of the six North-South Implementation Bodies established under the Good Friday Agreement, Waterways Ireland and An Foras Teanga / the Language Body.

Prior to the suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly, my predecessor Minister Heather Humphreys had discussed with the Northern Ireland Minister for Infrastructure, Mr Chris Haz- ard, MLA, whose Department co-sponsors Waterways Ireland, and with the Northern Ireland Minister for Communities, Mr. Paul Givan, MLA, whose Department co-sponsors the Lan- guage Body their readiness to further explore the scope for co-operation to achieve the best outcome for the two Implementation Bodies in light of the potential challenges they face. My predecessor, along with her Northern counterparts, attended the last NSMC Plenary meeting in November 2016 at which Common Principles were agreed to coordinate engagement by the Government and the Executive to deal with the challenges that are raised on an all-island basis by the UK exit from the European Union. I very much hope that these contacts can continue as soon as the NSMC is once again able to meet.

My Department continues to participate in inter-Departmental preparations for Brexit and has established an internal Working Group to address all Brexit related issues affecting the De- partment and the State Bodies it funds, including the two North South bodies referred to above.

The arrangements which I have outlined are kept under constant review and will be enhanced as required in light of the ongoing preparations for Brexit.

Creative Ireland Programme

14/12/2017WRCCC02000757. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the level of funding provided in her Department’s Estimates for 2018 for Creative Ireland; the level of funding that will be allocated to local authorities and agencies under the remit of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53912/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC02100Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): A budget of €6m has been provided to further the implementation of the Creative Ireland Programme in 2018. This will ensure that the Department can build on the work accomplished in 2017, continue to drive the implementation of the Programme at local level and fund specific actions and priorities which further the wider aims of the Programme.

More specifically, over €1m of the above budget will be allocated to the implementation of Creative Youth: A plan to enable the creative potential of every child and young person in the country, launched on the 7 December 2017. This is a wide-ranging and ambitious plan that puts culture and creativity at the heart of education. The Department of Education is providing matching funds for this Plan in 2018.

419 Questions - Written Answers In addition to this commitment to implementing Creative Youth, the allocation from my Department to each local authority will be doubled to €2m for 2018 to enable them commence the implementation of their long-term Culture and Creative Strategies due to be launched early next year.

How the remainder of the 2018 budget will be distributed will be finalised in the coming weeks. In this context, it should be noted that the Creative Ireland Programme is the implementation vehicle for a wider, all of Government policy on culture in Ireland, and also links to the heritage, Gaeltacht and Irish language sectors, all of which received increased funding in 2018.

Departmental Funding

14/12/2017WRCCC02200758. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the funding provided by her Department for 2017; the estimated expenditure under each major subhead by year end; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53913/17]

14/12/2017WRCCC02300Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): Funding allocations made available to my Department are published each year in the Revised Estimates Volume. Further Revised Estimates for my Department can be viewed at the link below:

http://opac.oireachtas.ie/AWData/Library3/PERdoclaid151117_110705.pdf.

It is anticipated that all current funding will be expended in full and no significant capital savings beyond those which can be carried forward by deferred surrender into 2018 are envisaged.

Public Relations Contracts Expenditure

14/12/2017WRDDD00200759. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will provide a breakdown of expenditure by her Department on external public relations in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54122/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD00300766. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the use of external public relations firms employed by her Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54240/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD00400Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 759 and 766 together.

The information requested by the Deputy in respect of the period from the establishment of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht on 2nd June 2011, is set out in the table.

Value for money is a critical consideration in assessing whether external firms should be engaged to provide public relations services or any other services.

420 14 December 2017 Year 2011 Zoetrope Provision of press and €84,000 publicity, online and social media services to Culture Ireland for the duration of the Imagine Ireland programme 2011 2012 Zoetrope Provision of PR and Media €7,000 services to Culture Ireland for the Venice Architec- ture Biennale 2012 2016 Q4PR Publicity campaign for €17,000 Irish Language employment opportunities in the European Institutions 2017 Nicholas Public Relations - Creative €2,988 Quaife Ireland Programme

Heritage Council

14/12/2017WRDDD00500760. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she will address a matter raised in correspondence (details supplied); the initiatives her Depart- ment can take to recognise the history and contribution of this industry in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54132/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD00600Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): Any active practitioners of this practice in County Kildare who are carrying on this tradition and wish for it to be recognised as part of our national cultural heritage may wish to consider submitting an Expression of Interest to my Department’s National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heri- tage. An open call is currently underway until 31 January 2018, and questions can be directed to [email protected]

If it is desired rather to have the contribution of this industry recognised in a historical and cultural context, interested parties may consult their local Heritage Officer, who would be best placed to advise them on local initiatives and supports which may be available.

