Written Answers

11 July 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].

Questions Nos. 1 to 6, inclusive, answered orally.

Questions Nos. 7 to 27, inclusive, resubmitted.

Questions Nos. 28 to 36, inclusive, answered orally.

11/07/2017WRA00650Defence Forces Personnel Data

11/07/2017WRA0070037. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of legal advisers that are employed by the Defence Forces; the cost of training such legal advisers; if the said personnel are required to reimburse the State for the training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32481/17]

11/07/2017WRA00800Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The role of Le- gal Officers employed by the Defence Forces is to advise the Chief of Staff on legal matters pertaining to the Defence Forces. Separately, legal advice for the Minister is provided by the Office of the Attorney General. I am informed that there are currently a total of seven (7) Legal Officers employed in the Legal Service Branch of the Defence Forces. It is difficult to itemise training costs specifically attributable to training Legal Officers. This is due to many variables depending on the educational route chosen by the individual officer. By way of example, the cost attributable to a postgraduate who may have funded his/her own primary degree is different to the costs associated with an undergraduate Cadet who achieves his degree through the USAC (University Students Administrative Complement) Scheme. Part of training/educational costs can be covered also through a refund of fees scheme. The amount recoupable under this scheme varies from year to year according to the budgetary amounts allocated and the number of applicants. In addition, the Legal Services Branch has an annual budget for external courses as part of continuous professional development (CPD). This budget is set at €9,000 for 2017. Amounts recoupable also vary according to the number of applicants.

Further education with third level institutions is conditional on a requirement to sign a service undertaking which involves the serving of a period of time which reflects the investment in attaining training and skills. When members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) retire, resign their commissions or discharge from the Defence Forces, they are required to reimburse the Department of Defence for any period of their service undertaking that they have not served in lieu of their signed undertaking.

Officers who undertake professional training at the Honourable Society of Kings Inns or the Law Society do so under the various schemes open to all Defence Forces personnel in line with the Training and Education Policy and Strategy. The duration of the resultant undertaking is

127 Questions - Written Answers specific to each course taking into account a number of factors including overall cost.

11/07/2017WRA00850Naval Service Operations

11/07/2017WRA0090038. Deputy Fiona O’Loughlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans for continued support for migrants in the Mediterranean area by the Naval Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25500/17]

11/07/2017WRA01000Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): In April 2017, the Government approved the despatch of a Naval vessel to the Mediterranean to undertake humanitarian search and rescue tasks as part of a bilateral arrangement with the Italian authorities. Similar arrangements were put in place in 2015 and 2016. The role of the Irish Naval vessels is to provide a search and rescue capability and to undertake humanitarian search and rescue operations at sea in the Mediterranean. L.É. Eithne was deployed on 23 May 2017 and this year to date, has rescued 1,187 persons from unseaworthy crafts. Overall 16,808 migrants have been rescued since Irish Naval Service vessels were first deployed in the Mediterranean in May 2015.

The despatch of Irish Naval vessels is facilitated as part of a bilateral arrangement with the Italian Government on the deployment and operation of the vessels and on the disembarkation and reception of any persons rescued or vessels in distress, in accordance with the applicable international conventions on the rescue of persons in distress at sea.

L.É. Eithne is due to return home later this month and it is our intention, subject to agreement from the Italian authorities, to deploy a further vessel to the Mediterranean to replace L.É. Eithne.

Ireland is fully supportive of the EU approach to the migration crisis. In this connection, EUNAVFOR MED (Operation Sophia) is another element of a comprehensive approach to addressing the migration crisis in the South Central Mediterranean. Operation Sophia is the EU Naval Operation designed to disrupt the people smuggling operations in the Mediterranean and to enforce the arms embargo on Libya. Potential participation by Ireland in the mission is currently being considered. EUNAVFOR MED is an armed international peace support operation mandated by the United Nations. Any decision to participate in Operation Sophia would also require Government and Dáil approval.

11/07/2017WRA01050Defence Forces Medicinal Products

11/07/2017WRA0110039. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to implement the recommendations of the motion taken on 28 June 2017 and agreed by Dáil Éireann regarding the drug lariam. [32345/17]

11/07/2017WRA01200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): As I stated in my reply to the Private Members’ Motion which was before the Dáil on 28 June, fundamentally the use of anti-malarial drugs is a medical matter that should be decided by qualified medical professionals. In the Defence Forces these are decisions for highly qualified Medical Officers having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Defence Forces. I have already indicated that a Working Group is currently examining issues arising in relation to the use of Lariam. In its earlier work in 2013, the Group obtained advice from leading medical experts who concurred with the practices followed by the Defence Forces in prescribing Lariam. 128 11 July 2017 The Group is continuing to engage with national and international experts and its most recent meeting was held on 28 June 2017.

I understand that the Working Group is considering options to formalise the provision of ongoing external expert medical advice to the Defence Forces in relation to a range of medical matters, including malaria chemoprophylaxis.

I anticipate receiving its Report shortly and I will carefully consider the Group’s recommendations.

I would like to again remind the House that there is ongoing litigation in relation to this matter. The State Claims Agency manages claims on behalf of the Department of Defence and has confirmed that to date 55 claims have been made by members and former members of the Defence Forces who allege personal injury as a result of their consumption of mefloquine (Lariam). The first case was scheduled to be heard in the High Court on 4th July last and has now been adjourned to 3 November 2017. You will therefore appreciate that I am constrained in my discussions on the matter.

I wish to assure the House that the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a high priority for me and the Defence Forces.

11/07/2017WRA01250Defence Forces Recruitment

11/07/2017WRA0130040. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the position regarding recruitment to the Permanent Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32093/17]

11/07/2017WRA0140064. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the position regarding the general service and cadet recruitment campaigns he launched earlier in 2017; the number of applications received; when the process is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32512/17]

11/07/2017WRA01500Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 40 and 64 together.

The Government is committed to maintaining a strength level of 9,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force. This comprises 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service personnel, as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence.

The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with operational requirements. As there is significant turnover of personnel in the Permanent Defence Force targeted recruitment has been and is currently taking place so as to maintain the agreed strength levels. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the Defence Forces are planning to increase the level of recruitment in 2017 and a number of competitions are currently underway in this regard.

The 2017 Cadet Competition was launched on 22 March 2017. In total there were 3,466 applicants for all 7 competitions which are; Army Cadet, Army Engineer Cadet, Army Equitation Cadet, Air Corps Pilot Cadet, Naval Service Operations Cadet, Naval Service Marine Engineer Cadet and Naval Service Electrical Engineer Cadet. The competition has progressed through the Application stage and Online Unsupervised Psychometric Assessments, to the Assessment Centre stage which involves Group Assessment, Fitness Tests and a Realistic Job Preview. A total of 100 Cadet inductions are planned to take place in September 2017.

129 Questions - Written Answers General Service Recruitment Campaigns for both the Army and Naval Service were launched on 23 February 2017. The competitions have now progressed and recruitment has commenced. In total there were 5 , 210 applicants for these competitions an increase of 13.5% compared with 2016. The competition has now progressed through the Application and Online Psycho- metric Assessment stages to Fitness Testing and Competency Based Interviews and inductions are planned to take place in September/October 2017.

There are plans to launch another Air Corps Trainee Military Aircraft Technician Competi- tion shortly and induct up to 25 Apprentices in Quarter 3/Quarter 4 2017.

With the support of the Chief of Staff, it is intended to continue to recruit new personnel in order to ensure that the Defence Forces retain the capacity to operate effectively across all roles and to undertake the tasks laid down by Government, both at home and overseas.

Question No. 41 answered orally.

11/07/2017WRA01650Defence Forces Courts-Martial

11/07/2017WRA0170042. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of military trials that were held within the past two years; the number of these trials that were subject to judicial review and or appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32482/17]

11/07/2017WRA01800Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Defence Act 1954, as amended, provides that members of the Defence Forces are liable to military law. The military law system reflects that of the criminal law system of the State in that it has its own prosecutor, military judge, courts martial system and administrator. These appointees are independent in the performance of their functions and I have no role to play in relation to military trials. The Court of Appeal Act 2014 established the Court of Appeal and gave that Court jurisdiction to hear appeals from all classes of Courts Martial. An appeal can be against conviction or sentence or both.

The military authorities inform me that between 1st January 2015 and 31st December 2016 there were a total of 17 courts martial concluded from which there were two appeals. In addition four of the Courts Martial was subject to judicial review.

Defence Forces Representative Organisations

11/07/2017WRA0190043. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to recognise the representative bodies for Defence Forces personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32595/17]

11/07/2017WRA0200063. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to meet with PDFORRA; his views on the right of the Defence Forces to have a representative body to discuss issues such as low pay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32597/17]

11/07/2017WRA02100Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 63 together.

The Defence (Amendment) Act 1990 and Defence Force Regulations (DFR) provide for the establishment of representative associations for members of the Permanent Defence Force. The associations that have since been established are RACO (for commissioned officers) and PDFORRA (for enlisted personnel). 130 11 July 2017 A Scheme of Conciliation and Arbitration (C&A) for members of the Permanent Defence Force was established in 1993 and provides a formal mechanism for the Defence Forces representative associations. The purpose of the scheme is to provide a means for the determination of claims and proposals from the Associations relating to remuneration and conditions of service.

Having regard to commitments made under pay agreements, members of the Permanent De- fence Force can make representations in relation to their pay and conditions of service through their representative bodies, PDFORRA and RACO. Where agreement is not reached it is open to both official and representative sides to refer the matter to an adjudicator or an arbitration Board to settle the matter.

In addition, a framework exists which facilitates the Associations engaging with the official side in talks parallel to those taking place between ICTU and the official side at National level.

Both RACO and PDFORRA participated at the recent negotiations on an extension to the Lansdowne Road Agreement. The Permanent Defence Force Representative Associations attended the plenary sessions which were attended by public sector trade unions, representative associations and management. Sectoral meetings, chaired by officials from the WRC, were also held between management and the representative associations.

The proposals arising from these negotiations are contained within the Public Service Stabil- ity Agreement 2018-2020. The proposals have been presented to both PDFORRA and RACO. They will now be subject to ballot by members of the Associations. It is intended that future remuneration of Defence Forces personnel will continue to be dealt with within this process.

I have met with PDFORRA and RACO in the past and attended the PDFORRA Annual Delegate Conference last year. I am also due to meet with the Representative Associations later this week.

Officials from my Department continue to work with the Representative Associations in a positive and collaborative process within the C&A Scheme to resolve issues.

Defence Forces Remuneration

11/07/2017WRA0220044. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the current pay proposals for the public sector will deal with endemic low pay in the Defence Forces; if he will be seeking special arrangements for the Defence Forces to insure an end to low pay and reliance on FIS among those in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32596/17]

11/07/2017WRA0230050. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence when there will be full pay restoration for all members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26043/17]

11/07/2017WRA0240059. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to reduce the dependence of members the Defence Forces on FIS and other income supports to subsidise the low levels of wages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32594/17]

11/07/2017WRA02500Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 44, 50 and 59 together.

Rates of remuneration and conditions of employment in each part of the Irish public sec-

131 Questions - Written Answers tor have traditionally been set by reference to levels of pay available in related public sector employments.

The Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Acts of 2009-2015 and the Public Service Stability Agreement 2013-2018 (the Lansdowne Road Agreement) define current pay policy for Public Servants and members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF).

The measures contained in the Lansdowne Road Agreement which PDFORRA signed up to in March 2017, will be of benefit to their members.

The focus of the increases will be on the lower paid, that is anyone earning up to €31,000 gross per annum. In accordance with the agreement the increases that will be applied from 1 January 2016 are 2.5% on annualised salaries up to €24,000 and 1% on annualised salaries from €24,001 to €31,000.

An increase of €1,000 per annum is due from 1 April 2017 on annualised salaries up to €65,000.

The payments are being processed and personnel should begin to see the effect of the rise in their take home pay in the next few weeks.

The pay of general service recruits and privates who joined the Permanent Defence Force post 1 January 2013 will be increased further following an agreement reached between the official side and PDFORRA earlier this year.

This revised payscale will be backdated to 1 July 2016 and will see the gross pay for general service recruits and privates, who joined the PDF post 2013, rise by between 8% and 24% depending on their point on the payscale. Arrangements are being made to process these payments.

Going forward, there is also potential for further increases arising from the recent negotiations on the extension to the Lansdowne Road Agreement. The Public Service Stability Agree- ment 2018-2020 contains proposals for :

- a 7.25% increase over the period of the agreement for those earning less than €30,000 per annum

- A 6.75% increase over the period of the agreement for those earning under €32,000 per annum, and

- a 5.75% increase over the period of the agreement for those earning over €32,000 per annum.

The proposals have been presented to both PDFORRA and RACO, who participated in the negotiation process. They will now be subject to ballot by members of the Associations. Future remuneration of Defence Forces personnel will continue to be dealt with within this process.

Officials in my Department continue to engage on a regular basis with both Representative Associations. An example of one of the benefits of these negotiations is that an agreement was reached earlier this year between the Department of Defence, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and PDFORRA on a revised payscale for general service recruits and privates who joined the Permanent Defence Force post 1 January 2013.

Defence Forces Reserve

132 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRA0260045. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the position regarding recruitment to the Reserve Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32092/17]

11/07/2017WRA02700Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Government appreciates the service of the Reserve Defence Force (RDF) and the White Paper on Defence is clear that there is a continued requirement to retain and develop the Reserve. The White Paper on Defence confirms that the primary role of the Reserve is to augment the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) in times of crisis. In non-crisis situations, the main focus will be on training to prepare for this role. Recruitment to both the PDF and RDF continues to remain a priority in 2017. The last RDF General Service Recruitment Competition was launched in September 2015 and closed on the 31st December 2016. In total, 5,464 (including 726 females) applied for this competition.

Applicants from the 2015/16 competition continue to be processed and inducted once they satisfy all induction criteria. I am informed that security clearance delays remain a barrier to progressing applicants for induction and the delays in the competition stages negatively impact the resilience of the RDF panels. I have requested that these issues be considered with a view to improving the timeframe and I look forward to seeing an improvement in this matter.

The next RDF General Service Recruitment campaigns for both the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve will begin in late July 2017. The campaigns will run for several weeks post Leaving Certificate with a view to inducting successful applicants at Easter and in Summer 2018 for camp participation. To-date in 2017, there have been 49 inductions to the RDF. A total of 80 inductions took place in 2016.

I remain committed to increasing recruitment to the PDF and RDF. In the context of both finite resources and personnel, it is necessary to strike an appropriate balance in terms of PDF and RDF recruitment, so as to deliver the desired effects of maintaining the capacity of the De- fence Forces to undertake all roles assigned to it by Government.

Questions Nos. 46 and 47 answered orally.

Military Medals

11/07/2017WRB0020048. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will consider awarding the 1916 medal to members of two organisations (details supplied). [32182/17]

11/07/2017WRB00300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): As part of the Programme for Government, it was decided that a 1916 Centenary Commemorative medal be awarded to all Defence Forces personnel, both Permanent and Reserve, who were recorded as being in service in the course of 2016. The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal was awarded as a commemorative medal, personal to an individual’s service in the Defence Forces in the course of 2016.

I met with the Veterans Organisations (Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel (ONE), Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA) and Association of Retired Com- missioned Officers (ARCO)) on the 15 th December last, and while I reiterated to them that there are no plans to award the 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal to Veterans, it was agreed to hold further discussions between the Department and the Veterans’ Organisations to explore alternative means of recognition.

At my request officials from my Department met with representatives of the Veterans’ Or- 133 Questions - Written Answers ganisations on Friday 17th February 2017 and Wednesday 31st May 2017. My officials proposed that a single presentation will be made to the Veterans Organisations of a commemorative plaque or framed medal with an accompanying citation in recognition of the significant contribution of members of the three organisations to the 1916 centenary commemorative events and their service to the State. The plaque or medal would have a bar with the term Veteran inscribed on it.

The Veterans’ Organisations agreed to the proposal to recognise the contribution of veterans in 2016 in this way. They have all since indicated their preference for a plaque. At their request the Department has agreed that a plaque will be given to O.N.E.’s Headquarters and to each of its 40 Branches and to each of IUNVA’s 21 Posts. One plaque will be presented to each Veter- ans’ Organisation at the Veterans’ Day on Sunday 8th October 2017. The other presentations will be made separately.

Defence Forces Medicinal Products

11/07/2017WRB0040049. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his views on concerns regarding the ongoing use of lariam as an anti-malarial medication for members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32090/17]

11/07/2017WRB00500Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Deputy will be aware that this matter was the subject of discussion at a recent Private Member’s Motion in the Dáil on 28 th June last. As I indicated to the House, Malaria is a serious disease and is a threat to any military force operating in areas where the disease is prevalent. There are three anti-malarial drugs in use by the Irish Defence Forces, namely Lariam (mefloquine), Malarone and Doxycycline. The choice of medication for overseas deployment, including the use of Lar- iam, is a medical decision made by Medical Officers in the Defence Forces, having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Irish Defence Forces.

Significant precautions are taken by the Defence Forces Medical Officers in assessing the medical suitability of members of our Defence Forces to take any of the anti-malarial medications. It is the policy of the Defence Forces that personnel are individually screened for fitness for service overseas and medical suitability.

A Working Group is currently examining issues arising in relation to the use of Lariam and has obtained advice from leading medical experts both national and international. The Group is continuing to engage with these experts and met again in June. I anticipate receiving its Report shortly.

I understand that the Working Group are considering options to formalise the provision of ongoing external expert medical advice to the Defence Forces in relation to a range of medical matters, including malaria chemoprophylaxis.

When I receive the Group’s report, I can assure the Deputy that I will carefully consider its recommendations. Finally, I want to make it very clear that the health and welfare of the De- fence Forces is a high priority for me and the military authorities.

Question No. 50 answered with Question No. 44.

Defence Forces Pensions

11/07/2017WRB0070051. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the reason 134 11 July 2017 for the decision to end the supplementary pension paid to military personnel commissioned after 2013 that was in place to bridge the gap from the date of their mandatory retirement to the time of receipt of the State pension; his plans to remove mandatory retirement in lieu of the decision to end the supplementary pensions for military personnel commissioned after 2013; the effect the decision to end the supplementary pensions for military personnel commissioned after 2013 will have on retention within the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32264/17]

11/07/2017WRB00800Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The occupational pension scheme terms of post-1 January 2013 new entrants to the public service, including entrants to the Permanent Defence Force, are governed by the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012. All first-time new entrants to pensionable public service employment on or after that date are members of the Single Scheme.

Under the 2012 Act, overall statutory responsibility for the Single Scheme pension terms and rules rests with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.

The Single Scheme was one of the key structural reform commitments agreed by Govern- ment with the EU/IMF under the programme of financial support for Ireland. In the context of the Government’s decision to introduce the Single Scheme, a stated primary objective is to help significantly reduce the cost of public service pensions in the longer-term through far-reaching transformation and reform of the public service pension system. It provides for a new approach which modernises and standardises pension arrangements throughout the public service. The terms and rules of the Single Scheme – which are fundamentally different to the superannuation arrangements of all public servants recruited before 1 January 2013 – make no provision for the concept or award of supplementary pensions for any new entrants joining any public service group on or after 1 January 2013. This position has been confirmed to the Permanent Defence Force Representative Associations.

However, the absence of any provision for the supplementary pension concept in the Single Scheme must be viewed in the overall context of the fundamental changes and reforms to the pension scheme terms of post-2013 new entrants. Such reforms were decided by Government and the Oireachtas as necessary to support the long-term financial sustainability of the public service pension system. In that context, there are many other established features of the pre-1 January 2013 public service occupational pension arrangements that have been discontinued, or that have been fundamentally changed, under the Single Scheme.

I should also mention that Single Scheme members in the Permanent Defence Force retain the minimum pension age of 50 to reflect operational needs, as already applies to new entrant military personnel recruited since April 2004. This compares with an effective raising of the minimum pension age, from 65 to 68 years, in the case of the mainstream ‘standard accrual’ membership occupations in the Single Scheme. Moreover, the 2012 Act does not alter military retirement ages for future or serving military personnel generally, or upper service limits where applicable – these will continue to be determined by the Minister for Defence, following consultation with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform .

The 2015 White Paper on Defence and the earlier 3rd Report of the Independent Monitoring Group (IMG), reiterated the objective of ensuring an appropriate age profile for the Permanent Defence Force. A key element in military life is the need for personnel to maintain a level of fitness for combat readiness. This requirement must be balanced with the need to retain experience and expertise, particularly at managerial level in the Defence Forces. These HR and manpower policy objectives are in turn supported by concepts such as fast accrual pension arrangements, earlier mandatory retirement ages and/or minimum pension ages than the norm,

135 Questions - Written Answers upper service limits for certain ranks, and so on.

The 2015 White Paper on Defence sets the defence policy agenda for the following ten years. One of the 88 actions that have been specifically identified as part of the work being carried out to implement the White Paper, is to conduct, in the medium term, a review of HR policies in relation to recruitment, training and education, performance management, reward systems, and retention and retirement policies alongside appropriate age profiles for personnel across the Defence Forces. The question of the appropriate mandatory retirement ages for commissioned and enlisted ranks will be carefully considered by my Department in that context.

I am advised that a claim has been received from RACO seeking an increase in officer retirement ages. That matter will be the subject of discussions between the Official Side and RACO in due course under the established machinery, the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for Permanent Defence Force. In the meantime, there are no plans to remove mandatory retirement ages for military personnel who join the Permanent Defence Force on or after 1 January 2013, whether in enlisted or commissioned officer ranks.

There is no empirical evidence to support the theory or claim that the absence from the Single Scheme of provision for the concept or award of supplementary pensions will impact on retention levels among post-2013 new entrants to the Permanent Defence Force, whatever their rank.

Given the unique and demanding nature of military life, and the HR and manpower policy objectives outlined earlier, there is understandably a high level of turnover among Defence Forces personnel compared to other occupations. However, this is not new and pre-dates the introduction of the Single Scheme in 2013, notwithstanding the inclusion of supplementary pension arrangements in the occupational pension scheme terms of commissioned officers who joined the Permanent Defence Force from 6 April 1995 to 31 December 2012 and, indeed, enlisted personnel who did so in the period from 1 April 2004 to 31 December 2012.

In order to deal with the challenges associated with the turnover of personnel, a continuous yearly recruitment drive is operated by the Defence Forces and in 2017, it is planned to recruit 860 personnel across all services.

Defence Forces Properties

11/07/2017WRB0090052. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will engage with voluntary housing bodies such as an organisation (details supplied) to explore the potential of renovating existing buildings at Columb Barracks, Mullingar for housing accommodation purposes and also for community activities. [32181/17]

11/07/2017WRB01000Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): As I have previously informed the Deputy following the closure of Columb Barracks in 2012, my Department has explored a number of avenues to try and secure the long term future of the former barracks for the benefit of the local community. Government Departments and other Public Bodies, including Westmeath County Council, have been invited to declare any interest in acquiring the property. Westmeath County Council has recently confirmed that it has no such interest.

In 2016, officials from my Department met with the CEO and officials of Longford and Westmeath Educational and Training Board regarding the possible use of Mullingar Barracks - including a site visit. To date, I have received no proposals from the Board regarding the future use of the barracks nor has there been any approach from the Department of Education and Skills. 136 11 July 2017 In May 2016 officials from my Department attended a public meeting in Mullingar on the future use of the barracks. A local group was subsequently established in order to prepare a feasibility study on its use by the community. However, no report from that group has been furnished to my Department to date.

On the 27th April this year Mr. Simon Coveney T.D., the then Minister for Housing, Plan- ning, Community and Local Government, launched the online Rebuilding Ireland Housing Land Map as a key part of the Rebuilding Ireland initiative. Columb Barracks has been included as one of the publicly owned sites which may have the potential for housing development. To date my officials have had no formal approaches in this regard.

As the barracks is no longer required for military purposes the current financial and administrative burden resulting from its retention cannot be sustained. In its current condition the barracks is not suitable for residential accommodation and any refurbishment or renovation would require significant investment in order to meet the required standards from a health and safety perspective.

Having regard to the lack of expressions of interest for the acquisition of the barracks I have instructed my officials to continue to proceed with its disposal by public auction in the coming months. In this context, my officials will be contacting all existing occupants to discuss future arrangements.

Notwithstanding this my officials are available to meet with representatives of the Father McVerry Trust to discuss with them any proposals they may have regarding the possible future use of the barracks.

Defence Forces Medicinal Products

11/07/2017WRB0110053. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he has instructed the military authorities to cease issuing lariam to soldiers as per the Dáil Éireann’s in- structions on 28 June 2017; and if he has begun the preparations for consultation with soldiers’ representative groups in conjunction with the HSE to help alleviate the ongoing effects on some soldiers that were issued the anti-malaria drug lariam. [32261/17]

11/07/2017WRB01200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): As I stated in my reply to the Private Member s’ Motion which was before the Dáil on 28 June, fundamentally the use of anti-malarial drugs is a medical matter that should be decided by qualified medical professionals. In the Defence Forces these are decisions for highly qualified Medical Officers having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Defence Forces. I have already indicated that a Working Group is currently examining issues arising in relation to the use of Lariam. In its earlier work in 2013, the Group obtained advice from leading medical experts who concurred with the practices followed by the Defence Forces in prescribing Lariam.

The Group is continuing to engage with national and international experts and its most recent meeting was held on 28 June 2017.

I anticipate receiving its Report shortly and I will carefully consider the Group’s recommendations. 137 Questions - Written Answers With regard to support services generally that are available to members of the Permanent Defence Force, the position is that there is a range of support services, both medical and non medical, available to all Defence Forces Personnel. These include access to Defence Forces Medical Officers, Psychiatric, Psychological and Personnel Support Services. The Defence Forces Personnel Support Services provide a confidential information, education, support and referral service designed to give Defence Forces personnel, and their families, access to information and services both from within the military community and outside it on a range of issues. There is a Personnel Support Services Officer in each Barracks/Station. These officers can provide counselling support and also undertake regular briefing of personnel. In addition, a strictly confidential 24 hour care-line, manned by trained counsellors, is available to Defence Forces personnel.

I would like to again remind the Deputy that there is ongoing litigation in relation to this matter. The State Claims Agency manages claims on behalf of the Department of Defence and has confirmed that to date 55 claims have been made by members and former members of the Defence Forces who allege personal injury as a result of their consumption of mefloquine (Lariam). The first case was scheduled to be heard in the High Court on 4th July last and has now been adjourned to 3 November 2017. You will therefore appreciate that I am constrained in my discussions on the matter.

I wish to assure the Deputy that the health and welfare of the men and women of the De- fence Forces is a high priority for me and the Defence Forces.

White Paper on Defence

11/07/2017WRB0130054. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the status of measures contained in the White Paper on Defence regarding a proposal for a new employment support scheme with the direct involvement of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32091/17]

11/07/2017WRB01400Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The White Paper on Defence committed the Government to putting in place a new employment support scheme with the direct involvement of the Defence Forces. A successful pilot programme was held in Gormanston Camp from 20th June 2016 to 26th August 2016 with 25 participants. Following an evaluation of the pilot programme and Ministerial approval, it is intended to run 2 iterations of the programme in 2017.

The objective of this 10-week scheme is to help develop a path to economic independence for participants, aged between 18 and 24 years, who are at a serious disadvantage owing to their current socio-economic situation. The scheme is designed with the specific aim of equipping participants with life and other marketable and certifiable skills which will assist them both in their capacity to participate fully in society as well as their ability to enter the workforce and or to pursue further education for this purpose.

Participants retain any Department of Social Protection benefits that they are currently entitled to for the duration of the Scheme. Participation on the scheme is wholly voluntary for the relevant cohort of jobseekers and there is no penalty applied for non-participation or engagement in the programme. Participants do not receive any payment from the Department of Defence.

A programme is currently underway in Limerick. This programme started on 22nd May 2017 and will run to 28th July 2017. There are 15 participants on the programme.

138 11 July 2017 Preparations involving the Defence Organisation, the Department of Social Protection and the Dublin & Dún Laoghaire Education and Training Board are underway for the second programme in 2017 to start in the Defence Forces’ Gormanston Camp, Co. Meath, on 9th October. It is intended that this programme will run to 15th December 2017 and will cater for up to 30 participants.

Question No. 55 answered with Question No. 34.

Brexit Issues

11/07/2017WRB0160056. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the position regarding the preparations of his Department and the Defence Forces for Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32509/17]

11/07/2017WRB01700Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The outcome of the vote of 23 June 2016 in the UK will have implications across all aspects of the business of the European Union. While the vote does not give rise to fundamental strategic issues for De- fence Forces operations or for Ireland’s continuing engagement within the EU in the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), it is expected that Brexit will have an impact on future developments in the Defence sphere.

Structures have been put in place in the Department of Defence to address the potential challenges arising from Brexit including the assignment of responsibility to a senior official at As- sistant Secretary General level in relation to Brexit related matters. The senior official is leading the Department’s input to deliberations within the framework established across Government and is supported in their role by a number of branches in the Department. The senior official represents the Department on the Interdepartmental Group on EU-UK Affairs which is chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach and is engaged with the identification of key strategic, operational and policy issues arising from Brexit. In addition, the Management Board is acting as a clearing house for Brexit and maintains oversight on an ongoing basis. As the Deputy will also be aware, the Government has adopted a contingency framework to deal with all issues arising in respect of the UK vote to leave the EU. Accordingly, any issues arising, including those within the Defence area, whether bilateral, or in respect of developments in CSDP, or regarding our wider international multilateral defence engagements, will be also addressed within that framework. The formal EU-UK negotiations commenced last month. All potential consequences in the defence sphere, arising during these negotiations, will remain the subject of ongoing consideration by my Department throughout this process.

In respect of the border, the potential implications in this regard will emerge during the course of the negotiations. It is this Government’s stated goal to try to ensure that the current on-island border arrangements are maintained to the greatest extent possible. Responsibility for the security aspect of border control rests with An Garda Síochána, while the Revenue Commis- sioners also have responsibilities relating to their particular mandate. 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 provide support to An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. The Defence Forces also provide support to the Revenue Commissioners on request. The De- fence Forces at all times keep operational plans under constant review and there will continue to be ongoing close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters, including through regular coordination and liaison meetings. Similarly, in respect of fisheries protection and monitoring of Irish waters, the potential implications will emerge during the course of the negotiations. Accordingly, it is difficult at this stage to anticipate the implications including the impact on fishery protection requirements. My Department, together 139 Questions - Written Answers with the Naval Service and the Air Corps are working closely with the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA), who are the competent authority on this matter, in relation to Brexit. Ongo- ing liaison with the European Fisheries Control Agency and with other Member States, will continue as appropriate.

In addition, the Government Task Force (GTF) on Emergency Planning has been briefed on potential emergency planning implications/issues that may arise from Brexit . The GTF will continue to monitor any future impacts on emergency planning that may arise as the Brexit negotiations unfold.

The Government is under no illusions about the complexity of these negotiations. In that regard, I wish to reassure the Deputy that my Department is monitoring the ongoing situation to ensure that my Department and the Defence Forces are fully prepared to address any potential issues arising in the defence area on foot of Brexit.

Defence Forces Reserve Training

11/07/2017WRB0180057. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to introduce legislation to ensure employers allow members of the Reserve Defence Forces time off for training in view of the important work they do for the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32346/17]

11/07/2017WRB01900Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): Members of the Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve are volunteers who undertake training in their spare time. In order to facilitate the voluntary nature of Reserve Service, training continues to be organised both in and out of normal working hours and at weekends. Reserve training is also organised during academic and traditional holiday periods, in order to maximise attendance of Reserve personnel. The focus will continue to be on organising training that facilitates attendance by the maximum number of Reservists. However, there are no plans to introduce legislation to compel employers to allow members of the Reserve to attend training.

I am satisfied that the extensive and professional training provided to the Reserve is a major motivating factor in encouraging people to join it as well as encouraging retention of existing members.

Curragh Plains Representative Forum

11/07/2017WRB0200058. Deputy James Lawless asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the measures his Department has put in place to safeguard the unique heritage of the Curragh plains or is in the process of putting in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32505/17]

11/07/2017WRB0210062. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the position regarding the work of the Curragh Forum; when it is expected to meet again in view of recent changes in personnel in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32511/17]

11/07/2017WRB02200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 62 together.

At the most recent meeting of the Curragh Forum, several actions were agreed by the members to assist in addressing a number of the problems in the Curragh. In line with agreed actions, a review of the Curragh Bye-Laws and the Curragh of Kildare Act is progressing with 140 11 July 2017 a view to identifying any amendments that can be made to assist in dealing with the issues of encampments, dumping, parking and the other key issues identified by the Forum. In addition, my officials have recently introduced revised procedures regarding the branding and document- ing of sheep grazing on the Curragh plains to facilitate enhanced visibility and control on their numbers. Actions to address overgrazing will also be progressed in 2017.

Plans are being prepared to progress a number of other agreed actions including signage and the development of facilities on the environs of the Curragh. It is intended to convene a further meeting of the Curragh Forum in the near future to discuss these and other relevant matters.

Question No. 59 answered with Question No. 44.

Air Corps Strength

11/07/2017WRC0020060. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Air Corps has sufficient personnel, equipment and training to meet all emergencies as required, on land or sea, including coastal patrols and air and sea rescue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32483/17]

11/07/2017WRC00300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): My priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service, is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles as assigned by Government. The Air Corps continues to provide a broad range of services on a daily basis in accordance with its primary security roles including Army and Naval Service supports, maritime patrols and fishery protection and supports in Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP). In 2016, as with all other elements of the Defence Forces, the Air Corps responded to 100% of requests for ATCP support , comprising 1,350 separate missions , and carried out 297 separate maritime patrol missions.

In addition, the Air Corps continues to undertake a diverse range of non-security related tasks such as the Emergency Aeromedical Support service, as well as inter-hospital transfers and Search and Rescue (SAR) supports which are provided in accordance with relevant Service Level Agreements.

With regard to the recruitment and training of personnel, 10 Air Corps Pilot Officer cadets are due to be inducted in Q3 2017 and there are currently 3 Cadet Classes, with 26 personnel at various stages of their Pilot Officer ‘Wings Course’. Training is on-going with three Air Corps Apprentice Aircraft Technician classes plus 12 personnel in Air Traffic Services Training.

Equipment priorities for the Air Corps are being considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper on Defence. The White Paper provides that the Air Corps will see the Cessna fleet replaced with three larger aircraft suitably equipped for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance tasks. A Fixed Wing Utility Aircraft (Cessna replacement) tender competition was initiated on the 4th May with submissions received by the deadline of the 29th June. The evaluation process is now underway.

The White Paper also provides for the replacement of two CASA 235s Maritime Patrol Air- craft with larger more capable aircraft. In addition, a PC-9M aircraft to replace the aircraft lost following a fatal crash in 2009 was delivered last week at a cost of €5m plus VAT.

I am satisfied that the range of measures and initiatives being taken will enhance the resources available to the Air Corps and help to ensure that the Defence Forces can continue to fulfil all roles assigned by Government in the White Paper on Defence. 141 Questions - Written Answers Defence Forces Courts-Martial

11/07/2017WRC0040061. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Judge Ad- vocate General has made a report on military trials over the past two years; if so, if it will be made public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32480/17]

11/07/2017WRC00500Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): Section 15 of the Defence Act 1954 provides for the appointment of a Judge Advocate General of the Defence Forces. It stipulates that the Judge Advocate General shall be a practicing barrister-at-law of at least ten year’s standing, but cannot be a member of the Defence Forces and shall be appointed by, and hold office during the pleasure of, the President. The current Judge Advocate General was appointed with effect from 24 September 2001. The duties assigned to the JAG on her appointment in 2001 were as follows:

a) The furnishing of advice and recommendations on proceedings of courts-martial before the findings and/or sentence are, where confirmation is required, confirmed by a confirming authority and;

b) The furnishing of advice generally on matters of military law.

The Judge Advocate General also exercises duties in relation to the holding of courts martial. The Courts Martial Administrator to whom she provides general supervision is appointed under her warrant. She is a member of the Committee which identifies persons wishing to be considered for the appointment of military judge. She administers the oath to be sworn by a military judge and she is an ex officio member of the Court Martial Rules Committee. The Judge Advocate General discharges her duties on a part time basis.

No report has been made to the Government on military trials over the past two years; nor is there any statutory obligation on the Judge Advocate General to have furnished such a report.

Question No. 62 answered with Question No. 58.

Question No. 63 answered with Question No. 43.

Question No. 64 answered with Question No. 40.

Industrial Relations

11/07/2017WRC0090065. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces access to the industrial relations mechanisms of the State will be changed in tandem with changes to the rights of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32508/17]

11/07/2017WRC01000Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): As I have previously stated, I am keeping this matter under review pending the output of the Working Group on Industrial Relations Structures for an Garda Síochána, which has been established by the Department of Justice and Equality.

Under the terms of the Defence (Amendment) Act, 1990 the Defence Forces Representative Associations are prohibited from being associated with, or affiliated to any trade unions, or any other body. Accordingly, the Representative Associations cannot be affiliated to ICTU. The basis for the prohibition is that it would be inappropriate to apply the provisions of the Industrial Relations Act, 1990 to members of the Defence Forces.

142 11 July 2017 The taking of any form of industrial action is irreconcilable with military service. This is a long standing policy position taken by respective Governments since the foundation of the State. The Defence Forces may be called on to contribute to maintaining vital services in times of industrial action. The potential for serious difficulties and conflicts could arise in these circumstances if the Defence Forces Representative Associations were associated with, or affiliated to ICTU, given ICTU rules in relation to such matters.

The Conciliation and Arbitration scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) provides a formal mechanism for the PDF Representative Associations, RACO and PD- FORRA, to engage with the Official side. The purpose of the scheme is to provide a means for the determination of claims and proposals from the Associations relating to remuneration and conditions of service.

In addition, a framework exists which facilitates the Associations engaging with the official side in talks parallel to those taking place between ICTU and the official side at National level.

However, I can advise the Deputy that I plan to initiate a review of the Conciliation and Ar- bitration Scheme for members of the Permanent Defence Force, with the review to commence before the end of 2017. The output from the Working Group, which is considering Industrial Relations Structures for an Garda Síochána, will be considered as part of the review of the arrangements for the Permanent Defence Force.

Defence Forces Strength

11/07/2017WRD0020066. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which optimum strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps continues to be achieved; the extent of recruitment likely or required in the short and medium term as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32484/17]

11/07/2017WRD00300848. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the strength of each branch of the Defence Forces; if the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps are below strength in areas which might impede an effective response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32983/17]

11/07/2017WRD00400Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 848 together.

The Government is committed to maintaining a strength level of 9,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force (PDF). This comprises 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service personnel, as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence. The current strength (Whole Time Equivalent) of the PDF as of the 31st May 2017 (the latest date for which figures are available) is 9,044 comprising of 7,254 Army, 703 Air Corps and 1,087 Naval Service.

The 2017 Cadet Competition was launched on 22 March 2017. In total there were 3,466 applicants for all 7 competitions which are; Army Cadet, Army Engineer Cadet, Army Equitation Cadet, Air Corps Pilot Cadet, Naval Service Operations Cadet, Naval Service Marine Engineer 143 Questions - Written Answers Cadet and Naval Service Electrical Engineer Cadet. The competition has progressed through the Application stage and Online Unsupervised Psychometric Assessments, to the Assessment Centre stage which involves Group Assessment, Fitness Tests and a Realistic Job Preview. A total of 100 Cadet inductions are planned to take place in September 2017.

General Service Recruitment Campaigns for both the Army and Naval Service were launched on 23 February 2017. The competitions have now progressed and recruitment has commenced. In total there were 5,210 applicants for these competitions an increase of 13.5% compared with 2016. The competition has now progressed through the Application and Online Psychometric Assessment stages to Fitness Testing and Competency Based Interviews and inductions are planned to take place in September/October 2017. There are plans to launch another Air Corps Trainee Military Aircraft Technician Competition shortly and induct up to 25 Apprentices in Quarter 3/Quarter 4 2017.

Defence Forces Veterans

11/07/2017WRD0050067. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the contact or assistance planned by his Department to the July fuchsia appeal operated by an organisation (details supplied) to address homelessness among former members of the Defence Forces. [32350/17]

11/07/2017WRD00600Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Organisa- tion of National Ex-Service Personnel (O.N.E.) is an organisation dedicated to looking after the welfare of ex-service personnel of the Irish Defence Forces. It provides accommodation to homeless, elderly or disabled members in need of such domestic accommodation and shelter as well as other assistance and advice as required. O.N.E. has accommodation in Smithfield, Dublin (Brú na bhFiann with 30 places), Athlone (7 places) and Letterkenny (7 places), a drop- in centre in Limerick and an advice centre in Dundalk. O.N.E. has enjoyed the long standing official recognition of the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces. Officials from my Department hold regular meetings with O.N.E., and the other recognised veterans’ organisations, at which issues of concern to their members are discussed. Under the terms of a Service Level Agreement with O.N.E., and as part of the supports currently offered to veterans, my Department provides an annual subvention, currently €44,000, to support the general overheads of the organisation.

I provide support by attendance at specific events whenever I can. I had pleasure in attending the launch of O.N.E.’s annual Fuchsia fundraising appeal on Wednesday 28th June 2017. The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Vice Admiral Mark Mellett, launched the appeal which will continue throughout the month of July. I am advised that Defence Forces units and installations throughout the country undertake fundraising in support of the work of O.N.E. on behalf of veterans. The military authorities encourage such fundraising as an illustration of the solidarity and bonds that exists between veterans and serving personnel.

The Defence Organisation and I are committed to continued engagement with O.N.E. into the future.

Question No. 68 answered with Question No. 34.

144 11 July 2017 Defence Forces Personnel

11/07/2017WRD0080069. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence his plans to address the three fundamental findings of the recent focus group climate survey on the Defence Forces concerning pay, retention and human resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32506/17]

11/07/2017WRD00900Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Independent Monitoring Group was established in 2002 to oversee the implementation of recommendations intended to improve HR management and institutional culture, including dealing with interper- sonal issues and dignity in the workplace. One of the recommendations of the Third Report of the Implementation Monitoring Group (2014) was the undertaking of a workplace climate study. The intended purpose of undertaking the study was to build upon the actions undertaken to date and to identify trends to inform practice in HR, including training and education.

The most recent report is the second phase of the climate study which further explores the issues raised in a survey, which reported in 2015.

The issues considered in the latest report include pay and conditions, vacancies within the Defence Forces and recruitment and retention, promotion systems, performance management, leadership, culture, stress, work-life balance, the Personnel Support Service, diversity, the De- fence Forces medical system and Representation.

I was briefed on the report at the end of June, and directed that the Oversight Group of the IMG which includes the Representative Associations be briefed. I proposed that once the groups had been given time to consider the report I would meet with them to hear their views on how best to address the HR issues raised. That meeting is scheduled to take place on 13 th July 2017. It is then my intention to consider publication of the report.

Progress has been made in respect of issues detailed in the report and I will continue to work closely with both civil and military management, and the IMG, in addressing these matters.

Public Service pay is based on collective agreements negotiated with public service trade unions and representative associations. Future remuneration of Defence Forces personnel will continue to be dealt with within this process.

Since the survey was carried out , PDFORRA have signed up to the Lansdowne Road Agree- ment (LRA) resulting in increases in pay/salary for members of the association. A revision to pay scales has also provided significant pay improvements to certain of its members.

Further benefits are provided for under the extended LRA which is under the consideration of the Representative Associations.

The broad range of HR issues raised in the survey will be further explored by senior management. I have instructed both civil and military management to bring forward proposals in respect of retaining specialists, providing for re-entry and where appropriate direct entry and I expect to be in receipt of these proposals shortly.

The findings of this Report will contribute to informing the work which is already underway across the Defence Organisation ensuring that the Defence Forces have the capability and capacity to carry out the roles assigned by Government, and remain an attractive employer/career of choice.

Military Medals 145 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRD0100070. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he will consider resolving the legacy issue of Naval Service veterans of the LÉ Cliona in view of the proposed changes in legislation to facilitate the awarding of medals to the men of A Company that took part in the siege of Jadotville. [32351/17]

11/07/2017WRD01100Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): Both of these events were separate and distinct and were commemorated separately and appropriately having regard to the individual circumstances of each.

Following a review by the military authorities into this incident, I presented Scrolls of Com- mendation to former crew members of the LÉ Cliona at a ceremony held on board the L.É. Niamh in Dublin on 1 September 2016, in formal recognition of their brave and decisive actions in bringing a serious fire on board the ship under control. Later that month, I also unveiled a plaque at the Naval Service Headquarters in Haulbowline commemorating the ship’s company of the LÉ Cliona for their team effort in ensuring the safe return of the ship to port following this fire. I am satisfied that the ceremonies which took place in 2016 fully reflect both my own and the Defence Forces appreciation of the great effort made by the crew of the LÉ Cliona on 29 May 1962.

The former Taoiseach, Mr Enda Kenny, T.D. and I recently announced that the surviving members of the 35th Infantry Battalion A company, who fought at the Siege of Jadotville in 1961, would be awarded medals. This medal, which will be issued on behalf of the State, is to recognise their collective bravery during this unique incident. Planning is under way for a medals ceremony later this year.

The decision taken to honour those men who took part in the Siege of Jadotville is an exceptional step which builds upon my decision last year to award a Unit citation and gives full recognition to their performance during the Siege.

Defence Forces Medicinal Products

11/07/2017WRD0120071. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if psychological or neurological damage as a result of being prescribed lariam mefloquine while serving in the De- fence Forces is an accepted ground upon which an Army disability pension will be paid; and if not, the reason therefor. [32349/17]

11/07/2017WRD01300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): Under the Army Pensions Acts 1923-1980 a disability pension or gratuity may, following retirement, be granted to a former member of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) for permanent disablement due to a wound or injury attributable to military service (whether at home or abroad) or to a disease which is secondary to an injury, or is attributable to, or aggravated by, overseas service with a United Nations Force.

The criteria for awarding a disability pension or gratuity are based on;

(a) whether the applicant is suffering from a permanent disablement due to wound/injury which is attributable to his military service at home or abroad, or to a disease which is secondary to an injury, or is attributable to or aggravated by service with a United Nations Force abroad,

and

(b) the percentage degree of disablement from which the applicant is suffering.

146 11 July 2017 The award of a disability pension or gratuity depends on the findings of the Army Pensions Board. The rate of disability pension depends on the degree of disablement as assessed by that Board.

The Army Pensions Board is an independent statutory body consisting of a chairman and two ordinary members (both doctors). The Chairman and one doctor are civilians and the other member is a serving Army doctor. The Board’s principal function is to investigate applications for pensions, allowances and gratuities under the Acts and to report to the Minister thereon.

The Board determines the question of attributability to military service in each case; assesses the degree of disability; and reports its findings to the Department, which acts on the Board’s findings including the grant or refusal of appropriate benefits. The findings of the Army Pensions Board in regard to ‘attributability’ are final and conclusive and binding. However, there is provision for review of awards or refusals subject to certain conditions, for example if additional relevant information has subsequently become available.

The Board assesses applications on a case by case basis and makes its findings based on an examination of the applicant and their medical records, and on the individual circumstances of the case. The Board can, on a case by case basis, decide to seek additional medical opinion if this is considered necessary.

To date, the Board has not made a finding of a disablement of psychological or neurological damage as a result of being prescribed lariam mefloquine while serving in the PDF.

National Minimum Wage

11/07/2017WRE0020072. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach the number of persons on a wage at or below the minimum wage by gender and age; and the percentage this represents of the overall workforce. [32531/17]

11/07/2017WRE00300Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Deputy Joe McHugh): The Quar- terly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of estimates of employment (ILO) in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q1 2017 when the proportion of employees aged 15 years and over reporting earning the National Minimum Wage or less in the State was 7.8% (122,800).

Tables 1 and 2 below show the total number of employees (ILO) aged 15 years and over reporting earning the National Minimum Wage or less classified by gender and age group and share of selected employees in Q1 2017.

Table 1 Employees (ILO) aged 15 years and over classified by gender and National Minimum Wage (NMW) earnings status

‘000 Gender National Minimum Wage Q1 17 earnings status Male Employees reporting earning 53.9 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 727.1 more than National Mini- mum Wage

147 Questions - Written Answers ‘000 Not stated 76.0 Total 856.9

Share of male employees 6.9 aged 15 years and over reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

Female Employees reporting earning 69.0 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 726.1 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 69.1 Total 864.3

Share of female employ- 8.7 ees aged 15 years and over reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

All employees Employees reporting earning 122.8 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 1,453.2 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 145.1 Total 1,721.2 Share of all employees aged 7.8 15 years and over reporting earning NMW or less (%)1 Source: Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS), Central Statistics Office, Ireland

Data may be subject to future revision.

Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.

Reference period: Q1=Jan-Mar.

1Note: Denominator excludes employees whose National Minimum Wage status was Not stated.

Table 2 Employees (ILO) aged 15 years and over classified by age group and National Minimum Wage (NMW) earnings status

‘000

148 11 July 2017 Age group National Minimum Wage Q1 17 earnings status 15-19 years Employees reporting earning 16.9 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 10.6 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 5.9 Total 33.3

Share of employees aged 15- 61.7 19 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

20-24 years Employees reporting earning 27.9 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 74.0 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 20.0 Total 122.0

Share of employees aged 20- 27.4 24 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

25-34 years Employees reporting earning 34.6 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 364.4 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 41.1 Total 440.0

Share of employees aged 25- 8.7 34 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

35-44 years Employees reporting earning 22.5 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 449.2 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 32.1 149 Questions - Written Answers Age group National Minimum Wage Q1 17 earnings status Total 503.8

Share of employees aged 35- 4.8 44 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

45-54 years Employees reporting earning 12.1 National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 340.1 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 26.1 Total 378.2

Share of employees aged 45- 3.4 54 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

55-59 years Employees reporting earning [4.3] National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 123.5 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 9.8 Total 137.6

Share of employees aged 55- [3.4] 59 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

60-64 years Employees reporting earning * National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 71.9 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated 7.4 Total 82.4

Share of employees aged 60- * 64 years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

150 11 July 2017 Age group National Minimum Wage Q1 17 earnings status 65+ years Employees reporting earning * National Minimum Wage or less Employees reporting earning 19.6 more than National Mini- mum Wage Not stated [2.8] Total 23.9

Share of employees aged * 65+ years reporting earning NMW or less (%)1

*Estimates for numbers of persons or averages where there are less than 30 persons in a cell are not produced as estimates are too small to be considered reliable.

Parentheses [ ] indicate where there are 30-49 persons in a cell, estimates are considered to have a wider margin of error and should be treated with caution.

Data may be subject to future revision.

Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.

Reference period: Q1=Jan-Mar.

1Note: Denominator excludes employees whose National Minimum Wage status was Not stated.

State Visits

11/07/2017WRE0040073. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his meeting with the Prime Minister of Canada, Mr Justin Trudeau. [32099/17]

11/07/2017WRE00500The Taoiseach: I was delighted to welcome Prime Minister Trudeau and his family to Ire- land last week. The Prime Minister was especially welcome as my first international visitor and 151 Questions - Written Answers given the close and historical ties between our two countries. Our meeting was an opportunity to discuss our shared and common outlook on issues such as free trade, multilateralism and climate action.

We discussed the importance of the bilateral trade and investment relationship between our two countries. Annual Trade between Ireland and Canada is valued at over €2.75 billion whilst Canadian tourist traffic to Ireland has increased by 56% in three years, with close to 200,000 Canadians now visiting Ireland every year. The Prime Minister and I agreed that there is considerable potential for further growing trade and economic links given increased direct air access, CETA and the strength of our respective economies.

We discussed the current state of play in relation to Brexit since the commencement of negotiations and I outlined Ireland’s priorities in this regard. The Prime Minister was interested in developments in Northern Ireland and I updated him on the current political situation there. He reiterated to me the Canadian Government’s continued support for the Northern Ireland peace process and offered any assistance that might be useful to drive progress.

On CETA, the Prime Minister and I discussed the benefits and opportunities from the agreement for both of our economies and progress towards the commencement of provisional application. CETA is a progressive and comprehensive agreement which will remove over 99% of tariffs and will create sizeable new market access opportunities in many sectors for Irish firms.

We discussed Climate Change and reaffirmed our commitment to the implementation of the Paris Accord. The Canadian Government is continuing its efforts to work with the US on Climate Change matters given that US withdrawal from the Paris Accord cannot proceed until 2020. In conclusion, the Prime Minister and I reaffirmed our commitment to working together across a range of common interests and I look forward to working to further strengthen the bilateral relations between Ireland and Canada in the time ahead.

Unemployment Data

11/07/2017WRE0060074. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach the unemployment blackspots nationwide according to the latest unemployment data in the Census 2016 Summary Results - Part 2, by county, in tabular form. [32012/17]

11/07/2017WRE00700Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Deputy Joe McHugh): The Cen- sus of Population 2016 Summary Results – Part 2 published on 15 June, 2017 recorded 79 unemployment blackspots. In this report an unemployment blackspot was defined as an Electoral Division whose labour force exceeded 200 persons and where the unemployment rate (on a Principal Economic Status basis) exceeded 27 per cent. There were 79 such EDs in 2016 with an average unemployment rate of 31.2 per cent compared with 12.9 per cent nationally. The following table is published in the report.

List of unemployment blackspots

County Electoral Division Unemployment rate John’s A, Limerick City 58.3% Galvone B, Limerick City 45.0% Ballynanty, Limerick City 43.6% Abbey C, Limerick City 41.9% Prospect B, Limerick City 40.7%

152 11 July 2017 County Electoral Division Unemployment rate Glentworth C, Limerick City 40.2% St. Laurence, Limerick City 39.2% Killeely A, Limerick City 38.8% Rathbane, Limerick City 33.8% Glentworth A, Limerick City 33.7% Singland A, Limerick City 33.6% Prospect A, Limerick City 33.1% John’s B, Limerick City 31.4% Killeely B, Limerick City 31.1% Rathkeale Urban, Limerick 31.1% Dock A, Limerick City 30.7% Shannon B, Limerick City 27.5% Limerick Custom House, Limerick 27.3% City Priorswood B, Dublin City 36.2% Tallaght-Killinardan, South 32.9% Dublin Clondalkin-Cappaghmore, 32.2% South Dublin Ballymun D, Dublin City 32.1% Ballymun B, Dublin City 31.8% Kilmore C, Dublin City 29.9% Finglas North A, Dublin 28.9% City Finglas South C, Dublin 28.7% City Blanchardstown-Tyrrel- 28.1% stown, Fingal Tallaght-Fettercairn, South 28.0% Dublin Ballymun C, Dublin City 28.0% Dublin Clondalkin-Rowlagh, South 27.2% Dublin Larchville, Waterford City 37.6% Morrisson’s Road, Waterford 32.6% Newport’s Square, Water- 32.3% ford City Lisduggan, Waterford City 31.5% Ballybeg North, Waterford 30.9% City The Glen, Waterford City 30.9% Roanmore, Waterford City 30.8% Mount Sion, Waterford City 30.0% Waterford Kingsmeadow, Waterford 29.3% Mín an Chladaigh, Donegal 35.3%

153 Questions - Written Answers County Electoral Division Unemployment rate Clonleigh South, Donegal 30.9% Gort an Choirce, Donegal 30.4% Raphoe, Donegal 29.2% Letterkenny Urban, Donegal 27.4% Donegal Leitir Mhic an Bhaird, 27.1% Donegal Knocknaheeny, Cork City 33.5% Mayfield, Cork City 33.2% The Glen A, Cork City 33.1% Fair Hill B, Cork City 29.7% Cork Farranferris B, Cork City 28.6% Ardnaree South Urban, 31.4% Mayo An Geata Mór Theas, Mayo 29.9% Cnoc na Lobhar, Mayo 29.6% Ballina Urban, Mayo 27.7% Mayo Cnoc na Ráithe, Mayo 27.0% Kilrush Urban, Clare 29.7% Ennis No. 2 Urban, Clare 29.1% Clare Kilkee, Clare 28.1% Longford No. 1 Urban, 39.7% Longford Meathas Truim, Longford 27.7% Longford Longford Rural, Longford 27.4% Enniscorthy Urban, Wexford 32.1% Rosbercon Urban, Wexford 30.8% Wexford Killincooly, Wexford 27.2% Cavan Urban, Cavan 35.8% Cavan Belturbet Urban, Cavan 33.5% Scainimh, Galway 34.3% Galway Garmna, Galway County 31.8% Tipperary East Urban, South 34.0% Tipperary Tipperary Carrick-on-Suir Urban, Tip- 29.2% perary Kerry Tralee Urban, Kerry 27.2% Kildare Athy West Urban, Kildare 35.0% Kilkenny Urlingford, Kilkenny 27.5% Louth Dundalk Urban No. 2, Louth 28.0% Meath Ceannanus Mór (Kells) Ur- 29.7% ban, Meath Monaghan Castleblayney Urban, 27.7% Monaghan Roscommon Boyle Urban, Roscommon 27.1%

154 11 July 2017 County Electoral Division Unemployment rate Westmeath Mullingar North Urban, 33.4% Westmeath Wicklow Rathmichael (Bray), Wick- 27.2% low Note:

The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of employment and unemployment statistics for the State. In the QNHS, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) classification is used and defines employment, unemployment and the inactive population. Unemployment is defined as persons who, in the week before the survey, were without work and available for work within the next two weeks, and had taken specific steps, in the preceding four weeks, to find work.

The Census uses the Principal Economic Status (PES) classification to establish the labour force situation of the respondent. The PES classification is based on how respondents would describe their present principal status including a status of being unemployed.

Living Wage Expenditure

11/07/2017WRE0080075. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department. [32569/17]

11/07/2017WRE00900The Taoiseach: The additional annual salary cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for employees directly employed by my Department or in bodies under its aegis is approximately €18,600.

Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRE0100076. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach the level of expenditure by his Depart- ment or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation; the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related; and the company or person to which such payments were made, in tabular form. [32658/17]

11/07/2017WRE01100The Taoiseach: The tables below detail expenditure by my Department on photography, advertising, communications advice/public relations and website development for the years 2013 to 2017 inclusive. There was no expenditure on interview training and preparation in those years. Expenditure for communications advice/public relations was only incurred by the Department in 2013.

Relevant expenditure in the various categories is also included for the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), the only body under the aegis of my Department.

PHOTOGRAPHY

2013

155 Questions - Written Answers Company Detail Amount Frank Fennell Photography EU Conference of Presi- € 116.85 Ltd dents, Dublin Castle on 31 December 2012 Frank Fennell Photography Presidency meeting of € 430.51 Ltd European Parliament Lead- ers, Dublin Castle 29th Nov 2012 Maxwell Photography Photography Prints for Con- € 1,763.46 vention Inaugural Meeting on 1st Dec 2012. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Family photo shot, post € 512.62 production touch up + prints (36copies) for the EU Direc- tors General Informal meeting (13-14/1/2013) Maxwell Photography 2 JPEG images of the Tao- € 34.44 iseach/Cyprus President Nov 2005 - 28 Jan 2013. Lafayette Photography Ltd Eucharistic Congress Recep- € 171.01 tion Dublin Castle 1st July 2012 Lafayette Photography Ltd Visit of Secretary of State € 19.43 Northern Ireland on 01 Oct 2012, 18 images sent to media Mac Innes Photography Ltd Photocall for 40 years in € 318.54 the EU, Art Exhibition, 25 February 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal Justice and Home € 1,471.99 Affairs meeting, Dublin Castle, 18/01/13 Mac Innes Photography Ltd EU Council President Her- € 1,645.47 man Van Rompuy visit, Dublin Castle, 9/1/2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal Justice and Home € 1,449.89 Affairs meeting, session 2, Dublin Castle, 17/1/2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal EU Affairs meet- € 1,564.62 ing, Dublin Castle 21/01/13. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal meeting of Em- € 817.91 ployment 8th Feb. 2013 Dublin Castle. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal meeting of Em- € 1,573.31 ployment 7th Feb. 2013 Dublin Castle. Levon Biss Photography Ltd Prints of Taoiseach’s Time € 111.95 Magazine cover 26/11/2012

156 11 July 2017 Company Detail Amount Mac Innes Photography Ltd 31st Dec 2012 for EU Flag € 669.09 Raising Ceremony attended by Taoiseach at Dublin Castle. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Visit of Presidents Barroso € 257.43 & Schulz at Government Buildings on 28/2/2013. - Post Production Fee Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal meeting of Defence € 817.91 Ministers 13/2/2013, Dublin Castle. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal meeting of De- € 1,559.45 velopment & Co-operation Ministers 12/2/2013, Dublin Castle. M M McNally Photographer Taoiseach’s visit to Downing € 335.03 Street on 11 March 2013. E Hill Photography Taoiseach’s visit to Enniskil- € 700.60 len, 11 November 2012. Peter Cavanagh Photography Whos Who for Presidency. € 1,600.00 27/28 Sept. 2012 & 16 Oct 2012. Magnum Computers Photos of Taoiseach’s visit € 192.41 to Cleveland, Ohio. October 2012. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Gymnich meeting - 23rd € 484.58 March 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Prints, Presentation Folders, € 1,181.62 Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of Energy Ministers at Dublin Castle 24 April, 2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Prints, Presentation Folders, € 1,307.04 Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of Environment Ministers at Dublin Castle 23 April, 2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal Meeting of Envi- € 821.57 ronment Ministers at Dublin Castle on 22nd April 2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Prints, Presentation Folders, € 1,535.67 Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of Ministers for Trade at Dublin Castle 18 April, 2013

157 Questions - Written Answers Company Detail Amount Mac Innes Photography Ltd Hunger-Nutrition Confer- € 968.41 ence at Dublin Castle 15 April,2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd ECOFIN Ministerial Infor- € 1,870.49 mal meeting on 13/4/2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Prints, Presentation Folders, € 4,126.55 Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of ECOFIN Min- isterial Informal 12 April 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Hunger-Nutrition & Climate € 817.91 Change at Dublin Castle on 16th April 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Commission College meet- € 2,042.61 ing Dublin Castle on 10 Jan 2013 - Prints & Digital Imaging Mac Innes Photography Ltd Health Informal Ministerial € 276.75 Meeting 4th March, Dublin Castle attendance Mac Innes Photography Ltd EU Presidency Team Group € 302.58 Shot on 01 May 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Health Informal Ministerial € 1,134.33 Meeting 5th March 2013- Dublin Castle. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Gymich meeting 22 March € 1,570.00 2013, Photography & Hi Res imaging Mac Innes Photography Ltd Ministerial Informal, Agri- € 2,453.74 culture Ministers on 27th & 28th May 2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Ministerial Informal - Com- € 817.91 petitiveness [Dept. DJEI] 2 May 2013 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Informal meeting of Com- € 1,134.34 petitiveness - Council day on 03 May 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Family photos of Presidency € 31.38 team at Government Build- ings on 01 May 2013. Mac Innes Photography Ltd Presidency Liaison Officers € 162.01 Photos at Dublin Castle on 27 May 2013. Marty Katz Photography & St Patrick’s Day Visit, New € 2,235.66 James Higgins Photography York - 16-17 March 2013

158 11 July 2017 Company Detail Amount Maxwell Photography North South Ministerial € 706.02 Meeting on 05/07/2013 at Dublin Castle Sundays F.T.P. images to Media outlets Maxwell Photography EU Presidency staff event on € 292.74 05/07/2013 at Dublin Castle - Upload of images to online gallery Maxwell Photography Round table discussion with € 292.74 the Taoiseach and on Online Retailers on 06 Sept 2013. Maxwell Photography Taoiseach’s meeting with € 249.69 Bill Clinton at Government Buildings - 09/10/2013 2014

Company Detail Amount Maxwell Photography Extra copies of prints of the €77.18 Queen & President Obama’s visit, May 2011 ordered for Taoiseach Maxwell Photography Photography assignment, €956.94 Taoiseach’s Address of the Nation, 15th December 2014 Maxwell Photography Photography Services for the €511.68 Convention on the Constitu- tion final plenary meeting 22nd & 23rd February 2014 DNP Service Taoiseach’s visit to Japan, €244.23 3-4 December 2013. Maxwell Photography Photography assignment for €519.06 the visit of the Spanish PM on the 6th March 2014 Maxwell Photography Photography assignment €396.06 for the visit of the German Prime Minister on the 7th March 2014 Maria Photography Taoiseach’s visit to Abu €2695.8 Dhabi & Dubai, January 2014. Dan Hallissey Photography Taoiseach’s visit to Boston, €506.77 16 March 2014. Marty Katz Photography Photography for Taoiseach €1740.64 Enda Kenny & delegation’s trip to Washington DC on 13 & 14 March 2014

159 Questions - Written Answers Company Detail Amount Maxwell Photography Official Photography at State €2841.3 Funeral of the late Albert Reynolds 23rd and 25th Aug 2014 at Mansion House and Donnybrook Church James Higgins Photography Photographs of the Taoise- €252.71 ach’s visit to New York on 17 March 2014. Dowlings Pharmacy Passport photos 04 Sep 2014 €6 Boots Chemist Photo prints for Taoiseach’s €2.10 office 13 July 2014 Getty Images International EU, All About Jobs cam- €207.87 paign, purchase of iStock photo subscription for 3 months, 7th Oct 2014 Maxwell Photography Photography for North €547.35 South Ministerial Council on 3rd Oct 2014, Dublin Castle. CreativeShot Photography United Irish Cultural Center €753.07 - San Francisco 4 June 2014. Mac Innes Photography Ltd EU - Photography of Min- €491.14 ister Ged Nash at 2 events in Carlow 26th November 2014 2015

Company Detail Amount Mac Innes Photography Ltd EU - 10 Low Resolution €124.85 images from Minister Ged Nash events in Carlow 26 November 2014 Getty Images International EU ‘All About Jobs cam- €207.87 paign’ purchase of monthly iStock photo subscription for January 2015 Department of Foreign Af- Photographs of the Taoise- €198.68 fairs ach Enda Kenny attending Youth Reception - Irish Con- sulate New York September 2014 Mr John Kingman Photography for Taoiseach’s €317.89 visit to New York, 22-24 September 2014. Getty Images International All About Jobs - purchase €1,966.77 of one year iStock subscription for stock photos for All About Jobs section of Mer- rion St, 25 Feb 2015

160 11 July 2017 Company Detail Amount Dowlings Pharmacy Dowlings Pharmacy - Pass- €6.00 port photos 26 Feb 2015 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Photography costs for the €160.00 visit of Mr. Manuel Valls Prime Minister of France to Government Buildings 24 April 2015 Mac Innes Photography Ltd Photography costs for the €181.50 visit of Mr. Manuel Valls Prime Minister of France to Government Buildings 24 April 2015 Marty Katz Photographer St. Patrick’s Day 2015. Tao- €2,459.34 iseach’s visit to Washington, DC, USA. 16-17 March 2015. Allison Shirref Photographer Taoiseach’s visit to Atlanta, €1,112.10 USA, 13 & 14 March 2015. Lensmen & Associates Minister J. Deenihan TD €553.50 photoshoot with Sonia O’Sullivan on 30 April 2015 at Government Buildings Conor McKeown Photogra- Photographer for US Am- €120.00 pher bassador’s visit to Castlebar - April 2015 Maxwell Photography Photography costs for Data €447.72 Protection Event on 2 July 2015 Maxwell Photography Photography Assignment €1,475.80 for State Funeral of Thomas Kent - 18 September 2015 Fotogioberti Studio Taoiseach’s photos with PM €488.00 Renzi, 10 July 2015. 2016

Company Detail Amount Maxwell Photography Supply of Jpeg Images €17.22 of Ceann Comhairle with Queen, taking during her visit to Ireland in 2011 - January 2016 Maxwell Photography Photography for Flag-Rais- €120.52 ing Ceremony, 1 January 2016 Ulster Bank Ireland Ltd Photos from National Li- €28 brary for Press Office

161 Questions - Written Answers Company Detail Amount Maxwell Photography Photography for Flag-Rais- €524 ing Ceremony, 1 January 2016 Getty Images International All About Jobs - purchase €1966.77 of one year iStock subscription for stock photos for All About Jobs section of Mer- rion St, from 18th February 2016 to 18th February 2017 M. McNally Photographer Taoiseach’s visit to London, €278.47 U.K. 9 November 2015. AM Photography 9 September 2015. Taoise- €250 ach’s visit to Paris, France. Maxwell Photography Photography for Com- €2520 memoration Ceremony and Parade and Kilmainham Gaol Wreath-Laying Cer- emony, Easter Sunday 27 March 2016 Maxwell Photography Photography for Commemo- €579.6 ration Ceremony and Pa- rade and Kilmainham Gaol Wreath-Laying Ceremony, Easter Sunday 27 March 2016 Irish Gallery of Photography Photograph presentation €4674 Ltd for State Reception Dublin Castle 27th March 2016 Lensmen & Assoc Photography at Interfaith €430.50 Ceremony and Unveiling of Remembrance Wall, Glasn- evin Cemetery, Sunday 3 April 2016 (1916 Centenary event) Maxwell Photography Photographs of new Cabinet €873.76 at first meeting in Cabinet room, Government Build- ings, 11 May 2016, and syn- dication to daily and Sunday newspapers and online media outlets British Irish Council Official Photo of the Brit- €782.04 ish Irish Council Summit Dublin 2015 MacInnes Photography Ltd Photography services for €1554.72 Somme Centenary Com- memoration Ceremony 9 July 2016

162 11 July 2017 Company Detail Amount MacInnes Photography Ltd Photography services for €1554.72 National Day of Commemo- rations, 10 July 2016 Maxwell Photography Photography for Visit of VP €3047.94 Biden, 21-26 June 2016 Marty Katz Photographer Taoiseach’s visit to Wash- €1405.36 ington DC, USA, 14-15 March 2016. St. Patrick’s Day Visit. Marty Katz Photography Taoiseach’s visit to Wash- €1703.42 ington DC. USA. 17-18 May 2016. Ireland 100 at Ken- nedy Centre. Lensmen & Assoc Event Photography for in- €553.5 augural meeting of Citizens Assembly on 15th October 2016 Provision Photographs Ltd Photography for Smart Cit- €170.25 ies Event - 9th December 2016 - Cork Maxwell Photography Photocall Package for meet- €854.85 ing of Citizens Assembly 26th & 27th Nov 2016 2017

Company Detail Amount FRANK FENNELL PHO- Photography services for €150.00 TOGRAPHY LTD visit of UK PM Theresa May Monday 30 January 2017 FRANK FENNELL PHO- Photography services for €34.50 TOGRAPHY LTD visit of UK PM Theresa May Monday 30 January 2017 FRANK FENNELL PHO- Photography services for €450.00 TOGRAPHY LTD visit of UK PM Theresa May Monday 30 January 2017 FRANK FENNELL PHO- Photography services for €60.75 TOGRAPHY LTD visit of UK PM Theresa May Monday 30 January 2017 DEPT OF FOREIGN AF- Department of Foreign Af- €357.00 FAIRS & TRADE fairs - Reimbursement of bills for the Irish Missions, 01-31 December 2016 Dowlings Pharmacy Passport photos 28 February €12.00 2017

163 Questions - Written Answers Company Detail Amount Dowlings Pharmacy Visa photos 27 April 2017 €12.00 ADVERTISING

2013

Company Detail Amount FCR Media Ltd Advertising in State Direc- €6191.82 tory Section of Phonebook for Year 2014. Brindley Advertising Ltd EU Presidency €51660 Brindley Advertising Ltd Public Consultation on Eco- €10276.45 nomic Regulation 2014

Company Detail Amount FCR Media Ltd Advertising in State Direc- €6191.82 tory Section of Phonebook for Year 2014/2015 2015

Company Detail Amount DAA (Dublin Airport Au- Home To Work advertising €24600 thority) Shared Services Mediavest Ireland Ltd Home To Work advertising €18200.06 Audrey Elliott Home To Work advertising €615 (Knock Airport) FCR Media Ltd Advertising in State Direc- €6191.82 tory Section of Phonebook for Year 2015/2016 Mediavest Ireland Ltd Data Protection “Data Fo- €3379.55 rum” Mediavest Ireland Irish language advertising €679.78 2016

Company Detail Amount Clear Channel Ireland Ltd Home To Work advertising – €6150 Shannon Airport DAA (Dublin Airport Au- Home To Work advertising €1722 thority) Shared Services Dawn Recruitment Ltd Home To Work advertising – €2516 leaflet distribution WC O’Brien Ltd Home To Work advertsing – €3314.2 Cork and Shannon airports Mediavest Ireland Ltd Citizens Assembly: Call €4746.81 for Submissions on Eighth Amendment

164 11 July 2017 Company Detail Amount FCR Media Ltd Advertising in State Direc- €5881.86 tory Section of Phonebook 2016/2017

2017

Company Detail Amount FCR MEDIA LTD Advertising in State Direc- €4,530.00 tory Section of Phonebook 2017/2018 FCR MEDIA LTD Advertising in State Direc- €1,041.90 tory Section of Phonebook 2017/2018 COMMUNICATIONS ADVICE/PUBLIC RELATIONS

2013

Company Detail Amount Glass Eye Productions EU Presidency video €801.31 WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

2013

Company Detail Amount Terminal Four Ltd Development of EU Presi- €4367.89 dency site 2014

Company Detail Amount pTools Development of Dept. Tao- €24354 iseach sites pTools Development of Allabout- €4059 jobs section on Merrion- street.ie Escher Group (IRL) Development of Convention €6150 on the Constitution site 2015

Company Detail Amount pTools Development of Dept. Tao- €13530 iseach sites 2016

Company Detail Amount pTools Development of Dept. Tao- €6765 iseach sites 2017

165 Questions - Written Answers Company Detail Amount Nil Nil Nil National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO)

2015 NESC (National Economic & Social Council)

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

Company Detail Amount Fusio NESC Website €13671.45

Brexit Staff

11/07/2017WRE0120077. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Taoiseach if his Department’s integrated division currently leading Ireland’s response to Brexit is to be moved to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and if so, the rationale for this decision. [32660/17]

11/07/2017WRE0130085. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if he has recently met his officials on Brexit; and the particular areas that they discussed. [32813/17]

11/07/2017WRE01400The Taoiseach: I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 85.

The International, EU and Northern Ireland Division of my Department, under a Second Secretary General who also acts as the Irish Sherpa in EU matters including Brexit, will remain in my Department.

The Division handles a range of responsibilities across International, EU and British and Northern Ireland relations in support of me, including in my role as a member of the European Council.

I remain in frequent contact with senior officials in my Department on the matter of Brexit.

Brexit is, of course, a priority for all Government Ministers and Departments, with the Min- ister and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade having a particular responsibility in this area. As you would expect, there is close co-operation on Brexit between my Department and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, including the Permanent Representation in Brussels and our Embassy Network.

Office of the Attorney General

11/07/2017WRE0150078. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the role his Department has in relation to the allocation and management of the budget for the Attorney General’s office; and if there is much interaction during the year regarding same. [32805/17]

11/07/2017WRE01600The Taoiseach: While I am the member of Government responsible for answering parliamentary questions on administrative matters connected with the Office of the Attorney General (and other Law Offices of the State), it should be noted that the Office of the Attorney General has its own Vote and has responsibility for the management of its own budget and governance issues.

Ministerial Advisers Data

166 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRE0170079. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the number of advisers he will be employing in his Department; and the roles and responsibilities they will have. [32807/17]

11/07/2017WRE01800The Taoiseach: Since my appointment as Taoiseach, I have recruited the following advisers:

- a Chief of Staff;

- a Spokesman and Communications Adviser; and

- 4 Special Advisers.

It should be noted that I have not, as yet, finalised the make-up of my team and that all of the above appointments are, of course, subject to Government approval.

Government Information Service

11/07/2017WRE0190080. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the number of non-civil servants employed in the Government Information Services; and the roles that they have. [32808/17]

11/07/2017WRE02000The Taoiseach: Two members of staff in the Government Information Service are non-established civil servants; namely, the Government Press Secretary and the Deputy Government Press Secretary. All other staff working in the Government Information Service are established civil servants.

Departmental Staff Data

11/07/2017WRE0210081. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the number of staff employed in his De- partment in 2014, 2015 and 2016, in tabular form. [32809/17]

11/07/2017WRE02200The Taoiseach: The number of full-time equivalent staff employed in my Department in 2014, 2015 and 2016 is as follows:

Year Full-time equivalent 2014(position on 31 December 2014) 185 2015(position on 31 December 2015) 199 2016(position on 31 December 2016) 188

Departmental Staff Data

11/07/2017WRE0230082. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the number of contract staff he has in his Department; and the roles that they have. [32810/17]

11/07/2017WRE02400The Taoiseach: There are currently 30 contract staff employed by my Department. This number includes recently recruited civil servants on probationary contracts and unestablished civil servants.

It should be noted that neither I, nor the Ministers of State assigned to my Department, have, as yet, finalised the make-up of our teams. All such support staff will be on contract (subject to Government approval where appropriate).

167 Questions - Written Answers Departmental Offices

11/07/2017WRE0250083. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach if refurbishment took place in his Depart- ment in the past five years. [32811/17]

11/07/2017WRE02600The Taoiseach: The building occupied by my Department is provided and managed by the Office of Public Works. Ongoing routine maintenance and necessary upgrading has taken place over the past five years consisting mainly of painting and furniture repairs. No major refurbishment projects have been undertaken in that time.

Northern Ireland

11/07/2017WRE0270084. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach when he last visited Northern Ireland. [32812/17]

11/07/2017WRE02800The Taoiseach: While I have not yet had the opportunity to visit Northern Ireland since becoming Taoiseach, I intend to visit on a suitable occasion in the near future.

I consider that it is very important for Ministers to actively engage on North/South issues, including by visiting Northern Ireland for appropriate events and engagements. Ordinarily this would include meeting their counterparts in the Northern Ireland Executive. In the absence of the normal operation of the North/South institutions due to the lack of agreement between the Northern Ireland parties on formation of an Executive, I believe that other forms of engagement by Ministers remain important.

Question No. 85 answered with Question No. 77.

Departmental Inquiries

11/07/2017WRE0300086. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Taoiseach the number of inquiries under the remit of his Department. [32814/17]

11/07/2017WRE03100The Taoiseach: The following inquiries/tribunals have been established under my Depart- ment:

Tribunal of Inquiry into payments to politicians and related matters (Moriarty).

The two Commissions of Investigation currently underway for which I am the specified Minister under the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004 are the IBRC Commission, Chaired by Mr Justice Brian Cregan, and the NAMA Commission, Chaired by Mr Justice John D Cooke.

Question No. 87 answered with Question No. 1.

Commencement of Legislation

11/07/2017WRE0330088. Deputy James Lawless asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Inno- vation the sections of the Constructions Contracts Act 2013 that still remain to be commenced; the timeframe for completion of the said sections to be commenced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32251/17]

11/07/2017WRE03400Minister of State at the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Pat 168 11 July 2017 Breen): The Construction Contracts Act, 2013 came into force in respect of applicable construction contracts entered into after 25 July 2016, in accordance with Statutory Instrument No. 165 of 2016 entitled ‘Construction Contracts Act, 2013 (Appointed Day) Order 2016’.

All sections of the Act have been commenced.

EU Directives

11/07/2017WRE0350089. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion if she has examined the decision by the European Parliament to vote in favour of a directive to require companies to require big multinationals to report tax and financial data separately in all countries in which they operate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32375/17]

11/07/2017WRE03600Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The European Commission adopted its Proposal for a Directive to amend the Accounting Directive as regards disclosure of income tax information by certain undertakings and branches in April of last year. Since then, both the European Parliament and the Council have each been considering that Proposal, as part of the normal co-decision legislative process.

At its plenary session on 4 July last, the European Parliament adopted a Report, which supports the objectives of the draft Directive and proposes several amendments, on a range of issues, to the original Commission Proposal. The effect of some of those amendments would be to require large multinational companies to break down the corporation tax paid in each country in which they have operations, and not just in EU countries and some non-EU jurisdictions as the original Proposal provided. That Report will form the basis of the Parliament’s position in the trilogue negotiations between it, the Council and the Commission.

For the moment, the Council is continuing its examination of the Commission’s Proposal and considering its own recommendations for amendments. As the Council has not adopted its own common position, trilogue negotiations have not yet been scheduled.

In the meantime, officials in the Department are examining the Parliament’s Report as part of preparing the Irish position for those trilogue negotiations.

IDA Site Visits

11/07/2017WRE0370090. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion the number of IDA visits to County Laois for each of the past three years; the number of visits to date in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33049/17]

11/07/2017WRE03800Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The Government is committed to regional development and my Department and its Agen- cies are working towards ambitious targets to ensure that employment and investment are as fairly distributed as possible across the country. In June 2015, my Department published a Midlands Regional Enterprise Strategy as part of the Action Plan for Jobs. Good progress is being made but I know that more remains to be done, especially in counties like Laois.

County Laois is marketed by IDA Ireland as part of the Midlands region, together with Counties Westmeath, Longford and Offaly. In total, there are 30 multinational companies based in the Midlands, employing 4,280 people. There are 115 people employed by those IDA Ireland client companies based in Laois itself.

169 Questions - Written Answers Site visits represent one tool through which the IDA has sought to encourage more investment in Laois. There were ten such visits to the County across 2015 and 2016, which ultimately led to the creation of 28 new IDA Ireland supported jobs. The following table sets out the details of these visits from 2013 to Q1 2017. The Agency continues to promote Laois as an investment location to overseas companies and I am hopeful that further jobs will be created there by IDA clients in the future.

Laois is also part of the Midlands Region for the purposes of the Regional Action Plan for Jobs. As part of this Action Plan the Laois Local Enterprise Office (LEO) is currently advancing three projects - which are in receipt of approximately €230,000 of funding through the LEO Competitive Fund - that will variously support the growth of micro-enterprises, innovation in small firms and job creation. These projects should help to collectively foster further enterprise and employment growth in the County.

Sites visits to Laois 2013 - Q1 2017

IDA Ireland 2013 2014 2015 2016 Q1 2017 site visits Laois 2 0 4 6 0

Jobs Data

11/07/2017WRE0390091. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation the number of jobs lost and created in the mid-west region as covered by Shannon Development in each of the years 2004 to 2016, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32073/17]

11/07/2017WRE04000Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): Regional Development is a key priority of mine and I am determined to help drive job creation all across Ireland, including the Mid West.

Last week I attended the launch of IDA Ireland’s 2017 mid-year results where the Agency reaffirmed its target of increasing investment in each region of Ireland by 30% to 40% by 2019. Good progress is being made towards achieving these targets and in 2016 over half of the jobs created by IDA Ireland supported companies were outside Dublin.

This progress is reflected in the Mid-West region where, over the past seven years particularly, the Agency’s hard work on the ground has yielded 62 investments for the region. Two very recent successes are Northern Trust’s expansion of its operation in Limerick adding approximately 400 new jobs and Element Six in Shannon announcing the creation of 100 additional jobs.

IDA Ireland provides employment statistics over a 10 year period and details on jobs created and lost in the Mid-West between 2007 and 2016 are outlined in the following table. If the Deputy requires additional data I can direct the Agency to provide it, but this will take some additional time to collate.

Em- 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 ployment Data No of 41 42 39 39 41 44 43 46 51 54 Compa- nies 170 11 July 2017

Em- 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 ployment Data Total 11,126 9,397 6,573 6,478 6,642 7,165 7,448 7,930 8,702 10,153 Jobs Gross 357 154 282 308 575 574 764 950 1,634 Gains Losses -2,086 -2,978 -377 -144 -52 -291 -282 -178 -183 Net -1,729 -2,824 -95 164 523 283 482 772 1,451 Change

Regional Development Funding

11/07/2017WRE0410092. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Inno- vation if funding will be provided for a centre (details supplied) in order to minimise the effect it may have on current and prospective tenants in Drogheda; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32108/17]

11/07/2017WRE04200Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The Regional Enterprise Development Fund was launched in May 2017. This €60 million competitive fund will support major new collaborative and innovative initiatives that can make a significant impact on enterprise development in the region/across regions or nationally to build the unique USP capabilities to grow the regions.

Under a competitive process, Enterprise Ireland is now seeking applications for funding under four streams with varying investment levels:

1. Major Change Projects - €2m up to €5m per project,

2. Regionally Significant Projects - €250,000 up to €2m per project,

3. Local & Community Enterprise Development Projects - €50,000 up to €250,000 per project,

4. Industry Clusters - €50,000 up to €250,000 per project.

The Applicant will be not-for-profit entities that have already, or propose to, set up a distinct legal entity that comprise national/regional, county and local stakeholders, with a purpose of benefiting the wider needs of the community and region/nation.

Applicants can be promoted by private or public organisations, which for example might include:

- Higher Education Institutes

- Semi-State Commercial bodies

- Local Enterprise Development Groups

- Local Authorities.

In addition, Industry Clusters must comprise of at least five companies.

The first call for applications closes on August 18th. All eligible projects are encouraged to apply. 171 Questions - Written Answers Departmental Funding

11/07/2017WRE0430093. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion the detail of grants available for a person who wants to buy a derelict business and refurbish same in order to provide a retail business in a town. [32112/17]

11/07/2017WRE04400Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): My Department does not have any role in providing grants for the purchase and refurbishment of derelict business premises.

IDA Sites

11/07/2017WRE0450094. Deputy John Brassil asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion if she will request IDA Ireland to carry out works at its site at Langford Downs, Killorglin, County Kerry to top trees which are overhanging and causing a hazard at the neighbouring housing estate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32169/17]

11/07/2017WRE04600Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The remedial works requested by the Deputy are an operational matter for IDA Ireland. I have directed that the matter be brought to the attention of the Agency who, I am informed, will deal with it directly.

Quality and Qualifications Ireland Administration

11/07/2017WRE0470095. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation the measures her Department has taken to address the issue of tax vetting procedures in relation to the issuing of training certificates for crane drivers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32176/17]

11/07/2017WRE04800Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): My colleague, the Minister for Education and Skills, has informed me that Solas is responsible for the issuing of Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) certificates to crane driver candidates that attain the required assessment standard. I am informed that there is no reason tax vetting procedures would form part of this process.

Departmental Correspondence

11/07/2017WRE0490096. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion her views on correspondence (details supplied); and her plans for the Hallmarking (Amend- ment) Bill 2016. [32313/17]

11/07/2017WRE05000Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): My Department is currently examining the proposals set out in the submission from the Irish Jewellers Association. These proposals were sent to my Department on 26 June 2017. In this context, my Department is currently consulting with other stakeholders in the jewellery sector on these proposals.

I would recall that such weight exemptions have not been a feature of Irish hallmarking legislation. Views on this issue have been traditionally divided with wholesalers being in favour of weight exemptions while other stakeholders, including the jewellery manufacturers and 172 11 July 2017 retailers, being against their introduction.

While I am willing to examine any proposals in a constructive manner, this must be on the understanding that they do not undermine the current system of hallmarking in Ireland or result in a reduction in the level of consumer protection that the current legislative framework provides.

Financial Services Regulation

11/07/2017WRE0510097. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the current regulatory framework for receivers appointed by banks; her plans to introduce changes in this area; the oversight in place with regard to the level of fees charged by receivers; the recourse an affected borrower has that is of the view the fees charged in respect of their assets are excessive and unjustifiable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32405/17]

11/07/2017WRE05200Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): Receivership is a remedy that derives from courts of equity. The relevant law in relation to receivership is largely made up of rules which the courts have developed by applying general contract law and equitable principles. Receivers are appointed under a relevant security e.g. a mortgage or a charge which contains the contractual terms in relation to their appointment and their powers under the instrument. Depending on the circumstances of the case, courts may also, on application from a secured creditor, exercise their discretionary powers to appoint a receiver. Receivers can also be appointed under the Land and Conveyancing Law Reform Act 2009 in the case of mortgages created after 1 December 2009, and the Conveyancing Act 1881 for mortgages created prior to that date.

Section 437 of the Companies Act 2014 confers statutory powers on receivers and is intended to alleviate many of the problems which may arise from poorly drafted debentures. However, section 437(4) makes clear that these powers are limited by any provision in the instrument under which the receiver was appointed, again underlying the essentially contractual nature of receivership.

A receiver has specific statutory duties under section 439 of the Companies Act 2014 which provides that:

(i) receivers must achieve the best price reasonably obtainable at the time of sale; and

(ii) the receiver must not sell by private contract a non-cash asset of a company to a person who is or who, within three years prior to the date of appointment of the receiver, has been, an officer of the company unless the Receiver has given 14 days’ notice of his or her intention to do so to all creditors of the company who are known to him or her or who have been intimated to him or her.

These statutory duties make it imperative that the receiver obtains expert legal and valuation advice in relation to the sale of property, consistent with the duty “to obtain the best price reasonably obtainable”. Breach of a receiver’s statutory duties may result in the receiver being held personally liable for any loss incurred.

Section 444 of the Companies Act 2014 allows a liquidator, a creditor or a member of a company to apply to the High Court for an order to fix the amount to be paid to a receiver, notwithstanding that his or her remuneration has been fixed by the instrument appointing the receiver. If the receiver has been paid previously in excess of the amount fixed by the court, the 173 Questions - Written Answers court order may extend to requiring him or her to account for the excess or such part of it that may be specified in the order.

The Companies Act 2014 applies to receivers generally but my Department has no role in relation to the regulatory framework for receivers appointed by banks which are entities regulated by the Central Bank.

Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement

11/07/2017WRE0530098. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion further to Parliamentary Question No. 6 of 29 June 2017, the source data that her answer was based on; the version of the CETA trade agreement that she was referencing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32433/17]

11/07/2017WRE0540099. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion further to Parliamentary Question No. 18 of 29 June 2017, the source data that her answer was based on; the version of the CETA trade agreement that she was referencing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32434/17]

11/07/2017WRE05500100. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 6 and 18 of 29 June 2017, the sectors and sub-sectors that Ireland and Germany have each included in their negative list and reservations in the CETA agreement; if she will provide the detail of reservations for existing measures and liberalisation commitments and reservations for future measures; the reservations which apply at a national level and which apply only at regional level with regard to both countries; the number of pieces of legislation which come under both countries’ reservation lists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32435/17]

11/07/2017WRE05600101. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 6 and 18 of 29 June 2017, the detail of the CETA trade agreement, that is, page number and section that specifies that the water supply sector here will not be subject to the terms of the agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32436/17]

11/07/2017WRE05700102. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Inno- vation further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 6 and 18 of 29 June 2017, if her understanding of Article 1.9(3) of the CETA trade agreement means that Ireland’s water sector will be subject to the terms of the agreement in view of the fact that Irish Water charges for water and this permits the commercial use of water sources (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32437/17]

11/07/2017WRE05800103. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 6 and 18 of 29 June 2017, if she will provide links to the economic research and data behind her positive characterisation of CETA and her claim of huge advantages it offers to Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32438/17]

11/07/2017WRE05900Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 to 103, inclusive, together.

On 14th January 2017, the final text of the EU-Canada Comprehensive and Economic Free Trade Agreement (CETA) (OJ L 11, 14.1.2017, p. 23–1079) was published in the Official Jour- nal of the European Union and is available at http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/? 174 11 July 2017 uri=uriserv:OJ.L_.2017.011.01.0023.01.ENG&toc=OJ:L:2017:011:TOC.

The detail requested by Deputy Wallace in relation to the reservations in the Agreement is available for -

Annex I Reservations for existing measures and liberalisation - pages 592 - 866;

- EU Party Reservations applicable in the European Union (applicable in all Member States of the EU unless otherwise indicated) - pages 722 – 728;

- Annex I Reservations applicable in Germany - pages 760 – 771;

- Annex I Reservations applicable in Ireland - pages 804 – 806.

Annex II Reservations for future measures – pages 867 – 1027;

- EU Party Reservations applicable in the European Union (applicable in all Member States of the EU unless otherwise indicated) - pages 898 –936;

- EU Reservation on the collection, purification and distribution of water – pages 922 – 923;

- Annex I Reservations applicable in Germany - pages 978 – 983;

- Annex I Reservations applicable in Ireland - pages 988 – 989.

In relation to water supply, like all EU trade agreements, CETA does not cover public services. CETA will not force governments to privatise or deregulate public services like the water supply and Ireland will be able to keep public monopolies for particular services. The Agree- ment does not oblige Ireland to permit the commercial use of water if it does not wish to do so. It fully preserves Ireland’s sovereign right to decide how to use and protect water sources. Furthermore, the Agreement will not prevent the reversal of a decision to allow the commercial use of water.

Regarding the advantages CETA offers, all the details are in the text of the Agreement including the elimination of tariffs on almost all key exports, easing regulatory barriers and ensuring more transparent rules for market access. For example, the elimination of 26.5% tariffs on beef and up to 18% on clothing will make our exports more competitive. Furthermore, the opening of public procurement markets in Canada is significant and will bring new opportunities for Irish exporters across a range of sectors.

11/07/2017WRF00500Trade Agreements

11/07/2017WRF00600104. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation if there are sanitary and phytosanitary measures here that her Department estimates could be seen as being used for the purpose of trade protection and potentially open to challenge under the terms of CETA (details supplied); if she will provide a list of such SPS measures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32439/17]

11/07/2017WRF00700Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): There are no sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures that could be opened to challenge under the terms of the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). CETA promotes co-operation between Canada and the EU on SPS issues.

Chapter 5 on SPS of CETA preserves the rights and obligations of the EU and of Canada under the Agreement on the Application of SPS Measures, contained in Annex 1A to the WTO 175 Questions - Written Answers Agreement.

It maintains the EU and Canada’s right to take the SPS measures necessary to protect against risks to food safety, animal or plant life or health and ensures that such measures by either side do not create unjustified barriers to trade, but rather facilitate trade.

The Chapter incorporates the existing 1998 Canada-EU Veterinary Agreement which currently applies to the trade in animal and animal products. It builds on the provisions of the 1998 Agreement to establish a framework for co-operation on the full scope of SPS measures - food safety, animal health, and plant health. In this regard, the Chapter contains detailed provisions with respect to regionalisation, equivalence, trade conditions, audit and verification, export certification, import checks and fees, notification and information exchange, emergency SPS measures, and the establishment of a Joint Management Committee for Sanitary and Phytos- anitary Measures.

The Agreement will not amend the EU or Canada’s SPS rules and all products shall fully comply with the applicable SPS standards of the importing Party.

Departmental Agencies Staff Data

11/07/2017WRF00900105. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Inno- vation the number of staff recruited since the Brexit referendum in June 2016 in all individual State agencies and bodies under her aegis including the IDA, Enterprise Ireland, LEOs, Inter- TradeIreland and the HSA; the number of staff in each such agency and body recruited since 1 January 2017, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32440/17]

11/07/2017WRF01000Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): In the time available, it has not been possible to gather all the information requested. When the totality of the information has been collated I will convey the information to Deputy Collins.

11/07/2017WRF01100International Conventions

11/07/2017WRF01200106. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation the engagement by her Department with the International Labour Organisation in relation to the Convention 182, the Convention concerning the Prohibition and Immediate Ac- tion for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour; the position of Ireland in relation to same; if legislation or regulation is required here arising from the convention; her views on ongoing abuses in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32455/17]

11/07/2017WRF01300Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): Ireland ratified ILO Convention 182 concerning the Prohibition and Immediate Action for the Elimination of the Worst Forms of Child Labour on 20 December 1999. Prior to ratification of the convention it was established that national legislation is in line with the provisions of the convention.

Ireland is required to submit regular reports to the ILO on implementation of ratified conventions. Ireland’s most recent report to the ILO on Convention 182 was submitted in 2016 and covered the period up to 31 October 2015.

The observations of the ILO Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) on the 2016 report were published at the 106th Session of the 176 11 July 2017 International Labour Conference which took place last month. The Committee noted with satisfaction that the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) (Amendment) Act of 2013 expands the definition of “exploitation” to include forcing a person, (including a child under the age of 18 years) to engage in an activity that constitutes an offence. The Committee also noted the detailed information provided by the Government regarding the trafficking of persons and requested the Government, in its next report, to provide information on convictions and penalties applied in cases related to the trafficking of children.

Ireland’s next report to the ILO on Convention 182 is due in 2018. While my Department has the co-ordination role with regard to the preparation of reports to the ILO, it is the Anti- Human Trafficking Unit in the Department of Justice and Equality which will be responsible for the collation and provision of the information requested on convictions and penalties.

11/07/2017WRF01400Insurance Industry Regulation

11/07/2017WRF01500107. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion if she has spoken to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, CCPC, since news emerged that insurance companies, brokers and representative bodies for the industry were raided yesterday by officers from the CCPC and the European Competition Directorate as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged price fixing; her plans to ensure there is a robust regulatory framework in place in this area; and the position regarding meeting actions under the cost of insurance working group report in circumstances for which her Department has specific responsibility. [32529/17]

11/07/2017WRF01600Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): Under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the EU Commission has exclusive competence for competition law, including conducting investigations into alleged infringements of Article 101 and 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU. As the investigation referred to by the Deputy is an EU-led live investigation, it is not appropriate for me as Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation to comment on this matter. Similarly, 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 in the performance of its functions. I, as Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, have no direct function in such matters.

The issue of regulation of the insurance industry is primarily a matter for the Minister for Finance while policy responsibility for motor insurance lies with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.

Officials from my Department have been an integral part of the Cost of Insurance Working Group since its establishment. The first phase of the Group’s work involved an examination of the Motor Insurance sector. Following approval from Government, a Report was published on the Cost of Motor Insurance on 10 January 2017 which contains 33 recommendations. My Department has specific responsibility for 5 of these recommendations with 10 action points which are all on target with the required timelines.

4 of the action points were due for completion before end-Q2 2017. The first of these was to establish a Personal Injuries Commission (PIC). The purpose of the PIC is to investigate and make recommendations on processes in other jurisdictions which could enhance the claims process in Ireland. The terms of reference include the benchmarking of international awards for personal injury cases, analysing and reporting on international compensation levels and 177 Questions - Written Answers compensation mechanisms. The PIC was established in January 2017 and is being chaired by former President of the High Court, Mr. Justice Nicholas Kearns. The PIC is due to issue an interim report by the end of 2017 and is on target to achieve this. The other 3 actions for completion by end-Q2 2017 have been addressed by the publication of the General Scheme of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (Amendment) Bill. The General Scheme was approved by Government on June 27th and was published on my Department’s website on June 30th. The General Scheme has been sent to the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel for drafting and has also been sent to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation for pre-legislative scrutiny.

11/07/2017WRF01700Living Wage Expenditure

11/07/2017WRF01800108. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innova- tion the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32565/17]

11/07/2017WRF01900Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): Remuneration of all the staff of the Department is as sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for various individual grades in line with Government policy.

Within the time available it has not been possible to calculate an exact figure requested by the Deputy, however, I can advise that the annual additional salary cost to the Department of introducing a minimum hourly rate of €11.70 per hour is estimated to be in the region of €225,000 per annum based on current figures for 73 staff employed at Services Attendant, Services Of- ficer, Clerical Officer and Temporary Clerical Officer grades. This figure reflects recent recruitment of staff at the starting point on the relevant incremental scale for their grades. However, as the maximum point on the incremental scales for these grades (Services Attendant, Services Officer, Clerical Officer and Temporary Clerical Officer) is above the hourly rate of €11.70, over time, and based on satisfactory performance, each staff member in these grades would proceed to earn more than the figure of €11.70 per hour.

I have asked all agencies under the aegis of my Department to advise me of the position in so far as it relates to their agency and will communicate this information to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Science Foundation Ireland Expenditure

11/07/2017WRF02100109. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the value of payments made by Science Foundation Ireland in each of the years 2006 to 2015. [32572/17]

11/07/2017WRF02200Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The value of all payments made by Science Foundation Ireland (including capital grants for research and other operational payments) in each of the years 2006 to 2015 is detailed in the following table.

Payments (including grants and operational) Year €’000 2006 148,644 2007 164,791

178 11 July 2017 Payments (including grants and operational) Year €’000 2008 169,815 2009 182,496 2010 158,388 2011 166,638 2012 171,658 2013 161,492 2014 162,369 2015 170,817

11/07/2017WRF02300Science Foundation Ireland Expenditure

11/07/2017WRF02400110. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the payments made for Science Foundation Ireland by beneficiary institutions in each of the years 2006 to 2015. [32574/17]

11/07/2017WRF02500Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The Deputy has clarified that the question relates to payments made by Science Founda- tion Ireland to beneficiary institutions in each of the years 2006 to 2015. The information is detailed in the following table.

Total Grant Payments by Year Year Grant Payments 2006 141,512,015 2007 156,622,123 2008 160,138,353 2009 173,550,166 2010 150,134,655 2011 154,029,424 2012 156,927,005 2013 152,310,510 2014 153,544,411 2015 162,378,154

11/07/2017WRF02600Science Foundation Ireland Expenditure

11/07/2017WRF02700111. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the value of payments made to projects by Science Foundation Ireland in the overall area of health care in each of the years 2006 to 2015. [32575/17]

11/07/2017WRF02800Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The value of the payments made to projects by Science Foundation Ireland in the overall area of healthcare in each of the years 2006 to 2015 is detailed in the following table.

Please note the following caveats:

1. SFI brought in the implementation of award categorisation in 2009. Therefore, there may be awards prior to that time that could have been aligned to “Healthcare” but as the processes

179 Questions - Written Answers were not in place within the agency at that time and the awards would not have been active when categorisation was implemented we are unable to include those awards.

2. A number of Research Centres are included in these figures. It is important to note that components of the total awards funded to these Centres are relevant. These Centres are large- scale and multi-institutional. Although components are relevant to Healthcare the full Centre benefits from the Centre-wide infrastructure.

3. Please note, the term “Healthcare” is very broad. The awards represented below are funded across a broad spectrum of research. Search terms used to draw this data include: Biomedicine, Biochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Human Disease and Pathology, Vaccines, Microbiology, Chemistry, Materials Science, Genetics and Genomics, Neuroscience, Engineer- ing, plus many others.

Year € 2006 54,309,646 2007 56,979,197 2008 62,640,537 2009 79,280,204 2010 67,608,331 2011 69,588,244 2012 67,513,444 2013 64,474,849 2014 61,952,010 2015 48,517,332 Grand Total 632,863,795

Departmental Contracts

11/07/2017WRF03000112. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding the decision to end her Department’s contract with a group (details supplied); the number of jobs created by the group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32637/17]

11/07/2017WRF03100Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): My Department was not a party to the contract in respect of the Succeed-in-Ireland initiative. The contract underpinning the initiative was between the IDA and the company contracted to operate it, Connect Ireland.

The Board of the IDA decided, in November 2016, not to retender for the initiative at that time. A further extension of the original contract was also not possible as this would have constituted a breach of public procurement law.

No decision has, however, been taken with regard to the ultimate future of the Succeed-in- Ireland initiative. This will await the outcome of a comprehensive review of the programme and its contribution to employment generation in Ireland that will be commissioned by my Department. I expect the review to begin after the final data in relation to the full costs of the initiative becomes available.

At present, the scheme has delivered a figure of 580 jobs that have been verified and delivered on the ground.

180 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRF03200Departmental Agencies Staff Data

11/07/2017WRF03300113. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of staff in IDA Ireland who are employed in specifically addressing the consequences of Brexit; and the vacancies that remain unfilled by IDA Ireland with respect to Brexit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32638/17]

11/07/2017WRF03400Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): IDA Ireland previously received official sanction from my Department to recruit 10 additional Brexit staff members. Four such employees have since been appointed to date and the recruitment process for the remaining six is ongoing. IDA Ireland has undertaken a rigorous recruitment process to ensure that the best candidates are identified for all these roles and the Agency will make the remaining appointments as soon as it can.

I should also mention that my Department has recently received sanction from the Depart- ment of Public Expenditure and Reform for the retention within the IDA, on a permanent basis, of 35 previously fixed-term positions that were created in 2014. The regularisation of these roles in the Agency will ensure the IDA has the capacity to continue meeting targets set out in its current Strategy as well as addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with Brexit.

11/07/2017WRF03500Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRF03600114. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her De- partment for each of the past five years 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. [32654/17]

11/07/2017WRF03700Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The providers of the services procured by my Department and its Offices over the period 2013 to 21 June 2017, as requested by the Deputy, are set out in the following 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 Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices from 2013 to 21 June, 2017

Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied 2013 Fennell Photography Launch of Action 264 Plan for Jobs Q4 Results

181 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Fennell Photography Launch of Action 318 Plan for Jobs 2013 Fennell Photography Meeting with Chi- 308 nese Ambassador Fennell Photography Launch of New 264 Work Permit Legis- lation Fennell Photography Launch of Manufac- 342 turing Report Fennell Photography Unveiling of new 326 Local Enterprise Office, Swords and announcement of details of improved new service for micro and small enterprises Fennell Photography Announcement of 369 membership of the Entrepreneurship Forum Fennell Photography Launch of Action 273 Plan for Jobs Q2 Results Fennell Photography Launch of Copyright 251 Review Report Fennell Photography Appointment of 232 Chairman of US- Ireland Partnership Fennell Photography IDA Announcement 270 Fennell Photography Conference for EU 290 High Level Group for Innovation Maxwell Photogra- Informal meeting of 579 phy EU High Level Em- ployment Committee in Dublin Castle Tommy Clancy Pho- Group Photograph of 369 tography Labour Court Mem- bers

2014 Fennell Photography Launch of Entre- 291 peneurship Forum report Fennell Photography Taking Care of Busi- 291 ness 2014 182 11 July 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Fennell Photography Action Plan for Jobs 321 2014 Launch Fennell Photography Launch of National 137 Corporate Social Responsibilty Plan Fennell Photography Publication of 229 OECD report on the Action Plan for Jobs Fennell Photography Launch of young 397 entrepreneur competition Fennell Photography Transatlantic Trade 457 and Investment Part- nership Conference Fennell Photography Domestic Workers 321 Group Fennell Photography EU SME Week 203 Fennell Photography Launch of the Hori- 460 zon 2020 Strategic Research Proposals Group Tom Clancy Photog- Retirement of labour 369 raphy Court member Karl McDonagh Signing of MOU 57 between NERA and the HSA UCD Senior Management 400 Forum Fennell Photography Taking Care of Busi- 275 ness Launch Mac Innes Photog- CD Copy of Taking 203 raphy Care of Business Fennell Photography Preparation of stock 123 photo image for new Registrar of Compa- nies for inclusion in CRO publications

2015 Fennell Photography Launch of Action 312 Plan for Jobs 2015 Fennell Photography Launch of Action 489 Plan for Jobs Re- gional Fennell Photography Launch of EGFSN 291 Report

183 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Fennell Photography EI Trade Mission 138 & St Patrick’s day schedules Maxwell Photogra- Launch of APJ.ie 431 phy website Maxwell Photogra- Launch of Low Pay 448 phy Commission Fennell Photography Launch of Transat- 336 lantic Trade and In- vestment Partnership Impact in Ireland study Maxwell Photogra- Launch of Prompt 344 phy Payments Code of Conduct Fennell Photography Photocall with Dr. 291 Francis Gurry, Direc- tor General of the World Intellectual Property Organisa- tion Fennell Photography Launch of Start UP 306 Refunds for Entre- preneurs (SURE) Fennell Photography Launch of CSR Hub 352 Website Fennell Photography Launch of Manufac- 137 turing Brochure Maxwell Photogra- Living Wage Forum 413 phy Fennell Photography Launch of Enterprise 381 2025 Strategy Fennell Photography Launch of EGFSN 336 Report on Skills in the Hospitality Sec- tor Fennell Photography Photographer for 99 CSR Website Launch Fennell Photography Distribution of Pho- 261 tos of CSR Website Launch Fennell Photography Launch of Work- 291 place Relations Commission Maxwell Photogra- Launch of LPC Rec- 482 phy ommendations on the NMW – 21/7/15 184 11 July 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Fennell Photography Launch of Manufac- 15 (cost of additional turing Brochure photo)

2016 Fennell Photography Photocall for in- 291 crease to the Nation- al Minimum Wage Fennell Photography Launch of APJ 2016 586 Fennell Photography Launch of Work- 137 place Relations Commission Strat- egy Statement Fennell Photography Visit of Johann 565 Dietrich Woerner DG European Space Agency Fennell Photography Headshot of Oonagh 183 Buckley new DG Workplace Relations Commission Fennell Photography Photocall EGFSN 321 report on Biopharma Industry Fennell Photography Photocall with NCBI 414 Fennell Photography Visit of Jean Pierre 122 Bourguignon Presi- dent of The Euro- pean Research Council (ERC) Fennell Photography Opening of new of- 291 fices for Workplace Relations Commis- sion and Labour Court Tommy Clancy Pho- Photographic Ser- 231 tography vices for outgoing Director General, WRC event Tommy Clancy Pho- Photographic Ser- 231 tography vices for outgoing Chairman of the Labour Court event Fennell Photography Stock photo Chair- 77 man Labour Court Tommy Clancy Pho- Stock photo Labour 681 tography Court Members

185 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Fennell Photography Photographic ser- 291 vices -CSR online Service

2017 Fennell Photography Photographic servic- 549 es – launch of APJ 2017 Fennell Photography Photographic servic- 291 es -launch of Prompt Payments Code/ Portal Fennell Photography Stock shots Minister 46 Breen Fennell Photography Photographic ser- 275 vices WRC Annual Report Launch Fennell Photography Photographic ser- 275 vices EAT 50th An- niversary Fennell Photography Brexit SME Score- 321 card Maxwell Photogra- Photography ser- 396 phy vices Future of Work Conference Dublin Castle +Communications Advice, Public Relations and Media Interview Preparation Costs Incurred by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices from 2013 to 21 June, 2017

Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied 2013 Barberry Limited To provide NERA 3,183 trading as Keating with Communica- & Associates, 19 tions Services (in- Fitzwilliam Place, cluding PR; Media Dublin 2. Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports & brochures and assisting with website content).

186 11 July 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied 2013 MRPA Kinman To provide the De- 76,480 Communica- partment with Press tions trading as and Media Relations MKC Communi- Services for the Irish cations Limited, Presidency of the The Archway,4A EU.(This was a once Lower Pembroke off exercise/expen- Street,Dublin 2. diture due to Presi- dency events.)

2014 Barberry Ltd T/A To provide NERA 3,136 Keating & Associ- with Communica- ates19 Fitzwilliam tions Services (in- PlaceDublin 2 cluding PR; Media Monitoring; advising on the design, content and production of reports & brochures). 2014 Jays PrintingUnit To provide roll-up 268.14 7Abbey Business banners for Internal ParkGrange Drive- Market Unit to use at Baldoyle Industrial events promoting the EstateDublin 13 Services Directive 2014 European Institute of Attendance of one 395 Communications staff member at Certificate in So- cial Media Training course 2014 BMF Business Ser- Attendance of two 480 vices staff members at Social Media Con- ference

2015 Atomic Advertis- To provide brand 1,537 ing Ltd15A Bishop development work StreetDublin 8 for the launch of the Low Pay Commis- sion 2015 Jays PrintingUnit To provide roll- 379 7Abbey Business up banners for the ParkGrange Drive- launch of the Low Baldoyle Industrial Pay Commission EstateDublin 13 2015 Jays Printing7 Abbey To provide a rigid 74 Business ParkBal- sign for the launch of doyleDublin 13 the CSR Hub website. 187 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied 2015 Atomic Advertis- To provide the 284,524 ing Ltd15A Bishop Department with a StreetDublin 8 one year advertising campaign, radio and digital, to raise awareness of a range of Government provided enterprise supports 2015 Atomic Advertis- To create a dual 290 ing Ltd15A Bishop language logo for the StreetDublin 8 Low Pay Commis- sion 2015 Barberry Ltd T/A To provide NERA 6,827 Keating & Associ- (and from 1st Oc- ates19 Fitzwilliam tober 2015, the PlaceDublin 2 Workplace Relations Commission) with Communications Services (including PR; Media Monitor- ing; advising on the design, content and production of reports & brochures). 2015 IPA Attendance at one- 405 day seminar ‘Social Media for Public Sector Organisa- tions’ 2015 BMF Business Ser- Attendance of four 1,079 vices staff members at one-day Social Me- dia conference

2016 Barberry Ltd T/A To provide the 4,981.50 Keating & Associ- Workplace Rela- ates19 Fitzwilliam tions Commission PlaceDublin 2 with Communication Services (including PR; Media Monitor- ing advising on the design, content and production of reports and brochures.

188 11 July 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied 2016 Fuzion Communica- Provision of Com- 6,863.40 tions munications services to the Workplace Relations Commis- sion 2016 Atomic Advertis- To provide the 20,568 ing Ltd 15A Bishop Department with a Street Dublin 8 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 De- 36,232 partment with a six month public campaign to raise awareness of the Prompt Payment Code 2016 Public Relations Attendance of two 3,780 Institute of Ireland staff members at four day training course ‘Certificate for Civil Service Press Of- ficers’ 2016 BMF Business Ser- Attendance of 4 1,080 vices staff members at Social Media Con- ference 2016 Law Society Social media eS- 195 eminars for one staff member

2017 Strategem b.t.l. Ltd. To provide the De- 25,155 partment with a six month public campaign to raise awareness of the Prompt Payment Code(This amount relates to work carried out in 2016) Advertising Costs Incurred by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and its Offices from 2013 to 21 June 2017 189 Questions - Written Answers Year Advertisement Type Company/Organi- Total Paid to Com- sation Engaged to pany/ Organisation Provide Advertising Service 2013 Newspaper Mediavest 29,433 Notice in Govern- Iris Oifigiúil 4,371 ment Publication Magazines Business Plus 1,107 Magazines FS Communications 1,476

2014 Newspaper Mediavest 52,673 Notice in Govern- Iris Oifigiúil 2,216 ment Publication Magazines Nine Rivers Media 1,285 Ltd

2015 Newspaper Mediavest 55,842 Notice in Govern- Iris Oifigiúil 3,607 ment Publication Magazines Nine Rivers Media 1,223 Magazines Ashville Media 7,865 Group Magazines Mediavest 8,734 On line advertising Mediavest 64,723 Radio advertising Mediavest 67,860

2016 Newspaper Mediavest 83,974 Notice in Govern- Iris Oifigiúil 3,481 ment Publication TFS Media Agency WRC Magazine 677 T/A 256 Media- Advert Second Floor, The Mill,Greenmount Avenue, Dublin 12 Mediavest Ireland WRC re-location 1,638 Ltd16 Sir John Rog- notice in Irish Times ersons Quay, Dublin 2 Iris Oifigiul52 St. Iris advert 82 Stephens GreenDub- lin 2 Ashfield Media Chambers Ad 1,845 Group Ltd Chartered Accoun- CPA Ad 2,435 tants Ireland Nine Rivers Media CPA Ad 1,316 Ltd

190 11 July 2017 Year Advertisement Type Company/Organi- Total Paid to Com- sation Engaged to pany/ Organisation Provide Advertising Service Media Vest Limited Advertisements 21,681 -Mandatory-E-Filing Media Vest Limited Advertisements 9,717 -Mandatory-E-Filing The Phoenix Advertisement 3,075 Ashfield Media Advertisement 6,144 Group Ltd

2017 Newspaper Media Vest 19,192 Notice in Govern- Iris Oifigiuil 5,108 ment Publication Notice in Govern- Iris Oifigiul 31 ment Publication Mediavest,16 Sir Advertising for Joint 6,776 John Rogerson’s Labour Committee Quay,Dublin 2 Mediavest Ltd,16 Advertisement for 5,944 St John Rogerson’s submissions on the Quay, Dublin 2 National Minimum Wage and Allow- ances provided for Board & Lodgings Media Vest Limited Advertisements-All 6,144 Acc Plus/Acc Irl Media Vest Limited Advertisements - Ac- 4,059 countancy Ire Media Vest Limited Efiling Radio 26,450 Media Vest Limited Efiling Radio 28,799 The Phoenix Advertisement 2,768 Media Vest Limited Advertising 4,059 Media Vest Limited Advertising New 4,899 Media Vest Limited Advertising - Web 2,246 Website Development Costs incurred by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and In- novation and its Offices from 2013 to 21 June 2017

Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied 2013 Stratathree Limit- Enterprise.gov.ie 31,246.92 edUnit 10, Westland second stage devel- Sq, Pearse St, Dublin opment 2. Bizmaps Ltd,4 Inns Geo Directory for 7,380.00 Court,Wine tavern address validation Street.

191 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Digi Cert, Inc Code Signing 512.61 Inventise Solutions ODCE Website re- 10,279.73 Ltd,Prince of Wales design and develop- Terrace,Quinnsboro ment Road,Bray. System Dynamics Webhosting for La- 17,589.00 Limited, Whitaker bour Court Port, Sir John Roger- sons Quay, Dublin 2 Baker Consultants, Renewal of .com 295.20 12 Hume Street, domain for Labour Dublin 2. Court Servcentric, Unit Load Balancer 7,630.92 9 Blanchardstown Management URL Corporate Business Monitoring Server Park, Dublin. Maintenance for Labour Court More Fresh Thought Development of 24,962.86 t/a Ebow Workplace Relations website Terminal Four Solu- Development of 832.30 tions Ltd. interim Workplace Relations website Parallel Internet Ltd Development of 362.85 workplace relations website FUSIO Ltd, 26 Website hosting, 1,415.67 Great Strand Street, support & mainte- Dublin, D01 R3P6, nance Ireland

2014 Parallel Internet (T/S Forfás websites mi- 12,915.00 P Tools Software), gration Content House, 46 Stephens Place, Dublin 2 Parallel Internet (T/S Forfás microsite 4,354.20 P Tools Software), development Content House, 46 Stephens Place, Dublin 2 Parallel Internet (T/S Department website 29,058.75 P Tools Software), development Content House, 46 Stephens Place, Dublin 2

192 11 July 2017 Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Parallel Internet (T/S APJ Microsite De- 968.62 P Tools Software), velopment Content House, 46 Stephens Place, Dublin 2 Parallel Internet (T/S Employment Permits 1,937.25 P Tools Software), Form Content House, 46 Stephens Place, Dublin 2 Parallel Internet (T/S Patents Office web- 5,811.75 P Tools Software), site development Content House, 46 Stephens Place, Dublin 2 Stratathree Limite- Enterprise.gov.ie 55,324.18 dUnit 10, Westland second stage devel- Sq, Pearse St Dublin opment 2 Stratathree Limite- Action planjobs.ie €12,841.20 dUnit 10, Westland design Sq, Pearse St Dublin 2 Bizmaps Ltd,4 Inns Auto Address Web 7,380.00 Court,Wine tavern Service Annual Street Licence Inventise Solutions CRO Website Sup- 1,476.00 Ltd,Prince of Wales port Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Inventise Solutions ODCE Website 1,125.45 Ltd,Prince of Wales development Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Baker Consultants, Renewal of .com 295.20 12 Hume Street domain for Labour Dublin 2 Court Parallel Internet Ltd Development of 3,807.88 Workplace Relations website FUSIO Ltd, 26 Website hosting, 3,141.97 Great Strand Street, support & mainte- Dublin, D01 R3P6, nance for WRC Ireland

2015 Stratathree Ltd. APJ.ie template 1,783.50

193 Questions - Written Answers Year Name and Address Details of Service Cost€ of Service Provider Supplied Stratathree Ltd.Unit New DJEI website 21,402.00 10, Westland Sq, content input Pearse St Dublin2 Bizmaps Ltd,4 Inns Auto Address Web 7,380.00 Court,Wine tavern Service Annual Street License Inventise Solutions CRO website main- 1,107.00 Ltd,Prince of Wales tenance Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Inventise Solutions CRO website main- 1,476.00 Ltd,Prince of Wales tenance Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Inventise Solutions ODCE Website de- 2,921.25 Ltd,Prince of Wales velopment Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Parallel Internet Ltd Development of 1,719.54 Workplace Relations website FUSIO Ltd, 26 Website hosting, 2,982.75 Great Strand Street, support & mainte- Dublin, D01 R3P6, nance for WRC Ireland

2016 Parallel Internet (T/S Professional services 4,391.10 P Tools Software), days for Regional Content House, 46 APJ website Stephens Place, Dublin 2 Bizmaps Ltd,4 Inns Auto Address Web 2,269.35 Court,Wine tavern Service Licence for Street 3 months Bizmaps Ltd,4 Inns Auto Address 2.0 an- 19,747.65 Court,Wine tavern nual fee Street Inventise Solutions CRO website sup- 1,572.86 Ltd,Prince of Wales port Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Inventise Solutions CRO website server 2,029.50 Ltd,Prince of Wales move Terrace,Quinnsboro Road,Bray Inventise Solutions Ltd,

194 11 July 2017 Departmental Consultations

11/07/2017WRF03900115. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the status of the public consultation on the resale of tickets for entertainment and sporting events. [32721/17]

11/07/2017WRF04000Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): The responses to the public consultation process (which was launched on 20 January 2017 with a deadline of 31 March for submissions) were published on my Department’s website on 9 May 2017. These responses contain a considerable amount of interesting and informative material about the organisation of major entertainment and sporting events and the operation of the primary and secondary markets for such events. They cover a range of different views on the matters at issue and put forward a range of different, and in some cases conflicting solutions, as to what might be done to help ensure that ticket markets would work better for music and sports fans in the future.

My Department has examined these responses and is currently following this up with a detailed examination of legislative frameworks in other jurisdictions with a view to informing any decision on the policy measures that might be adopted to address this issue.

11/07/2017WRG00200Job Creation

11/07/2017WRG00300116. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the estimated timeframe and completion date for the review of the Succeed in Ire- land initiative. [32722/17]

11/07/2017WRG00400Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): As was announced previously, my Department will be commissioning an independent review of the Succeed-in-Ireland programme. That review, which will be carried out after details of the initiative’s full and final costs are available, will equip us with a thorough understanding of the programme’s results and its contribution to employment generation in the State.

The terms of reference for the review will be finalised shortly. My Department is completing the examination of all the responses to the public consultation, a process which will help to shape the final text.

11/07/2017WRG00500Employment Rights

11/07/2017WRG00600117. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Inno- vation the measures her Department is putting in place to stop the practice of agencies operating in the construction sector using bogus self employment. [32778/17]

11/07/2017WRG00700Tánaiste and Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation (Deputy Frances Fitzger- ald): Apart from significant losses to the Exchequer that can arise from cases of so-called bogus self-employment, the practice has serious implications from an employment rights perspective. In this respect, it is important that individuals are correctly designated regarding their employment status so that those who ought to be designated as employees are not deprived of their employment rights. This is particularly the case for vulnerable workers who may not feel in a position to object to certain arrangements.

Ireland has a well-resourced labour inspectorate, which forms part of the Workplace Rela- 195 Questions - Written Answers tions Commission (WRC) and there are existing mechanisms in place to determine the employment status of individuals or groups.

WRC Inspections are undertaken on the basis of risk analysis which identifies certain sectors, as a result of complaints received and on a routine basis. Where the WRC inspection service discover or issues are raised in relation to bogus self-employment or bogus sub-con- tracting, they are forwarded to the Revenue Commissioners and/or the Department of Social Protection (Scope Section) for investigation either solely by the recipient, or jointly with the Workplace Relations Commission.

In most cases it will be clear whether an individual is employed or self-employed. Where there is doubt in relation to the employment status of an individual the relevant Departments and Agencies will have regard to the Code of Practice for Determining Employment or Self- Employment Status of Individuals. This Code was drawn up and agreed in 2007 by the relevant Government Departments with ICTU and IBEC.

Where an individual believes they are being deprived of employment rights applicable to employees they may refer a complaint to the WRC where the matter can be dealt with by way of mediation or adjudication leading to a decision that is enforceable through the District Court. WRC Inspectors can also be asked to investigate certain breaches. Complaints can be made on a single complaint form available at the WRC’s website www.workplacerelations.ie.

The WRC’s Customer Service Section, which provides information to both employers and employees in relation to employment and industrial relations rights and obligations, can be contacted at Lo-call: 1890 80 80 90 or 059-9178990.

11/07/2017WRG00800Foreign Direct Investment

11/07/2017WRG00900118. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 32 of 29 June 2017, the tax reliefs not included in that reply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32137/17]

11/07/2017WRG01000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I understand that Parliamentary Ques- tion number 32 of 29 June 2017, answered by my colleague, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, concerned the annual cost to the State of securing new jobs through foreign direct investment.

Tax reliefs are generally available to all undertakings and not specifically targeted at FDI companies. Therefore it is not possible to separately identify the tax reliefs claimed by such companies.

One tax relief that may be of interest to companies providing FDI to Ireland is the Special Assignee Relief Programme (SARP). However, it may or may not be utilised by FDI companies and therefore its cost cannot be directly linked to the cost of securing foreign direct investment jobs.

The Revenue Commissioners produce an annual report on the cost and uptake of SARP, which includes detail on its operation as well as an analysis of the number of jobs supported by the scheme. These reports are available at the following link: http://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/information-about-revenue/research/statistical-reports/special-asignee-relief-programme. aspx

SARP reduces the cost to employers of assigning key individuals in their companies from

196 11 July 2017 abroad to take up positions in the Irish based operations of the employer. In Budget 2017 SARP was extended until the end of 2020 in order to provide certainty for potential investors in Ire- land following on from the UK vote to leave the European Union. The scheme gives qualifying key assignees that are appointed to roles in Ireland, an exemption from income tax on 30% of salary in excess of €75,000 for a maximum of 5 years. However, USC and PRSI generally remain chargeable on all of the relevant income.

In order to qualify for SARP, an assignee must have been employed by the company in a country with which Ireland has a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) or a Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA) immediately prior to their assignment to Ireland. They must be tax resident in Ireland in the relevant tax year in order to qualify for SARP and must have been employed abroad by the relevant employer for a minimum of 6 months.

11/07/2017WRG01100Tax Rebates

11/07/2017WRG01200119. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of extending the VRT rebate for electric, electric hybrid and plug in hybrid cars in each of the years from 2018 to 2022. [32186/17]

11/07/2017WRG01300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am informed by Revenue that the cost of the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) rebate for electric, electric hybrid and plug in hybrid cars in 2017 is estimated at €15 million for the year. There is no basis available to Revenue on which to forecast possible future growth, so assuming that there would be no change in registration numbers in each of the years 2018 to 2022 the estimated cost would be €15 million per annum.

11/07/2017WRG01400Living City Initiative

11/07/2017WRG01500120. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will extend the living city initiative to all provincial towns to incentivise persons to move back into town centres to help revitalise towns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32316/17]

11/07/2017WRG01600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Living City Initiative was enacted in the Finance Act 2013 and commenced on 5th May 2015. The Initiative was extended beyond the original planned pilot cities of Limerick and Waterford, to include the cities of Dublin, Cork, Galway and Kilkenny. In line with my Department’s commitment to evidence based policy-making, the inclusion of these additional four cities followed the completion of a comprehensive, independent ex-ante cost benefit analysis.

To date, take-up of the scheme has been lower than anticipated. A review was undertaken last year by my officials and this was published in the Report on Tax Expenditures (October 2016) that was released on Budget Day.

In light of the findings in the report, and in consultation with the relevant councils and the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, I announced a number of changes to the scheme in Budget 2017 to make the scheme more attractive and effective. The aim is to get the design of the initiative right and working in an effective manner. It is important that the underpinning scheme is made more effective, as until that has been achieved, extension of eligibility for it to other towns or cities would be largely meaningless. Accordingly, I do not currently propose to extend the scheme beyond the present locations.

The Deputy may wish to note that the recently launched “Realising our Rural Potential:

197 Questions - Written Answers Action Plan for Rural Development” by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs contains a detailed list of actions and priorities with a view to revitalising rural Ireland generally. This effort is being led by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in conjunction with Ministers and officials from other Departments, as well as the Local Authorities and a range of other stakeholders.

A variety of actions included in this plan aim to assist in improving rural towns and making rural Ireland a better place to live. These include the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, under which funding of up to €12 million per annum is available to revitalise rural towns and villages, while there is also a commitment to develop and pilot an initiative to encourage increased residential occupancy in town and village centres.

Furthermore, the Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) provides for an income tax credit for homeowners or landlords of residential property, who carry out repair, renovation or improvement works on their property. It provides for tax relief by way of an income tax credit at 13.5% of qualifying expenditure. Qualifying work must cost a minimum of €5,000 (including VAT). The maximum qualifying cost for the purpose of the incentive is (€30,000 including VAT), which equates to a maximum tax credit of €4,050. The tax credit is payable over the two years following the year in which the work is paid for. The Deputy may be aware that the incentive was extended for a further two years in the last Budget.

11/07/2017WRG01700Tax Code

11/07/2017WRG01800121. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated additional revenue that would be raised by increasing the bank levy by ten percentage points and by 10%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32106/17]

11/07/2017WRG01900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In Budget 2016, the Minister for Fi- nance committed to extending the bank levy (a form of stamp duty paid by financial institutions) until 2021, subject to a review of the calculation methodology. This took place during 2016, including a public consultation to ascertain the views of stakeholders. Following on from this, it was decided to retain the existing DIRT-based calculation methodology, but to update the base year and corresponding levy rate, in order to protect the €150 million annual yield. Minister Noonan committed to the introduction of a rolling two-year series of base years which will introduce a new base year of 2017 for calculating the levy in 2019 and 2020, and a new base year of 2019 for calculating the levy in 2021. The levy rate may require updating when the base year changes to protect the €150 million annual yield.

The current rate is 59% of the amount paid in DIRT by accounts within each institution in 2015.

Increasing the current rate by 10 percentage points would give a rate of 69%. If everything else was held equal, a rate of 69% would give an approximate yield of €175 million.

Increasing the current rate by 10% would give a rate of 64.9%. If everything else was held equal, a rate of 64.9% would give an approximate yield of €165 million.

11/07/2017WRG02000NAMA Property Sales

11/07/2017WRG02100122. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Finance the number of sites and units NAMA has sold to a charity (details supplied) in each of the years from 2010 to 2016 and to

198 11 July 2017 date in 2017; the costs associated with same; the type of sale, private treaty or through National Asset Residential Property Services, NARPS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32118/17]

11/07/2017WRG02200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Deputy will be aware that NAMA, through its continued engagement with the Department of Housing, Planning & Local Gov- ernment, has played a very important role in facilitating, on a commercial basis, the supply of social housing from within its existing portfolio.

To end-June 2017, NAMA had delivered 2,398 properties for social housing use to both local authorities and approved housing bodies. Of this, 590 units have been delivered to Clúid. This excludes any units which may also have been delivered by NAMA debtors or receivers through Part V provision.

Of the 590 units delivered to Clúid, 202 properties were by way of lease from NARPS, with the balance of 388 units delivered through direct sale by NAMA debtors or receivers. All such transactions are conducted on a commercial basis in line with NAMA’s legislative mandate. NAMA is not in a position to provide commercially sensitive information such as costs associated with these transactions.

The annual breakdown of units delivered to Clúid is provided in the following table. A full breakdown of NAMA delivery of social housing, by area and approved housing body, is published quarterly at https://www.nama.ie/social-initiatives/social-housing/.

Year No. of units delivered to Clúid 2017 0 2016 45 2015 138 2014 189 2012-2013 160 2011 58 Total 590

11/07/2017WRG02300Financial Services Regulation

11/07/2017WRG02400123. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated saving that would accrue from moving the entire cost of regulation of the financial sector onto the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32121/17]

11/07/2017WRG02500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Central Bank’s total funding requirement for financial regulation activity is determined on an annual basis by the resources required to discharge its legal responsibilities under domestic and EU law. Section 32D and 32E of the Central Bank Act 1942, as amended, provide that the Central Bank Commission may make regulations relating to the imposition of levies and fees on the financial services sector in respect of the recoupment of the costs of financial regulation.

As it stands, the financial services industry currently funds 50% of the costs incurred by the Central Bank for financial regulation, with certain exceptions including the banks which had participated in the Eligible Liabilities Guarantee (ELG) Scheme, namely AIB, Bank of Ireland and Permanent TSB, which are required to fund 100% of the Central Bank’s regulatory costs. Credit Unions currently contribute approximately 8% to the cost of their regulation.

199 Questions - Written Answers The current 50% funding arrangement translates into a corresponding reduction in the annual surplus remitted by the Central Bank to the Exchequer. The total cost of financial regulation in 2016 was approximately €150 million; industry levies were €79m and subvention was €70 million. Therefore in the order of €70 million of the Central Bank’s 2016 surplus income was redirected to make up for the difference between the costs of regulation and the funding received from the financial services industry, which would otherwise have been surrendered to the Exchequer.

However, following on from a joint Department/Central Bank Public Consultation on funding the costs of financial regulation, the Minister for Finance approved an increase to 65% of the costs of financial regulation being borne by industry, with certain exceptions (for instance, the ELG banks and credit unions will maintain their existing funding arrangements, among other exemptions). This will be implemented in the 2017 industry funding levy regulations. The arguments in favour of a move to a funding model where industry bear a greater proportion of the costs of financial regulation were articulated in the public consultation paper. These include, the scale of resources devoted to regulation, the escalating costs that are borne by the taxpayer, and the changing landscape of the industry where consumers are located both here and abroad. My Department and the Central Bank are in the process of finalising a joint Feed- back Statement to the Public Consultation which will be published in Q3 2017.

Therefore, the 2017 industry funding levies will recoup 65% of the costs of financial regulation from industry (with certain sectoral exceptions). This means that the subvention from the Central Bank will amount to approximately 35% of the total cost rather than 50%. What this translates to in monetary terms will be determined by the resources required by the Bank to discharge its legal responsibilities during the year.

11/07/2017WRG02600Revenue Commissioners Staff

11/07/2017WRG02700124. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated amount the tax take would increase by in 2018 by hiring 125 qualified Revenue Commissioners staff to tackle black market activity and tax evasion (details supplied). [32122/17]

11/07/2017WRG02800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that Rev- enue’s Comprehensive Review of Expenditure 2014 estimated that by increasing audit staffing resources by c.100 staff an additional Exchequer yield of €50m per annum could be achieved.

It was estimated that by increasing staff on compliance projects such as oils, tobacco and alcohol by 100 could raise €20m per annum. On this basis it is estimated that increasing staff on compliance projects such as oils, tobacco and alcohol by 25 could raise €5m per annum.

It was noted that the investment in the training and development of a Revenue auditor or investigator can take up to three years, depending on previous relevant experience. Therefore, it is not possible to accurately estimate the additional yield that would arise in 2018 from the recruitment of new staff in 2018.

Revenue undertakes a range of risk management interventions to target and confront those who do not comply, including tax evasion and black market activity. The objective is that people are deterred from filing inaccurate returns and from engaging in shadow economy activity and smuggling. The range of interventions has increased in recent years. Interventions include appraisals, aspect queries, profile interviews, assurance checks, enforcement, investigation and prosecutions, as well as audits. The appropriate intervention depends on the relevant risk. The average rate of return on each type of intervention varies depending on the intervention. In

200 11 July 2017 some types of interventions to tackle evasion and the black economy, such as enforcement, the focus is on the detection of drugs and fiscal smuggling where the direct Exchequer yield is not the immediate objective. It must also be recognised that Revenue has to prioritise its resources and must, for example, provide service for compliance, by making it easier and less costly to voluntarily comply.

In the preparation for the Estimates of 2015, 2016 and 2017, Revenue made business cases for additional resources. Over the Budgets of 2015, 2016 and 2017, they were provided with an increase of 266 (126, 50 and 90) in additional resources to deal with a wide variety of staffing requirements across audit and compliance functions, debt management functions, international tax, etc. This Government will continue to carefully consider any request by Revenue for additional resources.

11/07/2017WRG02900Mortgage Arrears Proposals

11/07/2017WRG03000125. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he or the Central Bank have changed policy on the use of the split mortgage restructuring method for mortgages in arrears in view of the recent High Court ruling involving persons and a bank (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32127/17]

11/07/2017WRG03100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): A comprehensive framework is now in place to address the mortgage arrears problem. One important part of the strategy is the ongoing Central Bank action to require banks to engage with their borrowers in mortgage difficulty and to formulate sustainable solutions to address cases of mortgage arrears. Within the remit of the Central Bank’s responsibilities for safeguarding stability and protecting consumers, its approach to mortgage arrears resolution is focused on ensuring the fair treatment of borrowers through a strong consumer protection framework and ensuring that lenders have appropriate arrears resolution strategies and operations in place.

The Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears (CCMA) is a key part of the Central Bank’s Consumer Protection Framework in this regard. The CCMA provides a strong consumer protection framework, aimed specifically at the process to be followed by relevant firms with each borrower by reference to that borrower’s individual circumstances, to ensure borrowers in arrears or pre-arrears in respect of a mortgage loan secured on a primary residence are treated in a timely, transparent and fair manner by reference to that borrower’s individual circumstances.

Each regulated entity must consider the borrower’s situation in the context of the solutions they provide, which may differ from firm to firm. The CCMA does not prescribe the solution which must be offered. Rather, the CCMA includes requirements to ensure that any alternative repayment arrangement agreed between a lender and borrower be appropriate and sustainable and based on a full assessment of the individual circumstances of that borrower.

Under the CCMA, a lender must explore all of the options for alternative arrangements offered by that lender and such alternative repayment arrangements may include a split mortgage. The Central Bank has also published guidelines on Sustainable Mortgage Arrears Solutions which provides guidance to supervisors as to the important factors to consider when assessing if the restructures implemented are in fact sustainable solutions for resolving distressed mortgage cases. Information relating to a range of restructure arrangements is provided, including split mortgages.

However, as the Deputy is aware, where it is not possible to agree sustainable solutions at a bilateral level, the personal insolvency framework has been significantly reformed over recent

201 Questions - Written Answers years to provide borrowers with more flexible and accessible statutory options to address unsustainable mortgage and other debts. In particular, where it is appropriate in the circumstances of the individual case, the Courts can now confirm a PIA proposal to address an unsustainable primary home mortgage debt even though the proposal is opposed by the mortgage creditor, provided that the arrangement will enable the creditor to recover the debts due to the extent that the means of the debtor reasonably permits. Therefore, the new insolvency framework now provides for a fairer balance between the legitimate interests of both creditors and insolvent debtors in the resolution of unsustainable mortgage debt situations.

11/07/2017WRG03200Tax Credits

11/07/2017WRG03300126. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his plans to amend the qualifying rules for the fishers tax credit and the seafarers allowance in order that fishermen whose journey begins or ends within the State can avail of the relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32129/17]

11/07/2017WRG03400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Both the fishers tax credit and the seafarers allowance are already available to qualifying persons whose journeys either begin or end in the State. In the case of the fishers tax credit, relief is also already available to qualifying persons whose journeys begin and end in the State.

Section 472BA of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, which provides for the fishers tax credit, requires that a fisher spends at least 80 days at sea in a given year to avail of the credit. There is no impediment to fishers qualifying for the credit where voyages (a) begin and end or (b) only begin or only end in the State.

Section 472B of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides for the seafarers allowance in relation to voyages that begin or end outside the State where the seafarer is absent from the State for at least 161 days in a tax year. The incentive is intended to support the commercial international shipping sector and applies in relation to international voyages (including voyages to the UK) “solely for the trade of carrying by sea passengers or cargo for reward” (subsection (1)) but is not available in relation to “an employment the emoluments of which are paid out of the revenue of the State” (subsection (3)).

In relation to the possibility of extending relief to commercial seafarers whose voyages both begin and end in the State, I am not aware of a significant cohort of commercial seafarers spending large amounts of time away from home who would benefit from such an extension. However, I am willing to ask my officials to give due consideration to any further proposals the Deputy might have in relation to specific categories of seafarers who may not be currently eligible.

11/07/2017WRG03500Tax Code

11/07/2017WRG03600127. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the options open to a person with a PRSA contract when drawing down the maximum amount of a tax-free lump sum and-or purchasing an annuity either before the PRSA contract matures or at the date of maturity; the position regarding the person’s rights in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32132/17]

11/07/2017WRG03700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that the relevant legislation setting out the treatment of PRSAs is contained in Chapter 2A of Part 30 of 202 11 July 2017 the Taxes Consolidation Act (TCA) 1997. Except in limited circumstances, benefits can not be drawn down until the individual is at least 60 years of age, as set out in section 787K of the TCA 1997.

The amount of lump sum that can be taken on retirement depends on the type of PRSA, and the rules of the individual scheme, as set out in section 787G(3)(a) of the TCA. For a PRSA linked to an occupational pension scheme into which Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) have been made, the lump sum available is based on the scheme rules, the individuals length of service and their final earnings, with 150% of final salary being the maximum lump sum available based on 20 years service. For other PRSAs, on the first occasion that benefits are taken from the PRSA up to 25% of the fund may be taken as a retirement lump sum.

The maximum cumulative tax-free total of all retirement lump sums that an individual can take from all pension arrangements is €200,000. Any lump sums taken in excess of this cumulative life-time limit are subject to taxation at a rate of 20% on the next €300,000, and at the individual’s marginal income tax rate plus USC on any balance.

A PRSA from which retirement benefits have commenced is referred to as a vested PRSA, as defined in section 790D of the TCA 1997. The balance of the fund after the 25% lump sum may be retained in the PRSA, used to purchase an annuity, or to exercise the Approved Retire- ment Fund (ARF) options, subject to certain criteria.

An individual who retains the balance of a PRSA after payment of the retirement lump sum may then draw down from that balance as and when they choose. The amounts drawn down from a vested PRSA are generally treated as emoluments and are subject to tax under Schedule E at the individual’s marginal rate.

11/07/2017WRG03800Tax Reliefs Data

11/07/2017WRG03900128. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Finance his plans for a national information campaign to inform persons on the way in which to claim tax back on medical and dental expenses, in view of the fact that many persons are missing out on refunds for their medical expenses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32154/17]

11/07/2017WRG04000129. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Revenue Com- missioners in each of the years from 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017 for medical and dental expenses refunds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32155/17]

11/07/2017WRG04100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 and 129 together.

I am informed by Revenue that due to the timing of tax returns, 2014 is the most recent year for which complete data are available. Revenue received over 420,000 health expenses claims for 2014 at an estimated cost to the Exchequer of €146 million, which relates to a claims value of approximately €730m. The information for earlier years is published on the Commissioners’ webpage at http://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/information-about-revenue/statistics/tax-expenditures/costs-expenditures.aspx. Updates will be published shortly for 2015. These figures include claims for both medical and dental expenses. I am further advised that a separate breakdown of the estimated cost of tax relief for medical or dental expenses alone is not available.

Revenue actively encourages taxpayers to manage their tax affairs and regularly reminds them of their tax obligations and how to claim their entitlements including health expenses. Revenue makes taxpayers aware of their entitlements as regards tax relief for health expenses 203 Questions - Written Answers through various initiatives including:

- Advisory visits/outreach events: For example, in 2016 Revenue participated in 434 such events, which included hosting information stands at a range of local and national events and visits to some of the larger employers.

- Marketing campaigns including significant campaigns advertising the myaccount online service and poster campaigns in 1,100 medical centres and pharmacies throughout the country raising awareness of the tax relief for health expenses.

- Targeted marketing campaigns: For example, in 2016 Revenue:

- Wrote to 137,000 PAYE taxpayers who had made no change to their tax record in the previous four years to advise them to review their records to ensure they were claiming all their entitlements and to remind them of the four-year time limit for claiming a tax refund.

- Wrote to a further 42,000 PAYE taxpayers who had claimed health expenses in previous tax years to remind them to claim their health expenses for 2015 and advising of the most efficient way of claiming.

- Release of the RevApp free mobile phone application in October 2016, containing a Re- ceipts Tracker functionality which assists taxpayers to manage their receipts for tax purposes, including health expenses.

- Participating in radio interviews on both national and local stations.

- Displaying health expenses claims entitlements prominently on its recently re-launched website www.revenue.ie.

In the third quarter of this year Revenue plans to undertake further initiatives to continue to encourage taxpayers to claim their entitlements including health expenses. I am satisfied that Revenue is taking and will continue to take appropriate initiatives to encourage taxpayers to claims their entitlements.

11/07/2017WRG04300Fiscal Policy

11/07/2017WRG04400130. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance his plans to establish a rainy day fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32161/17]

11/07/2017WRG04500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As part of the 2016 Summer Economic Statement, the Government announced its intention to establish a contingency reserve/rainy day fund with effect from 2019.

The crisis years clearly demonstrated that volatility in the economic cycle can be much more pronounced in Ireland due to the open nature of the Irish economy. As such, the rainy day fund would provide a prudent counter-cyclical buffer, with annual transfers from the Exchequer to the rainy day fund expected following the achievement of the Medium Term Budgetary Ob- jective, projected to be next year.

The rainy day fund is currently under review and further information will be provided in the 2017 Summer Economic Statement, which is due to be published this week.

11/07/2017WRH00200Tax Code

204 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRH00300131. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance if his Department or a body under its aegis has explored the prospect of applying local property tax to development sites with or without a building or structure zoned as suitable for residential development; his views on whether this could be a means of introducing a site value tax to reduce land hoarding and reduce speculative investment in development land; and the estimated revenue intake from such a tax. [32216/17]

11/07/2017WRH00400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Following a commitment given in Bud- get 2015, a public consultation was conducted by my Department in 2015 on the issue of unused zoned and serviced land with a view to examining what taxation measures might be taken to penalise land owners who do not develop such land.

The Urban Regeneration and Housing Act 2015 (No 33 of 2015) gives Local Authorities new powers to incentivise the development of zoned and serviced land, as well as providing for other measures which are intended to facilitate housing development. The 2015 Act allows for the possibility of applying the vacant site levy to both brownfield (in-fill) and greenfield (new) development sites so long as they are located in designated areas in local authority development plans for the application of the levy. I understand that the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government proposes to encourage local authorities to apply the levy on as wide a basis as possible (brownfield and greenfield sites) in order to bring housing supply on stream earlier than would otherwise be the case.

On considering the outcome of the public consultation and the enactment of the Urban Re- generation and Housing Act 2015, it was determined that no new tax intended to encourage the development of residentially zoned and serviced land would be introduced.

In relation to a site valuation tax, the Deputy may wish to note that the 2012 report of the Inter-departmental Group on the Design of a Local Property Tax (the “Thornhill Group”) comprehensively examined the basis of assessment for the Local Property Tax (LPT), including both the taxable value of the property option and a site value tax (SVT). The report favoured the use of market value of residential properties as the basis of assessment and this recommendation was accepted by the Government.

The Thornhill Group concluded that the arguments for SVT were outweighed by the likely difficulties in ensuring acceptance by taxpayers, i.e., arriving at values that were evidence based, understandable and acceptable to the public in addition to complexities and uncertainties in the valuation effort necessary to put an SVT in place. In contrast, the Group considered that under a market value approach applied to housing, the market value of a residential property would be related to the characteristics of the building itself, the site on which it was located and the characteristics and amenities of the neighbourhood. There would be a relationship between the market value of a house and benefits to the owners in terms of enjoyment of the amenity value of the properties.

At the request of the Minister for Finance, the operation of the LPT was reviewed in 2015 by Dr. Thornhill. A number of submissions to the review favoured changing the basis of determination of LPT liabilities to site value, floor area or variations thereof. Dr. Thornhill considered these but remained of the view that market value is the most appropriate and equitable basis on which to determine LPT liabilities.

11/07/2017WRH00500Tax Credits

11/07/2017WRH00600132. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of increas-

205 Questions - Written Answers ing the self-employed tax credit in circumstances (details supplied). [32223/17]

11/07/2017WRH00700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am informed by Revenue that the estimated first and full year cost to the Exchequer of increasing the Earned Income Credit (EIC) to levels proposed by the Deputy and tapering the increase by 5% per €1,000 between €80,000 and €100,000, with no additional credit entitlement (above the current €950) when income exceeds €100,000, is outlined in the following table.

EIC increase First Year€m Full Year€m By €250 to €1,200 19 33 By €350 to €1,300 26 46 By €450 to €1,400 33 60 By €550 to €1,500 41 73 By €700 to €1,650 52 93 The figures for the cost of the increase in EIC are based on the Revenue tax forecasting model using latest actual data for the year 2014, adjusted as necessary for income, self-employment and employment trends in the interim. They are based on taxpayer units with married persons or civil partners who have elected or who have been deemed to have elected for joint- assessment counted as one tax unit. They are estimated by reference to 2017 incomes and are provisional and may be revised.

Finally, I am advised by Revenue that, given the current tax structures, major issues would need to be resolved as to how, in practice, the tapering out of tax credits could be integrated into the current system, and how this would affect the relative position of different types of income earners.

11/07/2017WRH00800Tax Code

11/07/2017WRH00900133. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the 2018 and full year cost or yield of all additional taxation measures announced as part of budget 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32238/17]

11/07/2017WRH01000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The 2018 and full year costs and yields for the tax measures announced in Budget 2017 are set out as follows.

1. REVENUE RAISING Yield2018€m YieldFull Year€m MEASURES EXCISE Tobacco Products TaxExcise 65 65 duty on a pack of 20 cigarettes is increased by 50c, with a pro-rata increase on other tobacco products. It will raise the price of cigarettes in the most popular price category to €11.00 per pack of 20 cigarettes. COMPLIANCE MEA- SURES

206 11 July 2017 1. REVENUE RAISING Yield2018€m YieldFull Year€m MEASURES EXCISE Section 110Draft amend- See Note 1 35 ments to Section 110 will be made in the Finance Bill to address unintended uses of the section. Further amendments will address other issues arising in relation to Funds and property. Tackling offshore tax eva- See Note 2 sionA comprehensive programme of targeted compliance interventions against those engaged in offshore tax evasion. Increase resources to con- See Note 3 front non-complianceIn- creasing Revenue staff resources on audit and investigation activities as well as enhancing ICT systems capacity.

2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC Incomes of €13,000 or less -390 -390 are exempt. Otherwise,€0 to €12,012 @ 0.5%€12,013 to €18,772 @ 2.5%€18,773 to €70,044 @ 5%€70,045 to €100,000 @ 8%PAYE income in excess of €100,000 @ 8%Self-employed income in excess of €100,000 @ 11%Medical card holders and individuals aged 70 years and over whose aggregate income does not exceed €60,000 will now pay a maximum USC rate of 2.5%. INCOME TAX An increase in the Home -8 -8 Carer Tax Credit from €1,000 to €1,100

207 Questions - Written Answers 2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC An increase in the Earned -58 -58 Income Credit from €550 to €950 Interest Relief – Rented Res- -22 -70 idential PropertyThe deduction available for qualifying interest payments on monies borrowed to purchase, improve or repair residential rental property is being increased from 75% to 100% over the next 5 years. The deduction will be increased by 5 percentage points each year, with the first increase from 75% to 80% to take effect from 1 January 2017. This measure will apply to both new and existing mortgages. The full-year cost of €70 million, being the cost for full restoration to 100%, will be reached in 2022. Deposit interest retention See Note 4 tax (DIRT)Reduced rate of DIRT: The rate of DIRT will be decreased by 2% each year for the next 4 years until it reaches 33%. The costs shown are in relation to the first 2% reduction. Each subsequent reduction is currently costed at the same amount. (The full year cost will be reached in 2020) OTHER INCOME TAX MEASURES

208 11 July 2017 2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC Foreign Earnings Deduc- _ -3 tion (FED)[1]FED is being extended until the end of 2020. Colombia and Paki- stan are being added to the list of qualifying countries. The minimum number of days required to be spent in the qualifying countries is being reduced from 40 to 30 per annum. This will help smaller businesses to access the relief to identify trading opportunities in non- traditional markets for Irish goods and services. Special Assignee Relief -8 -8 Programme[2]To provide certainty to the FDI sector, SARP, which was due to expire at the end of next year, is being extended for an additional 3 years until the end of 2020. HOUSING Help to BuyA rebate of -40 -40 Income Tax paid is being introduced to assist first time buyers of newly built homes to fund the deposit required under the Central Bank mac- ro-prudential rules. Income Tax paid over the previous four years will be available for rebate, up to a total value of 5% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of €400,000. Where the new home is valued between €400,000 and €600,000 the maximum relief (i.e. €20,000) will continue to be available. Homes valued at greater than €600,000 will not qualify for any relief. This scheme will run until the end of 2019.

209 Questions - Written Answers 2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC Capital acquisitions tax- -25 -25 Changes to tax-free thresholds:The Group A lifetime tax-free threshold applying to gifts and inheritances from parents to children is being raised from €280,000 to €310,000, The Group B lifetime tax-free threshold applying to gifts and inheritances made to parents, siblings, nieces, nephews or grandchildren is being raised from €30,150 to €32,500.The Group C lifetime tax-free threshold applying to gifts and inheritances made to all others (except spouses and civil partners who are exempt) is being raised from €15,075 to €16,250 Rent a RoomThe ceiling -1 -1 for the rent-a-room scheme is being increased from €12,000 to €14,000 for 2017 and subsequent years. This scheme provides that where a homeowner rents out a room or rooms in their principle private residence they can earn up to €14,000 tax free. The increase will allow homeowners to rent out an additional room at standard rental rates without breaching the new ceiling.

210 11 July 2017 2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC Living City InitiativeThe -2 -3 Living City Initiative is being amended to encourage an increase in the take-up of the scheme. This initiative is being extended to landlords in respect of rented residential property. In addition, the restriction on the maximum floor size of the property is being removed, along with the requirement that the property must have been previously used as a dwelling. Home Renovation Incen- -19 -38 tiveThe HRI is being extended until 31 December 2018. ENTREPRENEURS/SELF- EMPLOYED Accelerated Capital Allow- -3 -3 ances for energy efficient equipmentThe existing scheme of accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment is being made available to sole traders and non-corporates. Start Your Own Business -10 -10 ReliefThe Start Your Own Business relief provides a limited income tax exemption for individuals who are long term unemployed who set up their own business. It is being extended for a further 2 years until the end of 2018 to encourage additional new start-up businesses. Revised CGT entrepreneur -14 -14 relief:A reduced CGT rate of 10% will apply to the disposal in whole or in part of a business up to an overall limit of €1 million in qualifying chargeable gains.

211 Questions - Written Answers 2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC RURAL ECONOMY Fishers Tax CreditA new tax -6 -6 credit is being introduced for fishers to assist the viability of the fishing sector. Fishers who have fished for at least 80 days in a tax year will be entitled to an income tax credit of €1,270 per annum. Agri-TaxationThe Income _ _ Averaging regime allows a farmer’s taxable profit to be averaged out over a 5-year period. It is being amended to allow a farmer to “step out” of averaging in a year where income is low. This will be available immediately for farmers who will be paying their preliminary tax towards the end of this month. Increase in Farmer’s Flat- -11 -11 Rate Addition from 5.2% to 5.4% (VAT)The farmer’s flat-rate addition will be increased from 5.2% to 5.4% with effect from 1 January 2017 Bog restoration (€2m one- _ _ off cost) Farm restructuring -1 -1 Fishing vessel decommis- -2 -2 sioning MISCELLANEOUS OTHER TAXATION MEA- SURES EXCISEHigh Efficiency -2 -2 Combines Heat and PowerA full carbon tax relief is being provided to incentivise the uptake of HE CHP for fuel inputs used in highly efficient electricity generation

212 11 July 2017 2. REVENUE RELIEVING Cost2018€m Cost Full Year€m MEASURES USC Microbreweries ReliefThe _ _ special relief reducing the standard rate of Alcohol Products Tax by 50% on beer produced in microbreweries which produce not more than 30,000 hectolitres per annum is being extended to apply to microbreweries which produce not more than 40,000 hectolitres per annum. The amount of hectolitres upon which a brew- ery can claim relief remains at 30,000 hectolitres. This increase is an interim measure to allow for a review of the relief with a view to introducing a tapered relief. Vehicle Registration Tax -15 -15 (VRT)[3] The VRT reliefs available for the purchase of hybrid electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, are being extended to 31 December 2018. Electric vehicles, and electric motor- cycles are being extended to 31 December 2021. Note 1:

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that to forecast the yield for section 110 companies and Irish Real estate funds in 2018 requires predicting changes in taxpayer behaviour; as such it is still too early for the Department or Revenue to estimate any potential yield beyond 2017, however based on receipts received to date it is likely that the expected yield in 2017 will be exceeded. This position will become clearer in the last quarter of this year.

Note 2:

The success of this compliance measure considerably exceeded expectations and I am advised by Revenue that so far the one-off (2017) yield has exceeded €75m.

Note 3:

This measure was estimated at the time to have a full-year yield for 2017 of €50m. In- creased resources to confront non-compliance have been introduced in both Budgets 2016 and 2017, such measures increase the budget yield forecast but only in the year of the measure. These amounts are then in the base for future years rather than leading to additional yield in future years.

213 Questions - Written Answers Note 4:

This is a four-year reduction in the rate of DIRT for which the estimated full year cost is €36m.

[1] No impact on the fiscal space.

[2] No impact on the fiscal space.

[3] No impact on the fiscal space.

11/07/2017WRH01100Property Tax Assessments

11/07/2017WRH01200134. Deputy Josepha Madigan asked the Minister for Finance his plans to extend the freeze of local property tax valuations past 2019; his plans to implement further recommendations of the Thornhill report; and the way he plans to mitigate the effects of rapidly rising house prices in places such as Dublin Rathdown. [32363/17]

11/07/2017WRH01300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Department of Finance engaged Dr. Don Thornhill in 2015 to conduct a review to consider and make recommendations on the operation of the Local Property Tax, in particular any impacts on LPT liabilities due to recent property price developments. Dr. Thornhill made a number of recommendations in his report on his review of the Local Property Tax. His central recommendation was for a revised system whereby a minimum level of LPT revenues in each local authority area would be determined by Government, ideally having regard to the apportionment between local authority areas of the historic yield. This in turn would allow for the estimation of LPT rates for each local authority area and the application of these by taxpayers and Revenue. Local authorities could adjust this rate upwards by a factor of up to 15%. This new system was recommended by Dr. Thornhill with a possible interim deferral of the next valuation date until November 2018 or November 2019.

The Minister for Finance subsequently proposed to Government that the revaluation date for the LPT be postponed from 2016 to 2019. This postponement meant that home owners were not faced with significant increases in their LPT in 2017 as a result of increased property values. The postponement also gives sufficient time for the other recommendations in Dr. Thornhill’s report to be considered fully by the Government and there are no proposals to change this.

The Finance (Local Property Tax) (Amendment) Act 2015 gave effect to the postponement of the revaluation date of residential property for LPT purposes, and also to two of the recommendations in Dr. Thornhill’s report, involving LPT relief for properties affected by pyrite and relief for properties occupied by persons with disabilities.

My Department will be considering issues relating to the implementation of other recommendations in the Thornhill Report in due course in line with the 2019 timeline.

11/07/2017WRH01400Tax Reliefs Application

11/07/2017WRH01500135. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the steps his Department has taken with the Revenue Commissioners to investigate the use of section 110 tax relief by firms since the introduction of the Finance Bill 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32371/17]

214 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRH01600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Revenue is statutorily independent in the exercise of its functions in implementing taxation legislation. Accordingly, my Department has no role in investigating compliance with tax legislation. However, Revenue also has a role in providing me and my Department with advice and data on the operation of the taxation system and I am informed by Revenue that, if any policy issues arise in connection with the practical implementation of the legislation on “section 110” companies introduced in Finance Act 2016, they will provide me with all relevant information necessary for policy purposes, subject to their legal requirements to observe taxpayer confidentiality.

By way of background. section 110 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 sets out a regime for the taxation of special purpose companies set up to securitise assets. The tax provisions are intended to create a tax neutral regime for securitisation and structured finance purposes.

The section 110 regime was designed to improve Ireland’s offering as a location for the conduct of financial services. It has achieved that broad goal and the financial services industry now makes use of these vehicles as a support to financial intermediation.

Section 22 Finance Act 2016 restricts the use of the section 110 regime to minimise Irish tax liabilities on Irish property or distressed debt transactions. The core effect of the amendment removes the possibility for section 110 companies to use what are known as ‘profit participating notes’ to sweep Irish property or distressed debt profits out of the company in a way that ensures little or no Irish tax liability arises.

I am informed by Revenue that the amendments made in Finance Act 2016 came into effect for accounting periods commencing on or after 6 September 2016. The corporation tax returns due for accounting periods ending 31 December 2016 do not fall due until the end of September 2017. These returns will only reflect the impact of the change in “section 110” legislation for the period from 6 September 2016 to 31 December 2016.

All “section 110” companies are assigned to, and managed by, the Financial Services (Bank- ing) District in Revenue’s Large Cases Division. Taxpayers are selected by the District for compliance interventions based on the presence of various risk indicators and interventions are conducted in accordance with the “Code of Practice for Revenue Audit and other Compliance Interventions.” The impact of the 2016 legislative amendment will be reviewed by that District in due course and compliance interventions undertaken where necessary when the relevant tax returns and associated financial statements are reviewed and examined.

11/07/2017WRH01700Tax Code

11/07/2017WRH01800136. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the preparations his Department made in advance of the national economic dialogue regarding the fiscal space for USC and income tax reductions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32372/17]

11/07/2017WRH01900Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I take it the Deputy is referring to the National Economic Dialogue 2017 which took place in Dublin Castle last month. The Pro- gramme for Partnership Government contains a commitment that budget measures will involve at least a 2:1 split between public spending and tax reductions. This commitment is also contained in the confidence and supply agreement with Fianna Fáil.

The most recent published estimate of the net fiscal space available for 2018, as set out in Budget 2017 last October, is €1.2 billion. I have set out previously that the carryover-cost of measures introduced in Budget 2017 amounts to c.€700 million, leaving c.€500 million available for allocation in Budget 2018 for tax and expenditure measures. The next estimate of the 215 Questions - Written Answers fiscal space for 2018, will be set out in the Summer Economic Statement 2017, which is due to be published this week.

11/07/2017WRH02000Tax Code

11/07/2017WRH02100137. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if his officials have examined the European Commission decision in respect of tax breaks for employees in Sweden when they exercise their share options; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32374/17]

11/07/2017WRH02200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware, on a foot of a review of share based remuneration conducted in 2016, it was announced in the last Budget that work had commenced on the development of a new, SME-focussed, share-based incentive scheme, to be introduced in Budget 2018. It was noted that such an incentive would require the approval of the European Commission and that officials would be engaging with the Com- mission to ensure that the incentive would comply with State Aid rules in advance of the next Budget.

Work on this new incentive is ongoing. In this regard my officials are engaging with the European Commission in relation to satisfying EU State Aid rules. My officials have examined the Commission decision that the Deputy refers to, and have noted its contents particularly with regard to its relevance to the ongoing negotiations.

11/07/2017WRH02300Living City Initiative

11/07/2017WRH02400138. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of extending the living city initiative to cover entire structures rather than just historic segments of a structure; to cover all pre-1963 buildings; and to extend the coverage to all areas within the entire city areas of Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford in budget 2018. [32383/17]

11/07/2017WRH02500Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I am advised by Revenue that there is no data available to Revenue in respect of qualifying premises, or the likely additional uptake, to estimate the cost of extending the Living City Initiative scheme as outlined by the Deputy.

It should be noted that the Special Regeneration Areas for the Living City Initiative were designated following consultation with the relevant city councils and an independent review by a third party advisor. Specific criteria were set down in respect of the areas which should be included within the remit of the Living City Initiative which were required to be taken into account by the relevant city councils when putting forward the proposed Special Regenera- tion Areas for each city. In particular, it was stated that the Special Regeneration Areas should be inner city areas which are largely comprised of dwellings built before 1915, where there is above average unemployment and which demonstrate clear evidence of neglect, dereliction and under-use. It was specified that areas which are generally regarded as affluent, have high occupancy rates and which do not require regeneration should not be included in the Special Regeneration Areas.

Officials in my Department reviewed the Living City Initiative in 2016 in consultation with the relevant councils and the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Af- fairs. On foot of that review, Minister Noonan announced a number of changes to the scheme in Budget 2017 in order to make the initiative more attractive and effective. The principal change extended the residential element of the scheme to landlords, who are now able to claim the relief by way of accelerated capital allowances for the conversion and refurbishment of property, 216 11 July 2017 which was built prior to 1915, where such property is to be used for residential purposes. In addition, the requirement for a pre-1915 building to have been originally constructed for use as a dwelling in order to qualify for the residential element of the Initiative was removed. The floor area restriction for owner-occupiers has also been removed, while the minimum amount of capital expenditure required for eligibility for relief, under all elements of the scheme, was also amended and must now only exceed €5,000. The possibility of extending the special regeneration areas was considered, but it was decided that such a change would dilute the incentive’s potential impact on the originally targeted areas and that it would be better to get it working effectively before considering any further extension of the areas eligible.

The review was included in the Report on Tax Expenditures (October 2016) that was published on Budget Day.

11/07/2017WRH02600Tax Credits

11/07/2017WRH02700139. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of introducing a new affordable housing tax incentive for private housing developers whereby developers could claim back 100% VAT relief on all housing or apartment units delivered within a build to rent development that are sold or rented out to eligible recipients at affordable levels (details supplied). [32384/17]

11/07/2017WRH02800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): VAT is governed by the EU VAT Direc- tive (Council Directive 2006/112/EC), with which Irish VAT law must comply. Under the VAT Directive, the letting of residential property is exempt from VAT and therefore developers of such property are not entitled to VAT deductibility on their development costs where they let the property. Their rental income from these lettings is exempt from VAT. A property developer is liable for VAT on sales of developed residential property and is entitled to recover the VAT incurred in the development of that property. Under the VAT Directive there is no scope to allow VAT deductibility in relation to the development of properties that are to be put to a tax exempt use.

11/07/2017WRH02900Tax Credits

11/07/2017WRH03000140. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of introducing a new affordable housing tax credit whereby landlords would not have to pay tax on rental income for properties let over a five year period at affordable levels (details supplied). [32385/17]

11/07/2017WRH03100151. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of providing an income tax credit for landlords who accept HAP tenants, which would give them a tax-free allowance on 20% of rental income from a HAP tenancy. [32552/17]

11/07/2017WRH03200152. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of providing an income tax credit for landlords who accept tenants in receipt of rent supplement, which would give them a tax-free allowance on 20% of rental income from a tenancy. [32553/17]

11/07/2017WRH03300153. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Finance if he has explored proposals for tax inducements to landlords if they accept HAP or rent supplement tenants by making the tax treatment of rental income from a HAP tenancy more preferential than the tax treatment of income from a tenant in the private rental market. [32554/17]

11/07/2017WRH03400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 140

217 Questions - Written Answers and 151 to 153, inclusive, together.

I am advised by Revenue that there are no data available to estimate the cost of the various measures proposed by the Deputy. Under section 18 of the Taxes Consolidation Act (TCA) 1997, rental income earned by companies and individuals from a property situated in the State is taxable under Case V of Schedule D of the TCA 1997. This basis of taxation makes no distinction between rental income from property let for residential occupation and property let for commercial occupation, or between rental income from private tenants and tenants in receipt of social housing supports. Therefore, landlord income tax returns are not remitted to Revenue in a format in which rental income from tenants who are eligible for rent supplement or the Hous- ing Assistance Payment (HAP) can be separately identified, and there is therefore no basis on which Revenue can cost the proposals as outlined by the Deputy.

The Deputy may be aware that there is already tax relief in place to support landlords in providing accommodation to tenants in receipt of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) or rent supplement. The relief was introduced in Finance Act 2015 in order to improve the stability of housing supply to tenants in receipt of these social housing supports. The relief allows a full 100% mortgage interest deduction against rental income (increased from 75% in 2016 and from 80% in 2017) where a landlord undertakes, for a period of at least three years, to provide accommodation to such tenants and registers such undertakings with the Residential Tenancies Board within certain time limits. Further information on this relief is available in section 97 of the Revenue Commissioners – Notes for Guidance – Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 – Fi- nance Act 2016 Edition – Part 4 Principal Provisions Relating to the Schedule D charge, which is available at: http://www.revenue.ie/ga/tax-professionals/documents/notes-for-guidance/tca/ part04.pdf

As the Deputy may be aware, a working group was established in early 2017 to examine and report on the tax treatment of landlords (or rental accommodation providers) and to put forward options, where appropriate, for amendments to such treatment. This working group was established as part of the ‘Strategy for the Rental Sector’ which was published by the Department of Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government in December 2016. The working group is chaired by the Department of Finance and its membership consists of officials from the De- partment of Finance; the Revenue Commissioners; the Department of Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government; and the Residential Tenancies Board. As part of the group’s work, it undertook a public consultation on the tax treatment of landlords and it received almost 70 written submissions from a wide range of interested parties, including individual landlords, representative bodies and charitable organisations. The report of the working group is due to be presented to me by the end of July 2017, to allow for consideration of any of the options put forward as part of my deliberations for Budget 2018.

11/07/2017WRH03500Tax Reliefs Application

11/07/2017WRH03600141. Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance his views on tax relief for unmarried fathers based on maintenance support payments made to their children’s mother; and his further views on whether it is fair that tax relief is given for payments to former partners and not in respect of children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32417/17]

11/07/2017WRH03700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In order to determine the treatment of maintenance payments for taxation purposes it must first be established if the maintenance payments are legally enforceable or if the payments are on a voluntary basis.

Voluntary maintenance paid on the basis of an informal arrangement between former part- 218 11 July 2017 ners would not be legally enforceable. Such payments are not chargeable as income for taxation purposes in the hands of the recipient and the individual making the payments cannot claim a deduction for the amounts paid.

Maintenance which is payable under a legally enforceable maintenance agreement, for example payments under a Deed of Separation, Divorce Settlement or under the Civil Partnership and Certain Rights and Obligations of Cohabitants Act 2010, is chargeable as income in the hands of the recipient for tax purposes. The person making the payments is allowed, in computing his or her total income for tax purposes, a deduction for the maintenance payments made in the year of assessment for the benefit of the other spouse, civil partner or qualified cohabitant. Sections 1025 (married persons), 1031J (civil partners) and 1031Q (cohabitants) of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 contain the relevant provisions.

Only maintenance payments made for the benefit of the other spouse or civil partner qualify for tax relief. Maintenance payments in respect of children are not taxable in the hands of the children or the receiving partner and the parent making the payments cannot claim a deduction for the amounts paid. This is the case regardless of whether the payments are made voluntarily or under a legally binding maintenance arrangement. The effect of this is that the payments are treated in the same way as if the taxpayer was providing for the child out of his or her after-tax income. This is in line with the tax treatment of all other parents, where the cost of maintaining their children is not tax deductible.

11/07/2017WRH03800Help-To-Buy Scheme

11/07/2017WRH03900142. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Finance if he will address a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32432/17]

11/07/2017WRH04000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy may be aware, during the Committee Stage debate on Finance Bill 2016, my predecessor agreed to commission an independent impact assessment on the effects of the Help to Buy incentive for completion prior to Budget 2018. Following a competitive tender process, Indecon Economic Consultants were appointed in April to undertake this assessment.

This purpose of the project, in general, is to assess whether the policy objectives on the supply of new homes are being met, what impact (if any) the scheme is having on new and second-hand house prices, and what impact the scheme is having on the residential property market generally.

Once received from Indecon, the contents and findings of the report will be considered and I will decide on any appropriate action(s) to take in relation to its findings, in the context of my deliberations as part of the annual budgetary process.

I would take this opportunity to reassure members of the public who may be in the process of applying for the Help to Buy incentive, or those who currently have applications pending, that speculation concerning its abolition will not impact negatively on their applications. I would propose to signal well in advance, any proposed changes to the incentive following my consideration of the Indecon report.

11/07/2017WRH04100Social and Affordable Housing Provision

11/07/2017WRH04200143. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Finance the impact on the expenditure

219 Questions - Written Answers benchmark and expenditure ceilings for 2018 and each subsequent year arising from an increase in local government borrowing of €100 million to €500 million, respectively, in 2018 for the purposes of the provision of affordable housing. [32490/17]

11/07/2017WRH04300144. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Finance the impact on the Government debt and the Government’s agreed debt reduction targets as required under the stability and growth pact and fiscal treaty rules for 2018 and each subsequent year arising from an increase in local government borrowing of €100 million to €500 million respectively in 2018 for the purposes of the provision of affordable housing. [32491/17]

11/07/2017WRH04400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 144 together.

The Government must ensure that budgetary policy is in compliance with the fiscal rules – formally known as the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) – which have direct application through a number of EU regulations as well as domestically via the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2012. These rules are designed to ensure budgetary discipline and underpin sustainable economic growth.

Any expenditure funded by borrowing, regardless of the source, is treated exactly the same as any other expenditure and, therefore, be undertaken in a manner consistent with the fiscal rules. Therefore, should local government request government approval to increase levels of borrowing in order to facilitate the provision of affordable housing, any spending of these borrowed funds will reduce available fiscal space.

Furthermore, the Deputy should also be aware that any decision to increase capital expenditure over and above already planned levels would need to balance the danger of potentially over-heating in the economy with the need to address infrastructure priorities and risks such as Brexit.

The debt correction rule states that any general government debt in excess of 60 per cent of GDP should be reduced according to a formula that requires a 1/20th reduction of the excess over 60 per cent per year. Even leaving aside the debt rule, our outstanding debt is over €200 billion and, on a per capita basis, is amongst the highest in the developed world. It is imperative, therefore, that we do not add to public debt.

The most recent estimates for General Government debt were set out in the 2017 Stability Programme Update (SPU) published in April. The impact of an increase of both €100m and €500m in local government borrowing on General Government debt is set out in the table (note that rounding can affect totals).

General Government Debt (€ billions) 2018 2019 2020 2021 Debt as per SPU 209.8 214.1 209.7 210.9 2017 €100m increase 209.9 214.2 209.8 211.0 €500m increase 210.3 214.6 210.2 211.4 General Gov- ernment Debt to GDP Ratio Debt as per SPU 71.2 69.5 65.2 62.9 2017 €100m increase 71.2 69.5 65.2 63.0 220 11 July 2017 General Government Debt (€ billions) 2018 2019 2020 2021 €500m increase 71.4 69.6 65.4 63.0

11/07/2017WRH04600Stamp Duty

11/07/2017WRH04700145. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 231 of 20 June 2017, if he will address the anomaly that has arisen whereby a number of persons sharing accommodation in circumstances in which the aggregate rent for that accommodation is in excess of €2,500 per month are liable for a 1% levy; if he will abolish this levy in respect of tenants sharing a rented property or otherwise address this anomaly in view of escalating rents and the need for persons to share accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32522/17]

11/07/2017WRH04800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): My predecessor’s reply to Deputy Mur- phy’s Parliamentary Question number 231 of 20 June 2017 (alternatively numbered 26932/17) set out the stamp duty treatment that applies to leases of residential property. The Deputy has now asked about the 1% stamp duty charge where a lease exceeds 35 years, or is for an indefinite term, and where the rent exceeds €30,000 per annum (or €2,500 per month). As stated in the previous reply, where a lease is for an indefinite term, it is treated as a lease for a deemed fixed period of one year, with the lease growing each year by a further year.

The Deputy refers to an anomaly whereby the stamp duty charge applies in situations where a number of persons share a residential property with each of them contributing to the overall rent. I am advised by Revenue that there is no anomaly in such a situation and that the Stamp Duties Consolidation Act 1999 provides for this situation. Section 1 of this Act makes a lessee (i.e. a tenant) the accountable person for the stamp duty charge and section 2 provides for a situation where there is more than a single accountable person by making each accountable person jointly and severally liable for the stamp duty charge. The 1% stamp duty charge is levied in relation to a lease and not in relation to an individual lessee. Similarly, in relation to the purchase of a residential property, the same stamp duty charge applies regardless of the number of people involved in the purchase.

I have no plans to change the basis of liability to stamp duty on leases.

11/07/2017WRJ00200Help-To-Buy Scheme

11/07/2017WRJ00300146. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated impact on the 2018 fiscal space of abolishing the help to buy scheme. [32543/17]

11/07/2017WRJ00400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): At the time of Budget 2017, it was estimated that the Help-to-Buy incentive cost €50 million in 2017 and €40 million in a full year. Therefore, it would be expected that approximately €40 million in fiscal space per annum will accrue when the scheme ends.

My predecessor agreed to commission an independent impact assessment on the effects of the Help to Buy incentive for completion prior to Budget 2018. Following a competitive tender process, Indecon Economic Consultants were appointed in April to undertake this assessment.

This purpose of the project, in general, is to assess whether the policy objectives on the supply of new homes are being met, what impact (if any) the scheme is having on new and

221 Questions - Written Answers second-hand house prices, and what impact the scheme is having on the residential property market generally.

Finally, I would like to reassure members of the public who may be in the process of applying for the Help to Buy incentive, or those who currently have applications pending, that speculation concerning its abolition will not impact negatively on their applications. I would propose to signal well in advance, any proposed changes to the incentive following my consideration of the Indecon report.

11/07/2017WRJ00500Tax Data

11/07/2017WRJ00600147. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the expected revenue from ending the capital gains tax exemption from the sale of property held within REITs. [32544/17]

11/07/2017WRJ00700149. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the expected revenue from introducing a minimum DWT rate of 25% on all dividends paid by REITs. [32546/17]

11/07/2017WRJ00800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 147 and 149 together.

I am informed by Revenue that as a result of the low number of REITs established under Irish Law (part 25A of TCA 1997, as amended), they are unable to provide this information due to their obligation to preserve the confidentiality of taxpayer information.

Additionally, information in respect of potential future capital gains from the sale of property of REITs is not available to enable an accurate estimate of the potential gain from the ending of the exemption to be provided. It is also worth noting that REITs are specifically designed to focus on the long-term holding of income producing property. They are not designed to hold development activities, or as a vehicle for short term speculative gains.

11/07/2017WRJ00900Tax Data

11/07/2017WRJ01000148. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the expected revenue from ending the DWT exemption for non-resident IREF shareholders from dividends related to the sale of property held within an IREF for five years. [32545/17]

11/07/2017WRJ01100150. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the expected revenue from introducing a minimum DWT rate of 25% on all dividends paid by IREFs. [32547/17]

11/07/2017WRJ01200Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 150 together.

Section 23 of the 2016 Finance Act introduced the Irish Real Estate Fund legislation(IREF) to address concerns regarding the use of funds in Irish property based transactions.

The IREF legislation was the subject of lengthy discussions at both Committee and Report stages of Finance Bill 2016, during which it was emphasised that the IREF legislation will trigger behavioural changes which cannot be predicted.

222 11 July 2017 This position still stands and therefore data in respect of potential revenue related to ending the exemption from IREF withholding tax for non resident IREF shareholders, from dividends related to the sale of property held within an IREF for five years, is not available.

Furthermore, to estimate the yield from this amendment into the future requires predicting changes in property prices. That, coupled with the behavioural changes, mean it would be premature for the Department or Revenue to predict the expected revenue from introducing a minimum rate of 25% IREF withholding tax at this point.

Question No. 149 answered with Question No. 147.

Question No. 150 answered with Question No. 148.

Questions Nos. 151 to 153, inclusive, answered with Question No. 140.

Living Wage Expenditure

11/07/2017WRJ01900154. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32562/17]

11/07/2017WRJ02000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I wish to inform the Deputy that the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 per hour for all employees directly employed by my Department would be €20,133.89 annually.

With regard to the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 per hour for all employees in agencies funded by my department, the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal is the only body funded by my Department and there would be no additional cost to that organisation if they implemented a living wage of €11.70 per hour for all employees.

11/07/2017WRJ02100Illicit Trade in Fuel and Tobacco Products

11/07/2017WRJ02200155. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance his plans to introduce new measures to deal with the smuggling of illicit fuel and tobacco products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32570/17]

11/07/2017WRJ02300156. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance his plans to introduce additional measures in co-operation with the authorities in Northern Ireland and Britain to deal with the illegal trade in some fuel and tobacco products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32571/17]

11/07/2017WRJ02400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 155 and 156 together.

The serious threat that fuel fraud and the illicit tobacco trade pose to legitimate business, to consumers and the Exchequer is recognised and I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that tackling this criminal activity has been one of their priorities over recent years.

Revenue’s comprehensive strategy for combatting the illegal fuel trade has included the introduction of stringent supply chain controls and reporting requirements for fuel transactions, to minimise the scope for fraud. It also included a rigorous programme of enforcement action, underpinned by legislative changes that have been introduced over a number of Finance Acts to

223 Questions - Written Answers strengthen Revenue’s powers for dealing with this kind of fraud. In addition, Revenue and HM Revenue and Customs in the United Kingdom undertook a joint initiative to find a new fiscal marker for use in marked fuels, which was introduced in Ireland and the United Kingdom from the beginning of April 2015.

I understand that the industry view is that the measures implemented to date have been successful in significantly curtailing fuel fraud in Ireland. This view is supported by a significant increase in tax revenues from road diesel over the past three years of the order of €230m. I am also advised that Revenue conducted a National Random Sampling Programme in January 2016, with a view to obtaining an updated picture of the extent of the fuel laundering problem. The programme involved selecting a random sample comprising nearly one in every ten of the 2,500 holders of Auto Fuel Trader Licences (any trader that produces, sells, deals in, or keeps for sale or delivery road diesel is legally obliged to hold such a licence). Road diesel samples were taken from all traders in the programme and tested for the presence of the new marker. No evidence of the new marker was found in any of the samples tested. The random sampling programme was repeated in January 2017 and, again, no evidence of the marker was found. This provides very persuasive evidence that the strategy undertaken in recent years has been successful in addressing and significantly curtailing the laundering problem.

Action is taken against all aspects of the illegal tobacco trade and includes a range of measures to identify and target persons engaged in the supply or sale of illicit products, with a view to seizing the illicit products and prosecuting those involved. Revenue’s multifaceted strategy encompasses ongoing analysis of the nature and extent of the problem, extensive cooperation (including the development and sharing of intelligence) on a national, EU and international basis, use of analytics and detection technologies and optimising the deployment of resources.

A combination of risk analysis, profiling and intelligence and the risk based screening of cargo, vehicles, baggage and postal packages contribute to the effectiveness of Revenue’s goal of intercepting the supply of illicit tobacco products. Revenue also targets the illicit trade in tobacco at post-importation level by carrying out intelligence-based operations and random checks at retail outlets, markets and private and commercial premises.

In addition, and as in the case of fuel, action has been taken through Finance Acts over recent years to ensure that Revenue has the statutory powers necessary for undertaking its important work against the illegal tobacco trade.

In assessing the overall effectiveness in tackling the illegal tobacco trade, a reliable measure is provided by the annual surveys of illegal tobacco products carried out by IPSOS/MRBI for Revenue and the National Tobacco Control Office of the Health Services Executive. The survey in 2016 found that 10% of cigarette packs encountered in the course of the project were illicit down from the levels of 15% and 13% found in 2011 and 2102 respectively.

Revenue works closely with an An Garda Síochána in acting against fuel and tobacco fraud, and the relevant authorities in the State also work closely with their counterparts in Northern Ireland, through cross-border enforcement groups, to target the organised crime groups responsible for a large proportion of this criminal activity. This work is being supported and facilitated by the setting up in 2016, in the framework of “A Fresh Start: the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan”, of a Joint Agency Task Force, which includes Revenue as well as An Garda Síochána and their Northern Ireland counterparts. Revenue also works in close cooperation with the relevant authorities in other jurisdictions, the European Anti-Fraud Office and other international bodies and agencies in the ongoing programmes of action at international level to combat both the illicit fuel and tobacco trades.

I am satisfied that Revenue’s work against fuel fraud and the illicit tobacco trade has achieved 224 11 July 2017 a considerable level of success, and I am assured that action in these areas will continue to be a high priority. In addition, I can say to the Deputy that I will give careful consideration to any further proposals for legislative change that may be brought forward by Revenue to enhance the capacity to deal effectively with fraud and criminality in these areas.

11/07/2017WRJ02600Banking Sector Regulation

11/07/2017WRJ02700157. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Finance the process in place to prevent a monopoly by one or two Irish banks in the retail banking sector. [32584/17]

11/07/2017WRJ02800Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Programme for Partnership Gov- ernment places consumers at the centre of the Government’s banking sector policies by focus- ing on the strengthening of consumers’ rights and knowledge, and fostering greater competition in credit provision through supporting non-bank credit providers and reducing the State’s ownership of the banking system.

Statutory bodies play an important role in achieving these Government objectives. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has a dual mandate to enforce competition and consumer protection law in Ireland. Its mission is to make markets work better for consumers and businesses. A key aspect of consumer protection in relation to retail banking is ensuring that institutions are not abusing their market power and that competition is protected and enhanced in the long term interests of consumers. In that context, the CCPC recently published an in depth review of the residential mortgage market and set out a number of short, medium and long term options which could allow for greater competition from new entrants in the mortgage market, and could also encourage lenders to compete more vigorously on price, quality and innovation.

Furthermore, commercial banks are not the only option available to retail consumers. For example, the credit union sector offers sources of credit for the mutual benefit of its members at a fair and reasonable rate of interest.

The State is also promoting alternative ‘non-bank’ financing solutions in order to encourage competition in the banking sector. While this is initially focused on the SME sector, the increased competition will lead to improvements in the financial sector overall. In this regard, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) is Ireland’s National Promotional Institu- tion for SMEs, with a strategic mission to deliver effective financial supports to Irish SMEs that address failures in the Irish credit market.

The SBCI began lending in March 2015. To the end of March 2017, the SBCI has lent out €657 million to nearly 15,300 SMEs supporting the employment of over 67,000 people. SMEs in all sectors of the Irish economy benefit from SBCI finance through has three bank and five non-bank on-lenders. Most of the SMEs supported by the SBCI are based in all regions of the country, with 85% of them outside Dublin.

The SBCI is working to develop a more diverse range of on-lenders and innovative products to meet the evolving requirements of the SME finance market and contribute to a sustainable and competitive economy.

Moreover, the recent disposal by the State of 28.8% of its shareholding in AIB will not only help reduce our elevated national debt but, I believe, can also foster further competition in the Irish banking market, by removing any perception of State interference that might dissuade new entrants. This is a view that has also been highlighted by the CCPC in their recent ‘Options for Ireland’s Mortgage Market’ paper, in which they highlighted that the clear policy position as 225 Questions - Written Answers regards the sale of the State’s shareholdings in AIB has, “…also given a large degree of confidence to international investors and potential new entrants, who might otherwise have viewed State ownership as a real barrier to entry.”

The Central Bank is also playing an important role in protecting consumers, as identified in the Bank’s mission statement of ‘Safeguard Stability, Protect Consumers’. Since the wide- spread reforms that took place following the financial crisis, Ireland is now widely recognised as having a well regulated financial services sector, an important pillar underpinning the sound- ness of the banking sector and which is necessary to foster greater competition.

The Consumer Protection Directorate aims to deliver on its consumer protection mandate in the context of three important desired consumer protection outcomes:

- a positive consumer-focused culture that is embedded and demonstrated within all firms;

- a consumer protection framework that is fit for purpose and ensures that consumers’ best interests are protected; and

- regulated firms that are fully compliant with their obligations and are treating their customers, existing and new, in a fair and transparent way.

This framework puts the consumer at its centre, where the focus of firms must be on delivering positive consumer outcomes within a regulatory framework that is fit for purpose.

11/07/2017WRJ02900Banking Sector Data

11/07/2017WRJ03000158. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Finance the percentage of annual turnover nationally transacted by a bank (details supplied). [32585/17]

11/07/2017WRJ03100Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): All information in relation to AIB’s financial performance is contained within the bank’s annual report. The AIB annual report for 2016 can be found at the following link:

https://aib.ie/content/dam/aib/investorrelations/docs/resultscentre/annualreport/annual-financial-report-2016.pdf

I would draw the Deputy’s attention to page 24 in particular which sets out the bank’s Sum- mary Income Statement for 2016 with a 2015 comparative.

11/07/2017WRJ03200Banking Sector Data

11/07/2017WRJ03300159. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Finance the percentage of annual turnover nationally transacted by a bank (details supplied). [32586/17]

11/07/2017WRJ03400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): All information in relation to Bank of Ireland’s financial performance is contained within the bank’s annual report. The Bank of Ire- land annual report for 2016 can be found at the following link:

https://investorrelations.bankofireland.com//wp-content/assets/BOI-Annual-Report-2016. pdf

I would draw the Deputy’s attention to page 187 in particular which sets out the bank’s income statement for 2016 with a 2015 comparative. 226 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRJ03500Official Engagements

11/07/2017WRJ03600160. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance his plans to meet the US Treasury Secretary, Mr. Steven Mnuchin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32593/17]

11/07/2017WRJ03700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): My predecessor as Minister for Fi- nance, Mr Michael Noonan T.D., had planned to meet with US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin in April 2017 during his visit to Washington, D.C. for the Spring Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund. Unfortunately, it was not possible to schedule a bilateral meeting with Secretary Mnuchin on that occasion.

In my new role as Minister for Finance, I intend to engage in a programme of working visits overseas. This will include a visit to the United States during which I hope to schedule a meeting with my counterpart, Secretary Mnuchin.

11/07/2017WRK00200Help-To-Buy Scheme Administration

11/07/2017WRK00300161. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Finance the procedures in place under the help to buy scheme when the awarding contractor has been given money or grants on behalf of the applicant in order that the applicant can be refunded the money or take it in credit with regard to the deposit; the protections in place in those circumstances in the event of the awarded contractor receiving money for the grant and then being unable to pay the applicant or give credit on the deposit, becoming insolvent, taken under receivership or closure of business. [32609/17]

11/07/2017WRK00400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As the Deputy will be aware, the purpose of the Help to Buy (HTB) incentive is to help first-time buyers fund their first home, whether purchased from a builder or self-built. The legislative provisions for HTB are set out in Section 477C Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. Those provisions include the following:

- the obligation on contractors that receive a payment in respect of a claimant to ‘treat the appropriate payment as a credit against the purchase price of the qualifying residence’ (section 16b);

- the conditions to ensure that eligibility for the HTB refund is maintained for 5 years (section 17);

- the obligation to repay a HTB payment to Revenue where a claimant or contractor (as appropriate) is unable to meet any of the HTB conditions, which include that the qualifying residence is to be purchased within 2 years (section 18); and

- that Revenue can raise an assessment on a claimant or contractor (as appropriate) where a HTB payment is not repaid to Revenue (section 20).

Consequently, there is an obligation on any qualifying contractor, in receipt of HTB payments to their bank account in respect of house purchases in the period from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2019, to

1. provide a house for the HTB claimant within 2 years, and

2. give the HTB claimant credit for the value of the HTB payment received from Revenue as part of their deposit.

227 Questions - Written Answers Regarding the safeguards in place to protect the Exchequer from contractors who fail to meet the conditions of the HTB incentive; In the first instance all qualifying contractors must hold a tax clearance certificate to certify that they are fully tax compliant, and they must also meet all of the requirements of Relevant Contracts Tax. In addition, if a qualifying contractor is unable to provide a house for the HTB claimant, then he, she or it is required to refund the HTB payment received to Revenue. If the payment is not refunded, Revenue can raise an assessment. If the assessment is unpaid, the amount of the refund and any interest thereon constitutes a charge on the contractor’s freehold or leasehold estate or interest in the land on which the qualifying residence was to be built and remains so until it is fully paid.

I am advised that Revenue provides a range of information about the operation of the HTB incentive on their website, including detailed applicant and contractor guides. Furthermore, Revenue has been involved in discussions and meetings with various stakeholders about the operational procedures for HTB, including the Construction Industry Federation and the Law Society. In these discussions, Revenue highlighted, in particular, the obligations on contractors to provide the first home for the HTB claimant within two years or that there would be a claw- back of the HTB payments made.

I am further advised that, as part of its overall administration of the HTB incentive, Revenue is operating risk based compliance checks to ensure that the qualifying conditions of the scheme are met by qualifying contractors and claimants.

11/07/2017WRK00500Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRK00600162. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32651/17]

11/07/2017WRK00700Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The total costs for my department, and the details of the events, campaigns, or policies to which the expenditure related are outlined in a table:

Photography Year Supplier Expenditure € Event, Campaign, or Policy 2017 Sherwood photogra- 758 Department of phy Finance graduation ceremony for in- house Diplomas and the Refund of Fees attended by Minister Noonan 2016 Brendan Lyon Pho- 105 Irish Institute of tography Training and De- velopment (IITD) award photo

228 11 July 2017 2015 Maxwell Photogra- 463 Department of Fi- phy Ltd nance Learning and Development Rec- ognition of Awards Ceremony, attended by Minister Noonan 2015 Events Portraits Ltd 96 Irish Institute of Training and De- velopment (IITD) award to Department of Finance for “Best Learning and Devel- opment Organisa- tion” 2014 Maxwell Photogra- 511 Department of phy Ltd Finance graduation ceremony for the Diploma in Taxation Policy and Practice, the Diploma in Proj- ect Management, and the Refund of Fees attended by Minister Noonan 2012 Maxwell Photogra- 285 Signing ceremony phy Ltd for Double Taxa- tion Agreement with Switzerland: Min- ister of State Hayes and the Swiss Am- bassador 2012 Maxwell Photogra- 148 Signing ceremony phy Ltd for Double Taxa- tion Agreement with Uzbekistan Advertising Year Supplier Expenditure € Event, Campaign, or Policy 2017 The Irish Times 922 To communicate the new beneficial ownership obligations of S.I. 560 of 2016 to companies, particularly those companies who were not on the Company Registration Office’s mailing list

229 Questions - Written Answers 2017 Independent News- 1,111 To communicate papers marketing the new beneficial ownership obligations of S.I. 560 of 2016 to companies, particularly those companies who were not on the Company Registration Office’s mailing list 2017 The Irish Examiner 375 To communicate the new beneficial ownership obligations of S.I. 560 of 2016 to companies, particularly those companies who were not on the Company Registration Office’s mailing list 2015 Mediavest 7,182 Local Property Tax Review advertisements in Irish Times, Irish Independent and Irish Examiner 2015 Financial Times 12,300 Advertisement for the position of Gov- ernor of the Central Bank 2014 Mediavest 130 Notice re winding up of SAT/ICAROM (Insurance Corpora- tion of Ireland) in Irish Daily Mail 2014 Public Appointments 2,787 Recruitment for the Service position of Head of International & EU Division in the Sun- day Business Post and Sunday Times online 2013 Public Appointments 5,206 Recruitment of Chief Service Finance and Op- erations Officer in Sunday Times, Sun- day Business Post, ACCA and ACA e-zine

230 11 July 2017 2013 Public Appointments 3,796 Recruitment for po- Service sition of Economist – advert in the Irish Times 2013 Brindley Advertising 687 Notices of the Of- ficial Languages Act and Scheme in Foinse 2012 Public Appointments 33,168 Recruitment of Chief Service Economist, Head of Banking Policy and Secretary General of the Department of Finance in the Sun- day Times, Sunday Business Post, Irish Times and Financial Times 2012 Brindley Advertising 14,255 Notices/Advertise- ments re Anglo, INBS and Credit Institutions Stabilisa- tion Act as required by EU Directive in Irish media (Irish Times and Irish Ex- aminer) Communications Public Relations , Media interview and preparation advice training Year Supplier Expenditure € Event, Campaign, or Policy

231 Questions - Written Answers 2017 & 2016 Language Commu- Net cost zero as As part of a range nications Ltd costs being refunded of competition by the banks. measures agreed with the European Commission under their respective EU- Restructuring plans, AIB and Permanent TSB are required to provide funding to a public awareness campaign (such campaign to be facilitated by Ireland through an appropriate state body) to raise awareness and promote customer switching. As such the department is 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 refunded in its entirety by the two banks.