The Heritage Council, which my Department funds, also provides grants for the protection and preservation of the national heritage. It is primarily a matter for the Heritage Council to decide how its funding should be allocated across the range of research, education and conservation programmes it supports annually, having regard to competing priorities for limited resources. Grant schemes are advertised by the Heritage Council on its website www.heritage- council.ie

Arts and Culture Capital Scheme Administration

14/12/2017WRDDD00700761. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht her plans to remove the cap in the percentage for the art scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54134/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD00800Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): A Gov-

421 Questions - Written Answers ernment Decision in 1997 approved the inclusion in budgets for all Exchequer-funded capital construction projects of up to 1% as funding for an art project, subject to an overall cap of €64,000.

Under the terms of the Scheme, funds to commission a per cent for art piece are factored into and funded from the overall budget of each capital project by the public body undertaking it. This is a matter for each project promoter or commissioning body and I, as Minister, have no statutory function in this regard.

My Department has responsibility for the promotion of the Per Cent for Art Scheme and set out guidelines in 2004 to assist project managers to operate the scheme and to provide a common national approach to its implementation. Guidelines on the Per Cent for Art Scheme are available on the Public Art website www.publicart.ie. and on the department’s website.

The current cap was set by Government in 1997 and given the period which has elapsed since the cap was last adjusted in 1997, my predecessor asked the Department to conduct a review of the scheme. This review is ongoing.

Departmental Functions

14/12/2017WRDDD00900762. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her Department has assessed or had contact with her EU colleagues in relation to the potential relocation of the European Union youth orchestra; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54135/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD01000Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has had no contact on the potential relocation of the Eu- ropean Union youth Orchestra. I understand that the Orchestra has already made an announcement that it is establishing a legal and operational seat in Ferrara and Rome, Italy.

Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WRDDD01100763. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the use her Department has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54192/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD01200764. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the use her Department has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to Febru- ary 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54208/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD01300Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 763 and 764 together.

The Ministerial Air Transport Service (MATS) provides the Government and the President with an independent, flexible and effective air transport service to assist in meeting national and international obligations. Details of use of the MATS by Ministers are published by the Department of Defence at www.defence.ie. I have made no use of the Service since coming into office.

The MATS has been used by my Department on five occasions since its establishment in June 2011, details of which are set out in the table below.

422 14 December 2017 Date Destination Event 27 November 2015 London British-Irish Council Minis- terial Summit (accompanying An Taoiseach) 3-4 August 2014 Glasgow & Belfast World War 1 Commemora- tion events 15 November 2013 Jersey British-Irish Council Sum- mit (accompanying An Taoiseach) 16-17 May 2013 Brussels EYCS Council Meeting during Irish Presidency of the European Council (shared with two other Ministers) 27-28 February 2013 Brussels EYCS Council Meeting during Irish Presidency of the European Council (shared with two other Ministers) 6 June 2017 Messines Attending commemorations to mark the Centenary of the Battle of Messines. (Shared with An Taoiseach and two other Minsiters

Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WRDDD01400765. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the photography costs for her Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54224/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD01500Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The information requested is set out in the table below and covers the period from 2 June 2011 which was the establishment date for the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

No costs were incurred from use of the Ministerial allowance.

The hiring of photographers for Ministerial or Departmental events is dependent on a number of factors, including the nature of the engagement, the expected level of media interest and the national/regional scope of the subject. Certain costs included relate to the photographic documentation of important heritage sites, a key function of my Department, rather than to specific occasions. At all times, value for money is a critical consideration in the context of the booking of photographers.

2011 Total: €1,055

Occasion Photographer Cost National Famine Commem- Philip Fitzpatrick €400 oration, Clones 2011

423 Questions - Written Answers Occasion Photographer Cost 2011 Open House Dublin, Alice Clancy €0.00 Lir Theatre, in conjunction with the Irish Architecture Foundation(Second of a package of two events for the price of one, the first of which took place in 2010) Launch of National Biodi- Mac Innes Photography €284 versity Plan, Botantic Gar- dens Dublin (2011) 2011 National Famine Con- Mac Innes €371 ference, Dublin 2012 Total: €3,606

Occasion Photographer Cost Edinburgh Festival Fringe Alastair Devine €362 event Launch of Introduction of Joe Travers €100 Architectural Heritage of County Galway Culture Night, Dublin Maxwell Photography €599 British-Irish Council Min- Tommy Curran €80 isterial Meeting (Minor- ity Languages Sector), Co Donegal Launch of Treaty Online Mac Innes Photograhy €342 Project, National Archives, Dublin Ballycroy National Park Eamonn O’Boyle €320 Whaling Exhibition Official Opening of Burren Nicholas Mac Innes €550 National Park Information Centre, Corofin Release of the white-tailed Valerie O’Sullivan €120 sea eagles, Killarney Na- tional Park Association of Performing Erin Baiano €348 Arts Presenters Conference 2012 event CITES meeting March 2012 Mac Innes Photography €284 Commemoration at Team- Domnick Walsh Photogra- €206 pallín Bán Famine Grave- phy yard 2012 National Famine Commem- Paul Connor Photography €295 oration, Drogheda 2012

2013 Total: €3,944 424 14 December 2017 Occasion Photographer Cost Launch of Ireland’s Memo- Lensmen €209 rial Records 1914-1918 at National Museum Launch of Culture Connects Maxwell Photography €397 initiative for Ireland’s EU Presidency Presentation of coin find to Maxwell Photography €466 National Museum Launch of Arts in Education Maxwell Photography €277 initiative Display of coin find in Maxwell Photography €413 National Museum at Collins Barracks Launch of Century Ireland Maxwell Photography €363 website Launch of Scéim Oiliúna Pixsheáin €148 Peile agus Iománaíoch- ta, An Cheathrú Rua Dublin launch of Venice Art- Lensman & Associates €308 ist Biennale April 2013 International Famine Com- Maxwell Photography €311 memoration 2013 Presentation of European Eamon Ward €332 Diploma of Protected Areas (Burren, Co. Clare) Europeana Conference on Maxwell Photography €357 Digitisation, Dublin Castle Photocall for successful art- Maxwell Photography €363 ists attending the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2013 2014 Total: €4,016

Occasion Photographer Cost Contract signing for works Press 22 €426 at Killarney House Built Heritage Jobs Lever- Naoise Culhane €535 age Scheme National Gallery – com- Naoise Culhane €461 mencement of refurbishment works Launch of 1916 Rising Oral Maxwell Photography €486 History Collection Opening of Grantstown Denis Byrne Photography €220 Wood and Nature Reserve, Co. Laois National Famine Commem- Farrell Photography €720 oration 2014

425 Questions - Written Answers Occasion Photographer Cost Photocall with winner of Maxwell Photography €486 Herald Archangel Award at Edinburgh Festival 2014 Launch of Ireland 2016 Maxwell Photography €482 commemorative programme at G.P.O. Photographs of Minister and Philip Fitzpatrick Photogra- €200 two Ministers of State for phy official Departmental use 2015 Total: €15,489

Occasion Photographer Cost European Heritage Heads Con Brogan €200 Forum 10th Anniversary Annual Meeting in Dublin Castle Launch of the High Island, Con Brogan €150 Monograph Visit to Cartoon Saloon in Dylan Vaughan Photography €271 Kilkenny Event to commemorate Lensmen €554 the funeral of O’Donovan Rossa, Glasnevin Cemetery Launch of Culture Ireland Lensmen €258 supported artists attending Edinburgh International Festivals Launch of Culture Ireland I Maxwell Photography €503 AM IRELAND 2016 programme John Redmond commemora- Maxwell Photography €138 tion Launch of Ireland 2016 Maxwell Photography €861 Commemorative Programme 10th Anniversary of Culture Maxwell Photo €103 Ireland Dublin launch of Venice Art- Maxwell Photography €637 ist Biennale 2015 Moore Street – meeting with Maxwell Photography €362 Lord Mayor and traders Photography for Who- Maxwell Photography €327 DoesWhat Website Annual Famine Commemo- Paul Faith €781 rationand related events Spanish Armada Find Sligo Picsell8 Ltd €450