232 11 July 2017 2016 Carr Communica- 63,224 Following the Gov- tions ernment decision of 13 May 2015 on mortgage arrears, the department was asked to coordinate the development and implementation 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. Re- sponsibility for the mortgage arrears publicity campaign now rests with the Abhaile Mortgage Arrears Resolution Service. 2015 ICAN Ltd 50,519 Under the Action Plan for Jobs 2015, action 110 required an “advertising campaign to leverage support for and drive utilisation of the Supporting SMEs Online Tool and increase awareness of the existence of State supports for business.” This advertising campaign was co-ordinated by the SME Communica- tions Group a subgroup of the SME State Bodies Group which is chaired by the department.

233 Questions - Written Answers 2015 Carr Communica- 35,038 Following the Gov- tions ernment decision of 13 May 2015 on mortgage arrears, the department was asked to coordinate the development and implementation 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. Re- sponsibility for the mortgage arrears publicity campaign now rests with the Abhaile Mortgage Arrears Resolution Service. 2014 ICAN Ltd 27,684 Creative strategy, production and burst 1 of campaign to increase awareness of the Supporting SME online tool on social media Website Develop- ment Year Supplier Expenditure € Event, Campaign, or Policy 2015 Strata 3 3,690 Testing and review of website 2014 Strata 3 9,255 MTES Placeholder site 2014 Strata 3 16,167 Live implementation of website 2013 Strata 3 24,823 Design of Website and CMS With respect to the eighteen bodies under the aegis of my Department, I have been advised that four have not incurred any expenditure for each of the past five years on items identified by the Deputy. These are the Credit Union Advisory Committee, the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, the Financial Services Ombudsman Council and the Irish Financial Services Appeals Tribunal.

234 11 July 2017 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 twelve bodies have provided the information sought and this is set out in a further table.

Table ctg.

Body Expenditure, events, campaigns, policies Company/person Comptroller Advertising:2012:€2,245.36 Senior Audi- Public Appointments Ser- & Auditor tor competition 2013:€3,095.01 Job adver- viceEducate Limited Irish General tisement2014: €600.00 Job advertisement Jobs.ie Educate Limited 2017: (to end of June)€4,305 Advertising Linked inPtools software budgetWebsite development:2017: (to end of June) €5,305.91 Website Development Credit Review Advertising Communications Ad- AshvilleThe PhoenixiCa- Office vice:2013:€5,123 €1,599€170,7712014:€3 nAshvilleThe Phoenixi- ,690€1,599€235,048€6852015:€1,224€1,5 CanSnap 30AshvilleThe 99€275,104€3,695€1,666 2016:€15,363€3, PhoenixiCanSmall Firms 198€132,121€1782017:€2,460€1,599€116, AssociationRGDATAAsh- 841None of these costs are related to a spe- villeThe PhoenixiCanIm- cific campaign, but in raising awareness of age SolutionsAshvilleThe the Credit Review Office to target audience PhoenixiCan through the media. Credit Union Photography:(Photography was in virtually all cases MaxwellMaxwellMax- coinciding with the completion of a formal merg- Restructuring er process)2013:€ 590.402014:€ 1,266.902015:€ wellMaxwellBartlomiej Board (ReBo) 3,868.352016:€442.80€4402017:€150Public Relations: (train- SzykBartlomiej SzykThe ing)(PR advice / training concerned the initial launch of the organisation and also some further general assistance / advice Communications ClinicThe on matters within the remit of ReBo – there was no campaign as Communications Clinic such.)2015:€ 12,5472017:€ 15,920 Financial Photography:2012:€150 Annual Report & Web- Des McMahon Photogra- Services site2013€240 Annual Report & Website2014:€120 phyDes McMahon Pho- Ombudsman Annual Report & Website2015:€120 Annual Report tographyDes McMahon & Website2016€418 Annual Report & WebsiteAd- Bureau vertising:2012:€394 IPA Diary€8,710 Phone- PhotographyDes McMahon book, State Directory, Internet Listing2013:€394 PhotographyFennell Pho- IPA Diary€8,105 Phonebook, State Directory, tographyIPAFCR Media Internet Listing2014:€8,104 Phonebook, State Di- LtdIPAFCR Media LtdFCR rectory, Internet Listing2015:€394 IPA Diary€8,104 Media LtdIPAFCR Media Phonebook, State Directory, Internet Listing€1,830 Recruitment Advert2016:€197 IPA Diary€10,086 LtdMedia VestIPAFCR Phonebook, State Directory, Internet Listing€ Media LtdMedia VestMe- 3,019 Recruitment Advert€ 1,622 Recruitment dia VestIPAFCR Media Advert2017:€134 IPA Diary€7,789 Phonebook, LtdMedia VestKeating State Directory, Internet Listing€5,001 Recruit- & AssociatesKeating & ment Advert Communications Advice:2015:€2,091 Communication Support & Advice2016:€7,232 AssociatesKeating & As- Communication Support & Advice2017:€2,405 sociatesKeating & Associ- Communication Support & AdvicePublic Rela- atesKeating & AssociatesFu- tions:2015:€5,123 PR Consultancy2017:€3,137 PR sio LtdFusio Ltd ConsultancyWebsite Development:2013:€5,166 Redesign of website2014:€6,593 Design online complaint form

235 Questions - Written Answers Body Expenditure, events, campaigns, policies Company/person Investor Photography:2012:€273.52 Board director portrait(s) for Fennell PhotographyFennell annual report2013:€144.87 Board director portrait(s) for Compensation annual report2014:€289.74 Board director portrait(s) for an- PhotographyFennell Photog- Company nual report2015:€463.11 Board director portrait(s) for an- raphyFennell Photography- nual report2016:€307.50 Board director portrait(s) for annual reportAdvertising:2012:€23,800.67 National Press adverts for Fennell PhotographyBrind- the failures of Custom House Capital Limited and Bloxham ley AdvertisingBrindley Stockbrokers as required by s.32(1)(ii) of Investor Compensation Act, 19982013:€8,237.33 National Press adverts for the failure AdvertisingBrindley Adver- of Irish Bank Resolution Corporation Limited as required by tisingBrindley Advertising- s.32(1)(ii) of Investor Compensation Act, 19982014:€3,684.98 National Press adverts for the failure of Berehaven Credit Union Brindley AdvertisingDragnet Limited as required by s.32(1)(ii) of Investor Compensation Systems LimitedWebtrade Act, 19982016:€3,836.26 National Press adverts for the failure of Asset Management Trust Limited as required by s.32(1)(ii) LimitedWebtrade Limited- of Investor Compensation Act, 19982017: €3,459.57 National Webtrade LimitedWebtrade Press adverts for the failure of Rush Credit Union as required by s.32(1)(ii) of Investor Compensation Act, 1998Website LimitedCarr Communica- Development:2013:€2,269.35 Online e-invoice and dd sign-up tions Limited portal2014:€15,928.50 Redevelopment of website with customer account management portal2015:€1,353.00 Routine enhance- ments2016:€492.00 Companies Act, 2014 necessitated enhance- ments2017:€6,150.00 Enhancements to customer management portal of website (incl. for GDPR purposes)Interview training and preparation:2012:€450.00 Media Training for new CEO Irish Bank Communications advice:2013:€95,848.08 Media and Com- FTI consulting Ireland- munications advisory services€10,356.60 Design Layout for Resolution letterheads, customer letters etc. €49,200 Marketing consultancy Designbank LimitedTrue Corporation services €21,830.04 Media monitoring€7,150.13 Vari- Blue Communications ous2014:€109,662.50 Media and communications advisory services€18,290.10 Design Layout for letterheads, customer LtdKantar MediaOtherFTI letters etc€25,298.45 Media monitoring€13,132.03 Vari- consulting IrelandDesign- ous 2015:€94,513.20 Media and Communications advisory services€4,956.90 Design Layout for letterheads, customer bank LimitedKantar Me- letters etc:€6,294.58 Media monitoring:€9,909.67 Vari- diaOtherFTI consulting ous2016:€13,400 Media and Communications advisory ser- vices2017 (to date):€1,000 Media and Communications advisory IrelandDesignbank Limit- servicesPublic Relations:2014:€25,496.60 Advices on reports, edKantar MediaOtherFTI media queries etc2015:€45,775.46 Advices on reports, media queries etc:2016:€8,266.83 Advices on reports, media queries ConsultingFTI Consulting- etc2017 (to date):€221.40 Advices on reports, media queries Drury Porter NovelliDrury etcWebsite Development:2013:€7,380 Website hosting and amendments to website2014:€10,682.55 Website hosting and Porter NovelliDrury Porter amendments to website€7,318.50 Software licences for web- NovelliDrury Porter Novel- site:2015:€1,537.50 Website hosting and amendments to website €3,659.25 Software licences for website2016:€1,958.78 Web- liContinuum TechContinu- site hosting and amendments to website €10,977.75 Software um TechPT ToolsContinuum licences for website2017 (to date): €1,958.78 Website hosting and amendments to websiteNote: The information provided is TechPT ToolsContinuum for the period from 2013 (post liquidation) to date. Information TechPT ToolsContinuum prior to the appointment of the Special Liquidator in 2013 is not readily available and the compilation of this information would Tech incur a significant expense given that all legacy systems are no longer operational. Irish Fiscal Advertising:2013: €553.50 Job adver- GTI Media LtdWarwick Advisory tising 2015:€1,160.99 Job advertising UniversityGTI Media Lt- Council 2016:€3,003.02 Job advertising 2017 dInomicsIrish TimesInom- (to end of June): €349.00 Job advertising icsPeer Review Group Communications advice:2015:€2,429.48 members:Lars Jonung Iain (Peer Review) Begg Michael G Tutty

236 11 July 2017 Body Expenditure, events, campaigns, policies Company/person National Asset (NAMA’s communications team is sup- One Productions (W1 Management ported by an external service provider, Design)MediaworksOne Agency Gordon MRM, which provides a press Productions (W1 Design) office service to NAMA and to the NTMA. Stakeholders Communi- The costs for this external service will cationsAviva StadiumA- be included in the NTMA data. NAMA viva StadiumTibusSim- reimburses the NTMA in respect of the ply ZestyRoom Three costs of these services attributable to DesignTibusRoom Three NAMA.)Advertising:2012: €4,200 Ad- DesignRoom Three Design- vertising Leaflets €18,400 Advertising Communicraft in the Irish Times and Irish Independent re expressions of interest for “Project Wave2013:€1,000 Advertising Leaflets Public Relations:2012:€1,200 PR Con- sultancy2016:€1,300 SDZ/Residential delivery media briefing2017: € 857 An- nual report press release Website Develop- ment:2012:€3,300 Provision of website servers & licenses 2014:€4,800 Mainte- nance and development of NAMA website€18,600 Maintenance and development of NAMA website2015:€1,400 Provision of website servers & licenses€17,700 Maintenance and development of NAMA website2016:€4,700 Maintenance and development of NAMA website2017:€1,722 Maintenance of NAMA Website

237 Questions - Written Answers Body Expenditure, events, campaigns, policies Company/person Office of Photography:2012: €1,373.00 Photographic PRESS 22MAXWELL the Revenue Services 2017 to 30th June:€1,422 PHOTOGRA- PHOTOGRAPHY LT- Commission- PHY SERVICESAdvertising2012:€960,453 Media DBrindley Advertising Agency €49,571 State Directory €33,579 Leaflet ers Display Brochure Display 2013:€1,421,645 Media LtdFCR media LtdInform Agency €147,579 Advertising€49,571 State Display Systems LtdBrind- Directory2014:€1,406,538 Media Agency€49,571 ley Advertising LtdMediav- State Directory€35,068 Statutory Notices est Ireland LtdFCR media 2015:€781,990 Media Agency€49,571 State Di- LtdMediavest Ireland Ltd- rectory€39,356 Statutory Notices2016:€889,407 Media Agency€47,025 State Directory€42,804 FCR media LtdIris Oifigiúil- Leaflet Display Brochure Display2017 (to 30th Mediavest Ireland LtdFCR June):€519,643 Media Agency€ 22,162 State media LtdIris OifigiuilMedi- Directory€ 9,935 Media AgencyWebsite de- avest Ireland LtdFCR media velopment:2016:€888,414 Revenue.ie Website LtdInform Display Systems redesign €114,240 Website Content Management System software €34,043 Website survey soft- LtdMediavest Ireland Ltd- ware €24,700 Visible Thread2017: to 30th June:€ FCR media LtdMediawatch 29,292 Clarity Grader Software€ 24,773 MicroSoft LtdDeloitte & Version Azure Commitment€364,244 Revenue.ie Website 1Zengenti QualtricsClarity redesign - Information Architecture design, Search Grader SoftwareDeloitte, optimisation, screen template design & build, User experience & user interface design & build. Ac- Accenture & Version 1Vis- cessibility design & build. Software testingMedia ible ThreadCDW UKCarr interview training and preparation:2013:€10,100 CommunicationsCarr Media Interview Training 2015:€450 Media CommunicationsThe Com- Interview Training 2016:€22,632 Media Interview munications ClinicCarr Training2017 to 30th June :€1,625 Media Interview Training€492 Media Interview Training CommunicationsThe Com- munications Clinic Social Fi- Photography:2013:€159.90 Board Sherwood Photography- nance Foun- Photo2015:€461.25 Photos at launch of Tommy ClancyMaxwells dation ‘Credit not Debt’ report 2016:€362.85 PhotographyMontague Board meeting with Minister Noonan- PRQ4 PRMontague PRJohn Communications advice:2014:€11,193.00 GallagherJohn Gallagher Development of Communications and Marketing Strategy2015:€3,690.00 Launch of Annual Report and ongoing communications support€5,596.50 De- velopment of Communications and Mar- keting StrategyPublic Relations:2015:€ 17,378.20 Support for Personal Micro- Credit Project (PMC) and promotion of social finance2016:€34,255.50 Support for Personal MicroCredit Project (PMC) and promotion of social finance

238 11 July 2017 Body Expenditure, events, campaigns, policies Company/person Strategic Photography:2015: €180 SBCI Breakfast Conference Sheraton Molloy PhotographyBallywire Me- Athlone2016:€ 1,845 Bibby On-Lender Launch€ 430.50 2015 diaFennell PhotographyFennell Pho- Banking Cor- Annual Report Launch€ 184.50 Bibby On-Lender Launch€ tographyFennell PhotographyFennell poration of 553.50 Fexco On-Lender Launch€ 255.40 Event 25.02.16€ PhotographyFennell PhotographyFennell 123.00 Tom McAleese€ 698.20 SBCI event€ 553.50 Bank PhotographyFennell PhotographyAsh- Ireland briefingAdvertising:2015:€1,716 ISME Yearbook & Diary ville Media GroupChartered Accountants 2016€3,075 Annual conference 2015€9,225 Online portal - IrelandFund SME c/o Guru Expos & Guru Events€ 372 Taking Care of Business Event 2015€2,460 Events LtdHealth & Safety AuthorityIBEC Conference sponsorship€ 2,004.90 Ploughing Champion- LIMITEDIrish International Irish Interna- ship€ 28,739.00 SBCI launch event € 19,807.00 SBCI launch tional Irish International Irish International campaign ATL€ 818.00 SBCI business cards€ 910.00 SBCI Irish International Irish International Irish pull up banner€ 5,993.00 Radio phase 2€ 10,152.00 Launch International Irish InternationalIrish Inter- campaign RTE€ 10,762.00 SBCI research €221,368.00 Media nationalIrish internationalIrish internation- costs€1,624.00 Infographic for results announcement€ 2,041.80 alIrish internationalIrish internationalIrish SBCI DL leaflet€ 2,933.60 SBCI spider banners€ 4,647.90 internationalIrish internationalMespil Media costs - Google IRE€ 18,500.00 RTE phase 2 media€ SolutionsRGDATAThe Sales InstituteASH- 84,685.70 SBCI phase 2 media€ 855 All Ireland Business Sum- VILLE MEDIA GROUP LTDASHVILLE mit€ 2,979 RGDATA annual€ 2,500 Sales Institute event2016:€ MEDIA GROUP LTDASHVILLE MEDIA 3,013.50 ISME Yearbook & Diary 2017€ 4,858.50 Better Busi- GROUP LTDBallywire MediaBally- ness€ 3,628.50 Chambers€ 2,460.00 First Citizen agri product wire MediaBallywire MediaBallywire launch€ 922.50 SBCI 1 year anniversary video€ 2,767.50 SBCI MediaBerkely Research GroupBUSINESS case study€ 1,845.00 Fexco On-Lender Launch€ 2,300.00 PLUSCarlow Chamber of CommerceCas- Services to May 31st 2016€ 3,751.50 Business Plus – advert€ tletroy Hotel CHARTERED ACCOUN- 834.00 Hotel Hire and sponsorship€ 2,290.00 Castletroy park TANTS IRELAND Clarion HotelDublin event€ 3,075.00 Chartered Accountants Ireland Sponsorship€ Chamber of Commerce Dublin Chamber 280.00 Conference Clarion Cork€ 3,000.00 DCOC Business of CommerceFund SME c/o Guru Expos Breakfast € 1,500.00 Finance briefing 15.02.16€11,070.00 & Events LimitedHerizonIrish Internation- Online portal - Guru Event € 1,296.20 Herizon Event in RDS€ alIrish internationalIrish internationalIrish 2,189.40 Ploughing Championship€ 3,121.00 SBCI phase 2 me- internationalIrish internationalIrish inter- dia€ 1,605.20 Sunday business post€ 25,101.80 2016 planning€ nationalIrish internationalIrish internation- 535.10 SBCI infographic A5 leaflet€ 15,437.40 SBCI research alIrish internationalIrish internationalIrish groups€ 2,214.00 Additional research analysis€ 504.30 Dream internationalIrish internationalIrish inter- Small release€13,379.90 2016 Radio€ 2,287.80 Radio re-record nationalIrish internationalIrish internation- & new event€ 3,078.10 Social Media Pilot€ 5,676.50 Digital alIrish internationalIrish internationalIr- awareness campaign € 717.80 Media€ 2,091.00 DL Brochure ish internationalIrish internationalIrish -copy update€ 15,803.50 SBCI Media activity May - June€ internationalIrish internationalIrish inter- 68,711.00 May-June Activity - Media€ 1,697.40 Waterford radio nationalIrish internationalIrish interna- event€ 695.80 SBCI keyrings€ 15,034.30 Q4 Campaign Planning tionalIrish internationalIrish internation- & Development€ 3,025.00 SBCI key rings & pens€ 371.00 Far- alIrish internationalIrish internationalIrish bic display stand€ 3,720.80 SBCI Key Rings & Pens Re-Order€ internationalNetwork IrelandShannon 1,380.30 Digital & Social activity July & August€ 1,613.00 Chamber of CommerceShannon Chamber SBCI Fabric Display Stand€ 6,001.20 Digital & social activity of CommerceThe Irish Small and Medium Jul & Aug€ 246.00 SBCI Chamber Diary Advert€ 6,875.70 2017 Enterprises AssociationThe Irish Small Strategic Planning€ 2,244.80 Q4 planning analysis€ 66,094.20 and Medium Enterprises AssociationThe Radio & Digital€ 600.00 Kilashee House Hotel event € 2,000.00 Irish Small and Medium Enterprises As- Mid-West Funding for Business€ 289.70 Burratty Castle venue€ sociationThe Sunday Business PostThe 1,599.00 ISME National Conference€ 3,075.00 Conference Sunday Business PostWexford Chamber of sponsorship€ 399.80 Seminars General Sponsorship€ 4,821.60 CommerceWexford Chamber of Com- AD in special SME supplement - Money Plus € 1,808.10 An- merceWexford Chamber of Commerce- nual conference report€ 575.00 Wexford Business Expo 2016€ Whatswhat.ieWRCIrish InternationalIrish 123.00 Finance expo € 132.30 Business Expo 2016€ 1,230.00 InternationalPoint Blank DigitalRED DOG BizExpo – Citiwest€ 2,445.38 Ploughing ChampionshipWebsite DESIGN Development:2015:€ 10,531 Web Development€ 7,688 Web and content plan2016:€ 3,653.10 Website updates€ 8,769.90 Design Concepts & Web Development Tax Appeals Advertising:2016:€5,596.50 National MediavestWebtrade Ltd. Commission Newspaper AdvertsWebsite Develop- ment:2016:€7,448.57 Developed a website

11/07/2017WRK00800Tax Code

11/07/2017WRK00900163. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Finance his plans to introduce a soft drinks industry levy; if the funds raised will be ring-fenced to fund childhood anti-obesity measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32665/17]

11/07/2017WRK01000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): As outlined in Budget 2017, it is intended to introduce a tax on sugar sweetened drinks in April 2018, which will coincide with the introduction of a similar tax in the UK. 239 Questions - Written Answers A public consultation process opened on Budget night seeking the views of interested parties on the make up of the tax which ran until 3rd January 2017. Some 30 submissions were received, all of which are being considered and are also available to view on my Department’s website together with the public consultation document.

An implementation team, made up of officials from Revenue and my Department, continue to progress the development of the tax. The implementation team has had ongoing engagement with stakeholders, including representatives of the soft drinks industry, and I expect further details around the tax to be announced as part of Budget 2018.

In relation to ringfencing, I am generally not in favour of the hypothecation of taxes as it reduces the flexibility of the Government to prioritise and allocate funds as necessary at a particular time.

11/07/2017WRK01100Proposed Legislation

11/07/2017WRK01200164. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the likely publication date for the legislation required to give effect to EU Directive 2014/65/EU on markets in financial instruments MiFID II into law, in view of the fact that the official date for transposition of that directive into law was 3 July 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32767/17]

11/07/2017WRK01300Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The European Union’s cornerstone for financial markets legislation is the Market in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) which provides the framework for investment service providers. The original directive, MiFID I, has been updated and MiFID II was due to be transposed into Irish law by the 3rd of July.

MiFID II is voluminous and complex legislation and to date only one Member State has communicated full transposition measures to the European Commission. We, along with a number of other Member States, have not meet the transposition date of the 3rd of July for this Directive.

My officials are working closely with the Office of the Parliamentary Council and the Cen- tral Bank of Ireland to complete the work on the transposing regulations as quickly as possible. It is expected that the work on the transposing regulations will be completed in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, I intend to publish a Feedback Statement on the Public Consultation on national discretions in the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive in the coming days. This will publish the responses received to the Consultation, provide a summary of the responses to each of the questions posed and set out the decisions taken with regard to national discretions.

This will provide clarity to industry on the approaches we have taken on national discretions ahead of the publication of the MiFID transposing regulations in the coming weeks.

11/07/2017WRK01400Proposed Legislation

11/07/2017WRK01500165. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the likely publication date for the legislation required to give effect to EU Directive 2015/2366/EU PSD2; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32768/17]

11/07/2017WRK01600Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Directive (EU) 2015/2366 (PSD2) was published in the Official Journal of the European Union on 23 December 2015. PSD2 is a maxi- 240 11 July 2017 mum harmonisation directive, leaving only a small number of discretions for Member States.

The Department of Finance ran a public consultation on those national discretions from June to September last year. That consultation, along with the submissions received in response, can be found on the website of the Department.

Transposition of PSD2 is to be by way of statutory instrument under the European Com- munities Act 1972. The Department will continue to engage with stakeholders as the work on transposition progresses, and the transposition deadline of 13 January 2018 is expected to be met.

11/07/2017WRK01700Pension Provisions

11/07/2017WRK01800166. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding trivial pensions in which the amount invested is less than €20,000; if these can be cashed in; the rules in circumstances in which this fund is required by the person concerned for urgent purposes; the rules in circumstances in which the pension was taken out over 20 years ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32932/17]

11/07/2017WRK01900167. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding persons with small pension funds; the rules regarding the location in which a person can cash these in if the person is under 60 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32935/17]

11/07/2017WRK02000Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 166 and 167 together.

I am advised by Revenue that the commutation of small or trivial pensions is allowable in certain limited circumstances.

Where, on retirement and following the payment of any lump sum the total of all funds available for pension benefits is less than €20,000 Revenue will not object to the payment of a once off pension to an individual instead of the purchase of an annuity, once the agreement of the scheme beneficiaries and trustees has been received. The quantum of retirement benefits from all sources must be taken into account when calculating this €20,000 limit. The applicable rates of tax, USC and PRSI are those applicable to any other pension payment.

Full commutation is also permitted by Revenue on triviality grounds where, on retirement, the aggregate pension benefits payable to an employee under all schemes related to an employment do not exceed the value of €330 per annum. Tax on the chargeable part of such payments is at a rate of 10%, under Schedule D Case IV.

Both of these options are only available at a point where an individual is entitled to draw down benefits from a scheme, i.e. where they reach the retirement age set out in the conditions of their scheme, or are entitled to access benefits for other reasons, such as serious ill health.

Should an individual move their pension fund to another jurisdiction they may be subject to different draw down rules depending on the jurisdiction; however any transfer of pension funds offshore must be for bona fide reasons and must not contravene tax legislation or undermine pension tax policy.

Moving pension funds off-shore in an effort to circumvent the requirements of Irish pension tax legislation may fall foul of the conditions under which a pension scheme was approved by the Revenue Commissioners as an exempt approved scheme or the conditions under which a

241 Questions - Written Answers Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) product received Revenue approval. This could result in the withdrawal of the approval of an occupational pension scheme in accordance with the provisions of section 772(5) of the Taxes Consolidation Act (TCA) 1997 or the withdrawal of the approval of the PRSA product under section 787K (3) and (4) TCA 1997. Any such withdrawal of approval could trigger significant tax liabilities on the sums moved off shore and the withdrawal or claw back of tax reliefs. Moreover, in such cases and depending on the circumstances and the motivation of the individual concerned, the possibility also arises that such transactions may also fall foul of the legislation designed to counter tax avoidance transactions.

The essential feature of any pension policy is to provide income for an individual in retirement. The rationale for giving tax relief for contributions to various types of retirement products is to encourage savings over the long term so that individuals will have an income in old age. There are a number of reasons why pre-retirement access to benefits from pension plans or schemes is not permitted, the principal one being that these arrangements are designed to be long term savings vehicles based on the principle that the benefits will be maintained to help fund an adequate income in retirement.

Given that the correct treatment of a pension in situations such as this depends on the facts and circumstances of the case, if the Deputy has concerns regarding the fund of a particular individual it may be advisable to contact Revenue directly outlining the facts of the case to obtain a comprehensive answer on the available options.

11/07/2017WRK02200Sale of State Assets

11/07/2017WRK02300168. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Finance further to the recent sale of over 25% of the State’s equity in a bank (details supplied), the estimated costs involved; and the costs by the individual service providers engaged. [33080/17]

11/07/2017WRK02400Minister for Finance (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Deputy should be aware that in line with the State agreements with AIB, all fees incurred by the State in relation to an IPO transaction will be paid by the bank.

Following a successful transaction, fees are payable to the selling syndicate of investment banks and are proportionate to the value of the transaction. The fees that have been negotiated by my officials are approximately 0.4% of the value of the base deal size (€3 billion), which gives a figure of approximately €12 million. This is very competitive by reference to comparable transactions in Europe. The fee is split across all appointed syndicate banks and as such the number of firms involved (also within precedent), does not affect the overall fee level payable.

Fees will also be payable to our independent financial advisor, Rothschild & Sons, communications advisers Gordon MRM and Citigate Dewe Rogerson and our legal advisers, William Fry. Together with some other seller related and underwriter expenses, these fees in total were estimated to be approximately €4m. I will be in a position to disclose a breakdown of exact fees paid to each service provider when all related invoices have been received and processed.

As is normal practice, details of the fees paid by my Department to such parties are disclosed on an ongoing basis under the procurement section of the Department’s website: http:// www.finance.gov.ie/who-we-are/financials/consultancy/consultancy/

In addition to the above, AIB has also incurred its own fees and expenses in relation to the initial public offering which include broker, corporate advisory, accounting and legal fees. These fees and expenses amount to €25 million, are a matter for the board and management of AIB, and are borne by the company directly. Full details are disclosed as part of their published 242 11 July 2017 prospectus on p661. The prospectus is available on the AIB Investor Relations website at the following link: https://aib.ie/content/dam/aib/investorrelations/docs/protected/AIB-Prospec- tus-final-12062017.pdf

11/07/2017WRK02500Public Sector Pay

11/07/2017WRK02600169. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the pro rata increases given to all public servants in April 2017 will be given to those who retired after March 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32249/17]

11/07/2017WRK02700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to the €1,000 increase in 2017 applicable to public servants on annualised basic salaries up to €65,000 under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2015. This increase which, under FEMPI 2015, is to take effect from 1 September 2017, was advanced to 1 April 2017 for most qualifying public servants.

Increases to higher-value salaries above €65,000 on 1 April 2017, being part-restoration of the July 2013 pay cuts impacting such salaries, could not and did not have any effect on pensions in payment due to the grace period protection of such pensions under the FEMPI 2013 Act.

In that context, I would point out that section 6.2 of the proposed Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020, which was published at the conclusion of the public service pay talks, indicates that, over the duration of that agreement if ratified, policy on public service pensions in payment will be guided by the following three elements:

First, the need to adopt an equitable approach to the various public service pensioner cohorts differentiated by date of retirement (in particular pre and post end-February 2012) is affirmed.

Second, for those who retired or will retire post end-February 2012, to the extent that they retired on reduced salaries for pension award purposes, they will receive pension increases in line with pay increases received by their peers currently in employment in accordance with the terms of the collective agreement.

Third, when alignment is achieved between pre and post end-February 2012 pensioners, as will happen progressively for salary ranges up to €70,000 in 2020 under the proposed collective agreement, pay increases will continue to benefit pensions in payment for the duration of the agreement.

This means that for the duration of the proposed agreement, and subject to its ratification, public service pensions in payment will increase in line with pay increases where necessary to ensure that those pensions are equal to the pensions being awarded to same-grade retiring staff.

11/07/2017WRK02800Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRK02900170. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the actions his Department has taken to identify the hidden fiscal space to source savings across De- partments; the targeted savings each Department is expected to identify, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32373/17]

11/07/2017WRK03000Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Earlier this year I informed the Government of the new approach that will be taken to review current De- 243 Questions - Written Answers partmental expenditure in advance of Budget 2018. Due to the stabilising of the public finances by Government we have moved from a budgetary cycle where cuts had to be made to one where moderate and sustainable expenditure growth is now planned over the medium-term. However, there are increasing and competing public service demands emerging which means that public expenditure policy must prioritise additional spending between multiple demands. The spending review process supports this.

Officials in my Department have been engaged in work on Spending Review 2017 since January of this year. The Mid-Year Expenditure Report (MYER), which is to be published in the coming weeks, will include a substantive overview of this process. Alongside the MYER, a series of papers will be published that will present the results of the analysis of the wide range of expenditure schemes and programmes that have been examined this year. This 2017 Review is the first in a three-year cycle of ‘rolling’, selective reviews that will examine all day- to-day Departmental spending by 2019. This reflects a change in approach from the 2011 and 2014 Comprehensive Reviews of Expenditure, which covered all Government expenditure in a single year.

The Spending Review process operates within the wider budgetary architecture and the medium-term expenditure framework, which supports sustainable expenditure policy, anchored by reference to the fiscal rules. The major challenge addressed by the process is to prioritise between policy initiatives to ensure resources are allocated to areas where they can have the greatest impact, while respecting the necessary parameters set by the overall budgetary limits.

The aim of the Spending Review process is not to reduce Departmental expenditure, but rather to examine existing spending within the overall budget constraints by reference to the principles of efficiency, effectiveness, sustainability and impact. The Deputy will appreciate that the systematic and detailed examination of baseline expenditure using available evidence and data can help attenuate the tendency to otherwise focus only on the incremental increase in expenditure in the Estimates each year which constitutes only a small proportion of the totality of overall public spending. The results of the Spending Review analysis will support budgetary decisions and facilitate the consideration of existing expenditure alongside budgetary proposals.

11/07/2017WRK03100Public Procurement Regulations

11/07/2017WRK03200171. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the measures his Department has implemented to support SMEs in accessing the public procurement market; the steps that have been taken to allow Government bodies access procurement locally as promised in the programme for Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32444/17]

11/07/2017WRK03300Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Public Pro- curement is governed by EU and National rules. The aim of these rules is to promote an open, competitive and non-discriminatory public procurement regime which delivers the best value for money. It would be a breach of the EU rules for a public body to favour particular candidates on grounds such as organisation size, locality, nationality, etc. and there are legal remedies which may be used against any public body infringing these rules.

Meetings of the SME Advisory Group take place on a quarterly basis to address industry concerns. This group includes representatives of the Office of Government Procurement, Dept. of Enterprise and Innovation, Intertrade Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, IBEC, ISME, SFA, CIF and Chambers Ireland and is chaired at Minister of State level. There has been regular proactive 244 11 July 2017 engagement with SME Representative Bodies through this Group. A Communications Strategy subgroup has also been established to help increase awareness of potential opportunities and supports available for SMEs.

Members of the Oireachtas were briefed on Public Procurement in Leinster House last De- cember by the then Minister for State Murphy and members of the Office of Government Pro- curement. In addition, regional public procurement briefings on SME access were held in Feb- ruary and May Cork, Galway, Louth and Cavan. A further briefing is taking place in Limerick today.

The OGP takes a balanced approach to delivering value for the taxpayer and supports SME access to public procurement as set out in Circular 10/14 - Initiatives to assist SMEs in Public Procurement - including by:

- Undertaking market analysis prior to tendering in order to better understand the range of goods and services on offer; market developments and innovation; what commercial models are available; the competitive landscape; and the specific capabilities of SMEs etc.

- Setting proportionate eligibility requirements, for example insurance and turnover, to support SME participation

- Breaking tendering competitions into smaller lots (for example, by sector, region, value etc.) where possible, to actively encourage SME participation and to align with the capacity and capability of the marketplace

- Actively engaging in a range of events to help foster awareness of and to encourage engagement in the public procurement process

- Supporting supplier awareness of eTenders, the national tendering platform (etenders.gov. ie)

Minister of State O’Donovan will be considering appropriate refinements to enhance the significant measures already in place to support SME access taking account of the lessons learned to date in the procurement reform programme and feedback received through the SME Advisory Group and the regional briefings.

11/07/2017WRK03400Garda Stations

11/07/2017WRK03500172. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the timeframe for works on a Garda station (details supplied); the timeframe for planning and construction; when this project is likely to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32542/17]

11/07/2017WRK03600Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The OPW has completed its role in the acquisition of a property for the new Garda Station in question.

The OPW and the CSSO continue to press for completion of the process by the Vendor of the property.

Until the acquisition process is fully completed, it is not possible to determine or advise on the timeframes for planning, construction or completion of the project. In view of the Deputy’s repeated interest and questioning on the matter, I can advise that any change in circumstances could be made available to her or she may wish to contact my Office directly. 245 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRK03700Public Sector Pensions

11/07/2017WRK03800173. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the progress that has been made to abolish the mandatory retirement ages for civil servants and others who wish on a voluntary basis to continue working in their employment; if the various Departments of State have reviewed this matter with the objective of advancing legislation to achieve this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32732/17]

11/07/2017WRK03900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question no. 31298/17 on 4 July 2017.

11/07/2017WRK04000Public Sector Staff Expenses

11/07/2017WRK04100174. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the current system of travel allowances paid to public servants for travel in the conduct of their duties pays a higher rate for those driving in vehicles with larger engine sizes; if he will consider introducing a revised system of allowances that would incentivise travel by bike, public transport and lower pollution vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32737/17]

11/07/2017WRK04200Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Travel on official duty is an integral part of the functions carried out by many civil and public servants. As a standard principle, public servants should always strive to use public transport for official travel in the first instance, where suitable.

The mileage rates are designed to compensate an officer for the costs incurred in using their own car on official business. The rates are set based on a methodology agreed with the Staff As- sociations. The methodology takes account of both overhead costs (such as car cost, depreciation and insurance) and also running costs (fuel costs and maintenance). The rates are intended to reimburse an officer for the costs incurred and are not considered a source of emolument or profit. As such, these rates are not considered to be an incentive for officers to use their own cars for official travel.

The Deputy may wish to note that the formula underpinning the motor mileage rates was reviewed this year with a view to reflecting increased efficiencies and improvements in motor technology. The revised rates are based on an agreed methodology that reflects changes in technology, road conditions, commuter behaviour and car ownership patterns. In comparison to the previous system, the revised rates provide a more beneficial compensation regime for officers with cars with lower engine sizes (i.e. the 0-1200cc engine category).

The Deputy may also wish to note that my Department recognises the importance of encouraging officers to choose more environmentally-friendly vehicles and methods of travel. Future revisions of the mileage formula for motor travel rates will move progressively in this direction.

The Revenue Commissioners administer a tax relief scheme for employers to provide a bicycle to employees where the employee does not incur a tax cost for benefit in kind. The Cycle to Work Scheme operates by way of a salary sacrifice. Where an officer uses their bicycle for official travel, they may claim mileage at a rate of 8 cent per kilometre.

11/07/2017WRK04300Vacant Sites

246 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRK04400175. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason during a housing crisis, sites (details supplied) owned by the OPW are on the Dublin City Council register of vacant sites; his plans for the sites; and when they will be put back into use. [32741/17]

11/07/2017WRK04500Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The sites identified are adjoining sites and I will treat them as one site for the purpose of this answer. This site has been designated by Government for a significant development for use by An Garda Síochána. I would not therefore consider the site as one that is lying idle with no intended purpose, and which should be considered for housing or urban renewal. The proposed Garda development is currently the subject of intensive preparatory and planning work. My officials advise me that an application for planning permission for the intended development is expected to be made in Autumn 2017.

11/07/2017WRL00200Heritage Sites

11/07/2017WRL00300176. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to upgrade the site of Athcarne Castle (details supplied); and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the site is very unsafe and is currently in a state of untidiness and dilapi- dation. [32749/17]

11/07/2017WRL00400Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): There are no plans currently to carry out any major works at Athcarne Castle. This is a medieval structure which is, like much of the National Monuments estate, in a ruined condition. However, in line with the principles of conservation in situ, the Office of Public Works proposes to maintain the structure in place and to prevent any further deterioration.

Currently, the site probably shows seasonal weed and grass growth. The National Monu- ments team within the OPW will address this shortly as part of its normal maintenance activities.

11/07/2017WRL00500Pension Provisions

11/07/2017WRL00600177. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the basis on which the spouses and children’s pension scheme contribution needs to be repaid in the case of a person (details supplied); the relevant legislation governing the repayment of the spouses and children’s pension scheme in such circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32801/17]

11/07/2017WRL00700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The original spouses’ and children’s pension scheme for the civil service was put in place by way of SI 132 of 1977 http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1977/si/132/made/en/print and the revised scheme was put in place by way of circular 16 of 1984 http://circulars.gov.ie/pdf/circular/finance/1984/16.pdf, which has statutory underpinning in the Civil Service Regulation Act 1956.

Under the terms of the scheme, any period of service for which periodic contributions have not been made by means of deduction from salary is subject to the payment of non-periodic contribution. In accordance with scheme rules, the level of contribution is calculated at retirement on the basis of 1% of final pensionable remuneration in respect of each years. The rules governing non-periodic contributions are set out in circular 16 of 1984.

247 Questions - Written Answers The person referred to by the Deputy re-entered employment in the civil service with the Revenue Commissioners in 2002. She raised a case with PeoplePoint in December 2015 asking how much it would cost her to pay back her marriage gratuity.

On 22 January 2016, the person was advised of the cost of repaying the marriage gratuity at that time and also that she could opt instead to repay the gratuity from her retirement lump sum at the time of her retirement, on the basis that the marriage gratuity would continue to accrue compound interest until date of retirement.

She was also advised that there was a further charge owing towards the Spouses and Chil- dren’s scheme in respect of the period for which she had received the marriage gratuity. This could be effected either by way of lump sum deduction from retirement lump sum, or doubling up on Spouses & Children’s contributions for a period equal to that for which she had received the marriage gratuity.

11/07/2017WRL00800Heritage Projects

11/07/2017WRL00900178. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the plans by the OPW to carry out conservation or restoration works at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33040/17]

11/07/2017WRL01000179. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the plans for restoration, conservation and improvement works to be carried out at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33041/17]

11/07/2017WRL01100Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): I propose to take Questions Nos. 178 and 179 together.

There are no plans currently to carry out any major works at the Rock of Dunamaise apart from general ongoing maintenance, grasscutting, weed removal etc. This is a medieval structure which is, like much of the National Monuments estate, in a ruined condition. In line with the principles of conservation in situ, the Office of Public Works Heritage Service strategy is to maintain the structure in place and prevent any further deterioration.

11/07/2017WRL01300Budget 2017

11/07/2017WRL01400180. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the 2018 and estimated full year cost of all additional expenditure commitments announced as part of budget 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32237/17]

11/07/2017WRL01500Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): Page 36 of Expenditure Report 2017 provided an estimate of €473 million in respect of the full-year impact of Budget 2017 current expenditure measures. This has been reproduced in the table.

€m 2018 Additional Impact Social Protection 170 Gross Cost of Social Protection Package Education 98 Funding for new measures Health 97

248 11 July 2017 Existing service including 1,200 additional staff and new measures Housing 44 Funding primarily for the Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness (net of transfer from Department of Social Protection) Children and Youth Affairs 64 Additional funding including for Single Af- fordable Childcare Scheme

Total 473 As these estimates relate to measures being implemented in 2017, they will be impacted by the actual cost and timing of implementation and consequently the estimated costs will be reassessed as part of the Budget Estimates process.

The Deputy will be aware that, as noted in the Expenditure Report 2017, under the Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness, the Government has committed to a 2018 capital ceiling of €1,113 million for the Department of Housing, Planning, Community & Local Government, an increase of €325 million on the capital ceiling for 2018 published in the Expenditure Report.

11/07/2017WRL01600Public Sector Pay

11/07/2017WRL01700181. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an annual timeframe on the way in which pay restoration for the pubic sector will apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32270/17]

11/07/2017WRL01800182. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if there will be full restoration of public pay and pensions for public sector workers by 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32271/17]

11/07/2017WRL01900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 181 and 182 together.

The Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 contains the following pay adjustments:

2018

- 1 January 2018 annualised salaries to increase by 1%;

- 1 October 2018 annualised salaries to increase by 1%.

2019

- 1 January 2019 annualised salaries up to €30,000 to increase by 1%;

- 1 September annualised salaries to increase by 1.75%.

2020

- 1 January 2020 annualised salaries up to €32,000 to increase by 0.5%;

- 1 October 2020 annualised salaries to increase by 2%.

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

The proposed Agreement, which is subject to ratification by Unions and Representative As- sociations for public servants, provides a series of affordable pay increases which will unwind FEMPI pay reductions for all those earning up to €70,000, which is equal to almost 90% of public servants over the period to 2020. The Agreement runs from 2018- 2020 and has a cost over that period of €887 million. As such, this provides a clear and realistic route out of FEMPI.

In total the benefits under the Agreement range from 6.2% to 7.4% and again wehave weighted these benefits towards those on lower pay. As well as being fair to public servants it is also fair to those who rely on public services and to the exchequer. Under the proposed terms of the Agreement, public servants will make an additional contribution to their pensions, which is reasonable and reflects the higher value of these pension terms compared to the private sector. Crucially, this will place public service pensions on a more sustainable long-term footing.

This additional superannuation contribution will be applied as below:

Additional Superannuation Contribution

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% €60,000 plus 10.5% 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

250 11 July 2017 (Unchanged)

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

11/07/2017WRL02100Flood Relief Schemes Status

11/07/2017WRL02200183. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of a flood relief project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32356/17]

11/07/2017WRL02300Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): At the Office of Public Works’ request, the consultants on the Shannon CFRAM study carried out a review of the options for addressing the flooding problem in Clonlara. This review has identified an outline viable solution which is now included in the draft Flood Risk Management Plan for this area. Clare County Council has recently requested approval to advance a detailed project-level assessment and design for this outline solution. The OPW has now responded to the Council agreeing to the detailed study being progressed by the Council and has agreed to fund the costs of the study. Should the detailed study find that the project is technically, economically and environmentally viable then the project will be considered for further advancement with planning and construction to be undertaken by the Council.

11/07/2017WRL02400Flood Relief Schemes Status

11/07/2017WRL02500184. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position regarding a flood protection project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32357/17]

11/07/2017WRL02600185. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the position in relation to a flood protection scheme (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32381/17]

11/07/2017WRL02700Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): I propose to take Questions Nos. 184 and 185 together.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) recently received two reports from Clare County Coun- cil (CCC), one regarding Cloughaninchy and one on Quilty West. The review of the submission on Cloughaninchy is almost complete and the OPW will be in contact with CCC very shortly on this. The submission on Quilty West is currently being considered and OPW will be in touch with CCC on this as soon as possible.

11/07/2017WRL02900Road Network

11/07/2017WRL03000186. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans to close the main road through the Phoenix Park as has occurred in previous years during the summer period; the rationale behind the closure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32382/17]

251 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRL03100Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): The Commissioners of Public Works has operated a part road-closure of Ches- terfield Avenue in the Phoenix Park from Friday, 28 April 2017 and this will continue until Sunday, 24 September 2017. Closure runs from 8pm Friday evening to 8pm Sunday evening on each weekend during the summer period. The measure was introduced in 2012 in further- ance of the objectives of the Phoenix Park Conservation Management Plan 2011. The rationale behind this policy is to facilitate the open access of Chesterfield Avenue at weekends to pedes- trians, cyclists, runners, walkers and families. Public feedback suggests that the majority of those using the Park favour the closure, citing it as positive for encouraging families to use the Park without the obvious risks to life and limb that come with vehicular traffic.

11/07/2017WRL03200Public Sector Pensions

11/07/2017WRL03300187. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No.188 of 17 May 2017, the considerations being given to retired public sector employees in the Lansdowne Road 2 talks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32402/17]

11/07/2017WRL03400188. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 188 of 17 May 2017, when the public service pension reduction under FEMPI will be fully repealed and pensions reinstated; the measures his Depart- ment is taking in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32403/17]

11/07/2017WRL03500Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 187 and 188 together.

As I have previously indicated, a very significant part-unwinding of the Public Service Pen- sion Reduction (PSPR) in three stages is taking place under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2015, with PSPR-affected pensioners getting pension increases via substantial restoration of the PSPR cuts on 1 January 2016, 1 January 2017 and 1 January 2018.

This three-stage part-unwinding of PSPR is delivering significant pensions increases to PSPR-affected pensioners. On 1 January 2016 all pensions of up to at least €18,700 became exempt from PSPR; from 1 January 2017, all pensions of up to at least €26,000 are now exempt from PSPR, and from 1 January 2018 all pensions of up to at least €34,132 per year will be exempt from PSPR. Those pensioners not fully removed from the reach of PSPR by dint of these changes will, in the majority of cases, benefit by €1,680 per year from 2018. The cost of these changes is estimated at about €90 million on a full-year basis from 2018.

In my annual review of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest legislation, which was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on 29 June 2017, I concluded that, having regard to the overall economic conditions in the State, the measures put in place under the FEMPI Acts, including PSPR, continue to be necessary.

In this review, I also noted that the proposed Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 represents a sustainable further unwinding of the FEMPI legislation over the coming years.

In that context, section 6.2 of the proposed Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020, indicates that, over the duration of that agreement if ratified, policy on public service pensions in payment will be guided by the following three elements:

First, the need to adopt an equitable approach to the various public service pensioner cohorts differentiated by date of retirement (in particular pre and post end-February 2012) is affirmed. 252 11 July 2017 Second, for those who retired or will retire post end-February 2012, to the extent that they retired on reduced salaries for pension award purposes, they will receive pension increases in line with pay increases received by their peers currently in employment in accordance with the terms of the collective agreement.

11/07/2017WRL03700Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRL03800189. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds which will become available within his Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods and or changes to costs within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32410/17]

11/07/2017WRL03900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): All of my Department’s budget is allocated before the start of the year and therefore it has no unallocated spend for 2017. There are currently no programmes due to cease in 2017.

Like other Departments, my Department has commenced the 2018 Estimates process and this involves a detailed review of the budget required for next year. Allocations for 2018 will be announced in the Estimates on Budget Day.

11/07/2017WRL04000Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General

11/07/2017WRL04100190. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of staff full time equivalents employed by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General in each of the years 2008 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form; the expenditure on salaries, wages and allowances, travel and subsistence, training and development, incidental expenses, postal and telecommunications services, office equipment, external information technology, office premises expenses, consultancy services and legal fees expenditure on contract audit service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32411/17]

11/07/2017WRL04200Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been advised by the Comptroller and Auditor General that the detailed information requested is being collated and will be sent directly to the Deputy by his Office.

11/07/2017WRM00200Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General

11/07/2017WRM00300191. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of staff full time equivalents employed by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General that were engaged in audit in each of the years 2008 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form. [32412/17]

11/07/2017WRM00400Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been advised by the Comptroller and Auditor General that the detailed information requested is being 253 Questions - Written Answers collated and will be sent directly to the Deputy by his Office.

11/07/2017WRM00500Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General

11/07/2017WRM00600192. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of staff full time equivalents employed by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General that were engaged in reporting in each of the years 2008 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32413/17]

11/07/2017WRM00700Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been advised by the Comptroller and Auditor General that the detailed information requested is being collated and will be sent directly to the Deputy by his Office.

11/07/2017WRM00800Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General

11/07/2017WRM00900193. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the full year cost in total pay of increasing the number of staff full time equivalents employed by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General for audit and reporting duties and functions by percentages (details supplied) in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32414/17]

11/07/2017WRM01000Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been advised by the Comptroller and Auditor General that the detailed information requested is being collated and will be sent directly to the Deputy by his Office.

11/07/2017WRM01100Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General

11/07/2017WRM01200194. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the cost in pay of increasing the number of staff full time equivalent employed by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General for the purposes of reporting in order that it matches the number of staff full time equivalent employed by the office for the purposes of audit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32415/17]

11/07/2017WRM01300Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): I have been advised by the Comptroller and Auditor General that the detailed information requested is being collated and will be sent directly to the Deputy from his Office.

11/07/2017WRM01400Garda Stations

11/07/2017WRM01500195. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 288 of 27 June 2017, if the building will be retained for use by the local community; if the building will be maintained in order that it could be used as a Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32424/17]

11/07/2017WRM01600Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran): As part of the Programme for a Partnership Government, the Policing Author- ity was asked to carry out a review of closed Garda stations with a view to the possible reopening of a number of stations. It is expected that a final report on this issue will be delivered in

254 11 July 2017 due course. Pending the delivery of this report, final decisions cannot be made on the future use of those closed Garda stations.

For your information, the policy of the Office of Public Works (OPW) with regard to non- operational (vacant) Garda stations is to:

1. Identify if the property is required/suitable for alternative State use by both Government departments and the wider public sector.

2. If there is no other State use identified for a property, the OPW will then consider dis- posing of the property on the open market if and when conditions prevail, in order to generate revenue for the Exchequer,

3. If no State requirement is identified, or if a decision is taken not to dispose of a particular property, the OPW may consider community involvement (subject to detailed written submission which would indicate that the community/voluntary group has the means to insure, maintain and manage the property and that there are no ongoing costs for the Exchequer.

I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that the future use of the former Garda station at Knocknagree, Co. Cork will be determined in line with stated policy once the review has concluded.

11/07/2017WRM01700Living Wage

11/07/2017WRM01800196. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32567/17]

11/07/2017WRM01900Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question, the table below outlines the annual cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed by my Department or in bodies under its aegis.

Organisation Annual Cost€ Department of Public Expenditure and 44,207 Reform National Shared Services Office 717,672 Office of Government Procurement 52,370 Public Appointments Service 182,470 Office of the Ombudsman 42,737 State Laboratory 3,067 Office of Public Works 507,000 Institute of Public Administration (IPA) No additional cost Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) No additional cost

11/07/2017WRM02000Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRM02100197. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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 255 Questions - Written Answers made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32656/17]

11/07/2017WRM02200Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): In response to the Deputy’s question, the tables below outline the relevant expenditure by my Department, and the bodies under its aegis, since it was established in 2011.

There has been no expenditure on media interview training and development during that period.

Information is provided in relation to the Institute of Public Administration (IPA), the Of- fice of the Ombudsman, the Public Appointments Service (PAS), the State Laboratory and the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The reply in relation to the Office of Public Works will follow within the next ten days in accordance with Standing Order 42A.

The SEUPB does not record expenditure under the headings of communications advice or interview training and preparation; therefore, these have not been included within their response. Please note that all expenditure outlined within their response relates to both the IN- TERREG and PEACE Programmes and is presented in sterling. The SEUPB is a North/South Body. The attached figures represent 100% of the costs, which includes contributions from Ireland, Northern Ireland and the EU Programmes/ERDF. SEUPB advise that it would be very difficult to calculate an estimate of the percentage of the costs that are directly attributable to Ireland.

Photography

Date Details of the event Supplier Expenditure 2011 Conferences and Lensmen €1,648 Seminars for Om- budsman’s Office Total €1,648 2012 Irish Presidency EU- Fennell Photography €105 PAN HRWG/IPSG meeting Irish Presidency Fennell Photography €105 EUPAN Directors General meeting Public Service Maxwell Photogra- €812 Excellence Awards phy 2012 Advertorial to pub- Bradán Publishing €418 licise restructured Civil Service Em- ployee Assistance Service Conferences and Lensmen €470 Seminars for Om- budsman’s Office Total €1,910

256 11 July 2017 Date Details of the event Supplier Expenditure 2013 IPA Events for 2013 Ark Photography& €3,436 including book Lensman Photogra- launches, confer- phy ences, seminars, graduations, training events Conferences and Lensmen €2,855 Seminars for Om- budsman’s Office Total €6,291 2014 IPA Events for Ark Photography& €3,104 2014including book Lensman Photogra- launches, confer- phy ences, seminars, graduations, training events Conferences and Maxwell Photogra- €449 Seminars for Om- phy budsman’s Office Promotional photo- City Headshots €400 graphs for marketing unit Total €3,953 2015 ONE HR Learning Marc O’Sullivan €369 and Development Photography Strategy 2015-2017 Implementation of Steven Langan t/a €1,500 Action 13 – Civil City Headshots Service Renewal Plan 2015 Implementation Maxwell Photogra- €529 of Action 13 – Civil phy Limited Service Renewal Plan NSSO photography Maxwell Photogra- €126 head shots phy Limited IPA Events for Ark Photography& €5,299 2015including book Lensman Photogra- launches, confer- phy ences, seminars, graduations, training events Conferences and Maxwell Photogra- €996 Seminars for Om- phy budsman’s Office Conferences and Clive Wasson €111 Seminars for Om- budsman’s Office

257 Questions - Written Answers Date Details of the event Supplier Expenditure Images for Annual Pam O’Brien €400 Report of the Office of the Ombudsman Promotional photo- City Headshots €1,050 graphs for marketing unit in the Public Appointments Ser- vice Total €10,380 2016 2016 Implementation Fennell Photogra- €849 of Action 13 – Civil phy Service Renewal Plan 2016 Implementation Lafayette Photog- €476 of Action 13 – Civil raphy Service Renewal Plan Official opening Noel Hillis Photog- €220 event for the Of- raphy fice of Government Procurement Offices at Spencer Dock IPA Events for Ark Photography& €2,688 2016including book Lensman Photogra- launches, confer- phy ences, seminars, graduations, training events Conferences and Valerie O’Sullivan €170 Seminars for Om- budsman’s Office Promotional pho- City Headshots €1,275 tographs for marketing unit in the Public Appointments Service Total €5,678 2017 IPA Events for Ark Photography& €1,679 2017including book Lensman Photogra- launches, confer- phy ences, seminars, graduations, training events Images for Annual Fennell Photography €234 Report of the Office of the Ombudsman NSSO photography Maxwell Photogra- €126 head shots phy

258 11 July 2017 Date Details of the event Supplier Expenditure Civil Service Cus- Lensmen €431 tomer Engage- ment Survey event Total €2,470 Advertising*

Date Description Supplier Expenditure 2011 Public Consultation Brindley Advertising €3,720 on the Regulation of Lobbying Office of the Om- Brindley Advertising €15,042 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Region- al Visits, etc. Advertising Services FCR Media Ltd €17,493 for Office of the Ombudsman Office of the Om- The Graduate €6,000 budsman – Advertis- ing to Education Market Office of the Om- Cork Adult Educa- €200 budsman - Cork tion & Training Adult Education & Training Exhibition Total €42,455 2012 Employee Assistance Journal Advertising €418 Service Advertisement for Newspaper Advertis- €2,075 the Chief Procure- ing ment Officer State Labora- FCR Media €4,236 tory – Advertising in Golden Pages State Laboratory – IPA €197 IPA Yearbook 2013 Advertising Services FCR Media Ltd €22,206 for Office of the Ombudsman Office of the Om- Brindley Advertising €16,611 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Re- gional Visits, etc. Office of the Om- S&L Promotions €307 budsman – Advertis- ing and Exhibition to Over 50s

259 Questions - Written Answers Date Description Supplier Expenditure Office of the Om- The Graduate €5,000 budsman – Advertis- ing to Education Market Office of the Om- Cork Adult Educa- €200 budsman - Cork tion & Training Adult Education & Training Exhibition Total €51,250 2013 Institute of Public Irish TimesBradan €63,129 Administration - PublishingIndepen- Promote Education dentFree papersRe- Courses, country gional PapersDart wide. Promote Train- & Bus Advertising- ing courses. Promote Magazine Advertis- new books, promote ingOnline Advertis- Administration ingRadio Advertising Yearbook & Diary, both national and promote conferenc- regional es, seminars. State Labora- FCR Media €4,236 tory – Advertising in Golden Pages State Laboratory – IPA €197 IPA Yearbook 2014 Advertising Services FCR Media Ltd €14,063 for Office of the Ombudsman Office of the Om- Brindley Advertising €18,458 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Region- al Visits, etc. Office of the Om- Mediavest €651 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Region- al Visits, etc. Office of the Om- S&L Promotions €1,470 budsman – Advertis- ing and Exhibition to Over 50s Office of the Om- The Graduate €5,000 budsman – Adver- tising to Education Market Office of the Om- Cork Adult Educa- €230 budsman - Cork tion & Training Adult Education & Training Exhibition

260 11 July 2017 Date Description Supplier Expenditure Total €107,434 2014 Procurement Ad- Emergency Services €2,399 vertisement in Ltd Emergency Services Ireland Procurement Ad- Tara Publishing €2,454 vertisement and Editorial in the Irish Packaging and Print Directory 2014 Procurement Adver- Council Review €2,399 tisement in Council Review Magazine Procurement Adver- Local Authority €2,399 tisement in Local Journal Authority / Council Review Etenders Procure- J.P. Devlin Media €1,046 ment Advertisement LTD in Public Sector Times Magazine Consultation Pro- Media Vest €835 cess Advertisement in Irish Examiner regarding new Pro- curement Directives Consultation Process Media Vest €1,280 Advertisement in the Irish Times regarding new Procurement Directives Consultation Process Media Vest €1,484 Advertisement in the Irish Independent regarding new Pro- curement Directives Statutory require- Media Vest €344 ment for Advertise- ment in ‘Seachtain’ seeking comments from the public on proposed Department’s Irish Language Scheme Public Consultation Media Vest €6,715 on Civil Service Ac- countability

261 Questions - Written Answers Date Description Supplier Expenditure Consultation on Data Media Vest €2,786 Sharing Institute of Public Irish TimesBradan €63,370 Administration - PublishingIndepen- Promote Education dentFree papersRe- Courses, country gional PapersDart wide. Promote & Bus Advertis- Training courses. ingMagazine Ad- Promote new books, vertisingOnline promote Adminis- AdvertisingRadio tration Yearbook & Advertising both na- Diary, promote con- tional and regional ferences, seminars. State Labora- FCR Media €4,236 tory – Advertising in Golden Pages Office of the Om- Mediavest €17,337 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Region- al Visits, etc. Advertising Services FCR Media Ltd €14,063 for Office of the Ombudsman Office of the Om- S&L Promotions €2,952 budsman – Advertis- ing and Exhibition to Over 50s Office of the Om- Cork Adult Educa- €230 budsman - Cork tion & Training Adult Education & Training Exhibition Total €126,329 2015 Notice regarding Iris Oifigiuil €42 ClareGalway Flood Relief Scheme Notice regarding Galway Advertiser €354 ClareGalway Flood Relief Scheme Notice regarding Tuam Herald €167 ClareGalway Flood Relief Scheme

262 11 July 2017 Date Description Supplier Expenditure Advertisements for Media Vest €4,663 expressions of interest for appointments to a panel of appeal officers to review certain decisions made by the Stan- dards in Public Of- fice Commission in relation to the Regu- lation of Lobbying Act 2015. Appeals to be conducted through Irish. Public Consultation Media Vest €5,037 process for Corpo- rate Governance Code Public Consultation Newspaper advertis- €6,855 on Commissioning ing in Human, Social and Community Services Open competition Newspaper advertis- €2,460 for an Actuary post ing & advertising in the Department with the Society of Actuaries in Ireland Flyer design Fiona Kearns €580 Flyer design Fiona Kearns €480 Recruitment Adver- Mediavest €12,509 tising for four individual posts Recruitment Adver- Mazars €177 tising Golden Pages entry FCR Media €1,765 on Government section Institute of Public Irish TimesBradan €50,064 Administration - PublishingIndepen- Promote Education dentFree papersRe- Courses, country gional PapersDart wide. Promote & Bus Advertis- Training courses. ingMagazine Ad- Promote new books, vertisingOnline promote Adminis- AdvertisingRadio tration Yearbook & Advertising both na- Diary, promote con- tional and regional ferences, seminars.

263 Questions - Written Answers Date Description Supplier Expenditure State Labora- FCR Media €4,236 tory – Advertising in Golden Pages State Laboratory – IPA €394 IPA Yearbook 2015 and 2016 State Laboratory Leinster Leader €246 – Advertising for Laboratory Assistant State Laboratory – Liffey Champion €111 Classified Advertis- ing for Laboratory Assistant Office of the Om- Mediavest €18,514 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Re- gional Visits, etc. Office of the Om- Highland Radio €701 budsman – Adver- tising of Regional Visits, etc. Advertising Services FCR Media Ltd €14,063 for Office of the Ombudsman Office of the Om- Chemistry €2,460 budsman – Advertis- ing and Marketing Services Office of the Om- S&L Promotions €2,952 budsman – Advertis- ing and Exhibition to Over 50s Office of the Om- Cork Adult Educa- €230 budsman - Cork tion & Training Adult Education & Training Exhibition Total €129,060 2016 Notice regarding Galway Advertiser €480 Skibbereen Flood Relief Scheme Notice regarding Southern Star €177 Skibbereen Flood Relief Scheme Notice regarding Iris Oifigiuil €31 Skibbereen Flood Relief Scheme

264 11 July 2017 Date Description Supplier Expenditure Notice regarding Irish Examiner €482 Bandon Flood Relief Scheme Notice regarding Southern Star €133 Bandon Flood Relief Scheme Notice regarding Iris Oifigiuil €31 Bandon Flood Relief Scheme Consultation on the Media Vest €3,548 first review of the Regulation of Lob- bying Act 2015 State Laboratory - FCR Media €2,015 Golden Pages entry on Government section Institute of Public Irish TimesBradan €40,516 Administration - PublishingIndepen- Promote Education dentFree papersRe- Courses, country gional PapersDart wide. Promote Train- & Bus Advertising- ing courses. Promote Magazine Advertis- new books, promote ingOnline Advertis- Administration ingRadio Advertising Yearbook & Diary, both national and promote conferenc- regional es, seminars. State Laboratory – IPA €197 IPA Yearbook 2017 Office of the Om- Mediavest €19,653 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Re- gional Visits, etc. Office of the Om- S&L Promotions €2,460 budsman – Advertis- ing and Exhibition to Over 50s Office of the Om- Chemistry €53,922 budsman – Adver- tising and Marketing Services Office of the Om- Carat Ltd €49,899 budsman – Adver- tising and Marketing Services

265 Questions - Written Answers Date Description Supplier Expenditure Office of the Om- FCR Media Ltd €11,174 budsman – Adver- tising Services Office of the Om- Radio Kerry €562 budsman – Adver- tising of Regional Visits, etc. Office of the Om- Cork Adult Educa- €230 budsman - Cork tion & Training Adult Education & Training Exhibition Open Government Mediavest €5,512 Partnership – Na- tional Action Plan 2 Total €191,022 2017 State Laboratory - FCR Media €2,015 Golden Pages entry on Government section Institute of Public Irish TimesBradan €12,941 Administration - PublishingIndepen- Promote Education dentFree papersRe- Courses, country gional PapersDart wide. Promote Train- & Bus Advertising- ing courses. Promote Magazine Advertis- new books, promote ingOnline Advertis- Administration ingRadio Advertising Yearbook & Diary, both national and promote conferenc- regional es, seminars. Office of the Om- Mediavest €3,506 budsman – Advertis- ing CIC and Re- gional Visits, etc. Total €18,462 *A significant proportion of advertising by the Public Appointments Service relates to specific roles and is claimed back from client organisations, so is not included in the above table.

Communications Advice

Date Website details Supplier Expenditure 2012 Public Appointments Wilson Hartnell €3,690 Service - Publicity advice around senior level and other recruitment campaigns Total €3,690

266 11 July 2017 Date Website details Supplier Expenditure 2013 Public Appointments Wilson Hartnell €19,022 Service - Publicity advice around senior level and other recruitment campaigns Total €19,022 2014 Public Appointments Wilson Hartnell €887 Service - Publicity advice around senior level and other recruitment campaigns Total €887 2015 National Lottery PMS Consulting €4,800 Regulator - Commu- nications consulting for launch of Regu- lator National Lottery The Communica- €14,760 Regulator - Commu- tions Clinic nications consulting for four individual positions OMB – Media and Murray Consultants €23,559 Marketing work on Regulation of Lob- bying Total €61,581 2016 National Lottery The Communica- €29,520 Regulator - Commu- tions Clinic nications consulting for four individual positions Office of the Om- Murray Consultants €2,000 budsman – Media and Marketing work on Regulation of Lobbying Office of the Om- Aurion Ltd €9,087 budsman – Regula- tion of Lobbying educational videos Open Government CiviQ €1,000 Partnership – Na- tional Action Plan 2 Total €41,607

267 Questions - Written Answers Date Website details Supplier Expenditure 2017 National Lottery The Communica- €12,300 Regulator - Commu- tions Clinic nications consulting for four individual positions Total €12,300 Public Relations

Date Website details Supplier Expenditure 2013 Institute of Public Q4 Public Relations €2,620 Administration - Promotion of Na- tional Conference, conferences, seminars, Administration Yearbook & Diary Total €2,620 2014 Institute of Public Q4 Public Relations €5,984 Administration - Promotion of Na- tional Conference, conferences, seminars, Administration Yearbook & Diary Total €5,984 2015 Institute of Public Q4 Public Relations €4,194 Administration - Promotion of Na- tional Conference, conferences, seminars, Administration Yearbook, Diary & Directory 2015 Public Appointments Q4 Public Relations €29,530 Service – Promotion campaigns for state- boards.ie Total €33,724 2016 Institute of Public Q4 Public Relations €4,502 Administration - Promotion of Na- tional Conference, conferences, seminars, Administration Yearbook, Diary & Directory 2016 Total €4,502

268 11 July 2017 Date Website details Supplier Expenditure 2017 Public Appointments Q4 Public Relations €7,380 Service - Promotion campaigns for state- boards.ie Total €7,380 Website Development

Date Website details Supplier Expenditure 2012 Office of the Om- Parallel Internet Ltd €54,796 budsman - Website design and support services Total €54,796 2013 Budget.gov.ie Harvey Nash €5,685 Circulars.gov.ie Harvey Nash €5,164 CMO.gov.ie Harvey Nash €7,749 Databank.gov.ie Harvey Nash €2,585 Gov.ie Harvey Nash €12,912 OGCIO.ie Harvey Nash €9,813 PER.gov.ie Harvey Nash €16,012 Office of the Om- Parallel Internet Ltd €28,965 budsman - Web- site design and support services Total €88,885 2014 SPS.gov.ie Harvey Nash €4,981 Design of website Egg Design €5,781 for Freedom of In- formation RFT provision for NUI Galway €19,188 initial development cost which forms a part of expert support for Ireland’s Open Data Inita- tive, other expert support eTenders.gov.ie EUS Holdings €41,189 Website develop- Iterate €3,776 ment procurement.ie National Open Data NUI Galway €9,365 Portal development Office of the Om- Parallel Internet Ltd €3,876 budsman - Web- site design and support services

269 Questions - Written Answers Date Website details Supplier Expenditure Office of the Om- Dovetail Technolo- €21,955 budsman - Regula- gies tion of Lobbying website development Total €110,111 2015 HTML Development Jet Design €677 Website develop- EUS Holdings €57,396 ment eTenders.gov.ie Website develop- Iterate €4,428 ment procurement.ie National Lottery Word Press €112 Regulator - Website Development National Open Data Consortium to €16,948 Portal development include Deirilinx, Fujitsu & Insight Centre for Data Ana- lytics, NUI Galway Office of the Om- Parallel Internet Ltd €13,649 budsman - Web- site design and support services Office of the Om- Dovetail Technolo- €128,231 budsman - Regula- gies tion of Lobbying website development Total €221,441 2016 Redevelopment Arekibo Communi- €2,706 of the Senior Pub- cations Ltd. lic Service website (sps.gov.ie) Whereyourmoney- Arekibo Communi- €5,006 goes.gov.ie cations Ltd. Website develop- EUS Holdings €474,322 ment eTenders.gov.ie Website develop- Iterate €18,539 ment procurement.ie Design for national Arekibo Communi- €4,400 information website cations Ltd. for the European Structural and In- vestment Funds National Lottery Word Press €112 Regulator - Website Development

11/07/2017WRM02300Garda Station Refurbishment

270 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRM02400198. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 190 of 31 May 2017, the timeframe in relation to refurbishment works; when the design team will be appointed; and when the works will be carried out and construction works begin. [32799/17]

11/07/2017WRM02500Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Kevin Boxer Moran) : The refurbishment of Newcastlewest Garda Station is included in the Garda Capital Investment Plan 2016-2021 and is currently being progressed by this Office. OPW has received a brief of requirements from An Garda Síochána and a feasibility study has been carried out. OPW architectural and quantity surveying services have been assigned to advance the procurement and appointment of other design team members and to progress the full design of this project. Following the necessary planning and tender procurement processes, it is envisaged that the construction works will take approximately 18 months.

11/07/2017WRM02600Fiscal Data

11/07/2017WRM02700199. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the total amount accounted for by demographic pressures in precommitted spending and in carryover by Department and budget line for 2018 in terms of the fiscal space; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33100/17]

11/07/2017WRM02800Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform (Deputy Paschal Donohoe): The Expen- diture Report 2017 set out costs of €0.3 billion for 2018 in relation to demographics net of estimated savings of €0.15 billion in Live Register related expenditure arising from continued improvement in employment. The costs relating to demographic developments arise in the Departments of Health, Social Protection and Education. The Deputy may wish to note that the savings currently projected arising from expected improvements in the Live Register will be re-estimated during the Budget Estimates process taking account of the employment situation and projections in relation to unemployment at that time. There is also an expenditure increase of €40 million included for the Department of Agriculture and Food in relation to the Rural Development Programme. A cost of €0.3bn arising from the Lansdowne Road Agreement was also outlined in Expenditure Report 2017 and will be allocated to individual Departments as part of the Budget 2018 Estimates process. In Table A.7 in the Budget 2017 book, published by the Department of Finance, these expenditure amounts were included in the total of precommitted expenditure deducted from the gross fiscal space when arriving at the estimated net fiscal space. In addition, the fiscal space impact of the increase of €0.3 billion in voted capital expenditure built into the Public Capital Plan is also reflected in the pre-committed expenditure.

The carryover impact of Budget 2017 current expenditure measures was also estimated and outlined in Expenditure Report 2017. This totals almost €0.5bn across Social Protection, Edu- cation, Health, Housing and Children and Youth Affairs. As these estimates relate to measures being implemented in 2017, they will be impacted by the actual cost and timing of implementation and consequently the estimated costs will be reassessed as part of the 2018 Budget Esti- mates process. As outlined in Expenditure Report 2017, these costs would need to be met from the available fiscal space in the absence of any reprioritisation of expenditure identified during the Spending Review process.

271 Questions - Written Answers € million Carryover Impact of Demographics and Capital Expenditure Budget 2017 Current Other Current Ex- Measures penditure Measures Agriculture, Food & 40 the Marine Children & Youth 64 Affairs Education & Skills 98 57 Health 97 118 Housing, Planning, 44 325 Community & Local Government * Social Protection 170 83 Lansdowne Road 317 Agreement Total 473 615 325 * This amount is net of an assumed transfer from the Department of Social Protection that will be reflected in the Social Protection Vote.

Last month, the Government approved the terms of the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018 to 2020. The agreement is now subject to ratification by the membership of the Public Service Unions and Staff Associations. If the agreement is ratified there is a cost of €0.9 billion to be met over the next three years, with €0.18 billion to be met in 2018.

11/07/2017WRM02900Special Educational Needs Data

11/07/2017WRM03000200. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of units at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33059/17]

11/07/2017WRM03100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): It is the policy of my De- partment that all children with Special Educational Needs, including those with Autistic Spec- trum Disorders, can have access to an education appropriate to their needs, preferably in school settings through the primary and post primary school network.

Such placements facilitate access to individualised education programmes which may draw from a range of appropriate educational interventions, delivered by fully qualified professional teachers, with the support of Special Needs Assistants and the appropriate school curriculum.

Approx. 18,000 students in schools have been diagnosed with autism. My Department invests over €300m annually in providing additional resources specifically to support students with autism in schools enabling:

- 63% of students to attend mainstream schools

- 26% to attend special classes in mainstream primary and post-primary schools, and

- 11% to attend special schools.

272 11 July 2017 appropriate intervention, in mainstream.

Enrolment in an ASD special class should only be considered where it has been demonstrated that a student requires the support of a special class because he/she is unable to learn effectively in a mainstream class for most or all of the school day even with appropriate supports.

Students enrolling in ASD Special Classes must have a report from a relevant professional or team of professionals (for example, psychologist, speech and language therapist, psychiatrist) stating that:

- S/he has ASD

- S/he has significant learning needs that require the support of a special class setting and the reasons why this is the case.

The NCSE, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), in consultation with the relevant education partners, is responsible for the establishment of special classes in various geographical areas where there is an identified need.

The NCSE, in looking to open special classes, must take into account the present and future potential need for such classes, taking particular account of the educational needs of the children concerned. The NCSE will also take account of location and sustainability in looking to establish special classes in certain areas.

While it is not always possible to ensure that a special class placement will be available in the child’s local school, the NCSE has informed my Department that, in general, they are satisfied that there are sufficient ASD special class placements to meet existing demand.

Since 2011 the NCSE has increased the number of special classes by over 100% from 548 in 2011 to 1,152 across the country now, of which 887 are Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) special classes.

The NCSE intends to establish an additional 145 ASD Special Classes for the 2017/18 school year increasing the number of ASD Special Classes to 1,032.

With regard to Co. Laois, the NCSE will establish 2 additional ASD Special Classes for the 2017/18 school year bringing the number of classes available in Co. Laois to 19, of which, 16 are Primary ASD Special classes and 3 are Post Primary ASD Special classes. Of these, 5 Pri- mary ASD Special classes and 1 Post Primary ASD Special class are in schools in the Portlaoise area.

The NCSE has informed my Department that they are satisfied that there will be sufficient special class placements available to meet demand in the Portlaoise area for the forthcoming school year.

My Department continues to work with the NCSE to ensure that there is appropriate planning in place to ensure that all children who require special class placements can access such placements in schools within their communities.

During the passage of the Education (Admission to Schools) Bill in the Select Committee last week I indicated that I intend, at Report Stage, to include in this Bill a provision that will provide, based on reports and advice from the NCSE, the Minister will have the power to require a school to open a special class or increase the number of special classes in schools identified by the NCSE. Because this power will require a school to provide land or alter existing property I am of the view that the power should be with the Minister who can engage the patron

273 Questions - Written Answers or trustees and that there should be adequate safeguards to ensure people’s rights are protected.

Parents/guardians of children with special needs who may need advice or are experiencing difficulties in locating a school placement should contact their local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) as soon as possible for information on available places. The local SENO contact details are available on www.ncse.ie.

11/07/2017WRM03200Schools Building Projects Status

11/07/2017WRM03300201. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will expedite the new facility for a school (details supplied) as a priority; the starting date for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32063/17]

11/07/2017WRM03400Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The Stage 2(b) Detailed Design Report was recently submitted to my Department by the Board of Management and its Design Team. Following receipt of that submission, my Department authorised the Board of Management to instruct its Design Team to commence the pre-qualification process for the assessment of suitably qualified contractors to which the project can be tendered. This authorisation was granted by my Department in order to expedite the tender process for this project by running the pre-qualification in tandem with the finalisation of Stage 2(b). The Design Team has commenced this process and the closing date for the e-tenders advertisement was the 19th June 2017. The Design Team has informed my Department that it expects to complete its assessment of the pre-qualification submissions in the coming weeks and will then submit its report on the shortlist of contractors to my Department.

Upon completion of the review of the Stage 2(b) submission my Department will immediately revert to the school with a timeframe to proceed to tender and construction stage.

11/07/2017WRM03500Schools Grievance Procedures

11/07/2017WRM03600202. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Skills his Department’s role in disputes between parents and the boards of management in schools; his plans to provide mediation supports in view of the fact that the only recourse available to parents when there is no solution to a dispute is via the courts or the Ombudsman; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32085/17]

11/07/2017WRM03700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The Deputy will be aware that, under the Education Act 1998, legally, all schools are managed by the school Board of Management, on behalf of the schools patrons or trustees or Education and Training Board (known as the management authority). It is the management authority that employs the school principal, teachers and other staff members. In ETB schools, the ETB is the employer.

Accordingly, whereas I provide funding and policy direction for schools, neither I nor the Department have legal powers to instruct schools to follow a particular course of direction with regards to individual complaint cases, or to investigate individual complaints except where the complaint involves a refused enrolment, expulsion or suspension, in accordance with Section 29 of the 1998 Education Act.

In dealing with parental complaints, my Department’s role is to clarify for parents how their grievances and complaints against the school can be progressed. Where a parent feels that the school’s board of management has failed to investigate or adequately investigate their com-

274 11 July 2017 plaint, they should contact the Ombudsman for Children.

The Office of the Ombudsman for Children may independently investigate complaints about schools recognised with the Department of Education and Skills, provided the parent has firstly and fully followed the school’s complaints procedures.

As the Deputy may be aware, on 5 December 2016, I published the General Scheme of an Education (Parent and Student Charter) Bill 2016. The Government have approved the draft outline of a new law, which will require every school to consult with parents and students, and publish and operate a Parent and Student Charter. When enacted, every school will be required to consult with parents and students, and publish a Parent and Student Charter.

The General Scheme provides that a Parent and Student Charter will set out the service the school will provide, the standards that will be adhered to and the relationship the school will maintain with the students of the school and their parents. The General Scheme also sets out a number of broad principles on which each Charter shall be based on.

These principles include:

- 1. Consulting students and parents and encouraging their engagement and full participation in relation to school policies and plans;

- 2. Providing students and parents with information, including accountability for provision and information on school performance;

- 3. Inviting feedback, comment and observations from students and parents and developing a listening culture in the school;

- 4. Ensuring courtesy, confidentiality and equality of esteem;

- 5. Acknowledging gaps, deficiencies or room for improvement;

- 6. Positively seeking to address parent and student concerns and electively providing redress as appropriate in order to obviate as far as possible the need for a parent or student to rely on grievance and complaint processes;

- 7. Providing processes for grievance and complaint resolution, including mediation and remediation where appropriate, and

- 8. Having procedures that include accounting for the outcome of a complaint, the reasons for the outcome, and the basis on which the outcome was determined by the school.

Under the draft legislation, I will have the power, as Minister, to publish statutory guidelines that a school will be required to follow in developing its parent and student charter. These guidelines would be published after consultation with the main education partners, including bodies representing parents and students.

The Guidelines will set a national standard and will assist schools by effectively providing a template to be used by each school when preparing its charter for publication. It is expected that the charter guidelines when developed will cover in detail the following general elements of a Charter:

1. How schools will engage with students and parents, collectively and individually

2. How students and parents will be consulted and invited to participate meaningfully in matters relating to the student’s experiences in the school

275 Questions - Written Answers 3. How students and parents can be empowered by the provision of information

4. How the school will be accountable to students and parents

5. How specific Information on school performance in teaching and learning will be provided.

6. How feedback will be invited and how student and parent concerns will be identified

7. How the school will seek to be responsive and

8. How grievances and complaints will be handled.

The General Scheme of an Education (Parent and Student Charter) Bill has gone to the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Skills for pre-legislative scrutiny. Pre-legislative scrutiny began on 7 March with officials, NGOs and certain of the education partners, followed by a session on 21 March with some more of the education partners. The Committee recently held a further session with the remaining education partners on 30 May. It is expected that the Oireachtas Committee will publish a report after the completion of the pre-legislative scrutiny process.

11/07/2017WRM03800School Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRM03900203. Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application by a school (details supplied) regarding the allocation of special needs rooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32089/17]

11/07/2017WRM04000Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department has been advised by the school referred to that it is withdrawing its application for the provision of additional accommodation for the establishment of a National Council for Special Education (NCSE) approved Early Intervention Unit (EIU).

My Department understands, however, that the school concerned are proposing to apply for accommodation to facilitate the establishment of a NSCE approved special needs class. My Department will be in further contact with the school concerned once this application is received.

11/07/2017WRM04100School Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRM04200204. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills the location a school (details supplied) in temporary accommodation in Cork city will be located to for the 2017-2018 school year; the position regarding the provision of a permanent site for the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32115/17]

11/07/2017WRM04300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The school to which the Deputy refers was established in 2016. It is currently operating from part of Nagle Community College, Mahon, Blackrock, Co. Cork. An extension of this arrangement was recently agreed with the school authority pending the delivery of alternative temporary accommodation which is currently being arranged by the school’s patron body.

The acquisition of a site to accommodate a permanent school building for the school to which the Deputy refers is at a very advanced stage. The school patron has been informed of

276 11 July 2017 the proposed location and my Department is engaging with the relevant Local Authority regarding the potential development of the site.

11/07/2017WRM04400Special Educational Needs Service Provision

11/07/2017WRM04500205. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the exceptional demand for places at a school (details supplied) in County Cork; his plans to expand the availability of primary and second level school places in Cork city and environs for children with a diagnosis of autism and complex needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32116/17]

11/07/2017WRM04600Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): It is the policy of my De- partment that all children with Special Educational Needs, including those with Autistic Spec- trum Disorders, can have access to an education appropriate to their needs, preferably in school settings through the primary and post primary school network.

Approx. 18,000 students in schools have been diagnosed with autism. My Department invests over €300m annually in providing additional resources specifically to support students with autism in schools enabling:

- 63% of students to attend mainstream schools

- 26% to attend special classes in mainstream primary and post-primary schools, and

- 11% to attend special schools.

Some students, although academically able to access the curriculum in mainstream, may find it too difficult to manage full-time placement there. This can be due to significant difficulties in areas such as behaviour or sensory needs which have not been ameliorated, even with appropriate intervention, in mainstream. Enrolment in an ASD special class can be considered for these students where it has been demonstrated that he/she is unable to learn effectively in a mainstream class for most or all of the school day even with appropriate supports.

Others students with ASD may have such complex needs that they are best placed in a special school.

The NCSE, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), in consultation with the relevant education partners, is responsible for the establishment of special school placements in various geographical areas where there is an identified need.

The NCSE has informed my Department that there is an identified need for additional special school placements in the Cork area for the forthcoming school year.

My Department is working with the NCSE and the relevant education partners in Cork to ensure that the required additional special school placements will be available for the forthcoming school year.

277 Questions - Written Answers contact details are available on www.ncse.ie.

11/07/2017WRN00200Student Grant Scheme Administration

11/07/2017WRN00300206. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason students enrolled in third level courses that are dependent on their parents for financial support may only have income earned during holiday periods disallowed for assessment of total family income under SUSI grant applications; the reason income earned by students during term time is disallowed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32164/17]

11/07/2017WRN00400Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor): 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 being exempt.

In the assessment of means, a deduction can be made for holiday earnings made by the applicant from employment outside of term time but within the reference period. I increased the value of this income disregard from €3,809 to €4,500 in the 2016 scheme.

The student grant scheme contains a number of qualifying thresholds for various grant values. These gradations allow students just over a threshold margin, to remain in receipt of a grant, albeit at a reduced rate that reflects their relative income vis-à-vis other applicants.

11/07/2017WRN00550Irish Language

11/07/2017WRN00600207. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his Department carried out a cost study on the establishment of a support centre for Irish language medium education; if so, the results of such a study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32168/17]

11/07/2017WRN00700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department has no proposals to carry out a cost study in relation to the establishment of a support centre for Irish language medium education at this time.

11/07/2017WRN00800Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRN00900208. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the details of expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds which will become available within his De- partment’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services, goods and or changes to costs within his Department and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32179/17]

11/07/2017WRN01000209. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the amount allocated to his Department under budget 2017; the amount of this that remains to be spent in his Department; the headings under which the unspent allocation has been made; the anticipated spend between July 2017 and 31 December 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32180/17]

11/07/2017WRN01100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I propose to take Questions

278 11 July 2017 Nos. 208 and 209 together.

The 2017 Gross Voted Expenditure Allocation for my Department is €9,171 million. The net overall allocation for my Department, taking account of forecast appropriations-in-aid in 2017, is €8,675m. These figures do not include the non-voted National Training Fund.

All expenditure has been allocated under the four main programme areas as outlined in the Revised Estimates Volume:

1. First and Second Level Schools €6,598b (72%)

2. Skills Development €343m (4%)

3. Higher Education €1,585b (17%)

4. Capital Services €645m (7%)

Almost 81% of the current allocation, some €6,838 million, is accounted for by pay and pensions.

None of our major programmes are expected to cease in 2017.

I anticipate that the remaining net allocation of €4,439 million will be spent between July and December.

It is too early in the year to identify the expected end-year expenditure position for my De- partment, especially given that the academic year starts in September when many of the new budgetary measures will take effect. I expect that there will be a range of expenditure pressures which will need to be managed in line with trends of recent years, including demographic pressures and superannuation costs.

The Department’s Budget for 2018 will be negotiated as part of the annual Estimates process, and will have regard to levels of demand for services, Government policy priorities as set out in the Programme for Government, the Confidence and Supply Arrangement and the Action Plan for Education as well as the views of the Oireachtas.

11/07/2017WRN01300Youthreach Programme Staff

11/07/2017WRN01400210. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of A and B posts of responsibility that are held by regional co-ordinators and co-ordinators and resource persons in Youthreach nationally; if regional co-ordinators in Youthreach for Dublin city and county and the education and training boards for counties Limerick and Clare hold A and B posts of responsibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32202/17]

11/07/2017WRN01500Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy John Halligan): I note that the Deputy refers to Youthreach Coordinators and Resource Persons. A and B posts apply to Teacher grades. Youthreach Co-ordinators and Resource Persons are distinct grades with their own salary scales.

11/07/2017WRN01550Special Educational Needs Staff

11/07/2017WRN01700211. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will address the concerns of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. 279 Questions - Written Answers [32209/17]

11/07/2017WRN01800Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The Deputy will be aware that I recently announced that 975 additional SNAs will be available for allocation to schools from September 2017 which is a 7.5% increase to meet the demands for the new school year.

A total of 13,990 SNA posts will now be available at a gross annual cost of €458 million. This is more SNAs than we have ever had previously and will ensure that all children who qualify for SNA support can continue to receive access to such support. In total, the number of SNAs available has increased by over 32% since 2011, when 10,575 posts were available.

The National Council for Special Education (NCSE), which is an independent statutory agency, is responsible, through its network of Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), for processing applications from schools for special educational needs supports, including SNA support.

The NCSE allocates SNA support to schools in accordance with the criteria set out in my Department’s Circular 0030/2014, which is available on my Department’s website at www. education.ie, in order that students who have care needs can access SNA support as and when it is needed.

Responsibility for deciding on the quantum of educational supports and resources to be allocated to schools to support individual pupils rests with the NCSE. It should be noted that SNA allocations are not made to individual children, but are made to schools to support the care needs of children with assessed special educational needs in the school.

The level of SNA support allocated to schools can change from year to year, as students with care needs leave the school, as new students with care needs enrol, or as students develop more independent living skills as they get older and their care needs diminish over time.

The National Council for Special Education has advised all schools of their allocations for SNA support for the coming 2017/18 school year. Details of the allocations which have been made to schools have now been published on their website www.ncse.ie.

The NCSE continues to process applications for access to SNA support which are received after the April deadline. Such applications will be processed in the order in which the applications are received.

In circumstances where a school, or parent, is unhappy with the allocation of SNA support which has been made, or considers the level of support allocated is not sufficient to meet the care needs of the pupils concerned, the school or parent may appeal that decision via the NCSE appeals process. Details of the NCSE appeals process is available at www.ncse.ie.

The local SENO is available to discuss any concerns that parents have about the present or future educational needs of their child. All schools have the contact details of their local SENO and contact details are also available on the NCSE website at www.ncse.ie.

11/07/2017WRN01900Education and Training Provision

11/07/2017WRN02000212. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if an application for the local training initiative programme in respect of a centre (details supplied) will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32211/17]

11/07/2017WRN02100Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy John Halligan): 280 11 July 2017 This is an operational matter for Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) who I understand have been in contact with the relevant Centre. I have arranged for KCETB to contact the Deputy directly in relation to this matter.

11/07/2017WRN02200Special Educational Needs Service Provision

11/07/2017WRN02300213. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Skills if there have been changes in the criteria for accessing a scribe for the leaving certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32214/17]

11/07/2017WRN02400Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations. The Commission in this regard operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate Examinations.

In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.

11/07/2017WRN02500School Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRN02600214. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the planned extension and development of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32225/17]

11/07/2017WRN02700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Tender documents for the School Building project to which the Deputy refers are currently being prepared for issue to Contractors. It is anticipated that a Contractor will be appointed in Quarter 4, 2017, with han- dover of the new school building in Quarter 4, 2018.

11/07/2017WRN02800Schools Building Projects

11/07/2017WRN02900215. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Education and Skills the precise location of the new secondary school for the Castleknock and Carpenterstown area under the patronage of an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32226/17]

11/07/2017WRN03000Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): My Department has been working closely with Fingal County Council under the Memorandum of Understanding for the acquisition of school sites in order to identify and procure a suitable site for the new secondary school for the Castleknock and Carpenterstown area. A number of potential site options have been identified and these are currently under consideration.

Due to commercial sensitivities relating to site acquisitions generally I am not in a position to provide further details at this time but the school patron will be informed of the proposed location for the school as soon as it is possible to do so.

In the interim the school will open in September 2017 at the former Institute of Horology property, Mill Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 on a temporary basis.

281 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRN03100Schools Building Projects Status

11/07/2017WRN03200216. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Sligo; the progress to date with the proposal; the details of the extension involved; when construction is likely to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32243/17]

11/07/2017WRN03300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I can confirm to the Deputy that my Department received an application from the school referred to for additional accommodation to provide classrooms, specialist rooms and ancillary accommodation.

The process of assessing the application is currently being progressed and my Department will be in contact with the school authorities in the matter as soon as possible.

11/07/2017WRN03400Special Educational Needs Staff

11/07/2017WRN03500217. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of an application for a special needs assistant for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32269/17]

11/07/2017WRN03600Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The Deputy will be aware that I recently announced that 975 additional SNAs will be available for allocation to schools from September 2017 which is a 7.5% increase to meet the demands for the new school year.

The NCSE continues to process applications for access to SNA support which are received

282 11 July 2017 after the April deadline. Such applications will be processed in the order in which the applications are received.

11/07/2017WRN03700Higher Education Courses Applications

11/07/2017WRN03800218. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the details of the higher education access route; if this can still be accessed for the 2017/2018 college year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32302/17]

11/07/2017WRN03900Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor): The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) scheme has been operated by the Irish Universities Association (IUA) and regulated by the higher institutions themselves and not by my Department.

The operational management of HEAR has now transferred to the Central Applications Of- fice (CAO).

I understand from the CAO that in order to be considered for the 2017/2018 college academic year, applicants must have applied to the CAO by 1st February 2017, fully completed their online HEAR application by 1st March 2017 and submitted supporting documents to the CAO by 1st April 2017. HEAR applications for entry to college 2017 are now closed.

However, applicants applying to the CAO for entry to college for the academic year 2018/19 can apply to HEAR when the CAO application re-opens on 6th November 2017.

Any further queries in relation to making a HEAR application should be directed to the CAO at http://www.cao.ie.

11/07/2017WRN04000School Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRN04100219. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to build a permanent school for a national school (details supplied); if this development will be fast tracked; the interim facilities that will be put in place until the new build is completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32312/17]

11/07/2017WRN04200231. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to the fact that first class pupils in a school (details supplied) will from this September 2017 be forced to be bused to another school (details supplied) in order to have a classroom and that due to this, they will lose up to 30 minutes of the school day; if instead of this, temporary accommodation could be provided on site at the school; the status of obtaining a permanent site and building for the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32738/17]

283 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRN04300235. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the date that the planning application will be submitted for two prefabs at the temporary location of a school (details supplied) to accommodate the school’s first class pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32824/17]

11/07/2017WRN04400241. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will expedite the provision of a site, buildings and resources for a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32957/17]

11/07/2017WRN04500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I propose to take Questions Nos. 219, 231, 235 and 241 together.

I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has been liaising with the patron body of the school referred to by the Deputy with regard to additional accommodation required for September 2017.

As the Deputy may be aware, this is a developing school located in rented temporary accommodation in Rathborne, Dublin 15 which will require two additional classrooms for Sep- tember 2017. Work is ongoing to provide additional prefab accommodation at this location as soon as possible and it is expected that an application for planning permission will be submitted this week.

In the interim, a number of options were explored with the patron body of the school. Following a Board of Management meeting in May, 2017 the preferred option of the school, supported by the patron body, was to temporarily accommodate two of the classes in the near- by Broombridge Educate Together NS, Bannow Road, Dublin 7 (which is in my ownership) as a short-term arrangement, pending delivery of the additional prefab accommodation. Broom- bridge Educate Together NS is a new 16-classroom school which opened in its permanent accommodation only last year with most of its purpose-built rooms available for use.

Where it may be more convenient, parents may wish to drop their children directly to the Broombridge Educate Together NS property which is located some 3km from the Rathborne site. Arrangements are also being made to provide bus transport from the current Rathborne location up to Broombridge Educate Together NS pending delivery of the temporary prefab accommodation on the Rathborne site. Once the prefabs are installed, the classes temporarily located in Broombridge ETNS will move back to the existing rented accommodation in Rath- borne, Dublin 15.

The Deputy will be aware that a building project for the school in question is included in my Department’s 6 Year Construction Programme. The current site of the school in Rathborne, Dublin 15 is a temporary site. A suitable permanent site for the school’s permanent accommodation has been identified and discussions are ongoing with the landowner with a view to acquiring this site. Following this, the project for the new school building can progress into architectural planning.

11/07/2017WRN04600School Patronage

11/07/2017WRN04700220. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the consultations his Department has carried out with stakeholders regarding the updating of the reconfiguration plan to transfer patronage of schools from the Catholic Church to other school bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32376/17]

11/07/2017WRN04800Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): As the Deputy will be 284 11 July 2017 aware, following discussions on patronage divesting with education stakeholders and patron bodies in 2016, on the 30th January, 2017, I announced new plans aimed at providing more multi-denominational and non-denominational schools across the country, in line with the choices of parents, families and school communities and the Programme for Government commitment in this area.

This will involve the Education and Training Boards in the initial phase, as the State’s local education authorities, identifying areas where there is likely to be demand for greater diversity and they will work with pre-school services to establish evidence of this demand among the cohort of pre-school parents. Consultation with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and with Childcare Committees Ireland in relation to administering the surveys of pre-school parents is ongoing and it is anticipated that this phase will commence in the autumn when the survey arrangements have been finalised and tested.

There will then be discussions between individual ETBs and the existing patrons/landowners concerning the possible transfer of schools to accommodate this demonstrated demand for diversity. Each ETB will prepare a report for my Department outlining the levels of demand within their functional areas and the responses of the existing patrons as to how this might be accommodated through the reconfiguration of existing school provision.

In the subsequent and separate implementation phase, where the level of demand for multi- denominational schools is sufficient to justify transfer of a school from denominational to multi-denominational patronage, a process will commence to give effect to that. There will be a role for the existing patron/landowner in consulting with local community and school interests, including parents and taking into account proposals from different prospective multi-denominational patrons. It is envisaged that transfers will largely be by way of voluntary transfer of live schools by existing patrons.

This new process for supporting transfers of schools to multi-denominational patrons in response to the wishes of local families is based around principles of transparency and cooperation. Therefore, there will be a very substantial level of consultation of local communities in the process, both with the ETBs in the initial phase to establish evidence of demand by consulting pre-school parents and subsequently through the requirement for the existing patron to consult with local community and school interests in proposing to transfer patronage of an existing school to an alternative patron body. In that process, the existing patron will also take into account proposals from all prospective multi-denominational patrons that wish to be considered. In the final instance, an application for a formal transfer of patronage will have to be made by the existing patron under the Education Act 1998, which will require Ministerial approval.

It is important to acknowledge the voluntary nature of these transfers, given that the current patron is in most cases the owner of the land on which the school stands. My Department will develop protocols on patronage transfer with existing patrons to ensure that school and local communities and prospective patrons are fully consulted before a decision is made. I am confident that this process will respect the views of all parties - parents, local schools and communities and patrons.

While these new structures are being introduced, my Department will continue to work with the main stakeholders to progress delivery of diversity in areas already identified, in 2017 and beyond.

I look forward to working constructively with all education stakeholders and patron bodies in this important endeavour and I would ask all parties to put aside sectional or self interest in pursuing the national objective of providing greater diversity of school provision in line with the choices of parents, families and school communities. 285 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRO00200School Patronage

11/07/2017WRO00300221. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the 16 areas still waiting for the implementation of the 2012 reconfiguration plan in respect of school patronage; if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of parents in the areas affected regarding implementation of the remainder of the 2012 reconfiguration plan; the changes to this which are planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32377/17]

11/07/2017WRO00400Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): As the Deputy will be aware, following discussions on patronage divesting with education stakeholders and patron bodies in 2016, on the 30th January, 2017, I announced new plans aimed at providing more multi-denominational and non-denominational schools across the country, in line with the choices of parents, families and school communities and the Programme for Government commitment in this area.

I would point out that the previous model of divestment yielded only a very limited number of schools for transfer to multi-denominational patrons (10 since 2013). I believe that the new schools reconfiguration for diversity process has the potential to significantly increase patron diversity in our school system with a target of reaching 400 multi-denominational and non- denominational schools by 2030.

While these new structures are being introduced, my Department will continue to work with the main stakeholders to progress delivery of diversity in areas already identified, in 2017 and beyond.

11/07/2017WRO00500Departmental Meetings

11/07/2017WRO00600222. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the engagement his Department has had with the Unite trade union regarding the Qualifications and Quality Assur- ance (Amendment) Bill and the regulation of the ELS profession in the context of the forthcoming legislation; if he will meet representatives of the union to discuss it having an input into the forthcoming legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32378/17]

11/07/2017WRO00700Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Mitch- ell O’Connor): I published the General Scheme of a Qualifications and Quality Assurance (Amendment) Bill on 15th May 2017, following approval by Government. The purpose of this Bill is to address a number of issues that are currently impeding Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), the national agency with responsibility for external quality assurance and qualifications across the further and higher education sectors, from exercising some of its intended functions.

The General Scheme contains amendments to facilitate the introduction of the International Education Mark (IEM) which is a core component of the Government’s policy for the English language sector. The IEM will be managed by QQI and only those providers who meet the robust quality assurance procedures of QQI will be allowed to carry the Mark. The development of the IEM and related Code of Practice for the provision of programmes of education and training to international learners was subject to extensive consultation involving all relevant stakeholders in 2013 and 2014 as part of QQI’s comprehensive policy development programme. My Department has previously responded to issues raised by Unite in relation to the regulation of the English language sector.

286 11 July 2017 The General Scheme of the Bill has now been referred to the relevant Oireachtas Committee for pre-legislative scrutiny.

11/07/2017WRO00800Education and Training Boards Remit

11/07/2017WRO00900223. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to develop post-leaving certificate, PLC, courses on a regional basis across two or more education and training boards, ETBs; his views on the fact that the absence of PLC provision in Dublin 15 is a serious restriction on persons seeking second chance education or a return to college and further education in the Dublin 15 area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32379/17]

11/07/2017WRO01000224. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress his De- partment has made in the development of a regional strategy on post-leaving certificate, PLC, courses with education and training boards, ETBs, offering PLC provision to a wide geographical area across two or more ETBs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32380/17]

11/07/2017WRO01100Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy John Halligan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 223 and 224 together.

Goal 4 of the Further Education and Training Strategy aims to improve and integrate the planning and funding of further education and training (FET) and commits SOLAS to organise and conduct a schedule of evaluations of FET programmes, including the national PLC programme.

Following a competitive tendering process, the ESRI was commissioned to conduct an independent evaluation of the PLC programme. The report of the evaluation along with the response of SOLAS has recently been submitted to my Department and is currently under consideration.

Details of the allocation and planned outputs for all FET programmes for 2017, including PLC, will shortly be published by SOLAS in the 2017 FET Services plan.

11/07/2017WRO01300School Curriculum

11/07/2017WRO01400225. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his Depart- ment will commit to funding a social network platform for children in primary schools (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the potential of this technology that allows children to use social media in a safe and monitored environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32427/17]

11/07/2017WRO01500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I am aware of the service provided by the company referred to by the Deputy. This company operates on a commercial basis and consequently, it would not be appropriate to allocate public funding to this service in the absence of a public procurement process.

My Department through the PDST-TIE provides support and guidance to schools on internet safety. The PDST-TIE works closely with the Office of Internet Safety in that regard. Respon- sibility for internet usage by children outside of school hours, and access to social networks, resides with parents.

Webwise (a team within PDST/PDST Technology in Education) is the Irish Internet Safety Awareness Centre co-funded by the Department of Education and Skills and Europe (the Euro- 287 Questions - Written Answers pean Union’s Connecting Europe Facility).

Webwise promotes the autonomous, effective, and safer use of the internet by young people through a sustained information and awareness strategy targeting parents, teachers , and children themselves (through a Webwise Youth Advisory panel and collaboration with the Irish Second Level Students Union (ISSU)) with consistent and relevant messages.

The Webwise team develop and disseminate resources that help teachers integrate internet safety into teaching and learning in their schools. The team works closely with the Health and Wellbeing

team in PDST to ensure internet safety messages are considered in the mediation of strands of the Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) curriculum/syllabus. Information, advice, and tools are also provided to parents to support their engagement in their children’s online lives.

The Department of Education & Skills has published a Digital Strategy for Schools which links with the work of other Departments and agencies and outlines a vision for the use of technologies in teaching and learning. There are specific actions in relation to the safe and ethical use of technology.

From a Government perspective, responsibility for cyber safety rests with the Department of Justice and Equality. The Departments of Communications, Climate Action and Environ- ment and Children also have roles.

11/07/2017WRO01600Student Grant Scheme Applications

11/07/2017WRO01700226. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a full SUSI grant will be approved for a person (details supplied). [32464/17]

11/07/2017WRO01800Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Mitch- ell O’Connor): As part of a comprehensive customer service and communications strategy provided by Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI), to ensure that all necessary avenues are open to applicants to receive the information they need, a dedicated email and phone line service is provided by SUSI for Oireachtas members. This was established to meet an identified need for applicants who choose to engage the assistance of their public representatives in making enquiries about their grant applications.

Enquiries may be emailed direct to SUSI at [email protected]. Staff in SUSI are responding to email queries within a matter of days.

If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a student grant or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to SUSI.

Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down in writing by SUSI and remains of the view that the scheme has not been interpreted correctly in his/her case, an appeal may be submitted by the applicant via www.studentgrantappeals.ie outlining the position to the independent Student Grants Appeals Board within the required timeframe.

288 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRO01900Special Educational Needs Staff

11/07/2017WRO02000227. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills when special needs assistant allocations will be made to schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32538/17]

11/07/2017WRO02100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The Deputy will be aware that last week, I announced that 975 additional SNAs will be available for allocation to schools from September 2017 which is a 7.5% increase to meet the demands for the new school year.

In total, the number of SNAs available has increased by over 32% since 2011, when 10,575 posts were available.

The NCSE has advised all schools of their allocations for SNA support for the coming 2017/18 school year. Details of the allocations which have been made to schools have now been published on www.ncse.ie.

Where a school wishes to make an application for SNA support in respect of a child who was not considered as part of this allocation process they may continue to make such applications to the NCSE.

In circumstances where a school, or parent, is unhappy with the allocation of SNA support which has been made, or considers the level of support allocated is not sufficient to meet the care needs of the pupils concerned, the school or parent, may appeal that decision via the NCSE appeals process. Details of the NCSE appeals process is available at www.ncse.ie.

The method of provision for the additional posts this year has been similar to that for the past six years when decisions were made in late June or early July. This is not a satisfactory approach and we intend that in this year’s estimates, provision will be made for the anticipated extra need in the same way as for other elements of the education system.

In response to a progress report from the NCSE on the comprehensive review it is undertaking of the SNA Scheme, I have requested the National Council for Special Education to establish a working group, comprising relevant stakeholders, to assist in proposing an alternate and improved model for providing care supports so as to provide better outcomes for students with special educational needs who have additional care needs.

This Working Group will commence its work upon its appointment and the work will run in tandem with the completion of the Comprehensive Review of the SNA Scheme. It is intended that the reports of the Working group and of the Review will be completed early in 2018.

11/07/2017WRO02200Living Wage

11/07/2017WRO02300228. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Skills the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32560/17]

11/07/2017WRO02400Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The issue raised by the Deputy would only have an impact on the grades of Services Officer and Cleaner at my Depart-

289 Questions - Written Answers ment as the other grades are in receipt of salaries that exceed a rate of €11.70 per hour.

The majority of staff presently engaged at my Department as Services Officers or Cleaners are on an incremental pay scale and have extensive service and in recognition of this they are on the higher points of the scale which exceed the rate mentioned by the Deputy.

My Department does not hold data centrally in relation to payroll for the bodies under its aegis. Therefore, officials at my Department will request the information and forward it to the Deputy in due course.

11/07/2017WRO02500Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRO02600229. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32649/17]

11/07/2017WRO02700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): For the Deputy’s information, the following table shows expenditure from my Department’s administrative budget on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, media interview training and preparation in the years 2012 - 2016 inclusive.

Year Total Expenditure € 2012 131,324.35 2013 48,992.85 2014 136,392.68 2015 125,535.24 2016 97,250.58 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 De- partment will request the agency concerned to provide the relevant information insofar as it is possible.

11/07/2017WRO02800School Equipment

11/07/2017WRO02900230. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to schools here in which pupils were requested to buy tablet devices (details supplied) for their studies. [32700/17]

11/07/2017WRO03000Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I am aware that many schools choose to use tablets for teaching and learning. Under Section 15 of the Education Act 1998, the Board of Management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school. The position is that the day to day running of a school is a matter for its Board of Management.

It is a matter for each individual school to determine the curriculum to be taught and the strategies to be employed to support teaching and learning in their school. The decision to use tablet devices is a matter for the Board of Management of each school. Where the introduction of new technology is planned, there should be consultation with members of the school com-

290 11 July 2017 munity including parents. The cost and other implications should be fully considered by the Boards of Managements before a decision is made. My Department recently communicated with schools on measures to be adapted to reduce costs to parents and requested that schools annually review the cost of items they require parents to purchase and make this information available to the school community. It is my intention, as resources permit, to reward schools that can provide evidence of having adopted the Principles of cost-effective practice.

As part of the Digital Strategy for Schools 2015-2020, my Department provides advice on ICT equipment and digital learning tools that are best-suited to support learning and teaching in schools. An advice sheet on the adoption of tablets in schools is available on the PDST-Tech- nology in Education (PDST-TIE) website, detailing what tablets can offer a school, educational considerations, purchasing considerations and software. Further information and the advice sheet on tablet devices can be found at http://www.pdsttechnologyineducation.ie/en/Technol- ogy/Computing-Devices-Tablets/

€210m will be allocated over the period of the Strategy, with the first tranche of €30m already distributed to schools in respect of the 2016-2017 school year. I recently published the Digital Strategy Action Plan for 2017, detailing objectives that will be progressed during the year.

There is a School Books Grant Scheme in place that provides assistance for books including ebooks for students in all recognised primary and post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme.

Question No. 231 answered with Question No. 219.

11/07/2017WRO03200Education and Training Boards Staff

11/07/2017WRO03300232. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to lift the embargo of staff recruitment for City of Dublin Education and Training Board training centres allowing them to function again at a higher level and with better value for money (details supplied). [32747/17]

11/07/2017WRO03400Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy John Halligan): A Delegated Sanction Agreement (DSA) is in place between the Department of Public Ex- penditure and Reform and my department. The DSA, which will run until the end of this year, replaces the Employment Control Framework (ECF) and associated moratoriums and is subject to periodic review by both departments.

Compliance with the DSA requires adherence by my Department to binding overall three- year pay ceilings and to ongoing compliance with workforce planning requirements. ETBs are required to seek sanction from my Department for the filling of vacancies and these are considered on a case by case basis.

Having regard to the pay ceilings allocated to my Department for 2017 as part of the budgetary process, my department is required to maintain its focus on ongoing reform of the sector including the realisation of efficiency measures across the sector and the reallocation or reorganisation of work. In December 2016, my Department communicated with each ETB regarding these arrangements.

11/07/2017WRO03500Schools Site Acquisitions

291 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRO03600233. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to contact south Dublin county council in relation to his Department seeking to purchase a site as a site for a permanent school for a school (details supplied); if so, when he plans to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32822/17]

11/07/2017WRO03700234. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a design has been agreed for a permanent school (details supplied); if not, the timeframe for same to be agreed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32823/17]

11/07/2017WRO03800Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I propose to take Questions Nos. 233 and 234 together.

A project to deliver permanent accommodation for the school to which the Deputy refers was announced in November 2015 as part of my Department’s Six Year Plan and was listed to proceed to construction in 2019-2021. In that context, officials from my Department have been working closely with officials from South Dublin County Council to secure the acquisition of the site on which the school is currently located in temporary accommodation.

The disposal of the site to my Department has been approved by South Dublin County Council however title issues were identified with the property and, as the Deputy may be aware, a Compulsory Purchase Order was undertaken by the Council with a view to regularising these. This process is now complete and my officials are liaising with Council officials with a view to progressing the acquisition.

My Department will be in further contact with the school in due course in the context of initiating the architectural planning process for the new school building.

Question No. 235 answered with Question No. 219.

11/07/2017WRP00200School Transport Eligibility

11/07/2017WRP00300236. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views on whether the ethos condition in the post-primary school transport scheme that refers only to minority religious faiths, constitutes discrimination against other minorities such as those with no religious faith wishing to attend Educate Together secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32834/17]

11/07/2017WRP00400237. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a record is kept of the religion of the students qualifying for the post-primary school transport scheme to attend minority religious faith schools; if so, the number concerned. [32835/17]

11/07/2017WRP00500238. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure that Educate Together secondary schools qualify for the post-primary school transport scheme on the same basis as minority religious faith schools in view of the fact these schools are mostly chosen by those not wishing to avail of a school that is of the main religious ethos in the State. [32836/17]

11/07/2017WRP00600Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy John Halligan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 236 to 238, inclusive, together.

School transport is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Depart- ment. 292 11 July 2017 Currently almost 116,000 children, including some 12,000 children with special educational needs, are being transported in over 4,000 vehicles on a daily basis to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country covering over 100 million kilometres annually.

The purpose of my Department’s School Transport Scheme is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school.

Under the terms of my Department’s Post Primary School Transport Scheme children are eligible for school transport where they reside not less than 4.8 kilometres from and are attending their nearest education centre as determined by the Department/Bus Éireann, having regard to ethos and language.

In relation to school transport provision, ethos relates to religious ethos and is in the context of provision for minority religions.

While it is the prerogative of parents to choose the school that they wish their children to attend, eligibility for school transport is determined by the distance that children reside from their nearest school.

The detailed information requested by the Deputy is not captured by Bus Éireann during the application process.

The terms of the School Transport Scheme are applied equitably on a national basis.

11/07/2017WRP00900Institutes of Technology

11/07/2017WRP01000239. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the terms of the agreement made between the Dublin Institute of Technology or DIT Foundation and the Roman Catholic archdiocese of Dublin regarding the use of St. Laurence’s church in Grangegorman; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32953/17]

11/07/2017WRP01100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Higher education institutions such as Dublin Institute of Technology are autonomous bodies and are responsible for the day to day operations of the Institute including the use of buildings, procurement of goods and services, and provision of services for students.

11/07/2017WRP01200Institutes of Technology

11/07/2017WRP01300240. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Skills the person or organisation that has legal ownership of St. Laurence’s church in Grangegorman; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32954/17]

11/07/2017WRP01400Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The ownership of St Lau- rence’s currently rests with the Grangegorman Development Agency (GDA) until such time as the campus is fully developed at which point it will revert to DIT. However, in line with the arrangements in place between the GDA and DIT, DIT is fully responsible for the operation of that building.

Question No. 241 answered with Question No. 219.

293 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRP01600Special Educational Needs Staff Data

11/07/2017WRP01700242. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to the announcement on 5 July 2017 of an additional more than 690 SNAs, the number allocated to counties Cavan and Monaghan; the schools that will receive an SNA; if they are full-time or part-time, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32964/17]

11/07/2017WRP01800Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I recently announced that 975 additional SNAs will be available for allocation to schools from September 2017 which is a 7.5% increase to meet the demands for the new school year.

In total, the number of SNAs available has increased by over 32% since 2011, when 10,575 posts were available.

The NCSE has advised all schools of their allocations for SNA support for the coming 2017/18 school year. Details of SNA allocations which have been made to schools, including schools in Cavan and Monaghan have now been published on by the NCSE on their website at http://ncse.ie/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/NCSE-17_18-SNA-Allocation-Primary.pdf. Infor- mation as to the status of the SNA posts in schools is not yet available for the coming school year.

Where a school wishes to make an application for SNA support in respect of a child who was not considered as part of this allocation process they may continue to make such applications to the NCSE.

In circumstances where a school, or parent, is unhappy with the allocation of SNA support which has been made, or considers the level of support allocated is not sufficient to meet the care needs of the pupils concerned, the school or parent, may appeal that decision via the NCSE appeals process. Details of the NCSE appeals process is available at www.ncse.ie.

11/07/2017WRP01900Student Grant Scheme Eligibility

11/07/2017WRP02000243. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason SUSI will not accept documentation from the Department of Social Protection proving independence for a person (details supplied) who has applied as an independent mature student; if a sworn affidavit will suffice as evidence of independent living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33001/17]

11/07/2017WRP02100Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Mitch- ell O’Connor): As part of a comprehensive customer service and communications strategy provided by Student Universal Support Ireland (SUSI), to ensure that all necessary avenues are open to applicants to receive the information they need, a dedicated email and phone line service is provided by SUSI for Oireachtas members. This was established to meet an identified need for applicants who choose to engage the assistance of their public representatives in making enquiries about their grant applications.

This service complements the established channels provided by SUSI which include online application tracking, a dedicated website, a telephone helpdesk, email and social media, including Facebook and Twitter. 294 11 July 2017 Enquiries may be emailed direct to SUSI at [email protected]. Staff in SUSI are responding to email queries within a matter of days.

If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a student grant or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to SUSI.

11/07/2017WRP02200Special Educational Needs Service Provision

11/07/2017WRP02300244. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the actions being taken by his Department to increase the number of ASD places available in primary and secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33035/17]

11/07/2017WRP02400245. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of ASD places available in primary schools and secondary schools in County Cork in the school years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33036/17]

11/07/2017WRP02500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I propose to take Questions Nos. 244 and 245 together.

It is the policy of my Department that all children with Special Educational Needs, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, can have access to an education appropriate to their needs, preferably in school settings through the primary and post primary school network.

- 63% of students to attend mainstream schools

- 26% to attend special classes in mainstream primary and post-primary schools, and

- 11% to attend special schools.

Students enrolling in ASD Special Classes must have a report from a relevant professional

295 Questions - Written Answers or team of professionals (for example, psychologist, speech and language therapist, psychiatrist) stating that:

- S/he has ASD

- S/he has significant learning needs that require the support of a special class setting and the reasons why this is the case.

Since 2011 the NCSE has increased the number of special classes by over 100% from 548 in 2011 to 1,152 across the country now, of which 887 are Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) special classes.

The NCSE intends to establish an additional 145 ASD Special Classes for the 2017/18 school year increasing the number of ASD Special Classes to 1,032.

With regard to County Cork the following is the position regarding the number of ASD classes attached to mainstream schools.

Years Early Intervention Primary ASD classes Post Primary ASD ASD classes classes 2014/2015 22 53 24 2015/2016 24 67 34 2016/2017 24 80 41 (Proposed No. of 24 98 52 classes) 2017/2018 While it is not always possible to ensure that a special class placement will be available in the child’s local school, the NCSE has informed my Department that, in general, they are satisfied that there are sufficient ASD special class placements to meet existing demand.

296 11 July 2017 Parents/guardians of children with special needs who may need advice or are experiencing difficulties in locating a school placement should contact their local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) as soon as possible for information on available places. The local SENO contact details are available on www.ncse.ie.

11/07/2017WRP02700Schools Building Projects Status

11/07/2017WRP02800246. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the plans for a new school (details supplied); when construction is expected to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33037/17]

11/07/2017WRP02900Minister 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 (2016-2021).

The purchase 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 architectural planning.

11/07/2017WRP03000Schools Building Projects Status

11/07/2017WRP03100247. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the timeframe for the commencement of construction for a new school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33038/17]

11/07/2017WRP03200Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The school building project to which the Deputy refers is currently at advanced architectural planning stage. The application for planning permission for this new school was lodged in May 2017. When planning is secured, the project will progress to tender. The project will thereafter proceed to construction which is expected to be in Quarter 1 of 2018.

11/07/2017WRP03300Site Acquisitions

11/07/2017WRP03400248. Deputy Peter Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a school (details supplied); and if a site has been acquired for the school. [33043/17]

11/07/2017WRP03500Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Officials in my Depart- ment have been working with officials from the relevant Local Authority towards the acquisition of a permanent site to meet the needs of the school to which the Deputy refers.

A number of potentially suitable sites were identified and assessed and a preferred site option has been identified. Engagement with the relevant landowners with respect to the proposed acquisition is underway and Department officials are working to progress the acquisition as expeditiously as possible.

11/07/2017WRP03600Special Educational Needs Data

11/07/2017WRP03700249. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the location and numbers in each autism spectrum disorder units in a location (details supplied); and if he will 297 Questions - Written Answers make a statement on the matter. [33050/17]

11/07/2017WRP03800Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): It is the policy of my De- partment that all children with Special Educational Needs, including those with Autistic Spec- trum Disorders, can have access to an education appropriate to their needs, preferably in school settings through the primary and post primary school network.

- 63% of students to attend mainstream schools

- 26% to attend special classes in mainstream primary and post-primary schools, and

- 11% to attend special schools.

- S/he has ASD

- S/he has significant learning needs that require the support of a special class setting and the reasons why this is the case.

Since 2011 the NCSE has increased the number of special classes by over 100% from 548 in 2011 to 1,152 across the country now, of which 887 are Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) special classes.

298 11 July 2017 The NCSE intends to establish an additional 145 ASD Special Classes for the 2017/18 school year increasing the number of ASD Special Classes to 1,032.

The NCSE has informed my Department that they are satisfied that there will be sufficient special class placements available to meet demand in the Portlaoise area for the forthcoming school year.

11/07/2017WRP03900School Enrolments Data

11/07/2017WRP04000250. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of applications under section 29 of the Education Acts to allow for pupils to be enrolled in a school that have been made in respect of a location (details supplied) in 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33057/17]

11/07/2017WRP04100Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The position is that my Department does not hold statistics for individual schools for section 29 appeals. This protects the privacy of individuals taking appeals on behalf of their children.

11/07/2017WRQ00200School Accommodation

11/07/2017WRQ00300251. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason a school (details supplied) was not approved for a full toilet block. [33076/17]

11/07/2017WRQ00400Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I am pleased to advise the Deputy that an application for additional accommodation, from the school referred to, has recently been approved, for the provision of a new resource room. In addition, my Department has also approved the provision of a universal access toilet. It is considered that this additional accommodation will meet the accommodation requirements of this two teacher school.

299 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRQ00500Schools Building Projects Status

11/07/2017WRQ00600252. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Skills when the next phase of the school building for a school (details supplied) will commence; the status of this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33079/17]

11/07/2017WRQ00700Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at tender stage. Subject to no further issues arising it is anticipated that construction will commence in late 2017 and the project is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete.

11/07/2017WRQ00800Third Level Institutions Governance

11/07/2017WRQ00900253. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parlia- mentary Question No. 113 of 5 July 2017, if he will provide a copy of the information provided by UCC to his Department and the HEA; the way the voted expenditure for 2015 and 2016 was utilised (details supplied); if he will reconcile the principal differences between the audited financial statements and funding statements issued from his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33081/17]

11/07/2017WRQ01000Minister of State at the Department of Education and Skills (Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor): My Department allocates recurrent funding to the Higher Education Authority (HEA) for direct disbursement to the HEA designated higher education institutions, including UCC. The HEA allocates this funding as a block grant to the institutions. As an autonomous body, the internal disbursement of this funding, along with any funding it receives from private sources, is a matter for UCC.

While the HEA monitors the financial position of all the higher education institutions under its designation, the funding is in fact allocated to institutions based on a Recurrent Grant Al- location Model which is driven primarily by student numbers weighted by the relative costs of providing education in different disciplines with additional performance mechanisms built in to reflect outcomes such as those relating to access, skills-based provision and research.

11/07/2017WRQ01100Schools Building Projects Status

11/07/2017WRQ01200254. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress of the new national school in Kanturk, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33096/17]

11/07/2017WRQ01300Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): As the Deputy is aware the delivery of a new primary school in Kanturk has been devolved to the Office of Public Works (OPW).

The Department is currently finalising the necessary legal arrangements in respect of off- site works in order to facilitate the progression of the project. In tandem with this the OPW is currently preparing tender documentation.

As soon as this work is completed approval will be given to the OPW to seek tenders.

11/07/2017WRQ01400EU Enlargement

300 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRQ01500255. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the status of Turkey’s accession talks to the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32296/17]

11/07/2017WRQ01600Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): Turkey has been a candidate country since 1999. Accession negotiations began in 2005 and, to date, 15 chapters have been opened and one has been provisionally closed.

Although EU-Turkey relations are under considerable strain at present, Turkey retains its status as a candidate country.

The situation in Turkey, including the future of the EU-Turkey relationship, has been discussed extensively by the EU, in particular at the informal meeting of Foreign Ministers on 28 April following the constitutional referendum on 16 April. While respecting the right of Turkey to decide on its system of governance, Ministers, including my predecessor Charlie Flanagan TD, reiterated their deep concerns about democracy, human rights, the rule of law and freedom of expression, including media expression, and their concern at the conduct and implications of the referendum.

On 6 July, on learning of the arrest of the Executive Director of Amnesty International and nine others, I made a statement urging the Turkish authorities to respect the role played by NGOs in a functioning democracy, and I will continue to make clear our serious concerns about democracy, rule of law and freedom of expression, including media expression, and human rights, including the rights of minorities in Turkey.

There has also been deplorably intemperate criticism by Turkish leaders of some partner member States.

However, the EU wants to see a stable, secure, economically successful and democratic Turkey. The Council and Commission continue to believe that a policy of critical engagement is in the interests of the long term future of all the citizens of Turkey, and, with that in mind, that accession negotiations should not be suspended.

Ireland fully agrees with this approach. We believe that the lines of communication must be kept open and this includes through the accession process, which gives us at least some leverage with which to encourage Turkey to return to European values.

On the other hand, I acknowledge that on 24 November 2016 the European Parliament passed a resolution calling for a temporary freeze of negotiations. A further resolution reiterat- ing this position was passed on 6 July. It calls for the formal suspension of accession negotiations without delay. Neither resolution is binding as decisions in relation to accession are a matter for the Council, but both reflect the serious concerns in relation to ongoing developments in Turkey.

11/07/2017WRQ01700Foreign Conflicts

11/07/2017WRQ01800256. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the situation in South Sudan; the efforts being made by the Government and the EU to help bring an end to the conflict; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32297/17]

11/07/2017WRQ01900Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Ciarán Cannon): I remain seriously concerned about the situation in South Sudan, where fighting continues to drive displacement, acute hunger and grave human rights abuses.

301 Questions - Written Answers Despite the announcement of the National Dialogue in December 2016, fighting has increased in recent months. The conflict itself has fragmented, increasingly on ethnic lines. Ire- land and our EU partners have repeatedly condemned the violence and I am especially concerned by recent reports of blockages to aid deliveries in the Equatoria region.

To resolve the political crisis and ensure unhindered humanitarian access, sustained collective effort is required regionally and internationally, including by the UN, the African Union, and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD). I therefore welcome the recent meetings of the IGAD Heads of State and Council of Ministers which demonstrated renewed efforts to seek an inclusive political solution to the conflict.

Ireland and our EU partners have maintained our focus on South Sudan. At EU level, Coun- cil Conclusions adopted at the Foreign Affairs Council in December 2016 called on the South Sudanese leadership to uphold its duty to protect its citizens. EU efforts to stem the flow of weapons and resources fuelling the conflict have included the imposition of an arms embargo and restrictive measures against individuals obstructing the peace process.

We have repeatedly highlighted the gross violations of human rights occurring in South Sudan, including at the recent session of the UN Human Rights Council in March 2017. At a Special Session of the Council in December 2016, Ireland supported the renewal of the mandate of the Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, and called for the maintenance of international support for the 2015 Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan.

Ireland has provided almost €48 million in humanitarian assistance for the South Sudan crisis since 2012, including assistance for South Sudanese refugees in neighbouring countries. So far this year, we have provided €9.2 million. Ireland is also providing support through core funding and other contributions to UN agencies and organizations, the Red Cross, and NGO pooled funds, all of which are providing assistance on the ground. International donors have provided over $990 million in humanitarian assistance for the South Sudan crisis since January this year, with the European Union, including the European Commission and Member States, contributing over $300 million.

11/07/2017WRQ02000EU Agreements

11/07/2017WRQ02100257. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the EU-Libya migration agreement; the efforts being made to safeguard refugees returned to Libya; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32298/17]

11/07/2017WRQ02200Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): There is no EU Libya migration agreement as such. Rather the EU has proposed a number of ways to help Libya to manage and control the flow of migrants risking their lives, and it continues to seek solutions to prevent further loss of life and to improve conditions on the ground for migrants.

The March European Council confirmed the EU’s commitment to assist Libya as set out in February’s Malta Declaration. That commitment is broad-ranging, including capacity building, training, and the provision of equipment and support for the Libyan national coast guard and other agencies. It also seeks to ensure that there are adequate reception capacities in Libya for migrants, including through working with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

In April, the EU approved a €90 million programme to step up protection of migrants and to reinforce migration management in Libya. A key objective is to provide multi-sectoral as- 302 11 July 2017 sistance and protection to migrants, refugees and host communities in different locations inside Libya, in particular inside detention centres, at disembarkation points and in urban settings. This programme is being implemented through a number of international agencies including the UNHCR and UNICEF. The €90m is in addition to the €120 million previously announced by the EU for migration-related support for Libya.

Migration along the Central Mediterranean Route was discussed at the European Council in June, which made clear that continuing migratory flows leading to an ongoing loss of life remains an issue of urgent concern. It agreed that the EU and its member states had to step up coordination and delivery on all the elements contained in the Malta Declaration, the Partnership Framework and the Joint Valletta Action Plan, underpinned by sufficient financial resources. Training and equipping the Libyan Coast Guard is a key component of the EU approach and the Council agreed that it should be speeded up. Cooperation with countries of origin and transit is to be reinforced in order to stem the migratory pressure on Libya’s and other neighbouring countries’ land borders. The European Council underlined in this context the importance of supporting the G5 Sahel Joint force (recently established to address the threat of terrorism, as well as the serious challenges posed by transnational organized crime in the region which comprises Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger). There, as elsewhere, the disruption of the business models of human smugglers and traffickers remains a key objective, including by better controlling the trade in equipment used by them.

The EU will continue its active engagement with Libya to see what more can be done to address the difficulties migrants face there.

11/07/2017WRQ02300Foreign Conflicts

11/07/2017WRQ02400258. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the situation in Venezuela; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32299/17]

11/07/2017WRQ02500Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I am deeply concerned by the deteriorating situation in Venezuela, and in particular by the recent violent attacks against the democratically elected National Assembly.

While there have been long-running demonstrations in Venezuela, the past two months have seen almost daily mass-protests, resulting in dozens of deaths in clashes between security forces and opposition demonstrators. I reiterate that I condemn unreservedly any intimidation or violence perpetrated against those seeking to defend their rights, whether in Venezuela or elsewhere.

The situation in Venezuela was discussed at the Foreign Affairs Council on 15 May 2017. Ireland and other EU member States used this opportunity to publicly condemn the use of force in Venezuela and call for the fatalities of recent weeks to be fully investigated. We have urged both the Government and opposition to seek peaceful and democratic solutions to the crisis and have called on the Government to facilitate external agencies in addressing the urgent needs of the Venezuelan population, which is faced with a shortage of basic supplies such as food and medicines.

Ireland’s view is that the establishment of a clear electoral calendar and the full restoration of the country’s democratic institutions will be critical to achieving a settlement to the crisis and we have urged the Government to engage in dialogue with the National Assembly and other relevant parties. I am concerned that the recent proposal to establish a Constituent Assembly may further undermine the democratic role of the National Assembly.

303 Questions - Written Answers While Ireland does not have diplomatic representation in Venezuela, officials at my Depart- ment and at our Embassy in Mexico, whose remit includes Venezuela, will continue to follow the situation closely and use any bilateral contacts with the government or opposition to urge a peaceful settlement to the crisis.

11/07/2017WRQ02600International Agreements

11/07/2017WRQ02700259. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when he first heard the announcement by the British Government changing access to fishing in British waters for the first time since the 1964 treaty; if he or his officials have sought a meeting with his counterpart to outline the diplomatic efforts that will be made to protect the Irish fishing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32339/17]

11/07/2017WRQ02800Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): Having spent five years as the Minister responsible for fisheries and having chaired the EU Fisheries Council in 2013, I am acutely aware of the effort required at all times to protect the Irish fishing industry. The UK’s exit from the European Union and their recently-announced intention to depart from the 1964 London Convention both represent very significant challenges.

As Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, I am working in close partnership with my colleague Minister Michael Creed T.D.to highlight Ireland’s fishing sector in all contacts with EU institutions, EU member states and of course the UK itself, as well as devolved administrations within the UK. I have already done this on a number of occasions during my first weeks in this role, including in my meeting with David Davis MP, UK Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, when I met him in London last week. The government has also made sure to keep in close contact with fishing industry representatives on regular occasions since the UK referendum outcome in 2016.

Regarding the London Convention, it was widely recognised that the UK’s intention to depart from it, while unwelcome, was not unexpected. Their public announcement came in the form a press release (embargoed to 2 July) issued to media by the UK Department of Environ- ment, Food and Rural Affairs during the latter part of the afternoon of Friday 30 June. The same afternoon, as a courtesy the British Ambassador also notified an official of my Department of the planned announcement, and this was in turn notified to relevant Departments.

11/07/2017WRQ02900Consular Services Provision

11/07/2017WRQ03000260. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has received correspondence regarding genuine health concerns of a person (details supplied); if he or his officials or the ambassador has contacted the Philippine Government expressing concerns regarding the delay in their case being appealed while their health deteriorates; if a request to review same on humanitarian grounds is being made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32454/17]

11/07/2017WRQ03100Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): My Department has been providing ongoing assistance to the individual at the centre of this long-running and difficult consular case since the time of his arrest.

I am very much aware of concerns about this individual’s health, and the Irish Govern- ment’s concerns in this regard have been raised with the Philippines authorities on numerous occasions. My predecessor as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade raised this citizen’s case 304 11 July 2017 and our concerns personally and directly with his Philippines counterpart when he met him in September 2016. The case has also been raised by my officials with the Philippines Ambassa- dor to Ireland and by the Irish Ambassador to the Philippines with senior officials at the Foreign Ministry in Manila.

Because the legal proceedings continue to be active before the courts in The Philippines, there are obvious constraints on what the Irish Government can do. However, we have made repeated representations stressing the humanitarian concerns in this case and requesting that the pending appeal be expedited. Notably, in November 2016 the Embassy of Ireland in Singapore, which is accredited to The Philippines, wrote to the Supreme Court Administrator in Manila, requesting on behalf of the Irish Government that the appeal hearing in our citizen’s case be expedited on humanitarian grounds.

On 11th January 2017 an official from our Embassy travelled to Manila and followed up on that representation by raising the case directly and at a senior level with the Philippines Min- istry of Foreign Affairs. The Embassy official underlined our concerns for the citizen’s health and welfare in view of the length of time it has taken for the appeal to be heard.

In April 2017 we received a notification from the Supreme Court Administrator advising that the Court was ordering the elevation of the records to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court’s letter specifically noted that the Irish Government had asked that the appeal be expedited on humanitarian grounds.

It is important to remember that this is an ongoing legal case and that the Irish Government cannot intervene in any substantive way in a matter before the courts in another country, and this has consistently been made clear to this citizen. It is for his legal representatives to advise him and to act on his behalf in matters before the courts.

The Consul from our Embassy has previously visited this man in The Philippines and has offered to meet him again. This man has also been in regular direct e-mail contact with my De- partment and with the Embassy. Officials from my Department have also met with this citizen’s designated representative in Ireland and are open to doing so again.

Let me assure the Deputy and the House that my Department will continue to provide all appropriate consular assistance to this citizen.

11/07/2017WRQ03200Departmental Staff Remuneration

11/07/2017WRQ03300261. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed in, or in agencies funded by, his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32563/17]

11/07/2017WRQ03400Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The remuneration of the staff of my Department is as sanctioned by the Department of Public Expenditure and Re- form in line with Government policy.

It is difficult to estimate the potential cost of introducing an hourly rate of €11.70 for relevant employees of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as those affected by the change include temporary clerical officers. The Department recruits a large number of temporary clerical staff on a seasonal basis, primarily for the Passport Office. This figure varies from year to year.

The best estimate of the cost per annum is in the region of approximately €350,000 to €800,000 to include permanent and temporary staff.

305 Questions - Written Answers There are no State Agencies funded by my Department.

11/07/2017WRQ03500Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRQ03600262. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32652/17]

11/07/2017WRQ03700Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I wish to advise the Deputy that in the time available, it has only proved possible to provide the information requested for the period January 2015 to June 2017.

Photography

My Department only avails of the services of external photographic agencies where it is warranted, in particular for major events and State occasions. My Department would, for example, have hired an official photographer to document the visit earlier this year of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, which received positive overseas coverage.

In September 2011, my Department led a collaborative advertised tender process for the procurement of a multi-supplier competitive framework of photographic service providers. This framework was for use by all Government Departments. The purpose of the framework was to ensure Departments’ compliance with EU procurement rules and to ensure value for money by having a competitive process for photographic assignments.

The Office of Government Procurement is currently leading on the creation of a new Multi Supplier Framework Agreement for the provision of Professional Photography and Videogra- phy services and my Department has inputted into this process.

In addition, my Department now makes greater use of in-house resources for photography.

The photography costs associated with particular events in 2015, 2016 and to date in 2017 are listed in tables 1-3.

Public Relations

My Department has not engaged outside public relations companies for the purposes of 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.

Public Relations Training

The Public Relations Institute of Ireland (PRII) has been engaged to provide training to staff from my Department’s Communications Unit on dealing with media representatives and communicating the Department’s key messages effectively.

Separately, other senior Department staff members have also received training on commu-

306 11 July 2017 nicating in crisis situations, which is fundamental in ensuring that the Department serves Irish citizens at home and abroad during consular emergencies overseas involving Irish citizens. The relevant payments made in the past two years and to date in 2017 are listed in table 4.

Advertising

My Department pays for advertising where it is considered necessary to bring important information, such as job notices, to public attention. Our reliance on this type of advertising has decreased year-on-year due in part to our improved use of free social media channels.

In addition, Ireland’s diplomatic missions abroad may undertake advertising with regard to a range of miscellaneous local matters. The costs incurred under this heading are relatively small and it was not possible to gather and compile the data requested by the Deputy in the time available.

Recently my Department conducted two major public information campaigns to raise awareness of important initiatives we have rolled out – the TravelWise smartphone app, launched in June 2016, and Online Passport Renewals, launched in April 2017.

The TravelWise smartphone app makes all of the Department’s travel advice available to citizens offline and in their pockets as well as being a valuable messaging tool for use by our Consular Service during a crisis situation overseas. My Department advertised the TravelWise app widely to ensure a good uptake of this valuable service by our citizens.

Online adult passport renewals are a key part of the Passport Reform Programme and my Department advertised the new service widely in order to ensure a good uptake by citizens of another innovative service. As this campaign remains ongoing and relevant invoices have yet to be received, data on this expenditure is not yet available.

Advertising costs for 2015, 2016 and to date in 2017 are listed in table 5.

Website Development

The costs listed in table 6 refer to both maintenance and development of the Department’s 84 websites (including www.dfa.ie, www.irishaid.ie, www.globalirish.ie and the websites of Ireland’s 80 diplomatic missions abroad).

The Department’s websites are used to publish valuable information for citizens, including on passports and citizenship, updates on the work of the Department and its Ministers and Gov- ernment travel advisories for over 200 countries abroad. The Department’s websites receive in excess of 27 million page views per year.

Citizens can also use my Department’s websites to directly access services including Pass- port Tracking, the Citizen Registration facility and Foreign Birth Registration and innovative new services such as Online Passport Renewals.

Our current focus in this area is to deliver fully responsive websites that enable us to better service the growing proportion of citizens who access the internet through mobile devices.

Table 1. Photography Costs 2015

307 Questions - Written Answers Description Date Cost (€) Minister Photographer PHOTOGRA- 10/03/2015 137.62 Minister Flana- Fennel Photog- PHY: ST. PAT- gan and Minis- raphy RICK’S DAY ter Bruton PROGRAMME LAUNCH WITH MINIS- TER BRUTON AT DING PHOTOGRA- 15/05/2015 172.20 MoS Deenihan Maxwell Pho- PHY: MOS tography DEENIHAN AND SONYA OSULLIVAN PHOTOGRPA- 12/02/2015 206.64 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- HY: IVEAGH gan, Minister tography HOUSE LEC- Noonan and TURE BY Minister Howlin GOVENER OF BANK OF ENGLAND MARK CAR- NEY Global Irish 213.00 n/a Inpresspics Economic Forum 2015 - Derry PHOTOG- 17/08/2015 241.08 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- RAPHY: gan tography MINISTER FLANAGAN MEETING WITH MEM- BERS OF OR- ANGE ORDER PHOTOGRA- 14/04/2015 246.00 Minister of State Liam Burke, PHY: Irish Aid Sean Sherlock, Press 22 Fellowship T.D. training programme PHOTOGRPA- 12/02/2015 258.30 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- HY: AN- gan tography NOUNCMENT OF PASSPORT CARD BY MINISTER FLANAGAN

308 11 July 2017 Description Date Cost (€) Minister Photographer PHOTOGRA- 326.00 n/a Aengus McMa- PHY: Global hon Photogra- Irish Economic phy Forum 2015 - Galway PHOTOGRA- 15/05/2015 327.18 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH gan tography HOUSE SCHOLARS AND MINIS- TER FLANA- GAN PHOTOGRA- 11/11/2015 344.40 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: LUNCH gan tography IN HONOR OF DR HERREMA PHOTOGRA- 12/01/2015 361.62 Minister Fla- Maxwell Pho- PHY: LAUNCH nagan & MoS tography OF THE DE- Sherlock VELOPMENT ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE OECD RE- PORT BY MIN FLANAGAN AND MOS SHERLOCK 02/12/2014 PHOTOGRA- 13/10/2015 373.92 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH gan tography HOUSE LEC- TURE BY SECRETARY GENERAL OF OECD AN- GEL GURRIA 15/9/15 PHOTOGRA- 14/07/2015 378.84 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH gan tography HOUSE LEC- TURE BY NOTRE DAME PROFESSOR ON US CIVIL WAR

309 Questions - Written Answers Description Date Cost (€) Minister Photographer PHOTOGRA- 13/10/2015 464.94 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH gan tography SCHOLARS PROGRAMME LAUNCH FOR 2016 17/09/2015 PHOTOGRA- 14/07/2015 482.16 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH gan tography HOUSE LEC- TURE BY THE PRESI- DENT OF THE WORLD BANK DR JIM YOUNG KIM PHOTOGRA- 11/11/2015 516.60 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: LAUNCH gan tography OF PASSPORT CARD BY MINISTER FLANAGAN PHOTOGRA- 526.00 Minister for Maxwell Pho- PHY: Global Diaspora Af- tography Irish Parliamen- fairs, Jimmy tarian Forum Deenihan PHOTOGRA- 14/07/2015 533.82 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IRE- gan, Minister tography LAND 2016 Humphries, DIASPORA MoS Deenihan, PROGRAMME MoS O’Riordan LAUNCH PHOTOGRA- 10/12/2015 575.64 An Taoiseach Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH and Minister tography HOUSE LEC- Flanagan TURE ON ANGLO IRISH AGREEMENT 30TH ANNI- VERSARY PHOTOGRA- 17/08/2015 654.36 Minister Fla- Maxwell Pho- PHY: 2015 nagan & MoS tography IRISH AID AN- Sherlock NUAL REPORT LAUNCH

310 11 July 2017 Description Date Cost (€) Minister Photographer PHOTOGRA- 16/12/2015 731.85 An Taoiseach, Lensmen Pho- PHY: PRESI- President Hig- tography DENTIAL gins, Minister DISTIGUSI- Flanagan and HED SERVICE MoS Deenihan AWARDS 2015 PHOTOGRA- 08/10/2015 736.41 Minister Flana- Marty Katz Pho- PHY: MINIS- gan tography TER FLANA- GAN VISIT TO WASHINGTON DC Marty Katz Photography Min visit DC 30/9/15 PHOTOGRA- 12/01/2015 895.44 Minister Flana- Maxwell Pho- PHY: IVEAGH gan tography HOUSE CHRISTMAS TRUCE LEC- TURE BY FOR- MER PRESI- DENT MARY MCALEESE 16/12/2014 PHOTOGRA- 12/06/2015 998.76 Multiple Min- Maxwell Pho- PHY: VISIT OF isters tography UNITED NA- TIONS SECRE- TARY GEN- ERAL BAN KI MOON PHOTOGRA- 14/07/2015 1069.98 President Hig- Maxwell Pho- PHY: GLOBAL gins, Minister tography IRISH CIVIC Flanagan and FORUM MoS Deenihan PHOTOGRPA- 01/12/2015 1845.00 Multiple Min- Lensmen Pho- HY: 2015 isters tography GLOBAL IRISH ECO- NOMIC FO- RUM PHOTOGRA- 24/02/2015 2043.00 Multiple Min- Lensmen Pho- PHY: GLOBAL isters tography ISLAND HEAD OF MISSION CONFERENCE 12-14 JAN 2015

311 Questions - Written Answers Description Date Cost (€) Minister Photographer PHOTOGRPA- 29/07/2015 2662.95 Multiple Min- Fennel Photog- HY: VISIT isters raphy OF PRINCE CHARLES AND DUCH- ESS OF CORN- WALL PHOTOGRA- 22/07/2015 2773.65 President, An Maxwell Pho- PHY: STATE Taoiseach, tography VISIT BY THE Ceann Com- PRESIDENT hairle, Cathao- OF GERMANY irleach, Minister Flanagan, MoS Harris and MoS Hayes New Years’ 16/01/2015 802.55 Mr. Jimmy Maxwell Pho- Greetings by the Deenihan, T.D., tography President for representing the the Diplomatic Government Corps Presentation 20/01/2016 351.85 Mr. Seán Sher- Maxwell Pho- of Credentials lock, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 21/01/2016 351.85 Mr. Dara Mur- Maxwell Pho- of Credentials phy, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 17/02/2016 351.85 Mr. Damien Maxwell Pho- of Credentials English, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 25/03/2016 351.85 Mr. Aodhán Ó Maxwell Pho- of Credentials Ríordáin, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 30/04/2016 351.85 Mr. Tom Hayes, Maxwell Pho- of Credentials T.D., represent- tography by Diplomatic ing the Govern- Corps ment Presentation 27/05/2016 351.82 Mr. Simon Maxwell Pho- Credentials Harris, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 25/06/2016 351.85 Mr. Damien Maxwell Pho- of Credentials English, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government

312 11 July 2017 Description Date Cost (€) Minister Photographer Presentation 23/09/2016 351.85 Mr. Joe Maxwell Pho- of Credentials McHugh, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 05/11/2016 351.85 Mr. Jimmy Maxwell Pho- of Credentials Deenihan, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government Presentation 18/11/2015 351.85 Mr. Joe Maxwell Pho- of Credentials McHugh, T.D., tography by Diplomatic representing the Corps Government BT Young Sci- 09/01/2015 482.16 MoS Sean Sher- Maxwell Pho- entist Award lock tography Total 25,900.54 Table 2. Photography Costs 2016

Description Date of Invoice Cost (€) Minister Photographer Photography: 18/01/2016 568.26 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- TRI LATERAL gan and Minis- tography MEETING ter Fitzgerald WITH SOSNI, NI EXC PHOTOGRA- 21/01/2016 676.50 MoS Deenihan MaxwellsPho- PHY: COM- tography MEMORA- TIONS EVENT MOS DEENI- HAN in Iveagh House Photography: 18/01/2016 895.44 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- UN60 SYM- gan tography POSIUM IN IVEAGH HOUSE with Mary Robinson, Kofi Annan and Peter Sutherland JAMES HIG- 08/02/2016 457.88 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- GINS PHOTOS gan tography JANUARY 7 2016 4 JPEGS OF 18/01/2016 68.88 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- IRISH AID gan tography AWARDS 16/06/15

313 Questions - Written Answers Description Date of Invoice Cost (€) Minister Photographer Networking 16/02/2016 551.04 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- event - Minister gan tography Flanagan Maxwell Pho- 16/02/2016 671.58 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- tography- BT gan tography Young Scientist Photography for 14/04/2016 691.26 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- Minister Flana- gan tography gan Reception Photography for 14/04/2016 912.66 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- US Delegation gan tography 24/03/2016 Good Friday 17/05/2016 1627.91 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- Agreement/ gan tography Abbey Theatre 10/04/16 jpegs Min Fla- 17/05/2016 51.66 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- nagan Reception gan tography 26/03/16 Photography 17/06/2016 947.10 Minister Flana- Maxwells at Grangegor- gan man Cemetery 26/05/16 Euros Safety 17/06/2016 843.78 Minister Flana- Photography leaflet launch gan 27/05/16 Min Flanagan 17/06/2016 17.22 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- photo new cabi- gan tography net 06/05/2016 Prince Of Wales 23/06/2016 1421.74 Minister Mc MaxwellsPho- Visit 25/05/16 Hugh tography Photography 14/07/2016 551.04 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- For Travelwise gan tography app Launch Photography 14/07/2016 1412.04 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- For VP Biden gan tography Visit June 2016 Photography for 24/08/2016 964.32 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- Italian Foreign gan tography Minister Visit Photography for 26/09/2016 757.68 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- Dutch Foreign gan tography Minister Visit 31/08/16 Photography for 14/10/2016 258.30 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- UN USG Herve gan tography Ladsous

314 11 July 2017 Description Date of Invoice Cost (€) Minister Photographer Photography 14/10/2016 499.38 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- Northern Ireland gan tography Sec Visit Photography 14/10/2016 206.64 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- for UN Youth gan tography Delegates Photography 14/10/2016 516.60 Minister Flana- MaxwellsPho- for SoS David gan tography Davis Visit Total 15,568.91 Table 3. Photography Costs 2017 to date

Description Date of Invoice Cost (€) Minister Photographer Photography 17/01/2017 575.64 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Senator Gary gan tography Harte Lecture 14/12/2016 Photography 17/01/2017 292.74 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Minister Flana- gan tography gan 21/12/2016 Photography 07/03/2017 68.88 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Minister Flana- gan tography gan email jpegs Photography 07/03/2017 516.60 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Bosnian Foreign gan tography Minister Photography 07/03/2017 551.04 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- New Zealand gan tography Foreign Minis- ter Photography 07/03/2017 740.07 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Japanese For- gan tography eign Minister Photography 07/03/2017 120.54 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- American Am- gan tography bassador Fare- well Photography 13/03/2017 1,412.04 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- All Island Civic gan tography Dialogue Media Trip 16/02/17 Photography 13/03/2017 671.58 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Australia For- gan tography eign Minister 24/02/17

315 Questions - Written Answers Description Date of Invoice Cost (€) Minister Photographer Photography 13/03/2017 413.28 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- SoS James Bro- gan tography kenshire Visit 14/02/17 Photography 13/03/2017 585.48 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- UAE For- gan tography eign Minister 20/02/17 Photography 13/03/2017 878.22 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Bundestag And gan tography Milliband Visit 23/02/17 Photography 13/03/2017 654.36 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- French Foreign gan tography Minister Visit 22/02/17 Photography 22/03/2017 14.00 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Email of Jpeg gan tography for Annual Re- port 22/03/17 Photography 25/04/2017 1,222.62 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Luxembourg gan tography Foreign Minis- ter 10/03/17 Photography 25/04/2017 585.48 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Launch of gan tography Online Pass- port Service 30/03/17 Photography 25/04/2017 189.42 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Email of Jpegs gan tography for Civic Dia- logue 17/02/17 Photography 17/05/2017 1,100.85 Minster Flana- Julien Behal Michel Bar- gan nier Border Visit 12/05/17 Photography 17/05/2017 1,168.50 Minster Flana- Photocall Ire- Global Irish gan land Civic Forum 04/05/17 Photogra- 18/05/2017 999.38 Minster Flana- Julien Behal phy Royal gan Visit Kilkenny 11/05/17

316 11 July 2017 Description Date of Invoice Cost (€) Minister Photographer Photography 23/05/2017 204.30 Minster Flana- Denis Byrne Min Flan meet- gan ing Deputy PM Vietnam 24/04/17 Photography 23/05/2017 467.40 Minster Flana- Photocall Ire- Royal Visit gan land Farmleigh Gal- lery 11/05/17 Photogra- 09/06/2017 522.75 Minister Mc Julien Behal phy Global Hugh Games Launch 24/05/17 Photography 13/06/2017 977.85 Minster Flana- Julien Behal Visit of Danish gan Foreign Minis- ter 02/06/17 Photography 13/06/2017 522.75 Minster Flana- Julien Behal Chinese Visit to gan Iveagh House 08/06/17 Photography 15/06/2017 1,136.52 Minster Flana- MaxwellsPho- Royal Visit gan tography Dublin Friday 12/05/17 Photography 13/06/2017 442.80 Minister Mc Clive Wasson Brexit Confer- Hugh ence in Letter- kenny 22/05/17 Photography 27/06/2017 1,014.75 n/a Julien Behal Visit of Prince Albert of Mo- naco 23/06/17 Photography 27/06/2017 500.00 Minster Flana- Eric Flamand Joint Ireland UK gan Messines Com- memoration 07/06/2017 Total 18,549.84 Table 4. Public Relations Training Costs

Name of Project/ 2015 2016 2017 (to date) Event Public Rela- €5,670 €3,780 No relevant pay- tions Institute of ments Ireland:Certificate for Civil Service Press Officers course

317 Questions - Written Answers Name of Project/ 2015 2016 2017 (to date) Event Communications No relevant pay- €1,968 No relevant pay- Clinic:Crisis Com- ments ments munications training Total €5,670 €5,748 €0 Table 5. Advertising Costs

Description 2015 2016 2017(to date) Iris Oifiguil €410.00 NIL 305.00 Golden Pages €6,191.82 €5,881.86 5,571.90 Media Vest €23,877.06 €12,039.67 NIL TravelWise App NIL €27,606 NIL media Plan Total 30,478.88 45,527.53 5,876.90 Table 6. Website Development Costs

Supplier 2015 2016 2017 Clear Ocean In- 14,760 ternet Solutions Action Point In- 67,785 novation Ltd. Terminal Four 21,049 32,539 57,305 Solutions Ltd. TOTAL 35,809 100,324 57,305

11/07/2017WRQ03800Northern Ireland

11/07/2017WRQ03900263. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised or plans to raise the case of a person (details supplied) with his UK counterparts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32739/17]

11/07/2017WRQ04000Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers and my officials in the Belfast Secretariat monitor this and other cases as part of their ongoing work on prison issues generally in Northern Ireland.

The person concerned was detained in March 2016 when the release licence granted to him under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement was revoked by the then Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Theresa Villiers. The case has been raised with the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) by my officials. It also has also been the subject of representations to the NIO by various public representatives in Northern Ireland.

As part of the revocation process, the independent Northern Ireland Parole Commissioners carry out a full review of the case. The Parole Commissioners are charged with taking into account the obligations on the State of the European Convention on Human Rights in making their recommendation. This includes assessing the risk to the public should the person remain at liberty. Those whose licence is revoked under this process are provided with a copy of the independent Parole Commissioners recommendation, which sets out the reasons the licence was revoked.

318 11 July 2017 I understand that a Parole Commissioners hearing held some weeks ago made a decision to uphold the revocation of this person’s license.

My officials continue to actively monitor the case.

11/07/2017WRQ04100Human Rights Cases

11/07/2017WRQ04200264. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) was arrested by the Bahraini security forces without a warrant after they raided their home; and if he will raise this case with his Bah- raini counterpart and call for their immediate and unconditional release. [32837/17]

11/07/2017WRQ04300Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): I am aware of the case referenced by the Deputy, and am concerned by reports of this person’s arrest.

Just yesterday, officials from my Department met with their counterparts from the Embassy of Bahrain in London, where they raised Ireland’s concerns about the situation of the individual in question, as well as the human rights situation in Bahrain more generally.

The deterioration of the human rights situation in Bahrain has been the subject of several Questions in this House recently, and continues to be of considerable concern. As I have previously outlined, despite repeatedly stating its commitment to improving its human rights record, the Bahraini Government appears to be targeting those who express disagreement with or criticism of the Government. A number of worrying developments suggest an increasingly restrictive attitude to those opposing or challenging the Government in any way. Statements from the Bahraini Government on its commitment to safeguarding human rights enshrined in the Bahraini Constitution ring hollow when there are so many examples of violations of the most fundamental freedoms, including those of opinion and expression (which includes the right to seek, receive and impart information and ideas), thought, conscience and religion, and movement.

Ireland attaches a high priority to safeguarding human rights defenders such as the person referenced by the Deputy. My Department continually advocates for freedom for civil society actors to operate in a safe and enabling environment, without repression. Ireland’s concerns about human rights issues and restrictions of civil liberties in Bahrain is regularly conveyed to the Bahraini authorities, including through the Bahraini Embassy in London and through Ire- land’s (non-resident) Ambassador to Bahrain.

Officials from my Department also raised ongoing human rights concerns with Bahrain in the context of its Universal Periodic Review, which took place in Geneva in May. In advance of this review, the Irish Mission to the UN in Geneva supported an event by the Bahrain Cen- ter for Human Rights, where human rights concerns in the Kingdom were discussed. Ireland also made specific reference to Bahrain in our Item 4 (Human Rights situations that require the Council’s attention) Statement at the Human Rights Council in Geneva last September, expressing concern about “restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly and association aimed at silencing the voice of civil society and human rights defenders in countries including Bahrain”.

My Department will continue to monitor the human rights situation in Bahrain, and will utilise every appropriate opportunity to raise Ireland’s concerns with the Bahraini authorities, as it has done on this occasion.

11/07/2017WRQ04400Overseas Development Aid Oversight 319 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRQ04500265. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the Cabi- net committee that covers overseas development aid. [32467/17]

11/07/2017WRQ04600Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Ciarán Cannon): The purpose of the Cabinet Committees is to provide political oversight of relevant initiatives and developments in policy areas, in particular where there is a need for coordinated action across Departments and agencies.

The Government’s policy on international development, One World One Future, was approved by Cabinet in 2013. It provides for a whole-of-government approach to international development and guides all our development efforts across Departments. In the event the Min- ister of Foreign Affairs and Trade deems it necessary for Cabinet to discuss a particular policy issue or initiative related to overseas development aid he would either raise it directly at Cabinet or bring it through an appropriate Cabinet Committee.

The Minister also regularly engages with the Oireachtas and the Joint Committee on For- eign Affairs and Trade on budget and policy issues related to Official Development Assistance and the international development programme.

11/07/2017WRR00200Immigration Data

11/07/2017WRR00300266. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the increased number of immigrants from Libya and African countries via Italy; and the increased challenges this is posing on Italy and Greece. [32466/17]

11/07/2017WRR00400Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade (Deputy Simon Coveney): The migration crisis has been one of the greatest challenges facing the EU for the last two years. It has been a particular problem for Italy and Greece as the. EU countries where the majority of migrants arrive. The EU has responded to the crisis by adopting a range of measures to deal with this mass movement of people. These have included engaging with countries of origin and transit to address the root causes of migration including through the Migration Partnership Framework; agreeing a plan to relocate migrants from Italy and Greece across the Union; the launching of Operation Sophia to disrupt people smuggling in the Mediterranean; and substantial financial assistance to countries hosting large numbers of migrants. EU Heads of State and Government concluded a landmark migration deal with Turkey in March 2016, which has resulted in a very substantial reduction in the number of migrants risking their lives at sea to enter the EU from Turkey. In the past year the focus has shifted from Greece and Turkey to the so-called Central Mediterranean Route, with some 181,000 migrants crossing from Libya to Italy in 2016. So far this year, over 85,000 people have made the journey, a 20% increase over the same period in 2016, according to figures from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). At least 2,150 others have died trying. Most migrants are coming from sub-Saharan Africa. According to UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), the top two nationalities arriving in Italy by sea in 2016 were Nigerians (21%) and Eritreans (11%). The June European Council discussed the migration crisis and agreed to provide more support for Italy, to improve its coordination efforts and try to end the tragic situation where so many people are losing their lives.

In recent weeks, the Italian government has expressed its strong concern at the increase in the numbers of migrants arriving in Italy which is placing increasing strain on reception facilities. The Interior ministers of France, Germany and Italy along with the European Commis- sioner for Migration and Home Affairs, met in Paris on 2 July and agreed, inter alia, to enhance support to the Libyan coastguard by increasing training activities and providing additional financial support while at the same time ensuring close monitoring of activities and to provide 320 11 July 2017 additional support to the IOM and the UNHCR to enable facilities in Libya to reach international standards in terms of living conditions and human rights. They also agreed to accelerate the EU Relocation scheme agreed in 2015.

Ireland is playing its part to help resolve the EU migration crisis. As part of that response we have to date taken in 785 asylum seekers and refugees from Lebanon under a UN-led Re- settlement Programme and 459 migrants from Greece under the EU Relocation mechanism agreed in 2015. Efforts are ongoing with the Italian authorities to resolve the issue of the security screening of migrants which has prevented any relocations from Italy to Ireland to date. Our naval service working with the Italian navy on a humanitarian search and rescue mission in the Mediterranean has rescued over 16,200 people.

11/07/2017WRR00500Local Authority Members

11/07/2017WRR00600267. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to provide for maternity and paternity leave for local authority councillors. [32172/17]

11/07/2017WRR00700Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy David Stanton): I have no ministerial responsibility for the terms and conditions that apply to the office of local authority councillor, which are governed under the Local Authority Acts. I should explain that local authority councillors are office holders, as opposed to employees, and they are therefore are not provided for in the Maternity Protection Acts or the Paternity Leave and Benefit Act.

11/07/2017WRR00800Commercial Rates

11/07/2017WRR00900268. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his Department or a body under its aegis has explored the prospect of applying commercial rates to development sites with or without a building or structure zoned as suitable for non agricultural development including commercial, industrial, residential and mixed land use; his views on whether this could be a means of introducing a site value tax to reduce land hoarding and reduce speculative investment in development land; and the estimated revenue intake from such a tax. [32217/17]

11/07/2017WRR01000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I can inform the Deputy that the position regarding the determination of commercial rates under Irish law is that rates are essentially a charge on the occupation of property where the occupier is liable for payment unless expressly exempted under the terms of Schedule 4 of the Valuation Act (as amended). Accordingly, rates are levied on a very wide range of commercial and industrial properties, including sites with or without buildings provided the property is capable of beneficial occupation. However, as the Deputy will be aware, the exemptions from commercial rates generally include properties such as domestic premises and those used for public religious worship and certain premises used for education and for the purpose of caring for the sick, elderly, handi- capped and disabled.

The basic premise under the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015 is that all interests including buildings and lands used or developed for any purpose (irrespective of whether such lands are surfaced) and any constructions affixed thereto are rateable unless expressly exempted under Schedule 4 of the said Acts. Specifically, Schedule 3 of the Valuation Act 2001 provides a list of relevant property for the purposes of valuation which includes “lands used or developed for any purpose (irrespective of whether such lands are surfaced) and any constructions affixed thereto which pertain to that use or development.” This provision would cover certain yards without buildings and development sites which are in beneficial occupation and accordingly liable for 321 Questions - Written Answers commercial rates.

It is the function of the Commissioner of Valuation to determine whether properties are liable for or are exempt from rates. The Commissioner is independent in the exercise of his functions under the Valuation Acts, 2001-2015 and the making of valuations for rating is his sole responsibility and the statutes do not accord me any function in this regard.

Operationally, there is a distinct separation of function between the valuation of rateable property and the setting and collection of commercial rates. As the Deputy will appreciate, the amount of rates payable by a ratepayer in any calendar year is a product of the valuation set by the Commissioner of Valuation, multiplied by the Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV) decided annually by the elected members of each local authority. The Commissioner of Valuation is independent in carrying out his functions under the Valuation Acts 2001 to 2015 and my Depart- ment has no role in this regard. On the other hand, the annual setting of the ARV is a reserved function of the elected members of each Local Authority and the Commissioner of Valuation has no function in that regard.

The basis of rateable valuation for all property is “net annual value” and is set out in Part 11 of the Valuation Act, 2001. Net annual value is the rental value for which one year with another, the building might, in its actual state, be reasonably expected to let from year to year, on the assumption that the probable average annual cost of repairs, insurance and other expenses (if any) that would be necessary to maintain the property in that state, and all rates and other taxes in respect of the property, are borne by the tenant of the property.

Regarding the Deputy’s reference to the considerations relating to the possible introduction of a site-value tax, this question raises complex taxation policy issues, the determination of which would be a matter for Government as a whole. There are varying points of view both nationally and internationally on this matter. For instance, the 2009 Report of the Commission on Taxation did not make any recommendations for the adoption of a site-value tax in the course of its extensive examination of options for local government funding. On the other hand, the National Competitiveness Council had a contrary view in 2015 when in a series of recommendations in the Council’s assessment of competitiveness challenges facing the country, recommended the possible replacement of commercial rates with a new Site Valuation Tax that would also extend to unused development land, replacing the vacant sites tax. These contrary viewpoints are illustrative of the complexity of the issues and the conflicting arguments for and against the introduction of a site valuation tax which the Government is keeping under review. Of course tax policy is primarily a matter for my colleague the Minister for Finance.

The Deputy will note that one of the recommendations in the Commission on Taxation Report was that the implementation of a modern valuation base for the commercial rates system should be advanced as a matter of priority. I wish to confirm that this recommendation is being addressed through the acceleration of the National Revaluation Programme currently underway under the direction of the Commissioner of Valuation. As the Deputy will know, the programme has already been completed in six local authorities and another ten local authorities will have been revalued by September 2017. I have been informed that the Commissioner intends to extend the programme to a further seven local authorities later this year and the final phase of the programme will commence in 2019. The provision of a modern valuation base to underpin the setting and collection of commercial rates is a very welcome development.

11/07/2017WRR01100Mental Health Commission

11/07/2017WRR01200269. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when the Assisted 322 11 July 2017 Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015 will be fully commenced; his plans to implement it in various stages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32336/17]

11/07/2017WRR01300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The Assisted Decision- Making (Capacity) Act 2015 provides a modern statutory framework to support decision-making by adults with capacity difficulties. The Act was signed into law on 30 December 2015.

New administrative processes and support measures, including the setting up of the Deci- sion Support Service within the Mental Health Commission, must be put in place before the substantive provisions of the Act can be commenced. A high-level Steering Group comprised of senior officials from the Department of Justice and Equality, the Department of Health, the Mental Health Commission and the Courts Service is overseeing the establishment and commissioning of the Decision Support Service (DSS) and this work is ongoing.

The Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 (Commencement of Certain Provi- sions) Order 2016 (S.I. No. 515 of 2016), brought some provisions of Part 1 (Preliminary and General) and Part 9 (Director of the Decision Support Service) of the Act into operation on 17 October 2016. These provisions were brought into operation in order to progress the setting up of the Decision Support Service and to enable the process of recruitment of the Director of the DSS to begin. The recruitment and appointment of the Director of the DSS, and the appointment of DSS staff, is a matter for the Mental Health Commission (a body under the Department of Health) with the approval of the Minister for Health.

It is intended that the key preparations will be put in place during the remainder of this year under the oversight of the Steering Group to allow for commencement orders for the remaining provisions of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 to be made when the Decision Support Service is ready to roll out the new decision-making support options. It is not possible at the moment to provide an exact time line for the finalisation of these commencement orders, not least because we will need to have the Director of the DSS in place to fully ascertain the time-line. The post of Director was advertised by the Public Appointments Service on 7 April and it is expected that the Director will be in place during the summer.

11/07/2017WRR01400Disability Services Data

11/07/2017WRR01500270. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress which has been made in the implementation of the comprehensive employment strategy; the funding that is required to fully implement the strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32066/17]

11/07/2017WRR01600Minister of State at the Department of Justice and Equality (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities 2015 - 2024 sets out a ten-year approach to ensuring that people with disabilities who are able to, and want to, work are supported and enabled to do so. The Strategy is a 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 323 Questions - Written Answers - Promote job retention and re-entry to work

- Provide coordinated and seamless support

- Make Work Pay

- Engage employers

To support these priorities, an action plan was developed containing almost 70 key performance indicators, each of which is connected to a responsible department or public body, and a target date for completion. The Make Work Pay Report for People with Disabilities was launched on 7 April 2017 and more information on the recommendations contained in the Re- port are available at www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/Make-Work-Pay.aspx

The Government has already taken a number of key decisions which were recommended in the Strategy, most significantly:

- The public service employment target of people with disabilities will be increased on a phased basis as set out in the Strategy from 3% to 6% over the life time of the Strategy. The Department of Justice and Equality has recently developed proposals in relation to how this can be achieved and work will get underway in very early course.

- Special public service competitions for people with disabilities will be arranged and alternative recruitment channels for people with disabilities will be opened up. The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has a key role in relation to this, as does the Public Appoint- ments Service.

- The establishment of a help line and website provide expert guidance and support to employers in relation to the employment of staff with disabilities. This service went live in March 2016.

The Strategy is monitored and overseen by the Comprehensive Employment Strategy Im- plementation Group under an independent chair, Mr. Fergus Finlay. Mr. Finlay’s first annual report in relation to progress to date is available at www.justice.ie.

The key issue in relation to the implementation of the Strategy is the coordination of departmental efforts in this area, and therefore, while individual actions in the Strategy may have additional cost implications which will require to be included in the votes of the relevant departments, taken as a whole, the focus in the Strategy is on better coordination and use of existing resources, rather than on additional funding allocations.

11/07/2017WRR01700Garda Operations

11/07/2017WRR01800271. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Garda closed circuit television points in each Garda division in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form. [32078/17]

11/07/2017WRR01900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is primarily responsible for the operation of the Garda CCTV network and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.

I have, however, been informed by the Garda authorities that there are some 35 Gar- da CCTV schemes in operation throughout the State and these are listed below. Of these, 7 schemes were granted authorisation from the Commissioner between 2012 and to 2017.

324 11 July 2017 List of Garda CCTV schemes

- Dublin South Central Division

- Dublin North Central Division

- Tralee, Kerry Division

- Cork City Division

- Bray, DMR East Division (now Wicklow)

- Dundalk, Louth Division

- Dun Laoghaire, DMR East Division

- Galway Division

- Limerick Division

- Clondalkin, DMR West Division

- Ballyfermot, DMR West Division

- Tullamore, Laois/Offaly Division

- Drogheda, Louth Division

- Tallaght, DMR South Division

- Mullingar, Laois/Offaly Division

- Waterford Division

- Portlaoise, Laois/Offaly Division

- Kilkenny Division

- Ennis, Clare Division

- Castlebar, Mayo Division

- Sligo Division

- Kinsale, Cork West Division

- Dungarvan - Waterford Division

- Athlone, Westmeath Division

- Clonmel, Tipperary Division

- Carlow, Kilkenny/Carlow Division

- Finglas, DMR West Division

- Westport, Mayo Division

7 schemes authorised by the Commissioner during the period 2013 - 2017

- Achill Sound, Mayo Division (2013) 325 Questions - Written Answers - Midleton – Cork North Division (2014)

- Tourmakeady – Mayo Division. (2015)

- Schull – Cork West Division (2015)

- Macroom – Cork East Division (2015)

- Bantry – Cork West Division (2017)

- Duleek, Meath Division (2017)

11/07/2017WRR02000Garda Strength

11/07/2017WRR02100272. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each county and each Garda district; and the Garda per capita figure for each county and for each Garda district. [32117/17]

11/07/2017WRR02200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, 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.

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the number of Garda per capita is not readily available in my Department as the recording of the population by area is a matter for the Central Statistics Office. I am, in any case, advised that ratios such as the number of Garda per head of population are not an appropriate tool to use when considering the allocation of Garda resources as they fail to take account of, among other things, the fact that crime levels and types can vary significantly among communities of similar population size.

In addition, the information requested by the Deputy concerning the number of Gardaí for each county is not readily available in respect of An Garda Síochána as Gardaí are distributed around the country on a divisional basis by the Garda Commissioner. I have received the strength of An Garda Síochána by division as of the 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are available from the Commissioner, which I will forward directly to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRR02300Garda Districts

11/07/2017WRR02400273. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and rank of gardaí stationed in each district section in County Louth in each of the years 2013 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32125/17]

11/07/2017WRR02500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): 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 Minister, 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. I am informed by the Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors

326 11 July 2017 including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division.

I have been informed that the number of Gardaí assigned to the Louth Division on the 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 298 with 29 Garda Re- serves and 25 civilians attached to the Division. When appropriate, the work of local Gardaí is supported by a number of Garda national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.

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 make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.

This plan is progressing apace. I am informed by the Commissioner, since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, that almost 1,200 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide, 59 of whom were assigned to the Louth Division. I am also informed that a further four hundred Garda recruits are scheduled to attest later this year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.

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 she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Louth Division in the coming years.

This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government’s Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.

For the Deputy’s information I have set out below the detailed information requested in relation to the number Gardaí assigned to each District in Louth in each of the years 2013 to 2016 and as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as supplied by the Commissioner.

LOUTH DIVISION STRENGTH 2013

YEAR DISTRICT STATION GD SG IN SU CS AC TOTAL 2013 ARDEE ARDEE 20 5 1 1 27 CASTLEBEL- 3 1 4 LINGHAM COLLON 4 2 6 LOUTH 1 1 TOTAL 28 8 1 1 38 DROGHEDA CLOUGHER- 3 1 4 HEAD

327 Questions - Written Answers

DROGHEDA 76 13 2 1 1 93 DUNLEER 5 5 TOTAL 84 14 2 1 1 102 DUNDALK BLACKROCK 3 1 4 CARLING- 5 1 6 FORD DRUMAD 6 1 7 DUNDALK 98 18 3 1 120 HACK- 4 1 5 BALLSCROSS OMEATH 4 4 TOTAL 120 22 3 1 146 LOUTH DIVISION STRENGTH 2014

YEAR DISTRICT STATION GD SG IN SU CS AC TOTAL 2014 ARDEE ARDEE 20 5 1 1 27 CASTLEBEL- 1 1 2 LINGHAM COLLON 4 1 5 LOUTH 1 1 TOTAL 26 7 1 1 35 DROGHE- CLOUGHER- 3 1 4 DA HEAD DROGHEDA 74 14 2 1 1 92 DUNLEER 4 1 5 TOTAL 81 16 2 1 1 101 DUNDALK BLACKROCK 3 1 4 CARLING- 5 1 6 FORD DRUMAD 6 1 7 DUNDALK 93 20 5 1 119 HACK- 4 1 5 BALLSCROSS OMEATH 4 4 TOTAL 115 24 5 1 145 LOUTH DIVISION STRENGTH 2015

YEAR DISTRICT STATION GD SG IN SU CS AC TOTAL 2015 ARDEE ARDEE 21 3 1 1 26 CASTLEBEL- 1 1 2 LINGHAM COLLON 4 1 5 LOUTH 1 1 TOTAL 27 5 1 1 34 DROGHE- CLOUGHER- 2 1 3 DA HEAD DROGHEDA 79 14 2 1 1 97 DUNLEER 5 1 6 TOTAL 86 16 2 1 1 106 DUNDALK BLACKROCK 2 1 3 CARLING- 5 1 6 FORD DRUMAD 6 1 7 DUNDALK 97 20 5 1 123 HACK- 4 4 BALLSCROSS OMEATH 4 4

328 11 July 2017

YEAR DISTRICT STATION GD SG IN SU CS AC TOTAL TOTAL 118 23 5 1 147 LOUTH DIVISION STRENGTH 2016

YEAR DISTRICT STATION GD SG IN SU CS AC TOTAL 2016 ARDEE ARDEE 18 5 1 1 25 CASTLEBEL- 1 1 2 LINGHAM COLLON 4 1 5 LOUTH 1 1 TOTAL 24 7 1 1 33 DROGHEDA CLOUGHER- 2 1 3 HEAD DROGHEDA 76 14 3 1 1 95 DUNLEER 5 1 6 TOTAL 83 16 3 1 1 104 DUNDALK BLACKROCK 3 1 4 CARLING- 4 1 5 FORD DRUMAD 6 1 7 DUNDALK 118 19 3 1 141 HACK- 5 5 BALLSCROSS OMEATH 3 3 TOTAL 139 22 3 1 165 LOUTH DIVISION STRENGTH 2017

YEAR DISTRICT STATION GD SG IN SU CS AC TOTAL 2017 ARDEE ARDEE 17 6 1 1 25 CASTLEBEL- 1 1 2 LINGHAM COLLON 4 1 5 LOUTH 1 1 TOTAL 23 8 1 1 33 DROGHEDA CLOUGHER- 2 1 3 HEAD DROGHEDA 79 15 3 1 98 DUNLEER 5 1 6 TOTAL 86 17 3 1 107 DUNDALK BLACKROCK 3 1 4 CARLING- 3 1 4 FORD DRUMAD 6 1 7 DUNDALK 113 19 3 1 136 HACK- 4 4 BALLSCROSS OMEATH 3 3 TOTAL 132 22 3 1 158

11/07/2017WRR02600Registration Certificate

11/07/2017WRR02700274. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of type 2 and 2A visas issued by the Roscommon and Longford Garda division in each of the years 2011 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form. [32153/17]

11/07/2017WRR02800Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish 329 Questions - Written Answers Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that information in relation to registrations requested by the Deputy is set-out in the following Table. The figures include new registrations and renewals of registration.

Garda Number of Stamp 2 & 2A permissions by year Division 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 (to 5th July) Long- 83 62 12 9 7 4 7 ford/ Roscom- mon

11/07/2017WRR02900Drugs Seizures

11/07/2017WRR03000275. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of successful drug seizures that have been carried out in the Dublin metropolitan west area in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32156/17]

11/07/2017WRR03100276. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of successful drug seizures that have been carried out in each of the Dublin metropolitan regions in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32157/17]

11/07/2017WRR03200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 275 and 276 together.

I have requested this information from the Garda authorities and I will write to the Deputy when it is received.

11/07/2017WRR03400Garda Operations

11/07/2017WRR03500277. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí assigned to the drugs and organised crime bureau in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32158/17]

11/07/2017WRR03600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and Units and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. I am assured by the Garda Commissioner that the allocation of Gardaí is continually monitored and reviewed taking into account all relevant factors including crime trends, demographics, and security assessments relating to the area in question so as to ensure optimal use is made of Garda human resources.

It is important to note that all Gardaí have a responsibility in the prevention and detection of criminal activity whether it be in the area of drug offences or otherwise. I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána continues to pro-actively and resolutely tackle all forms of drug crime in this jurisdiction.

In 2015 the Commissioner, established a new national Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau which brought together the Organised Crime Unit and the Garda National Drug Unit so as to 330 11 July 2017 create a robust entity to effectively tackle drugs and organised crime as it currently exists in this country. The Bureau leads out the policing strategy for tackling drugs supply and works closely with dedicated Divisional Drugs units and other national units, including the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) in targeting persons involved in the illicit sale and supply of drugs. This approach allows for the co-ordinated use of Garda resources in tackling all forms of organised crime, including illicit drug activity nationwide.

This plan is progressing apace. I am informed by the Commissioner, since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, that almost 1,200 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am also informed that a further four hundred Garda recruits are scheduled to attest later this year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.

As previously advised the Commissioner established the Bureau in 2015. Consequently, the information below supplied by the Commissioner in relation to the strength of the Bureau refers to the years 2015 to 2016 and as of 31 May this year, the latest date for which figures are readily available.

Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau Strength 2015 -2017

Year - 2015 87 2016 83 2017* 81 *as of 31 May 2017

11/07/2017WRR03700Garda Deployment

11/07/2017WRR03800278. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí 331 Questions - Written Answers assigned to the dedicated drugs unit in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32159/17]

11/07/2017WRR03900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will appreciate the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, 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 all Gardaí have a responsibility in the prevention and detection of criminal activity whether it be in the area of drug offences crime or otherwise. I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána continues to pro-actively and resolutely tackle all forms of drug crime in this jurisdiction.

In 2015 the Commissioner established a new national Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. The Bureau continues to lead out the policing strategy for tackling drugs by demand reduction and supply reduction strategies. In this regard the Bureau continues its policy of working with Divisional Drug Units nationwide in tackling supply reduction at local level. This work is further supported by other national units, including the Criminal Assets Bureau, in targeting persons involved in the illicit sale and supply of drugs. This approach allows for the co-ordinated use of Garda resources in tackling all forms of organised crime, including illicit drug activity nationwide. Multi-disciplinary approaches are also utilised to ensure that those involved in illicit activity are effectively targeted including through the use of the proceeds of crime legislation, money laundering legislation and the powers of the Criminal Assets Bureau. I am informed that this approach adopts good practice in implementing a co-ordinated use of Garda resources and in utilising available criminal law to its fullest extent in tackling all forms of organised crime, including drug trafficking.

This plan is progressing apace. I am informed by the Commissioner, since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, that almost 1,200 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am also informed that a further four hundred Garda recruits are scheduled to attest later this year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.

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 she needs to allow her to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across the organisation including the Di- visional Drugs Units.

For the Deputy’s information, set out below is the number of Gardaí assigned to the Divi- sional Drug Units in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as supplied by the Commissioner.

Divisional Drugs Unit Personnel 2012-2017 332 11 July 2017

Division 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 D.M.R.South 13 11 19 19 13 11 Central D.M.R. 20 13 20 20 30 18 North Central D.M.R.North 31 27 16 25 21 18 D.M.R.East 13 13 10 10 9 8 D.M.R.South 30 23 17 16 17 19 D.M.R.West 28 26 24 26 20 17 Waterford 10 9 5 5 5 6 Wexford 6 4 1 6 6 6 Kilkenny/ 7 7 5 7 4 7 Carlow Tipperary 8 7 7 8 9 6 Cork City 26 29 28 15 20 17 Cork North 9 9 5 5 5 5 Cork West 5 4 3 4 3 3 Kerry 6 8 10 9 7 11 Limerick 12 11 12 14 12 15 Donegal 10 10 8 7 4 4 Cavan/ 5 0 0 0 0 5 Monaghan Sligo/Leitrim 8 6 8 7 7 6 Louth 7 6 6 6 6 6 Clare 7 6 7 5 5 5 Mayo 5 5 5 5 5 5 Galway 11 12 8 12 9 8 Roscommon/ 6 7 6 6 6 5 Longford Westmeath 7 7 6 5 6 8 Meath 6 4 4 5 8 7 Kildare 2 2 6 7 8 8 Laois/Offaly 3 0 3 0 0 5 Wicklow 3 4 4 4 11 10 Total 304 270 253 258 256 249 *Up to 31 May 2017

11/07/2017WRR04000Courts Service

11/07/2017WRR04100279. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will clarify the ownership of a building (details supplied). [32165/17]

11/07/2017WRR04200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will be aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts, including the provision of accommodation for court sittings, is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions.

However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that Birr Courthouse is owned by the Courts Service and has been closed since 1 January 2014.

333 Questions - Written Answers The Courts Service has also informed me that it has no plans to reuse the venue in the future and that, in accordance with its policy when a building owned by the Court Service is no longer required for court use, the Courts Service is generally willing to transfer it to another public body for an alternative public use. While there have been some exploratory discussions with some public bodies in the past about a possible transfer, these were not pursued and Birr Courthouse remains in Courts Service ownership.

11/07/2017WRR04300Garda Complaints Procedures

11/07/2017WRR04400280. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of complaints lodged with An Garda Síochána regarding tweets in each of the years 2007 to 2016 and to date in 2017; the number of cautions issued in this regard in each of the years 2007 to 2016 and to date in 2017; the number of prosecutions arising from the complaints, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32173/17]

11/07/2017WRR04500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised that it is not possible from the manner in which information/data is recorded on PULSE to answer the specific questions tabled by the Deputy, and to attempt to do so would require a disproportionate use of time and resources.

11/07/2017WRS00200Prison Service

11/07/2017WRS00300281. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procedures in place for dealing with family visits of life sentence prisoners with reference to the account taken of the psychological impact on children of long term estrangement and lack of physical contact with a parent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32177/17]

11/07/2017WRS00400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that its Strategic Plan 2016-2018 sets out the commitment of the Irish Prison Service to strengthen family supports to facilitate on-going contact with prisoners, including those serving life sentences, while in custody and their reintegration post release, with appropriate supports and programmes.

The Director General of the Irish Prison Service established the Families & Imprisonment Group, and tasked the group with examining existing visiting facilities for all prisoners and in particular to address the needs of children and families as highlighted in the report published by the Irish Penal Reform Trust titled “Picking up the Pieces: The Rights and Needs of Children and Families Affected by Imprisonment”.

The Families & Imprisonment Implementation Group is currently overseeing the delivery of the actions identified and is chaired by a prison Governor and includes representatives from the Childhood Development Initiative, the Psychology Service, the Probation Service, the Pris- on Officer’s Association and Tusla. A key goal is to establish a model of through-care to parents returning to the community in partnership with Tusla and other community based organisations. A number of significant objectives have been achieved so far; most notably enhanced staff training, delivery of the ‘Parents Plus’ parenting programme on a pilot basis in Limerick Prison, the establishment of more family-friendly visits, and refurbishment of visit spaces.

334 11 July 2017 Following a period of consultation with a range of non-government organisations, the Irish Prison Service forged a partnership with the Childhood Development Initiative and the Parents Plus Charity to introduce a dedicated family and imprisonment programme on a pilot basis called ‘Family Links’ which commenced in Limerick Prison in September 2014 with the aim to improve the visiting experience for families, improve staff awareness of the effects of imprisonment on families, and to support the family unit with the introduction of a parenting programme.

The Parents Plus Charity and Childhood Development Initiative have worked with the Irish Prison Service to tailor the ‘Parents Plus’ parenting programme to meet the need of parents in prison. Family Liaison Officers in Limerick Prison facilitate parenting skills course for prisoners, and ‘Bedford Row’ charity works simultaneously to deliver the parenting programme in the community. This programme has been successfully delivered to 24 prisoners. An evaluation of the Family Links Programme in Limerick was launched by the Tánaiste, Frances Fitzgerald TD on Monday 13th February 2017.

Enhancements to visit facilities in a number of prisons is being gradually rolled out under the Small Works Scheme. Funding was awarded to St. Vincent de Paul to extend their Visitor Centre facilities to Wheatfield Prison. The Irish Prison Service has allocated funding to appoint a Family Links Coordinator and to extend the Family Links model to Wheatfield Place of Detention and to Cork Prison in 2017, to include family related courses and programmes, staff training and support, community follow-up and partnership, communications and enhanced visiting facilities.

All of our prisons facilitate visits on Saturdays to take account of the needs of families visiting persons in custody. Sunday visits are allowed to the two Open Centres (Loughan House and Shelton Abbey) and to enhanced prisoners in Cork and Portlaoise Prisons

11/07/2017WRS00500Prisoner Complaints Procedures

11/07/2017WRS00600282. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there are grievance procedures and protocols in place for families to raise matters regarding family visits which are so important in relation to cases of where a parent is in custody, particularly on a long term basis. [32178/17]

11/07/2017WRS00700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to advise the Dep- uty that all visitors can raise any issue regarding visits with the supervisor of the visits area on the day they are visiting. Alternatively they can write to the Governor of the Prison outlining their complaint and issues.

In addition, the Irish Prison Service has in place a Prisoner Complaints System, which is administered by the Operations Directorate in the Irish Prison Service Headquarters and is governed by the provisions of S.I. 11 of 2013 and Rule 57 of the Prison Rules 2007.

This system provides multiple categories of complaint (A-F), category E complaints are complaints made by visitors to the prison. Complaint forms are available in all areas where the visitors have access to. On receipt of a complaint, a written acknowledgment shall be sent to the complainant which should contain the name of the prison complaints coordinator.

I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that its Strategic Plan 2016-2018 sets out the commitment of the Irish Prison Service to strengthen family supports to facilitate on-going contact with prisoners while in custody and their reintegration post release, with appropriate supports and programmes.

335 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRS00800Peace Commissioners Appointments

11/07/2017WRS00900283. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the persons that have been appointed as peace commissioners since 2011; the age of the appointees; the grounds upon which they were appointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32213/17]

11/07/2017WRS01000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): Peace Commissioners are appointed by the Minister for Justice and Equality under Section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924.

My Department is reliant upon the Peace Commissioners themselves and other interested parties, to advise of changes which occur subsequent to appointment. For that reason, the list of Peace Commissioners is not automatically updated to take account of changes of address, availability or status as they occur. Therefore, the list I have provided separately to the Deputy must be viewed in that context. Individuals seeking details of Peace Commissioners available in their areas are advised to contact the Peace Commissioner Unit of this Department or make inquiries at their local Garda Station where this information can be obtained.

I am advised that it is not possible to provide information in relation to the age of Peace Commissioners as its collation would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort, which cannot be justified where there are other significant demands on resources.

An application for appointment may be submitted by a person who is interested in obtaining an appointment or by a third party in respect of a person considered suitable for appointment. Nominations are generally received from public representatives. A local Garda Superintendent can also request an appointment in a particular area in the public interest.

There is no qualifying examination involved but appointees are required to be of good character and they are usually well established in the local community. Persons who are members of professions or employed in occupations which engage in legal work or related activities and members of the clergy are, as a matter of practice, not appointed because of their occupation. Public Servants are usually only appointed where the performance of their official duties requires an appointment (i.e. ex-officio). In the list provided, those Peace Commissioners not linked to a Garda Sub-District are ex-officio appointees. Persons convicted of serious offences are considered unsuitable for appointment.

The fact that an applicant or nominee may be suitable for appointment, does not in itself provide any entitlement to appointment because appointments are made at the discretion of the Minister for Justice and Equality with regard to the needs of particular areas.

11/07/2017WRS01100Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRS01200284. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within his Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods and or changes to costs within his Department and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32250/17]

11/07/2017WRS01300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy may be aware, all funding to my Department’s Vote for 2017 was allocated and published in the Re- vised Estimates Volume last December. However, expenditure across the overall Justice Vote

336 11 July 2017 Group, consisting of eight Votes, is carefully monitored and managed with the objective of achieving the best value for the taxpayer with any underspends redirected as needed. The expenditure profile of the Department in 2018 will be a matter for the 2018 estimates process, which is currently underway and will be finalised in Budget 2018 in October.

11/07/2017WRS01400Prison Inspections

11/07/2017WRS01500285. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if inspection reports on individual prisons have been submitted to him by the Office of the Inspector of Pris- ons and are awaiting publication; and if so, the reason for the delay in publication. [32272/17]

11/07/2017WRS01600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As a matter of course, all reports made by the Office of the Inspector of Prisons are published as soon as possible by my Department on its website - www.justice.ie. There is only one report outstanding which has yet to be published. That concerns a report from the Acting Inspector of Prisons on the Training Unit which was located on the Mountjoy campus in Dublin.

Arrangements are currently being made for publication of the report and this will be done in the near future.

11/07/2017WRS01700Prisoner Complaints Procedures

11/07/2017WRS01800286. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of complaints made by prisoners to the Irish Prison Service in 2016, by category of complaint per prison. [32273/17]

11/07/2017WRS01900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to inform the Deputy that it is not possible to collect the information required within the timeframe allot- ted. This information is currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy once it becomes available.

11/07/2017WRS02000Prisoner Complaints Procedures

11/07/2017WRS02100287. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of category A complaints made to the Irish Prison Service in 2016; the number of these complaints that were upheld or dismissed; and the average length of time it took to complete the complaints process and communicate the outcome to prisoners. [32274/17]

11/07/2017WRS02200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to advise the Dep- uty that the Irish Prison Service currently operates a prisoner complaints process governed by S.I. No.11 of 2013, namely Rules 57 A and 57 B of the Prison Rules 2007.

The Irish Prison Service in 2012 introduced a complaints manual that specified differing categories of complaint e.g. Category A through F, this process assigns differing categories to differing investigative levels of prison management within prisons.

Category A complaints are defined in Rule 57B(1) of the Prison Rules (Amendment) 2013 as complaints alleging to :- “assault or use of excessive force against a prisoner, or ill treatment, racial abuse, discrimination, intimidation, threats or any other conduct against a prisoner of a nature and gravity to bring discredit on the Irish Prison Service”.

337 Questions - Written Answers I can inform the Deputy that 76 Category A complaints were received in 2016, the following table represents the breakdown of complaints received by prison and the breakdown of the outcomes of all complaints. Overall, for the year 2016, 76 Category A complaints were received. Of these, 6 were upheld, 52 were not upheld, 0 were not proved, 8 were terminated under section 57B(5)(C) of the Prison Rules, 2007 and 10 are currently ongoing.

I am advised that the information requested regarding the average length of time it took to complete the complaints process and communicate the outcome to prisoners is not available at present. However, I am informed that an internal review of all complaints files is currently being carried out by the Irish Prison Service, the results of which will be available in due course.

Prison No. of Category A complaints received in 2016 Mountjoy 7 Dochas 2 St Pats 0 Cloverhill 6 Wheatfield 11 Arbour Hill 1 Portlaoise 6 Midlands 21 Cork 4 Castlerea 15 Limerick 3 Training Unit 0 Total 76 OUTCOME Upheld 6 Not Upheld 52 Not Proved 0 Terminated 57B (5) ( c ) 8 Incomplete 10 Total 76

11/07/2017WRS02300Prison Accommodation

11/07/2017WRS02400288. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of remand prisoners that are mixed with sentenced prisoners across the prison estate; and the prisons in which this is occurring. [32275/17]

11/07/2017WRS02500289. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of sentenced prisoners currently held in Cloverhill Remand Prison; and the number of sentenced prisoners that are sharing cells with remand prisoners in that prison. [32276/17]

11/07/2017WRS02600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 288 and 289 together.

Rule 71 of the 2007 Prison Rules refers to Separate Accommodation and states:

‘Unconvicted prisoners shall, in so far as is practicable and subject to the maintenance of

338 11 July 2017 good order and safe and secure custody, be accommodated in areas that are separate from those in which convicted prisoners are accommodated or to which convicted prisoners have access, and convicted prisoners shall, as far as is practicable, not be permitted access to areas to which unconvicted prisoners have access at those times when unconvicted prisoners have such access.

The Deputy may be aware that there is currently one prison in the Estate dedicated as a remand prison, namely Cloverhill Prison. I wish to also advise the Deputy that there are currently major works being undertaken in Cloverhill Prison in order to fully upgrade the fire alarm system and sprinklers, resulting in the temporary closure of parts of the prison and reduced bed capacity. Whilst every effort is taken by individual local prison management to minimise the accommodation of remand and sentenced prisoners together - in accordance with the Prison Rules - the Deputy will appreciate that it is not always possible to guarantee same.

I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that on Thursday 6 July 2017 a total number of 92 remand prisoners were accommodated alongside sentenced prisoners broken down as follows.

Establishment Name Remand prisoners mixed with sentenced prisoners Castlerea Prison 9 Cloverhill Remand Prison 18 Cork Prison 10 Limerick Prison (Female) 1 Limerick Prison (Male) 16 Midlands Prison 21 Mountjoy Prison (Female) 12 Mountjoy Prison (Male) 0 Portlaoise 4 Wheatfield Place of Detention 1 Total 92 I am further advised by the Irish Prison Service that on the same date there were 24 sentenced prisoners in custody in Cloverhill Remand Prison. Six of those were in single occupancy cells while 18 were sharing a cell with remand prisoners on that date.

11/07/2017WRS02800Prisoner Health

11/07/2017WRS02900290. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of beds allocated to the Irish Prison Service in the Central Mental Hospital in Dundrum; the number of beds that will be allocated to the Irish Prison Service in the new national forensic hospital in Portrane; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32277/17]

11/07/2017WRS03000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that persons in custody who currently require residential mental health treatment can be admitted to the Central Mental Hospital following assessment by the National Forensic Mental Health Service on the basis of assessed clinical need. This will also apply in regard to the admission of any person in custody to the services of the National Forensic Mental Health Services in the new facility in Portrane, which will have an increased capacity.

The Irish Prison Service has confirmed that it has access to a limited number of places in the Central Mental Hospital for prisoners who require residential mental health treatment. The waiting list for admission is managed by the National Forensic Mental Health Service on the 339 Questions - Written Answers basis of assessed clinical need.

11/07/2017WRS03100Prisoner Health

11/07/2017WRS03200291. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of recorded self harm incidents per prison in 2016. [32278/17]

11/07/2017WRS03300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that it does not currently hold data on the number of recorded self harm incidents in the form requested.

However, the Irish Prison Service has also advised that it has put a process in place whereby every incident of self harm is being examined by a multi-disciplinary team. Data on self harm is now being collated by way of a newly developed system for the recording of incidents of self harm. This data will be used for the purposes of informing IPS policy and procedures which are designed to minimise the incidence of self harm and suicide in the prison population.

11/07/2017WRS03400Prison Drug Treatment Services

11/07/2017WRS03500292. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the therapeutic services and treatment programmes that are available for prisoners with addiction issues; the waiting lists for referrals to such services and treatments; and the number of drug free wings in prisons here. [32279/17]

11/07/2017WRS03600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I have been advised by the Irish Prison Service that any prisoner who enters the custody of the Irish Prison Services while presenting with addiction issues has access to addiction services, and is actively encouraged to engage with those services.