426 14 December 2017 Occasion Photographer Cost Teach an Phiarsaigh Cultural Reg Gordon €960 and Exhibition centre, Ros- muc, Connemara / Global and Diaspora Programme (2 separate events) Photography for Who- Tain Bo Media Teo €148 DoesWhat Website Launch of the High Island Con Brogan €150 Monograph Local Authorities CEOs and Lensmen €689 Ireland 2016 Coordinators meeting Royal College of Surgeons Launch of the High Island Big O €300 Centenary Programme, Col- lins Barracks 2016 Children’s Consulta- Maxwell Photography €258 tions 2016 Community Participa- Big O €615 tion video And Photography, Thurles Local Authorities Ireland Big O €1,920 2016 County Plans 2016 events: - Announce- Big O €4,379 ment of Arts Council Bursa- ries, Áras an Úachtaráin, - Delivery of first Flags for Schools, - Launch of Youth Imagination Programme Strand, Schools Supplement launch, - Local Authority Co-ordinators, Monaghan, Photography for Ireland- Launch of An Teanga Beo Programme- Strand IMMA Additional funding support Big O €475 for 2016 by IPB 2016 Total: €9,819

Occasion Photographer Cost Launch of design phase for Conor McCabe €431 archives storage in Nation- al Archives Launch of website of com- Conor McCabe €431 pensationclaims for property losses during 1916 Rising Commemorating Women Conor McCabe €431 of 1916

427 Questions - Written Answers Occasion Photographer Cost 2016 Post Primary Schools Robbie Reynolds €553 Flag Ceremony Launch of Action Plan for Lorraine Teevan €310 Historic Houses EU Language Jobs An- Maxwell Photography €395 nouncements, RHA Gallery Centre of Excellence for Andrew Downes €250 EUIrish Language Careers meeting with Minister of State Moneen Cave Excavation Thorsten Kahlert €1,300 Ireland 2016 Peace Proms Big O €400 Wreath Laying at South Big O €212 Dublin Union, Easter Mon- day State Ceremonial for Women Maxwell Photography €775 of 1916 2016 - Last Flag for School Maxwell Photography €689 Delivery, Tallaght Hospital 2016 - images for Participat- Maxwell Photography €499 ing Children and Staff 2016 - Liberty Hall (addi- Maxwell Photography €138 tional images) Opening screening of 1916 Maxwell Photography €590 Documentary, National Con- cert Hall LEADER Programme Lorraine TeevanPhotography €564 Launch Roger Casement Event Maxwell Photography €590 Thomas Kettle Memorial Maxwell Photography €486 Service Ionad an Phiarsaigh Offical Táin Bó Media Teo €221 Opening St Enda’s Rathfarnham Conor McCabe €554 2017 Total: €11,476

Occasion Photographer Cost Recording of interim con- Con Brogan €4,200 servation works at Moore Street Culture Ireland - Launch of Maxwell Photography €516 Edinburgh Fringe Festival Dave Pollock book launch Fota Foto €123 Opening of Killarney Valerie O’Sullivan €950 House Opening of Shekina exhibi- Con Brogan €325 tion

428 14 December 2017 Occasion Photographer Cost Thomas Ashe commemora- Maxwell Photography €630 tion Biodiversity Week Burren Conns Cameras €484 National Park NBAP launch Maxwell Photography €621 Launch of ‘Centenary’ book Maxwell Photography €695 at GPO, Dublin Launch of Action Plan for GPhotos €150 Rural Development “The Moore Street Report – Maxwell Photography €121 Securing History” presented to the Minister by the Moore Street Consultative Group Launch of online genealogy Maxwell Photography €499 toolkit for schools Cruinniú na Cásca Maxwell Photography €689 Launch of County Creativity Enda Rowan €336 Culture Plans Children’s Workshop/ Laura Hutton €500 Draíocht Announcement that Jesse Maxwell Photography €465 Jones to represent Ireland at 57th International Art Exhi- bition in Venice Launch of the EU LIFE AXP Photography €200 Raised Bog Restoration Project 2016- 2020 Sean Cassidy “Buttons and Maxwell Photography €172 Bows” artwork

Question No. 766 answered with Question No. 759.