The treatments available are based on the principles of best practice, and are similar to those available in the community setting. This includes access to harm reduction methods, de- toxification, stabilisation, and opiate replacement therapies. These interventions are based on a multi-professional approach to ensure that the prisoners motivation, commitment and likeli- hood of success are always at the centre of planned care.

The Irish Prison Service has advised that the healthcare team which delivers these treatments includes, inter alia, GP Specialist Addiction services, Consultant Addiction psychiatrist, specialist addiction nurses, addiction counsellors, addiction links workers, pharmacists, primary care GP’s, and prison nurses.

The Irish Prison Service also works very closely with the Probation Service, community, voluntary, and statutory agencies to maintain a pathway of care ensuring supports remain in place for prisoners on their release from custody.

All prisoners have access to group and individual counselling services where they can address their own personal requirements, and specific support arrangements can be put in place and implemented during the prisoners period in custody. The person in custody can also benefit from peer support groups, music therapy, and a 9 week psycho-social based programme similar to community residential treatment services, which assists the person in remaining drug free.

11/07/2017WRS03700Prisoner Discipline 340 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRS03800293. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of recorded incidents in which control and restraint techniques were used by the Irish Prison Service in 2016; and the number of such incidents per prison. [32280/17]

11/07/2017WRS03900294. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of incidents that the Irish Prison Service managed to deescalate through conflict resolution techniques or restorative practices in 2016; and the number of such incidents per prison. [32281/17]

11/07/2017WRS04000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 293 and 294 together.

De-escalation techniques play a significant part in the control and restraint training for prison staff and are deployed on a daily basis throughout the prison estate.

It is impossible to quantify the number of incidents the Irish Prison Service manage to deescalate. Many incidents are resolved at different levels, where de-escalation techniques are used. These vary from officers on the landings on a personal level, to planned incidents involving control & restraint teams.

I wish to advise the Deputy that the number of recorded incidents where a Control and Re- straint team was deployed in 2016 is set out in the following table.

As part of a control & restraint team a staff member, with a video recording camera, records footage of the event. The majority of the incidents in which a control & restraint teams was deployed did not require the physical removal of the prisoner.

Prison C & R Recorded incidents Arbour Hill 0 Castlerea 5 Cloverhill 102 Cork 5 Dochas 0 Limerick 0 Midlands 6 Mountjoy 273 Portlaoise 373 Training Unit 0 Wheatfield 62

11/07/2017WRS04200Prison Service Staff

11/07/2017WRS04300295. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of fully designated integrated sentenced management officers per prison across the prison service; and the average caseload per ISM officer. [32282/17]

11/07/2017WRS04400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I can advise the Deputy that a total of 24 dedicated Integrated Sentence Management Coordinators are now operational in all prisons and open centres. The allocation of dedicated staff in each establishment greatly enhances the effectiveness of the sentence management system and facilitates the growing numbers of prisoners participating in the process.

Newly committed prisoners with a sentence of greater than one year are eligible to take part

341 Questions - Written Answers in Integrated Sentence Management. This involves a specific orientation in the delivery of services to prisoners and an emphasis on prisoners taking greater personal responsibility for their own development through active engagement with both specialist and non-specialist services in the prisons.

The end result is a prisoner centred, multi-disciplinary approach to working with prisoners with provision for initial assessment, goal setting and periodic review to measure progress. Important issues such as accommodation, employment or education are addressed to help the prisoner resettle into the community on release and reduce the risk of re-offending.

Integrated Sentence Management Coordinators are also active participants in sentence planning for certain categories of prisoners serving less than one year, for example, female prisoners, prisoners who have declared their risk of homelessness on release, or prisoners participating in the Community Support Scheme. The Integrated Sentence Management process has played a key role in the success of the Community Return Scheme.

The Irish Prison Service is currently collating the figures requested in relation to the caseload of the Integrated Sentence Management Coordinators and will forward this information directly to the Deputy as soon as it is to hand

11/07/2017WRT00225Educational Services for Prisoners

11/07/2017WRT00300296. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of hours and days per week that schools are currently open per prison; the number of prisoners attending school in each prison; and the extent to which staff shortages are resulting in school closures. [32283/17]

11/07/2017WRT00400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised that the Irish Prison Service provides a wide range of rehabilitative programmes to those in custody that include education, vocational training, healthcare, psychiatric, psychological, counselling, welfare and spiritual services. These programmes can offer purposeful activity to those in custody while serving their sentences and encouraging them to lead law abiding lives on release. These programmes are available in all prisons and all people in custody are eligible to use the services.

The development of prisoner programmes forms a central part of the Irish Prison Service Three Year Strategic Plan 2016 - 2018. There is a clear commitment in the Strategy to enhance sentence planning through Integrated Sentence Management and the delivery of prison based rehabilitative programmes.

As well as seeking to draw on best practice in adult and further education in the community, there has been a lot of curriculum development over the years that is specific to prison circumstances, such as courses on addiction, health issues and offending behaviour.

The Department of Education and Skills provides an allocation of 220 whole time teacher equivalents to the Prison Service through the Education and Training Boards (ETB). Education in prisons is delivered in partnership between the ETBs and the Irish Prison Service with a focus on providing education which is quality assured, student centred and which facilitates lifelong learning. The partnership endeavours to meet the needs of students through helping them cope with their sentence, achieve personal development and prepare for life after release. A broad and flexible curriculum is provided which ranges from basic literacy classes and peer-led tutoring to Open University. There is an increasing focus on QQI accreditation as the modular structure best meets the needs of students in prison. On some occasions, people in custody may have to wait for a place to become available on an educational programme. 342 11 July 2017 In general prison cells are unlocked at approximately 8.15 am each morning for breakfast. People in custody collect breakfast and return to cells, which are then locked from 8.45 a.m. to 9.15 a.m. Cells are again unlocked for those in custody to attend work, school , visits and exercise. People in custody return for lunch at 12 noon and cells are locked at 12.30 p.m. Afternoon unlock commences at 2.15 p.m. and people in custody return to structured activities in schools, workshops and visits. Evening tea is served from 4 p.m. and cells are locked from 4.30 p.m. to 5.20 p.m. when evening recreation commences until all cells are locked at 7.30 p.m.

The Irish Prison Service advises that 42% of the people in custody during the month of March 2017 participated in Education activities. See table outlining participation figures for March 2017.

Education Unit No. of Teachers MarchPopula- MarchParticipa- March2017% WTE’s tion tion

Arbour Hill 10.50 662 424 64.0 Castlerea 16.23 1570 674 42.9 Cloverhill 1755 386 22.0 8.00 Cork 19.10 1386 758 54.7 Dochas 581 325 55.9 7.00 Limerick 16.05 1220 514 42.1 Loughan 590 469 79.5 9.52 Midlands 34.20 4119 1839 44.6 Mountjoy 17.23 1897 691 36.4 Portlaoise 19.64 1149 486 42.3 Shelton Abbey 557 303 54.4 7.41 Mountjoy West 20.05 796 431 54.1 Training Unit 385 118 30.6 7.50 Wheatfield 20.10 2280 546 23.9 212.53 18947 7964 42.0

The Prison Service advises that there has been a small number of closures of schools in recent months, due to staff shortages, however complete closure of Prison Education Centres is infrequent and Prison Governors only close the entire school when there is no other option.

It should also be noted that the levels of access to services by prisoners is dependent on staffing levels on any particular day. Prisons may experience staffing shortfalls on any given day for a number of reasons, including the number of escorts of prisoners to court or prisoners being admitted to hospital which requires staff to leave the prison. On such occasions, prisons are now implementing Regime Management plans which help to ensure that access to services is maximised by directing resources at those prisoners wishing to avail of Work training and other regimes and through the implementation of a number of operational measures such as staggered feeding times for prisoners and rotational unlock of landings.

343 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRT00550Educational Services for Prisoners

11/07/2017WRT00600297. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the access that prisoners held on restricted regimes have to training and education, specifically in Wheatfield place of detention and Mountjoy Prison. [32284/17]

11/07/2017WRT00700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I can advise the Deputy that the restriction of a prisoner’s regime can occur due to a number of factors including the protection of vulnerable prisoners. This is provided for under Rule 63 of the Prison Rules 2007. A prisoner may, either at his or her own request or when the Governor considers it necessary, in so far as is practicable and subject to the maintenance and good order and safe and secure custody, be kept separate from other prisoners who are reasonably likely to cause significant harm to him/her.

In addition, the Governor may decide, for the maintenance of good order in the prison, to remove a prisoner from general association or structured activity to reduce the negative effect that a prisoner or prisoners may have on the general population. This is provided for under Rule 62 of the Prison Rules 2007. There may also be a smaller number of prisoners who would be restricted for medical (Rule 64) or discipline reasons (Rule 67).

Wheatfield Place of Detention provides education to prisoners on a restricted regime who wish to engage with education. Each group from the different landings can access education at different time slots and on different days during the week.

Prisoners on a restricted regime in Wheatfield Place of Detention can also avail of access to exercise, training, gymnasium, library and recreation. All of the activities that are available to other prisoners in open association are provided to this cohort of prisoners in so far as it is practicable, taking into account security and safety concerns daily. The periods of activity are allocated and rotated to share out as evenly as possible the periods of the day, that is, morning, afternoon and evening.

Within Mountjoy Prison, the prisoners in the High Support Unit, prisoners on Detox Pro- grammes and those on Protection are on restricted regimes. These prisoners are provided with access to the Mountjoy Prison education centre - those on Detox Programmes attend education all day Monday; the rest of the week is devoted to the detox programmes so Monday is the only free time available for education and this is scheduled into their weekly detox programme. Education, cookery classes and mindfulness meditation are provided in the High Support Unit.

Classes are provided to Protection prisoners in Mountjoy Prison on Tuesday and Friday mornings and those prisoners are provided with reading materials, education and art resources. In relation to access to Work Training, protection prisoners in Mountjoy accommodated on the A wing have access to training in computers and industrial skills.

11/07/2017WRT00800Educational Services for Prisoners

11/07/2017WRT00900298. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners in the closed prison estate that have daily access to a minimum of seven hours of educational and vocational programmes from Monday to Friday. [32285/17]

11/07/2017WRT01000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that it endeavours to allow prisoners to spend as much time as possible each day out of their cell or room. Rule 27(3) of the Prison Rules 2007 states “In so far as is practicable,

344 11 July 2017 each convicted prisoner should be engaged in authorised structured activity for a period of not less than five hours on each of five days in each week”.

In general prison cells are unlocked at approximately 8.15 a.m. each morning for breakfast. Prisoners collect breakfast and return to cells, which are then locked from 8.45am to 9.15am, when cells are again unlocked so that they can attend work, school, visits and exercise. They return for lunch at 12 noon and cells are locked at 12.30 p.m. Afternoon unlock commences at 2.15 p.m. and people in custody return to structured activities in schools, workshops and visits. Evening tea is served from 4 p.m. and cells are locked from 4.30 p.m. to 5.20 p.m. when evening recreation commences until all cells are locked at 7.30 p.m.

I am further advised by the Irish Prison Service that it provides a wide range of rehabilitative programmes to persons in custody that include education, vocational training, healthcare, psychiatric, psychological, counselling, welfare and spiritual services. These programmes offer purposeful activity to those in custody while serving their sentences and encourage them to lead law abiding lives on release. These programmes are available in all prisons and all persons in custody are eligible to use the services.

11/07/2017WRT01100Prisoner Data

11/07/2017WRT01200299. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of family visits requested in 2016; and the number of such visits refused in 2016. [32286/17]

11/07/2017WRT01300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to advise the Dep- uty that the number of family visits for 2016 was in excess of 130,000 visits.

There are two types of panel for each prisoner, namely a standard panel which predominantly features family and friends and a professional panel which features legal personnel and any other person providing a service. All persons entering a prison must be on a prisoner’s visitor panel which are nominated by the prisoner only.

The level of regime a prisoner enjoys will determine the number of visits they are entitled to per week. Prisoners can also avail of special visits outside their normal visits entitlement on approval from the Governor of the prison. These are normally approved for compassionate reasons, for example, in the event of a family bereavement or personal issue. There are occasions where these requests for special visits may be refused. However, these are not centrally recorded.

I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that its Strategic Plan 2016-2018 sets out the commitment of the Irish Prison Service to strengthen family supports to facilitate ongoing contact with prisoners while in custody and their reintegration post release, with appropriate supports and programmes.

345 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRT01400Prison Visiting Regulations

11/07/2017WRT01500300. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the Irish Prison Service facilitates evening and weekend visits to take into account the needs of children and families of prisoners. [32287/17]

11/07/2017WRT01600301. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the Govern- ment’s commitment to better outcomes, brighter futures, the national policy framework for children and young people 2014-2020 to ensure adequate access by children to an imprisoned parent in a child-friendly setting. [32288/17]

11/07/2017WRT01700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 300 and 301 together.

The Families & Imprisonment Implementation Group is currently overseeing the delivery of the actions identified. The group is chaired by a prison Governor and includes representatives from the Childhood Development Initiative, the Psychology Service, the Probation Ser- vice, the Prison Officer’s Association and Tusla. A key goal is to establish a model of through care to parents returning to the community in partnership with Tusla and other community based organisations. A number of significant objectives have been achieved so far; most notably enhanced staff training, delivery of the ‘Parents Plus’ parenting programme on a pilot basis in Limerick Prison, the establishment of more family-friendly visits, and refurbishment of visit spaces.

Following a period of consultation with a range of non-government organisations, the Irish Prison Service forged a partnership with the Childhood Development Initiative and the Parents Plus Charity to introduce a dedicated family and imprisonment programme on a pilot basis called ‘Family Links’ which commenced in Limerick Prison in September 2014 with the aim to improve the visiting experience for families, improve staff awareness of the effects of imprisonment on families, and to support the family unit with the introduction of a parenting programme.

The Parents Plus Charity and Childhood Development Initiative have worked with the Irish Prison Service to tailor the ‘Parents Plus’ parenting programme to meet the need of parents in prison. Family Liaison Officers in Limerick Prison facilitate parenting skills course for prisoners, and ‘Bedford Row’ charity works simultaneously to deliver the parenting programme in the community. This programme has been successfully delivered to 24 prisoners. An evaluation of the Family Links Programme in Limerick was launched by the Tánaiste, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, on Monday 13 February 2017.

Enhancements to visit facilities in a number of prisons is being gradually rolled out under the Small Works Scheme. Funding was awarded to St. Vincent de Paul to extend their Visitor Centre facilities to Wheatfield Prison. The Irish Prison Service has allocated funding to appoint a Family Links Coordinator and to extend the Family Links model to Wheatfield Place of 346 11 July 2017 Detention and to Cork Prison in 2017, to include family related courses and programmes, staff training and support, community follow-up and partnership, communications and enhanced visiting facilities.

All of our prisons facilitate visits on Saturdays to take account of the needs of families visiting persons in custody. Sunday visits are allowed to the two Open Centres (Loughan House and Shelton Abbey) and to enhanced prisoners in Cork and Portlaoise Prisons. Evening visits, up to 7 p.m., are accommodated in Cork Prison Monday to Friday.

11/07/2017WRT01900Prisoner Privacy

11/07/2017WRT02000302. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there have been prosecutions of prison staff since 2012 for breaching the privacy of prisoners. [32289/17]

11/07/2017WRT02100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am not aware of any criminal prosecutions of the type referred to by the Deputy. It should also be noted that prosecutions are a matter for the Director of Public Prosecutions, who is independent in the performance of her functions.

11/07/2017WRT02200Prisoner Privacy

11/07/2017WRT02300303. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of investigations into breaches of privacy that have taken place since 2012. [32290/17]

11/07/2017WRT02400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to inform the Deputy that it is not possible to collect the information required within the time frame allot- ted. This information is currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy once it becomes available.

11/07/2017WRT02500Prison Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRT02600304. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of independent living skills units currently available across the prison estate. [32291/17]

11/07/2017WRT02700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that the first independent living skills unit was opened in Wheatfield Place of Detention in late 2016. The purpose of the unit is to assist prisoners serving long sentences to develop clear and realistic goals in the context of successful sentence progression. The unit replicates community living in as so far as is possible within a closed prison environment and encourages prisoners to take responsibility over their own positive Sentence Management.

The Irish Prison Service further informs me that a second independent living skills unit is planned for Mountjoy Prison and is anticipated to open later this year.

11/07/2017WRT02800Prisoner Data

11/07/2017WRT02900305. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of prisoners across the closed prison estate that have access to communal dining. [32292/17]

347 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRT03000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service (IPS) that there are no facilities for communal dining in the closed prisons, with the exception of the Grove Unit in Castlerea Prison (approximately 38 prisoners) and the In- dependent Living Skills Unit in Wheatfield Prison (approximately 12 prisoners). I am further informed by the Irish Prison Service that a number of enhanced regime prisoners involved in activities such as laundry, kitchen, and grounds maintenance duties in the closed prisons avail of communal dining facilities during the working day. This number fluctuates on a daily basis but would amount to around 290 prisoners.

11/07/2017WRT03100Refugee Data

11/07/2017WRT03200306. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the commitments the Government has made in terms of accepting refugees and unaccompanied minors here; the number of persons to date in 2017 that have been accepted under the various resettlement and relocation programmes; the number of unaccompanied minors that have arrived here to date in 2017; if he expects Ireland to meet its commitment of accepting 4,000 refugees by the end of 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32309/17]

11/07/2017WRT03300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy may be aware, in September 2015, the Government established the Irish Refugee Protection Pro- gramme and agreed to accept up to 4,000 persons overall under Resettlement and Relocation Programmes at the earliest time possible.

As regards the Resettlement strand of the programme, we had taken in 519 of our original commitment of 520 under the EU Resettlement Agreement of July 2015 by the end of 2016, a full year ahead of the European Commission’s schedule. As a result, last year, the Government doubled its commitment under resettlement to 1,040. The number of persons who have arrived from Lebanon under the UNHCR-led resettlement programme now stands at 785. The remaining 255 persons to arrive under resettlement have been selected and assessed and are expected to arrive later in the year, also from Lebanon.

Under the EU Relocation programme, 459 of our allocation of 1,089 from Greece are already in the State and a further 357 have been assessed and are awaiting transfer to Ireland. A further mission to Athens this month assessed 101 persons. Relocations from Italy have not been possible, to date, due to the refusal by the Italian authorities to allow other Member States, including Ireland, to conduct security assessments of candidates on its soil. Bilateral discussions are continuing to try to resolve this impasse and the Commission has asked Italy to again examine the matter. The Deputy should also be aware the actual numbers eligible for relocation from Italy and Greece are much lower than those originally envisaged under the two Council Decisions of September 2015 (160,000 people). In its most recent publication on Relocation and Resettlement, published on 13 June, the Commission estimates some 39,000 people are eligible and registered for relocation in Italy and Greece, of which approximately 21,000 have been relocated to other Member States to date.

Ireland agreed to take up to 20 unaccompanied minors (UAMs) under the relocation aspects of the IRPP. Ireland’s capacity to take UAMs is determined by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. Six UAMs (by the stricter Irish definition) have arrived in Ireland from Greece under the programme. However, relatively few UAMs appear to be available within the cohort eligible for relocation and efforts continue to seek further transfers within this cohort. All UAMs that have arrived to date are in the care of Tusla.

In a further gesture of humanitarian assistance towards the most vulnerable caught up in the 348 11 July 2017 migration crisis and following a debate in the Dáil, the Government also committed to taking up to 200 additional unaccompanied minors from France who were previously resident in the migrant camp at Calais. On foot of the Government Decision, Tusla, The Child and Family Agency, which comes within the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Katherine Zappone, launched the Calais Special Project (CSP). This is being led operationally by their Separated Children Seeking Asylum team. All of the unaccompanied minors that have been identified in cooperation with the French authorities as suitable for relocation to Ireland have been accepted into Ireland and provided with the appropriate supports. I understand that 21 young persons have been relocated to this jurisdiction to date, 19 of whom are currently in the care of Tusla, and two of whom have been reunited with family members living in Ireland.

I am satisfied that we are making progress to ensure many more people can come to Ireland under our resettlement and relocation programmes. Our attention is focused on meeting these targets and the needs of those accepted under the programmes on arrival. Significant resources are currently being invested in these humanitarian efforts through the various offices in my De- partment and in other Departments and agencies. As a result we have established functioning mechanisms and associated expertise to deal with resettlement and relocation. It is essential that we continue our efforts to complete the IRPP successfully before we look to apply the learning from this Programme to deliberations with regards to any future refugee intake. Deci- sions taken at EU level with regard to the ongoing migration crisis will of course impact on any such deliberations.

11/07/2017WRT03400Human Trafficking

11/07/2017WRT03500307. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons identified as having being illegally trafficked into the State in the past five years; the numbers of these persons that are children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32342/17]

11/07/2017WRT03600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): A distinction needs to be drawn between human trafficking and people smuggling, as there is no requirement that a person must have crossed a border for human trafficking to have taken place.

People smuggling involves migrants being facilitated with entry into a state through illegal means and, unlike human trafficking, must take place across international borders. Human trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, crucially, for the purpose of exploitation. Trafficking in human beings can, and does, take place within national borders. Whereas persons are trafficked by means of coercion or deception, persons who are smuggled usually consent to being smuggled, albeit often in dangerous or degrading conditions.

It is also important to note that people smuggling can lead to trafficking if, for example, the circumstances of the smuggled persons change during the journey or on arrival in the state leading to them becoming victims of violence and exploitation.

The Government’s approach to the crime of human trafficking is contained in the ‘Second National Action Plan to Prevent and Combat Human Trafficking in Ireland’, published by my predecessor in October 2016.

349 Questions - Written Answers While statistics on people smuggling are unavailable, given the clandestine nature of the activity, it has been estimated that up to 80% of irregular migration from Africa is “facilitated”. While a reliable estimate of the numbers of persons being smuggled into Europe is also unavailable, given the destabilisation in the Mediterranean region, the trend is on an upward trajectory. The following data on human trafficking refers to alleged victims reported to the Garda Síochá- na in a given year. The Deputy may wish to know that further statistics on the extent of human trafficking in Ireland are available on the State’s dedicated website,www.blueblindfold.gov.ie .

Alleged victims of trafficking reported to An Garda Síochána by year of report

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Total Adults 25 28 34 55 74 216 Minors* 23 16 12 23 21 95 Total 48 44 46 78 95 311 * Human trafficking is broadly defined in Irish legislation, and offences relating to child pornography often bring such actions within the legal definition of human trafficking. There- fore, these statistics include victims of crimes committed under Section 3(2) of the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Act 2008; in general these are victims of sexual offences relating to child pornography, sexual assault and sexual indecency, rather than what might be considered human trafficking for commercial sexual exploitation such as prostitution. This distinction should be borne in mind when considering the above data and, in particular, when comparing Irish statistics with those of other jurisdictions .

11/07/2017WRT03700Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRT03800308. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason capital expenditure was €19 million behind profile at the end of June 2017; and the projects which have not been in receipt of funds that should have been allocated at this stage, in tabular form. [32390/17]

11/07/2017WRT03900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I wish to inform the Deputy that all capital expenditure for 2017 has been allocated to specific projects. While efforts are made at the start of the year to profile expenditure as accurately as possible, this is particularly difficult with capital expenditure as it is not always possible to predict precisely when contracts will be awarded or invoices will be received. The Deputy will also appreciate that, like any building work, other delays can occur. Consequently, I am informed that delays in capital expenditure at this point in the year are mainly attributable to timing issues relating to procurement, invoices and building works. While expenditure is currently approx €19 million behind profile, it is anticipated that this will be corrected over the second half of the year.

11/07/2017WRT04000Mobile Telephony Use

11/07/2017WRT04100309. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will ensure that no Member of the current Houses of the Oireachtas has had their phone calls or other forms of personal or business communications listened to, copied or intercepted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32492/17]

11/07/2017WRT04200310. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if permission has been sought under the appropriate legislation by the Garda Commissioner to listen to, copy or intercept phone conversations or other form of personal or business communications belonging to 350 11 July 2017 Members of the current Houses of the Oireachtas. [32493/17]

11/07/2017WRT04300311. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the appropriate legislation and processes in place to facilitate requests by An Garda Síochána to intercept persons’ telecommunications. [32494/17]

11/07/2017WRT04400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 309 to 311, inclusive, together.

The interception of post and telephone communications is governed by the provisions of the Interception of Postal Packets and Telecommunications Messages (Regulation) Act 1993.

The Act permits the Minister for Justice and Equality to authorise an interception but only for the purposes of criminal investigation into serious offences or in the interests of the security of the State and only subject to the strict conditions set out in the Act.

The operation of the Act is overseen independently by a Designated Judge of the High Court who reports to the Taoiseach on his examination of its operation and who, by law, has full access to all persons and records that she requires. In addition, a Complaints Referee, who is a serving judge of the Circuit Court, receives and investigates complaints from persons who believe that their communications have been unlawfully intercepted. If the Complaints Referee finds that there has been a violation of the Act, he can order that the interceptions cease and recommend the award of compensation.

It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to disclose details of any authorisations to intercept. The Deputy will understand that this practice of long standing, which has been followed by my predecessors, arises for sound security reasons. Furthermore, section 12 of the Act places a requirement on the Minister for Justice and Equality to ensure that such arrangements are in place to limit to the minimum necessary the disclosure of the fact that an authorisation has been given, and the contents of any communication which has been intercepted pursuant to an authorisation. The Act defines “necessary” as necessary for the purpose of the prevention or detection of serious offences or in the interests of the security of the State.

The Deputy will appreciate that I am maintaining this practice of my predecessors, but I can assure him that I have never exercised these legal powers to interfere in any way with the work of Members of the Oireachtas.

11/07/2017WRU00300Garda Deployment

11/07/2017WRU00400312. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of appointed detectives in each Garda division, in tabular form. [32526/17]

11/07/2017WRU00500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, 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.

351 Questions - Written Answers members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.

This plan is progressing apace. I am informed by the Commissioner, since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, that almost 1,200 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am also informed that a further 400 Garda recruits are scheduled to attest later this year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end, an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the detective strength in each Garda Divi- sion on 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the following table.

An Garda Síochána Detective Strengths 31 May 2017

DIVISION 2017 DMR SOUTH CENTRAL 23 DMR SOUTHERN 30 DMR NORTHERN 28 DMR WEST 50 DMR NORTH CENTRAL 23 DMR EAST 18 WICKLOW 11 LOUTH 19 MEATH 10 WESTMEATH 14 LEIX/OFFALY 21 KILDARE 19 WEXFORD 16 WATERFORD 22 KILKENNY/CARLOW 15 TIPPERARY 16 CORK CITY 99 CORK NORTH 11 CORK WEST 12 KERRY 21

352 11 July 2017 DIVISION 2017 LIMERICK 39 CLARE 29 GALWAY 45 ROSCOMMON/LONGFORD 12 MAYO 13 SLIGO/LEITRIM 15 DONEGAL 25 CAVAN/MONAGHAN 22 TOTAL: 678

11/07/2017WRU00600Garda Deployment

11/07/2017WRU00700313. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of community gardaí in each Garda division, in tabular form. [32527/17]

11/07/2017WRU00800Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda Commissioner in relation to the number of Community Gardaí in each Garda Division and I will write to the Deputy on receipt of same.

11/07/2017WRU00900Living Wage Expenditure

11/07/2017WRU01000314. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32566/17]

11/07/2017WRU01100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The requested information in relation to the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by my Department is contained in the following table.

Proposed Living Wage Number of staff under this Total Cost of introducing rate living wage concerned Minimum wage of €11.70 514 €1,725,710.82 per hour (€26,313.30 p.a)

In line with D/Per Circular 25/2016 and the Protocol for the Provision of Information to Members of the Oireachtas by State Bodies under the Aegis of Government Departments, I have asked those bodies under the aegis of the Department who have been unable to provide a response in the time available (Property Registration Authority and An Garda Síochána) to write to the Deputy directly, and provide the information requested.

11/07/2017WRU01200Garda Recruitment

11/07/2017WRU01300315. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the estimated cost in 2018 of recruiting an additional 1,000 gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32591/17]

11/07/2017WRU01400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I have been informed by 353 Questions - Written Answers the Garda authorities that the cost of recruiting an additional 1,000 Gardaí is some €18.5 million.

The annual cost for new Garda recruits includes a basic weekly allowance of €184. After 32 weeks of training, Garda recruits are attested and move on to the first point of the Garda pay scale €28,405, rising to a maximum of €50,448 per annum after 19 years. They may also qualify for other allowances depending on their assignments. For the purposes of this calculation, the costs are based on basic salary plus employer PRSI but do not include any allowances that the members may be entitled to after being attested. In addition, a commencement date of 1 January 2018 is assumed in order to provide full year costs. The cost of recruitment and training recruits are subsumed into the overall training costs of the Garda College and are not easily identifiable.

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 deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.

Just recently a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of An Garda Síochána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another 400 scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account, an increase of 500 over last year and represents real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.

11/07/2017WRU01500Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRU01600316. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32655/17]

11/07/2017WRU01700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The information requested by the Deputy in respect of my Department is currently being compiled and verified and I will forward this information directly to the Deputy in due course. However, I have also requested that the relevant bodies and agencies which fall under the remit of the Department of Justice and Equality contact the Deputy directly with the relevant information in respect of their own individual areas of responsibility.

11/07/2017WRU01800Garda Civilian Staff Data

11/07/2017WRU01900317. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of civilian staff in the Garda Síochána as of 30 June 2017 or the latest date available; and the figure for the corresponding dates in 2015 and 2016. [32717/17]

354 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRU02000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The most recent available figure for the number of civilians working in An Garda Síochána is for 31 May 2017, at which point there were 2,110 civilian staff members working throughout the organisation carrying out senior management, administrative and technical roles. The figures for the number of civilians working in An Garda Síochána on the corresponding dates of 31 May 2015 and 31 May 2016 are 2,054 and 2,066 respectively.

As part of its Five Year Reform and High-level Workforce Plan for An Garda Síochána, the Government has agreed an overall vision for a Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 to include 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Garda Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. The projected 4,000 civilians will effectively double the current figure and represents a medium-term target of a Garda organisation 20% comprised of civilians. The 20% target will be achieved through a twin-track approach of, firstly, a “civilian by default” policy to be adopted in relation to the filling of all new posts other than operational policing posts and for non-operational policing posts that become vacant and, secondly, the redeployment of Gardaí and backfilling by suitably qualified civilians where necessary.

Funding for the recruitment of up to 500 civilians has been provided in Budget 2017 to facilitate the Commissioner in addressing capacity and critical skills gaps across the organisation including in corporate supports, change management, human resources and financial management at the national, regional and Divisional level. These appointments are intended to facilitate deeper civilianisation in the coming years.

To date, the Policing Authority (with the consent of the Department of Justice and Equality and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform) has approved 137 of these positions including two new senior posts of Executive Director Strategy and Change Management and Executive Director Legal and Compliance. The Government has also agreed in principle to the positions of a Chief Information Officer. The majority of the positions sanctioned are in the areas of ICT, Human Resources, Governance and Strategy, Legal and Compliance, and Finance. 43 of the initial 137 sanctioned posts will go towards back filling vacancies created by the redeployment of Garda members to policing duties. Garda management has indicated that some 163 of the total 500 civilians to be recruited this year will lead to redeployment opportunities. This level of commitment in the first year is very welcome and it is expected that the quantum of redeployments will increase in 2018 and beyond.

The Garda Commissioner has statutory responsibility for recruitment and is working with the Public Appointments Service to fill these sanctioned posts. In addition there is ongoing engagement between Garda management, the Policing Authority, my Department and the De- partment of Public Expenditure and Reform in relation to sanctioning further posts to meet identified business needs across the organisation and draw down the funding that is available for up to 500 additional civilians this year.

11/07/2017WRU02100Garda Deployment

11/07/2017WRU02200318. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the Garda numbers in Rathfarnham Garda station and Tallaght Garda station in each of the years 2011 to 2016 and to date in 2017; his plans to liaise with the Garda Commissioner to investigate whether there are sufficient numbers in both stations to deal with issues, including recent assaults in the Rathfarnham, Knocklyon and Ballycullen areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32726/17]

11/07/2017WRU02300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will ap- 355 Questions - Written Answers preciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, 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.

I am informed by the Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. I am further informed that local Garda management is aware of the incidents referred to which are under investigation and additional patrols have been put in place to assist in the investigation and prevent of further incidents.

The area referred to by the Deputy forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) South Division. I have been informed that the number of Gardaí assigned to the Division on the 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 545 of which 60 and 182 were assigned to Rathfarnham and Tallaght Garda Stations respectively. In addition, 23 Garda Reserves and 32 civilians were also attached to the Division.

This plan is progressing apace. I am informed by the Commissioner, since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, that almost 1,200 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide, 96 of whom were assigned to the DMR South Division. I am also informed that a further four hundred Garda recruits are scheduled to attest later this year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.

For the Deputy’s information I have set out below the detailed information requested in relation to the number Gardaí assigned to Rathfarnham and Tallaght Garda Stations from 2011 to 31 May 2017, the latest figures available, as supplied by the Commissioner.

RATHFARNHAM AND TALLAGHT GARDA STATIONS STRENGTH 2011-2017*

STA- 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017* TION RATH- 73 74 78 72 69 64 60 FARN- HAM

356 11 July 2017 TAL- 194 188 174 170 176 179 182 LAGHT *As of 31 May 2017

11/07/2017WRU02400Public Service Vehicles

11/07/2017WRU02500319. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the average and maximum waiting times for the issuing of licenses with regard to large public service vehicles by the Carriage Office; if there is an independent right of appeal on their determination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32736/17]

11/07/2017WRU02600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I hope the Deputy will appreciate that the legislation governing large public service vehicles (LPSV) is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport. I am informed by his Department that Regulation 14 of the Road Traffic (Public Service Vehicles)(Licensing) Regulations, 1978 (S.I. No. 292 of 1978) provides that the owner of a vehicle may appeal against a refusal, revocation or suspension of a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence. Where the refusal or revocation is made on the grounds that the owner of the vehicle is not a fit and proper person to hold a licence, an appeal must be made to the District Court. In all other cases of refusal or revocation or where a licence has been suspended, Regulation 14 provides that appeals must be made to the Minister for the Environment. As this function transferred to the Minister for Transport in 2002 under the Road Traffic Acts, appeals of this nature can now be made to the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.

Insofar as waiting times are concerned, I am advised by the Garda authorities that the Car- riage Department (under the remit of the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) Traffic Section, directed by Assistant Commissioner, DMR) performs the function of licensing LPSV for the DMR and that the licensing authority for LPSV outside the DMR is the Divisional Officer for the Division where the vehicle is to be registered. I am further advised that as of 7 July 2017 the current waiting time for an inspection of a LPSV stands at approximately six weeks. Once the LPSV has been deemed suitable for licensing, the applicant must complete all necessary documentation in support of the application. The processing of this documentation currently stands at approximately 2 weeks.

However, delays will be experienced if the vehicle is deemed unsuitable for licensing or if there are concerns in respect of the suitability of the applicant to hold a LPSV. In relation to the vehicle, all defects must be remedied before the vehicle can be deemed suitable. All checks in respect of the licence-holder must have been completed before a licence will issue, which may include an interview with the Authorised Officer.

11/07/2017WRU02700Departmental Properties

11/07/2017WRU02800320. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason, during a housing crisis, a site (details supplied) of which he is the registered owner is on the Dublin City Council register of vacant sites; his plans for the site; and when it will be put back into use. [32746/17]

11/07/2017WRU02900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Prison Service that it is in detailed discussions with Dublin City Council and Novas, an approved housing body involved in the provision of social housing, regarding the future use of

357 Questions - Written Answers the site in question and how it might be developed in the context of the Government’s homeless strategy. In this regard I can advise the Deputy that Novas sought and obtained planning approval for a development comprising of apartments and a commercial unit on the site. Develop- ment work has not yet commenced pending the outcome of discussions with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform regarding the terms of the disposal of land concerned.

11/07/2017WRU03000Money Laundering

11/07/2017WRU03100321. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans regarding the publication of the legislation required to give effect to the fourth anti-money laundering directive; if he plans to delay publishing the amendments required to be made to give effect to the fourth anti-money laundering directive by amending the Criminal Justice (Money Launder- ing and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010 until the proposed fifth anti-money laundering directive is finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32769/17]

11/07/2017WRU03200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The General Scheme of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing)(Amendment) Bill was approved by the Government in December 2016. The Bill will give effect to most of the provisions of the 4th EU Money Laundering Directive (the Minister for Finance is responsible for transposing beneficial ownership and trust provisions of the Directive). The Bill is at an advanced stage of drafting and it is expected that the Bill should be ready for publication early in the next parliamentary session. Consideration will also be given to the extent to which provisions of the Directive could be transposed by Regulations made under the European Communi- ties Act 1972. There are no plans to delay transposition of the 4th Directive pending adoption of the proposed 5th Directive. The question of transposing the 5th Directive will be considered, in consultation with the Department of Finance, once that Directive has been adopted.

11/07/2017WRU03300Visa Applications

11/07/2017WRU03400322. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when an appropriate visa for travel to Ireland will issue in the case of a person (details supplied); the progress to date in the determination of eligibility in respect of same; when a visa is likely to issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32782/17]

11/07/2017WRU03500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the visa application referred to was approved on 6 July 2017. The sponsor in Ireland has since been advised to contact the Irish Honorary Consulate in Kiev to arrange issuance.

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 email service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited. In addition, applicants may themselves email queries directly to INIS at [email protected].

11/07/2017WRU03600Visa Applications

358 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRU03700323. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress to date in the determination of eligibility for visa in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32793/17]

11/07/2017WRU03800Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the visa application referred to was approved and issued on 30 June 2017.

Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by email 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 email service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited. In addition, applicants may themselves email queries directly to INIS at [email protected].

11/07/2017WRU03900Garda Deployment

11/07/2017WRU04000324. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each Garda station in Cork city as of 30 June 2017; and the number of new recruits assigned to the division since recruitment resumed in 2014. [32795/17]

11/07/2017WRU04100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): 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 deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in the Garda Síochána. Funding has also been provided for the recruitment of 300 Garda Reserves.

Last Thursday 6 July, a class of 198 Garda trainees attested as members of the Garda Sío- chána - the largest class to attest since the Garda College reopened in September 2014. This brings the number of new recruits who have attested since the College reopened to almost 1,200, with another 400 scheduled to attest later this year. This will bring Garda numbers to 13,500 by year-end once projected retirements are taken into account - an increase of 500 over last year. This is real progress on reaching our target of 15,000 members by 2021.

As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the dis- 359 Questions - Written Answers tribution 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. I am informed by the Commissioner that 25 newly attested Gardaí have been assigned to the Cork City Division since the College reopened.

For the Deputy’s information, I have set out in tabular form the number of Gardaí assigned to the Cork City Division by station as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, as provided by the Commissioner.

CORK CITY 31 MAY 2017 DISTRICT STATION TOTAL ANGLESEA STREET ANGLESEA STREET 278 BLACKROCK 22 BRIDEWELL 27 TOTAL 327 GURRANABRAHER BALLINCOLLIG 19 BLARNEY 17 CARRIG NA BHFEAR 1 GURRANABRAHER 55 TOTAL 92 MAYFIELD GLANMIRE 19 MAYFIELD 50 WATERCOURSE ROAD 43 TOTAL 112 TOGHER BISHOPSTOWN 20 CARRIGALINE 20 CROSSHAVEN 2 DOUGLAS 19 PASSAGE WEST 2 TOGHER 52 TOTAL 115 CORK CITY TOTAL 646

11/07/2017WRU04200Garda Investigations

11/07/2017WRU04300325. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on the actions and investigations being taken on foot of the reports of the Moriarty tribunal; the status of these investigations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32816/17]

11/07/2017WRU04400326. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on the status of the investigations by the Garda Síochána and the Director of Public Pros- ecutions into the findings of the Flood and Mahon tribunals; the stage these investigations are at; when he expects a decision to be reached; if he has set a deadline for this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32817/17]

11/07/2017WRU04500327. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on the status of investigations by the Garda Síochána and the Director of Public Prosecu- tions into the findings of the Moriarty tribunal; the stage these investigations are at; when he

360 11 July 2017 expects a decision to be reached; if he has set a deadline for this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32818/17]

11/07/2017WRU04600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I propose to take Ques- tions Nos. 325 to 327, inclusive, together.

I can inform the Deputy that the position in relation to these matters remain unchanged at present. I am advised by the Garda authorities that investigations relating to the findings of the Flood and Mahon Tribunals, as well as the investigation of certain matters arising from the report of the Moriarty Tribunal, are ongoing. I am also advised that relevant liaison is maintained by Gardaí with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The Deputy will appreciate that investigations of the matters in question may involve very extensive interviews and enquiries. While I do of course appreciate public concern about these matters, I am advised that the overriding concern for the Garda Síochána is to ensure that these investigations are carried out as comprehensively and effectively as possible.

The consideration of criminal investigations is clearly a matter for the Garda authorities, and likewise it is a matter for the DPP to decide, independently, if any charges should be brought. It is not open to me, as Minister, to set deadlines in relation to these matters and it would be most inappropriate to attempt to go into the detail of ongoing Garda inquiries. I trust that all members of this House would wish to ensure that nothing is said that might in any way impinge on the progress of subsequent criminal proceedings.

The Government remains committed to supporting the Garda Síochána in pursuing all criminal investigations and this is underlined by the very significant investments which have been made in policing resources – all of which will support enhanced investigation and detection of crime, and benefit ongoing investigations.

11/07/2017WRV00400Firearms Licences

11/07/2017WRV00500328. Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons who, between 1 January 2016 and 30 June 2017, applied to his Department to become registered firearms dealers; the number of persons that have been granted a gun dealer’s licence in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32916/17]

11/07/2017WRV00600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): Section 9 (3) of the Fire- arms Act 1925, as amended, provides for the registration of a person as a firearms dealer. Any person who applies for registration must satisfy the Minister that “he is immediately about to carry on business as a firearms dealer …. in premises suitable for that business.”

Further, the section provides, inter alia, that the Minister shall have regard to the character of the applicant, and generally to the public safety and preservation of the peace when considering such applications.

A person who wishes to become a firearms dealer must first obtain an application form (form 7) which is available on my Department’s website. The completed form must be lodged with the Sergeant of the Garda sub-district where the applicant resides and An Garda Síochána will then prepare a suitability report on the character of the applicant and a crime prevention report on the proposed business location.

The number of persons that applied to join the register of firearms dealers for the first time from 1 January 2016 to 30 June 2017 was 22. This figure does not include those who renewed

361 Questions - Written Answers their registration on the register during this period. The total number of the first time applicants that were granted registration during the same period was 8.

In relation to the 14 remaining persons:

10 applications await final Garda reports.

3 applications await further information from the applicant themselves.

1 application was refused.

11/07/2017WRV00700Garda College

11/07/2017WRV00800329. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the €15,964 in interest from accumulated EU funded projects has been repaid to CEPOL and the Exchequer in the proportion in which the funding was provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32920/17]

11/07/2017WRV00900Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): As the Deputy will be aware I have indicated publicly my concern at the findings of the Interim Internal Audit Report in relation to the financial procedures in the Garda College Templemore. As the Deputy will also be aware the Public Accounts Committee is expected to issue a report on its examination of the matter in the near future. The Garda Commissioner has been Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote since July 2006. Very particular responsibilities lie with Accounting Officers under the law and you will appreciate that I must be careful not to interfere in any way with the work of that Committee.

I have been assured that the Garda Authorities recognise the gravity of the issues raised, they have accepted the recommendations in full and are taking comprehensive steps to progress their implementation. External governance expertise and auditors have been engaged. A Steer- ing Committee, chaired by the Garda Síochána Chief Administrative Officer and including a representative from my Department, is overseeing the implementation of the recommendations with a view to bringing matters to a conclusion as quickly as possible. I am, however, informed that there are several aspects to the implementation of the recommendations, including the recommendation referred to by the Deputy, that require further consideration to ensure that there is a full understanding of the extent of the issues identified in order to address fully their implementation. This work is ongoing.

In addition, upon receipt of the report, it was referred by my predecessor to the Policing Au- thority to oversee the implementation of the recommendations and to report back on a quarterly basis. I expect the Authority to submit its first report to me at the end of this month.

11/07/2017WRV01000Departmental Contracts

11/07/2017WRV01100330. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of tenders for building construction of more than €250,000 issued to construction companies over each of the past six years for prisons and court buildings; the initial cost of each tender at contract award stage; the amount of the agreed final account or total amount paid in each case; the reason and details for overruns; the specific procurement method in each tender or contract award case; and if former State employees were engaged on construction projects.

[32927/17] 362 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRV01200Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The information requested by the Deputy could not be compiled in the time available. I will write to the Deputy directly when the information is available.

11/07/2017WRV01300Departmental Contracts

11/07/2017WRV01400331. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of building construction consultants and related advisers such as but not excluding architects, engineers, quantity surveyors for prisons and court buildings (details supplied). [32928/17]

11/07/2017WRV01500Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The information requested by the Deputy could not be compiled in the time available. I will write to the Deputy directly when the information is available.

11/07/2017WRV01600Residency Permits

11/07/2017WRV01700332. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when a final decision for residency can be expected in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32958/17]

11/07/2017WRV01800Minister 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 has had their permission to remain in the State renewed for a further period to 10 February, 2020. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned by letter dated 12 December, 2016.

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.

11/07/2017WRV01900Garda Complaints Procedures

11/07/2017WRV02000333. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if consideration has been given to establishing an ombudsman to determine and mediate grievance complaints made by members of An Garda Síochána in respect of management decisions that gardaí wish to appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33032/17]

11/07/2017WRV02100Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The Deputy will be aware that the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces was established in 2005 to provide an independent, objective and accessible means of redress for individual members of the Defence Forces in addition to maintaining oversight of administrative and systemic practices. One of the key underlying principles of that office is to create an independent quality control mechanism to oversee procedures, practices and policies in the Defence Forces. The Ombudsman serves as an office of independent external review for serving members of the Defence Forces who must first exhaust existing internal grievance procedures before the Ombudsman can review or examine a case.

363 Questions - Written Answers In relation to An Garda Síochána I am advised that a new anti-bullying and harassment strategy is being developed by An Garda Síochána as part of the Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021. The policy is being developed to ensure that any Garda members and staff experiencing bullying and/or harassment at work will receive the best possible organisational support in dealing with such issues.

The provision of an external third party has proved to be beneficial in resolving these types of complaints on an ad-hoc basis within An Garda Síochána and there would be merit in building external input into the system under development as a final resort for complainants alleging that they have been the victim of bullying or harassment. The Defence Forces Ombudsman is one model. It is a statutory body and legislation would most likely be required to replicate this system for An Garda Síochána. There are other models including the establishment of a panel of experts. In addition, of course it is the case at present that where an allegation of bullying or harassment would amount to a breach of discipline or a criminal office, a member may make a complaint to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission. Any consideration of the introduction of a model similar to the Defence Forces Ombudsman would include a consideration as to whether to include provisions to determine and mediate grievance complaints made by members in respect of management decision that Gardaí wish to appeal, as is the case with the Defence Forces Ombudsman.

I have an open mind as to which model is most appropriate for An Garda Síochána provided that whatever changes are made to the current arrangements deliver a system that has the confidence of all concerned.

11/07/2017WRV02200Garda Station Refurbishment

11/07/2017WRV02300334. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans regarding improvement works to be carried out at a Garda station (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33058/17]

11/07/2017WRV02400Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): The programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation, and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.

The refurbishment of Portlaoise Garda station is included in the Garda Capital Investment Programme 2016-2021, which is an ambitious 5- year Programme based on agreed priorities established by An Garda Síochána that will benefit over thirty locations around the country. The Programme will provide new stations and modernise older stations at key locations around the country, ensuring safe, modern working environment for members and staff of An Garda Síochána as well as fit-for-purpose facilities for visitors, victims and suspects. It includes major refurbishment of stations and facilities, including facilities for meeting victims of crime, essential remedial works to existing stations, development of large scale property and exhibit management stores, the upgrade of cells and the provision of improved custody management facilities.

In relation to Portlaoise Garda station, I am informed that the project will involve an upgrade and refurbishment of the present Garda Station and custody suite along with the provision of additional accommodation for An Garda Síochána on the adjacent State property, which will necessitate an adjustment to the site. Local Garda management are working closely with the Office of Public Works to finalise sketch scheme proposals based on the brief of accommoda- 364 11 July 2017 tion requirements provided by An Garda Síochána.

The Garda authorities inform me that due to the scale of this major capital project the OPW estimate that construction works will be carried out in phases. It is anticipated that the first phase of works will commence on site in 2018, with further phases commencing thereafter.

11/07/2017WRV02500Criminal Law

11/07/2017WRV02600335. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce hate crime legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33070/17]

11/07/2017WRV02700Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): Any level of crime that is motivated by hate or prejudice is a matter of concern and figures for recorded incidents involving discrimination are published by the CSO. I can inform the Deputy that, in 2016, there were 308 recorded incidents with a discrimination motive. I would also like to note that 2016 was also the first year in which the CSO figures fully reflect the changes in the recording of crimes with a discriminatory motive, which has expanded the categories of discrimination from four to 11.

I would like to assure the Deputy that there are mechanisms in place to deal with hate motivated crime. Where a criminal offence such as assault, criminal damage or a public order offence is committed against a person based on their race, religion, colour, ethnicity, gender, disability or some other ground, the offence is prosecuted through the wider criminal law. It is also accepted that such an offence is more serious on account of the hate or prejudice motivating the crime and Irish courts do consider evidence of a crime being motivated by hate or prejudice as an aggravating factor at sentencing.

With respect to legislation establishing hate crime as a specific and punishable crime, it is important that any legislation which is introduced will allow for effective prosecution of these type of offences. I would also remind the Deputy of the second stage debate in October last year with respect to a Criminal Justice (Aggravation by Prejudice) Bill which was a Private Member’s Bill introduced by Deputy O’Loughlin and Deputy Murphy O’Mahony. While there was support for the principle of the Bill, there were a number of concerns raised in respect of the approach proposed and the Deputies sponsoring the Bill undertook to further engage in respect of the proposals therein. The Bill proceeded to pre-Committee Stage scrutiny on 12 April this year, and I understand that my Department has engaged with one of the sponsoring Deputies in relation to the concerns regarding the practicality of the proposals.

I would also like to draw the attention of the Deputy to the 2016 Annual Report of the EU Fundamental Rights Agency which found that to address racism and xenophobia, EU Member States should ensure that any case of alleged hate crime or hate speech is effectively investigated, prosecuted and tried. The Garda Racial Intercultural and Diversity Office (GRIDO) has responsibility for coordinating, monitoring and advising on all aspects of policing Ireland’s diverse communities. GRIDO monitors the reporting and recording of hate and racist crime on a continual basis.

Garda Ethnic Liaison Officers (ELOs) are appointed to work with minority communities at local level throughout the country. These officers combined with GRIDO play a fundamental role in liaising with minority groups and work in partnership to encourage tolerance, respect and understanding within communities in the pursuit of preventing the commission of hate and racist crime. GRIDO and ELOs provide advice and assistance to victims of hate or racist crime where required or deemed necessary.

365 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRV02800Garda Data

11/07/2017WRV02900336. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamen- tary Questions Nos. 55 of 9 March 2017 and 135 of 30 May 2017, when a reply will issue for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33082/17]

11/07/2017WRV03000Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I have been informed by the Garda authorities that, to collate the specific information requested by the Deputy on the number of vehicles seized by the Gardaí and disposed of for each year from 2010 to 2016 would require An Garda Síochána to manually search and review all seizure and disposals records held within each Garda Division, which would involve a disproportionate use of Garda time and resources.

11/07/2017WRV03100Garda Strength

11/07/2017WRV03200337. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each division in County Cork in each of the years 2015 and 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33087/17]

11/07/2017WRV03300Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): 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 Minister, 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. I am informed by the Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division.

This plan is progressing apace. I am informed by the Commissioner, since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, that almost 1,200 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide,10, 25 and 15 of whom were assigned to the Cork North, Cork City and Cork West Divisions respectively. I am also informed that a further four hundred Garda recruits are scheduled to attest later this year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.

This investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that

366 11 July 2017 have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government’s Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and I have no doubt that these new resources now coming on stream will see an increase in Garda visibility in our communities.

For the Deputy’s information I have set out below, as provided by the Commissioner, the number of Gardaí assigned to the Cork Garda Divisions for each of the years 2015 to 2106 and on 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available.

CORK DIVISIONS STRENGTH 2015-2017* 2015 2016 2017* CORK CITY 651 644 646 CORK NORTH 298 300 311 CORK WEST 276 281 284 *As of 31 May 2017

11/07/2017WRV03400Crime Prevention

11/07/2017WRV03500338. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to provide a grant scheme for rural households and businesses to install security camera systems in view of the spate of criminal activity in rural areas and the concerns of communities in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33088/17]

11/07/2017WRV03600Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Charles Flanagan): I must inform the Dep- uty that there are currently no plans to provide a grant scheme such as the one outlined in his question. However, I want to assure the Deputy that I am very much aware of the impact of crime on rural communities, including the serious damage done by organised gangs who target rural areas to engage in burglary and other property crime.

As the Deputy is aware, Operation Thor entails a broad range of activities to tackle organised crime gangs and other prolific offenders as well as working with communities to prevent crime. This comprehensive operation is supported by the enhanced Government investment in Garda resources, including an additional allocation of €88.5 million for overtime in 2017. We have also invested heavily in the Garda fleet, with over 720 new vehicles coming on stream since the start of 2015 and a provision of 46 million for new Garda vehicles under the Capital Plan 2016-2021.

The additional investments in policing make it possible to maintain and extend a range of intensive policing operations, including the continued targeting of burglaries and related crime via Operation Thor. Under Operation Thor we have seen over 74,000 targeted checkpoints and 52,400 crime prevention patrols nationwide. This concentrated policing activity has produced in the region of 4,400 arrests and 4,900 charges covering a range of offences which, in addition to burglary, have included handling stolen property, possession of firearms and drugs offences. It is encouraging to note that since the launch of the Operation, the CSO burglary figures have shown a significant downward trend. These show a 30% decrease in burglary for the twelve months of 2016 when compared to 2015, and this parallels the implementation of Operation Thor.

This Government has also made it a particular priority to strengthen our legislative provisions through the enactment of the Criminal Justice (Burglary of Dwellings) Act 2015 which is

367 Questions - Written Answers targeted at repeat burglars who have previous convictions and who are charged with multiple offences of residential burglary. This new legislation is now available to support the work which is being carried out by An Garda Síochána under Operation Thor.

The Programme for Government underlines the need for close engagement between An Garda Síochána and local communities. This is an essential feature of the strong community policing ethos which has long been central to policing in this jurisdiction. The Deputy will be aware that. as part of the overall strategy to oppose criminality, the Garda authorities pursue a range of partnerships with community stakeholders, including the farming organisations. There are a range of partnership initiatives which have been established between An Garda Síochá- na and important rural-based organisations such as the Irish Farmers Association, Muintir na Tire and other rural community organisations. These include the well established Community Alert Programme, which receives annual funding from my Department, as well as the work of the Metal Theft Forum, the Crimestoppers campaign highlighting the Theft of Livestock, the Theftstop initiative in relation to farm equipment, and the highly successful Garda Text Alert Scheme.

Underpinning all of these measures is the Government’s commitment to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. The Government is pursuing its plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits, up to 500 civilians and approximately 300 members of the Garda reserve. These appointments will support the wide ranging reform plan which is in train in An Garda Síochána, and benefit policing services for all communities, whether in rural or urban areas.

11/07/2017WRV03700National Landscape Strategy

11/07/2017WRV03800339. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs when the national guidelines will be available to local authorities in respect of the renewal energy landscape character assessments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32794/17]

11/07/2017WRV03900340. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs the reason the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport was not consulted when compiling and reviewing the renewal energy strategy landscape character assessment in respect of County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32798/17]

11/07/2017WRV04000Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I propose to take Questions Nos. 339 and 340 together.

Arising from Ireland’s ratification of the European Landscape Convention I launched the National Landscape Strategy for Ireland 2015-2025 in May 2015. Copies are available on my Department’s website.

The Strategy is to be implemented in two phases. The key action in Phase one, as set out in the Implementation Programme, will be the preparation of a National Landscape Character Assessment (NLCA). My Department is currently preparing tender documentation for the NLCA. The NLCA will be an important tool to provide data and objective information required to evaluate the current state of the landscape and to underpin effective spatial planning and landscape-centred decision making.

368 11 July 2017 I would note that the primary role of planning authorities and the consultative roles of other bodies and persons in decision-making relating to landscape issues will continue to be governed by the provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). One of the objectives of the National Landscape Strategy will be to assist in the achievement of greater consistency in decision making when dealing with issues of landscape via the landscape character assessment process, within City and County Development Plans, at local government level.

The second phase of the strategy under Action 3 is: “Following completion of the National Landscape Character Assessment, statutory guidelines on local Landscape Character Assess- ments, following best international practice, and incorporating Historic Landscape Characteri- sation, and other appropriate assessment methodologies, will be prepared for Planning Au- thorities under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended).” The preparation and issuing of these statutory guidelines will be a joint action of my Department and that of the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.

In relation to whether Kerry County Council consulted with the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport regarding its Landscape Character Assessment, this is a matter for the Coun- ty Council and I have no function in that regard.

11/07/2017WRW00200Heritage Centres Funding

11/07/2017WRW00300341. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the supports and resources available for a docklands heritage centre; if her officials are examining and progressing such a proposal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32136/17]

11/07/2017WRW00400Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): My Department operates a scheme of grants for investment in arts and cultural centres around the country. I recently announced details of grants of over €9 million in capital funding under the scheme. This scheme targets investment at a range of different facilities, including arts centres, theatres, galleries and museums, as well as artists’ studios and creative spaces. I also opened a further element of funding under this Scheme, which closed for applications on 16 June. It provided for smaller capital grants of up to €20,000 to not-for-profit organisations with a defined arts and cultural remit.

The scheme was considerably over-subscribed but I do intend to open it again in the near future. It is open to any organisation to put forward eligible projects for support under the scheme. My Department is in receipt of correspondence from an organisation with respect to the possible provision of a docklands heritage centre and will be advising the group of the possibility of making future applications under the scheme.

11/07/2017WRW00500CLÁR Programme

11/07/2017WRW00600342. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the CLÁR programme will open again for applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32148/17]

11/07/2017WRW00700Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The 2017 CLÁR programme was launched on 31 March 2017 and provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in disadvantaged rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population. Funding was available this year under four separate 369 Questions - Written Answers Measures:

Measure 1: Support for School and Community Safety Measures

Measure 2: Play Areas

Measure 3: Targeted Community Infrastructure

Measure 4: First Responder Supports

Applications under Measures 1, 2 and 3 were submitted through the Local Authorities, while Measure 4 was targeted at voluntary organisations involved in emergency rescue or first- response efforts. The closing date for applications under the 2017 CLÁR programme was 5 May 2017 and over 500 applications were received across the four measures. Successful projects were announced over the last few weeks, with a total of just under €7 million allocated to approximately 230 projects across the four Measures. Details of the approved projects are available at http://www.ahrrga.gov.ie/rural/rural-development/clar-2016/.

There are currently no plans to open the CLÁR programme for new applications again this year. The provision of funding for the CLÁR programme for 2018 will be considered as part of the annual budgetary process later this year.

11/07/2017WRW00800Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRW00900343. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the unallocated expenditure within her Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; and the funds that will become available within her Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for goods and services and or changes to costs within her Department. [32229/17]

11/07/2017WRW01000Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Details of the €381.97 million voted by the Oireachtas for my Department in 2017 are published in the Revised Estimates Volume and are available at http://www.per.gov. ie/wp-content/uploads/RevisedEstimatesforPublicServices2017.pdf. All voted funding is allocated for specific purposes and expenditure across my Department is closely monitored on an ongoing basis. None of the programmes funded across my Department are anticipated to cease this year.

Final expenditure ceilings for my Department’s Vote for 2018 are due to be published in conjunction with Budget 2018 in October of this year and it is not possible at present to anticipate the outcome of that process.

11/07/2017WRW01100CLÁR Programme

11/07/2017WRW01200344. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the 2017 CLÁR funding announced recently will be allocated to Sligo and Leitrim county councils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32247/17]

11/07/2017WRW01300Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The 2017 CLÁR programme was launched on 31 March 2017 and provides funding for small scale infrastructural projects in disadvantaged rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population. Funding was available this year under four separate

370 11 July 2017 Measures:

Measure 1: Support for School and Community Safety Measures

Measure 2: Play Areas

Measure 3: Targeted Community Infrastructure

Measure 4: First Responder Supports

Successful projects were announced over the last few weeks, with a total of just under €7 million allocated to approximately 230 projects across the four Measures, including 9 projects in Co. Sligo and 17 projects in Co. Leitrim. Details of all approved projects are available at http://www.ahrrga.gov.ie/rural/rural-development/clar-2016/.

Contracts for the funding approved under Measures 1, 2 and 3 have now issued to all of the relevant Local Authorities. Payments under the programme will be issued when agreed thresholds of expenditure, as set out in these contracts, have been reached by the Local Authorities.

Similarly, contracts have been issued to the voluntary organisations which were successful under Measure 4.

11/07/2017WRW01400Waterways Ireland Data

11/07/2017WRW01500345. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of persons employed in Waterways Ireland; and if he will provide a breakdown of its current and capital expenditure for 2016. [32317/17]

11/07/2017WRW01600Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Waterways Ireland is one of the six North South Implementation Bodies established under the British-Irish Agreement Act 1999. Waterways Ireland currently has 328 employees and is jointly sponsored and co-funded by my Department, the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (DAHRRGA) and the Department for Infra- structure (DfI) in Northern Ireland. Funding to the Body is provided on a ratio of 85:15 between this jurisdiction and Northern Ireland. Waterways Ireland’s total expenditure in 2016 was €31.1m of which €23.4m was current and €7.7m. capital.

11/07/2017WRW01700Rural Development Plan

11/07/2017WRW01800346. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if her Department has established a co-ordinating unit to work with communities to develop co-operative structures as promised in the programme for Government to help keep vital local services in place and to retain and develop vibrant local enterprises; the other measures her Department has implemented; the supports available to communities seeking to develop co-operative structures to help keep vital local services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32442/17]

371 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRW01900Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): Following the assignment to my Department of responsibility for regional and rural affairs in May 2016, I established new Regional and Rural Affairs Division in the De- partment, including a Business Unit to co-ordinate action across Government to support the economic and social development of rural areas. The Action Plan for Rural Development was developed by this Unit as a key instrument to manage the co-ordination of activities across Government which support rural development. The Plan contains 276 practical actions for delivery across a range of Government Departments, State agencies, and other organisations, with clear timeframes for delivery. The Action Plan focuses on supporting sustainable communities, supporting enterprise and employment, maximising our rural tourism and recreation potential, fostering culture and creativity in rural communities, and improving rural infrastructure and creativity.

There has already been significant progress right across Government on various elements of the Action Plan, including measures which will assist in supporting rural communities, developing enterprises and underpinning local services.

From my own Department’s perspective , measures which have been announced this year include:

- The launch of the 2017 Town and Village Renewal Scheme which will provide €20 million to support up to 300 rural towns and villages over the next 12 months.

- The allocation of €7 million to approximately 230 projects in de-populated rural communities under the 2017 CLÁR programme;

- The establishment of Innovation Hubs in the Donegal and Kerry Gaeltacht regions to support entrepreneurship and start-up companies, with others to follow in Mayo and Galway;

- The announcement of €500,000 in capital investment to boost the tourism potential of Ireland’s National Parks;

- The launch of the 2017 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme which will provide €11 million for the development and maintenance of outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas across Ireland;

- The investment of €9 million in 56 arts and culture centres across the country, with over 80% of the investment in rural areas.

The first 6-monthly Progress Report on the Action Plan is currently being finalised and will be published shortly.

11/07/2017WRW02000Rural Recreation Policy

11/07/2017WRW02100347. Deputy Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs if she has considered the introduction of an indemnity scheme in the event of injury to recreational walkers on private land as recommended by Comhairle na Tuaithe. [32550/17]

11/07/2017WRW02200Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): The Occupiers Liability Act 1995 provides significant protection in circumstances referred to by the Deputy. In addition, an insurance policy held by the National Trails Office provides indemnity for recreational users on way marked ways and walks registered with my Department’s Walks Scheme where inspection and approval has been carried out by that Office. Nonetheless, my Department is working closely with the State Claims Agency in relation to the 372 11 July 2017 development and implementation of a National Indemnity Scheme for landowners to support the recreational use of Ireland’s uplands and discussions are at an advanced stage.

11/07/2017WRW02300Living Wage

11/07/2017WRW02400348. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32556/17]

11/07/2017WRW02500Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I am advised that, based on current staffing and pay levels, the estimated additional annual cost of introducing an hourly wage of €11.70 for all employees, employed both directly in my Department and in agencies under its aegis and who are not already paid that amount or more, would be in the order of €255,165.

11/07/2017WRW02600Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRW02700349. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Department for each of the past five years 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. [32645/17]

11/07/2017WRW02800Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I refer the Deputy to my answer to Parliamentary Question No.166 of 9 February last. A copy of the information provided in response to that question showing expenditure under the headings by my Department during the years 2011-2016 is set out in the tables. Expen- diture that has been incurred to date in 2017 is shown separately. No expenditure was incurred in relation to interview training and preparation for the period requested.

In light of the large volume of information requested by the Deputy, arrangements are being made for the information requested in respect of those agencies under the aegis of my Depart- ment to be collated and forwarded to the Deputy in line with the timelines set out in Standing Orders.

Expenditure to date in 2017

Photography

Occasions Photographer Cost 20th Anniversary of Shekina Con Brogan €325 Sculpture Garden Launch of the Action Plan GPhotos €150 for Rural Development

373 Questions - Written Answers Occasions Photographer Cost ‘The Moore Street Report – Maxwell Photography €121 Securing History’ presented to Minister Humphreys by the Moore Street Consulta- tive Group Launch of online genealogy Maxwell Photography €499 toolkit for schools Cruinniú na Cásca Maxwell Photography €689 Announcement that Jesse Maxwell Photography €465 Jones to represent Ireland at the 57th International Art Exhibition in Venice Advertising (All Print Media)

Advertising Media Cost Mediavest Ireland Ltd €2,962 Iris Oifigiúil €1,410 FCR Media Ltd €12,318 Website Development

Company Cost Fusio Ltd €3,875 Public Relations

Company Cost Nicholas Quaife - Creative Ireland NY €2,988 Launch Expenditure 2011-2016 - Photography

2011 Total: €1,055

Occasions Photographer Cost National Famine Commem- Philip Fitzpatrick €400 oration, Clones 2011 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

374 11 July 2017 Occasions 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 MacInnes Photograhy €342 Project, National Archives, Dublin Ballycroy National Park Eamonn O’Boyle €320 Whaling Exhibition Official Opening of Burren Nicholas MacInnes €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 MacInnes 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

Occasions 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

375 Questions - Written Answers Occasions Photographer Cost Launch of Century Ireland Maxwell Photography €363 website Launch of Scéim Oiliúna Pixsheáin €148 Peile agus Iománaíochta,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

Occasions 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 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

376 11 July 2017 Occasions 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 ration and related events Spanish Armada Find Sligo Picsell8 Ltd €450 Teach an Phiarsaigh Cul- Reg Gordon €960 tural and Exhibition centre, Rosmuc, 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

377 Questions - Written Answers Occasions Photographer Cost 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 Bur- saries, 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

Occasions Photographer Cost Launch of design phase for Conor McCabe €431 archives storage in National Archives Launch of website of com- Conor McCabe €431 pensation claims for property losses during 1916 Rising Commemorating Women of Conor McCabe €431 1916 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 EU Irish Language Careers meeting with Minister of State Moneen Cave Excavation Thorsten Kahlert €1,300 Ireland 2016 Peace Proms Big O €400 378 11 July 2017 Occasions Photographer Cost 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 Teevan Photogra- €564 Launch phy 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 Advertising (All Print media)

Year Organisation Amount (€) 2011 Truvo Ireland Ltd €14,963 2011 Brindley Advertising €14,150 2011 Iris Oifigiúil €1,988 2011 Heritage Council €900 Total 2011 €32,001 2012 Brindley Advertising € 1,791 2012 Iris Oifigiúil € 6,956 2012 FCR Media Ltd €13,690 2012 Heritage Council € 900 Total 2012 €23,337 2013 Iris Oifigiúil € 842 2013 FCR Media Ltd €13,690 2013 Johnson Press Ltd €431 2013 IPA €196 2013 Irish Food Publishers Ltd €1,107 Total 2013 €16,266 2014 FCR Media Ltd €13,690 2014 Iris Oifigiúil €126 Total 2014 €13,816 2015 FCR Media Ltd €13,690

379 Questions - Written Answers Year Organisation Amount (€) 2015 IPA €197 2015 Mediavest Ireland Ltd € 6,885 Total 2015 €20,772 2016 FCR Media Ltd €13,004 2016 Iris Oifigiúil € 5,616 2016 Irish Food Publishers Ltd € 1,107 Total 2016 €19,727 Communications Advice

Year Company Service Provided Cost 2015 Stephanie Dickinson ‘I Am Ireland’ pro- €1,485 gramme Total €1,485 Public Relations

Year Company Service Provided Cost 2011 Zoetrope Provision of press €84,000 and publicity, online and social media services to Culture Ireland for the duration of the Imagine Ireland programme 2011 2012 Zoetrope Provision of PR and €7,000 Media services to Culture Ireland for the Venice Architec- ture Biennale 2012 2016 Q4PR Publicity campaign €19,680 for Irish Language employment opportunities in the Euro- pean Institutions Website Development

Year Company Service Provided Cost 2011 Paciello Group Ltd Website mainte- €45,375 nance, development testing, support for grant application system 2011 AIS PL www.irishgenealogy. €2,905 ie website development Total 2011 €48,280

380 11 July 2017 Year Company Service Provided Cost 2012 Paciello Group Ltd Website mainte- €23,925 nance, development testing, support for grant application system Total 2012 €23,925 2013 Paciello Group Ltd Website mainte- €7,896 nance, development testing, support for grant application system 2013 Royal Irish Academy www.irishgenealogy. €18,996 ie website development 2013 RIA Digital Repository €51,000 Virtual Museum Total 2013 €77,892 2014 Paciello Group Ltd Website mainte- €22,140 nance, development testing, support for grant application system 2014 AIS PL www.irishgenealogy. €5,191 ie website development 2014 RIA Digital Repository €20,324 Virtual Museum Total 2014 €47,665 2015 Paciello Group Ltd Website mainte- €13,099 nance, development testing, support for grant application system 2015 Fusio Ltd Website develop- €39,053 ment 2015 AIS PL www.irishgenealogy. €877 ie website development Total 2015 €53,029 2016 Paciello Group Ltd Website mainte- €12,730 nance, development testing, support for grant application system 2016 Fusio Ltd Website develop- €7,749 ment

381 Questions - Written Answers Year Company Service Provided Cost 2016 AIS PL www.irishgenealogy. €3,499 ie website development Total 2016 €23,978

11/07/2017WRW02900Wildlife Control

11/07/2017WRW03000350. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the action which can be taken in respect of crows in locations in which they have become a serious and unusual nuisance to human habitation. [32733/17]

11/07/2017WRW03100Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): All birds, including crows, are protected under the Wildlife Acts and the Euro- pean Communities Birds Directive. Under the terms of the Directive, all Member States of the EU are bound to take measures to protect all wild birds and their habitats.

Under Article 9 (a) of the Directive Member States may however derogate in the interests of: public health and safety; air safety; and to prevent serious damage to crops, livestock, for- ests, fisheries and water; and for the protection of flora and fauna.

These derogations are achieved by way of declarations, which are made on an annual basis under the European Communities (Wildlife Act, 1976) (Amendment) Regulations 1986, as amended, which allows the capturing and killing of some listed bird species in certain situations. The hooded (grey) crow is included in the declaration which allows for the capturing and killing of the bird species in cases such as preventing serious damage to livestock and where they are considered a threat to public health in the spread of animal diseases.

In situations where serious damage is being caused by protected wild birds such as crows to agricultural crops, forestry plantations, other fauna, etc., there is also a facility under Sec- tion 42 of the Wildlife Acts for a person to obtain a permit from my Department to take action. Applications for such permits are considered by my Department, on a case by case basis, and can include the scaring, capturing or killing of such species. The applications are subject to examination by regional conservation staff in my Department.

11/07/2017WRW03200Commemorative Events

11/07/2017WRW03300351. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs if her Department will provide funding for a commemoration event (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32785/17]

11/07/2017WRW03400Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I would like to advise the Deputy that my Department has not yet received a request for funding from the Group referred to by him in his Question. I would be happy to consider any proposals submitted to my Department in this regard.

11/07/2017WRW03500National Monuments

11/07/2017WRW03600352. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs her views on the recommendations of the report of a group (details supplied). 382 11 July 2017 [32998/17]

11/07/2017WRW03700353. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 307 of 27 June 2017, the basis on which she decided that some groups and political representatives should be included while three campaign groups were excluded. [32999/17]

11/07/2017WRW03800Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Heather Humphreys): I propose to take Questions Nos. 352 and 353 together.

I refer to my replies to Questions Nos. 307, 308, 322, 323, 324 and 325 on 27 June 2017 and to previous Dáil Questions in which I have welcomed the report of the Moore Street Consulta- tive Group and the consensus-based approach it recommends to finding an optimal solution to the future of Moore Street that appeals to all stakeholders.

The structure of the Consultative Group and of the successor body I have established in response to the overarching recommendation of its report, represents and comprehends the aggregate of interests and points of view that exist in relation to this historic site. The objective has been to accommodate the broadest spectrum of the many overlapping groupings of stakeholders that have grown up around the issue and the consultation processes that have been put in place has also facilitated and encouraged effective input and contributions from all such interested parties, including those named by the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRW04000Services for People with Disabilities

11/07/2017WRW04100354. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Health the action he will take to deal with issues related to children with autism in other areas in view of an announced action (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32426/17]

11/07/2017WRW04200Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRW04300Medical Card Applications

11/07/2017WRW04400355. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health if he will temporarily reinstate a medical card for a person (details supplied). [32579/17]

11/07/2017WRW04500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible.

The Health Service Executive operates the General Medical Services scheme, which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended. It has established a dedicated contact service for members of the Oireachtas specifically for queries relating to medical cards and GP visit cards, which the Deputy may wish to use for an earlier 383 Questions - Written Answers response. Contact information was issued to Oireachtas members.

11/07/2017WRX00200Disability Allowance Payments

11/07/2017WRX00300356. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health the way in which rent is calculated for a person living in State care at a location (details supplied) and on disability allowance of €188; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32580/17]

11/07/2017WRX00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRX00500Health Services Funding

11/07/2017WRX00600357. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health if he will provide extra funding to a day care centre (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32617/17]

11/07/2017WRX00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRX00800Long-Term Illness Scheme Eligibility

11/07/2017WRX00900358. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health if a condition (details supplied) is covered under the long term illness scheme or another scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32067/17]

11/07/2017WRX01000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRX01100Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRX01200359. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae 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. [32068/17]

11/07/2017WRX01300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRX01400Hospital Appointments Status 384 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRX01500360. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae 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. [32069/17]

11/07/2017WRX01600Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRX01700Home Care Packages Provision

11/07/2017WRX01800361. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health his plans to introduce a statutory right to care in the home for elderly or infirm persons that wish to avail of home care packages in circumstances in which it is medically safe to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32070/17]

11/07/2017WRX01900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Government is committed to promoting care in the community for older people so that they can continue to live in their own homes for as long as possible. In this regard, the Department of Health is currently engaged in a detailed process to develop plans for a new statutory scheme and system of regulation for home care services.

The statutory scheme for home care will introduce clear rules in relation to what services individuals are eligible for and how decisions are made on allocating services. For that reason, developing a new statutory scheme will be an important step in ensuring that the system operates in a consistent and fair manner for all those who need home care services. It will also help to improve access to the home care services that people need, in an affordable and sustainable way.

I, along with Minister Harris, launched a public consultation on home care services on 6 July. The purpose of this consultation is to allow all those who have views on this topic to have their say, including older people themselves, their families, and healthcare workers. It will also help us to find out what people think about current home care services as well as the public’s views on what the future scheme should look like. I strongly urge all those with an interest in home care services to make a submission to the consultation which closes on 31 August.

A report of the findings of this consultation process will be published and the findings will be used by the Department in the development of the new home care scheme.

11/07/2017WRX02000Long Stay Residential Units

11/07/2017WRX02100362. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health the steps which are being taken to identify and secure an appropriate long stay placement for a person (details supplied) in Cork University Hospital [32074/17]

385 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRX02200Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRX02300Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRX02400363. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae 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. [32075/17]

11/07/2017WRX02500Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRX02600Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRX02700364. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite an appointment for surgery for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32076/17]

11/07/2017WRX02800Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRX02900Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRX03000365. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if he will schedule an appointment for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32084/17]

11/07/2017WRX03100Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRX03200HSE Reports 386 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRX03300366. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health if the two cases referred to in his 2016 annual review of the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013 resulted in early deliveries; and if those two cases are included or excluded in the annual report total of 25 cases. [32096/17]

11/07/2017WRX03400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013 Report on Reviews in 2016 was compiled and published by the Health Service Execu- tive under section 15 (1) of the Act. It confirms that two cases were the subject of review under the Act during 2016, and that both applications were found to meet the criteria for a lawful termination of pregnancy under the provisions of the Act.

The Department of Health does not hold records on reviews carried out under the Protec- tion of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013 or on whether or not medical procedures took place as a result of such reviews. Records held in the Department of Health are limited to notifications of procedures carried out under the Act. Reports under the Act are anonymised so as to protect women who have had terminations and their medical practitioners.

Medical procedures carried out under the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act 2013 are subject to strict patient confidentiality, in line with guidance on confidentiality in medical practice as set out in the current Medical Council Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Medical Practitioners. It is not appropriate for the Department of Health to be involved in or to comment on individual medical cases.

11/07/2017WRX03500Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRX03600367. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Clare whose operation was cancelled on 26 June 2016 will receive confirmation of a new date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32114/17]

11/07/2017WRX03700Minister 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 National Waiting List Management Policy, A standardised approach to managing scheduled care treatment for in-patient, day case and planned procedures, January 2014, has been developed to ensure that all administrative, managerial and clinical staff follow an agreed national minimum standard for the management and administration of waiting lists for scheduled care. This policy, which has been adopted by the HSE, sets out the processes that hospitals are to implement to manage waiting lists.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRX03800Hospital Facilities

11/07/2017WRX03900368. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the estimated full year cost current and capital of providing a mobile catheterisation lab for University Hospital Waterford. [32119/17]

11/07/2017WRX04000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have formally approved the deployment of 387 Questions - Written Answers a mobile cath lab at University Hospital Waterford (UHW) for a specific period during 2017. As recommended by the Herity report, an additional €500,000 has been allocated to the hospital for 2017. I have asked the HSE to maximise the benefit for patients from that funding, in respect of both additional sessions at the existing cath lab and the temporary use of the mobile cath lab, which is currently being procured in line with the normal HSE procurement process.

In relation to the specific query concerning the full year cost of a mobile cath lab for UHW, I have asked the HSE to reply to you directly.

11/07/2017WRX04100Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRX04200369. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) can expect to receive an appointment in Cork University Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32124/17]

11/07/2017WRX04300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRX04400National Maternity Strategy

11/07/2017WRX04500370. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health the way in which the €3 million allocated to maternity services in 2016 to allow for the implementation of the national maternity strategy was spent [32133/17]

11/07/2017WRX04600371. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health the way in which the extra €6.8 million allocated to maternity services in 2017 to allow for the implementation of the national maternity strategy will be or has been spent [32134/17]

11/07/2017WRX04700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 370 and 371 together.

Ireland’s first National Maternity Strategy -Creating A Better Future Together 2016 - 2026 - will be implemented on a phased basis led by the National Women & Infants Health Pro- gramme.

€3 million development funding provided for maternity services in 2016 was allocated in line with the Strategy, and included funding for additional staff, including 100 midwives, the development of specialist bereavement teams and for the implementation of the Maternal and Newborn Clinical Management System. Increased funding of €6.8m has been provided for maternity services in 2017 and will cover the full year costs of the following 2016 developments:

Appointment of Directors of Midwifery to all maternity units, as recommended by the HIQA Report on Portlaoise; 388 11 July 2017

Establishment of the National Women and Infants’ Health Programme Office: Implementation of the Flory Report into South Tipperary General Hospital; 100 additional midwives, as recommended by the Birth Rate Plus report; 14.5 bereavement counsellors, to support families after perinatal death, or traumatic event; Additional posts to facilitate the establishment of the managed clinical network between the Coombe Women and Infants’ University Hospital and Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise, within the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group. Support the implementation of the Maternity and Newborn Clinical Management System. The HSE National Women and Infants’ Health Programme is currently developing an implementation plan for the Strategy. The implementation plan is due to be completed shortly and will form the basis of the HSE’s estimates submission for maternity services in 2018.

11/07/2017WRY00300Nursing Staff Data

11/07/2017WRY00400372. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health his plans to address the situation in relation to the approximately 240 public health nurses on the transfer panel since its establishment in 2014 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32140/17]

11/07/2017WRY00500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

11/07/2017WRY00600Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRY00700373. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) can expect a hospital appointment. [32145/17]

11/07/2017WRY00800Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRY00900Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRY01000374. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) can expect a hospital appointment. [32146/17]

11/07/2017WRY01100Minister 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.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly. 389 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRY01200Health Services

11/07/2017WRY01300375. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health the person or body responsible for the health centre in Finea, County Westmeath (details supplied). [32149/17]

11/07/2017WRY01400Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRY01500Disability Services Funding

11/07/2017WRY01600376. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Health if he will provide funding for additional seven day residential care for a service (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32167/17]

11/07/2017WRY01700Minister 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 HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRY01800Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRY01900377. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) can expect an appointment in Beaumont Hospital. [32175/17]

11/07/2017WRY02000Minister 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.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRY02100Medical Aids and Appliances Provision

11/07/2017WRY02200378. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Health the supports or grants available to 390 11 July 2017 help persons to get motorised wheelchairs; the date on which these supports were ended; and the rationale behind this decision. [32201/17]

11/07/2017WRY02300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRY02400Treatment Abroad Scheme

11/07/2017WRY02500379. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health if the HSE will facilitate treatment of a person (details supplied) in a UK hospital and recoup the costs from its health insurer that has already agreed to pay for treatment. [32203/17]

11/07/2017WRY02600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE operates the Treatment Abroad Scheme (TAS) for persons entitled to treatment in another EU/EEA Member State or Switzer- land under EU Regulation (EC) No. 883/2004, as per the procedures set out in EU Regulations (EC) No. 987/2009, and in accordance with Department of Health Guidelines.

Patients apply to the HSE TAS seeking access to public healthcare outside the State through model form E112. Subject to the EU Regulations and Guidelines, the TAS provides for the cost of approved treatments in another EU/EEA member state or Switzerland through the issue of form E112 (IE) where the treatment is:

- Among the benefits provided for by Irish legislation,

- Not available in Ireland,

- Not available within the time normally necessary for obtaining it in Ireland, taking account of the patient’s current state of health and the probable course of the disease.

Applications to the TAS are processed and a determination given in accordance with the statutory framework prior to a patient travelling to avail of treatment. The statutory framework stipulates the patient must be a public patient and is required to have followed public patient pathways.

As the Treatment Abroad Scheme is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to examine this issue and respond to the Deputy directly.

11/07/2017WRY02700Drugs Payment Scheme Coverage

11/07/2017WRY02800380. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Health the status of the reimbursement of the drugs Respreeza and Zemaira; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32208/17]

11/07/2017WRY02900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drugs schemes, in accordance with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013.

The HSE has considered the issue of reimbursement of Respreeza for maintenance treatment of emphysema in adults with documented severe alpha1-proteinase inhibitor deficiency. Following this process, it has decided not to support reimbursement of the medicine.

The HSE, in such instances, is required under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013 to issue a notice of proposal to the applicant, setting out that it does not intend 391 Questions - Written Answers to reimburse this medicine and the reasons why.

The company is entitled to make written representations and is given at least 28 days in which to do so. The HSE is required to consider carefully any written representations it receives from the applicant.

The notice period for applicant company representations recently ended. The HSE is now considering the representations received from the applicant and has also met with the company.

A final decision by the HSE can only be made after the representations received under the 2013 Health Act processes have been carefully considered.

11/07/2017WRY03000Home Help Service Appeals

11/07/2017WRY03100381. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if a home help service can be reinstated for a person (details supplied) in County Cork and the issues which arose resolved. [32212/17]

11/07/2017WRY03200Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRY03300Disability Support Services Provision

11/07/2017WRY03400382. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Health the assistance available in terms of respite care, home help, speech and language therapy, medical care and toilet training for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32221/17]

11/07/2017WRY03500Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRY03600Medical Card Applications

11/07/2017WRY03700383. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made regarding a discretionary medical card application by a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32222/17]

11/07/2017WRY03800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible.

The Health Service Executive operates the General Medical Services scheme, which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended. It has established a dedicated contact service for members of the Oireachtas specifically for queries relating to medical cards and GP visit cards, which the Deputy may wish to use for an earlier 392 11 July 2017 response. Contact information was issued to Oireachtas members.

11/07/2017WRY03900Primary Care Centres Provision

11/07/2017WRY04000384. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health his plans to develop primary care facilities in Cahir, County Tipperary; the amount of funding needed to bring the project to completion; if such funding has been allocated or guaranteed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32224/17]

11/07/2017WRY04100Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRY04200Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRY04300385. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within the Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for goods and services and or changes to costs within his Department and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32228/17]

11/07/2017WRY04400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): All 2017 funding approved by the Oireach- tas for non-HSE expenditure has been allocated to-date. To end June, overall net Vote Issues are €57.5m under profile. Revenue subheads account for €21m of this variance while Capital subheads account for the remaining €36m. The positive revenue variance relates to the Depart- ment’s spending with the HSE revenue vote spend on profile. The capital underspend relates predominantly to the HSE

subheads. In the main, the variances represent timing and profiling issues which are expected to reverse prior to year end.

In the case of the HSE, €36.5m was held back at the beginning of the year pending the commencement of certain developments. Most of this funding will be approved and released in the context of the mid-year adjustment to the HSE approved level of expenditure.

At this stage, the Department does not anticipate that any programme or services allocated funding in 2017 will cease to exist in 2018.

As ongoing demographic and inflationary pressures result in cost increases in the health system year on year, there is no evidence to suggest that changes in demand for or costs of goods and services will yield savings to be reallocated to other areas in 2018.

11/07/2017WRZ00150Medical Goods Regulation

11/07/2017WRZ00300386. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health to outline the status of the application of the free style libre to be added to the reimbursement list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32230/17]

11/07/2017WRZ00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drug schemes in

393 Questions - Written Answers 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.

11/07/2017WRZ00550Hospital Services

11/07/2017WRZ00600387. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health to outline the position regarding the national review of primary percutaneous coronary intervention and percutaneous coronary intervention services being undertaken; if it will be completed by July 2017 as previously committed to; the date on which the review started; the membership of the review body; the number of meetings held to date by the body (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32231/17]

11/07/2017WRZ00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): All decisions on how we configure our health services must be evidence-based. The Deputy will be aware that, on publication of the report of Dr Niall Herity into the requirement for a second cardiac catheterisation laboratory (cath lab) at University Hospital Waterford, I indicated my intention to arrange for a national review of all primary PCI services. The aim of the review is to ensure that as many patients as possible have access on a 24/7 basis to safe and sustainable emergency interventions following a heart attack. I can confirm that this national review will proceed, and that it will be based on independent clinical expertise, and my Department is currently considering the arrangements for the review.

A separate review will be undertaken into the impact of additional investment in planned cath lab services at UHW, and this will take place after the period of deployment of a mobile cath lab at Waterford, currently being procured.

11/07/2017WRZ00850Capital Expenditure Programme

11/07/2017WRZ00900388. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health if he will make available capital funding for works (details supplied) in County Leitrim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32232/17]

11/07/2017WRZ01000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Any proposals for the traffic calming measures and signage in question must be considered in the context of the capital funding available to Health.

Given the limited funding available and our health infrastructure including equipment needs, priority for funding must be based on verified service needs and capital funding must be directed to supporting these core services. The HSE will continue to apply the available funding for infrastructure development in the most effective way possible to meet current and future needs, having regard to the level of commitments and the costs to completion already in place.

Your question has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply as the management of the healthcare property estate is a service matter.

11/07/2017WRZ01150Hospitals Car Park Charges

11/07/2017WRZ01200389. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Health if he will ask the HSE to make a concession for free parking for persons attending hospitals for ongoing cancer treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32240/17]

394 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRZ01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Over the past decade, parking charges have been introduced in many of our hospitals. It is important to note that these parking charges form part of a series of measures which ensure that the operational costs of providing parking services to visitors, staff and patients do not impact negatively on a hospital’s overall budget needed to provide healthcare services to patients.

I am advised by the HSE that it does not provide guidelines on hospital car parking and that each hospital or hospital group implements their own guidelines. I am aware that those hospitals which charge parking fees are very cognisant of the financial implications of parking costs for patients and their families, particularly those with long-term illnesses. Consequently, some hospitals have introduced a maximum daily fixed parking charge, thus capping this expense.

Some hospitals provide reduced car parking fees for patients with cancer who are attending for long-term treatment. However, there are many conditions which can require long-term care and it is difficult to prioritise one over another.

11/07/2017WRZ01450Hospital Waiting Lists

11/07/2017WRZ01500390. Deputy Fiona O’Loughlin asked the Minister for Health if he will review a case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32242/17]

11/07/2017WRZ01600Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRZ01775Hospitals Data

11/07/2017WRZ01800391. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Health to set out in tabular form the waiting times for each hospital department in each of the years 2009 to 2016 and to date in 2017 for Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32244/17]

11/07/2017WRZ01900392. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Health to set out the number of theatres and the number operational at Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital in each of the years 2009 to 2016 and to date in 2017. [32245/17]

11/07/2017WRZ02000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 391 and 392 together.

In relation to the queries raised by the Deputy, as these are service issue, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRZ02250Hospital Appointments Delays 395 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRZ02300393. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite an appointment for a person (details supplied) who is awaiting a hearing aid and was informed that he or she would be called for same within a four to five week period but who has not yet received the appointment. [32252/17]

11/07/2017WRZ02400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZ02550Generic Drugs Substitution

11/07/2017WRZ02600394. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Health to outline his plans to commence the consultation process on a national biosimilars policy, which he indicated he would commence in March 2017; the reason for the delay in launching this consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32268/17]

11/07/2017WRZ02700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Government has decided to introduce a National Biosimilar Strategy to promote the usage of biosimilar medicines in Ireland and a public consultation process will form part of the policy development.

In preparation for the consultation process and policy development my officials have conducted in-depth research on the approaches that other countries have taken to increase the usage of biosimilars and other preparatory work. This body of work is being used to shape the public consultation in order to deliver the most informative results. This data will then be used to inform the drafting of the National Biosimilar Medicines Policy.

The consultation process for the National Biosimilar Medicines policy is currently in an advanced stage of preparation and I expect it to commence in the near future.

11/07/2017WRZ02850Mental Health Services Expenditure

11/07/2017WRZ02900395. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Health to set out the unallocated spend within mental health for 2017; expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 that are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within his Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods or changes to costs within his Depart- ment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32300/17]

11/07/2017WRZ03000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRZ03150Hospital Waiting Lists

11/07/2017WRZ03200396. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Health if will expedite a surgery date for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32310/17]

11/07/2017WRZ03300Minister 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.

396 11 July 2017 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.

11/07/2017WRZ03450Neuro-Rehabilitation Policy

11/07/2017WRZ03500397. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Health when a clinical assessment of a site (details supplied) will be carried out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32314/17]

11/07/2017WRZ03600Minister 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’s (HSE’s) Na- tional Service Plan for 2017 contains a priority to finalise and progress implementation of the framework for the Neuro-Rehabilitation Strategy. The HSE Social Care Division and Clinical Programme and Strategy Division are working in tandem to progress implementation of the Strategy.

I understand that the HSE is aware of the proposal for an acquired brain injury step-down unit in Longford. However, the HSE is obliged to consider proposals for specialised residential services for people with acquired brain injury, such as that referred to by the Deputy, in the broader context of the finalisation of the implementation framework for the Neuro-rehabilitation Strategy. In this regard, the HSE has carried out a mapping exercise to establish a clear picture of where specialist rehabilitation services are currently being delivered and where the demands are for that service. The results of this exercise are now being collated.

As the Deputy’s question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the HSE for a more detailed, direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZ03750Hospital Waiting Lists

11/07/2017WRZ03800398. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will have surgery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32315/17]

11/07/2017WRZ03900Minister 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.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

397 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRZ04050Organ Donation

11/07/2017WRZ04100399. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Health to outline the position regarding changes to organ transplant legislation to allow for an opt-out system instead of the existing system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32322/17]

11/07/2017WRZ04200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Government approved the preparation of the General Scheme and Heads of a Human Tissue Bill today, 11 July 2017. This Bill will include proposals for the introduction of an opt out system for organ donation.

11/07/2017WRZ04350Palliative Care Services

11/07/2017WRZ04400400. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health to outline the steps he has taken to ensure appropriate care pathways are in place to improve cancer services and invest in end-of-life care, including the provision of hospice and end-of-life care during the perinatal period, infancy, childhood and adulthood as promised in the programme for Government; the steps he has taken to improve access to perinatal hospice care in all maternity hospitals throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32323/17]

11/07/2017WRZ04500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): In December 2009 the Department of Health published Palliative Care for Children with Life Limiting Conditions:a National Policy. The Policy provides clear direction for the development of an integrated palliative care service for children and their families, across all care settings. It aims to address the deficits identified in a national needs assessment undertaken in 2005. Following the publication of the Policy, the National Development Committee for Children’s Palliative Care (NDC) was established by the HSE to oversee the implementation of its recommendations. The Policy contains 31 recommendations under 19 headings and places significant emphasis on supporting families and health care professionals to care for children in their own homes.

The HSE National Standards for Bereavement Care following Pregnancy Loss and Perinatal Death were launched last year. The Standards 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. 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.

To support the implementation of the children’s palliative care policy, a programme of care for children with life-limiting conditions has been established including the appointment of a Paediatric Consultant with a Special Interest in Palliative Care, based in Crumlin. As well as supporting other paediatricians, the Consultant also provides clinical support and advice to maternity hospitals and neonatologists. The programme also included the appointment of 10 Chil- dren’s Outreach Nurses (CONs) whose role is to ensure that children being cared for at home by their families have access to co-ordinated and supportive services. The nurses liaise closely with statutory and voluntary service providers including local GPs, Public Health Nurses, Dis- ability Services, the Jack and Jill Foundation and LauraLynn etc. A recent independent evaluation of the Children’s Palliative Care Programme recommended that the children’s outreach nursing service be strengthened, both to meet increased demand and to address geographical inequities in service provision and work has commenced on this. The Irish Hospice Foundation

398 11 July 2017 has also agreed to fund a second Consultant post for a one-year period after which the post will be funded by the HSE.

A national programme of structured continuing professional education on caring for children with life-limiting conditions has been developed in partnership with Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin. The programme has been delivered in locations around the country and is available to all health care staff. Integrated websites for parents and health care professionals has been developed through the All Island Institute for Hospice and Palliative Care.

The HSE continues to make progress on other recommendations including the development of the model of care, the development of a model for ‘Hospice at Home’, clinical and governance protocols, standards and pathways, and bereavement care. The HSE’s Primary Care Division provides homecare packages to facilitate children with complex care needs to be cared for at home.

With regard to adult palliative care services the HSE in partnership with a number of voluntary organisations provides community palliative care (home care) in every county across the country.

For the first five months of this year 91.6% of accepted homecare referrals were seen within seven days. Specialist palliative care inpatient beds (IPU) are provided in 11 locations and 96.4% of accepted referrals were admitted within seven days. There are plans in place to open an additional seven hospices within the next five years.

11/07/2017WRAA00250Hospice Services Provision

11/07/2017WRAA00300401. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health when construction will proceed on the new hospice unit at St Theresa’s Hospital; the efforts are being made to bring into operation further hospices, the construction of which local communities have funded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32325/17]

11/07/2017WRAA00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRAA00550Capital Expenditure Programme

11/07/2017WRAA00600402. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health to outline in tabular form the reason health capital expenditure was €36 million behind profile at the end of June 2017; and the projects that have not been in receipt of funds that should have been allocated at this stage. [32326/17]

11/07/2017WRAA00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I am advised by the HSE that expenditure on construction and equipping is currently under profile due to timing issues on the progress of a number of projects which have not progressed as initially projected. Expenditure is expected to progress steadily as construction begins, and the notified capital allocation in 2017 will be spent.

11/07/2017WRAA00850Mental Health Services Data

11/07/2017WRAA00900403. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health to set down the number of

399 Questions - Written Answers children and adolescents waiting for mental health services in County Tipperary; the waiting times for services in County Tipperary; the efforts that have been taken to improve capacity in the child and adolescent mental health services to ensure that all children and teenagers receive the appropriate care; if he has satisfied himself with the waiting times for CAMHS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32330/17]

11/07/2017WRAA01000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRAA01150Respite Care Services Provision

11/07/2017WRAA01200404. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Health to outline his views on the lack of respite care provision for both persons with disabilities that are under and over 18 years of age; if he has discussed this issue with his Department officials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32337/17]

11/07/2017WRAA01300Minister 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. The Health Service Executive’s (HSE’s) Social Care Operational Plan for 2017 aims to provide 182,000 overnight stays in centre-based respite services, in addition to 41,000 day respite sessions. There are 210 new home support / in home respite supports for emergency cases and 185 new emergency residential placements in the 2017 HSE National Service Plan.