Departmental Contracts Data

14/12/2017WRDDD01600767. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the external consultant reports commissioned by her Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54256/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD01700Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): The information requested by the Deputy in respect of the period from the establishment of the De- partment of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht on 2nd June 2011, is set out in the table.

I would also point out that my Department also commissions engineering or environmental experts from time to time to provide technical reports on specific issues, as required. While the providers of these services are consultant engineers, environmental consultants or may describe themselves in other such terms, their work is not classified as consultancy services and is not

429 Questions - Written Answers funded from my Department’s Administrative Budget.

Commissioned Company Title of Report Cost € 2011 Avia Solutions Review of financial 6,300 submissions relating to the Public Ser- vice ObligationAir Service for the Aran IslandsNot published due to reasons of commercial sensitivity 2012 Bonnar Keenlyside Review of Dub- 10,959 lin Contemporary 2011Commissioned to inform future consideration of any similar projects – not intended for publication 2013 Dorgan Associates Cost Benefit Analy- 12,669 sis of National Archives Develop- ment PlanPublished on Department’s website 2013 Dorgan Associates Cost Benefit Analy- 12,731 sis of National Gal- lery Redevelopment ProjectPublished on Department’s website 2013/2014 Dorgan Associates Examination of 6,765 capital incentives to promote investment in film studio infrastructureCom- missioned to inform future consideration of projects in that sector – not intended for publication 2014 EY Review of PSO Air 41,795 Service for the Aran IslandsPublished in May 2014

430 14 December 2017 Commissioned Company Title of Report Cost € 2014 Fitzpatrick Assocs Updated Business 15,191 Case Restoring theUlster Canal from Lough Erne to ClonesPublished on Department’s website 2014 The VAT Practice Advisory service 2, 963 on UK VATCom- missioned to inform administrative decisions in relation to compliance with tax obligations – not intended for publication 2015 Public Affairs Ire- Review of Man- 17,617 land (PAI) agement Structure andIreland (PAI) Grading of Senior Management Posts within Údarás na Gaeltachta Published on Department’s website 2015 Acadamh na Coimriú ar an 5,994 hOllscolaíochta tSeirbhís Rapporteur Gaelige don Díospóireacht Oscailte ar Pholasaí faoin Straitéis Fiche Bliain don Ghaeilge, 2010 – 2030 Pub- lished on Depart- ment’s website

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WRDDD01800768. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the level of expenditure by her Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54272/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD01900Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): I am advised by my Department that no expenditure was incurred on advertising in 2017 relating to government information campaigns.

Departmental Expenditure 431 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WRDDD02000769. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54288/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD02100Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (Deputy Josepha Madigan): In light of the large volume of information requested by the Deputy, arrangements are being made for this information to be compiled and forwarded to the Deputy, in accordance with the timelines set out in Standing Orders.

Defence Forces Medical Services

14/12/2017WRDDD02200770. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if director medical branch instruction number 52 amendment number 1 of 24 August 2016 is still relied upon by the Defence Forces for vaccinations and other preparations for overseas deployments. [53529/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD02300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Military Authorities have advised me that Director Medical Branch (DMB) Instruction No. 52 ‘Vaccina- tions And Other Preparations For Overseas Deployments’ Amendment No. 1 dated 24 August 2016 is still current and used for reference for overseas deployments.

Commencement of Legislation

14/12/2017WRDDD02400771. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the Acts, or parts of Acts, awaiting commencement within his area of statutory responsibility; the reason for the delay in the commencement of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53565/17]

14/12/2017WRDDD02500Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): There are no Acts, or parts of Acts, coming under the responsibility of the Department of Defence awaiting commencement.

Defence Forces Personnel Data

14/12/2017WREEE00200772. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the most up to date figures for the strength of the Permanent Defence Force with regard to all three services and all ranks; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54050/17]

14/12/2017WREEE00300774. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of additional recruits the Permanent Defence Force has recruited in 2017 with regard to all three services; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54052/17]

14/12/2017WREEE00400Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 772 and 774 together.

As of the 31st October, 2017 (the latest date for which figures are available), the whole time

432 14 December 2017 equivalent strength of the Defence Forces was as follows:

Service Total Personnel Female Personnel Army 7,417 496 Naval Service 1,058 74 Air Corps 744 34 To return to, and maintain, the agreed strength levels, significant targeted recruitment has taken place in 2017.

A total of 702 personnel have been inducted to date in 2017 and it is planned to induct further recruits before the year end. The 702 personnel inducted encompass 567 General Service Recruits across the Army and Naval Service, along with 100 Cadets, 22 Air Corps Apprentices and 13 Direct Entry Officers (11 Naval Service and 2 Military Medicine). Females represent 9.8% of those inducted in 2017. The gender breakdown of 2017 recruits across the Defence Forces is currently being compiled by the military authorities, and I will revert to the Deputy with this information when it is available.

The number of Officers, as at 31st October 2017, is 1,056 out of an establishment of 1,233. The number of Cadets in training has substantially increased recently with 100 Cadets having been recruited in each of the years 2016 and 2017. Approximately 70 Army Cadets will be commissioned in January 2018

As I have previously outlined there are particular challenges with vacancies in certain specialist posts such as Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers and certain Technicians. These specialists can prove difficult to retain where, as in the current economic circumstances, there are ongoing private sector and commercial semi-state sector job opportunities.

To address these difficulties, a range of recruitment methods are being employed including direct entry competitions for specialist positions. I have directed the civil and military management to develop proposals for expanding such direct entry recruitment of specialists and a scheme to faciliate former PDF personnel with appropriate skill-sets to re-enter the Defence Forces. The Public Service Pay Commission will further examine the issue of retention of specialist personnel in accordance with the provisions of the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020

In tandem with these actions my Department is also engaged in planning on a longer term basis. Projects arising from the White Paper on Defence around topics such as medium term manpopwer planning and encouraging as wide a pool as possible for recruitment are already underway. Further projects, scheduled to begin in the New Year will address issues such as age profiles and a gap analysis of skill-sets within the PDF. The gap analysis will help to identify the frequency of such gaps and identify appropriate measures to address them.

I remain committed to maximising recruitment of capable personnel, developing serving personnel, and so achieving the best personnel and skills combination to ensure the Defence Forces retain the capacity to operate effectively across all roles.

Defence Forces Reserve Strength

14/12/2017WREEE00500773. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the most up to date figures for the strength of the Reserve Defence Force with regard to all three services and all ranks; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54051/17] 433 Questions - Written Answers

14/12/2017WREEE00600775. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of additional recruits the Reserve Defence Force has taken on in 2017 with regard to all services; the gender breakdown of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54053/17]

14/12/2017WREEE00700Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Numbers 773 and 775 together.

As of 31 October 2017 (the latest date for which figures are available), the effective strength of the Reserve Defence Force was as follows:

Service Total Effective Personnel Female Personnel Army Reserve 1,733 240 Naval Service Reserve 123 19 I am aware that there is a shortfall between these figures and those of the establishment, which provides for 4,069 personnel. The most recent recruitment campaign for the Army Re- serve and Naval Service began in July 2017 and attracted 1,221 applications. A total of 128 personnel have been inducted to the Reserve Defence Force in 2017. The recruitment process has also been streamlined so as to make it more efficient. The gender breakdown of the 2017 recruits is currently being compiled by the military authorities, and I will revert to the Deputy with this information when it is available.

Given the competing recruitment demands at present, where PDF recruitment is and should remain a priority, recruitment to the Reserve is continuing. However, it should be noted that the same personnel and resources are utilised for both Permanent and Reserve Defence Force recruitment and the planned recruitment of up to 800 Permanent Defence Force personnel this year obviously impacted on resource allocation.