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.

11/07/2017WRAA01450Disability Support Services

11/07/2017WRAA01500405. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Health if he has received correspondence or met groups from the disability sector regarding their inability to pay the recent increases from public sector pay deal to their staff; if they do so, the estimated impact this will have on actual disability services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32340/17]

11/07/2017WRAA01600Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): I wish to inform the Deputy that I recently received correspondence from a number of Section 39 agencies in the disability sector regarding the matter of pay increases for staff.

Section 39 of the Health Act 2004, provides that the Health Service Executive (HSE) may “give assistance to any person or body that provides or proposes to provide, a service similar or ancillary to a service that the Executive may provide.” Such assistance may range from contributing to the expenses incurred by that person or body, to allowing them use of an HSE premises. Financial assistance is provided in the form of a grant and the value of such grants can vary.

Where the HSE provides a grant to a voluntary service provider under Section 39, the HSE 400 11 July 2017 puts in place a Service Level Agreement with the provider. This sets out the level of service to be provided for the grant received. It is important to note that any individuals employed by these Section 39 organisations are not HSE employees. The HSE has no role in determining the salaries or other terms and conditions applying to these staff. It is an accepted fact that staff of these Section 39 organisations are not public servants. This means they were not subject to FEMPI legislation which imposed pay reductions or to the provisions of the subsequent Public Service Agreements which provide for pay restoration.

It is a matter for Section 39 organisations to negotiate salaries with their staff as part of their employment relationship and within the overall funding available for the delivery of agreed services.

11/07/2017WRAA01750Primary Care Centres Provision

11/07/2017WRAA01800406. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health to outline his plans for a new health centre in Moate, County Westmeath; the timeframe for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32341/17]

11/07/2017WRAA01900Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRAA02050HSE Properties

11/07/2017WRAA02100407. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if the non-payment of a subcontractor by a contractor that was awarded a contract by the HSE can be investigated (details supplied); if the HSE was satisfied with the works carried out by the subcontractor; if they fully complied with certification and standards; if the main contractor has been paid the full amount of the contract price; his views and the views of the HSE on whether it is appropriate for non- payment to the subcontractor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32364/17]

11/07/2017WRAA02200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The management of the healthcare property estate and the delivery of health care projects is a service matter. Therefore, the Health Service Executive has been requested to reply directly to you in relation to your question on the payment of subcontractors by contractors.

11/07/2017WRAA02350HSE Properties

11/07/2017WRAA02400408. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1309 of 20 June 2017 to outline the rationale for selling this property and the HSE leasing it back; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32386/17]

11/07/2017WRAA02500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Your question has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply as the management of the healthcare property estate is a service matter.

11/07/2017WRAA02650Mental Health Services

401 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRAA02700409. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1310 of 20 June 2017 to outline the reason for the delay in bringing the memo to Gov- ernment relating to the proposal that the proceeds of the sale of the Central Mental Hospital, Dundrum will be made available to the HSE for investment in health care projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32387/17]

11/07/2017WRAA02800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Government commitment to delivering a new central mental hospital is clearly articulated in the Programme for Government, and funding has been earmarked for this purpose in the Capital Plan. Therefore, the construction of the National Forensic Mental Health Services Hospital in Portrane is not dependant on the sale of the Dundrum site. That said, there is a Government decision and policy as set out in ‘A Vision for Change’ that proceeds from the sale of older mental health assets, such as the Dundrum site, will be reinvested in new developments within mental health.

As previously advised, the disposal or otherwise of the site of the Central Mental Hospital in Dundrum cannot proceed until such time as the hospital is vacated, following the completion of the new National Forensic Mental Health Services Hospital in Portrane.

11/07/2017WRAA02950Health Services Provision

11/07/2017WRAA03000410. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1078 of 20 June 2017 if he will direct the relevant national clinical programme office to assess the practices at a clinic (details supplied) as a potential model of best practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32388/17]

11/07/2017WRAA03100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Developing a dedicated clinic for diagnosis and treatment of Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) has many challenges. The HSE has advised that within the model of care for the National Clinical Programme for Neurology, the development of tertiary services/clinics are advocated in conditions with lower prevalence, where there isn’t the volume to support development of expertise across a larger number of sites, for example specialist clinics in Motor Neurone Disease.

The suggestion of developing one dedicated clinic to oversee the care of 12,000 ME patients may not be an answer to supporting patients appropriately. One clinic supporting this number of patients would inevitably result in significant waiting times of patients, both new and review, and may not allow the service be responsive to the needs of patients with ME. This has report- edly been the experience in the Stora Sköndal ME/CFS clinic in Sweden, where they had to refuse referrals with demand outweighing capacity.

At present, it is difficult to determine how many people with ME are being seen in Neurol- ogy OPD services nationally.

Information on waiting times per speciality and per hospital is all that is currently available to the neurology programme, and as such we do not have accurate information on the demand on neurology services or indeed other specialties including:

- Rheumatology;

- Pain Specialists;

- Endocrinology;

- Immunology;

402 11 July 2017 - Cardiology etc.

An ME clinic would need to have representation from across these speciality areas, therefore, to have a clinic led or delivered by one speciality may not meet the needs of patients appropriately. While the need for accurate diagnosis is crucial, it is acknowledged that the ‘hospital’ based services represent a very limited aspect of the overall patient journey and the focus going forward is on how the whole health service, not only hospitals, support people in managing their health and wellbeing.

11/07/2017WRAA03200Nursing Homes Support Scheme

11/07/2017WRAA03300411. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health to outline his plans to address concerns that are emerging regarding the incurring of additional social charges for nursing home residents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32399/17]

11/07/2017WRAA03400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Nursing Homes Support Scheme (NHSS), commonly referred to as A Fair Deal is a system of financial support for people who require long-term residential care. Participants contribute to the cost of their care according to their means while the State pays the balance of the cost.

The NHSS covers the cost of the standard components of long-term residential care which are:

- Nursing and personal care appropriate to the level of care needs of the person;

- Bed and board;

- Basic aids and appliances necessary to assist a person with the activities of daily living; and

- Laundry service.

A person’s eligibility for other schemes, such as the medical card scheme or the drugs payment scheme, is unaffected by participation in the NHSS or residence in a nursing home. In determining the services covered by the NHSS it was considered very important that the care recipient and the taxpayer would be protected and would not end up paying for the same services twice. For this reason, medications and aids that are already prescribed for individuals under an existing scheme are not included in the services covered by the NHSS, as this would involve effectively paying twice for the same service.

Although the NHSS covers core living expenses, residents can still incur some costs in a nursing home, such as social programmes, newspapers or hairdressing. In recognition of this, anyone in receipt of financial support under the NHSS retains at least 20% of their income. The minimum amount that is retained is the equivalent of 20% of the State Pension (Non-Contrib- utory). An operator should not seek payment from residents for items which are covered by the NHSS, the medical card or any other existing scheme.

Part 7 of the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2013 stipulates that the registered provider of the nursing home must agree a contract in writing with each resident on their admission to the nursing home. This contract must include details of the services to be provided to that resident and the fees to be charged. Residents should never be charged fees which are not set out in the contract. The De- partment of Health and the HSE are not a party to such contracts which are concluded between

403 Questions - Written Answers each resident and the private or voluntary nursing home.

Registered providers of nursing home care are obliged to provide an accessible and effective complaints procedure. Concerns about additional charges should in the first instance be taken up with the nursing home provider. The Office of the Ombudsman can examine complaints about the actions of a range of public bodies and, from 24 August 2015, complaints relating to the administrative actions of private nursing homes. The Office of the Ombudsman normally only deals with a complaint once the individual has already gone through the complaints procedure of the private nursing home concerned.

I have recently met with both Nursing Homes Ireland and Age Action to discuss this issue in detail. In order to improve the transparency of these additional charges, I outlined that a schedule of charges should be provided to potential residents on enquiry to an individual nursing home, rather than at the point of admission. Nursing Homes Ireland undertook to advise their members to do so. I will also be meeting with both the National Treatment Purchase Fund and HIQA over the coming weeks to discuss this matter further.

I have asked the Interdepartmental/Agency Working Group established to oversee the implementation of certain recommendations contained in the 2015 Review of the Nursing Homes Support Scheme to also consider this matter and examine the options that might be available, as part of its ongoing work.

I am committed to ensuring that our older population are protected, that they get the care that they deserve, and that they have access to all of the information they need in order to be able to make an informed decision, especially at such a vulnerable stage in their lives.

11/07/2017WRAA03500Hospital Procedures

11/07/2017WRAA03600412. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health if there is a protocol in place for the way in which hospitals deal with the belongings and possessions of those who pass away in hospital; if so, the requirements in this regard; if not, if his Department will give consideration to preparing a protocol to include sanctions for breaching the protocol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32401/17]

11/07/2017WRAA03700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRAA03800Mental Health Services Staff

11/07/2017WRAA03900413. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health to set down the number of mental health nurse vacancies in a hospital (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32409/17]

11/07/2017WRAA04000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

11/07/2017WRAA04100Home Care Packages Expenditure

11/07/2017WRAA04200414. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health if he will support a request by an organisation (details supplied) for an increased allocation of €40 million in budget 2018 to

404 11 July 2017 provide additional intensive home care packages for persons suffering from dementia, the appointment of back-up advisers and co-ordinators to support persons suffering from dementia and their families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32416/17]

11/07/2017WRAA04300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Irish National Dementia Strategy was launched in December 2014, with the objective of increasing awareness, ensuring early diagnosis and intervention and developing enhanced community based services.

In parallel with the Strategy, the Department of Health and the HSE have agreed a joint initiative with the Atlantic Philanthropies to implement significant elements of the Strategy over the period 2014-2017. This Implementation Programme represents a combined investment of €27.5 million, with the Atlantic Philanthropies contributing €12 million and the HSE €15.5 million.

Key elements of the initiative include:

- the roll-out of a programme of Intensive Home Supports and Home Care Packages for people with dementia valued at €22.1 million over a three year period;

- the provision of additional dementia-specific resources for GPs, to include training materials and guidance on local services and contact points valued at €1.2 million;

- measures to raise public awareness, address stigma and promote the inclusion and involvement in society of those with dementia valued at €2.7 million.

The roll out of Intensive Home Care packages commenced in January 2015 and monitoring of the allocation and uptake of these packages to persons with dementia is ongoing. By May 2017, the HSE had delivered a total of 217 dementia-specific intensive homecare packages at an average cost of €953 per week. There are currently 122 people with dementia in receipt of an Intensive Home Care Package with a further 16 approved and 12 applications in progress. In addition to the Intensive Home Care Packages the HSE has continued to provide mainstream home help and routine Home Care packages to people with dementia whose needs have been assessed as requiring these supports and within available resources. Up to 500 people with dementia and their families are expected to benefit from Intensive Home Care Packages over the lifetime of the implementation programme.

It is Government policy that, wherever possible and appropriate, people should be cared for in their own homes and communities, and the National Dementia Strategy specifically restates this commitment to those living with dementia.

The Department and the HSE are working on a mid-term review of the implementation of the National Dementia Strategy which will be published in the Autumn and will identify the achievements so far and set out the further work that is required to implement the Strategy over the next 12 months and beyond. The resources required for the ongoing implementation of the Strategy can only be considered in the context of the Estimates and Budget process. The mid- term review will assist in identifying further actions required and will be helpful in the context of budgetary considerations.

I have seen the organisation’s pre-budget submission and have noted the contents. The proposals contained in the pre-buget submission will be considered as part of this process.

11/07/2017WRAA04400Respite Care Services Provision

405 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRAA04500415. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Health if a person (details supplied) who is being transitioned to adult services will receive a minimum of six days respite care a month, as recommended by treating physicians; if the person will not receive a reduction in service hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32421/17]

11/07/2017WRAA04600Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRBB00200Hospital Waiting Lists

11/07/2017WRBB00300416. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the number of children waiting for scoliosis treatment in Our Lady’s Children’s hospital, Crumlin; the waiting times; the number of children waiting more than four months; the coordinators appointed to coordinate the scoliosis service across treating hospitals as set out under the HSE scoliosis waiting list action plan; the plans being put in place for children waiting more than six months; when they will receive treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32422/17]

11/07/2017WRBB00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In relation to the queries raised by the Dep- uty, as these are service issues, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRBB00500Health Services Provision

11/07/2017WRBB00600417. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the progress that has been made in the employment of additional resources in south Tipperary therapy services to meet the need for assessment of need and to address the waiting lists for assessment; the number of new therapists that have been employed by the HSE in south Tipperary in the past six months; the number of new therapists required and the specialties of each; the length of time that such therapist vacancies have existed; the exact steps taken to fill these vacancies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32423/17]

11/07/2017WRBB00700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRBB00800Obesity Strategy

11/07/2017WRBB00900418. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to parliamentary Ques- tion No. 191 of 21 June 2017, when exactly the national reformulation technical working group to agree targets for reducing fat, sugar and salt will be established; the person that will decide upon membership of this group; the person with responsibility for cooperation with the EU reformulation project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32428/17]

11/07/2017WRBB01000419. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health the data that exists in relation to sugar, fat and salt reformulation by the food and beverage industry here in the past ten years; the body which is monitoring the reformulation; the body which has monitored and verified the reduction in sugar in still and carbonated soft drinks since 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32429/17]

11/07/2017WRBB01100420. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health the details of the reformulation sub group of the special action group on obesity; the terms of reference of the group; and if he 406 11 July 2017 will make a statement on the matter. [32430/17]

11/07/2017WRBB01200421. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that an assessment of a report (details supplied) noted that it contained some unsub- stantiated assumptions; the action being taken to ensure that the industry is being monitored in its reformulation targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32431/17]

11/07/2017WRBB01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 418 to 421, inclusive, together.

In line with the relevant actions in the National Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016-2025, a Food Reformulation Working Group is being established and membership is being determined by my Department.

Ireland is actively involved in the EU Food Reformulation Project and is represented by my Department on the EU High Level Group on Nutrition and Physical Activity. The EU High Level Group is agreeing EU targets for reformulation of foods and beverages with Member States across Europe.

I am not is a position to pre-empt the work of the group in advance of the process to it being finalised, but I can say that the Working Group will be a technical group and appropriate health, nutrition and food experts are being identified by my Department and draft terms of reference are being prepared. The Working Group is expected to meet in early autumn to draw up a draft national Roadmap for Food Reformulation following which there will be consultation with the food industry.

The food industry, Food Drink Ireland, has annually presented their reformulation programme and updates to the Department’s Special Action Group on Obesity, the most recent being the Crème Report and the food industry have liaised with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland for validation of their work.

11/07/2017WRBB01700Health Services Provision

11/07/2017WRBB01800422. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health when diagnostic services will be extended to a medical centre (details supplied) to help alleviate pressures on South Tipperary General Hospital; if he will issue a response on this matter as promised by An Taoiseach during Leaders’ Questions on 23 May 2017; the exact date of an extension of such a contract following a successful short term initiative carried out by community healthcare organisation, CHO, 5 to relieve pressures in South Tipperary General Hospital; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this short term initiative was not continued despite the fact that the hospital continues to operate a full capacity protocol; the steps he will take to ensure that the HSE finalise this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32443/17]

11/07/2017WRBB01900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Delivering on the commitment made during the Leaders Questions referred to above, I understand that you have received the response which issued recently from my office.

The initiative at Mary Street Medical Centre commenced in CHO 5 on Monday, 6th Febru- ary 2017 and referrals were to be accepted for a two week period, concluding on Friday 17th February 2017. I understand the short time frame and level of spend was informed by obligations under financial regulations. In this regard, predicted activity and associated costs indicated a two week time frame to be appropriate.

407 Questions - Written Answers As advised, I understand that this initiative was developed as a temporary intervention and, as such, has not been extended. However, I am assured that CHO 5 remains committed to securing a long term solution to the provision of GP direct access to diagnostics and to progressing this matter in collaboration with the HSE Primary Care Division. Appraisal of options and any such solution will be informed by the principles of sound clinical governance, value for money, sustainability and maximisation of existing facilities. All potential solutions will be subject to procurement and financial regulations as appropriate.

I am aware that a key priority for the HSE, as set out in the National Service Plan, 2017 is to consolidate the provision of ultrasound in primary care sites and expand the provision of direct access to x-ray services within existing resources. I can advise you that the HSE is currently working on proposals from the Community Health Organisation areas and Hospital Groups to support the development and enhancement of diagnostic primary care services.

11/07/2017WRBB02000Health Services Provision

11/07/2017WRBB02100423. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health if art therapists are employed by the HSE; if so, the number of same, by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32448/17]

11/07/2017WRBB02200Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRBB02300Health Services Staff Remuneration

11/07/2017WRBB02400424. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if section 39 organisations will be funded by his Department or the HSE relative to pay restoration and increments due to some staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32461/17]

11/07/2017WRBB02500507. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Health if he will increase the allocation to section 38 and section 39 agencies to enable them to pay their employees the most recent interim pay increase lump sum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32806/17]

11/07/2017WRBB02600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 424 and 507 together.

The Lansdowne Road Agreement provided for an increase of €1,000 in annualised salaries of those earning up to €65,000 due to be paid from 1 September 2017. However, in order to address the anomalies which arose following the Labour Court Recommendation for certain Garda Associations, the Government agreed to bring this date forward to 1 April 2017 for these civil and public servants who did not stand to benefit from this Labour Court Recommendation.

No additional finding has been provided to the HSE to pay for this increase for the period 1 April 2017 to 31 August 2017 to its employees. Funding had been provided in the National Service Plan to fund this payment from 1 September 2017.

Section 39 organisations are not encompassed by the Public Service Stability Agreements and are therefore not obliged to pass on any pay reductions to their staff members or to provide for any pay restoration that may be negotiated as part of these public service agreements. Neither the HSE nor the Department of Health have any role in determining the pay rates or terms and conditions of Section 39 staff. It is a matter for Section 39 organisations to negotiate salaries with their staff as part of their employment relationship and within the overall funding 408 11 July 2017 available for the delivery of agreed services.

11/07/2017WRBB02700Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRBB02800425. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if an immediate appointment will be arranged for a person (details supplied). [32462/17]

11/07/2017WRBB02900Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRBB03000Medical Card Applications

11/07/2017WRBB03100426. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if he will recognise the EU rights of a person (details supplied) under regulation (EC) 883/04 relative to their current application for a medical card; if a medical card will be issued based on the information provided and as stipulated under the EU regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32465/17]

11/07/2017WRBB03200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible. The Health Service Executive operates the General Medical Services scheme, which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended. It has established a dedicated contact service for members of the Oireachtas specifically for queries relating to medical cards and GP visit cards, which the Deputy may wish to use for an earlier response. Contact information was issued to Oireachtas members.

11/07/2017WRBB03300National Children’s Hospital

11/07/2017WRBB03400427. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health further to parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1195 of 20 June 2017, the details of the referenced 25 UK hospitals, 200 US hospitals and those hospitals in the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32485/17]

11/07/2017WRBB03500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The National Paediatric Hospital Develop- ment Board (NPHDB) is the statutory body charged with delivery of the capital project.

I have asked the NPHDB to respond to you directly regarding the details of the 25 UK hospitals, 200 US hospitals and those hospitals in the Middle East referenced in the HSE reply to parliamentary question 1195 of 20 June 2017.

11/07/2017WRBB03600National Maternity Strategy

409 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRBB03700428. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the status of the application for planning permission for the new national maternity hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32495/17]

11/07/2017WRBB03800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): On 10 March last, a planning application for the new National Maternity Hospital was submitted to An Bord Pleanála. A public oral hearing was held at the end of May and a decision on the application is expected by 11 September 2017.

11/07/2017WRBB03900National Maternity Strategy

11/07/2017WRBB04000429. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the implementation of the national maternity strategy; the composition of the steering group; the number of times it has met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32496/17]

11/07/2017WRBB04100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Ireland’s first National Maternity Strategy Creating A Better Future Together 2016 - 2026 - will be implemented on a phased basis led by the National Women & Infants Health Programme. The Programme is currently finalising a detailed action plan to inform this process; this work includes the identification of funding requirements, which will in turn inform the annual Estimates process over the lifetime of the Strategy.

€3 million development funding provided for maternity services in 2016 was allocated in line with the Strategy, and included funding for additional staff, including 100 midwives, the development of specialist bereavement teams and for the implementation of the Maternal and Newborn Clinical Management System. Increased funding of €6.8m has been provided for maternity services in 2017 which will allow for the continued implementation of the Strategy.

In relation to the Deputy’s question regarding the steering group, I assume he is referring to the group which was established to advise on the development of the Strategy Implementation plan. That group has convened 4 times since April 2017 and the composition is as follows:

1. Mr Kilian McGrane (Chair) National Programme Director, National Women and Infants’ Health Programme;

2. Dr Peter McKenna, National Clinical Director, National Women and Infants’ Health Pro- gramme;

3. Ms Angela Dunne, Director of Midwifery, National Women and Infants’ Health Pro- gramme;

4. Ms Emma Bradley, Department of Health;

5. Ms Joan Regan, Department of Health;

6. Ms Sheila Surgue, HSE ONMSD Midwifery Lead;

7. Dr Peter Boylan, Chair Institute of Obstetrics & Gynaecology;

8. Ms Mary Brosnan, Director of Midwifery, NMH;

9. Ms Martina Durkan, Patient Focus;

10. Ms Brigid Doherty, Patient Focus;

11. Mr Declan Devane, Professor of Midwifery, NUIG; 410 11 July 2017 12. Ms Meabh Ni Bhuinneain, Consultant Obstetrician, UHM;

13. Ms Colette Cowan, Group CEO, UL Hospital Group;

14. Mr Pat O’Dowd, HSE Assistant National Director, Primary Care; and

15. Ms. Angela Fitzgerald, HSE Assistant National Director, AHD.

11/07/2017WRBB04200Hospital Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRBB04300430. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the details of plans to develop a new master plan for South Tipperary General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32497/17]

11/07/2017WRBB04400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Master Plan for South Tipperary Gen- eral Hospital will provide for the orderly development of the campus. The HSE has advised that the Master Plan has been drafted and is currently being reviewed by the South/South West Hospital Group.

11/07/2017WRCC00200Medicinal Products Reimbursement

11/07/2017WRCC00300431. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health if he will review a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32501/17]

11/07/2017WRCC00400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicines under the community drugs schemes, in accordance with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013.

In reaching a reimbursement decision, the HSE examines all the evidence which may be relevant in its view, including information submitted by the applicant. It will also take into account expert opinions and recommendations which it may have sought, for example from the National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics (NCPE). In addition, the HSE will have regard to the criteria set out in the 2013 Act, including the cost effectiveness of the item and the resources available.

The NCPE completed a health technology assessment of ataluren (Translarna) in April 2016 and did not recommend reimbursement.

The HSE considered all information related to ataluren (Translarna) and did not support its reimbursement.

The company was informed of this decision and, under the 2013 Health Act, was entitled to make written representations to the HSE within 28 days of the decision having been made. The notice period for applicant representations recently ended and the HSE is now considering the representations received from the applicant.

A final decision can only be made after the representations have been carefully considered.

11/07/2017WRCC00500Ambulance Service

11/07/2017WRCC00600432. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the date on which the HSE re-

411 Questions - Written Answers ceived a report (details supplied) into the structure of ambulance services; and when it will be published. [32525/17]

11/07/2017WRCC00700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The report referred to by the Deputy was commissioned by the HSE. While I understand that this review has been completed, the question of when it was received, its publication, and the timing of same, is a matter for the Execu- tive, who I have asked to respond to the Deputy directly.

11/07/2017WRCC00800Orthodontic Services Provision

11/07/2017WRCC00900433. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Health the number of persons awaiting orthodontic treatment in the north west region (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32530/17]

11/07/2017WRCC01000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRCC01100Mental Health Commission Reports

11/07/2017WRCC01200434. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Health if training has been provided to staff of financial institutions that are dealing with customers in arrears in line with the Mental Health Commission’s 2011 report, the Human Cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32532/17]

11/07/2017WRCC01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRCC01400Ambulance Service Provision

11/07/2017WRCC01500435. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health his plans to provide additional resources to improve ambulance services in counties Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32537/17]

11/07/2017WRCC01600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRCC01700Living Wage Implementation

11/07/2017WRCC01800436. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32564/17]

11/07/2017WRCC01900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked that the HSE respond to you directly on the aspect of the question that relates to their public sector employees. In relation to Non-Commercial State Agencies under the remit of the Department, this information is being sought and will be forwarded to the Deputy when collated.

11/07/2017WRCC02000Health Insurance Community Rating 412 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRCC02100437. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health his plans to reduce Government levies for private health premiums; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32577/17]

11/07/2017WRCC02200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Our community rated health insurance market is supported by a Risk Equalisation Scheme, which in turn is funded by a community rating levy payable by insurers on all health insurance policies written. All money raised by the imposition of these levies is paid back to insurers in the form of credits, with the particular objective of keeping health insurance more affordable for older and less healthy citizens. The community rating levy does not contribute to general Exchequer funding, rather it is used specifically to redistribute funds between insurers to meet some of the additional costs of insuring older members.

Each year, the independent Health Insurance Authority (HIA) carries out an evaluation of the market and recommends the level of credits that should apply the following year, taking into account factors such as the changing demographic profile of the insured population and other market developments. The HIA report will be submitted to my Department in October, to inform the level of risk equalisation credits, and corresponding stamp duties required to fund those credits, next year.

11/07/2017WRCC02300Health Services

11/07/2017WRCC02400438. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health if it is mandatory for a member of staff of a State institution (details supplied) to accompany a resident to a medical appointment; if it is permissible for the resident’s next-of-kin to accompany the person alone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32581/17]

11/07/2017WRCC02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRCC02600Health Services Expenditure

11/07/2017WRCC02700439. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the annual and operational cost in relation to the hospital inpatient inquiry system and its operation by the Economic and Social Research Institute up to the end of 2013 and subsequently by the Healthcare Pricing Of- fice for each of the years from 2007 to 2016 inclusive. [32583/17]

11/07/2017WRCC02800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have referred this to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRCC02900Occupational Therapy

11/07/2017WRCC03000440. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of paediatric occupational therapists in CHO area 9 in each of the years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32592/17]

11/07/2017WRCC03100Minister 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.

413 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRCC03200Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRCC03300441. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite a surgery appointment for a person (details supplied). [32602/17]

11/07/2017WRCC03400Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRCC03500Occupational Therapy

11/07/2017WRCC03600442. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 622 of 11 April 2017, if a person (details supplied) is on the occupational therapy priority waiting list; the way in which they are being prioritised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32603/17]

11/07/2017WRCC03700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRCC03800Assisted Decision Making

11/07/2017WRCC03900443. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Health his plans for the development of independent advocacy services to support vulnerable persons in view of the enactment of the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015 and the planned Disability (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2016; his further plans to prepare for the implementation of the Safeguarding of Vulnerable Adults Bill 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32610/17]

11/07/2017WRCC04000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Assisted Deci- sion Making (Capacity) Act 2015, which is the responsibility of the Department of Justice and Equality, provides for the establishment of the Decision Support Service within the Mental Health Commission to support decision-making by and for adults with capacity difficulties and to regulate individuals who are providing support to people with capacity difficulties. A Steer- ing Group chaired by the Department of Justice and Equality has been set up to progress the establishment of the Decision Support Service and this work is ongoing.

414 11 July 2017 There are many Departments and agencies involved in the provision of advocacy services and as the Department of Social Protection has the remit for advocacy services for people with a disability, I will refer this matter to my colleague, Minister Regina Doherty, to respond to you directly.

The development of appropriate legislation for the safeguarding of vulnerable adults is currently under consideration. As indicated by Minister Harris during the second stage debate on Senator Colette Kelleher’s Adult Safeguarding Bill 2017, the Government supports the principle of providing a legislative basis for the safeguarding of vulnerable adults. This is a broad piece of work that will involve an extensive scoping exercise across a number of different sectors to determine the precise nature of legislation that may be required.

In identifying the major legislative gaps and preferred approach to addressing these, in consultation with other Government Departments and stakeholders, the Government will be in a position to determine the Departments and agencies most equipped to lead on the development of legislative solutions and to implement them.

The Department of Health is liaising with the Office of the Attorney General with a view to asking the Law Reform Commission to conduct a scoping exercise on the nature of the legislation necessary for the safeguarding of vulnerable people and the promotion of their rights. Ap- propriate implementation and legislative proposals will be developed as this work progresses.

11/07/2017WRCC04100Hospital Procedures

11/07/2017WRCC04200444. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Health when a hip operation will be provided for a person (details supplied) at University Hospital Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32613/17]

11/07/2017WRCC04300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRCC04400Health Services Staff Data

11/07/2017WRCC04500445. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Health the number of urologists employed by the HSE; the location of each; the average wait times for urologist appointments in each of the years 2010 to 2016 and to date in 2017; if the HSE plans to recruit further urologists; and if so, the locations in which these new urologists will be located [32614/17]

11/07/2017WRCC04600Minister 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.

415 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRDD00200Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRDD00300446. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) can expect a hospital appointment. [32616/17]

11/07/2017WRDD00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Finian McGrath): 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.

11/07/2017WRDD00500Health Services

11/07/2017WRDD00600447. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Health the advocacy services that are available to a person resident in a State institution (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32618/17]

11/07/2017WRDD00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRDD00800Health Services Funding

11/07/2017WRDD00900448. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Health if he will award funding for a day care centre place to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32621/17]

11/07/2017WRDD01000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRDD01100Medical Card Applications

11/07/2017WRDD01200449. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made in respect of a medical card application submitted by a person (details supplied) in County Galway; the reason for the delay in making a decision on this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32640/17]

11/07/2017WRDD01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible. The Health Service Executive operates the General Medical Services scheme, which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended. It has established a dedicated contact service for members of the Oireachtas specifically for queries relating to medical cards and GP visit cards, which the Deputy may wish to use for an earlier response. Contact information was issued to Oireachtas members.

11/07/2017WRDD01400Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRDD01500450. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae 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. [32641/17]

11/07/2017WRDD01600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Ser- 416 11 July 2017 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.

11/07/2017WRDD01700Ministerial Meetings

11/07/2017WRDD01800451. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Health if he has received a request from a group (details supplied) seeking a meeting; his plans to meet the group in order to discuss the matters raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32642/17]

11/07/2017WRDD01900Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): Requests to meet my colleague Minister Harris are normally arranged through his Office. As a request has been made, I have no doubt that the Minister’s Office will reply in due course.

11/07/2017WRDD02000Medical Card Applications

11/07/2017WRDD02100452. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health when a decision will be made on a medical card application by a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32643/17]

11/07/2017WRDD02200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible. The Health Service Executive operates the General Medical Services scheme, which includes medical cards and GP visit cards, under the Health Act 1970, as amended. It has established a dedicated contact service for members of the Oireachtas specifically for queries relating to medical cards and GP visit cards, which the Deputy may wish to use for an earlier response. Contact information was issued to Oireachtas members.

11/07/2017WRDD02300Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRDD02400453. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32653/17]

11/07/2017WRDD02500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Department does not collect data in a manner to allow the Deputy’s question to be answered in full. As much information as we have to hand is included here. The following tables are in respect of photography expenditure (table 1), advertising expenditure (table 2) and PR expenditure (table 3). Details of to whom payments were made or the campaign to which the expenditure related are provided where that information is available. 417 Questions - Written Answers Table 1 Photography

Year Event Photographer Cost € 2016 Photo services for Conor McCabe Pho- 1,968 the 1st National Pa- tography Ltd tient Safety Confer- ence 2016 Photo services for Marc O’Sullivan 707 the launch of the Photography Healthy Cities and Counties Network of Ireland 2016 Photo services for Marc O’Sullivan 553 the launch of the Photography Healthy Ireland Sur- vey Wave 2 2016 Launch of the Na- JCP Photography 492 tional Drugs Strategy Public Consultation 2016 Photo services for Conor McCabe Pho- 430 the launch of the tography Ltd Obesity Policy and Action Plan 2016 Photo services for Conor McCabe Pho- 553 the launch of the tography Ltd National Physical Activity Plan 2016 Reaffirming the Val- Stephen Wall Morris 301 ues of Nursing and Midwifery 2015 Department of Robbie Reynolds 600 Health Consultation Photography Event 2015 2015 Photography for the Mark Stedman 450 launch of National Sexual Health Strat- egy 2015 Photography for Marc O’Sullivan 450 launch of the Healthy Ireland Sur- vey 2015 2015 Photography for new Conor O’Mearain 150 Healthy Ireland website and social media 2015 Purchase of stock Shutterstock 39 photography for Healthy Ireland website

418 11 July 2017 Year Event Photographer Cost € 2014 All Ireland Chief Conor McCabe Pho- 369 Nursing Officers’ tography Ltd Conference 2014 HSE Aviva Stake- Conor McCabe Pho- 308 holder Consultation tography Ltd 2014 All Ireland Chief Robbie Reynolds 308 Nursing Officers’ Photography Ltd Conference 2014 Portrait of Council Conor McCabe Pho- 1,046 Members - Healthy tography Ltd Ireland 2014 Launch of the Na- Conor McCabe Pho- 431 tional Rare Disease tography Ltd Plan for Ireland 2014 A Ministerial Meet- Robbie Reynolds 246 ing of the British Photography Ltd Irish Council – Mis- use of Substances Sectoral Group, Dublin Castle 2013 Symposium for Robbie Reynolds 738 Senior Pharmaceuti- Photography Ltd cal Policy-makers on 29-30 August 2013 2013 Joint Meeting of Fennells 105 Chief Medical Of- ficers and Chief Nursing Officers 2013 National Drugs Co- Fennells 117 ordinators Meeting April 2013 2013 NPHDB /CHGB 1Image Photography 314 Joint Induction Day Photo Session 1/10/13 2013 Photography Costs Donagh Glavin Pho- 234 for John Higgins tography Chair of the Strategic Board on Hospital Groups 2013 Tobacco Free Ireland Conor McCabe Pho- 554 Launch tography Ltd 2013 First National Clini- Derek Speirs 437 cal Effectiveness Symposium 2013 Launch of the Photocall Ireland 559 Healthy Ireland Report

419 Questions - Written Answers Year Event Photographer Cost € 2013 Launch of Healthy Robbie Reynolds 615 Ireland Report Photography Ltd 2012 2nd National Patient Derek Speirs 317 Safety Conference 2012 Consultation Day on Conor McCabe Pho- 430 Rare Disease Plan tography Ltd for Ireland 2012 Closing Conference Tommy Clancy Pho- 584 to mark the end of tography the European Year for Active Age- ing and Solidarity between Generations 2012 in Ireland (in which the Depart- ment of Health was co-ordinating) Table 2 Advertising Annual Expenditure

Year Advertising Expenditure Companies 2015 €101,334 Carat Ireland, Iris Oifigiuil, KICK Communications,Media Vest Ireland 2014 €38,533 Iris Oifigiuil, Media Vest Ireland 2013 €46,881 Brindley, Iris Oifigiuil, Me- dia Vest Ireland 2012 €62,535 Brindley, Iris Oifigiuil Table 3 Public Relations Annual Expenditure

Year Amount € Companies 2016 €50,572 RPS Consulting Engineers Ltd (1) 2015 €47,355 DHR Communications (2) 2014 0 2013 0 2012 0 (1) contract for public consultation process to inform the Development of the National Drugs Strategy. This has been included here because it has a public relations dimension as it involves a range of public activities and events to publicise the consultation process to optimise public participation

(2) contract for Development of Strategy to support communication for the Healthy Ireland Framework and toolkit for Healthy Ireland Council

I will revert to the Deputy with information regarding advertising expenditure for 2016 and communications advice, website development, media interview training and preparation expen-

420 11 July 2017 diture for 2012-2016. In the meantime should the Deputy have any particular year, category or company from the tables provided that he wishes further information on please let me know and I will seek further detail.

I have referred the question to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy in relation to its expenditure. 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.

11/07/2017WRDD02600Health Services

11/07/2017WRDD02700454. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite an application for a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [32664/17]

11/07/2017WRDD02800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRDD02900Drug and Alcohol Task Forces

11/07/2017WRDD03000455. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health the implementation progress on each of the 15 recommendations included within the 2012 report on the review of drugs task forces and the national structures under which they operate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32666/17]

11/07/2017WRDD03100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): The National Coordinating Committee for Drug and Alcohol Task Forces is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the recommendations of the Report on the Review of Drugs Task Forces and the National Structures Under Which They Operate.I have set out the progress on each of the 15 recommendations in the following table:

- Recommendation Achieved 1 The Drugs Advisory Group Yes should be reconstituted as the National Co-ordinating Committee for Drug and Alcohol Task Forces (NCC- DATF). 2 The NCC-DATF should be Yes chaired by the Department of Health with membership to include two representatives from each of the four DTF Networks, and representatives from key Depart- ments and Agencies as well as the two community and voluntary sector representatives.

421 Questions - Written Answers - Recommendation Achieved 3 The roles and responsibili- Yes ties of members of the NCC- DATF should be clearly set out in guidelines for membership of the committee. 4 The NCC- DATF should Yes meet at least six times a year. 5 Drugs and Alcohol Task Yes Forces should have updated terms of reference as stated in the report. 6 The NCC-DATF should Yes develop a common evidence based assessment tool incorporating key performance indicators to measure the impact of the Drugs Task Forces, having regard to best practice internationally. 7 The representatives of the Yes respective networks representing the Local Co- ordinators and the Regional Co-ordinators should be responsible for briefing the NCC-DATF on local implementation of the NDS, on models of best practice, and lessons learned in relation to those initiatives which did not work or were found not to be effective. 8 Each DATF coordinator Yes should provide the Drugs Programmes Unit of the Department of Health with a quarterly report on progress which should address any significant operational issues in relation to funded projects including but not limited to financial control and governance issues and outline, where applicable, details of blockages or barriers to the work of the DATF.

422 11 July 2017 - Recommendation Achieved 9 The DATF coordinator Yes shall apply to the Drugs Programmes Unit for approval prior to any proposal to make a material change to the purpose of a funded project or to recruit staff to support the work of the DATF whether employed directly by the DATF or another body. 10 In the interests of good gov- Ongoing ernance, Drug and Alcohol Task Forces should comply with the provisions set out in the report. 11 Local members of the Ongoing Oireachtas and members of relevant Local Authorities should have automatic entitlement to become members of DATF and should be notified of this when elected, and given a specific time frame to take up their membership. An upper limit of 5 seats on the Task Force should be applied (2 for members of the Oireach- tas and 3 members of the local authority). These seats should be filled on an agreed rotational basis by the relevant local authorities and by local members of the Oireachtas. 12 The Minister of State with Yes responsibility for the Na- tional Drugs Strategy should meet with both the Chairs and Coordinators of the Lo- cal and Regional DATF Net- works at least once a year.

423 Questions - Written Answers - Recommendation Achieved 13 The membership of the Yes Oversight Forum on Drugs should include a representative of each of the Networks representing the Local and Regional Chairs of the DATFs. 14 The Oversight Forum on Yes Drugs should meet on a quarterly basis. 15 The Minister will consult No with Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces in relation to implementing proposed boundary changes. I will shortly be publishing a new National Drugs Strategy, which will outline the new structures required to oversee implementation of the Strategy into the future.

11/07/2017WRDD03200Health Services

11/07/2017WRDD03300456. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health the number of residential detox and rehabilitation beds available; his plans to implement the recommendations of the 2007 Health Service Executive report on residential treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32667/17]

11/07/2017WRDD03400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): As these are service matters, they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRDD03500Crisis Pregnancy Services

11/07/2017WRDD03600457. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health the progress which has been made in relation to the regulation of counsellors and psychotherapists; the steps he will take to tackle the continuing operation of crisis pregnancy agencies which provide false and mislead- ing information to women in crisis pregnancy situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32668/17]

11/07/2017WRDD03700Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I recently concluded a public consultation on my proposal to regulate counsellors generally under the Health and Social Care Profession- als Act 2005. Pregnancy counselling (other than that provided by doctors, nurses or social workers) will be taken into account in the context of this proposal.

On foot of the consultation process, I decided last month to proceed with the designation of two distinct professions under the Act, that of counsellor and psychotherapist. Each will have its own register under one registration board. This decision has now been communicated to the Health and Social Care Professionals Council, the relevant professional bodies and all the respondents to the public consultation process.

The Department is now preparing the necessary regulations to designate the professions. 424 11 July 2017 These regulations, when drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, will require the prior approval of this House and that of the Seanad. These will be the first in a suite of regulations that will need to be made over a period of time. It is hoped that the draft regulations will be ready for submission to the Oireachtas in the autumn.

In relation to crisis pregnancy counselling, a primary concern of government is the protection of the public when availing of health or social care services. A crisis pregnancy is perhaps one of the most stressful events in a woman’s life and therefore places her in a very vulnerable position. Positive Options, a crisis pregnancy service which is funded and overseen by the Health Service Executive, provides counselling in 50 locations nationwide and provides women with free, non-judgemental counselling.

I am aware, however, that some other bodies providing counselling may not adhere to the same standards. There have been media reports of such bodies providing information that is not truthful or objective and this is a cause of concern. The Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for Termination of Pregnancies) Act, 1995 defines the conditions under which information relating to abortion services lawfully available in another state might be made available in Ireland. That Act provides that where information is provided that would assist a woman in obtaining a termination abroad, that information must be truthful and objective and that a breach of this provision would be an offence. If an individual considers that information provided under the Act is not truthful and objective the matter may be referred to an Garda Síochána for investigation.

The Department of Health is reviewing this legislation to establish if its provisions need to be strengthened and legal advice has been received. One possibility would be to amend the 1995 Information Act, when counsellors are regulated under the 2005 Act, to prevent professionals who are not regulated by the State from providing crisis pregnancy counselling services.

11/07/2017WRDD03800Ambulance Service Staff

11/07/2017WRDD03900458. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Health if the ambulance service in County Kildare has a full complement of staff and no shifts are lost due to staffing issues. [32698/17]

11/07/2017WRDD04000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRDD04100General Practitioner Services Provision

11/07/2017WRDD04200459. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the status of progress towards the roll-out of free general practitioners care for those between the ages of six and 11; if he is still committed to this policy; the position regarding the money allocated for this initiative in budget 2016; the use to which the money allocated for in 2016 and 2017 was put; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32702/17]

11/07/2017WRDD04300460. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the cost of providing free GP care to all children between the ages of six and 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32703/17]

11/07/2017WRDD04400461. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of providing free GP care to all children between 12 and 17 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32704/17]

425 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRDD04500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 459 to 461, inclusive, together.

The Programme for Government commits to extend in phases, and subject to negotiation with GPs, free GP care to all children under 18 years of age. Legislative changes will be required for any such extension of free GP care to further cohorts of the population. The time- table will be subject to the outcome of discussions with GP representatives on this and other contractual matters currently being discussed.

The Revised Estimates for 2016 included additional funding for Primary Care initiatives including GP contract developments. Funding of €13.5 million was held back by my Depart- ment for specific initiatives under this heading. Of this, just over €7.7 million was spent in 2016 on the introduction of the new Rural Practice Support Framework for GPs, revision of the list of Special Items of Services that can be provided by GPs to GMS patients and initiatives to enhance GP access to diagnostics. The balance of these held back monies was released to the HSE and used to fund deficits in various service areas on a once-off basis. This funding is however available in 2017.

The cost of GP visit and medical cards varies significantly with the age of the cardholder. The following table outlines the current indicative annual cost for medical card eligibility and GP visit card eligibility, by age group.

Indicative Annual Cost per Card Age Group GP Visit Card Medical Card 0 - 4 Yrs €243 €392 5 – 15 Yrs €163 €214 16 – 44 Yrs €149 €595 45 – 64 Yrs €221 €1,217 65 – 69 Yrs €250 €1,602 Aged 70 and over €500 €2,092 Note: Data is compiled by the HSE Primary Care Reimbursement Service, based on available information for the 6 month period to February 2017 and by extrapolation to full year costs.

The extension of free GP care to all children aged over 6 and under 18 years, not currently covered by medical or GP visit card, would encompass approximately a further 451,000 people. The estimated cost of extending free GP care to specific cohorts of the population will vary depending on the outcome of the current GP contract negotiations and any implications they may have for the future scope and content of the general practitioner service, and the relevant fees and payments to GPs. As with any negotiation-type process, and given the range and complexity of the issues to be discussed, the engagement may take some time.

11/07/2017WREE00300Vaccination Programme Data

11/07/2017WREE00400462. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the number of children that received the meningococcal B vaccine for free in 2016 and to date in 2017 respectively; the cost to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32705/17]

11/07/2017WREE00500463. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the cost to the State of administering the meningococcal B vaccine; the amount the State pays for each vaccine to the producer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32706/17] 426 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WREE00600464. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the number of children under 12 years of age and under five years of age respectively that have not received the meningococcal B vaccine. [32707/17]

11/07/2017WREE00700465. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the cost of providing the meningococcal B vaccine to every child here under 12 years of age and under five years of age respectively. [32708/17]

11/07/2017WREE00800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 462 to 465, inclusive, together.

The HSE Service Plan included additional funding of €2.5 million for the expansion of the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule in 2016. Two changes to the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule were introduced on 1st December 2016 with the introduction of Menin- gococcal B (Men B) and Rotavirus for all babies born on or after 1st October, 2016. All vaccines administered through the Primary Childhood Immunisation Schedule are provided free of charge. The Men B immunisation programme makes Ireland the second country in Europe to make the vaccine available free of charge as part of its national immunisation programme.

The introduction of the vaccine to the childhood immunisation programmes means that all children born on or after 1 October 2016, will automatically receive the vaccine. However, there are no plans to introduce a catch-up programme for older children. No recommendation has been made concerning extension of the programme to other age groups.

As these questions relate to service matters, I have referred them to the Health Service Ex- ecutive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WREE01200Primary Care Centres Data

11/07/2017WREE01300466. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the number of primary care centres that have been built or opened each year since 2011; the locations of each; the capital and current expenditure associated with each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32709/17]

11/07/2017WREE01400Minister 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.

11/07/2017WREE01500Primary Care Centres Provision

11/07/2017WREE01600467. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health his plans for primary care centres; the areas in the country that have and have not primary care centres, respectively; the centres planned for opening in 2017; the centres opened to date in 2017, the centres planned for 2018, and those for which no opening date is known; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32710/17]

11/07/2017WREE01700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WREE01800Prescriptions Charges

427 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WREE01900468. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the estimated cost of reducing the prescription charge to €1 with a monthly cap of €10; his future plans for this charge and the cap; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32711/17]

11/07/2017WREE02000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

This Government is commitment to reducing the cost of medicines for patients. The prescription charge for medical card holders aged 70 and over was reduced earlier in 2017. I will continue to examine opportunities to address the cost of the prescription charge to patients, having regard to the funding available for health services.

11/07/2017WREE02100Home Care Packages

11/07/2017WREE02200469. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the funding required to address every case in which a need for a home care package has been identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32712/17]

11/07/2017WREE02300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WREE02400Services for People with Disabilities

11/07/2017WREE02500470. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the cost of fully staffing early intervention teams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32713/17]

11/07/2017WREE02600Minister 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.

11/07/2017WREE02700Medicinal Products Data

11/07/2017WREE02800471. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the number of new drugs approved for use here in 2016 and to date 2017 respectively; the number of these that qualify as high tech drugs; the detail of the recommendation of the NCPE for each; the annual cost of provision for each; the unit cost of each drug; the company supplying it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32714/17]

11/07/2017WREE02900Minister 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;

428 11 July 2017 therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WREE03000Medicinal Products Expenditure

11/07/2017WREE03100472. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the amount spent on drugs by the HSE in 2016 and to date in 2017; the savings which have been made in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32715/17]

11/07/2017WREE03200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WREE03300Treatment Abroad Scheme

11/07/2017WREE03400473. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the cost of the treatment abroad scheme in 2016 and to date 2017; the projected full-year cost; the number of persons treated; the age breakdown of those treated; the treatment time, location and travel costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32716/17]

11/07/2017WREE03500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE operates the Treatment Abroad Scheme, for persons entitled to treatment in another EU/EEA Member State or Switzerland under EU Regulation 883/04, as per the procedures set out in EU Regulation 987/09, and in accordance with Department of Health Guidelines.

The HSE hold and record statistics on the Treatment Abroad Scheme and I have asked them to reply to the Deputy directly.

11/07/2017WREE03600Hospitals Capital Programme

11/07/2017WREE03700474. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Health the status of the proposed refurbishment of Youghal community hospital under the residential care centres capital plan 2016 to 2021; and the amount of the €2.67 million proposed that has been allocated and drawn down. [32718/17]

11/07/2017WREE03800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Capital Programme announced in Janu- ary 2016 provides for the replacement and refurbishment of 90 public nursing homes across the country over the next five years including Youghal Community Hospital. Under this Pro- gramme it is proposed to deliver 38 beds by refurbishing and extending the existing community nursing home by 2020. This will replace existing beds where the physical environment requires substantial improvement.

Significant work has been undertaken by the HSE in determining the most appropriate scheduling of projects over the multi-annual period from 2016 to 2021, within the phased provision of funding, to achieve compliance and registration with HIQA. All healthcare infrastructure developments, including this development, must comply with DPER guidelines and EU directives and will require a lead-in time to complete the various stages. These stages include appraisal, project brief, design feasibility, detailed design, some of which may overlap, the review of costing estimates and finalisation of financing.

429 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WREE03900Hospitals Building Programme

11/07/2017WREE04000475. Deputy Pat Buckley asked the Minister for Health the status of the proposed construction of Midleton community hospital and long-stay unit under the residential care centres capital plan 2016 to 2021; and the amount of the €10.3 million proposed that has been allocated and drawn down. [32719/17]

11/07/2017WREE04100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The Capital Programme announced in Janu- ary 2016 provides for the replacement and refurbishment of 90 public nursing homes across the country over the next five years including Midleton Community Hospital. Under this Pro- gramme it is proposed to deliver a new build 50 bed community nursing home by 2021. This will replace existing beds where the physical environment requires substantial improvement.

11/07/2017WRFF00200Nursing Home Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRFF00300476. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health if a person (details supplied) can be given a bed in a nursing home which would allow them to be discharged from St. James’s Hospital. [32729/17]

11/07/2017WRFF00400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRFF00500Health Services Provision

11/07/2017WRFF00600477. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) will receive occupational therapy and physiotherapy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32730/17]

11/07/2017WRFF00700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRFF00800Disabilities Assessments

11/07/2017WRFF00900478. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) has been waiting for an assessment of needs for such a long period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32731/17]

11/07/2017WRFF01000Minister 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 430 11 July 2017 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.

11/07/2017WRFF01100Nursing Staff

11/07/2017WRFF01200479. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Health if a person admitted to the part of the role for general nurse maintained by the General Nursing Council for England and Wales is eligible to work as a nursing assistant in hospitals here; if he will request the HSE to outline the Irish equivalent qualification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32734/17]

11/07/2017WRFF01300Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

11/07/2017WRFF01400HSE Properties

11/07/2017WRFF01500480. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health the reason a site (details supplied) owned by the HSE is on the Dublin City Council register of vacant sites during a housing crisis; his plans for the site; and when it will be put back into use. [32742/17]

11/07/2017WRFF01600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Your question has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply as the management of the healthcare property estate is a service matter.

11/07/2017WRFF01700Hospital Appointments Delays

11/07/2017WRFF01800481. Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health if he will address issues regarding a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32748/17]

11/07/2017WRFF01900Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRFF02000Medical Card Administration

11/07/2017WRFF02100482. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health the number of persons with medical cards that have received refunds after originally being wrongly charged for blood tests by their general practitioners in each of the years 2010 to 2016 and to date in 2017, by county; 431 Questions - Written Answers and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32755/17]

11/07/2017WRFF02200Minister 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 for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRFF02300Health Strategies

11/07/2017WRFF02400483. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1492 of 20 June 2017, the status of the performance of the national clinical programme for acute coronary syndrome in respect of standardising heart attack care; the way in which it is monitored; the details of increased or decreased performance in relevant areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32756/17]

11/07/2017WRFF02500484. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1492 of 20 June 2017, if he will report on the review being conducted by the acute coronary syndrome programme working group of all interventional cardiology activity; the timeframe for this review to be completed and published; the implementation or action plan that will be undertaken following the completion of the review and its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32757/17]

11/07/2017WRFF02600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 483 and 484 together.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRFF02800Health Strategies

11/07/2017WRFF02900485. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1501 of 20 June 2017, when the protocol for persons with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32758/17]

11/07/2017WRFF03000486. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1501 of 20 June 2017, if he will report on discussions taking place between the HSE and the RCPI on cardiology service development; if a report or outcome is expected on this; if so, the timeframe for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32759/17]

11/07/2017WRFF03100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 485 and 486 together.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRFF03300Health Strategies

11/07/2017WRFF03400487. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1514 of 20 June 2017, the reason no register of sudden cardiac deaths has been developed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32760/17]

11/07/2017WRFF03500488. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1514 of 20 June 2017, if he will report on the work of the out-of-hospital cardiac arrest 432 11 July 2017 strategy steering group; the timeframe for this group to report on or make recommendations on improvements in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest response and outcomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32761/17]

11/07/2017WRFF03600Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 487 and 488 together.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRFF03800Health Strategies

11/07/2017WRFF03900489. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tions Nos. 190 of 21 June 2017 and 1500 of 20 June 2017, when the NCP HF plans to review the model of care and develop an adapted version of the NCP HF; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32762/17]

11/07/2017WRFF04000Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRFF04100Stroke Care

11/07/2017WRFF04200490. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tions Nos. 1512 and 1531 of 20 June 2017, his plans for the provision for data analysis or data quality control which may impact on future audit of stroke services; the way in which the national stroke programme is working with the acute hospital division to implement an annual national stroke audit; the problems that exist with developing this comprehensive audit; the measures required to overcome this; the improvement strategies being pursued to ensure all hospitals are entering data on all acute stroke patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32763/17]

11/07/2017WRFF04300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRGG00200Health Strategies

11/07/2017WRGG00300491. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1534 of 20 June 2017, if there are plans to conduct audits of cardiovascular networks aside from stroke; the reason there has been no other cardiovascular-related audits over the lifetime of the national cardiovascular health policy to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32764/17]

11/07/2017WRGG00400Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRGG00500Health Strategies

11/07/2017WRGG00600492. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1523 of 20 June 2017, the date on which the collaboration taking place between the 433 Questions - Written Answers national stroke programme, the acute medicine programme and the national clinical programme for older persons to develop a transient ischaemic pathway to support early decision-making; the expected outcomes and timeframe for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32765/17]

11/07/2017WRGG00700493. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1523 of 20 June 2017, the date on which the comprehensive document to support the psychological needs of patients will be ready; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32766/17]

11/07/2017WRGG00800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 492 and 493 together.

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRGG01000Treatment Abroad Scheme

11/07/2017WRGG01100494. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health when a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be approved for treatment under the treatment abroad scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32774/17]

11/07/2017WRGG01200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE operates the Treatment Abroad Scheme for persons entitled to treatment in another EU/EEA Member State or Switzerland under EU Regulation (EC) No. 883/2004, as per the procedures set out in EU Regulations (EC) No. 987/2009, and in accordance with Department of Health Guidelines.

The Health Service Executive has been asked to examine this matter and to reply to the Deputy as soon as possible.

11/07/2017WRGG01300Services for People with Disabilities

11/07/2017WRGG01400495. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Health if additional funding will be provided to a residential service (details supplied) in County Kerry for persons with disabilities. [32777/17]

11/07/2017WRGG01500Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRGG01600Care Services Provision

11/07/2017WRGG01700496. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Health the funding which has been al-

434 11 July 2017 located to upgrade and extend the day care centre at Drogheda Street, Monasterevin; and the timescale for the work to be carried out. [32779/17]

11/07/2017WRGG01800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRGG01900Hospitals Capital Programme

11/07/2017WRGG02000497. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Health his plans for capital investment to renovate and extend Abbeyleix hospital; and the likely timeframe to this action. [32780/17]

11/07/2017WRGG02100Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRGG02200HSE Properties

11/07/2017WRGG02300498. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Health the number of residential properties owned by the HSE in County Laois; and the number of those that are vacant. [32781/17]

11/07/2017WRGG02400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Your question has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply as the management of the healthcare property estate is a service matter.

11/07/2017WRGG02500Maternity Services

11/07/2017WRGG02600499. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the way in which he plans to adhere to the baby friendly health initiative. [32786/17]

11/07/2017WRGG02700500. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the body which ensures that the maternity hospitals achieve the baby friendly health initiative. [32787/17]

11/07/2017WRGG02800504. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the national policy for baby friendly hospitals for all maternity hospitals if the baby friendly hospital initiative is not included in the breastfeeding action plan. [32791/17]

11/07/2017WRGG02900505. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the reason fewer hospitals are participating in baby friendly health initiative accreditation. [32792/17]

11/07/2017WRGG03000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 499, 500, 504 and 505 together.

The Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) was launched by WHO and UNICEF in 1991 and is a global effort to implement practices that protect, promote and support breastfeeding. In Ireland the initiative has been in place for 20 years and there are 19 maternity hospitals countrywide, 9 of which have Baby Friendly designation.

In 2016, the HSE, who fund the initiative, commissioned a research team at TCD to undertake a review of the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative in 2016. The review highlighted the need for a revised model to be developed in line with the Maternity Strategy and action point 3.2 in the HSE National Breastfeeding Action Plan 2016-2020.

435 Questions - Written Answers Working with the Health and Wellbeing directorate (health promotion and improvement, public health), the National Women and Infant Health Programme will support the implementation of the WHO/UNICEF 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, the basis of the Baby Friendly Hospitals Initiative, using a revised model suitable for the promotion and support of breastfeeding in Ireland. This approach will also examine the option of an all-island approach.

11/07/2017WRGG03200Maternity Services

11/07/2017WRGG03300501. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the way the HSE plans to fund an accreditation unit for the baby friendly health initiative. [32788/17]

11/07/2017WRGG03400502. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the reason Galway national maternity hospital, Mullingar maternity hospital and Portlaoise maternity hospital have lost their baby friendly health initiative certification. [32789/17]

11/07/2017WRGG03500503. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Health the communication the HSE has had with the baby friendly hospital initiative; and the role the HSE plans to play in the implementation of the baby friendly hospital initiative in the 2016-21 breastfeeding action plan. [32790/17]

11/07/2017WRGG03600Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Catherine Byrne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 501 to 503, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy’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.

Questions Nos. 504 and 505 answered with Question No. 499.

11/07/2017WRHH00200Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRHH00300506. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) has not been given a definitive date for surgery; the reason they have not received a date for surgery in view of the urgency of the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32797/17]

11/07/2017WRHH00400Minister 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.

Question No. 507 answered with Question No. 424.

11/07/2017WRHH00600Mental Health Services Funding

436 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRHH00700508. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health the detail of the agreed allocation of the €15 million in development funding for mental health in 2017; the additional or new services being provided in 2017; the funding provided to each, by CHO, in tabular form; and the additional posts being provided in each. [32825/17]

11/07/2017WRHH00800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRHH00900Health Services Staff Recruitment

11/07/2017WRHH01000509. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health when the recently approved assistant psychologist posts, 114 in total for primary care teams across Ireland, will be advertised by the HSE; the date for this advertisement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32826/17]

11/07/2017WRHH01100Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRHH01200Mental Health Services Expenditure

11/07/2017WRHH01300510. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health the mental health development budget for 2016 spend by CHO area and type of service, that is child and adolescent, general adult and old age psychiatry; and the amount within that budget which was spent on inpatient, day, residential and other services for children, adults and older persons broken down by CHO area, in tabular form. [32827/17]

11/07/2017WRHH01400Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRHH01500Mental Health Policy

11/07/2017WRHH01600511. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Health when the external evidence and expert review which was commissioned to a company (details supplied) as the first step in determining the parameters of a revision of A Vision for Change will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32828/17]

11/07/2017WRHH01700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): ‘A Vision for Change’ has guided national mental health policy for the past 10 years and its term came to an end in 2016. The first stage of the review involved an expert evidence review and analysis of national and international best practice in the development and delivery of mental health services. The Department of Health awarded a contract for this review in November 2016. The evidence review has identified sites of best practice, outlining how these models can apply to the Irish context. The review also assessed the current delivery of Mental Health Services in Ireland having regard to the international evidence and the implementation of ‘A Vision for Change’.

This first stage evidence review was completed in late February 2017. It will now inform the parameters of a broader review of ‘A Vision for Change’, through the establishment of an Oversight Committee which will oversee the development of a new policy for mental health based on the outcome of the Expert Review. It is envisioned that the appointment for the Chair 437 Questions - Written Answers of the Oversight Committee will shortly be confirmed, at which point the evidence review will be published.

11/07/2017WRHH01800Health Services Staff Data

11/07/2017WRHH01900512. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of qualified, registered counsellors employed by the HSE in each CHO area in each of the years from 2015 to date in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32830/17]

11/07/2017WRHH02000513. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the number of qualified, registered counsellors currently employed by the HSE in each CHO area; the number on full time, part time and other contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32831/17]

11/07/2017WRHH02100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I propose to take Questions Nos. 512 and 513 together.

I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

11/07/2017WRHH02300Health and Social Care Professionals Regulation

11/07/2017WRHH02400514. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the regulation of counsellors and psychotherapists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32832/17]

11/07/2017WRHH02500Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I recently concluded a public consultation on my proposal to regulate counsellors generally under the Health and Social Care Profession- als Act 2005. On foot of the consultation process, I decided last month to proceed with the designation of two distinct professions under the Act, that of counsellor and psychotherapist. Each will have its own register under one registration board. This decision has now been communicated to the Health and Social Care Professionals Council, the relevant professional bodies and all the respondents to the public consultation process.

The Department is now preparing the necessary regulations to designate the professions. These regulations, when drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, will require the prior approval of this House and that of the Seanad. These will be the first in a suite of regulations that will need to be made over a period of time. It is hoped that the draft regulations will be ready for submission to the Oireachtas in the autumn.

11/07/2017WRHH02600Drugs Payment Scheme Threshold

11/07/2017WRHH02700515. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the first year and full-year cost of reducing the drug payment scheme threshold from €144 to €130, €120, €110 and €100, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32912/17]

11/07/2017WRHH02800Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): Under the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013, the HSE has statutory responsibility for the administration of the community drug schemes; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

438 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRHH02900Health Services Staff

11/07/2017WRHH03000516. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the first and full-year cost of recruiting an additional 100 consultants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32913/17]

11/07/2017WRHH03100Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

11/07/2017WRHH03200Health Services Staff

11/07/2017WRHH03300517. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the first and full-year cost of recruiting an additional 1,000 nurses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32914/17]

11/07/2017WRHH03400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter.

11/07/2017WRHH03500Counselling Services Provision

11/07/2017WRHH03600518. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Health his views on the threatened discontinuation of the youth counselling services being provided by an organisation (details supplied) due to a lack of funding from the HSE; the steps he is taking to ensure that the service is continued and expanded to cover areas of Galway city and county in which there is a demand for these services. [32919/17]

11/07/2017WRHH03700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRHH03800Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRHH03900519. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Health the status of an appointment for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32921/17]

11/07/2017WRHH04000Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRHH04100Services for People with Disabilities

11/07/2017WRHH04200520. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of children awaiting a first assessment from the HSE under the Disability Act 2005 at the end of June 2017 or latest day available for each local health office, in tabular form. [32922/17] 439 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRHH04300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ00200Speech and Language Therapy Provision

11/07/2017WRJJ00300521. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on the speech and language therapy assessment waiting list; the numbers waiting less than four months; the number waiting four to 12 months; and the number waiting more than 12 months for each local health area in tabular form. [32923/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ00400Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ00500Speech and Language Therapy Provision

11/07/2017WRJJ00600522. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on the speech and language therapy treatment waiting list; the numbers waiting less than four months; the number waiting four to 12 months; and the number waiting more than 12 months for each local health area, in tabular form. [32924/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ00700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ00800Occupational Therapy

11/07/2017WRJJ00900523. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of persons currently on the occupational therapy first-time assessment waiting list; the numbers waiting less than four months, the number waiting four to 12 months; and the number waiting more than 12 months; and the numbers waiting for each category aged 0 to 4, 5 to 17, 18-64 and 65 years of age plus, respectively for each local health area, in tabular form. [32925/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ01000Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ01100Occupational Therapy

11/07/2017WRJJ01200524. Deputy Margaret Murphy O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the number of

440 11 July 2017 persons on the occupational therapy treatment waiting list; the numbers waiting less than four months, the number waiting four to 12 months; and the number waiting more than 12 months; and the numbers for each category waiting aged 0 to 4, 5 to 17, 18-64 and 65 years of age plus, for each local health area, in tabular form. [32926/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ01300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ01400Home Help Service Data

11/07/2017WRJJ01500525. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the number of home help hours provided in each local health office area, for each month to date in 2017; if he will provide same for each month and each local health office; and the way in which it compares against the target, in tabular form. [32929/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ01600Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRJJ01700Preschool Services

11/07/2017WRJJ01800526. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Ques- tion No. 1292 of 20 June 2017, if additional support can be provided for a person (details supplied); and if he will advise if alternative solutions are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32931/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ01900Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ02000Nursing Homes Support Scheme Review

11/07/2017WRJJ02100527. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the progress made in implementing the recommendations of the review of the nursing home support scheme, a fair deal, in tabular form. [32961/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ02200Minister 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.

441 Questions - Written Answers 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 implementation of administrative reforms to the Scheme (Chapter Four of NHSS Review);

- A review by the NTPF of present pricing arrangements in private residential facilities.

This work is currently underway.

The following is the position in relation to administrative reform recommendations contained in Chapter four of the Review, as of 30th June 2017.

No Recommendation Position – June 2017 1 Centralise certain elements Following consideration, of the scheme where appro- this recommendation is not priate, with built in appropri- being progressed at this time ate management and training as agreed with the NHSS processes to ensure customer Inter Departmental Work- service is maintained ing Group. The elements of the Scheme relating to this recommendation are functioning well. 2 Consolidate local NHSOs Work in Progress (from 17 to 4) 3 Develop a web based form Work in Progress to enable nursing homes to submit invoices electroni- cally 4 Centralise the processing of Following consideration, invoices this recommendation is not being progressed at this time as agreed with the NHSS Inter Departmental Work- ing Group. The elements of the Scheme relating to this recommendation are functioning well.

442 11 July 2017 No Recommendation Position – June 2017 5 Centralise the calculation of Following consideration, loan repayments this recommendation is not being progressed at this time as agreed with the NHSS Inter Departmental Work- ing Group. The elements of the Scheme relating to this recommendation are functioning well. 6 Clarify for how long the Implemented application form/documentation and the CSAR form remain valid without any new processes or medical checks 7 Provide additional infor- Following consideration, mation regarding nursing this recommendation is not homes to assist with the being progressed at this time process of identifying one as agreed with the NHSS that is suitable Inter Departmental Working Group 8 Review documents and ap- Implemented plication forms with advice from the National Adult Lit- eracy Agency to ensure they are sufficiently user-friendly and informative and that they include clear guidance on where relevant information/documentation can be obtained 9 Consider whether any ad- Implemented ditional questions should be included in the application form 10 Make sample completed ap- Implemented plication forms available 11 Include in the application Implemented form a mechanism for an applicant to authorise a representative to submit the application on their behalf 12 Consider the need to estab- Implemented lish an NHSS Best Practice Group (consisting of NHSO/ national office staff) to share experiences and agree on best practice

443 Questions - Written Answers No Recommendation Position – June 2017 13 Consider splitting applica- Following consideration, tion form into two parts this recommendation is not to avoid delaying the care being progressed at this time needs assessment while as agreed with the NHSS financial information and Inter Departmental Work- documentation is being as- ing Group. The assessment sembled process works well and delays do not usually arise in this part of the application process. 14 Standardise informal ad- Implemented vice provided to applicants regarding the nursing home loan, including clarity re legal aspects 15 Provide advice regarding the Implemented possibility of claiming tax relief for medical expenses/ nursing home fees 16 Review current letter tem- Work in Progress plates and, where possible, replace with alternative, quicker forms of communication 17 Review content of corre- Work in Progress spondence to ensure it is as clear as possible 18 Examine the possibility of Following consideration, scanning/electronic trans- this recommendation is not mission of forms and docu- being progressed at this time mentation from NHSOs to as agreed with the NHSS the national office Inter Departmental Working Group 19 Clarify that the involvement Implemented of a solicitor is not required in order to apply for the loan 20 Consider making it a condi- Implemented tion of availing of the loan that the required details, including the PPSN of the responsible person are provided 21 Complete analysis of home Implemented ownership levels

444 11 July 2017 No Recommendation Position – June 2017 22 Establish what databases Work in Progress exist that may contain useful data for the financial assessment and establish the access by NHSOs to these, including standard operating procedures, requiring review, of such information sources 23 Develop a consistently Implemented applied standard operating procedure for the initial financial assessment based on available resources of information 24 Introduce a policy of under- Work in Progress taking random spot checks of financial data 25 Follow up with the Revenue Work in Progress Commissioners on the scope for improved validation of declarations of income/assets 26 Consider the options to en- Work in Progress courage realistic valuations of declared property assets 27 Standardise procedures in Implemented relation to reviews across NHSOs and ensure that all available information is utilised and accessed 28 Consider amending legisla- Changes to the Scheme tion to provide for fluctu- which require legislative ating values of assets and implementation will be ad- incomes dressed collectively once all relevant Review recommendations have been considered. 29 Continue to operate the Implemented national placement list in chronological order 30 Increase time for recovery of Changes to the Scheme loan to 18 months which require legislative implementation will be addressed collectively once all relevant Review recommendations have been considered.

445 Questions - Written Answers No Recommendation Position – June 2017 31 Amend definition of ordinar- Work in Progress ily resident to ‘those who have been living in Ireland for at least a year’ 32 Consideration should be giv- The 2015 NHSS Review en to whether a cap should recommended examination be applied to the charge for of the position of family nursing home care based farms and businesses. Sub- on non-residential pro- sequently a commitment was ductive assets which are included in the Programme passed on to a direct family for a Partnership Govern- member after, or in the five ment to deal with this issue. years prior to, the death of This examination is ongoing an NHSS participant, and and at an advanced stage. where the new owner carries It is important to remember on the farm or other business that the NHSS is largely as their principal livelihood underpinned by primary legislation, and as such any changes to the Scheme will require legislative implementation. I have committed to prioritising and fast tracking this examination of family farms and businesses and bringing forward changes to the legislation to deal with the uncertainty that is being felt by farming and business families in line with the Programme for a Partnership Government. The Review of the NHSS also recommended a review of pricing mechanisms by the NTPF, with a view to:

- Ensuring value for money and economy, with the lowest possible administrative costs for clients and the State and administrative burden for providers;

- Increasing the transparency of the pricing mechanism so that existing and potential investors can make as informed decisions as possible; and

- Ensuring that there is adequate residential capacity for those residents with more complex needs.

A Steering Committee has been established to oversee the review of the pricing system for private long-term residential care facilities. This Steering Committee is chaired by the NTPF and includes representatives from the Department of Health, the Department of Public Expen- diture and Reform, and the NTPF, and work in this area is ongoing and well advanced.

A Value For Money and Policy Review of the differences in the comparative cost of public and private long-term residential care is expected to commence in 2017 to assess reasons for and components of current cost differentials.

446 11 July 2017 An initial report on the progress of the NHSS Review recommendations was submitted to the Cabinet Committee on Health in September 2016.

11/07/2017WRJJ02300Nursing Homes Support Scheme

11/07/2017WRJJ02400528. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the estimated full-year cost of amending the fees charged under the nursing homes support scheme, NHSS, to enable nursing home residents with an assessed weekly income of €300 or less to retain a minimum of €60 weekly. [32962/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRJJ02600Nursing Homes Support Scheme

11/07/2017WRJJ02700529. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Health his views on the findings and recommendations of a briefing paper (details supplied) on regulating nursing home charges. [32963/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ02800Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): The Nursing Homes Support Scheme (NHSS), commonly referred to as A Fair Deal, is a system of financial support for people who require long-term residential care. Participants contribute to the cost of their care according to their means while the State pays the balance of the cost.

The NHSS covers the cost of the standard components of long-term residential care which are:

- Nursing and personal care appropriate to the level of care needs of the person;

- Bed and board;

- Basic aids and appliances necessary to assist a person with the activities of daily living; and

- Laundry service.

Although the NHSS covers core living expenses, residents can still incur some costs in a nursing home, such as social programmes, newspapers or hairdressing. In recognition of this, anyone in receipt of financial support under the NHSS retains at least 20% of their income. The minimum amount that is retained is the equivalent of 20% of the State Pension (Non-Contribu- tory). An operator should not seek payment from residents for items which are covered by the NHSS, the medical card or any other existing scheme.

Part 7 of the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for

447 Questions - Written Answers Older People) Regulations 2013 stipulates that the registered provider of the nursing home must agree a contract in writing with each resident on their admission to the nursing home. This contract must include details of the services to be provided to that resident and the fees to be charged. Residents should never be charged fees which are not set out in the contract. The De- partment of Health and the HSE are not a party to such contracts which are concluded between each resident and the private or voluntary nursing home.

I welcome the briefing paper prepared by Age Action which highlights this issue. I have recently met with both Age Action and Nursing Homes Ireland to discuss this issue in detail. In order to improve the transparency of these additional charges, I outlined that a schedule of charges should be provided to potential residents on enquiry to an individual nursing home, rather than at the point of admission. Nursing Homes Ireland undertook to advise their members to do so. I will also be meeting with both the National Treatment Purchase Fund and HIQA over the coming weeks to discuss this matter further.

11/07/2017WRJJ02900Hospital Appointments Delays

11/07/2017WRJJ03000530. Deputy Louise O’Reilly asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) has not been given a date for surgery and is facing severe waiting times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33000/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ03100Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ03200Health Screening Programmes

448 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRJJ03300531. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Minister for Health the reason a free breast check and smear test service is not available to women under 50 years of age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33046/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ03400Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): The HSE’s National Screening Service provides evidence based screening programmes for breast, cervical and bowel cancer. These services operate in line with screening protocols internationally which are underpinned by Na- tional Guidelines for Quality Assurance and further supported by European policy guidelines.

CervicalCheck provides free smear tests to women between the ages of 25 and 60. Since its introduction, CervicalCheck has detected 1,082 invasive cervical cancers, 41,417 high-grade abnormalities and 29,508 low-grade abnormalities.

To date, BreastCheck has detected over 8,500 cancers. Until recently, BreastCheck offered free mammograms every two years to all women aged 50-64 years. The roll out of BreastCheck to women aged 65-69 began in late 2015.

International evidence does not support the introduction of population based breast screening below the age of 50. BreastCheck emphasise that anyone under the age of 50 who has any concerns about their breast health should contact their GP immediately, who can refer them to a symptomatic breast disease clinic.

11/07/2017WRJJ03500Hospital Appointments Status

11/07/2017WRJJ03600532. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Health if he will expedite the treatment of a person (details supplied); the consultant this person has been referred to at the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33060/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ03700Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ03800General Practitioner Services Provision

11/07/2017WRJJ03900533. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a three-day general practitioner service (details supplied) in Rathmore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33061/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ04000Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): As this question relates to a service matter, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRJJ04100Physiotherapy Provision

11/07/2017WRJJ04200534. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list for physiotherapy in primary care by CHO, age category and time waiting. [33064/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ04300Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRJJ04400Occupational Therapy 449 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRJJ04500535. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list for occupational therapy by CHO, age category and time waiting. [33065/17]

11/07/2017WRJJ04600Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRKK00200Speech and Language Therapy

11/07/2017WRKK00300536. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list for speech and language therapy by CHO, age category and time waiting. [33066/17]

11/07/2017WRKK00400Minister 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.

11/07/2017WRKK00500Health Services Data

11/07/2017WRKK00600537. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list for cognitive behavioural therapy by CHO, age category and time waiting. [33067/17]

11/07/2017WRKK00700Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRKK00800Mental Health Services Data

11/07/2017WRKK00900538. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list for CAMHS by CHO, age category and time waiting. [33068/17]

11/07/2017WRKK01000Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRKK01100Mental Health Services Data

11/07/2017WRKK01200539. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the number of persons on a waiting list for counselling services by CHO, age category and time waiting. [33069/17]

11/07/2017WRKK01300Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service issue, this question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRKK01400Mental Health Services Data

11/07/2017WRKK01500540. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Health the status of an appointment for dental surgery for a person (details supplied) in the Mater hospital. [33074/17]

11/07/2017WRKK01600Minister 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 450 11 July 2017 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.

11/07/2017WRKK01700Hospital Beds Data

11/07/2017WRKK01800541. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the number of inpatient beds in each of the three children’s hospitals, namely Crumlin, Temple Street and Tallaght, respectively. [33077/17]

11/07/2017WRKK01900Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): In relation to the query raised by the Deputy, as this is a service issue, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRKK02000Hospital Closures

11/07/2017WRKK02100542. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Health his plans to close the children’s facilities at Crumlin, Temple Street and Tallaght as inpatient paediatric hospitals once the new national children’s hospital is fully operational. [33078/17]

11/07/2017WRKK02200Minister for Health (Deputy Simon Harris): On completion of the new children’s hospital new facilities, services will move from the existing locations into the new hospital and Pae- diatric OPD and Urgent Care Centres. The transition of services to the new children’s hospital is scheduled to commence in Q3 2021 with transition of services to the paediatric OPD and urgent care centres commencing end 2018 (Connolly Q4 2018, Tallaght Q1 2019). Accordingly, paediatric services will no longer be provided at the Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital Crumlin and Temple Street Children’s University Hospital facilities. At Tallaght, the existing paediatric facilities will be used for adult services. The future paediatric services at Tallaght Hospital will be in the new paediatric outpatients and urgent care centre on the Tallaght hospital campus.

11/07/2017WRKK02300Home Care Packages Data

11/07/2017WRKK02400543. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health the number of applications submitted for home care packages in 2016 and to date in 2017; the number of these applications which were approved and refused; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33091/17]

11/07/2017WRKK02500Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Jim Daly): As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

11/07/2017WRKK02600Medical Card Administration

11/07/2017WRKK02700544. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health his plans to provide for the backdating of medical cards to the date on which the application was submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33092/17]

451 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRKK02800Minister 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.

As this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRKK02900Hospital Waiting Lists

11/07/2017WRKK03000545. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Health his plans to address the extremely long waiting lists in counties Cork and Kerry for cataract operations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33093/17]

11/07/2017WRKK03100Minister 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.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly.

11/07/2017WRKK03200Respite Care Services Provision

11/07/2017WRKK03300546. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health his plans to enhance respite services in Mullingar. [33097/17]

11/07/2017WRKK03400Minister 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. The Health Service Executive’s (HSE’s) Social Care Operational Plan for 2017 aims to provide 182,000 overnight stays in centre-based respite services, in addition to 41,000 day respite sessions. There are 210 new home support/in home respite supports for emergency cases and 185 new emergency residential placements in the 2017 HSE National Service Plan.

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. 452 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRKK03500Sheep Welfare Scheme Expenditure

11/07/2017WRKK03600547. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the amount spent on the sheep welfare scheme; if there has been underexpenditure on this scheme; and if he has considered a top-up payment to successful applications. [32083/17]

11/07/2017WRKK03700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Last Decem- ber the Sheep Welfare Scheme was launched under the Programme for Government in which there was a commitment to introduce a scheme for sheep farmers under the Rural Development Programme with a budget of some €25 million in 2017. The scheme provides support of €10 per ewe to farmers who undertake actions which make positive contributions to flock welfare.

The scheme represents a clear acknowledgement of the contribution the sheepmeat sector makes to the Irish Agri-Food industry, which in 2016 saw an increase in exports of sheepmeat of 3% in volume and 4% in value terms to €240 million. This scheme will make a vital contribution to ensuring the continuing viability and sustainability of the sheep sector in Ireland. There are also a variety of existing supports available to sheep farmers under the BPS, GLAS, TAMS, Knowledge Transfer and ANC schemes.

Payments have not yet commenced, but are scheduled to do so this autumn. Any underspend will not be fully quantified until all payments to applicants for their actions in the first year of the scheme have been completed. The details of this scheme, including the actions to be carried out by applicants and the amount of payment to participants, were approved by the European Commission after much negotiation in 2016. It is not possible under the terms of the scheme to issue top up payments to successful applicants.

11/07/2017WRKK03800TAMS Payments

11/07/2017WRKK03900548. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of a TAMS 2 payment for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32109/17]

11/07/2017WRKK04000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The person named has submitted a payment claim under the Dairy Equipment Scheme of TAMS 11. There were a number of errors with the claim submitted which have been raised directly with the applicant. It is anticipated that these outstanding issues will be resolved over the next few days and once they are resolved payment will issue.

11/07/2017WRKK04100Agriculture Scheme Appeals

11/07/2017WRKK04200549. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of an appeal by a person (details supplied) sent to his Department on 12 June 2017 and to which the person has received no reply; when a reply will issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32135/17]

11/07/2017WRKK04300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The person named submitted a 2016 transfer of entitlements application to my Department seeking the transfer of entitlements by gift as a transferee. The transfer application was rejected as it was not signed by both transferors and transferee, or authorised persons on their behalf, as required. Both transferors and transferee were advised in writing that the transfer application was unsuccessful and they were offered the opportunity to submit an appeal to my Department. 453 Questions - Written Answers An appeal has been received by my Department and is currently under review. This review will be completed shortly and the person named will be notified of the outcome.

11/07/2017WRKK04400Fishing Industry Data

11/07/2017WRKK04500550. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the tonnage that is exported unprocessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32206/17]

11/07/2017WRKK04600551. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the tonnage that is retained and processed here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32207/17]

11/07/2017WRKK04700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 550 and 551 together.

The supply of fish in Ireland is influenced by the volume of fish landed by Irish vessels into Irish ports, landings into Irish ports by foreign vessels, aquaculture production and fish imported. In 2016, I understand that 281,000 tonnes of wild caught fish were available, while aquaculture provided 44,000 tonnes approximately and 66,000 tonnes were imported.

I understand that 272,000 tonnes approximately were processed to some degree in 2016. The degree of processing varies from basic processing such as chilling and freezing to added value processing such as filleting, cooking, marinating, smoking etc. The volume subjected to value added processing in 2016 was 111,643 tonnes.

The volume of fish exported unprocessed in 2016 was 54,100 tonnes. Some 158,200 tonnes were processed to some degree before being exported and of this, some 40,900 tonnes were subjected to added value processing.

Food Wise 2025 specifies an ambition to reduce the amount of fish sold in commodity form from 70% to below 50%. My Department’s €240 million European Maritime and Fisheries Fund Operational Programme is engaged in a number of initiatives to help achieve that ambition. The Seafood Capital Investment Scheme provides grants to seafood processing enterprises to invest in added value processing equipment and premises, while the Seafood Innova- tion and Business Planning Scheme provides aid to processors to develop and trial added value products and conduct packaging.

11/07/2017WRLL00300Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRLL00400552. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the total funds that will become available within his Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for goods and services and or changes to costs within his Department and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32227/17]

11/07/2017WRLL00500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The gross vote of the Department in 2017 amounts to €1,490m, comprising €1,230m in current expenditure and €260m in capital expenditure including a carry-over of €21.7 million capital from the 2016 allocation. This total allocation is based on requirements to meet existing and new commitments and liabilities in relation to programmes, schemes and services managed by my Depart- 454 11 July 2017 ment, and, as such, there is no unallocated spend within the vote. The detailed allocations are set out in the Revised Estimates Volume (REV) 2017.

The programmes and schemes to which funding has been allocated in 2017, for example schemes within the Rural Development Programme, the Seafood Development Programme and the Forestry Programme, are multi-annual in their nature and are not due to cease in 2017.

The discussions on the 2018 Estimate are under way in my Department and all budget lines in the vote, both current and capital are being examined as part of that process. My intention is to ensure that all resources available to my Department will be managed to advance Gov- ernment priorities and to provide the optimum benefit to economic activity in the agricultural, food, fisheries and forestry sectors, including farm incomes, and to realising the potential which clearly exists for the sectors to continue to contribute to the national economic recovery.

11/07/2017WRLL00600Fishing Vessel Licences

11/07/2017WRLL00700553. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if special arrangements can be made to accommodate the licensing in 2017 of mussel seed fishermen who have UK-registered boats in view of the Supreme Court judgment that has resulted in authorisations for the 2017 mussel seed fishery being provided only to eligible Irish sea fishing boats nominated to fish mussel seed allocations on behalf of aquaculture sites that are licensed by his Department or are provided for in legislation. [32233/17]

11/07/2017WRLL00800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The mussel seed fishery is managed on an all-island basis, in conjunction with the Department of Agricul- ture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Northern Ireland (DAERA NI) and the cross-border Loughs Agency. To fish for mussel seed, Irish-registered sea-fishing boats require an authorisation under section 13 of the Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006. Authorisations are only provided to those boats which are directly connected with a bottom grown mussel aquaculture operator who holds a mussel seed “allocation” for his or her aquaculture site or boats that are contracted to fish on behalf of same. An allocation restricts the amount (tonnes) of mussel seed that may be relayed onto a given site. Boats from Northern Ireland require equivalent licenses from DAERA NI to take part in the fishery and must meet corresponding regulatory requirements.

On 27 October 2016, the Supreme Court issued a judgment in a case taken by a number of mussel seed fishermen (Barlow & ors -v- Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine & ors [2016] IESC 62, 27th October 2016). In the judgment, the Supreme Court found that fishing by Northern Ireland boats within the 0 to 6 nautical mile zone of the territorial waters of the State under the Voisinage arrangements is not permitted by law. The Voisinage Arrangements are long-standing reciprocal arrangements which allow fishing boats from Northern Ireland access to fish within the 0 to 6 nautical mile zone of the territorial waters of the State and vice versa.

It is important to note that the Supreme Court upheld the High Court finding that the Voi- sinage Arrangements are not invalid but that, as it stands, there is insufficient provision for them in domestic law. The Supreme Court in fact noted that the arrangements were a sensible recognition at official level of practice and tradition, where fishing boats traditionally fished neighbouring waters.

The application of the judgment is to all fishing by Northern Irish fishing boats in the 0 to 6 nautical mile zone relying on the Voisinage Arrangements. Fishing activities that have a legal basis are not affected, such as those reliant on the access arrangements to Ireland’s 6 to 12

455 Questions - Written Answers nautical mile zone set out in Regulation (EU) No. 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council.

The Government approved the publication of the Sea-Fisheries (Amendment) Bill to address issues raised by the Supreme Court judgment of 27 October 2016, in so far as it relates to access for NI vessels. If enacted and commenced, the Bill will give the Voisinage Arrange- ments a proper legal footing. The Bill was published in February 2017 and is available on the Oireachtas website. The Bill has been debated in the Seanad and now is at Committee Stage there.

While the Bill proposes to restore access to Northern Ireland boats to fish, under the terms of the Voisinage Arrangements, boats that make use of this access are subject to the same rules and conditions that apply to Irish sea-fishing boats. The Bill itself does not apply the specific conditions. Therefore, other parallel associated measures will be required to ensure that rules and conditions in place for Irish sea-fishing boats are appropriately applied to Northern Ireland boats fishing under the Voisinage Arrangements.

The process of identifying which conditions may need to be applied is under way. The conditions will include such restrictions as currently apply to Irish sea-fishing boats. When the necessary measures have been identified, the most appropriate mechanisms for applying them to Northern Ireland boats will be determined. The objective will be for these measures to come into effect at the same time as a commencement order for the Bill.

Together, the Bill and the associated measures will re-establish the status quo for fishing access that existed under the Voisinage Arrangements before the Supreme Court’s judgment on 27 October 2016. The only difference will be that the Voisinage Arrangements will be provided for within a legislative framework.

11/07/2017WRLL00900Control of Horses

11/07/2017WRLL01000554. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the costs incurred by his Department over the past four years relating to the seizure of animals, specifically horses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32235/17]

11/07/2017WRLL01100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Control of Horses Act 1996 designates powers to local authorities enabling them to control stray and abandoned horses in this country. Under the Act the Minister for Agriculture Food and the Ma- rine may offer financial assistance towards the expenses incurred by the Local Authorities in operation of the Act. My Department has contributed funding of €4.2 million to local authorities in respect of control of horses activities for the period 2014-2017 (to date). This funding represents a very substantial support from the Exchequer to Local Authorities. For their part Local Authorities should ensure they are achieving best value possible through the public procurement process.

In addition to the work of Local Authorities, my Department officials have removed a number of abandoned, welfare compromised and/or unidentified horses throughout the country in the period 2014 to 2017 at a cost of €303,000. The removal of abandoned straying horses has undoubtedly staved off a number of potentially serious horse welfare situations.

A further initiative introduced by my Department to reduce the numbers of straying horses, is the provision of funding in respect of Urban Horse Projects. The funding is provided to local authorities to support urban/traveller horse projects in their respective areas. A number of projects are currently being developed in conjunction with local authorities and animal wel- 456 11 July 2017 fare bodies. These projects provide many benefits to communities including reductions in the amount of stray animals. The educational aspect of the project also enables greater compliance with animal welfare regulations.

My Department continues to stress that it is the responsibility of individuals to ensure the welfare of horses in their ownership and/or their care and to dispose of them appropriately. Over the years the Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Council, which comprises representative of various stakeholders in the animal welfare area, has been instrumental in promoting horse welfare in a practical manner.

11/07/2017WRLL01200Farm Safety

11/07/2017WRLL01300555. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the efforts his Department is making to address the dangers related to slurry pits and tanks on farms; the number of deaths associated with such pits and tanks to which the attention of his Department was drawn in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32236/17]

11/07/2017WRLL01400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Farm safety is a critical issue facing farming today. Statistics show that accidents on farms cause more workplace deaths than all other occupations combined. To date this year there have been 15 fatal farm accidents on Irish farms. These 15 fatal farm accidents account for fifty percent of all fatal work accidents so far in 2017, while farming accounts for less than 6 percent of the workforce. Since the beginning of 2012 there have been 5 fatal accidents relating to slurry pit safety.

All of the Building Specifications drawn up by my Department for the construction of agricultural buildings and structures include a section on Health and Safety. These specifications set out the minimum standard to which all work must be completed and include safety related requirements such as all slurry agitation points being external and guidelines on the safe agitation of slurry. It is a requirement of these farm building specifications that all slurry tanks are either securely fenced, or covered by slats or slabs with safety access points. These specifications are freely available to all farmers.

As part of the current TAMS II schemes, grant-aid is available for the retrofitting of safety fencing, safety manhole covers, slabs and slat replacement, this is in addition to grant-aiding new slurry stores that meet the full requirements of my Department’s Farm Building Specifica- tions. Grant-aid is provided at a rate of 40% of the cost of the works and Young Farmers will be grant-aided at 60% of the cost of the works. Also, under the TAMS II schemes, grant-aid will be provided for the provision of a slurry agitation platform for all external tanks.

11/07/2017WRLL01500Organic Farming Scheme Payments

11/07/2017WRLL01600556. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be paid a 2016 organic farming scheme payment; and his views on the fact that the process is taking over a year between inspection and payment. [32248/17]

11/07/2017WRLL01700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I can confirm that any issues outstanding in respect of the Organic Farming Scheme payment for the person named have now been addressed. I have been assured that payment will issue shortly.

457 Questions - Written Answers I appreciate there can be a time gap between inspection and payment however my officials need to examine each of these files individually, looking at all the circumstances where issues need to be reconciled, and then calculating what is due in each case.

11/07/2017WRLL01800Fishing Industry

11/07/2017WRLL01900557. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the UK Government raised the issue of the London Fisheries Convention ahead of announcing its intention to leave it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32253/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02000558. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he raised the importance of the London Fisheries Convention with the UK Government before 2 July 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32254/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02100559. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the projected impact of the UK decision to leave the London Fisheries Convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32255/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02200560. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if contingency planning is underway for the UK leaving the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32256/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02300561. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of times he has met with his UK colleague to discuss fisheries in the context of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32257/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02400562. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he has met with representatives of the European Commission on the issue of the Common Fisheries Policy as it relates to a potential trade deal after Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32258/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02500563. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of staff in place dedicated to Brexit as it will impact on fisheries in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32259/17]

11/07/2017WRLL02600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 557 to 563, inclusive, together.

The action by the UK in announcing its withdrawal from the 1964 London Fisheries Con- vention was not unexpected. The UK Government had been intimating this decision for some time now. It is nonetheless unwelcome and unhelpful as it suggests a signal of the UK intent to take a hard line on fisheries in the context of Brexit.

There are no immediate direct impacts for the Irish fishing industry from this action as it will not take effect for two years. Any longer term impacts will only become clear in the overall context of the Brexit negotiations. It is the message of intent and the potential implications of that intent in the wider 12 to 200 mile zone that causes concern for the negotiations to come.

The Convention deals primarily with the right of a number of countries to fish in each other’s 6 to 12 mile fishing zones based on historic fishing activity. Most of these rights were later incorporated into the Common Fisheries Policy.

Under the Convention, the Irish fishing fleet has access to parts of the UK 6-12 mile zone while the UK fleet has similar access to parts of the Irish zone. The Irish fleet is not significantly 458 11 July 2017 dependant on this limited access. We do however catch significant quantities of fish in UK waters outside of the 12 mile zone.

As Michel Barnier noted after the UK announcement, the decision to withdraw from the London Fisheries Convention will not trigger any immediate change and he is focused on prioritising the fisheries interests of the EU 27. This will not be a piecemeal negotiation with fisheries isolated from the wider negotiations on a post Brexit EU/UK relationship. There is a long way to go yet and nothing will be agreed until everything is agreed. For this Government there are two clear objectives when it comes to fisheries and Brexit – the maintenance of our existing quota shares and our existing rights of access. These have, and will continue to be, my overriding priority.

In theory, the UK could indeed restrict access to their waters and or seek to gain larger quota shares at the expense of others. However, that could only happen if the UK were content to ignore the potential repercussions that would certainly arise from the EU side.

To achieve these objectives, we must have unity of purpose across the Member States directly concerned and across the fishing industry. Disunity will only strengthen those in the UK that seek to exclude all EU fleets.

I spoke with Secretary of State Michael Gove last week and stressed to him the importance of long established fishing patterns by the Irish fishing fleet and the importance of these being acknowledged and protected in the context of Brexit. I have previously discussed fisheries issues amongst other matters with his predecessor as Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsom, on two separate occasions. I have also discussed Fisheries, with a particular focus on the London Fish- ing Convention along with general access issues with Minister George Eustice during a meeting at the Luxembourg Agriculture Council on the 3rd of April.

I have had 3 separate meetings with Fisheries Commissioner Vella where I have discussed Ireland’s concerns regarding Brexit as well as a number of key bilaterals with other Ministers. In addition, my officials are in constant contact with their counterparts in the European Com- mission and relevant Member States.

As the negotiations develop, unilateral sectoral announcements, like this one on the London Convention, will be dealt with, as this will be, within the Brexit negotiation process and there will be no room, or indeed intent, to address issues in isolation.

My Department and our associated agencies, BIM, the Marine Institute and Bord Bia are currently working closely together on all of the potential impacts of Brexit. My Department has been preparing for Brexit for over 2 years. Following the UK referendum in June 2016, I established a dedicated Brexit Co-ordination Unit. This Unit now forms part of a newly formed Brexit and International Trade Division. It comprises four staff working full-time on the coordination of Brexit issues, reporting to a full-time Head of Division at Principal Officer level, who in turn reports to an Assistant Secretary General deeply engaged in Brexit issues. Many staff throughout my Department are working on Brexit related issues. My Fisheries Division has four people preparing for the Brexit negotiations and the implications Brexit could have on the Irish seafood industry. In overall terms, my Department is continuing to monitor the future workforce needs of both the Department and its agencies in relation to Brexit, and will be keeping resource allocations under close review as the negotiations proceed.

It is important to remember that the EU itself will continue, as will the Common Fisheries Policy once the UK has left. The process for reviewing and revising the CFP in preparation for a new Policy will commence around the same time and will be due for completion in 2022. Ireland will again be a central player in that renegotiation. 459 Questions - Written Answers I am firmly of the view that now is not the time to commence our internal consideration of the review of the CFP. We must concentrate all our efforts on the Brexit negotiations at this time and until Brexit is completed. The discussion on the post Brexit CFP will undoubtedly occur in earnest once the Brexit arrangements are clear. For the coming period it is important to keep the focus on Brexit.

I am working closely with our fishing industry and held a detailed public discussion with stakeholders just the other week in Galway. I will remain in close contact with fisheries stakeholders as the issues develop and work with them and my fellow fisheries Ministers in the EU to ensure that we are all fully prepared for what are likely to be extremely complex negotiations.

I strongly believe that a unified front on these matters is best for Ireland, the EU and the continued sustainability of our stocks.

In conclusion, I would like to assure Deputies that I aim to ensure that fisheries are inex- tricably linked to overall trade discussions during the negotiations. I will also be unequivocal in opposing any dilution of our existing EU quota shares, including protecting the benefit to Ireland of the Hague Preferences, and any limitations on our existing rights of access.

11/07/2017WRLL03300Crop Losses

11/07/2017WRLL03400564. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine when details of the crop loss compensation scheme will be made available to tillage farmers who had their crop damaged by extremely wet weather in 2016. [32301/17]

11/07/2017WRLL03500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I wish to acknowledge that the Tillage farmers have come through a very difficult period with poor market returns and very challenging weather conditions during the 2016 harvest. Once the current occupation of part of the Department’s head office building is ended I would be happy to facilitate a meeting with the IFA as soon as possible to discuss the support measure for those cereal growers worst affected by the 2016 harvest conditions.

I have also supported the Tillage sector through the “Agriculture Cashflow Support Loan Scheme” and last month I welcomed the release of preliminary information from the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) regarding its uptake.

The banks advise that all of the remaining €150m is committed and is in the process of being drawn down. I am pleased at the very positive reaction by farmers, including tillage farmers, to the Scheme, which has proved that significant demand exists for low cost flexible finance. I have met with the Chief Executives of the participating banks to discuss this and other access to finance issues relating to the agri-food sector. I have asked the banks to respond positively to the demand that has been demonstrated by reducing interest rates and providing more flexible terms for cash flow loans in the future. Implementation of this Scheme is subject to the provisions of Commission Regulation (EU) No 1408/2013 (de minimis aid in the agricultural production sector). Support provided under the de minimis regulation complies with State Aid rules in the agriculture sector and does not require prior approval by the EU Commission.

As a further support to tillage farmers I also introduced the Tillage Investment Scheme under TAMS II which opened for online applications on the 8 March 2017. The specific areas of investment include Minimum Disturbance Tillage Equipment, Sprayers, Rain Water Harvesting, Grain Storage and Grain dryers. This Tillage Scheme is the latest of the Targeted Modernisation Schemes (TAMS II) to be launched under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020. The Scheme is co-funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). All 460 11 July 2017 applications must be made on-line, either by the farmer or by an adviser authorised to act on his or her behalf. The closing date for applications under the first tranche of the new scheme was Friday 30 June 2017. The second tranche is currently open. There was a significant level of interest in investments under this measure with a total number of 490 applications received in the first tranche. The GLAS scheme has seen a significant uptake, with measures such as green cover, minimum tillage and wild bird cover proving popular with the tillage sector.

As an additional support to cash flow on farms, including Tillage farms, up to €1.187billion has been paid out under the Basic Payment Scheme to 124,222 farmers with payments ongoing. Payments of €202.4 million have also been made to 94,605 applicants under the Areas of Natural Constraints Scheme.

11/07/2017WRLL03600Fisheries Protection

11/07/2017WRLL03700565. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the way in which the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy objective to restore and maintain populations of harvested species above levels capable of producing maximum sustainable yield, as outlined in Article 2.2 of the Common Fisheries Policy Regulation 1380/2013, translates into a requirement to simultaneously fish all stocks at FMSY; if there is no provision preventing the Council from adopting fishing opportunities below the FMSY reference point in order to achieve this objective of the Common Fisheries Policy; the way in which the Council plans to apply the precautionary approach and the way in which it will ensure at least a comparable degree of conservation in line with Article 9(2) of the Common Fisheries Policy Regulation 1380/2013 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32304/17]

11/07/2017WRLL03800566. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine which by-catches caught when fishing for the stocks in both groups 1 and 2 are defined (details supplied) in view of the mixed nature of North Sea fisheries; the stocks that will be managed as by-catch under this multi-annual plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32305/17]

11/07/2017WRLL03900567. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether there are populations of harvested stocks falling outside Article 2.2 of Regulation 1380/2013 (details supplied); if so, if he will identify the stocks in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32306/17]

11/07/2017WRLL04000568. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the way in which he defines the best available scientific advice (details supplied); his views on whether such advice should be peer reviewed and made publicly available in a timely manner, in advance of decisions by the Council in the interest of transparency and stakeholder access to information and in view of the fact that dialogue with stakeholders has proven to be essential for achieving the objectives of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy, as outlined in preamble 65 of Common Fisheries Policy Regulation 1360/2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32307/17]

11/07/2017WRLL04100569. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on whether the Council’s approach in using the International Council for the Ex- ploration of the Sea’s maximum sustainable yield advice rule (details supplied) is in line with the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea’s advice, in view of the fact that it recommends stricter, narrower ranges if the plan does not include a requirement to follow its maximum sustainable yield rule; his views on following the International Council for the Ex- ploration of the Sea’s advice to use stricter ranges in the North Sea multi-annual plan if no requirement to follow its maximum sustainable yield rule is added; and if he will make a state- 461 Questions - Written Answers ment on the matter. [32308/17]

11/07/2017WRLL04200Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 565 to 569, inclusive, together.

Ireland does not have any demersal fishing opportunities in the North Sea and consequently our direct interest in the negotiations on a new multi annual plan for that sea basin is necessarily limited. We do, however, expect a proposal from the Commission before the end of the year for a similar multi-annual plan for demersal stocks in North Western Waters which will very much be of direct interest and with which we will be very actively engaged as a key player in those waters.

The general aims of the North Sea plan proposal are to aim to ensure that populations of harvested species are above levels which can produce the maximum sustainable yield, move towards long-term multi-species management, the full implementation of the landing obligation and the regionalisation of technical measures. All of these aims are fully in line with the objectives and requirements of the Common Fisheries Policy (Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013) which Ireland fully supports. In particular, Ireland is committed to the objective of achieving the Maximum Sustainable Yield exploitation rate (FMSY) for all stocks by 2020. The 2017 TAC and Quota regulation achieved tangible progress toward this goal of the CFP while also ensuring the economic viability of an industry that supports vital jobs of numerous coastal communities around Ireland. To give an example of the progress made, in the early 2000’s, 94% if stocks were overfished while today more than half of the assessed stocks are managed sustain- ably. Ireland intends to continue to work with all stakeholders, Member States and the Com- mission to build upon this substantial and tangible progress to achieve the ambitious targets set out in the CFP.

The ongoing implementation of the landing obligation is also a key challenge and priority. This is a radical change in the operation of our fisheries and one that I believe will bring many long term benefits. It is, however, complex and there is intensive work ongoing with stakeholders and the Commission to try and ensure that we get it right. Significant progress has been made to date with the roll out of the landing obligation. From 2019, all stocks subject to catch limits must be landed and we are working hard with our industry and marine agencies as well as with other Member States on improving gear selectivity and other technical measures that aim to significantly reduce unwanted catches

With regard to ‘best available scientific advice’, Ireland receives expert, impartial advice from the Marine Institute on all matters pertaining to the state of our stocks. The majority of the Marine Institute advice for the TACs and quotas each year is formulated by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) to which it is a very active contributor. The Marine Institute also uses advice from the Commission’s Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) and the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). In a minority of cases, the Marine Institute may not agree with some aspects of these advices and may offer alternative advice with a clear rationale. The Minister presents a Sustainability Impact Assessment on the TACs and quotas proposals each year in advance of the December Fisheries Council. This assessment is informed by the advice of the Ma- rine Institute and a socio economic assessment by BIM and the views of stakeholders following a public consultation. This work informs Ireland’s position on any Commission proposal.

I look forward to engaging closely with the Deputy and all interested stakeholders, both from industry and wider civic society, on the proposal for a multi annual plan for North Western waters when it is published, to ensure that we have a plan fit for purpose that enhances the long terms sustainability of the stocks upon which our coastal communities depend.

462 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRMM00600GLAS Payments

11/07/2017WRMM00700570. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of a GLAS payment for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32324/17]

11/07/2017WRMM00800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The person named approved into GLAS 1 with a contract commencement date of 1 January 2016.

The person named has requested a reduction in the length of new hedgerow to be planted as set out in his commitments in his original application. This has resulted in the delay in issuing payment.

As stated in my reply to the Deputy on Tuesday last 4 July, my Department is actively working to resolve the issue with a view to further processing the application for payment at the earliest opportunity.

11/07/2017WRMM00900Brexit Issues

11/07/2017WRMM01000571. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to the announcement by the British government on accessing British waters as per the 1964 treaty, his views on the potential impact this will have on Ireland’s fishing industry; if he and his departmental officials have met to discuss the issue; if he has sought a meeting with his British counterpart; the actions he will be taking to protect Ireland’s fishing industry; the extra supports that will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32338/17]

11/07/2017WRMM01100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The action by the UK in announcing its withdrawal from the 1964 London Fisheries Convention was not unexpected. The UK Government had been intimating this decision for some time now. It is nonetheless unwelcome and unhelpful as it suggests a signal of the UK intent to take a hard line on fisheries in the context of Brexit.

This will not be a piecemeal negotiation with fisheries isolated from the wider negotiations on a post Brexit EU/UK relationship. There is a long way to go yet and nothing will be agreed until everything is agreed.

For this Government there are two clear objectives when it comes to fisheries and Brexit – the maintenance of our existing quota shares and our existing rights of access. These have, and will continue to be, my overriding priorities.

463 Questions - Written Answers I spoke with Secretary of State Michael Gove last week and stressed to him the importance of long established fishing patterns by the Irish fishing fleet and the importance of these being acknowledged and protected in the context of Brexit. I have previously discussed fisheries issues amongst other matters with his predecessor as Secretary of State, Andrea Leadsom, on two separate occasions. I have also discussed Fisheries, with a particular focus on the London Fish- ing Convention along with general access issues with Minister George Eustice during a meeting at the Luxembourg Agriculture Council on 3 April.

In terms of support for the sector, my Department’s €240 million EMFF Fund Operational Programme for the seafood sector will assist the seafood sector to develop Brexit mitigation measures. The Programme provides €5 million to Bord Bia to supplement its normal seafood promotion work programme and this is allowing Bord Bia to have an Irish pavilion at many additional seafood trade fairs internationally. This can be expected to lead to new export markets for seafood enterprises, particularly in Asia, thus assisting the companies concerned in diversifying their market outlets.

Last October, as part of Budget 2017, I announced measures aimed at alleviating the pressures of income volatility and the potential impact of Brexit. These measures included an additional allocation of €1.6m in 2016 and €2m in 2017 to Bord Bia to ensure that they are in a position to provide Brexit-related supports to affected companies. I also provided for increased funding under the Rural Development Programme and Seafood Development Programme.

As part of overall work on Brexit, my Department, in conjunction with Bord Iascaigh Mhara and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, are currently modelling the potential impacts Brexit might have on the seafood trade under the different possible scenarios’. As part of this analysis, BIM are conducting a survey of seafood enterprises in Ireland to ascertain their dependence on trade directly with the UK and the use of the UK as a land bridge to continental markets.

I strongly believe that a unified front on these matters is best for Ireland, the EU and the continued sustainability of our stocks.

11/07/2017WRMM01200GLAS Administration

11/07/2017WRMM01300572. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a scheme (details supplied) will be open to applicants; the details in relation to this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32408/17]

11/07/2017WRMM01400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The second tranche of GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme closed for applications on 18 No- vember 2016. The scheme is administered by The Heritage Council on behalf of my Depart- ment. A total of 93 applications were shortlisted for offers of grant aid.

It is planned to open a further tranche of this very successful scheme later this year for ap- 464 11 July 2017 plications for works to be undertaken in 2018.

11/07/2017WRMM01500Brexit Issues

11/07/2017WRMM01600573. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine if his Department or Bord Iascaigh Mhara completed an analysis on the effects of the fishing trade since the Brexit vote in June 2016; and the details of all such documents and publication dates. [32418/17]

11/07/2017WRMM01700574. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the specific EU Council of Fisheries ministers meetings at which he made the case for the need of a Brexit financial support package for fishermen during the UK’s two year exit phase from the EU and subsequent transition phase since taking office; the date of every such meeting at which this was raised, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32419/17]

11/07/2017WRMM01800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): I propose to take Questions Nos. 573 and 574 together.

Discussions on the future of the Common Fisheries Policy and its funding component have not yet commenced within the Council. The size and distribution of the future marine & fisheries budget will be determined as part of the process for agreeing the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) for the post-2020 period, discussions on which are not expected to commence until early 2018.

Given the significant contribution the UK makes to the EU budget, its departure from the EU will have implications for future spending decisions in what is already a very tight budgetary framework. The current European Maritime and Fisheries Fund amounts to €6.4 billion in total, and there may be pressure from some Member States to reduce this amount and to divert EU spending to other policy areas.

It is vitally important that a strong EMFF budget is maintained for the future of fishing and the seafood industry in Ireland and Europe. This is something that I will be actively pursuing at Council level when discussions on funding levels commence.

My Department’s €240 million EMFF Fund Operational Programme for the seafood sector was launched in 2016. The Programme is implemented through 18 schemes, a number of which may directly assist the seafood sector to develop Brexit mitigation measures. The Programme provides €5 million to Bord Bia to supplement its normal seafood promotion work programme and this is allowing Bord Bia to have an Irish pavilion at many additional seafood trade fairs internationally. This can be expected to lead to new export markets for seafood enterprises, particularly in Asia, thus assisting the companies concerned in diversifying their market outlets.

Earlier this year I awarded over €1.8 million in grants to 19 seafood enterprises under the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund Operational Programme for the seafood sector. The aim of these grants is to incentivise seafood innovation and new product development as a means of meeting the Brexit challenge. 465 Questions - Written Answers As part of overall work on Brexit, my Department, in conjunction with Bord Iascaigh Mhara and the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, are currently modelling the potential impacts Brexit might have on the seafood trade under the different possible scenarios. As part of this analysis, BIM are conducting a survey of seafood enterprises in Ireland to ascertain their dependence on trade directly with the UK and the use of the UK as a land bridge to continental markets.

11/07/2017WRMM02000Brexit Staff

11/07/2017WRMM02100575. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the number of staff recruited since the Brexit referendum in June 2016 in all individual State agencies and bodies under his aegis including Bord Bia, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the Na- tional Milk Agency, Teagasc and the Marine Institute; the number of staff in each such agency and body recruited since 1 January 2017, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32420/17]

11/07/2017WRMM02200Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Staff hires within State agencies under my Department’s auspices are a matter for the State Agencies themselves once they remain within their budget set in their Delegated Sanction.

11/07/2017WRMM02300Basic Payment Scheme Payments

11/07/2017WRMM02400576. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a payment has been issued to a person (details supplied) in relation to their 2015 and 2016 single farm payment. [32458/17]

11/07/2017WRMM02500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): An application under the 2015 Basic Payment scheme was received from the person named on 13 April 2016, thus incurring a 100% late penalty as it was outside the timeframe allowed under the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme.

Following the submission of an appeal the late penalty was waived.

A review of the entitlement position is now underway. Following the conclusion of this review, the above named person will be notified by an official from my Department.

11/07/2017WRMM02600GLAS Payments

11/07/2017WRMM02700577. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a person (details supplied) will be paid their entitlements under the GLAS scheme. [32460/17]

11/07/2017WRMM02800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The person named was approved into GLAS 1 with a contract commencement date of the 1 October 2015 and has received full payment in respect of the 2015 scheme year.

During the 2016 prepayment checking process an issue was identified with the Planting New Hedgerows and Traditional Orchards actions. Department officials contacted the person named directly to resolve the issues and the application is now being further processed for payment in respect of the 2016 scheme year.

466 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRMM02900Control of Horses

11/07/2017WRMM03000578. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will introduce a system of licensing and regulating the use of horse drawn vehicles that would include an age restriction on those that operate horse drawn vehicles (details supplied). [32504/17]

11/07/2017WRMM03100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport on 2 May 2017 (PQ Reference 1319) advised the Deputy that drivers of horse-drawn vehicles, like all vehicles used in a public places, are required to comply with road traffic legislation, and are responsible for behaving in a safe manner.

The Control of Horses Act 1996, enforced by Local Authorities includes provisions (Section 46 of Act) on the making of bye laws, concerning the protection of horses, persons and property. It is a matter for each Local Authority to determine the bye laws that are appropriate to its functional area. Section 20 of the Act includes provisions for Local Authorities to grant horse licences to horse owners entitling the owner to keep the horse in a control area and provision is made for the revocation or suspension of the licence if the holder is in breach of the Act. This section also includes a provision that a Local Authority shall not grant a horse licence to any person under the age of 16 years.

The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 regulates sale of animals to minors and makes it an offence to sell an animal to persons under the age of 16 years.

11/07/2017WRMM03200Brexit Issues

11/07/2017WRMM03300579. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to meet with the British Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in relation to his recent announcement that Britain will withdraw from the London fisheries treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32535/17]

11/07/2017WRMM03400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The action by the UK in announcing its withdrawal from the 1964 London Fisheries Convention was not unexpected. The UK Government had been intimating this decision for some time now. It is nonetheless unwelcome and unhelpful as it suggests a signal of the UK intent to take a hard line on fisheries in the context of Brexit.

Under the Convention, the Irish fishing fleet has access to parts of the UK 6-12 mile zone while the UK fleet has similar access to parts of the Irish zone. The Irish fleet is not significantly dependant on this limited access. We do however catch significant quantities of fish in UK waters outside of the 12 mile zone.

As Michel Barnier noted after the UK announcement, the decision to withdraw from the London Fisheries Convention will not trigger any immediate change and he is focused on pri- 467 Questions - Written Answers oritising the fisheries interests of the EU 27.

I strongly believe that a unified front on these matters is best for Ireland, the EU and the continued sustainability of our stocks.

In conclusion, I would like to assure Deputy that I aim to ensure that fisheries are inextrica- bly linked to overall trade discussions during the negotiations. I will also be unequivocal in opposing any dilution of our existing EU quota shares, including protecting the benefit to Ireland of the Hague Preferences, and any limitations on our existing rights of access.

11/07/2017WRMM03500Milk Prices

11/07/2017WRMM03600580. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there are plans under consideration at European Union level in relation to the need to provide adequate market supports for the dairy sector to counter volatility resulting in poor milk prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32536/17]

11/07/2017WRMM03700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Whilst dairy markets are currently broadly stable, the Deputy will be aware that between mid 2014 and the end of 2016 dairy markets experienced significant difficulties. This was due to a combination

468 11 July 2017 of factors including increased global supply, the effects of the Russian ban on the import of EU agri-food products and reduced global demand, notably for dairy products in China.

During that phase of downward price volatility, the EU Commission, prompted by Ireland and other Member States, responded to these difficulties through the deployment of support measures. These measures included the extension and broadening of more ‘traditional’ support measures such as intervention and aids to private storage, as well as more flexible, targeted, direct aid allocated to Member States to spend in accordance with their national circumstances.

Ireland welcomed and used many of the options provided in the various packages. These included the private storage of dairy products, the buying of skimmed milk powder (SMP) into intervention and the payment of direct aid of €26.4 million to dairy producers. The advance payment of annual direct payments to all farmers was also a welcome provision of cash flow for farmers at a difficult time. In addition, a Milk Production Reduction Scheme allowed almost 44,000 farmers across the EU (circa 4,000 from Ireland) to agree voluntarily to reduce their milk production. These measures, taken as a whole represented significant market stabilising efforts.

Global supply and demand dynamics evolved more favourably as 2016 progressed with a better market environment emerging as a consequence. In spite of these signals of market recovery, the situation remains uncertain in particular product sectors, such as SMP. The long-term fundamentals of the global dairy market are strong. However it is necessary to be cognisant of the on-going challenge of price volatility, which will continue to be a feature of international markets. The CAP’s Common Market Organisation Regulation provides for the full range of supports deployed in 2015 and early 2016. Dairy processors also have a significant role to play, with instruments such as fixed price and margin contracts a useful addition to the suite of public support measures that can be deployed to mitigate the impact of price volatility.

I will continue to work with industry, with other member states and with the EU Institutions to consider how we can refine and improve mechanisms to help farmers to cope with downward price cycles when they arise.

11/07/2017WRNN00200Transfer of Entitlements

11/07/2017WRNN00300581. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine further to Parliamentary Question No. 581 of 23 May 2017, the progress to date in relation to a transfer (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32549/17]

11/07/2017WRNN00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): As outlined to the Deputy in my response to Parliamentary Question No. 581 in May, this is a complex case involving a number of interested parties. The case has been prioritised by my Department, who have been in correspondence with the solicitors for the persons referred to by the Deputy.

My Department has also discussed the matter with the Chief State Solicitors Office and subject to the clarification of outstanding legal and conveyancing issues, will be progressing the case in the most appropriate manner based on the advice received.

11/07/2017WRNN00500Living Wage Implementation

11/07/2017WRNN00600582. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the cost

469 Questions - Written Answers of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32555/17]

11/07/2017WRNN00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Based on the introduction of a minimum hourly rate of €11.70, the estimated additional cost to the Depart- ment’s payroll at present would be approximately €345,000. This figure however does not include the costs associated with Temporary Clerical Officers.

The parallel information in respect of State Bodies under the aegis of this Department is a matter for the bodies themselves.

11/07/2017WRNN00800Brexit Issues

11/07/2017WRNN00900583. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans to meet the UK Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Michael Gove MP, to discuss the UK’s decision to withdraw from the London fisheries convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32590/17]

11/07/2017WRNN01000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The action by the UK in announcing its withdrawal from the 1964 London Fisheries Convention was not unexpected. The UK Government had been intimating this decision for some time now. It is nonetheless unwelcome and unhelpful as it suggests a signal of the UK intent to take a hard line on fisheries in the context of Brexit.

Under the Convention, the Irish fishing fleet has access to parts of the UK 6-12 mile zone while the UK fleet has similar access to parts of the Irish zone. The Irish fleet is not significantly dependant on this limited access. We do however catch significant quantities of fish in UK waters outside of the 12 mile zone.

470 11 July 2017 To achieve these objectives, we must have unity of purpose across the Member States directly concerned and across the fishing industry. Disunity will only strengthen those in the UK that seek to exclude all EU fleets.

I strongly believe that a unified front on these matters is best for Ireland, the EU and the continued sustainability of our stocks.

11/07/2017WRNN01100Fishing Industry Data

11/07/2017WRNN01200584. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the percentage of Irish landings made within six and 12 nautical miles of the UK’s coastline for each specific fishing stock; and the percentage of landings made by each EU member state within six and 12 nautical miles of Ireland’s coastline for each specific fishing stock, in tabular form. [32639/17]

11/07/2017WRNN01300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The data sought by the Deputy is complex and will take some time to compile. My Department, in consultation with the Marine Institute, will provide a comprehensive reply directly to the Deputy as soon as possible. I am advised by the Marine Institute that the estimated amount of landings by Irish vessels from the UK 6 to 12 mile zone and landings by non-Irish vessels from the Irish 6 to 12 mile zone are not considered to be very significant in overall terms.

11/07/2017WRNN01400Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRNN01500585. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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

471 Questions - Written Answers made, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32644/17]

11/07/2017WRNN01600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The information requested by the Deputy with regard to photography is available on my Departments 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.

The vast bulk of my Department’s advertising consists of press notices in the specialised farming press, provincial and national newspapers. This expenditure includes the publication of Statutory Notices that are required to comply with various national and EU legislative requirements. Decisions on the placement of notices are made on a case by case basis, depending on the nature of the advertisement and the target audience. The expenditure on advertising for the period in question is set out in the attached table.

In general, public relations advice is provided by my Department’s Press Office. However, from time to time, it may be necessary to engage the services of an outside provider for media interview training and preparation purposes. Expenditure in this regard is detailed in the table attached. My Department has not engaged the services of a public relations advisor during the period in question.

There has been no expenditure on website development in the past five years.

Advertising & Publicity 2012 – 2016

2012

Company Event/Campaign Total € Bloomfield House Hotel 75 Brindley Advertising* 230,216 Carrigdhoun Newspaper 116 Creative AD Limited 777 Independent Pictures Ltd 16,930 Lyrath Estate Hotel 341 Mallow GAA Club 150 McWilliam Park Hotel 390 Irish Timber Growers Assoc COFORD Tool advice and 215 publications O’Sullivan Consulting Forestry Promotion 1,107 Brindley Advertising Forestry Promotion 3,948 Farm TV Forestry Promotion 1,968 ITGA Forestry Promotion 784 Select Media Forestry Promotion 2,448 Brindley Advertising Forestry Promotion 7,822 ITGA Forestry Promotion 4,815 Crann Forestry Promotion 750 Society of Irish Foresters Forestry Promotion 650 Irish Timber Growers Assoc COFORD Tool advice and 430 publications

472 11 July 2017 Company Event/Campaign Total € Society of Irish Foresters COFORD Tool advice and 450 publications Select Media Ltd COFORD Tool advice and 3,521 publications Government Publications Advertising of Notices and 7,913 Statutory Instruments in Iris Oifigiuil Iris Oifigiuil Revised Rates & Charges 75 Advert Iris Oifigiuil Rates & Charges Advert 31 *Brindley held the contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

2013

Company Event/Campaign Total € Brindley Advertising* 158,688 Carrigdhoun Newspaper 812 Creative AD Limited 689 Science Spin Ltd 369 Crann Forestry Promotion 2,250 Agricultural Advisory Alli- Forestry Promotion 1,107 ance Select Media Forestry Promotion 1,224 Society of Irish Foresters Forestry Promotion 650 ITGA Forestry Promotion 5,599 Farm TV Forestry Promotion 3,739 Emergency Services Irl Forestry Promotion 2,153 Council Review Forestry Promotion 2,153 Graphics & Display Systems COFORD Tool advice and 416 publications Society of Irish Foresters COFORD Tool advice and 450 publications Select Media Ltd COFORD Tool advice and 1,218 publications Forestry Yearbook COFORD Tool advice and 2,436 publications Irish Timber Growers Assoc COFORD Tool advice and 645 publications Government Publications Advertising of Notices and 7,997 Statutory Instruments in Iris Oifigiuil *Brindley held the contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

2014 473 Questions - Written Answers Company Event/Campaign Total € Brindley Advertising 1,634 Farm TV 1,993 Farmers Journal 22,632 Hillgate Publishing 1,353 Inshore Irl Publishing Ltd 308 Media Vest Ireland* 148,444 Spectrum Print Management 492 Steedview Manufacturing 529 Ltd Farm TV Forestry Promotion 1,968 Select Media Forestry Promotion 1,224 Agricultural Advisory Alli- Forestry Promotion 738 ance Irish Timber Growers As- Forestry Promotion 849 sociation Council Review Forestry Promotion 2,153 Emergency Services Ireland Forestry Promotion 2,153 ITGA Forestry Promotion 1,686 Crann Forestry Promotion 750 Forestry Yearbook - ITGA Forestry Promotion 3,247 Society of Irish Foresters Forestry Promotion 700 Ashville Media Group Forestry Promotion 1,722 Irish Timber Growers Assoc COFORD Tool advice and 684 publications Select Media Ltd COFORD Tool advice and 2141 publications Society of Irish Foresters COFORD Tool advice and 450 publications Forestry Yearbook COFORD Tool advice and 1218 publications Government Publications Advertising of Notices and 25,000 Statutory Instruments in Iris Oifigiuil *Mediavest currently holds the central Government contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

2015

Company Event/Campaign Total € Agriland Media Ltd 923 Alex Fernie Audio Ltd 902 Ashville Media Group Ltd 1,169 Clayton Hotel Silver Springs 969 Connemara Coast Hotel 525 Creative Ad Limited 775

474 11 July 2017 Company Event/Campaign Total € Dundrum House Hotel 1,569 Hodson Bay Hotel 450 Hotel Keadeen 1,323 Hotel Kilmore 325 Inshore Irl Publishing Ltd 246 Irish Farm Film Producers 1,661 Irish Grassland Association 500 Knightsbrook Hotel& Golf 850 Res Media Vest Ireland* 176,688 Newpark Hotel 575 Radisson Sas Hotel 1,261 Royal Dublin Society 129 T F Royal Hotel & Theatre 1,141 The Gleneagle Hotel 1,354 Whites Hotel Ltd 570 Society of Irish Foresters Forestry Promotion 700 ITGA Forestry Promotion 6,151 Agricultural Advisory Alli- Forestry Promotion 738 ance Crann Forestry Promotion 2,250 Select Media Forestry Promotion 1,464 Forestry Yearbook COFORD Tool advice and 1,218 publications Irish Timber Growers Assoc COFORD Tool advice and 6,188 publications Select Media Ltd COFORD Tool advice and 2,141 publications Society of Irish Foresters COFORD Tool advice and 450 publications Dingle Peninsula Tourism Harbour Advertising (Din- 300 gle) Government Publications Advertising of Notices and 22,955 Statutory Instruments in Iris Oifigiuil *Mediavest currently holds the central Government contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

2016

Company Event/Campaign Total € Agriland Media Ltd 10,148 Ashville Media Group 1,845 Ltd DOB Media Ltd 2,706

475 Questions - Written Answers Company Event/Campaign Total € Dough Hotels Ltd 830 Farmers Journal 8,982 Hillgate Publishing 1,353 Irish Food Publishers Ltd 9,379 Irish Grassland Associa- 500 tion Irish Horse Review 332 Landmark Media Ltd 3,764 Media Vest Ireland* 139,227 Michael O’Brien Media 800 Ltd Select Media Forestry Promotion 732 ITGA Forestry Promotion 52,547 Crann Forestry Promotion 850 Agricultural Advisory Forestry Promotion 738 Alliance Farm TV Forestry Promotion 30,841 Select Media Ltd COFORD Tool advice 2,141 and publications Irish Timber Growers As- COFORD Tool advice 684 soc and publications Forestry Yearbook COFORD Tool advice 1,218 and publications Society of Irish Foresters COFORD Tool advice 450 and publications Dingle Peninsula Tour- Harbour Advertising 300 ism (Dingle) Government Publications Advertising of Notices 41,402 and Statutory Instruments in Iris Oifigiuil *Mediavest currently holds the central Government contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

2017

Company Event/Campaign Total € Agriland Media Ltd Basic Payment Scheme 3,383 Campaign encouraging farmers to use www.agfood. ie.Backyard Poultry campaign in response to Avian Influenza Outbreak DOB Media Ltd BPS/apply online campaign 2,500

476 11 July 2017 Company Event/Campaign Total € Farmers Journal Basic Payment Scheme 18,708 Campaign encouraging farmers to use www.agfood. ie. Irish Food Publishers Ltd Basic Payment Scheme 13,069 Campaign encouraging farmers to use www.agfood. ie. Irish Horse Review Derogation advert for 160 Equine Competitions Media Vest Ireland* 62,219 Anglo Celt Basic Payment Scheme 706 Campaign encouraging farmers to use www.agfood. ie *Mediavest currently holds the central Government contract for the provision of the majority of advertising needs. Adverts typically included under this contract are afforestation notifications, aquaculture license applications, Department schemes and services.

Media Interview Training and Preparations 2012-2017

Year 2012 to date Workshop Training/ Name of company/ Cost€ Advice provided individual in receipt to staff in relation of payment to Media interview preparation. 2012 Nil 2013 Nil 2014 Nil 2015 Nil 2016 Media Skills Train- Carr Communica- 4,700 ing: tions 2017 Nil

11/07/2017WRNN01700Fur Farming

11/07/2017WRNN01800586. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of animals that have escaped from fur farms here in the past five years. [32699/17]

11/07/2017WRNN01900Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): My Depart- ment is not aware of any animals escaping from mink farms in the past five years.

11/07/2017WRNN02000Organic Farming Scheme

11/07/2017WRNN02100587. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the organic farming scheme will open again for applications for new entrants and for existing producers. [32701/17]

477 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRNN02200Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The new Or- ganic Farming Scheme has proved extremely successful, attracting more new applicants than any scheme before, and encouraging a significant number of Irish farmers to convert to organic farming systems. This is a co-funded scheme, supported jointly through the Rural Develop- ment Programme by the EU and the Irish Exchequer.

At this point in time, the budget allocated to the new scheme in Ireland’s Rural Develop- ment Programme has been fully committed and all targets set for the scheme within the RDP have already been achieved. Any possible re-opening of the scheme could only be considered in the context of the available budget in the overall Rural Development Programme.

11/07/2017WRNN02300GLAS Issues

11/07/2017WRNN02400588. Deputy Tom Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a decision can be made on a review of the findings of a 2015 GLAS inspection in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32783/17]

11/07/2017WRNN02500Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The persons named were approved into GLAS 1 with a contract commencement date of 1 October 2015 and have received a first payment instalment in respect of the 2015 scheme year.

The holding was selected for an on-farm inspection which has been completed.

By letter dated 8 March 2016 the applicants wrote to the Department advising that they no longer wished to participate in the GLAS scheme. In light of this information an inspection outcome of rejected from the scheme was recorded.

11/07/2017WRNN02600Basic Payment Scheme Applications

11/07/2017WRNN02700589. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine if a basic payment scheme application was submitted for 2017 for a folio number (details supplied) in County Donegal; if there are entitlements allocated to this land; if persons claimed in 2017; if so, the number of farmers claiming on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32784/17]

11/07/2017WRNN02800Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The folio named in County Donegal is divided, for 2017 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) purposes, into three land parcels per the Department’s Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS). In the 2017 Basic Payment Scheme, one land parcel is being claimed by two herd owners, the second is being claimed by a single herd owner and the third parcel is not being claimed. BPS Entitlements are not attached to specific land areas.

11/07/2017WRNN02900Tuberculosis Eradication Programme

11/07/2017WRNN03000590. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if herd lesion testing can be facilitated faster than the current turnaround time of ten weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32829/17]

11/07/2017WRNN03100Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Herds containing animals in which tuberculosis is suspected at post-mortem examination are restricted in

478 11 July 2017 accordance with Directive 64/432/EEC which requires that “Appropriate post-mortem, laboratory and epidemiological examinations shall be carried out on the carcass of the suspect animal. The status of the herd will remain suspended until such time as all laboratory examinations have been completed”. These examinations can include culturing of the suspect samples.

In practice, it is not always necessary to proceed to the “culture” stage and, using figures from 2016, a histopathological examination in the laboratory was sufficient to confirm TB in 35% of lesions and the herdowner was informed that his herd remained restricted as required by the Directive. In 15% of submissions, histopathological evidence was sufficient to determine that the suspect lesion clearly was not a tuberculous granuloma and, in these cases, the restriction was lifted and the herd was de-restricted (9-14 days after receipt of the sample in the laboratory). In less straightforward cases, accounting for about 50% of cases, where histo- pathology does not suffice to make a final determination of the TB-status, the samples must be cultured. This culture begins on the day that the histopathological result is available. However, M.bovis is a particularly fastidious and slow growing organism in the laboratory and it can take up to 10 weeks from the time of slaughter of the animal until final culture results are available in conformity with OIE requirements. The culture interval of M Bovis in the National Refer- ence Laboratory compares very favourably with international practices in both the medical and veterinary fields and a negative result is usually available within seven weeks of commencement of culture.

My Department makes every effort to ensure that the culturing process in the laboratory is completed as expeditiously as possible in order to ensure that herds are not restricted for longer than necessary.

The performance of tests which offer a shorter time to results is currently being evaluated by the European Reference Laboratory. Our National Reference Laboratory is contributing to this study.

11/07/2017WRNN03200Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme

11/07/2017WRNN03300591. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will issue a TAMS 2 payment to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32937/17]

11/07/2017WRNN03400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The person named received approval for an application for grant-aid under the Young Farmers’ Capital Investment Scheme of TAMS II. However the applicant has never submitted an application for payment and therefore there is no payment to process until this is complete. The applicant has been advised of the position.

11/07/2017WRNN03500State Aid

11/07/2017WRNN03600592. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine if the existing state aid de minimus rules to provide support to persons up to a maximum amount of at least €15,000 over three fiscal years per person under Regulation (EU) Num- ber 1408/2013 can be fully used up over one fiscal year; if there is an annual ceiling under this regulation; if there is a measure to stop giving aid of up to €15,000 per person in one fiscal year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33071/17]

11/07/2017WRNN03700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Agriculture 479 Questions - Written Answers De Minimis Regulation (EU) No 1408/2013 allows limited amounts of aid to be given for activities related to the primary production of agricultural products (e.g. live animals, meat, fruit, vegetables, etc). It does not apply to the processing and/or marketing of these products.

The individual threshold limit which a single recipient can receive under the Agriculture De Minimis Regulation is €15,000 over any consecutive three year fiscal period. Applicants under any proposed Agriculture De Minimis Scheme may receive an aid amount of €15,000 in one fiscal year.

However, the individual threshold limit shall not be exceeded over any period of three fiscal years e.g. for any new grant of Agricultural De Minimis Aid, the total amount of Agricultural De Minimis Aid granted in the current fiscal year (e.g. 2017) and the two previous years (e.g. 2016 and 2015) must be taken into account.

Ireland’s national threshold limit is set at €66,280,000 over any consecutive three year fiscal period. All Agricultural De Minimis Aid awards must be registered with the State Aid Unit at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The individual and national threshold limits are applicable from 1/1/2014 to 31/12/2020.

Member States are required to monitor the amount of Agricultural De Minimis Aid paid to each recipient under each scheme to ensure that the individual and national thresholds are not breached.

11/07/2017WRNN03800Laboratory Facilities

11/07/2017WRNN03900593. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the position regarding relocating his Department’s labs; and the projected timeframe for completion [33075/17]

11/07/2017WRNN04000Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): The Depart- ment of Agriculture Food and the Marine (DAFM) Laboratories are an integral part of the De- partment, providing critical scientific evidence and expertise (in animal health, food safety and plant sciences) which allows the Department to function effectively as a regulator, to deal with new and emerging risks and to rapidly respond to disease outbreaks and food safety incidents. The laboratories also provide valued services and advisory support to the farming community, the food industry and wider society.

The ambitious targets of the Agri-food industry for growth and development over the next decade, as set out in Food Wise 2025, must be underpinned by robust systems which protect and enhance our reputation as a producer of safe and wholesome food and one of the ways in which we must respond to this challenge is by developing a long-term strategy for the laboratories - building on existing capability and expertise in animal health, food safety and plant sciences, and ensuring we achieve both operational and scientific excellence.

This was the primary reason for tasking a Working Group led by Prof. Alan Reilly to undertake a comprehensive review of the Department’s Laboratories. This review has considered both the central laboratory complex at Backweston and the eight regional laboratories located at Athlone, Cork, Kilkenny, Limerick and Sligo. The Group has presented a report to the Department, which makes recommendations on:

- Oversight and co-ordination of the laboratories activities

- Re-organisation of Divisions and support functions within the Central Laboratory com-

480 11 July 2017 plex

- Options for the future development of the Regional Laboratories – with a view to improving disease investigative and surveillance capability but with the over-riding imperative of maintaining and enhancing services to farmers and

- Human resources management within the laboratories - with a focus on grading structures, career development opportunities and workforce planning

To date no decision has been taken in respect of the options proposed for the Regional Vet- erinary Laboratories (RVLs). My Department has recently completed an initial consultative process with all relevant stakeholders on the Working Group report (including on the options for RVLs). A cost-benefit analysis of the various options proposed will be undertaken shortly. Any decision I make on the RVLs will be informed by the consultative process and the outcome of the cost-benefit analysis.

11/07/2017WRNN04100Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme

11/07/2017WRNN04200594. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Ma- rine the status of the review of the qualifying areas for the areas of natural constraint scheme; when he expects this review to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33083/17]

11/07/2017WRNN04300Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Under the Rural Development Regulation each Member State must designate areas eligible for payments under the Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC) scheme. The ANC scheme replaces the previous Disadvantaged Areas Scheme/Less Favoured Areas Scheme. The designation of eligible areas under these schemes to date has been based on a range of socio-economic factors. From 2018 eligible areas must instead be designated using a set list of bio-physical criteria. In cases where a Member State does not introduce this new system for payment, the old scheme remains in place but payments must phase out on a digressive basis.

The biophysical criteria set out in the legislation to underpin the new system of designation are:

- Low temperature

- Dryness

- Excess soil moisture

- Limited soil drainage

- Unfavourable texture and stoniness

- Shallow rooting depth

- Poor chemical properties

- Steep slope.

My Department has commenced work on this project, and relevant technical experts are currently working on sourcing and analysing the data in relation to the new criteria. Department officials have also been in contact with the Joint Research Centre (JRC) and DG Agri in the EU Commission in relation to technical issues arising. This analysis will identify areas deemed to 481 Questions - Written Answers be facing natural constraints. The analysis will also be subjected to a refinement process.

As part of the discussion on amendments to Regulations at EU level a proposal has been forwarded to extend the 2018 deadline on an optional basis. This proposal is currently being considered through the relevant approval process at EU level, along with a number of other regulatory changes in what is referred to as the omnibus proposal.

11/07/2017WRNN04400Areas of Natural Constraint Scheme Appeals

11/07/2017WRNN04500595. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if there will be an appeals process for persons that are unhappy with the review of the qualifying areas for the areas of natural constraint scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33084/17]

11/07/2017WRNN04600Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Under the Rural Development Regulation each Member State must designate areas eligible for payments under the Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC) scheme. The designation of eligible areas under these schemes to date has been based on a range of socio-economic factors. Under the new designation eligible areas must instead be designated using a set list of bio-physical criteria.

The biophysical criteria set out in the legislation to underpin the new system of designation are:

- Low temperature

- Dryness

- Excess soil moisture

- Limited soil drainage

- Unfavourable texture and stoniness

- Shallow rooting depth

- Poor chemical properties

- Steep slope.

The technical work to underpin this new designation is now underway. While it is not possible to pre-empt the outcome of this work, it is envisaged that there will be an appeals process in place in relation to the redesigned ANC scheme.

11/07/2017WROO00200Teagasc Courses

11/07/2017WROO00300596. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures he will take to reduce the waiting times for the Teagasc distance learning green certificate courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33085/17]

11/07/2017WROO00400Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Teagasc deliver the Green Cert on a full-time, part-time and distance education basis at Teagasc Regional Education Centres and Agricultural Colleges. The scheduling of Green Cert courses is an operational matter for Teagasc. In line with new Dáil procedures, information regarding such matters

482 11 July 2017 can be requested directly from Teagasc using the dedicated email address: oireachtas@teagasc. ie.

I am advised that Teagasc Green Cert enrolments trebled in the period 2014 to 2016 - from 500 in a typical year to over 1,500 - arising from the education requirements of the Young Farm- ers Scheme and National Reserve, which required successful applicants to hold a Green Cert or equivalent in order to qualify for payment.

It was agreed that Teagasc could appoint 70 temporary education officers to rapidly expand the number of available Green Cert places. 7 temporary administrators were also approved to address the huge volume of course administration that arose from the unprecedented demand. The arrangements helped Teagasc enrol 4,500 Green Cert learners since 2014.

As Teagasc continue to experience strong demand for the adult Green Cert (part-time and distance education), a request for 15 new temporary teaching posts was recently approved bringing the total number of sanctioned Green Cert teachers since 2014 to 85. I understand that Teagasc is considering other resource options to help address projected demand on a phased basis to 2019.

11/07/2017WROO00500Agriculture Industry

11/07/2017WROO00600597. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the strategy his Department has to support and promote goat farming; the supports available for goat farming enterprises; his plans for greater funding to support this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33086/17]

11/07/2017WROO00700Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (Deputy Michael Creed): Goat farming serves a small niche market for dairy and meat products. My Department makes available a range of supports to goat farming.

Support is available for organic goat farming under the Organic Farming Scheme under the RDP which is an area based payment. We also have a 100% exchequer funded investment scheme for organic processors which would also include goat farming enterprises.

Goat farming enterprises are also supported under the Organic Capital Investment Scheme which comes under the umbrella of TAMS II.

Support is additionally available under the Animal Welfare Scheme of TAMS II for goat housing and under the Dairy Equipment Scheme of TAMS II for milking equipment for goats.

Furthermore goats are eligible for stocking density purposes under the Areas of Natural Constraints (ANC) scheme.

My Department also provides funding to Teagasc who provide dedicated advice to goat producers throughout Ireland on a range of technical and management matters.

Funding to support the goat sector like all farming sectors is reviewed on an ongoing basis.

11/07/2017WROO00800Fishing Licences

11/07/2017WROO00900598. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding fishing licences; and if he

483 Questions - Written Answers will make a statement on the matter. [32578/17]

11/07/2017WROO01000Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environ- ment (Deputy Seán Kyne): Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is the state agency responsible for the protection, management and conservation of Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources. IFI manages salmon stocks on an individual river basis as each of Ireland’s 147 salmon rivers (including river sections and estuaries) has its own genetically unique stock of salmon.

IFI is supported in its management role by the independent Standing Scientific Committee (SSC), comprising scientists from a range of organisations. Scientific and management assessments of each of the distinct stocks, including the River Shannon, are carried out every year with IFI engaged in an extensive stock monitoring which feeds into the scientific committee’s annual reviews.

The SSC estimates the number of salmon likely to return to each river in the next fishing season based on estimates of salmon runs over the most recent five years. Each river has an individual conservation limit which is essentially the number of salmon required to spawn to maintain a healthy population. If the estimate of returning salmon is above this limit then salmon from that genetically unique river population may be harvested commercially or by rod and line.

No harvestable surplus of salmon has been available on the Shannon since 2007.

The salmon assessment methodologies used in Ireland are considered internationally as best practice, with many other countries moving towards the development of similar scientific assessment models for salmon stock conservation.

The Salmon Hardship Scheme was introduced following a Government decision in 2006 to cease, for conservation reasons, the commercial salmon mixed stock fishery. Under the scheme, fishermen active in the commercial salmon fishery, could opt to voluntarily cease fishing and undertake not to seek a licence in the future.

In excess of €25 million was allocated to the scheme to facilitate payments to fishermen, with a further €5 million provided for community development projects. Payments to individuals were based on verifiable track record and recorded catches in the five years prior to its introduction.

The scheme closed for applications on 31 December 2007 and ceased in 2008. I understand that all funds were expended and there are currently no plans to revisit such a scheme.

11/07/2017WROO01100Fisheries Protection

11/07/2017WROO01200599. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to provide representation for draught net fishermen on the board of IFI. [32598/17]

11/07/2017WROO01300600. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the engagement he has had with draught net fishermen. [32599/17]

11/07/2017WROO01400601. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the engagement the IFI has had with draught net fishermen in the past five years. [32600/17]

11/07/2017WROO01500602. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Communications, Climate 484 11 July 2017 Action and Environment his plans to safeguard the future culture and heritage of draught net fishermen in certain parts of the country. [32601/17]

11/07/2017WROO01600Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environ- ment (Deputy Seán Kyne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 599 to 602, inclusive, together.

Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is the state agency responsible for the protection, management and conservation of Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources. IFI manages salmon stocks on an individual river basis as each of Ireland’s 147 salmon rivers (including river sections and estuaries) has its own genetically unique stock of salmon.

IFI is supported in its management role by the independent Standing Scientific Committee (SSC), comprising scientists from a range of organisations. Scientific and management assessments of each stock are carried out every year with IFI engaged in an extensive stock monitoring which feeds into the scientific committee’s annual reviews.

Over the last number of years officials from my Department and IFI have met with representatives of the draft net fishermen on a number of occasions to address their concerns.

The annual Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations, made under the In- land Fisheries Act 2010, provide for the management of Ireland’s wild salmon and sea trout fisheries by IFI. Specifically, the Regulations provide for the quotas of fish (surplus to the -con servation limits) that can be harvested either commercially or by rod and line from those rivers identified in the Schedule to the Regulations. These Regulations are revised each year taking account of advice from IFI, the Standing Scientific Committee and any submissions received during a 30 day statutory public consultation period.

A copy of the draft regulations is made available on the Department’s website, www.dccae. gov.ie and is open for public inspection at the offices of the Department in Cavan and also at the offices of Inland Fisheries Ireland. Any person may submit observations on the draft regulations at any time during the period of 30 days which normally concludes in early December each year in preparation for the following season.

Following scientific assessment and management advice taking into consideration any observations received, the surplus, if any, available in each river is established for the forthcoming fishing season so that it may be apportioned between anglers and commercial fishermen as regards rivers and estuaries where a commercial fishery exists.

As each stock is assessed annually, the Control of Fishing for Salmon Order is enacted each year and sets out, in line with the conservation imperative, the maximum number of public draft net commercial licences that are available to fishermen, for the forthcoming season in each of the specific Fishery Districts where a commercial fishery exists.

IFI manages salmon stocks diligently on the basis of the established “precautionary principal” and the basis of national management policy is to ensure that all activity, commercial and recreational, is sustainable. Commercial fisheries are only permitted on rivers where a sufficient surplus above that rivers conservation limit, has been advised by the SSC and IFI to support a sustainable fishery. In the case of estuaries, each of the contributing rivers must be above their individual conservation limit before a harvestable fishery is permitted.

Prior to the current formation of IFI there was provision in legislation for the appointment of a representative of the draft net commercial fishermen to the Board of each Regional Fisheries Board. The Regional Boards had between 20 and 22 members. In 2010, all Regional Fisheries Boards and the Central Fisheries Board were abolished and IFI was formed with a Board of just 10 people, including one staff elected representative and the Chief Executive Officer. The other 485 Questions - Written Answers 8 posts are filled by open competition through the Public Appointments Service in accordance with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Guidelines. There are no specific con- stituencies for any of the posts. The appointments to the Board are for terms of 5 years and there are currently no vacancies on the Board of IFI.

11/07/2017WROO02000Broadcasting Sector

11/07/2017WROO02100603. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the details on national sports television arrangement deals (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32081/17]

11/07/2017WROO02200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The sale of the broadcasting rights of sporting events is a matter for the rights holder concerned and any broadcaster that may have an interest in purchasing those rights.

Section 114 (1) of the Broadcasting Act 2009 states the principal objects and associated powers of RTÉ and Section 118 of the Act states the equivalent objects and associated powers of TG4. Section 98 provides that both shall be independent in the pursuance of these objects, subject to the requirements of the Act. The decision to purchase rights would be a matter for the individual broadcasters and I have no role in the matter.

The Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) provides that Member States may designate sporting and cultural events of major importance to society as free-to-air. At a national level, the Broadcasting Act 2009 sets out the statutory process for designating events as free-to-air.

Under the 2009 Act, I, as Minister, am obliged to review the list of designated events every three years. The purpose of the review is to consider the appropriateness of the current list of designated events and to examine whether to add any events of major importance to society.

The events currently designated by Order (S.I. 99/2003 since 2003) are as follows:

Live:

- The Summer Olympics

- The All-Ireland Senior Inter-County Football & Hurling Finals

- Ireland’s home and away qualifying games in the European Football Championship and the FIFA World Cup Tournaments

- Ireland’s games in the European Football Championship Finals Tournament and the FIFA World Cup Finals Tournament

- Ireland’s games in the Rugby World Cup Finals Tournament

- The Irish Grand National and the Irish Derby

- The Nations Cup at the Dublin Horse Show

Deferred:

- Ireland’s games in the Six Nations Rugby Football Championship

I have recently received approval from the European Commission to designate the All Ire-

486 11 July 2017 land Senior Ladies Football and Camogie Finals as events of major importance and a draft order revising the list is currently before the Houses of the Oireachtas for resolution.

The Lisbon Treaty added Sport as an EU competency for cooperation between EU Member States and this is a matter for the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.

11/07/2017WROO02300Broadband Service Provision

11/07/2017WROO02400604. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if there will be no further work carried out on providing broadband to over 542,000 premises during the next 77 weeks until a company (details supplied) has completed the separate contract commitment to provide broadband to 300,000 premises. [32086/17]

11/07/2017WROO02500605. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if the contract of undertaking between a company (details supplied) and the government requires that no further work take place on the NBP until its work connecting the 300,000 premises was completed. [32087/17]

11/07/2017WROO02600606. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the reason his department will not publish target dates for contract signing, work commencement and completion dates for the rollout of broadband to the 542,000 premises identified in the NBP as requiring State support. [32088/17]

11/07/2017WROO02700607. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the ongoing procurement process for the national broadband plan. [32183/17]

11/07/2017WROO02800613. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of homes in the light blue area of the NBP map that have been connected to broadband services in June 2017, by county; and if this number meets the requirements of the government’s agreement with a company (details supplied). [32191/17]

11/07/2017WROO02900Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 604 to 607, inclusive, and 613 together.

The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) will provide high speed broadband access of a minimum of 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 to date approximately 1.4m or 61% of the 2.3m premises in Ireland can get high speed broadband of a minimum of 30 megabits per second and this footprint is expanding.

The focus of the agreement is the delivery by eir of its commitment to rollout a fibre high speed broadband network to over 300,000 premises. The agreement includes quarterly mile- stones to be achieved by eir, which are subject to formal evaluation by my Department. My Department has concluded that eir met the milestone to pass 40,000 premises by the end of April of this year and initial indications are that eir has also met its Quarter 2 target. A formal evaluation of eir’s Quarter 2 performance will be conducted by my Department shortly.

487 Questions - Written Answers The procurement process that is being managed by my Department to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network within the State intervention area is progressing independently of the Commitment Agreement. There is no provision in the agreement that would preclude rollout of a State subsidised network in the NBP intervention area being carried out in parallel with the eir rollout.

The procurement process is being intensively managed, to ensure an outcome that delivers a future-proofed network that serves homes and businesses across Ireland, for at least 25 years. The three bidders have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution. A fibre-to-the-home solution means that householders and businesses may get speeds not just of 30 megabits per second but much higher, potentially up to 1000 megabits per second.

With the finalisation of the map and following extensive dialogue with bidders, the procurement process has progressed to the next stage. The ‘Detailed Solutions’ stage is the last stage of the procurement process before Final Tenders. The timeframe for the procurement continues to be dependent on a range of factors including the complexities that may be encountered by the procurement team and bidders, during the procurement process.

11/07/2017WROO03300Recycling Policy

11/07/2017WROO03400608. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the estimated cost of operating a deposit scheme for drinks bottles and cans. [32184/17]

11/07/2017WROO03500Minister 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).

In July 2014, the then Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government published a Review of the Producer Responsibility Initiative Model in Ireland. The aim of the review was to assess the nature and level of the challenges which are currently facing the existing Producer Responsibility Agreements, as well as the forthcoming challenges that are expected to arise in the management of various waste streams. A stakeholder consultation process was also conducted.

As part of this review, a wider examination of issues within the packaging sphere was undertaken and consideration was given to the introduction of a refundable deposit scheme for recyclables.

The review report did not recommend the introduction of a Deposit and Refund scheme and concluded that to establish such a scheme was inappropriate, in view of the operation of the existing packaging scheme (operated by Repak), and policies concerning household waste collection, plus the high administrative costs of introducing such a system.

Notwithstanding the above, the introduction of such a scheme is currently being considered in Scotland. A report commissioned by Zero Waste Scotland estimates that the cost of operating a deposit and refund scheme there would be in the region of £78 million sterling, including £15 million set-up costs.

11/07/2017WROO03600Electric Vehicle Grants

488 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WROO03700609. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the estimated cost of extending the SEAI electric vehicle grant in each of the years 2018 to 2022. [32185/17]

11/07/2017WROO03800610. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the estimated cost of building additional fast-charging stations for electric vehicles (details supplied). [32187/17]

11/07/2017WROO03900Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 609 and 610 together.

The Electric Vehicles Grant Scheme provides grant aid of up to €5,000 towards the purchase of a new full battery electric vehicle (BEV) or a plugin hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). The scheme, which will be kept under review, is continuing this year and an allocation of €5 million has been provided in my Department’s Vote for this purpose. The grants are in addition to the VRT reliefs of up to €5,000 that also apply to EVs. Budget 2017 extended VRT reliefs on PHEVs to end 2018 and on BEVs to end 2021. No decision has been made yet on grant allocations for the scheme in the coming years.

Since the introduction of the EV Grant Scheme in 2011, the purchase of nearly 2,200 electric vehicles has been supported to date under the scheme to the value of €10.3 million. This year, almost €2.2 million has been spent to the end of June to support the purchase of 456 new electric vehicles. My Department expects a broadly similar number of electric vehicles to be grant aided for the remainder of the year which will show a significant increase on the 638 EVs supported last year and the 555 supported in 2015. The cost of the scheme in future years will be dependent on the uptake of EVs.

To date, fast chargers have been rolled out as part of the wider infrastructure rollout under the ecars programme which also includes standard public chargepoints as well as chargers in domestic and commercial premises. The ESB, who run the ecar programme, has informed my Department that the average cost of installing a fast charge point would be around €48,000. However, cost per unit can vary in price depending on the supplier and functionality of the charge point and the associated works for installing the charge point at a site.

The Deputy may also wish to note that on 31 May this year my colleague the Minster for Transport Tourism and Sport published the National Policy Framework on Alternative Fuels Infrastructure for Transport in Ireland 2017 to 2030. This points out that “there are almost 900 publicly accessible charge points available in Ireland, which for a country of its size puts it among the more comprehensive charge point networks currently in place across Europe. Large car manufacturers are also expected to become involved in the provision of high-powered infrastructure. A number of providers are likely to emerge onto the Irish market in the coming years, providing infrastructure at the higher end of the performance capacity scale, i.e. between 120 kW and 350 kW. These chargers will support quicker charge times and longer travelling ranges depending on the model of car, i.e. more cars will be capable of travelling up to 500 km on one charge.”

11/07/2017WRPP00200Departmental Staff Data

11/07/2017WRPP00300611. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the estimated first and full year cost of hiring five, ten and 15 additional administrative officers within his Department. [32189/17]

11/07/2017WRPP00400Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis 489 Questions - Written Answers Naughten): In the link are the current civil service pay scales which have also been sent by my Department to the Deputy’s Office for his attention.

http://circulars.gov.ie/pdf/circular/per/2017/08.pdf.

11/07/2017WRPP00500Better Energy Communities Programme

11/07/2017WRPP00600612. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount spent on the SEAI better energy communities project in 2015 and 2016 and to date in 2017; the number of persons that participated in this scheme on a yearly basis, by county. [32190/17]

11/07/2017WRPP00700Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Communities (BEC) Scheme on behalf of my Department. The Scheme aims to support and encourage community based partnerships to improve the energy efficiency of homes, businesses and community facilities in a local area. To date the scheme has supported the upgrade of more than 14,000 homes and several hundred shared community facilities, from sports clubs to community centres and childcare facilities.

In 2015, €15 million in grant funding was awarded to 33 projects. The list of successful projects for 2015 is attached.

In 2016, almost €20 million in grant support was awarded under this Scheme to 35 community projects. An additional two projects which sought funding of less than €50,000 were also funded. This provided for energy efficiency upgrades to more than 2,000 homes and 405 community and commercial facilities. The total investment in energy efficiency, including funding from local communities themselves, was almost €48 million, supporting an estimated 700 direct and indirect jobs across the country. There were 63 applications received in total. The full list of successful projects is available on SEAI’s website at: http://www.seai.ie/Grants/ Better_Energy_Communities/BEC-projects-2016-Oct-revision.pdf.

This year, more than €26m in grant funding has been awarded to 44 projects across the country. This funding will provide for energy efficiency upgrades to over 2,000 homes, of which 1,510 are energy poor, and a further 479 community, public and commercial facilities. The projects include a wide range of upgrades to building fabric, heating systems, lighting and solar heating. This grant support will leverage a total investment in energy efficiency of almost €67 million, supporting more than 1,000 jobs in the construction sector across the country. The list of successful projects for 2017 is also attached.

The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members, which can be sent to [email protected] and will be dealt with promptly.

Question No. 613 answered with Question No. 604.

11/07/2017WRPP00900Climate Change Policy

11/07/2017WRPP01000614. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of the national dialogue on climate change. [32192/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01100652. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when the national dialogue on climate change will be opened; and if he will make 490 11 July 2017 a statement on the matter. [32904/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 614 and 652 together.

I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 72 and 473 of 27 June 2017.

I was pleased to announce earlier this year that the Government was moving to establish, on a two-year pilot basis, a National Dialogue on Climate Action. This is in line with the commitment set out in the Programme for a Partnership Government.

The primary objective of the National Dialogue will be to ensure an inclusive process of engagement and consensus building across society towards enabling the transformation to a low carbon and climate-resilient future. To do this, the Dialogue will seek to create awareness, engagement and motivation to act (locally, regionally and nationally) in relation to the challenges presented by climate change and to establish, on a long term basis, appropriate networks for people to meet periodically to consider evidence-based inputs on the economic, social, behavioural, environmental and public aspects of climate and energy policy.

I have also indicated that the National Mitigation Plan, which I expect to publish shortly, will become a living document and in the context of this on-going process, outcomes from the Dialogue will be a key component for consideration in the development of further decarbonisation options.

I am currently finalising, and will shortly announce, the membership of a National Dialogue on Climate Action Advisory Group which I am establishing to provide me with advice in relation to the overall strategy, structure and operation of the National Dialogue.

A key element of the National Dialogue already underway is the Green Schools National Climate Change Action and Awareness Programme which, for 2017, includes the development phase for a Climate Change Ambassadors Programme.

Further action and initiatives under the National Dialogue will be announced in due course.

11/07/2017WRPP01300Broadband Service Provision

11/07/2017WRPP01400615. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the status of plans for a quality broadband service in Derryadd, Kenagh, County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32352/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01500623. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the timeframe for the rollout of the national broadband plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32539/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01600624. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the need to improve broadband telecommunications infrastructure throughout County Cavan; when it is expected that the national broadband plan will be rolled out to benefit areas such as County Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32540/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01700625. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the need to improve broadband telecommunications infrastructure throughout County Monaghan; when it is expected that the national broadband plan will be rolled out to benefit areas such as County Monaghan; and if he will make a 491 Questions - Written Answers statement on the matter. [32541/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01800626. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding broadband roll out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32551/17]

11/07/2017WRPP01900643. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the number of premises, both commercial and households that will be connected to high speed fibre broadband in County Galway in the next 76 weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32802/17]

11/07/2017WRPP02000644. Deputy Hildegarde Naughton asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the number of premises, both commercial and households that will be connected to high speed fibre broadband in south County Mayo in the next 76 weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32803/17]

11/07/2017WRPP02100Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 615, 623 to 626, inclusive, 643 and 644 together.

Through the National Broadband Plan (NBP) the Government has committed to intervening to ensure high speed broadband is available in parts of the country where commercial providers acting alone will not provide this essential service. This commitment to intervene will ensure that no part of Ireland, no household, no school, no business is left behind.

This unequivocal commitment by Government to deliver the NBP has also served as a catalyst for industry in bringing forward investment in new infrastructure in towns, villages and rural areas of Ireland. As of today, approximately 1.4m or 61% of premises in Ireland can get high speed broadband of a minimum of 30 Megabits per second. This footprint is continuing to expand and it is expected to rise to 77% by the end of 2018. For those areas that will not be covered by commercial operators the State has committed to intervene and subsidise a network build.

In April, eir signed a agreement with me committing them to follow through on their commercial plans to provide new high speed broadband infrastructure to 300,000 premises in rural areas. eir has committed to doing this work over a 90 week period with an average of 500 premises passed per day. A copy of the Commitment Agreement is available on my Depart- ment’s website www.dccae.gov.ie. The decision by eir to invest in infrastructure to deploy high speed broadband services to an additional 300,000 premises in rural Ireland was taken by eir on commercial grounds. Neither I, nor my Department, have a statutory authority to direct eir in this regard.

Quarterly updates on progress of the eir 300k rollout will be published on my Departments website. The Q1 figures have been verified by my Department and the eir rollout is in line with the Commitment Agreement.

In April I published an updated High Speed Broadband Map which is available at www. broadband.gov.ie. This map finalises the State Intervention Area for the procurement process and is an important milestone in the procurement process. The Map shows the extent of the State Intervention area and also the areas targeted for commercial services. The Map, which is searchable by address or eircode, has been developed by my Department using extensive information obtained from commercial operators and will be updated to show quarterly progress of the eir rollout.

- The BLUE areas represent those areas where commercial telecommunications providers are either currently delivering or have indicated plans to deliver high speed broadband services, 492 11 July 2017 - The AMBER areas on the High Speed Broadband Map represent the areas that will require State Intervention and are the subject of the current procurement process.

There are approximately 2.3m premises in Ireland, of which approximately 542,000 (23%) premises are located in the Intervention area on the Map. These premises will require State intervention and are the focus for the procurement process. The remaining premises are located in the BLUE areas and will be served by commercial operators. Individuals can themselves check whether their premises is in a BLUE or an AMBER area by accessing the High Speed Broadband Map and entering their Eircode at www.broadband.gov.ie. The position in relation to the areas referred to by the Deputies is set out below.

The map shows that 100% of the townland of Derryad, Co Longford will be part of the State led Intervention under the NBP.

There are c. 42,000 premises in County Cavan, of which c17,000 are located in the Amber area on the Map, and will benefit from the NBP’s State Intervention. The remaining c25,000 premises are located in the commercial BLUE area and will be served by commercial operators. This figure includes c7,000 premises that fall within eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and end 2018 (Light BLUE on map).

There are c.33,000 premises In Co Monaghan, of which c16,000 premises will benefit from the NBP’s State Intervention. The remaining c17,000 premises are located in the commercial BLUE area and will be served by commercial operators. This figure includes c 4,000 premises that fall within eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and end 2018 (Light BLUE on map).

In relation to Co Kerry there are c89,000 premises of which c29,000 premises will benefit from the NBP’s State Intervention. The remaining c60,000 premises are located in the commercial BLUE area and will be served by commercial operators. This figure includes c24,000 premises that fall within eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and end of 2018 (Light BLUE on map).

There are c133,000 premises in Co Galway of which c27,000 fall within eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and the end of 2018 (Light BLUE on map).

In the case of Co Mayo there are c83,000 premises of which c16,000 premises fall within eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and the end of 2018 (Light BLUE on map).

A full set of county statistics are available at www.broadband.gov.ie.

Information on eir’s planned rural deployment is available at http://fibrerollout.ie/eircode- lookup/.

The procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network in the State Intervention area is being intensively managed, to ensure an outcome that delivers a future-proofed network that serves homes and businesses across Ireland, for at least 25 years. The three bidders have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution. A fibre-to-the-home solution means that householders and businesses may get speeds not just of 30 Megabits per second but much higher, potentially up to 1000 Megabits per second.

The timeframe for the procurement continues to be dependent on a range of factors including the complexities that may be encountered by the procurement team and bidders, during the procurement process. The Department will engage with winning bidder(s) on the best rollout 493 Questions - Written Answers strategy, in order to target areas of particularly poor service, business needs and/or high demand.

The rate of demand for data services has increased exponentially in the last four years and this presents a continuing challenge for telecommunication operators, regulators and policy makers both in Ireland and internationally. Recognising this challenge, I specifically included in the Programme for Government a commitment to a Mobile Phone and Broadband Task force. In July 2016, I established the Task Force to identify immediate solutions to broadband and mobile phone coverage deficits and investigate how better services could be provided to consumers, prior to the full build and roll-out of the network planned under the National Broad- band Plan State Intervention. The report of the Task Force was published in December and is available on both Departments’ websites.

In producing this report, the Task Force worked with Departments, local authorities, Com- Reg, State agencies, the telecoms industry and other key stakeholders. The report contains 40 actions that will alleviate some of the telecommunications deficits across Ireland and the implementation programme on mobile phone and broadband access identifies 19 of these actions as areas where immediate and direct action by Departments and State agencies can ensure accelerated benefits to consumers.

In order to maintain momentum created by the Task Force, I established an Implementa- tion Group to drive and monitor the implementation of the actions, bringing together all key stakeholders identified in the Task Force report with responsibility for delivery. This group will be formally reporting every 90 days on progress made on all actions. I published the first such quarterly progress report on 13th June 2017, which is available on my Department’s website at http://www.dccae.gov.ie/documents/Taskforce%20Q1%20Progress%20Report.pdf and which shows that considerable progress has been made, particularly in relation to the implementation of actions identified for Q1 2017.

The work of the Task Force will also assist local authorities in preparing for the roll-out of the new NBP network once contracts are in place.

In addition, following regulations which I signed last year, ComReg recently announced the results of its auction for the 3.6GHz radio spectrum band, which means an 86% increase in spectrum capacity to meet the growing demand for mobile and wireless broadband services across rural and urban areas. The Regulator has awarded 15 year licences for the rights of use in this band which will provide a degree of stability and create future investment certainty. Spec- trum was also awarded in lots covering 9 urban and rural regions across the country.

In my Department’s Estimates for 2017, I have secured an €8 million provision for RTE to allow it to free up the 700 MHz spectrum band. ComReg in turn will make plans to allocate this spectrum to provide for significantly enhanced mobile coverage. The 700 MHz band is particularly suited to rural environments where the signal can travel long distances.

This comprehensive package of initiatives which I have developed and continue to manage will assist in enhancing the quality of mobile phone and data services across Ireland and particularly in rural Ireland.

11/07/2017WRPP02200Fisheries Protection

11/07/2017WRPP02300616. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the conservation limits for each wild Atlantic salmon for each river in the south east river basin, as of January 2017; the rivers which have an identifiable surplus of wild Atlan- tic salmon over the conservation limit; the rivers which are not meeting the conservation limit; 494 11 July 2017 and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32391/17]

11/07/2017WRPP02400617. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the rivers in the south east river basin which are open for salmon and sea trout fishing by means of draft and snap net harvesting as of January 2017; the rivers in the south east river basin which are open for salmon fishing by means of angling harvest; the rivers in the south east river basin which are open for salmon fishing by means of angling, catch and release; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32392/17]

11/07/2017WRPP02500620. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the methodology employed to measure the conservation limits for wild Atlantic salmon on each river in the south east river basin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32396/17]

11/07/2017WRPP02600621. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the types of fish counters for wild Atlantic salmon on each river in the south east river basin; the accuracy of each fish counter; the locations in which fish counters are present; if they are fully operational; the way in which salmon are counted on rivers that may have no operational fish counter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32397/17]

11/07/2017WRPP02700Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environ- ment (Deputy Seán Kyne): I propose to take Questions Nos. 616, 617, 620 and 621 together.

Following the advice of the Standing Scientific Committee for Salmon and the recommendation of management in IFI, the rivers in the South East can be divided into three distinct categories.

The first category is rivers that are open with a surplus of salmon that can be harvested. There are no salmon Rivers in the Wexford or Waterford Fishery Districts that fall into this category. In the Lismore District the Blackwater, Glenshelane and Finisk are the only open rivers with a quota for harvest. The Blackwater is the only river with a commercial quota which is shared with the rod and line quota the full surplus that is available is 5,670 salmon. There was a 5% reserve established which was not allocated. Of the remainder 29%, or 1,562, was allocated to the commercial sector and 71%, or 3,824, to the rod and line. (Angling sector).

The second category is rivers that are open on a catch and release basis where no harvest of fish is permitted. There are no such rivers in the Wexford Fishery District. In the Waterford District there is the Barrow, Nore, Suir and Pollmounty. There is the River Bride in the Lismore District. As a consequence of these rivers being catch and release no commercial quota exists.

The third category is rivers that have poor salmon runs and are closed to salmon fishing. These are, in the Wexford District, the Avoca, the Owenavorragh and the Slaney, in the Wa- terford District, the Owenduff, the Mahon; the Tay, the Colligan and the Corrack and in the Lismore District the Lickey, the Tourig and the Womanagh.

The conservation limit can be defined as the spawning stock level that produces long term average maximum sustainable yield as derived from the adult to adult stock and recruitment relationship. This is generally termed a biological reference point and establishes the specific abundance of fish required to maintain a healthy and sustainable salmon population in a particular river system. The conservation limit is calculated similarly for all of Ireland’s 147 salmon rivers and estuaries based on the wetted area, latitude and other river-specific factors such as the relative proportion of one sea winter grilse salmon (1SW) and multi-sea winter (MSW) salmon in the population, the average weight of these salmon, proportions of male and female salmon and average numbers of eggs per female fish. Comprehensive and extensive step-by-

495 Questions - Written Answers step information on how conservation limits are calculated are contained in the annual Standing Scientific Committee on Salmon (SSCS) report which is attached.

IFI’s fish counter programme operates forty one counters at thirty six counting sites throughout the country. Two types of counters are used to record fish numbers, Vaki counters and Lo- gie counters. All Logie counter sites incorporate video verification in addition to the standard counter device.

In the South East River Basin District, there is one counter operating on the River Slaney. The counter on the Slaney is a Logie fish counter which is a tube fish pass configuration with video recording for verification. The location of the counter at Clohamon weir is approximately 30 miles from where the Slaney enters the sea through Wexford Harbour. The counter provides only a partial count of fish passing up the river as fish can traverse the weir in flood conditions.

The counter is both efficient and accurate in terms of the fish that actually move upstream or downstream through the tube, but a significant proportion of the run by-passes the counter at other points on the weir. To enable an accurate estimate of the number of fish that pass up the river a scientific method of tagging fish and assessing the proportion of these fish that are detected through the counter was undertaken. This enabled IFI to estimate the percentage of fish that (a) travel over the weir and (b) go through the counter and enables the scientists gauge the fish run in the river.

The in-stream structure housing the counter was severely damaged in flooding in January 2016 and IFI assessed all options for relocating the counter. However, an alternative site would require planning so in the interim the existing tube counter was repaired in November 2016 to ensure no further data was lost. The counter has been operational since.

11/07/2017WRPP02900Inland Fisheries Ireland Investigations

11/07/2017WRPP03000618. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the number of times since January 2017 Inland Fisheries Ireland has inspected a privately operated tailrace at Clohamon on the river Slaney; the number of salmon removed from this tailrace during these inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32393/17]

11/07/2017WRPP03100Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environ- ment (Deputy Seán Kyne): Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) staff inspects the area in question on a regular basis as part of fishery protection patrols on the River Slaney. The area is also inspected by environmental staff to gauge the level of fish that can, at times, enter past the grating into the tailrace of a private hydroelectric scheme.

IFI Staff have conducted, with the assistance of the owner of the facility, one significant rescue operation so far this year and on that occasion 20 salmon and 200 sea trout were safely returned back to the main river channel.

11/07/2017WRPP03200Fisheries Protection

11/07/2017WRPP03300619. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the studies which have been carried out by Inland Fisheries Ireland into the mortality and survival rates of wild Atlantic salmon in catch and release angling; the average mortality and survival rates of wild Atlantic salmon caught and released on each river basin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32394/17]

496 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRPP03400Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environ- ment (Deputy Seán Kyne): Staff of Inland Fisheries Ireland and others published a paper in 2015 in the Fisheries Research journal on a study that looked at the survival of wild Atlantic salmon after catch and release in three rivers in Ireland. The study necessitated the capture and tagging of 76 fish over the course of the programme, and from the subsequent recapture it was evident that 98% of the salmon caught by fly fishing had survived while only 55% of the fish caught on a lure survived. From this, it is clear that fly fishing on a catch and release river only adds a small additional mortality threat to the stock, provided the fish are released properly and carefully.

Questions Nos. 620 and 621 answered with Question No. 616.

11/07/2017WRPP03700Waste Management

11/07/2017WRPP03800622. Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Communications, Cli- mate Action and Environment if owners or management companies of apartment blocks are required to provide full waste disposal and recycling services including glass to owners or tenants of the apartments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32425/17]

11/07/2017WRPP03900Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): Under waste management legislation, collectors of household waste are required to provide receptacles for the collection of residual, recyclable and food waste, in line with the requirements of their waste collection permit issued under the Waste Management Act 1996 (No. 10 of 1996), the Waste Management (Collection Permit) Regulations 2007, (S.I. 820 of 2007) as amended, and the European Union (Household Food Waste and Bio-waste) Regula- tions 2015.

The Regional Waste Management Plans 2015-2021 (http://www.epa.ie/waste/policy/regional/) contain a specific action to allocate resources to the monitoring of apartment complexes to improve compliance with segregation of waste prioritising the reduction of contamination. In addition, new template bye-laws developed by the Regional Waste Management Planning Of- fices will, if adopted by the elected members of a council,inter alia, place the onus on management companies to ensure that appropriate receptacles are provided for the proper segregation, storage and collection of household waste, including recyclate and food waste, as appropriate and in line with national requirements.

There is no obligation on collectors of household waste under waste management legislation to provide a collection service for glass or glass bottles. In terms of the recycling of glass, recent data (links provided below) indicate that we are at or above an 80% recycling level. There are over 2,200 bring banks and 100 recycling centres across the country, which support these high recycling levels for glass. Further information is available at the following links:

https://www.repak.ie/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Repak_AR_final_for-web1.pdf.

http://www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/waste/stats/EPA_Progress%20towards%20EU%20targets_ Jan17_web.pdf.

Though not under my remit, I am aware that Guidelines for Planning Authorities on design standards for new apartments were published in December 2015 and address the issue of the storage and collection of waste materials in apartment schemes. Further information is available at the following link:

https://www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/publications/files/apartment_guide- 497 Questions - Written Answers lines_21122015.pdf.

Questions Nos. 623 to 625, inclusive, answered with Question No. 615.

Question No. 626 answered with Question No. 615.

11/07/2017WRQQ00300Living Wage Implementation

11/07/2017WRQQ00400627. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32558/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ00500Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): My Department currently has 24 staff members who earn less than €11.70 gross per hour. The additional cost to my Department of introducing a living wage of €11.70 would be approximately €73,050 per annum.

The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency. The Department will request the relevant bodies to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested in respect of their organisations.

11/07/2017WRQQ00600Telecommunications Services Provision

11/07/2017WRQQ00700628. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the steps he will take to ensure phone and Internet coverage (details supplied) in an area of County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32588/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ00800Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The provision of telecommunications services, including mobile phone and broadband services, is a matter for the service providers concerned which operate in a fully liber- alised market regulated by the independent Regulator of the telecommunications sector, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). I do not have a statutory authority to require commercial companies to roll out services to particular locations.

Any customer across Ireland who experiences service difficulties, including in the Gap of Dunloe, County Kerry, 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 that regard, I specifically included in the Programme for Government a commitment to a Mobile Phone and Broadband Task force. In July 2016, I established the Task Force, to identify immediate solutions to broadband and mobile phone coverage deficits and investigate how better services could be provided to consumers, prior to the full build and roll-out of the network planned under the National Broadband Plan State intervention. The December 2016 report of the Taskforce is available on my Department’s website.

The Task Force worked with Departments, local authorities, ComReg, State agencies, the

498 11 July 2017 telecoms industry and other key stakeholders to produce the report which contains 40 actions to alleviate some of the telecommunications deficits across Ireland. An Implementation Group has been established to drive and monitor implementation of the actions, bringing together all key stakeholders responsible for delivery. On 13 June, I published the first quarterly progress report, which is available on my Department’s website. It shows that considerable progress has been made, particularly on implementation of actions identified for Q1 2017. I intend to publish the second quarterly report shortly.

This work will also assist local authorities in preparing for the roll-out of the new NBP network once contracts are in place.

In addition, following regulations which I signed last year, ComReg’s recent announcement of the results of its auction for the 3.6 GHz radio spectrum band, will mean an 86% increase in spectrum capacity to meet the growing demand for mobile and wireless broadband services across rural and urban areas. The award of 15 year licences for the rights of use in this band will provide stability and create future investment certainty. Spectrum was also awarded in lots covering 9 urban and rural regions across Ireland.

Commercial investment by mobile operators has resulted in improved services, following ComReg’s multi-band spectrum auction in 2012. At least one operator now has in excess of 90% 4G population coverage. However, as mobile services are a radio based technology, services can be affected by topography, quality of handsets and the capacity of the network, as well as by and proximity to mobile telephone antennas.

These initiatives should assist in enhancing the quality of mobile phone and data services, particularly in rural areas.

With regard to broadband services, the Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) will provide 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 to date approximately 1.4 million or 61% of the 2.3 million premises in Ireland can get high speed broadband of a minimum of 30 Megabits per second and this footprint is expanding.

In April, eir signed an agreement with me committing them to follow through on their commercial plans to provide new high speed broadband infrastructure to 300,000 premises in rural areas. eir has committed to doing this work over a 90 week period with an average of 500 premises passed per day. A copy of the Commitment Agreement is available on my Depart- ment’s website www.dccae.gov.ie. The decision by eir to invest in infrastructure to deploy high speed broadband services to an additional 300,000 premises in rural Ireland was taken by eir on commercial grounds. Neither I nor the Department have a statutory authority to direct eir in this regard.

Quarterly updates on progress of the eir 300,000 roll-out will be published on the Depart- ments website. The Q1 figures have been verified by my Department and the eir roll-out is in line with the Commitment Agreement.

- The BLUE areas represent those areas where commercial telecommunications providers are either currently delivering or have indicated plans to deliver high speed broadband services,

499 Questions - Written Answers - The AMBER areas on the High Speed Broadband Map represent the areas that will require State Intervention and are the subject of the current procurement process.

There are 126 premises in the townland of Dunloe Upper, of which 28 premises will benefit from the NBP’s State Intervention. The remaining 98 premises are located in the commercial BLUE area and will be served by commercial operators. This figure includes 68 premises that fall within eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and end 2018 (Light BLUE on map). Information on eir’s planned rural deployment is available at http://fibrerollout.ie/eircode-lookup/.

Individuals can themselves check whether their premises is in a BLUE or an AMBER area by accessing the High Speed Broadband Map and entering their Eircode at www.broadband. gov.ie.

11/07/2017WRQQ00900Waste Management Regulations

11/07/2017WRQQ01000629. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment if he will provide a list of waste management services providers by county, in tabular form; if each service provider provides a brown bin service to all customers; and if not, the date by which this service will be in place. [32627/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ01100635. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the counties that have implemented in full Part II of the European Union (Household Food Waste and Bio-Waste) Regulations 2015, in tabular form. [32633/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ01200636. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment if all households situated in population agglomerations of 1,500 persons are provided with a separate collection service for food waste from households; and if this collection takes place at least as often as the residual waste collection service as required by the European Union (Household Food Waste and Bio-Waste) Regulations 2015. [32634/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ01300637. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the local authority areas that have an authorised facility for the purposes of the authorised treatment process for household food waste as required by the European Union (Household Food Waste and Bio-Waste) Regulations 2015, in tabular form. [32635/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ01400638. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment if food waste arising on producers’ premised source is segregated and kept separate from non-biodegradable materials, other waste and contaminants and collected by an authorised waste collector in all local authority areas as required by the European Union (Household Food Waste and Bio-Waste) Regulations 2015; and if not, the local authority areas in which this requirement is not in place. [32636/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ01500Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 629 and 635 to 638, inclusive, together.

In line with the objectives of the national waste policy, A Resource Opportunity - Waste Management Policy in Ireland , in terms of maximising the resource potential and minimising the disposal of our waste, the European Union (Household Food Waste and Bio-waste) Regula- tions 2015 are designed to promote the segregation and recovery of household food waste. The Regulations impose obligations on both waste collectors and householders.

Under articles 4 and 5 of the Regulations, household waste collectors are required to pro-

500 11 July 2017 vide, or arrange for the provision of, a separate collection service for food waste from households for population agglomerations greater than 500 persons.

The list of waste collection permit holders, including waste management service providers who are obliged to provide a household food waste collection service in accordance with the regulations is available from the website of the National Waste Collection Permit Office - https://www.nwcpo.ie/permitsearch.aspx. Enforcement of the Regulations is a matter for local authorities, and in cases where a collector has failed to provide a food waste collection service in a defined brown bin area, affected householders should contact the local authority concerned, who have significant enforcement powers under the Regulations to secure compliance by both waste collectors and householders.

An objective of the Food Waste Regulations is to control the quality of segregated food waste in order to provide a suitable feed stock for composting and appropriate recovery activities. In order to limit where such waste can be consigned, the legislation requires it to be transferred for the purposes of an authorised treatment process at an authorised facility.

The treatment and management of waste material, including food waste is subject to a registration and permitting system by local authorities or licensing by the Environmental Protec- tion Agency (EPA), as appropriate, and governed by the Waste Management (Facility Permit & Registration) Regulations 2007 or the Waste Management (Licensing) Regulations 2004. For a composting, biogas or similar site to be classed as an authorised facility under the Food Waste Regulations, it must be both authorised for the treatment of food waste and be subject to an EPA licence, waste facility permit or a certificate of registration as appropriate. An inventory of such sites authorised by local authorities per region may be accessed at http://www.epa.ie/waste/ policy/regional/ while details regarding authorised facilities operating under a waste licence are available on the EPA’s website at http://www.epa.ie/terminalfour/waste/.

A food waste collection service is now being provided in every county across all local authority areas. The provision of this service to more remote areas with agglomerations less than 500 persons, where it is technically and environmentally practical to do so, continues to be monitored by my Department, together with the regulatory authorities.

11/07/2017WRQQ01600Waste Management

11/07/2017WRQQ01700630. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment if all households are serviced by more than one waste management service provider. [32628/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ01800Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): Section 33 of the Waste Management Act 1996 provides, inter alia, that each local authority shall collect, or arrange for the collection of, household waste within its functional area. Information on operators authorised to collect household waste in each local authority functional area across the State is held by the National Waste Collection Permit Office who can be contacted at https://www.nwcpo.ie/.

11/07/2017WRQQ01900Illegal Dumping

11/07/2017WRQQ02000631. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the clean-up cost of illegal dumping by county, in tabular form. [32629/17]

501 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRQQ02100632. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the detail of the allocation of the €1.3 million provided for anti-dumping initiatives, by county; and the detail of each of the initiatives undertaken in each county using the allocated budget and the budgetary period the €1.3 million has been allocated for, in tabular form. [32630/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ02200634. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the estimated cost of cleaning up illegal dumping by county, in tabular form. [32632/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ02300Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 631, 632 and 634 together.

Enforcement action in relation to illegal dumping is a matter for the relevant local authority concerned and also the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Environmental En- forcement (OEE), which supervises the environmental protection activities of local authorities. The cost of illegal dumping is not collated by my Department as it includes local authority enforcement, disposal and legal costs and also involves costs for other State agencies such as An Garda Síochána. My role, as Minister, is to provide the legislative and policy framework under which both local authority and EPA enforcement action against illegal dumping is initiated.

My Department encourages a multi-facetted approach to tackling the problem, incorporating enforcement, public awareness and education. As such and in recognition of the impact of illegal dumping on communities across the country, in March of this year, I launched a national Anti-Dumping Initiative. The aim of this initiative is to provide funding for projects tackling illegal dumping including the provision of support for the clean-up, monitoring and surveillance of dumping black-spots. Funding of €650,000 was allocated under phase 1 of the Initiative.

85 projects were approved for funding from every county in the State, out of a total of 111 applications received. Successful applications have included projects that will equip authorities with the latest enforcement technologies including overt and covert surveillance equipment and drone technology to target dumpers. A range of clean-up and restorative projects led by community, environmental and sporting groups have also been approved as set out as follows.

Local Authority € Local Authority: Carlow Allocation:€22,494.80 1. Old Leighlin Dumping Project 2. St. Killian’s Crescent Clean Up3. Other Measures: CCTV and signage Local Authority: Cavan Allocation:€22,750 1. Kilcogy Clean-up2. Cavan Town - Clean-up3. Ballyhaise - Clean-up4. Ballyconnell - Clean-up Local Authority: Clare Allocation: €20,000 1. An improved Rocky Road for Ennis Project Local Authority: Cork City Allocation: €7,500 1. Orchard Court - Clean-up Project Local Authority: Cork County Allocation:€ 17,988.15

502 11 July 2017 Local Authority € 1. Ballincollie Road - Clean-up 2. Bantry Bay Shoreline - Clean-up3. Black- stone Bridge - Clean-up 4. Blackwater Community - Clean-up 5. Carrigduff Mallow - Clean-up 6. Courtstown Little Island - Clean-up 7. Glengarriff Community - Clean-up8. Rathcooney & district - Clean-up9. Rathpeacon Area - Clean-up 10. Other measures: “A local Solution to A local Problem”- anti dumping campaign Local Authority: Dublin City Council Allocation:€ 20,000 1. Combatting Illegal Dumping and promoting responsible waste disposal campaign in the Dorset Street area of Dublin 1 and 7 2. Other measures: Clean up and control using CCTV and Awareness campaign Local Authority: Donegal Allocation:€22,750 1. Inishowen – Aghaglason Gleneely 4 sites - Clean-up 2. Glenties – Glasagh Brinaleck - Clean-up3. Stranolar – Trusk Lough Bog Road - Clean-up4. Letterkenny – Ards Big - Clean-up5. Donegal-Kilcar 2 sites - Clean-up Local Authority: Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Allocation:€10,000 1. Anti-Dumping Initiative for Dune- din Park2. Other measures: CCTV, awareness campaign Local Authority: Fingal Allocation:€20,000 1. Remediation, Enforcement and Prevention of illegal dumping in Gardeners Hill, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin2. Other measures: CCTV, community awareness programme, installation of lighting. Local Authority: Galway Allocation:€22,750 1. Polleeny, Barna2. Station Road, Gort3. Other measures: CCTV, signage. Local Authority: Galway City Allocation:€20,889 1. Clean Up of Ballybane Area Local Authority: Kerry Allocation:€ 23,000 1. Derra Bog2. Ballinagare Bog3. Short Mountain4. Derrymore Beach5. Bawnaglanna6. Woodline7. Killarney National Park8. Reenacal- lee9. Other measures - covert surveillance, media campaign, signage, purchase of trail cameras.

503 Questions - Written Answers Local Authority € Local Authority: Kildare Allocation:€20,000 1. “Clean and Green” Roseberry.2. Other measures: Drone Survey, awareness including App development for SAC, removal of invasive species Local Authority: Kilkenny Allocation:€22,598 1. Kilkenny City- Clean up 2. Gores- bridge- Clean up3. Other measures: Establishing A Zero Tolerance Attitude to Illegal Dumping in Kilkenny campaign Local Authority: Laois Allocation:€20,000 1. Derrybeg Bog, 2. Windsor Bog, 3. Lower Forest Bog Mountmellik4. Everyone deserves a second chance – Bring Bank Initiative at Portlaoise County Hall – Moutrath, Ballinakill, Newtown Doonane5. Other measures: Mobile CCTV, Signage, Development of App for Litter Wardens, Media Campaign, Access barriers Local Authority: Leitrim Allocation:€22,756 1. Corneen Bog, Mohill - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group2. Faulties Bridge Area, Dromod - Adopt a Road/ Bring Bank Group3. Hartley Area, Carrick on Shannon - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group4. St John’s Lough, Ballina- more - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group5. Gulladoo Lake, Carrigallen - Adopt a Road/ Bring Bank Group6. Edenville, Kin- lough - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group7. Glenanniff - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group8. Manorhamilton - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group9. Mill Race River, Drumshanbo - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group10. Sea Road, Tullaghan - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group11. Rossy Area and Kiltubrid - Adopt a Road/ Bring Bank Group12. Drumcong - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group13. Owenbeg River, Manorhamilton - Adopt a Road/Bring Bank Group14. Other measures: Me- dia and on-line anti-dumping campaign Local Authority: Limerick City &County Allocation:€25,000 1. Donnellan’s Field, Limerick City2. Johnsgate Village/Walls of Limerick3. Crossagalla Industrial Estate, Ballysimon Road, Limerick City4. Old Quarry, Fedamore5. Roche’s Road, Rathkeale

504 11 July 2017 Local Authority € Local Authority: Longford Allocation:€20,000 1. Ardnacassagh Anti-Dumping Initia- tive2. Other measures: CCTV, installation of lighting Local Authority: Louth Allocation:€24,739.50 1. Anti-Littering/Dumping Initiative Junction 14 & Dundalk 20172. Waste removal at Kieran’s Bridge, Philipstown, Hackballscross, Dundalk, Co. Louth3. Other measures: CCTV, Signage Local Authority: Mayo Allocation:€20,390 1. Blanemore Forest Archaeological Walk - Clean-up2. Clean Up of Bally- glass Looped Walks Local Authority: Meath Allocation:€20,000 1. Girley Bog Loop walk – anti-dumping and anti-dog fouling initiative2. River Broadmeadow Community Clean-Up3. Bridge of the Boyne (Broadbridge) En- hancement Project4. Other measure: CCTV, installation of barriers, awareness programme Local Authority: Monaghan Allocation:€22,750 1. Muyllaghmatt/Killygoan - Clean- up2. Bree/Ard na Lorgan - Clean-up3. Latton - Clean-up4. Other measures: Fencing, Awareness, Signage CCTV Equip- ment Local Authority: Offaly Allocation:€20,000 1. Toberdaly Townland - Clean-up & CCTV2. Boora - Clean-up & CCTV3. Curralanty - Clean-up & CCTV4. Derry- carney - Clean-up & CCTV5. Springfield Road, Meelaghans, Tullamore - Clean-up & CCTV6. The Derries - Clean-up & CCTV Local Authority: Roscommon Allocation:€22,750 1. Salmon Lake to Kilnacarrow Bridge Nature Trail (Ballyleague)- Clean-up2. Clean Ups with Probation Services3. The Oaks - Major Clean Up4. Frenchpark - Major Clean Up5. Cuilagh- Major Clean Up6. Scramoge - Major Clean Up7. Suck Valley Way & Kilteevan Bog8. Other measures: CCTV installation & Signage Local Authority: Sligo Allocation:€22,750

505 Questions - Written Answers Local Authority € 1. Tullycusheen Bog - Clean up2. Glencarraig Estate - Clean up3. Cloon- coose Bog - Clean up4. Holy Well Road - Clean up5. Other measures: Awareness campaign Local Authority: South Dublin Allocation:€20,000 1. Rossfield Housing Estate - Clean up2. Sean Walsh Park Recycling banks - Clean up3. Piperstown Road- Clean up4. Other measures: provision of footpaths as appropriate, illegal Dumping Signage Local Authority: Tipperary County Allocation:€25,000 1. Carrick River-Walkway - Clean up2. River user community led clean-up programme for the River Suir3. Ne- nagh River Walk-Way - Clean up Local Authority: Waterford County Allocation:€20,000 1. Airport Road and Tramore Back- strand - Clean up2. Boola - Comeragh Mountains - Clean up3. Colligan Woods - Clean up4. Waterford City- IBAL Initiative5. Dungarvan Bay- Clean up6. Lismore Towers & River- walk- Clean up7. Lower Reaches, River Blackwater- Clean up8. Mahon Falls - Comeragh Mountains- Clean up9. Port- law Woods - Clean up Local Authority: Westmeath Allocation:€20,000 1. Clean up of public laneway at the rear of Catherdral View2. Promote Community Involvement in Abbeylands & Ashfield Estates3. Other measures: CCTV, Awareness Programme Local Authority: Wexford Allocation:€24,886 1. Project Spota Dubh – Kilnahue Lane – Gorey 2. Project Spota Dubh – Rail- way Platform Bridgetown3. Project Spota Dubh – Ross Rd BB Enniscorthy 4. Proj- ect Spota Dubh – Spout Rd. Clonroche5. Project Spota Dubh – Wood Rd. Bunclody Local Authority: Wicklow Allocation:€20,000 1. Newtownmountkennedy Springfield Park Regeneration2. Kiltegan and District Anti-Dumping Initiative3. Other measures: Landscaping, Installation of Barriers On foot of this very positive response, I recently launched a second phase of this initiative with a further €650,000 being made available to community groups and other state agencies working in partnership to clean-up and prevent illegal dumping. Phase 2 applications are cur-

506 11 July 2017 rently being assessed by Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authority Steering Committees and the additional projects which have been selected for funding will be announced shortly.

11/07/2017WRQQ02500Illegal Dumping

11/07/2017WRQQ02600633. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the detail of the allocation of the €9 million provided for enforcement against illegal dumping by county, in tabular form. [32631/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ02700Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The quality of Ireland’s environment is essential to the health and well-being of every citizen while industries such as tourism, agriculture and the food and drink sector depend on good quality air, land and water for the quality of their products and services. It makes absolute sense that we protect those resources through effective, proportionate and consistent systems of compliance and regulatory enforcement. Effective enforcement of waste legislation is vital for the credibility of our systems of waste management.

My role, as Minister, is to provide the legislative and policy framework under which both local authority and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforcement action against illegal waste activity is initiated. Notwithstanding this fact, I have made €9.9 million available from the Environment Fund this year to support:

- The recruitment and continued employment of a network of local authority waste enforcement officers under the Local Authority Enforcement Measures Scheme (€7.4 million);

- The work of the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLAs) (€1 million);

- An anti-dumping initiative to support local authorities in targeting high risk or problem areas, developing appropriate enforcement responses and carrying out clean-up operations (€1.3 million);

- Individual Local Authority waste enforcement actions against suspected large scale illegal waste operators (€200,000).

This investment is critical in tackling issues such as illegal dumping in local communities and in providing an enhanced response on the ground to other infractions of the waste code. In that regard, my Department has continued to fund waste enforcement staff under the Local Authority Enforcement Measures Scheme and details of the grant allocated to each Local Au- thority under this scheme is detailed in the following table.

Local Authority Allocation € Local Authority Enforcement Measures Scheme Carlow County Council 165,000 Cavan County Council 278,000 Clare County Council 403,000 Cork City Council 180,700 Cork County Council 455,000 Dublin City Council 982,000 Donegal County Council 202,000 Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council 480,000

507 Questions - Written Answers Local Authority Allocation € Fingal County Council 220,000 Galway County Council 72,000 Galway City Council 50,000 Kerry County Council 68,000 Kildare County Council 121,000 Kilkenny County Council 153,000 Laois County Council 164,000 Leitrim County Council 74,000 Limerick City & County Council 377,000 Longford County Council 200,000 Louth County Council 130,000 Mayo County Council 156,000 Meath County Council 259,000 Monaghan County Council 219,000 Offaly County Council 295,000 Roscommon County Council 136,373 Sligo County Council 176,000 South Dublin County Council 130,000 Tipperary County Council 211,000 Waterford County Council 303,000 Westmeath County Council 175,000 Wexford County Council 236,885 Wicklow County Council 360,000 Total Enforcement Grant: 7,431,958 In addition to this scheme, my Department provides funding of €1 million to support the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLAs) which were established in 2015 on foot of a review of the respective regulatory and enforcement roles of the EPA and local authorities. The review recommended the establishment of three regional lead authorities to drive improved performance, increased coordination and greater consistency in waste enforcement. Cork County Council, Dublin City Council and Leitrim & Donegal County Councils (in a combined bid) were selected as the new Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities for the Southern, Eastern and Midlands, and Connacht /Ulster Regions respectively.

In recognition of the impact of illegal dumping on communities across the country, in March of this year, I launched the 2017 Anti-Dumping Initiative. The aim of this initiative is to provide funding for projects tackling illegal dumping including the provision of support for the clean- up, monitoring and surveillance of dumping blackspots. Funding is contingent on enforcement actions being taken by local authorities with respect to each site identified and on foot of the very positive response to this initiative the scheme has been extended with total funding of €1.3 million now being allocated.