I would like to assure the Deputy that I remain committed to the ongoing development of the RDF within the framework set out in the White Paper on Defence and having regard to resource availability.

Question No. 774 answered with Question No. 772.

Question No. 775 answered with Question No. 773.

Defence Forces Operations

14/12/2017WREEE00800776. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of suspect devices that the Defence Forces disposal unit has dealt with in 2017, by county, in tabular from. [54054/17]

14/12/2017WREEE00900Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána have primary responsibility for the internal security of the State. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power which, in practice, means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. The Defence Forces Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams respond when a request for assistance is made by An Garda Síochána in dealing with a suspect device. The number of EOD callouts, which include viable devices, hoaxes, false alarms, post-blast analysis and the removal of unstable chemicals in laboratories dealt with up to date in 2017, by county, are set out in the tabular statement below:

434 14 December 2017 County Number of EOD Callouts Carlow 2 Clare 2 Cork 4 Donegal 4 Dublin 39 Kerry 1 Kildare 9 Kilkenny 1 Laois 3 Limerick 11 Louth 3 Mayo 1 Meath 1 Monaghan 1 Offaly 1 Roscommon 1 Sligo 2 Tipperary 2 Westmeath 4 Wexford 1 Wicklow 1 TOTAL 94

Naval Service Operations

14/12/2017WREEE01000777. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of days spent at sea by members of the Naval Service Reserve in 2016 and 2017. [54055/17]

14/12/2017WREEE01100Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The number of days spent at sea by members of the Naval Service Reserve in 2016 and 2017 is as follows:

Year Sea Days 2016 150 days 2017 167 days (to date)

Ministerial Travel

14/12/2017WREEE01200778. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the use his Depart- ment has made of the Government jet since coming into office, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54193/17]

14/12/2017WREEE01300779. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the use his Depart- ment has made of the Government jet in each of the years March 2011 to February 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54209/17]

14/12/2017WREEE01400Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 778 and 779 together.

435 Questions - Written Answers Information in relation to Ministerial Air Transport is available publically via a link entitled Ministerial Air Transport Service (MATS) on the Department of Defence homepage at www. defence.ie . This information is updated on a monthly basis.

The use of any Air Corps aircraft for Ministerial transport is subject to the authorisation of An Taoiseach.

Departmental Expenditure

14/12/2017WREEE01500780. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the photography costs for his Department in each year since March 2011 inclusive of costs incurred from use of the ministerial allowance; the list of occasions for which photographers were booked; the photographers used; the costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used, in tabular form; if there is a policy regarding the booking of photographers within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54225/17]

14/12/2017WREEE01600Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The total costs for photography paid by the Department in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 to date is set out in the table below:-

Year Photographer Cost 2011 Maxwell Photography €393.25 2012 Fennell Photography €116.85 2013 Maxwell Photography €17.22 2014 Maxwell Photography €713.40 2017 Maxwell Photography €590.40 The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, following an EU-level advertised procurement process, has established a Framework Agreement comprising five firms for the provision of photography services. The Framework was established in February 2012 and is open for use by all Government Departments and Offices. My Department normally avails of this Frame- work Agreement for photography needs.

Public Relations Contracts Expenditure

14/12/2017WREEE01700781. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the use of external public relations firms employed by his Department in each year since March 2011; the list of uses of the external public relations firm; the internal Department policy with regard to employing external groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54241/17]

14/12/2017WREEE01800Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): My Department has not incurred any expenditure on external public relations firms since March 2011.

Departmental Contracts Data

14/12/2017WREEE01900782. Deputy Shane Cassells asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the external consultant reports commissioned by his Department since March 2011; the costs per report; the company involved; the title of the report; and the publication date, in tabular form. [54257/17]

14/12/2017WREEE02000Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The information 436 14 December 2017 requested by the Deputy in relation to external consultant reports commissioned by my Depart- ment since March 2011 is set out in the table below.

Report Cost Date of Commission Company Publication Date An independent €51,660 19 April 2011 Mr. Frank Callanan, 19 September 2011 review of United S.C. Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) fatalities in 1989 Research on vessels €4,605 Late 2015 Mr. John Kearon Not published linked to Roger Case- ment Third Report of the €22,500 September 2013 Dr. Eileen Doyle 3 September 2014 Independent Monitor- ing Group (IMG) Consultancy report €24,870.60 23 October 2014 Fujitsu Ltd 30 January 2015 to access the impact of an upgrade of Departments financial application software Review of the Civil €7,200 March 2015 Mr. Jim Blighe Not published Defence Branch Review of the safe €26,400 March 2016 MarMan & Associ- Not published operation of Civil ates, Marine Consul- Defence watercraft. tants. Review of com- €1,400 September 2016 Mr. Ciaran Mother- Not published munications in Civil way Defence Aviation Regulation, €35,000 January 2017 Bureau Veritas Not published Oversight and Safety Management in the Defence Organisation Independent Review €33,665.55 (total cost 6 January 2015 Mr. Roderick Murphy Publication early of the investigation including editing fees (report edited by Mr 2018. of the death of Pte of €1,500) Jim Blighe) Hugh Doherty and the disappearance of Pte Kevin Joyce (Caomhán Seoighe) on 27 April 1981 while serving with IRISHBATT in the United Nations Interim Force in the Lebanon (UNIFIL)

Departmental Advertising Expenditure

14/12/2017WREEE02100783. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the level of expenditure by his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on advertising of Government information campaigns published specifically in national and regional newspapers in addition to all online advertising for all such Government information campaigns; the name for each such information campaign to which this expenditure related; the cost of each, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54273/17]

14/12/2017WREEE02200784. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department from 1 January 2017 to date in 2017 on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; the company or person to which such payments were 437 Questions - Written Answers made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54289/17]

14/12/2017WREEE02300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 783 and 784 together.

The total expenditure to date in 2017 by the Department of Defence for photography, advertising and website development is set out in the tables below. There was no expenditure in relation to communications advice, public relations and media training and preparation in 2017.

In relation to expenditure in these areas for the Defence Forces; it was not possible to collate the information requested by the Deputy in the timeframe available. I shall provide the figures to the Deputy when I receive them from the military authorities.

Photography

Campaign/ Policy Company Total Presentation of Long Service Maxwell Photography €590.40 Medals and 1916 Commem- oration medals to volunteer members of Civil Defence 26/5/2017 Website development

Campaign/ Policy Company Total Replacement of the Depart- Annertech €34,507.66 ments websites ( www. defence.ie , www.emergen- cyplanning.ie and www. winterready.ie ) Advertising

Campaign/Policy Company Total 101 st Anniversary of the 1916 Mediavest Ltd. €3,894.74 Easter Rising Rifle Range Adverts Mediavest Ltd. €31,683.58 Rifle Range Adverts North Wicklow Times €1,199.25 National Heritage Guide Ad- The Heritage Council €630.00 vert Annual Perambulation of the KFM Radio €369.00 Curragh Roads Advert Be Winter Ready Campaign Mediavest Ltd. €25,912.52 Radio Advertisements Be Winter Ready Campaign Independent Newspapers Mar- €6,150.00 two page article in the Irish keting Ltd. Independent Be Winter Ready Twitter cam- Mediavest Ltd. €5,535.00 paign Management of Twitter cam- Mediavest Ltd. €2,583.00 paign

438 14 December 2017 Campaign/Policy Company Total Advertising the services of the Atlantic Digital Agency Ltd. €977.85 the Ombudsman for the De- fence Forces -‘Signal’ Maga- zine – Autumn 2016 Edition Advertising the services of the Atlantic Digital Agency Ltd. €977.85 the Ombudsman for the De- fence Forces -‘Signal’ Maga- zine – Spring 2017 Edition Advertising the services of the JM Publishing Ltd. €977.85 the Ombudsman for the De- fence Forces -‘An Cosantóir’ Magazine December 2017- January 2018 Edition Promoting Civil Defence Roscrea People €300 Promoting Civil Defence JP Devlin Media (Public Sector €2,084.85 awards Magazine): Promoting Civil Defence Education Magazine (Reference €984 Guide) Promoting Civil Defence Emergency Times Publication of €344 January 2017 The only departmental information campaign is the Be Winter Ready 2017 information campaign which was launched on 8 November for which total expenditure was €14,268.00 as outlined above.

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