Further funds have also been made available to assist local authorities in pursuing specific large scale and significant waste enforcement actions. This has resulted in the detection and cessation of significant illegal waste activity with important prosecutions being taken through the Courts. Approximately €200,000 has been allocated to support local authorities in this regard to date in 2017 and the provision of further financial assistance will continue to be considered on a case by case basis as the need arises.

508 11 July 2017 Question No. 634 answered with Question No. 631.

Questions Nos. 635 to 638, inclusive, answered with Question No. 629.

11/07/2017WRQQ03300Departmental Advertising Expenditure

11/07/2017WRQQ03400639. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32647/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ03500Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): My Departmental remit includes complex policy areas, oversight of State regulation and service provision across key strategic services such as energy and public service 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, advertising, photography, communications advice, website development and associated media interview training from time to time.

In procuring these services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and the keeping of expenditure to the minimum necessary.

The information requested regarding agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency. I will request the relevant bodies to reply directly to the Deputy with the information sought in respect of their organisation.

The information which the Deputy requested relating to my Department is outlined in tabular format as follows:

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Morrow PR €19,538 €18,318 €28,221 €54,516 €41,546 Provision Communi- of services cations Ltd in relation to outreach in rural communities with respect to low flying geophysi- cal survey and soil geochemi- cal survey.

509 Questions - Written Answers

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 McCon- PR €86,933 - - - - Public nells information Advertising campaign Agency on the Digital Switchover moving from ana- logue TV to Digital TV. Commu- PR - €1,797 - - - Manage- nications ment of Consultants two Public Ireland Informa- tion Meet- ings on new Inland Fisheries Legislation Public Media - - - - €1,890 Certificate Affairs Training for Civil Institute Service of Ireland Press Of- (PRII) ficers Iris Oifigi- Advertising €6,043 €5,374 €4,696 €3,042 €3,087 Statutory uil advertising in relation to the making of Secondary Legislation AEGIS Advertising €6,851 €10,009 - - - Statutory MEDIA advertising IRL) in rela- Brindley tion to the Advertising making of Ltd. Secondary Legislation Mediavest Advertising - €693 €6,712 €1,553 €11,168 Statutory advertising in relation to the making of Secondary Legislation

510 11 July 2017

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Mediavest Advertising € 38,632 € 31,874 € 18,068 € 13,495 € 22,900 Publishing Ltd of notices in local newspapers, informing the public of the Minister’s intention to grant Prospecting and Mining Licences. Mediavest Newspaper - - €4,980 €6,653 - Newspaper Advertising advertisement in relation to the proposed list Designat- ing Events of Major Importance to Society. Brindley Advertising €10,795 €3,779 - - - Notifica- Advertising tion of Change to TV Standards (2012)Call for PSB Charge Submis- sions (2013) Mediavest Advertis- - -- - €11,804 - Advertise- Limited ing/PR ment in all local newspapers re Smoky Coal Ban Brindley Advertising €17,491 - - - - Advertise- Advertising ment in all local newspapers re Smoky Coal Ban

511 Questions - Written Answers

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Brindley Advertising €5,086 €5,086 €5,230 €4,649 €4,731 National Advertis- Press ing 2012. Advertise- Mediavest ments to 2013-2016 publicise the Local Agenda 21/ Local Envi- ronmental Partnership Fund. Anthony Web De- - - €2,324 €2,066 - Design Harris sign work - the Design National Broadband website pages. Mediavest Advertising - - - €4,646 - Newspaper announcement of the Public Consulta- tion on the draft In- tervention Strategy Kieran Photogra- - - €346 - - Photogra- Clancy phy pher at the launch of the High Speed Broadband Map Clevercat Printing - - €2,605 -- - Printed leaflets to issue at the launch of the High Speed Broadband Map Doggett Printing - - - €368 - Printed Group leaflets for the Ploughing Champion- ship event

512 11 July 2017

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Doggett Printing - - - €5765 - Printing of Group Booklets for the Launch of the National Broadband draft In- tervention Strategy in July 2015. Doggett Printing - - - €4314 - Print of Group Booklets for the launch of the National Broadband finalised Inter- vention Strategy - December 2015. Freastal Website €70 - - - - Translation for website Feileastram Website €79 - - - - Translation Teo for website Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Launch of Clarke phy Communi- Photogra- ty Outreach phy Campaign - Digital TV Switchover Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Launch Clarke phy of the Photogra- SMS 112 phy emergency service Jason Photogra- €492 - - -- - Nationwide Clarke phy roll-out of Photogra- high speed phy broadband to second level schools Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Minister Clarke phy Rabbitte Photogra- welcomes phy 23 Digital Outreach Champions

513 Questions - Written Answers

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Maxwell Photogra- €485 - - - Next Photogra- phy Generation phy Broadband Taskforce launch Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Launch Clarke phy of the Photogra- Renewable phy Energy Strategy Report Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Third Clarke phy Central Photogra- & North phy Atlantic Conjugate Margins Conference Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Launch Clarke phy of the Photogra- National phy Broadband Plan Jason Photogra- €492 - - -- - Minister Clarke phy Rabbitte Photogra- visits phy Kippure TV mast for Digital Switchover with media Phocus Photogra- €359 - - - - Minister phy Rabbitte inspects high speed broadband in St. Colman’s School Jason Photogra- €492 - - - - Announce- Clarke phy ment of Photogra- Ireland’s phy Digital Champion Jason Photogra- - €492 - - - Signing Clarke phy of Energy Photogra- MoU with phy Britain Maxwell Photogra- - €499 - - - Launch of Photogra- phy National phy Energy Efficiency Action Plan

514 11 July 2017

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Maxwell Photogra- - €361 - - - Announce- Photogra- phy ment of phy phase II of Schools Broadband in Warren- mount School Maxwell Photogra- - €327 - - - Launch of Photogra- phy the Nation- phy al Digital Strategy Maxwell Photogra- - €137 - - - Appoint- Photogra- phy ment of phy the New Chairman and Com- missioners in Comreg Maxwell Photogra- - - €327 - - Launch Photogra- phy of Energy phy Green Pa- per Hany Photogra- - - €273 - - Announce- Marzouk phy ment of (freelance National photogra- Broadband pher) Plan state intervention Maxwell Photogra- - - €309 - - Launch of Photogra- phy the Trading phy Online Voucher Scheme with Local Enterprise Offices Maxwell Photogra- - - €309 - - Launch of Photogra- phy the report phy of the Internet Content Gover- nance Advisory Group

515 Questions - Written Answers

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 JMAC Photogra- - - €227 - - 100,000th Photogra- phy participant phy receiving digital training under BenefIT scheme – Arranmore Island Maxwell Photogra- - - €499 - - National Photogra- phy Digital phy Strategy Award of Grants to Benefit IIII projects Fennell Photogra- - - €411 - - National Photogra- phy Digital phy Strategy Showcase, Dublin Castle Maxwell Photogra- - - - €533 - Post Office Photogra- phy Network phy Business Devel- opment Group – press event at Rathan- gan Post Office Maxwell Photogra- - - - €447 - National Photogra- phy Broadband phy Plan Maxwell Photogra- - - - €551 - 1000th Photogra- phy Trading phy Online Voucher Maxwell Photogra- - - - €430 - Launch Photogra- phy of Energy phy White paper Maxwell Photogra- - - - - €585 Post Office Photogra- phy Network phy Group Maxwell Photogra- - - - - €717 Hodson photography Bay Hotel phy Athlone Maxwell Photogra- - - - - €602 Digital Photogra- phy Economy phy Report

516 11 July 2017

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Maxwell Photogra- - - - €413 Asthma photography Society phy Doggett Promotion- - - - €1,022 €298 School Group al Material Digital Champion Programme – Bro- chures & Posters Hollywood Promotion- - - - €380 n/a School Industries al Material Digital Champion Programme – Foamex Prop National Promotion- - - - €420 n/a School Adult al Material Digital Literacy Champion Agency Ltd Programme – Plain English New Promotion- - - - €851 n/a School Decade TV al Video Digital and Film Champion Programme – DC Video Tony Har- Promotion- - - - €5,190 €2,597 School ris Design al Material Digital Champion Programme – Logo Design, Backdrops, Leaflets W1 Design Promotion- €7,746 €25,346 €23,732 €4,937 N/A National al Video Digital Strategy Case Stud- ies Abbeyset Promotion- - - - - €2,539 School Print & al Material Digital Design Ltd Champion Programme – Bro- chures, Posters and Certificates

517 Questions - Written Answers

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Cube Dis- Promotion- - - - - €3,086 School plays T/A al Material Digital Jack Restan Champion Displays Programme – Back- drops, BT Young Scientist Stand Seditio Ltd Website - - - €184 - School Develop- Digital ment Champion Programme – Pdf conversion MediaVest Advertising - €2,399 €2,844 - - Benefit Programme – Adver- tising in National Newspaper Irish In- Advertising - - - - €12,300 Promotion dependent of Trad- Newspa- ing Online pers Voucher Scheme Opus Print Advertising - - - - €590 Promotion Ltd. of Trad- ing Online Voucher Scheme Athlone Advertising - - - - €369 Promotion Advertiser of Regional Trading Online Event DC Kava- Advertising - - - €307 €400 Promotion nagh of Trad- ing Online Voucher Scheme W1 Design Video and - - - €13,671 €4,242 Videos and Ltd. Case stud- case studies ies of Trad- ing Online Voucher Scheme for website Doggett Advertising - - - - €55 Promotion Group of Trad- ing Online Voucher Scheme

518 11 July 2017

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Roscom- Advertising - - - - €553 Promotion mon People of Regional Trading Online Event The Con- Advertising - - - - €1,180 Promotion nacht of Regional Tribune Trading Limited Online Event Cawley Advertising - - - - €6,787 Promotion NEA/ of Trad- TBWA ing Online Voucher Scheme Tony Har- Advertising - - - - €3,562 Promotion ris Design of Trad- ing Online Voucher Scheme PHD Radio - - - - €60,426 National Media (Ire- Advertise- radio land) Ltd ment awareness campaign promoting Trading Online Voucher Scheme Mediavest Advertising - - - - €14,280 Advertising Ltd in national newspapers- scoping consultation Tony Har- Website €2041 €742 Website ris Design work Bunnyfoot Website €3765 Website Ltd design Content Website €1140 Web Writer Content Manage- ment Main- tenance Floods Taxi Website €300 Redesign Service Ltd of De- partment website Fusio LTD Website €6795 Change of Department to DCCAE

519 Questions - Written Answers

Company AREA YEAR Purpose of consultancy/campaign 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Irish eGov- Website €719 Redesign ernment of De- Awards and partment Training website Language Website €2533 €4624 Website Communi- work cations Ltd Mac Innes Website €1,793.45 €2,454.69 Photog- Photogra- raphy for phy Website National Website €630.00 Website Adult work Literacy Agency Ltd ( NALA ) Survey Website €400.75 Website Monkey work Visible Website €4,672.77 Website Thread Ltd work

11/07/2017WRQQ03600Climate Change Negotiations

11/07/2017WRQQ03700640. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the position regarding Ireland’s progress on commitments made under the Paris Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32662/17]

11/07/2017WRQQ03800Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I refer to the reply to Question No. 80 of 27 June 2017.

The Paris Agreement, which entered into force in November 2016, aims to limit global average temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with an ambition of 1.5 degrees Celsius. The Agreement is designed to meet this objective through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) submitted by all parties to the agreement. In this regard, the European Union submitted an NDC committing to a reduction of at least 40% in EU-wide emissions by 2030 compared with 1990 levels, which will be met through reductions of 43% in the Emission Trading System (ETS) and 30% in the non-ETS sector compared with 2005 levels.

Ireland will contribute to the Paris Agreement via the NDC tabled by the EU on behalf of its Member States. The specific details of Ireland’s contribution to the overall 30% reduction in the non-ETS sector, as well as the contributions to be made by other Member States, is currently being negotiated between the EU and its Member States in the context of the European Com- mission’s Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR) Proposal which was published in July 2016. Targets have been proposed for Member States based on GDP per capita and the cost-effectiveness of domestic emissions reductions within individual Member States, with the starting point based on average emissions over the period 2016 to 2018. In the case of Ireland a target of 39% has been proposed, which has been adjusted downwards to 30% to reflect the cost-effectiveness of measures within the Irish economy.

The Commission proposal recognises different Member States’ circumstances and the need 520 11 July 2017 to provide flexibility to reduce emissions as cost-effectively as possible in the context of the overall EU target. Ireland has been actively engaged in negotiations in the Council of Minis- ters, and is working to ensure that these core principles are maintained in the final outcome to the negotiations. At the Environment Council meeting of Monday 19 June, my EU counterparts and I reviewed progress to date and emphasised the need to prioritise a successful conclusion to these negotiations which retains a high environmental ambition for the EU, but provides each Member State the capacity to contribute to that ambition in a cost-effective and fair manner.

The incoming Estonian Presidency has indicated a desire to reach agreement in the Council, allowing negotiations with the European Parliament to commence during its term.

11/07/2017WRRR0010011/07/2017WRRR00200Waste Disposal Charges

11/07/2017WRRR00300641. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the charging mechanism waste collectors are allowed to charge households; if waste collectors can now impose pay by weight schemes on persons who have not been paying in this manner up to now; if waste collectors can only introduce such a scheme for these customers from September 2017; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that persons who have not paid by weight up to now are being charged in such a manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32671/17]

11/07/2017WRRR00400Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The charges applied by waste management companies are matters for those companies and their customers, subject to compliance with all applicable environmental and other relevant legislation, including contract and consumer legislation.

In the interest of encouraging further waste prevention, the Government has decided that flat-rate fees for kerbside household waste collection will be phased out over the period autumn 2017 to autumn 2018 as customers contracts come up for renewal, when the necessary regulatory steps are in place.

As has been long-standing practice, a collection service provider may amend a pricing structure or a contract at any time, as long as the amendments are in accordance with all relevant legislation, including contract and consumer legislation. It is worth noting that the measure to phase out flat fees is not ‘new’ for the more than half of kerbside household waste customers who are already on an incentivised pricing plan, i.e., a plan which contains a per lift or weight related fee.

11/07/2017WRRR00500Post Office Network

11/07/2017WRRR00600642. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans and timeframe to implement the report of the post office hub working group; when he expects An Post to present its strategy for the future of the An Post network following its fundamental review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32800/17]

11/07/2017WRRR00700Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): As Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, I have responsibility for the postal sector, including the governance of An Post, to ensure the company is fully compliant with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and the governance functions included in the statutory framework underpinning An Post.

521 Questions - Written Answers Operational matters and the role of developing commercial strategies for the post office network are a matter for the board and the management of An Post and not one in which I, as Minister, have a statutory function. Consequently, measures to maintain, enhance and diversify the post office network are a matter for An Post.

On foot of a reconfiguration of Government Departments in July last year, responsibility for the post office network transferred to the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. That Department published the Final Report of the Post Office Hub Working Group (chaired by Minister Ring) in March in which it was outlined that they are pursing the possible opportunities for services such as community banking and motor tax renewal for the network. Arrangements are in hand to reassign responsibility for the post office network to my Department given my overall responsibility for An Post. The recommendations of the Post Of- fice Hub Working Group will continue to be finalised between both Departments.

It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong, viable company, in a position to provide a high quality, nationwide postal service and that it maintains a nationwide customer- focused network of post offices in the community. The fundamental review of An Post, including the post office network, which will identify the strategic changes and restructuring necessary to maintain the company on a sound financial footing is ongoing. Naturally, the outcome of the review will impact on the extent to which the recommendations contained in the above mentioned Post Office Hub report can be implemented.

While decisions in relation to restructuring of An Post and the operation of the post office network are operational matters for the Board and management of An Post, I am monitoring the position closely and hope that a pragmatic approach which will ensure the long term sustainability of An Post and the post office network can be agreed. Government will be briefed once a definitive strategy has been agreed but until such time it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on this process.

Question No. 643 and 644 answered with Question No. 615.

11/07/2017WRRR01000State Properties

11/07/2017WRRR01100645. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the steps his Department is taking to increase efficiency in public sector buildings; the funding he is dedicating to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32897/17]

11/07/2017WRRR01200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): Ireland has a national energy efficiency target of 20% by 2020. The public sector with a critical leadership role to play has a more ambitious 33% energy efficiency target in the same period. Very significant public sector efficiency gains have already been made with a 21% improvement in energy efficiency achieved by the end of 2015. This equates to €154 million in avoided energy spend and 548,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions mitigated by the public sector in 2015 alone.

The first Public Sector Energy Efficiency Strategy was developed by my Department and published on my Departments website in January of this year. It introduces new structures and enhanced measures to support the public sector achieve the 33% target, including:

- A new governance structure to ensure leadership on energy efficiency in the public sector, with Energy Performance Officers (EPOs) at a senior level in Government departments taking responsibility for the management of energy efficiency outcomes in their group of public sector bodies. 522 11 July 2017 - A process supported by SEAI and OPW to facilitate public sector bodies and EPOs overseeing their energy management and performance to develop and progress a central project pipeline to achieve further energy efficiencies;

- A provision of €3 million in 2017 from my Department to support SEAI and OPW in pi- loting the delivery of renovation projects to central government buildings to deliver enhanced energy efficiency.

- Clarity on the retention of savings achieved by public sector bodies from energy efficiency measures they successfully implement.

Besides the existing supports already available to the public sector through the SEAI’s Pub- lic Sector Programme and the OPW’s Optimising Power at Work initiative, €2 million in funding has been allocated this year to a pilot programme between the SEAI and Department of Education and Skills, to fund replicable, pathfinder deep renovation projects in schools. This will involve the delivery of advice and capital retrofits. Outcomes from the initial schools will inform wider implementation in the school sector.

11/07/2017WRRR01300Electricity Transmission Network

11/07/2017WRRR01400646. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has considered applying to the European Fund for Strategic Investment for funding to provide under ground cable; his plans to advance same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32898/17]

11/07/2017WRRR01500647. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if his attention has been drawn to the recent successful grant by the European Fund for Strategic Investment to a Swedish network expansion plan which involves the undergrounding of electricity transmission; his views on whether this would be a suitable funding stream for the North-South interconnector; if so, the reasoning behind his view; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32899/17]

11/07/2017WRRR01600Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 646 and 647 together.

EirGrid is the designated Transmission System Operator and its role includes the operation, maintenance and development of the electricity transmission network in Ireland. As detailed in the 2012 Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure, the Government does not seek to direct EirGrid in the development of energy infrastructure to particular sites or routes or technologies. EirGrid has been successful in accessing significant financial support for major strategic projects from EU sources and will continue to explore such options.

In relation to the North South Interconnector Project, EirGrid successfully applied to the European Commission for grant aid to support the planning process. The grants were received under the Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) scheme. They were provided to part fund the initial feasibility studies and studies required to support the application for planning consent.

ESB, in their role as Transmission Asset Owner in Ireland, must fund the construction of the section of the Interconnector located in Ireland. ESB funds capital expenditure for network infrastructure from a variety of sources including the bond markets and the European Invest- ment Bank. The European Investment Bank is also a joint sponsor (together with the European 523 Questions - Written Answers Commission) of the European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) an initiative to mobilise private investment in projects.

In the case of the North South interconnector, studies completed to date show that undergrounding the North South Interconnector would cost more and deliver significantly less from a technical point of view than the proposed overhead option. In order to provide further clarity on these aspects, a study to update an independent 2012 study on the technical feasibility and cost of undergrounding the North-South Interconnector is being undertaken.

11/07/2017WRRR01800Departmental Reports

11/07/2017WRRR01900648. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the implementation status of each of the 19 actions identified for immediate action under the mobile phone task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32900/17]

11/07/2017WRRR02000Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The report of the Taskforce was published in December last and is available on my Department’s website at www.dccae.gov.ie Each action contained in the Taskforce report and the associated Implementation Programme on Mobile Phone and Broadband Access has its own timeframe for delivery.

I established an Implementation Group to drive and monitor implementation of the actions, bringing together all key stakeholders responsible for delivery. On 13 June, I published the first quarterly progress report, which is also available on my Department’s website. It shows that considerable progress has been made, particularly on implementation of actions identified for Q1 2017. I intend to publish the second quarterly report soon. Each progress report will contain formal updates on all relevant actions due that quarter, including the 19 priority actions.

11/07/2017WRRR02100Post Office Network

11/07/2017WRRR02200649. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans for the future of the An Post network. [32901/17]

11/07/2017WRRR02300Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): As Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, I have responsibility for the postal sector, including the governance of An Post, to ensure the company is fully compliant with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and the governance functions included in the statutory framework underpinning An Post.

Operational matters and the role of developing commercial strategies for the post office network are a matter for the board and the management of An Post and not one in which I, as Minister, have a statutory function. Consequently, measures to maintain, enhance and diversify the post office network are a matter for An Post.

It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong, viable company, in a position to provide a high quality, nationwide postal service and that it maintains a nationwide customer-focused network of post offices in the community. The Deputy will be aware that a fundamental review of An Post, including the post office network, which will identify the strategic changes and restructuring necessary to maintain the company on a sound financial footing is ongoing.

While decisions in relation to restructuring of An Post and the operation of the post office network are operational matters for the Board and management of An Post, I am monitoring the 524 11 July 2017 position closely and hope that a pragmatic approach which will ensure the long term sustainability of An Post and the post office network can be agreed. Government will be briefed once a definitive strategy has been agreed but until such time it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on this process.

11/07/2017WRRR02400National Mitigation Plan

11/07/2017WRRR02500650. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans on having a debate in Dáil Éireann on the national mitigation plan. [32902/17]

11/07/2017WRRR02600651. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when he plans on publishing the national mitigation plan. [32903/17]

11/07/2017WRRR02700Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 650 and 651 together.

I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 58, 68, 69 and 77 of 27 June 2017.

The objective of Ireland’s first statutory National Mitigation Plan is to set out what Ireland is doing, and is planning to do, to further the national transition objective as set out in the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act, 2015.

The National Mitigation Plan has been prepared having regard to the provisions set out in the 2015 Act in close collaboration with all relevant Government Departments and, in particular, with the Departments of Transport, Tourism and Sport; Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government; and Agriculture, Food and the Marine. As well as being supported by a range of technical, economic and environmental inputs, the National Mitigation Plan has also been informed by the submissions received during a public consultation that took place in March and April 2017.

In addition, I invited the Climate Change Advisory Council, following my publication of the draft National Mitigation Plan, to engage directly with me and with other relevant Govern- ment Ministers with a view to providing its recommendations to feed into the preparation of the final Plan. All input received from the Advisory Council has being considered in finalising the National Mitigation Plan.

I am pleased to confirm that the Government has, at its meeting on 27 June 2017, approved the National Mitigation Plan for publication. I am looking forward to publishing the Plan and formally laying it before each House of the Oireachtas very shortly.

In addition to setting out the full range of measures that the Government has already implemented, or is considering, to reduce Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions, the Plan will include over 100 individual actions to be implemented across Government in order to advance the national transition agenda. These actions are the individual building blocks that will enable the Government and wider society to implement deeper reductions in emissions in the years ahead. This will be an ongoing process aimed at incremental and permanent decarbonisation.

The 2015 Act provides that relevant Ministers deliver an Annual Transition Statement to each House. The first such Statement was delivered last December and I intend that the 2017 Statement be delivered shortly following the presentation of Budget 2018. I also intend that the Annual Transition Statement will incorporate an annual progress report on the implementation of the National Mitigation Plan. In this way, each Minister with a role in the National Mitiga-

525 Questions - Written Answers tion Plan will be accountable to the Oireachtas for reporting on progress within their respective sector.

I must continue to point out that the first National Mitigation Plan is a work in progress, reflecting the reality of where we are in our decarbonisation transition having regard to a number of factors including curtailed public and private investment over the course of recent years. The first Plan will not provide a complete roadmap to achieve the national transition objective to 2050, but it will begin the process of development of medium- to long-term options to ensure that we are well positioned to take the necessary actions in the next and future decades. The Plan will become a living document accessible on my Department’s website, and will be updated on an on-going basis as analysis, dialogue and technological innovation generate further cost-effective sectoral mitigation options.

Question No. 652 answered with Question No. 614.

11/07/2017WRRR03000EU Directives

11/07/2017WRRR03100653. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plan to control and reduce the amount of packaging by suppliers and manufacturers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32946/17]

11/07/2017WRRR03200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): As Minister, I am responsible for the administration of the EU Packaging Direc- tive, which is transposed in Ireland by the European Union (Packaging) Regulations 2014.

Under the Regulations, at least 60% of packaging waste must be recovered and 55% must be recycled. The most recent Waste Packaging Statistics for Ireland, published by the EPA in May 2016, show that Ireland has met and exceeded the overall packaging waste recovery rate and the recycling rate targets since they came into force. Our recovery rate has gone from 70% in 2009 to 88% in 2013; and our recycling rate has gone from 65% in 2009 to 70% in 2013. Specific material streams for 2013 are shown in the following table:

Material EU Recycling rate target 2013 recycling rate Ireland Glass 60 % by weight 80% Plastic 22.5% by weight, counting 40% exclusively material that is recycled back into plastics Paper & Board 60% by weight 79% Metals 50% by weight 79% Wood 15% by weight 82% Repak is the approved producer responsibility compliance scheme for packaging in Ireland and it is tasked with meeting recovery and recycling targets established under the EU Packaging Directive. Repak members pay fees based on the amount of packaging they place on the market and this incentivises them to reduce packaging.

A lot of work has been done by Repak members to prevent and minimise the amount of packaging they require. With the assistance of the EPA, Repak’s Prevent and Save initiative funded under the National Waste Prevention Programme, has worked with Irish business to reduce packaging and to promote packaging improvements across industry. Under the initiative, specialist packaging technologists look for ways to optimise the packaging used and to minimise any resulting packaging waste. Further information can be found on www.repak.ie/

526 11 July 2017 preventandsave.

11/07/2017WRRR03300Electric Vehicle Grants

11/07/2017WRRR03400654. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the cost to increase the grant for electric vehicles in each of the band amounts by €1,000, €2,000 and €3,000, in tabular form. [32991/17]

11/07/2017WRRR03500Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 497 of 4 July 2017.

That reply stated that 638 Electric Vehicles (EVs) were supported under the EV Grant Scheme in 2016. On that basis, it is estimated that increasing each grant by €1,000 per vehicle, for the same number of vehicles, would cost an extra €638,000 while increasing each grant by €2,000 would cost an additional €1.276 million. Increasing each grant by €3,000 would add an estimated €1.914 million to the total spend under the scheme.

Since the beginning of 2017, almost €2.2 million has been spent to support the purchase of 456 new electric vehicles, and my Department expects a similar number of EVs to be grant aided for the remainder of this year. Therefore, using an estimate of 900 EVs supported for the full year at a cost of 4.3 million, the three scenarios would add €0.9 million, €1.8 million and €2.7 million, respectively to the cost of the scheme.

The projected cost of the three scenarios outlined in 2016 and 2017 are set out in the following table.

Year No. of EVs Amount in Estimated Estimated Estimated supported Grant Aid total cost of total cost of total cost of paid €1000 extra €2000 extra €3000 extra grant aid per grant aid per grant aid per EV EV EV 2016 638 (actual) €3,038,800 €3,676,800 €4,314,800 €4,952,800 (actual) 2017 900 (pro- €4,300,000 €5,200,000 €6,100,000 €7,000,000 jected) (projected)

11/07/2017WRRR03600Waste Disposal Charges

11/07/2017WRRR03700655. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the cost to his Department to apply a waiver scheme for household waste collection to those households in categories (details supplied), in tabular form. [32992/17]

11/07/2017WRRR03800Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): The specific cost estimates sought by the Deputy are not held by my Department.

An annual support of €75 will be introduced for persons with lifelong or long-term medical incontinence. This will help people meet the average annual cost of disposal of incontinence products. The details and arrangements of this support will be finalised later this year, after further consultation with the stakeholder groups. In addition, I am establishing a pricing monitoring function that will provide monthly reports on pricing developments and I am also asking the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to report on the operation of the household waste collection market in order to inform the future development of national waste manage- 527 Questions - Written Answers ment policy before year end.

11/07/2017WRSS00200National Broadband Plan Implementation

11/07/2017WRSS00300656. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Ac- tion and Environment the reason a school (details supplied) has not been included in the fibre roll-out plan in view of the fact that the old abandoned school house in the village which closed 30 years ago has been included; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33039/17]

11/07/2017WRSS00400Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naugh- ten): The Government’s National Broadband Plan will provide 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 to date approximately 1.4m or 61% of the 2.3m premises in Ireland can get high speed broadband of a minimum of 30 Megabits per second and this footprint is expanding.

In April, eir signed a agreement with me committing them to follow through on their commercial plans to provide new high speed broadband infrastructure to 300,000 premises in rural areas. eir has committed to doing this work over a 90 week period with an average of 500 premises passed per day. A copy of the Commitment Agreement is available on my Depart- ment’s website www.dccae.gov.ie. The decision by eir to invest in infrastructure to deploy high speed broadband services to an additional 300,000 premises in rural Ireland was taken by eir on commercial grounds. Neither I nor the Department have a statutory authority to direct eir in this regard.

Quarterly updates on progress of the eir 300k roll-out will be published on my Departments website. The Q1 figures have been verified by my Department and the eir roll-out is in line with the Commitment Agreement.

- The BLUE areas represent those areas where commercial telecommunications providers are either currently delivering or have indicated plans to deliver high speed broadband services,

- The AMBER areas on the High Speed Broadband Map represent the areas that will require State Intervention and are the subject of the current procurement process.

Scoil Iosagain Primary School in Upperchurch, Co. Tipperary is within an AMBER area and will be part of the State led Intervention under the NBP. Specific premises information can be obtained by accessing the High Speed Broadband Map and entering the premises Eircode at www.broadband.gov.ie.

My Department is in a formal procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network within the State Intervention Area. The State Intervention network will be a wholesale network and retail service providers will be able to use the network to provide enhanced broadband services to their customers.

528 11 July 2017 solution. A fibre-to-the-home solution means that householders and businesses may get speeds not just of 30 Megabits per second but much higher, potentially up to 1000 Megabits per second.

With the finalisation of the map and following extensive dialogue with bidders, the procurement is progressing to the next stage. On 20 June 2017 my Department wrote to the three bidders in the NBP procurement process inviting them to submit their “Detailed Solutions” by 26 September 2017. The ‘Detailed Solutions’ stage is the last stage of the procurement process before Final Tenders..

The timeframe for the procurement continues to be dependent on a range of factors including the complexities that may be encountered by the procurement team and bidders, during the procurement process. During the Department’s extensive stakeholder consultations in 2015, telecommunications service providers indicated a 3-5 year timeline to roll out a network of the scale envisaged under the NBP, once contracts are in place.

The Department will engage with winning bidder(s) on the best roll-out strategy, in order to target areas of particularly poor service, business needs and/or high demand.

The rate of demand for data services has increased exponentially in the last four years and this presents a continuing challenge for telecommunication operators, regulators and policy makers both in Ireland and internationally. Recognising this challenge, I specifically included in the Programme for Government a commitment to a Mobile Phone and Broadband Task force. In July 2016, I established the Task Force together with Minister Humphreys to identify immediate solutions to broadband and mobile phone coverage deficits and investigate how better services could be provided to consumers, prior to the full build and roll-out of the network planned under the National Broadband Plan State intervention. The report of the Task Force was published in December and is available on my Department’s websites.

In order to maintain momentum created by the Task Force, I established an Implementa- tion Group to drive and monitor the implementation of the actions, bringing together all key stakeholders identified in the Task Force report with responsibility for delivery. This group will be formally reporting every 90 days on progress made on all actions. I published the first such quarterly progress report on 13 June 2017, which is available on my Department’s website at www.dccae.gov.ie/documents/Taskforce%20Q1%20Progress%20Report.pdf and which shows that considerable progress has been made, particularly in relation to the implementation of actions identified for Q1 2017.

The work of the Task Force will also assist local authorities in preparing for the roll-out of the new NBP network once contracts are in place.

529 Questions - Written Answers In my Department’s Estimates for 2017, I have secured an €8 million provision for RTE to allow it to free up the 700 MHz spectrum band. ComReg in turn will make plans to allocate this spectrum to provide for significantly enhanced mobile coverage. The 700 MHz band is particularly suited to rural environments where the signal can travel long distances.

These initiatives should assist in enhancing the quality of mobile phone and data services across Ireland and particularly in rural Ireland.

11/07/2017WRSS00500National Broadband Plan Implementation

11/07/2017WRSS00600657. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when a person (details supplied) can expect to receive a broadband upgrade in view of the fact that the quality of service and the current connections speeds are not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33051/17]

11/07/2017WRSS00700658. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when a person (details supplied) can expect to receive a broadband upgrade, in view of the fact that the quality of service and the current connections speeds are not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33052/17]

11/07/2017WRSS00800659. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when a person (details supplied) can expect to receive a broadband upgrade in view of the fact that the quality of service and the current connections speeds are not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33053/17]

11/07/2017WRSS00900660. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when persons (details supplied) can expect to receive a broadband upgrade, in view of the fact that the quality of service and the current connections speeds are not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33054/17]

11/07/2017WRSS01000661. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when persons (details supplied) can expect to receive a broadband upgrade, in view of the fact that the quality of service and the current connections speeds are not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33055/17]

11/07/2017WRSS01100662. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when persons (details supplied) can expect to receive a broadband upgrade, in view of the fact that the quality of service and the current connections speeds are not fit for purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33056/17]

11/07/2017WRSS01200Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): I propose to take Questions Nos. 657 to 662, inclusive, together.

The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to deliver high speed broadband services to every city, town, village and individual premises in Ireland. The Programme for Government commits to the delivery of the NBP as a matter of priority. This is being achieved through a combination of commercial investment by the telecommunications sector and a State intervention in those areas where commercial investment has not been fully demonstrated.

The National Broadband Plan will provide 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 to date approximately 1.4m or 61% of the 2.3m premises in Ireland can get high speed broadband of a minimum of 30 Mega-

530 11 July 2017 bits per second and this footprint is expanding.

Quarterly updates on progress of the eir 300k roll-out will be published on the Departments website. The Q1 figures have been verified by my Department and the eir roll-out is in line with the Commitment Agreement.

- The BLUE areas represent those areas where commercial telecommunications providers are either currently delivering or have indicated plans to deliver high speed broadband services,

- The AMBER areas on the High Speed Broadband Map represent the areas that will require State Intervention and are the subject of the current procurement process.

There are over 89,500 premises in County Kildare of which c.13,400 or 15% fall within an AMBER area and will be part of the State led Intervention under the NBP. The remaining 85% fall within a BLUE area and will be covered by commercial operators; this includes c.9,100 premises that form part of eir’s plans to deliver rural high speed broadband between now and end 2018 (Light BLUE on map). Information on eir’s planned rural deployment is available at http://fibrerollout.ie/eircode-lookup/. A breakdown of the townland areas the Deputy refers to are included in the table. Specific premises information can be obtained by accessing the High Speed Broadband Map and entering the premises Eircode at www.broadband.gov.ie

County Townland AMBER Prem- BLUE Prem- LIGHT BLUE Total Number ises within the ises covered Premises in the of premises in NBP interven- by commercial planned rural townland tion area operators deployment Kildare Ballycaghan 1 1 48 50 Kildare Ballyoulster 2 88 0 90 Kildare Barreen 9 0 0 9 Kildare Cappagh 57 0 7 64 Kildare Donaghcumper 17 760 0 777 Kildare Killbrook 17 0 25 42 Kildare Killeenlea 7 0 17 24 Kildare Kilmore (Ed 44 0 3 47 Cadamstown) Kildare Kilmore (Ed 13 0 5 18 Carbury) Kildare Knockanally 40 0 0 40 Kildare Newtown (Ed 67 183 0 250 Donaghcumper)

531 Questions - Written Answers

Kildare Turnings 0 0 7 7 Kildare Turnings Lower 2 6 29 37 Kildare Turnings Upper 12 0 34 46 My Department is in a formal procurement process to select a company or companies who will roll-out a new high speed broadband network within the State Intervention Area. The State Intervention network will be a wholesale network and retail service providers will be able to use the network to provide enhanced broadband services to their customers.

The procurement process is being intensively managed, to ensure an outcome that delivers a future-proofed network that serves homes and businesses across Ireland, for at least 25 years. The three bidders have indicated that they are proposing a predominantly fibre-to-the-home solution. A fibre-to-the-home solution means that householders and businesses may get speeds not just of 30 Megabits per second but much higher, potentially up to 1000 Megabits per second.

The timeframe for the procurement continues to be dependent on a range of factors including the complexities that may be encountered by the procurement team and bidders, during the procurement process. The Department will engage with winning bidder(s) on the best roll-out strategy, in order to target areas of particularly poor service, business needs and/or high demand.

The rate of demand for data services has increased exponentially in the last four years and this presents a continuing challenge for telecommunication operators, regulators and policy makers both in Ireland and internationally. Recognising this challenge, I specifically included in the Programme for Government a commitment to a Mobile Phone and Broadband Task force. In July 2016, I established the Task Force to identify immediate solutions to broadband and mobile phone coverage deficits and investigate how better services could be provided to consumers, prior to the full build and roll-out of the network planned under the National Broadband Plan State intervention. The report of the Task Force was published in December and is available on my Department’s website.

In order to maintain momentum created by the Task Force, I established an Implementa- tion Group to drive and monitor the implementation of the actions, bringing together all key stakeholders identified in the Task Force report with responsibility for delivery. This group will be formally reporting every 90 days on progress made on all actions. I published the first such quarterly progress report on 13 June 2017, which is available on my Department’s website at www.dccae.gov.ie/documents/Taskforce%20Q1%20Progress%20Report.pdf and which shows

532 11 July 2017 that considerable progress has been made, particularly in relation to the implementation of actions identified for Q1 2017.

The work of the Task Force will also assist local authorities in preparing for the roll-out of the new NBP network once contracts are in place.

These initiatives should assist in enhancing the quality of mobile phone and data services across Ireland and particularly in rural Ireland.

11/07/2017WRSS01800National Transfrontier Shipments Office

11/07/2017WRSS01900663. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the position regarding the National Trans Frontier Shipments Office investigation regarding a shipment that was part returned to a port of origin here from Holland in 2017 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33072/17]

11/07/2017WRSS02000Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment (Deputy Denis Naughten): On foot of the repatriation of a number of containers from Rotterdam, the National Transfrontier Shipments Office (NTFSO) instructed the waste broker who organised these exports to arrange for each shipping container to be returned to the waste facility from where it originated and has carried out inspections of these facilities. The NTFSO oversaw the return, off-loading, breaking open of each bale and reprocessing of the material from all shipping containers at the sites of origin. All wastes have at this point been reprocessed at the respective material recovery facility. The NTFSO has also engaged with the waste broker with a view to improving the broker’s inspection and monitoring procedures in order to reduce the risk of repeated incidents in the future.

The NTFSO in Dublin City Council is responsible for the enforcement of the Waste Man- agement (Shipments of Waste) Regulations, 2007. As Minister, I am precluded under Section 60(3) of the Waste Management Act 1996 from exercising any power or control in relation to the performance, in specific cases, by a local authority of their statutory functions under the Act.

11/07/2017WRSS02100Road Traffic Offences Data

11/07/2017WRSS02200664. Deputy Jim O’Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the Government’s decision to establish a master licence record for road traffic offences has progressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32111/17]

11/07/2017WRSS02300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Master Licence Record (MLR) system, which will link vehicles with drivers on the National Vehicle and Driver 533 Questions - Written Answers File (NVDF), is envisaged as a key element to deliver on a system to ensure all offences are successfully endorsed on driving licences. The MLR, however, will not cater for situations where the offender has no direct association with the vehicle. The project is progressing and in order to mitigate any legislative and administrative problems, the project team has engaged with the Office of the Attorney General, the Data Protection Commissioner’s Office, the Gardaí and other key stakeholders to finalise the requirements.

11/07/2017WRSS02400Road Tolls

11/07/2017WRSS02500665. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the estimated first and full year cost of extending toll waivers to electric and hybrid vehicles. [32188/17]

11/07/2017WRSS02600Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I and my Department are considering a range of policy options to encourage the use of electric and hybrid vehicles of which extending toll waivers to such vehicles is one. However, the cost implications would have to be considered particularly in the context of the potential impact on long term PPP contracts.

The Deputy may be aware that my Department and the Department of Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, have jointly convened an interdepartmental LEV Task Force to consider the range of measures and options available to Government for the purpose of accelerating the deployment of low carbon technologies, especially electric vehicles (EVs). The wide ranging work of the Taskforce has been divided between three working groups addressing: Market Growth Stimuli and Visibility; Infrastructure, Energy Regulation and Pricing; and Planning Legislation, Building Regulations and Public Leadership. As part of its programme of work, Working Group 1 of the LEV Taskforce, which is chaired by my Department, is assessing options for public administration and leadership incentivisation for private car owners. This will include due consideration for the introduction of incentives such as the extension of road charging exceptions for electric and hybrid vehicles, amongst other measures. Details of the progress of the Taskforce will be made available on my Department’s website in due course.

11/07/2017WRSS02700Taxi Licences

11/07/2017WRSS02800666. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider granting taxi licence holders a new grant towards the cost of purchasing an electric or hybrid vehicles for use in their businesses (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32441/17]

11/07/2017WRSS02900Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Govern- ment is committed to facilitating the increased uptake of low emitting vehicles (LEVs). It is Ireland’s ambition that all new cars and vans sold in this country from 2030 will be zero emission (or zero emission-capable) and my Department’s long-term vision for the decarbonisation of the transport sector will encompass the electrification of the passenger car fleet, including SPSVs.

As part of its programme of work, Working Group 1 of the LEV Taskforce, which is chaired by my Department, is assessing amongst other measures options for public administration and leadership incentivisation for private car owners. This includes consideration of the opportunities to promote the possibility of transitioning to EVs within the SPSV sector.

It is expected that preliminary recommendations from the Taskforce will be presented to the Government in Q3 of 2017, in advance of this year’s Budgetary and Estimates Process. Details of the progress of the Taskforce will be made available on my Department’s website in due course.

Furthermore, under a measure outlined in the soon-to-be-published National Mitigation Plan, my Department has recently established a Green Public Transport Fund to support the uptake of low carbon technologies within the public transport sector. The fund will support pilot demonstrations of emerging low emission technologies and will also support measures to encourage the transition of the national taxi fleet towards alternative technologies.

11/07/2017WRSS03000Bus Services

11/07/2017WRSS03100667. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the National Transport Authority proposals for bus transport in Dublin and on the additional resources needed to improve the Dublin regional bus network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32819/17]

11/07/2017WRSS03200Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As the Deputy is aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) recently launched the BusConnects initiative which proposes a radical transformation of the bus system in the Dublin region that will involve, inter alia, the development of a network of ‘next generation’ bus corridors and a complete redesign of the network to be accompanied by a network of bus-based park and ride sites at strategic locations.

The bus network is undeniably the cornerstone of the public transport system. Therefore, the best and most timely option to tackle congestion in the Dublin region in the short to medium term is to radically improve the bus system.

I am seeking additional funding for public transport investment in the mid-term review of the Capital Plan to support this initiative.

11/07/2017WRSS03300Traffic Data

11/07/2017WRSS03400668. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the latest data with the National Transport Authority and other State agencies of the relative percentage or portion of all journeys which are made by bicycle, motor bike, car, bus and rail, including DART and Luas on a daily basis during 2015 and 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32820/17]

11/07/2017WRSS03500Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Deputy may be aware that my Department publishes an annual report on transport trends that includes data from the Central Statistics Office on the percentage of journeys by mode of travel. The 2017 report is available here: http://www.dttas.ie/corporate/publications/english/transport-trends with the underlying data accessible through the CSO’s website (www.cso.ie). 535 Questions - Written Answers I would also refer the Deputy to the annual canal cordon reports available on the National Transport Authority’s website which provide the percentage share for all modes of travel used by people crossing the canal cordon inbound for the years 2006 to 2016. The 2016 report is available here: https://www.nationaltransport.ie/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Canal_Cordon_ Report_2016.pdf and sets out the key travel mode changes across the canal cordon in Dublin.

For the Deputy’s information, the following table sets out the share of journeys made nationally by various modes from 2012 to 2016:

Percentage of Journeys by Mode of Travel 2012-2016*

Mode of Travel 2012 2013 2014 2016 % % % Private Car 76.5 74.8 74.4 74.3 Public Transport 5.2 5.3 5.8 5.5 Walk/Cycle 14.8 16.7 16.4 16.3 Other 3.5 3.4 3.4 4.0 Source: National Travel Survey (CSO).

*2015 data not available.

The Deputy may also wish to note the forthcoming publication on 31 August of Census 2016 commuting data which will provide additional source of information in relation to his question.

11/07/2017WRSS03600Light Rail Projects Status

11/07/2017WRSS03700669. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the further planning which has been carried out by his Department and State agencies under his aegis into the construction of the Dublin Airport Swords to central Dublin fixed line public transport system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32821/17]

11/07/2017WRSS03800Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As the Deputy is aware, the Programme for Government includes a commitment to proceed with the new Metro North light rail link connecting St Stephens Green to Swords, via Dublin Airport. Funding of over €700 million has been allocated under the Government’s Capital Plan 2016-2021 for planning, design and to begin construction of new Metro North. Funding in the initial years of the Capital Plan is for planning and design work with construction expected to commence in 2021 with a view to delivering the project by 2026/2027.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the new Metro North project.

The NTA and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) have commenced preparatory work on the planning and design of new Metro North and a dedicated project Steering Group has been established which is meeting on a regular basis. The NTA, in collaboration with TII, is undertaking an option analysis and selection study of possible metro alignments and station locations. Arising from this work a final route and station configuration will be established. It is my understanding that the NTA and TII expect that this process will be complete by the end of 2017, after which a public consultation process will be undertaken in 2018.

536 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRSS03900Disabled Drivers Permits

11/07/2017WRSS04000670. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the precise criteria applying to applications under the disabled parking permit scheme; and the options open to a person to appeal a decision to refuse a permit. [32833/17]

11/07/2017WRSS04100Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Disabled Parking Permit is available to people, as drivers and passengers, living in Ireland with a permanent disability, medical condition, severe mobility difficulties and to people who are registered blind.

The disabled parking scheme is operated on behalf of my Department by the Disabled Driv- ers Association of Ireland (DDAI) and the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), who are empowered to issue disabled parking permits. Details of the criteria and application process are available on the respective websites www.iwa.ie and www.ddai.ie. As Minister, I have responsibility for the regulations under which the scheme operates.

A first stage appeals process is operated by the authorised bodies whereby those refused the granting or renewal of a Disabled Parking Permit are offered the opportunity of having all the documentation regarding their case reviewed independently by an Occupational Therapist or Medical Practitioner nominated by the authorised body, and an adjudication made on whether in the opinion of the reviewer and having regard to the terms of the scheme the authorised body was correct in reaching the decision taken. Such an independent review costs €35 and is payable directly to the Medical Practitioner/Occupational Therapist concerned. Should the reviewer consider that the authorised body erred in refusing to grant or renew the permit, the authorised body will issue the permit sought. Any extra expenses which may occur by the applicant in relation to this review will be borne by the applicant. If the review results in recom- mending the issue of a permit to the applicant, the issuing authority will reimburse the applicant for all fees in relation to the review process.

11/07/2017WRTT00200Airport Passenger Data

11/07/2017WRTT00300671. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the passenger numbers at Dublin, Cork, Shannon, Knock and Kerry airports, respectively, in each of the years 2004 to 2016, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32071/17]

11/07/2017WRTT00400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Passenger numbers (per million) from 2004-2016 for the airports referred to by the Deputy are outlined in the following table:

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Dublin 17.14 18.45 21.20 23.29 23.47 20.50 18.43 18.74 19.10 20.17 21.71 25.05 27.91

Cork 2.25 2.73 3.01 3.18 3.26 2.77 2.43 2.36 2.34 2.26 2.14 2.07 2.23

Shannon 2.40 3.30 3.64 3.62 3.17 2.79 1.76 1.66 1.40 1.40 1.64 1.71 1.75

Knock 0.37 0.53 0.63 0.56 0.63 0.61 0.59 0.65 0.69 0.67 0.70 0.69 0.73

Kerry 0.38 0.38 0.39 0.39 0.42 0.36 0.38 0.31 0.29 0.31 0.29 0.31 0.33

11/07/2017WRTT00500Road Safety

11/07/2017WRTT00600672. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to reinstate the continuous white line outside a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32082/17]

11/07/2017WRTT00700Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I understand that the 537 Questions - Written Answers road in question is a national road.

The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects on national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

Accordingly, 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 10 working days.

11/07/2017WRTT00800Regional Airports

11/07/2017WRTT00900673. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding requirements for Donegal Airport through each of the various approved schemes by capital funding and current funding, respectively, for each of the years 2017 to 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32128/17]

11/07/2017WRTT01000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Under the Regional Airports Programme, the four regional airports, including Donegal airport, submit their funding requirements in response to an invitation issued to them each year by my Department for proposals. It is a matter for the airport authorities themselves to identify the projects and activities in the areas of safety and security that they wish to submit for grant support each year under the Programme.

Under this year’s call for projects, grant aid of €22,500 was approved last month under the PPR1-Capital scheme for Donegal airport towards navigational charts. While this was the only new project submitted this year, Donegal airport also has approval from my Department from last year for a major safety extension to the apron which I understand has been delayed some- what due to planning considerations. Grant approval under the CAPEX scheme for this project, when the airport is in a position to proceed with it, amounts to €337,500.

Allocations for the regional airports under the OPEX and PPR-Operational2 schemes are also administered on an annual basis towards the end of each year and my Department will be consulting with the airports, including Donegal airport, in due course.

1. Public Policy Remit Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme

2. Public Policy Remit Operational Expenditure Grant Scheme.

11/07/2017WRTT01100Sport Ireland Funding

11/07/2017WRTT01200674. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of funding for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32131/17]

11/07/2017WRTT01300Minister 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, including the allocation of funding across its various programmes. Sport Ireland channels funding for sport through the relevant recognised National Governing Bodies of Sport. Sport Ireland has no mechanism to allocate funding to organisations outside of this process.

Mountain biking is an off road discipline of Cycling Ireland, the National Governing Body for cycling. I would suggest that the person, referred to in the details supplied, contact the rel-

538 11 July 2017 evant National Governing Body directly to see if they can be of assistance. Details are Tel: 01 8551522 or email: [email protected].

There is no funding or grant aid available through my Department for the purpose outlined by the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRTT01400Sports Events

11/07/2017WRTT01500675. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason and the mechanism by which the Athletics Association of Ireland’s participation in World and European Championships is restricted to representing the Republic of Ireland and not the island of Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32166/17]

11/07/2017WRTT01600Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Bren- dan Griffin): I am informed by Sport Ireland that Athletics Ireland is the National Governing Body for athletics in Ireland. Since 1924, Athletics Ireland has been affiliated to the Interna- tional Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF), the world governing body for the sport.

Under IAAF statutes, Athletics Ireland’s jurisdiction at international events covers the 26 counties of Ireland and, as such, the status of Ireland at European and World Athletic Champi- onships is on that basis.

All National Governing Bodies of Sport are independent, autonomous bodies and are responsible for their own governance procedures and competition rules for their sports. I would suggest that the Deputy contact Athletics Ireland directly for any further information in relation to this matter. Contact details for Athletics Ireland at (01) 8869933 or email admin@athletic- sireland.ie.

11/07/2017WRTT01700Taxi Regulations

11/07/2017WRTT01800676. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if consideration will be given to introduce a fairer system for taxi drivers that wish to retire and sell their taxi businesses, in view of the fact that this is a unique problem for taxi drivers here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32266/17]

11/07/2017WRTT01900679. Deputy Tony McLoughlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether the Taxi Regulator should consider the need for all taxis operating here to be equipped with both inside and road facing video recording cameras in order to protect the passengers whilst also helping to reduce the cost of insurance for taxi drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32404/17]

11/07/2017WRTT02000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I propose to take Questions Nos. 676 and 679 together.

The regulation of the small public service vehicle industry, including issues pertaining to vehicle standards and licensing requirements, is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.

I have therefore referred your Questions to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

539 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRTT02100Road Network

11/07/2017WRTT02200677. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the Transport Infrastructure Ireland service station at the M11 site outside Gorey will open; the cost in terms of building and maintaining the station to date by category and year; and the estimated lost revenue from the service station since work finished on the station in 2015. [32328/17]

11/07/2017WRTT02300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As Minister for Trans- port, 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 national road projects, including service areas, is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

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 10 working days.

11/07/2017WRTT02400Road Traffic Offences Data

11/07/2017WRTT02500678. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 1874 of 20 June 2017, the number of prosecutions for non-compliance that have ensued. [32343/17]

11/07/2017WRTT02600Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Further to parliamentary question number 1874 of 20 June 2017, following is a list of prosecutions in relation to logbook offences for the years 2016 and 2017:

Year Court location Offences Fines 2017 Skibbereen District Failure to record €850 Court details in the vessels logbook

Question No. 679 answered with Question No. 676.

11/07/2017WRTT02800Light Rail Projects Status

11/07/2017WRTT02900680. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of plans to extend the Luas to Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32406/17]

11/07/2017WRTT03000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The National Trans- port Authority’s (NTA) Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) 2016-2035 provides the overarching framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services in the GDA over the next two decades.

The strategy includes a number of proposals to further develop the light rail network in the GDA including the Luas. These include Luas Cross City; New Metro North light rail link from the south city centre to Swords, via Dublin Airport; Capacity enhancements and upgrade to the Luas Green Line from the south city centre to Bride’s Glen; Extension of the Luas Green Line to Bray; Extension of Luas Cross City to Finglas; Luas to Lucan; and Luas Red Line extension to Poolbeg. The strategy does not include a proposal for a light rail extension to the wider 540 11 July 2017 Dublin 15 area.

11/07/2017WRTT03100Public Transport Provision

11/07/2017WRTT03200681. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will examine the existing public transport services serving James Connolly hospital in Blanchard- stown, Dublin 15; his plans to improve the public transport services to the hospital; the status of the future transport plans for the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32407/17]

11/07/2017WRTT03300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As the Deputy is aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) is responsible for the development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area and the NTA’s Transport Strategy for the Greater Dublin Area 2016-2035 provides a framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services in the region over the next two decades.

In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the Authority for a more detailed reply in relation to public transport services and plans relating to James Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

11/07/2017WRTT03400Road Projects Expenditure

11/07/2017WRTT03500682. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will organise and facilitate the co-ordination of his Department and the Departments of rural and community affairs, Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government and Jobs, En- terprise and Innovation to jointly finance the construction of the western distributor road in Sligo town for a total amount in the region of €15 million which is ready for tendering and is necessary to open lands owned by the IDA for use in view of the fact all other lands owned by it in the greater urban Sligo area have now been exhausted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32449/17]

11/07/2017WRTT03600Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads (such as the Western Distributor Road) is the statutory responsibility of the relevant local authority (in this case Sligo County Council), in 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.

Decisions on the transport elements of the Capital Plan 2016-2021 were framed by the conclusions reached in my Department’s Strategic Investment Framework for Land Transport. Based on the findings in that report it is envisaged that maintenance and renewal of the road network will continue to be the main priority over the next period and the bulk of the roads capital budget, approximately €4.4 billion, is earmarked for such essential work with a further €600 million allocated for implementation of the PPP road programme which is already under way. In this context it was not possible to include a range of projects (including the Western Distributor Road) in the Plan given the overall funding envelope available.

As regards the possibility of additional funding within the Plan period, the Capital Plan Review process is under way. My Department is making a strong case for additional funding, including the development of a project pipeline for national road schemes. The final decisions 541 Questions - Written Answers on allocations are, however, matters for the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and Government as a whole.

Notwithstanding the above, it is for Sligo County Council (as the responsible Road Author- ity) to identify appropriate sources of funding for the project and in this context I understand that the Council has been liaising with the IDA. My Department has been facilitating the development of the project for a number of years and has provided an allocation of €100k to Sligo County Council in 2017 to progress the detailed design of the project.

11/07/2017WRTT03700Road Safety

11/07/2017WRTT03800683. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will request TII to reinstate the continuous white line directly outside of a school (details supplied) between Kells station and Deelis bridge, Caherciveen, County Kerry on completion of road works it is currently carrying out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32452/17]

11/07/2017WRTT03900Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I understand that the road in question is a national road.

Accordingly, 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 10 working days.

11/07/2017WRTT04000Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRTT04100684. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within his Depart- ment’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods and or changes to costs within his Department and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32498/17]

11/07/2017WRTT04200Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): For 2017 my Depart- ment has an allocation of over €1.1 bn capital and €680m current. There is no unallocated spend and I anticipate that the total allocation will be spent this year.

In relation to 2018, my Department has input into the Spending Review and the mid-term review of the Capital Plan that is currently underway by Government. This input will form part of the Government’s deliberations on Budget 2018.

11/07/2017WRTT04300Living Wage Expenditure

11/07/2017WRTT04400685. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32487/17]

11/07/2017WRTT04500Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): Policy making in

542 11 July 2017 relation to the terms and conditions, including the determination of pay rates, for all public servants including staff in the State Agencies under the aegis of my Department is a matter in the first instance of my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.

The living wage is voluntary and is currently not a statutory entitlement. Should the living wage be implemented in the future, the calculation of the costs arising will be considered in the context of the overall staffing budget.

11/07/2017WRUU00200Driver Licences Applications

11/07/2017WRUU00300686. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the delays in processing driving licences by the National Driver Licence Service; the reason there is a 20-week wait time when applying to do a driving test in County Wexford; his plans to address this waiting list; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32620/17]

11/07/2017WRUU00400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The operation of the National Driver Licensing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred the Question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.

11/07/2017WRUU00500Sports Capital Programme Applications

11/07/2017WRUU00600687. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the successful applicants for the sports capital grant 2017 will be notified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32625/17]

11/07/2017WRUU00700Minister 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. The total amount available to allocate under this round is €30 million. Accordingly, the allocation of grants will be particularly challenging on this occasion.

All of the applications received are currently being assessed by officials in my Depart- ment. Given the number of applications received and the detailed information submitted, it will take a further number of weeks to complete this process. I expect that an announcement regarding allocations will be made in September.

11/07/2017WRUU00800Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRUU00900688. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32659/17]

11/07/2017WRUU01000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The information requested by the Deputy is available to end 2016 on my Department’s website at the following link External Expenditure. Details are updated on a 6-monthly basis and the data for the first 6 months of 2017 is currently being collated and will be published when completed. 543 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRUU01100Departmental Funding

11/07/2017WRUU01200689. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding made available by his Department for the development of cycleways in 2017; the amount of funding that will be allocated to the County Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32661/17]

11/07/2017WRUU01300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): In 2017, €37m. is being invested in sustainable transport measures which includes cycling infrastructure.

Of this figure €19 m. is being allocated under the Sustainable Transport Management grant scheme, administered by the National Transport Authority (NTA), for investment in the Greater Dublin Area.

I am forwarding your request to the NTA for consideration and comment on the allocation of funding for cycle projects in County Dublin. If you have not received a response from the NTA within 10 working days please contact my office.

11/07/2017WRUU01400Tourism Industry

11/07/2017WRUU01500690. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on remarks made by a person (details supplied) that Dublin is a rip off and that Ireland’s image has been tarnished; his plans to counter such views internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32697/17]

11/07/2017WRUU01600Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Government strongly supports Irish tourism, recognising it as a key sector in Ireland’s economic recovery. The combined efforts of Government, the tourism agencies and the industry are proving very successful and it is very satisfying to see the growth in tourist numbers, revenue and jobs that have come about over the last few years as a result.

Whilst I was disappointed to hear of the views referred to by the Deputy, the fact is that the vast majority of visitors to this country do not share those views. The very positive results of Fáilte Ireland’s Overseas Holidaymakers’ Attitudes Survey 2016 affirm this. According to this broad survey of holidaymakers, overall satisfaction ratings are very positive. Almost two- thirds of respondents felt their expectations of an Irish holiday had been met, whereas a further one-third stated that their Irish holiday had exceeded their expectations. With specific regard to our value for money ratings, just short of two-thirds of overseas visitors surveyed said they had found ‘good’ or ‘very good’ value here.

Assisted by a range of Government measures to enhance tourism competitiveness, such as the lower VAT rate and the zero-rating of the Air Travel Tax, combined with strong annual Ex- chequer investment in the sector through the tourism agencies, we have worked hard to regain our reputation internationally as a good quality, good value holiday destination. Key public investments, like the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East and Dublin – A Breath of Fresh Air, are also assisting competitiveness by providing a better tourism experience for visitors.

Nonetheless, the remarks certainly reinforce the importance of safeguarding this reputation and the critical need to maintain our competitiveness and value for money. I am concerned that rising accommodation prices - in Dublin or elsewhere - risk damaging the gains we have made in recent years to the long-term detriment of our tourist industry and the overall economy. This is exacerbated by recent currency movements, particularly Sterling versus the Euro, that further

544 11 July 2017 threaten our competitiveness in key markets. I would, therefore, urge the industry not to be complacent and to keep a sharp focus on pricing, value for money and overall competitiveness.

I am aware that Tourism Ireland, in devising its marketing campaigns, are conscious that competitiveness and the value for money message are more important than ever this year, particularly in Britian. It is also undertaking an expanded partnership programme with airlines, ferry operators and tour operators, communicating a strong price-led message to drive home value for money.

Having restored Ireland’s competitiveness and regained trust internationally as a good value destination, the challenge now is to continue to offer quality, good value, memorable hospitality to our tourists. It is critically important that the tourist industry maintain its commitment to competitiveness.

11/07/2017WRUU01700Railway Stations Upgrade

11/07/2017WRUU01800691. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the plans to upgrade Colbert train station, Limerick further to the refurbishment of the plaza at the station. [32723/17]

11/07/2017WRUU01900692. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount of the previously announced €16.8 million funding for the redevelopment of Colbert train station in Limerick that has been spent to date. [32724/17]

11/07/2017WRUU02000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I propose to take Questions Nos. 691 and 692 together as they both relate to Colbert train station in Limerick. The National Transport Authority (NTA) administers the Regional Cities Programme for investment in public transport infrastructure in the regional cities, including Limerick.

Noting the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

11/07/2017WRUU02200Sports Capital Programme Applications

11/07/2017WRUU02300693. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when a decision will be made in respect of an application for the sports capital programme by a club (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32735/17]

11/07/2017WRUU02400Minister 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 and I can confirm that an application has been submitted by the organisation referred to by the Deputy.

By the closing date, a record number of 2,320 applications seeking €155 million in grants were received and all of these applications are currently being assessed. The total amount available to allocate under this round is €30 million. Accordingly, the allocation of grants will be particularly challenging. Given the number of applications received and the detailed information submitted, it will take a further number of weeks to complete this process and I expect that an announcement regarding allocations will be made in September.

11/07/2017WRUU02500Light Rail Projects 545 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRUU02600694. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to safeguard the route alignments through Finglas at which there is a real danger that dwellings may be constructed on the proposed alignment of a Luas extension (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32740/17]

11/07/2017WRUU02700Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The National Trans- port Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the implementation and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). The NTA’s Transport Strat- egy for the Greater Dublin Area 2016-2035 provides a framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services in the GDA over the next two decades. The Strategy includes a proposal for the extension of Luas Cross City from its terminus at Broombridge to the north of Finglas.

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.

11/07/2017WRUU02800Light Rail Projects

11/07/2017WRUU02900695. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the details of contracts agreed with a company (details supplied) and contracts that have been entered into regarding the construction of the Dublin Airport metro in view of the fact that contracts have already been signed. [32930/17]

11/07/2017WRUU03000Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, including the provision of light rail infrastructure.

11/07/2017WRUU03100Driver Test

11/07/2017WRUU03200696. Deputy Frank O’Rourke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to reduce the fee, in instances in which the driver theory test has to be repeated a second or multiple times (details supplied); his further plans to decrease the fee for the second and each subsequent attempt at the driver theory test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32952/17]

11/07/2017WRUU03300Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The Driver Theory Test service, which operates under contract to the Road Safety Authority, provides a number of options to assist applicants with particular difficulties.

Among other options, applicants may have additional time for the test, may have an audio reading of the test, or have an official of the testing service provided to read the questions and input their answers on the computer system.

I have no plans at present to adjust the theory test fees.

546 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRUU03400Sports Capital Programme Applications

11/07/2017WRUU03500697. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status on an application for sports capital funding by a group (details supplied). [33033/17]

11/07/2017WRUU03600Minister 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 and I can confirm that an application has been submitted by the organisation referred to by the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRUU03700Sports Events

11/07/2017WRUU03800698. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the 2023 Rugby World Cup bid and the need for supporting infrastructure will influence the midterm review of the capital programme; and if so, if key infrastructural projects such as the N22 Macroom bypass and M20 Cork-Limerick road will be prioritised. [33073/17]

11/07/2017WRUU03900Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): The investment implications arising from a successful bid for the Rugby World Cup 2023 are part of my Depart- ment’s considerations in relation to the mid-term review of the Government’s Capital Plan. I, along with Ministerial colleagues, am engaged in making our cases to the Minister for Fi- nance, Public Expenditure and Reform for increased funding for a variety of important capital investments over the medium to long term.

I understand all Departmental submissions will be published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in due course. For the moment, these submissions are part of a delib- erative process which will be completed over the Summer with final decisions to be taken by Government as part of the 2018 Estimate.

11/07/2017WRUU04000Tourism Promotion

11/07/2017WRUU04100699. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the efforts being made to promote tourism in the north Cork area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33094/17]

11/07/2017WRUU04200Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Bren- dan Griffin): The matter raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for the boards and management of the two tourism agencies - Tourism Ireland in regard to overseas tourism marketing and Fáilte Ireland in regard to regional tourism development and domestic tourism promotion.

Accordingly I have referred the Deputy’s question to the two tourism agencies for direct reply. Please contact my private office if a reply has not been received within ten working days.

I would also be happy to hear directly from the deputy any proposals he may have in this

547 Questions - Written Answers regard.

11/07/2017WRUU04300Road Projects Status

11/07/2017WRUU04400700. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of progress of the M20 motorway from Cork to Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33095/17]

11/07/2017WRUU04500Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As Minister for Trans- port, 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 national road projects is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.

The Capital Plan published in September 2015 outlined proposed transport investment priorities to 2022. The transport element of the Capital Plan did provide for some targeted investment in a number of new projects in the Munster region including the N8/N25 Dunkettle Interchange and the N22 Ballyvourney to Macroom schemes. In addition, a number of other schemes targeted at removing bottlenecks and upgrading port access, will commence subject to necessary consents. It was not possible to include the M20 in the Capital Plan as the scale of investment required to deliver it was not affordable within the available capital envelope.

As regards the possibility of additional funding within the Plan period, the Minister for Pub- lic Expenditure and Reform has commenced the Capital Plan review. While there is a strong case for additional funding for the transport sector, there are a multitude of possible national, regional and local projects around the country, the cost of which far exceed available funding. Pending the consideration of progressing a Cork to Limerick link as a part of the Capital Plan Review I have agreed to TII spending about €1 million on preliminary work associated with such a scheme.

The final decisions on the Capital Plan Review allocations are, however, matters for the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform and Government as a whole.

11/07/2017WRVV00200Road Projects Expenditure

11/07/2017WRVV00300701. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funding which has been made available in 2016, available for 2017 and proposed for 2018 in respect of a roads project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33098/17]

11/07/2017WRVV00400Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): I understand the road being referred to by the Deputy is the Portlaoise Southern Circular route.

The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads in Laois is the statutory responsibility of Laois County Council, in 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 Portlaoise Southern Circular route is among the schemes included in the Capital Plan 2016-2021 subject to achieving the necessary project approvals (including approval from An Bord Pleanála for the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO). My Department’s Economic and Fi- nancial Evaluation Unit liaised with the Council in respect of the project appraisal submitted by 548 11 July 2017 the Council under the Capital Appraisal Framework. This appraisal process was concluded last month and the Council was advised of my Department’s approval to progress the project to the next stage. I understand that this will involve the submission by the Council of the Compulsory Purchase Order relating to the project to An Bord Pleanála for approval.

It is the responsibility of Laois County Council to progress this scheme through the approval process and the timescale for the progression of the scheme to construction depends on when that process is completed. Once the necessary project approvals are received funding support from my Department for construction of the project will be provided.

Details of payments to all local authorities in respect of regional and local roads in 2016 are outlined in the payments booklets available to the Dáil Library. Details of the 2017 allocations in respect of regional and local roads are also available in the Dáil library. Funding for regional and local road schemes next year will be announced in January 2018.

11/07/2017WRVV00500Railway Stations

11/07/2017WRVV00600702. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to improve parking at a train station (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33099/17]

11/07/2017WRVV00700Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport (Deputy Shane Ross): As Minister for Trans- port, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for policy and for the overall funding of public transport. Issues relating to the provision of car parking spaces at train stations on the heavy rail network are an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann.

In view of Iarnród Éireann’s responsibility in this matter I have referred the Deputy’s question to the company for direct reply.

Please advise my Office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

11/07/2017WRVV00800Child Care Costs

11/07/2017WRVV00900703. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 656 of 23 May 2017, the estimated number of children for the targeted scheme between six months and three years of age for 2017 (details supplied). [32130/17]

11/07/2017WRVV01000Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): The Affordable Childcare Scheme (ACS), once introduced, will include both universal and targeted elements. It is currently estimated that when the scheme is initially introduced approximately 16,000 children aged between 6 months and 3 years of age will benefit from targeted subsidies within the ACS.

Of the total number of children who benefit from targeted subsidies within the ACS, it is estimated that approximately 21% will benefit from the maximum subsidy rates available within the scheme, which will be awarded to families with net incomes below €22,700 per annum. The maximum subsidy rates will vary by the age of the child, and will range from €5.11 per hour for children less than 1 year old to €3.76 per hour for school-age children. The maximum subsidy available for any child under the scheme will be €5.11 per hour. The minimum subsidy under the targeted portion of the scheme for children aged between 6 months and 3 years will be €0.50 per hour. This minimum subsidy-rate will apply to families with a net income of €47,500 549 Questions - Written Answers or above per annum.

The minimum subsidy-rate under the targeted portion of the ACS is set to be the same as the universal subsidy-rate. If the universal subsidy-rate were raised, the minimum subsidy-rate under the targeted portion of the scheme would therefore rise by the same amount. For example, whereas it is currently proposed that the universal subsidy-rate for 2 year olds will be €0.50 per hour and the targeted subsidy-rate for 2 year olds will range from €0.50 per hour up to €4.18 per hour, if the universal subsidy-rate were raised to €3 per hour then the targeted subsidy-rate for 2 year olds would range from €3 per hour up to €4.18 per hour. Raising the level of the universal subsidy would therefore not create any incentive for a parent to switch from receiving a targeted subsidy to receiving a universal subsidy.

Increasing the universal subsidy-rate (as well as the resulting increase in targeted subsidy- rates described above) would, however, lead to a likely increase in the demand for childcare, because it would reduce the net fees paid by parents. Such an increase in subsidy-rates would therefore increase the expected number of beneficiaries of both the universal and targeted por- tions of the scheme.

11/07/2017WRVV01100School Completion Programme

11/07/2017WRVV01200704. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the first and full-year cost of restoring funding to the school completion programme to 2011 levels. [32198/17]

11/07/2017WRVV01300Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): As the Deputy may be aware, responsibility for the National Educational Welfare Board which included the School Completion Programme was transferred to my Department on its establishment in 2011. Upon the establishment of Tusla, the Child and Family Agency on January 1 2014, operational responsibility for the School Completion Programme was transferred to the Agency.

The School Completion Programmes are funded in line with the academic year commencing in September each year. The funding available to the School Completion Programme for the school year 2017/2018 stands at €24.756m. An increase in funding of €3.5m per annum would be required to bring funding levels back to the 2011/2012 funding level which stood at €28.256m.

11/07/2017WRVV01400Affordable Childcare Scheme

11/07/2017WRVV01500705. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the percentage of the €19 million budget that has been committed to the affordable childcare scheme. [32199/17]

11/07/2017WRVV01600Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): As previously announced, the Affordable Childcare Scheme (ACS) will not commence this September. This is an extremely complex and ambitious project because of all that is involved – legislation, new business processes, data protection and building a new ICT system. It requires integration of data from the Department of Social Protection and the Office of the Revenue Commissioners so that the ICTsystem can calculate every family’s net income and ACS subsidy. We are all keen to see the new system introduced as soon as possible, but the sheer complexity of the project means that it will take some time. I do not want to introduce the new scheme before all elements – legislation, ICT and business systems – are fully in place and rigourously tested. 550 11 July 2017 However, I do not want to delay the benefit of higher childcare subsidies for families. For that reason, major improvements in childcare subsidies will come into effect this September, within the framework of the existing childcare schemes and utilising the additional funding secured in Budget 2017 to honour the Government’s commitment to deliver more affordable childcare to families.

The improvements this September will include increases of up to 50% in targeted childcare subsidy rates, improving access for parents in lower income families by significantly reducing the co-payment required. In addition, the new universal childcare subsidy for children aged from six months up to entry to the ECCE Programme will be available from September, in line with the announcement I made following the Government’s Budget decision in October 2016. This non-means tested subsidy is available to tens of thousands of children and is worth as much as €1,040 per year towards the cost of childcare for the families of children of this age cohort.

The level of universal subsidy available this September is the same as that proposed for the ACS subsidy, i.e. a maximum subsidy of €20 per week for full-time childcare, with the subsidy for part-time childcare reduced pro rata. The levels of targeted subsidy available this Septem- ber, while not identical to the subsidy-rates that are proposed for the ACS, will be broadly similar to those rates, with some families receiving slightly more and some slightly less than they will receive when the ACS is introduced. These differences are inevitable given the structure of the existing childcare schemes, which involve only a limited number of subsidy-bands, whereas the ACS will allow a smooth taper to be applied to subsidy-rates.

I am satisfied that the new measures commencing this September will honour the Govern- ment’s commitment to delivering more affordable childcare to families. The majority of the €19 million additional funding provided in Budget 2017 is being directed towards these changes and will deliver significant reductions in childcare bills for tens of thousands of families. A portion of this funding was allocated to the development of the ACS and continues to be used for this purpose.

11/07/2017WRVV01700Community Childcare Subvention Programme

11/07/2017WRVV01800706. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of families that are expected to avail of each band of subsidy under the affordable child care measures that is being introduced in September 2017. [32200/17]

11/07/2017WRVV01900Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Given the considerable increase in subsidies, particularly through the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCS) taking effect from September 2017, it is difficult to provide accurate estimates around uptake of the schemes.

However, looking at 16/17 figures may provide a broad indication of likely levels of uptake for the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme. From these figures (to date):

- 13,108 children have been registered under Band A

- 4,197 children have been registered under Band AJ

- 7,248 children have been registered under Band B

It is an anticipated that an extra 6000 children will register for targeted bands in 2017/18.

With effect from September 2017 a number of adjustments to the bands will take place in-

551 Questions - Written Answers cluding the division of Band B into a newly constituted Band B and Band D.

With regard to the new universal element an estimated 33,000 children from the age of 6 months up until they are eligible for ECCE may avail of a new universal non means-tested childcare subsidy, reducing the cost of childcare for these children by up to €1,040 per year.

11/07/2017WRVV02000Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRVV02100707. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Children and Youth Af- fairs the unallocated spend within her Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within her Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for goods and services or changes to costs within her Department and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32218/17]

11/07/2017WRVV02200712. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the unallocated spend within her Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within her Depart- ment’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods or changes to costs within her Department and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32311/17]

11/07/2017WRVV02300Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I propose to take Questions Nos. 707 and 712 together.

The gross funding allocation to my Department in 2017 amounts to €1.311 billion. Full details of the resource provisions across the individual Subheads in the Vote are set out in the 2017 Revised Estimates for Public Services as published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The funds have been fully allocated and the financial provisions support a range of key services in respect of children and young people. The resource requirements for 2018 to support the continued implementation of the programmes and services administered by my Department will be considered in the context of the budget and estimates process.

11/07/2017WRVV02400Youth Services

11/07/2017WRVV02500708. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the progress of the LGBTI+ youth strategy; and when she expects the strategy to conclude. [32219/17]

11/07/2017WRVV02600Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): The Programme for Government (2016) gives a commitment to develop a National LGBTI+ Youth Strategy. A specific focus on LGBTI+ Youth will aim to ensure that appropriate measures are taken so that young members of the LGBTI+ Community are not in any way prevented from achieving their full potential.

Better Outcomes Brighter Futures, The National Policy Framework for Children and Young People 2014 – 2020 and The National Youth Strategy 2015 – 2020 will provide a framework within which the strategy can be structured with a focus on appropriate measures to ensure that young people identifying as LGBTI+ are supported in achieving their full potential.

The five outcomes we want for all our children and young people are that they:

552 11 July 2017 (i) Are active and healthy, with positive physical and mental wellbeing;

(ii) Are achieving their full potential in all areas of learning and development;

(iii) Are safe and protected from harm;

(iv) Have economic security and opportunity; and

(v) Are connected, respected and contributing to their world.

An Oversight Committee was appointed to manage the development of the strategy and represents a broad cross sectoral grouping of relevant organisations, bodies and Government De- partment/Agencies who will have a role in the development and implementation of the strategy.

The Strategy will be youth centred and in this regard a youth advisory group has also been established. They have had significant input into the work done so far, particularly in relation to developing the branding for the Strategy and the consultations which were held for young people. The youth advisory group are also represented on the Oversight Committee, providing two nominees to the Committee.

Consultations with young people are vital to the development of the Strategy. An online survey on www.spunout.ie was carried out in April and May which attracted approximately 4,000 responses. In addition to this, officials from my Department held seven consultations with young people across the country, one aimed at all young people who wished to contribute to the development of the Strategy and six reserved for young members of the LGBTI+ Com- munity.

Two of these consultations were held in Dublin with the others taking place in Cork, Dundalk, Galway, Sligo and Waterford. A report writer was appointed for these consultations and the report will be published in the coming weeks. Finally a stakeholder consultation was held on June 28th in Farmleigh House, which was attended by representatives from approximately seventy different organisations.

The data arising from these consultations will be used to shape the development of the Strat- egy and identify priorities for the Oversight Committee to examine in the coming months. The Strategy will be completed by the end of 2017.

11/07/2017WRVV02700Mental Health Services

11/07/2017WRVV02800709. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the areas of responsibility for the management of child mental health issues that fall under the remit of Tusla; the areas that remain under the remit of the Health Service Executive; if she has satisfied herself that the system of interaction between Tusla and the HSE relating to child mental health is the most appropriate one; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32293/17]

11/07/2017WRVV02900Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Mental health services remain under the aegis of the Health Service Executive. Tusla provides a range of counselling and supports for children and families in the community, such as family support, social work services, and the identification of appropriate services through Meitheal. There is cooperation between Tusla and the Health Services Executive on the development and provision of appropriate services for children in care.

A Joint Protocol has been developed and agreed in 2017 to ensure that children in the care of the State have access to the services they require. Known as the ‘Joint Protocol for Inter- 553 Questions - Written Answers agency Collaboration between the Health Service Executive and the Child and Family Agency to Promote the Best Interests of the Child, March 2017’, the Protocol was developed to assist staff to source appropriate services for children.

When a child is received into care they are assessed and an individual care plan is developed. The care plan sets out the child’s needs in the immediate, medium and long term and also the arrangements for the care of the child. The care plan also explicitly states the arrangements for the implementation of these goals, including access to specialist services such as medical or psychological services, where such a need has been identified. If Tusla has difficulty in accessing HSE services identified as necessary for a child in care, a private service will be considered. All other mental health services are provided through the HSE, included those provided through the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

My department officials and I have met with the HSE and Tusla regarding the provision of additional HSE psychologists into the system, to ensure that the needs of children and young people are being met. To strengthen this focus and improve coordination and collaboration on this issue, my department is in the process of establishing a working group comprising the De- partment of Health, HSE and Tusla.

It is crucially important that we can align and enhance services which support the psychological welfare of children, so that children are provided with optimum supports to realise positive outcomes.

11/07/2017WRVV03000Child Protection

11/07/2017WRVV03100710. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the details of the signs of safety strategy for child protection that Tusla has been preparing to implement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32294/17]

11/07/2017WRVV03200Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): The Child Pro- tection and Welfare Strategy (CPWS) developed by Tusla, the Child and Family Agency is a 3-5 year strategic plan that lies at the heart of a significant transformation to improve organisational, cultural and operational matters. As part of the CPWS, Tusla has selected the Signs of Safety as its national approach to practice. The Signs of Safety is an innovative, strengths- based, safety-organised approach to child protection casework, grounded in partnership and collaboration with children, families and their wider networks of support.

The Signs of Safety reflects best practice which is underpinned by ‘Children First’. Chil- dren and families will be at the centre of assessment and decision-making and the approach will be strengths-based, evidence-based and outcome-focused.

Central to the Signs of Safety approach is a risk assessment and case planning format that is meaningful for professionals as well as the parents and children. The Signs of Safety risk assessment process is characterised by:

- The integration of professional knowledge with local family and cultural knowledge, and the balancing of a rigorous exploration of danger or harm alongside indicators of strengths and safety.

- A format that offers a simple yet rigorous assessment format that the practitioner can use to elicit, in common language, the professional’s and family members’ views regarding concerns or dangers, existing strengths, safety and envisioned safety.

554 11 July 2017 - A framework that integrates risk assessment with case planning and risk management by incorporating a future focus within the assessment.

A comprehensive overview of Signs of Safety is available on the Tusla website.

11/07/2017WRVV03300Care Orders

11/07/2017WRVV03400711. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of emergency care orders under section 13(7) of the Child Care Act 1991 that have been granted in the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32295/17]

11/07/2017WRVV03500Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Emergency care orders are made by the Courts under Section 13 of the Child Care Act 1991. Section 13 (7) stipulates the directions a judge making an emergency care order may give with respect to whether the address or location of the child is withheld from the parents of the child, the access, if any, that is to be permitted, and the medical or psychiatric examination, treatment or assessment of the child.

The record of emergency care orders made and any such directions given at the time they were made are a matter for the Courts Service, and Tusla would not collate this data.

Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, provides information on the number of children received into care for legal reasons, including under emergency care orders, in its annual Review of Adequacy reports. I have included the relevant available data, which refers to the years 2012-2015, in a Table, for the Deputy’s information.

Table 1: Admissions to care by reason of emergency care order.

Year Number of admissions to care by reason of emergency care order* 2015 270 2014 366 2013 414 2012 424 *Data taken from Tusla Review of Adequacy Reports, available at www.tusla.ie.

Question No. 712 answered with Question No. 707.

11/07/2017WRVV03700Domestic Violence Services Funding

11/07/2017WRVV03800713. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the budget allocated to the domestic violence support service in 2017; the spend to date; and the expected final spend by the end of 2017. [32361/17]

11/07/2017WRVV03900Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has statutory responsibility for the care and protection of victims of domestic, sexual and gender based violence. In 2017, Tusla is allocating €22.1 million to these services, an increase of €1.5 million over 2016.

A network of 60 organisations provide services to victims of domestic, sexual and gender based violence in Ireland, including 20 services providing emergency refuge accommodation to

555 Questions - Written Answers women and children and 24 community-based domestic violence services.

To date this year, Tusla has provided funding of approximately €10.13 million to domestic violence services. Allocation of funds for the remainder of 2017 will be confirmed in due course.

At all times, Tusla’s key priority is to ensure that the needs of victims of domestic violence are being met in the best way possible.

11/07/2017WRVV04000Living Wage Implementation

11/07/2017WRVV04100714. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32557/17]

11/07/2017WRVV04200Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): A suggested living wage of €11.70 per hour would equate to an annual salary threshold of €22,879. This is based on a standard civil service net working week of 37 hours. There are no staff in my De- partment on a salary under this threshold.

As the information requested is not readily available in respect of the agencies under my Department’s remit, I have asked the Adoption Authority of Ireland, the Children Detention School Campus and Tusla to furnish this information directly to the Deputy.

The Office of the Ombudsman for Children is independent in its function and reports to the Oireachtas on matters within its remit, as required by the Ombudsman for Children Act 2002.I have forwarded the question to the Office of the Ombudsman for Children and asked that they might correspond with you directly in this matter.

11/07/2017WRVV04300Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRVV04400715. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Department for each of the past five years 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. [32646/17]

11/07/2017WRVV04500Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Details of the expenditure outlays on those matters relative to my Department are set out in the tables below. I am requesting the bodies under the aegis of my Department, namely, the Child and Family Agency, the Adoption Authority of Ireland, Oberstown Children Detention Campus and the Of- fice of the Ombudsman for Children to provide the relevant information directly to the Deputy.

Photography Costs for Children and Young People’s Participation Events

Year Event Expenditure 2012 How we see it: Report of a €436.97 survey on Teenagers Body Image

556 11 July 2017 Life as a Child and Young €493.72 Person in Ireland Comhairle na Óg National €828.55 Showcase 2013 Dáil na Óg Event €1,094.70 2014 Comhairle na Óg National €522.75 Showcase 2015 Dáil na nÓg Event €424.35 2016 Comhairle na Óg National €528.90 Showcase Photography Costs for Other Events

Year Event Total Expenditure 2012 Report of Task Force €493.72 Visiting Vietnamese Del- €1409.22 egation with Vietnamese Minister for Justice, Adop- tion Authority and Irish Viet- namese Society Children’s Referendum In- €1709.70 formation 2013 Standards for Local Youth €436.97 Groups EU Presidency International €120.00 Conference Event Dublin Castle Networking of €500.00 Four Youth Organisations Launch of Board of Child & €300.00 Family Agency 2014 Launch of Better Outcomes €189.80 Brighter Futures 2015 Establishment of Mother and €90.80 Baby Homes Commission Supply of images for Mother €177.42 and Baby Homes Commis- sion Photoshoot for Mother and €120.37 Baby Homes Commission 2017 to date Affordable Childcare €430.50 Scheme Advertising

Year Payment to Expenditure 2012 KD Nine Advertising and €164,725.29 Marketing (Broadcast Media Advertising for Children’s Referendum)

557 Questions - Written Answers Year Payment to Expenditure Brindley Advertising (Ad- €247,515.95 vertising related to the Chil- dren’s Referendum) 2013 FCR Media (Placing of €6,279.15 Department’s details in state Directory, Golden Pages (books & website) and Eir- com phone directories) Public Appointments Ser- €3,769.09 vice (Staff Recruitment) 2014 FCR Media (Placing of €6,279.15 Department’s details in state Directory, Golden Pages (books & website) and Eir- com phone directories) 2015 MediaVest (Print media €29,907.61 advertising campaign re Commission of Investiga- tion into Mother and Baby Homes and Certain Related Matters) FCR Media (Placing of €6,279.15 Department’s details in state Directory, Golden Pages (books & website) and Eir- com phone directories) MediaVest (Public radio €30,529.83 advertisement campaign re Commission of Investiga- tion into Mother and Baby Homes and Certain Related Matters) 2016 MediaVest (National public €24,043.75 consultation on the Afford- able Childcare Scheme) thejournal.ie (National pub- €3,690.00 lic consultation on the Af- fordable Childcare Scheme) FCR Media (Placing of €5,960.58 Department’s details in state Directory, Golden Pages (books & website) and Eir- com phone directories)

558 11 July 2017 Year Payment to Expenditure MediaVest (Print media €37,724.22 advertising campaign re Commission of Investiga- tion into Mother and Baby Homes and Certain Related Matters) Phd Media (Public radio €26,754.25 advertisement campaign re Commission of Investiga- tion into Mother and Baby Homes and Certain Related Matters) Penhouse Design (Design €1,230.00 of leaflet for publicity campaign for the Commu- nity Childcare Subvention Scheme) Watermans Ltd (Print- €1,798.50 ing of leaflet for publicity campaign for the Commu- nity Childcare Subvention Scheme) Publicis Engage €27,515.10 Ltd(Advertising for Com- mission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes and Certain Related Matters) 2017 to date MediaVest (Print and radio €58,204.06 advertising for Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes and Cer- tain Related Matters) Public Relations

Year Payment To Expenditure 2012/2013 MKC Communications €39,595.00 service to assist with information and communications initiatives for the Children’s Referendum, Report of the Child Death Review Group and the Child & Family Agency. 2017 to date Mandy Johnston PRAdvice €4,950.00 regarding affordable childcare

Website Development

559 Questions - Written Answers Year Payment to Expenditure 2012 Fusio Ltd. (Website develop- €8,755.38 ment for Children’s Referen- dum) Penhouse Design (Design of €799.50 site for Children’s Referen- dum) Fusio Ltd. (Website develop- €6,827.00 ment for Inventory of Data Sources on Children’s Lives) Penhouse Design (Design €9,218.00 of site for Inventory of Data Sources on Children’s Lives) Fusio Ltd. (Update to the €492.00 Children’s Database) 2013 Fusio Ltd. (Website develop- €17,589.00 ment for Comhairle na nÓg) 2014/2015 Centre for Effective Services €7,000.00 (Development of website for Children and Young People’s Services Committees) Penhouse Design (Update of €3,259.50 Inventory of Data Sources on Children’s Lives site) 2016 Fusio Ltd. (Website de- €3,321.00 velopment for Access and Inclusion Model) 2017 to date Persuarsion Republic Com- €40,292.00 munications Ltd(parent and provider printed material and affordablechildcare.ie website)

11/07/2017WRWW00200Early Childhood Care and Education

11/07/2017WRWW00300716. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reason a school (details supplied) has not paid back the deposit to persons after the school removed their children from the school after a number of weeks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32696/17]

11/07/2017WRWW00400Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): While I am unable to give a reason why this particular childcare provider has not returned the deposit, I can confirm that following the receipt of correspondence in this office from the Deputy, a letter, dated 8th February, was issued to the service in question requesting that they return the deposit to the children’s parents.

This letter was then followed up with a phone call from a Department official on 29th March and a further email from my Department on 12th April.

The rules of the ECCE programme clearly state that a service may request a deposit from

560 11 July 2017 parents to secure a place but that this deposit must be returned to the parents once the registration is approved on the online registration system.

Given that it appears that provider has still not returned the fee, we will again remind them of the terms of the scheme.

11/07/2017WRWW00500Garda Vetting Applications

11/07/2017WRWW00600717. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the status of the Garda vetting being processed by Tusla for a person (details supplied) seeking to foster. [32936/17]

11/07/2017WRWW00700Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Garda Vetting is a key aspect of the application and approval process for prospective foster carers. HIQA have found that, in some areas, while all initial vetting of foster carers is in place, there is an issue in relation to the renewal of Garda clearance, which should take place every 3 years. HIQA has also highlighted the issue of vetting when the children of foster carers become adults (i.e. when they turn 18 ). Tusla are now monitoring vetting and renewal dates and are setting up databases to ensure compliance.

The vetting process itself is an operational matter for Tusla, and is carried out independently of my Department.

11/07/2017WRWW00800Affordable Childcare Scheme Establishment

11/07/2017WRWW00900718. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when she plans to furnish early years providers with details of the contracts her Department expects them to sign up to for the Government’s more affordable childcare scheme which is due to be rolled out in September 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32947/17]

11/07/2017WRWW01000Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the grant agreements (commonly referred to as contracts) between the Department and childcare providers have been available through the Pobal website since mid- May. At that time, My Department also issued via Pobal a notice to existing providers indicat- ing their availability.

I would note that the grant agreements reference two supplemental publications - the Pro- gramme Rules and the Financial Guidelines.

The rules of the schemes are currently being re-drafted to provide greater clarity and certainty based on feedback from the sector and from Pobal as the body overseeing compliance and administration. There are no fundamental changes to the rules of the scheme from those currently outlined and publicly available on the Department’s website, entitled “DCYA Child- care Funding Programme Information and Frequently Asked Questions”. It is expected that the rules will be published in their revised form in the next week or two.

The contracts also reference new Financial Guidelines which will provide further information on reporting requirements arising from the 2014 DPER Circular on the administration of grants. These guidelines will be prepared by an external body secured through a procurement process.

Services have always been required to keep adequate accounts, and to make these available 561 Questions - Written Answers to the Department on request. For 2017-18, the Department is requesting submission of these by default. It will likely be September/October when the guidelines referenced above are available. These guidelines will be a resource which will be accessible, user friendly and will include basic templates to highlight the type and level of information required.

11/07/2017WRWW01100Affordable Childcare Scheme

11/07/2017WRWW01200719. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to ensure that early child care providers offer the Government’s more affordable childcare scheme to parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32948/17]

11/07/2017WRWW01300Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): On 11th April, I made an announcement about a range of measures that will be introduced by my Department to make childcare more affordable for thousands of families throughout Ireland. This honours a key commitment in the Programme for Government.

These measures are being put in place to ensure that parents of up to 70,000 children due to benefit under the Affordable Childcare Scheme will be given the opportunity to avail of increased childcare subsidies from September. This will be achieved by significantly increasing the subsidy rates for the Community Childcare Subvention and the Training and Employment Childcare Schemes, in some instance by as much as 50%. There will also be a new universal, non-means tested childcare subsidy that will benefit parents with children aged from 6 months until they are eligible for ECCE.

While it is ultimately a matter for each individual service provider to make a decision on whether or not to enter into any contract, my Department has undertaken a coordinated online and postal information campaign targeting both childcare providers and parents with key information about the measures. My Department, along with Pobal and the City/County Childcare Committees also conducted public information “roadshows” to build awareness and encourage providers to sign up the September measures.

In addition, I have recently announced a payment for non-contact time to services who sign up to the September measures. The payment to providers is intended to make a contribution towards the administration and non-contact costs involved in providing my Department’s childcare programmes. In particular, the new funding recognises the time providers need to spend familiarising themselves with the new affordable childcare measures, including, signing contracts, meeting regulatory and compliance requirements and assisting parents with understanding how they can most benefit from the various childcare programmes available

The measure provides for a payment equivalent to an additional seven days’ funding for services. €3.5m has been allocated for this purpose.

I am very aware that delivering these enhanced childcare supports is only possible because of the commitment and co-operation of more than 4,000 childcare providers throughout the country. I want to acknowledge their continuing support in this regard.

11/07/2017WRWW01400Affordable Childcare Scheme

11/07/2017WRWW01500720. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to alleviate the amount of unpaid hours early child care providers will spend due to increased administration with the roll out of the Government’s more affordable childcare scheme; and if

562 11 July 2017 she will make a statement on the matter. [32949/17]

11/07/2017WRWW01600Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): I recognise that the childcare programmes require administration. I announced in June that an additional €3.5m in “non-contact” payments is being made available to services who sign up to the September 2017 more affordable childcare measures. This non-contact time payment for the period from September 2017 recognises the additional administrative demand on childcare providers in terms of:

- Time of provider required to familiarise themselves with new Grant Agreements.

- Participation in information events, consulting with City/County Childcare Committees (CCCs), and advisors associated with the childcare provider’s business (e.g. accountants, legal).

- Attending training sessions with the CCCs / Pobal on the schemes and PIP.

- Speaking to parents about the schemes and answering their questions.

- Administrative time to, for example, sign contracts and engage with Pobal’s IT system (PIP), register children on PIP, meet statutory obligations re data holding, make changes to published fee schedules as required by Pobal.

- Following up with parents who have not provided necessary documentation

- Verifying children’s attendance and meeting compliance obligations for all universal and targeted scheme beneficiaries.

The value of the payment will be equivalent to 7 days of the total value of registrations under CCS (including Universal CCS) and TEC programmes.

This is in addition to the payment currently available for drawdown by services on foot of Budget 2017, where I secured €14.5m towards “non-contact time”. I understand that the majority of services have now been paid, an average of over €2,000 under this scheme.

I would also like to highlight that when my Department prepares for each programme cycle, we try to appropriately balance the need to account for public monies with the administrative burden this places on childcare providers. We will continue to work towards the most efficient system in this regard balanced against those key requirements.

11/07/2017WRWW01700Affordable Childcare Scheme Implementation

11/07/2017WRWW01800721. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to provide parents of young children with information and details of the more affordable childcare scheme which is due to commence in September 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32950/17]

11/07/2017WRWW01900Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): Information, eligibility and rates of subvention are available on the website www.affordablechildcare.ie, which was set up by my Department. This website, which has received over 170,000 page views since it was launched in mid-May, also includes the contact details for their local city/ county Childcare Committee which provides support to parents and providers. Parents with children already in childcare should speak to their childcare provider as well.

563 Questions - Written Answers Following on from a coordinated online and postal information campaign targeting both childcare providers and parents with key information about the measures, my Department along with Pobal and the City/County Childcare Committees hosted public information “roadshows” to build awareness and encourage providers to sign up the September measures. Approximately 1000 service providers attended these Roadshow Events in Limerick, Mullingar, Cavan, Gal- way, Sligo, Dublin, Kilkenny and Cork. All the CCCs have also provided information events at the request of the DCYA and each has informed the Department of an increased number of contacts from parents regarding eligibility for the new measures

11/07/2017WRWW02000Affordable Childcare Scheme Data

11/07/2017WRWW02100722. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of children who will benefit in September 2017 from the Government’s new more affordable childcare scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32951/17]

11/07/2017WRWW02200Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (Deputy Katherine Zappone): On 11th April, I made an announcement that this September a range of measures will be introduced by my Department to make childcare more affordable for thousands of families throughout Ireland. These include:

- A new universal subsidy will be available for all children aged between 6 months and 3 years of age (or until they are eligible for ECCE e.g. 3 years 3 months) in registered childcare. This will amount to as much as €80 a month or €1,000 per year for children in full time childcare.

- Subsidies provided under existing childcare schemes, specifically the Community Child- care Subvention (CCS) and Training and Employment Childcare (TEC) Schemes will be increased significantly, in some cases by as much as 50%

Given the considerable increase in subsidies, particularly through the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCS) taking effect from September 2017, it is difficult to provide accurate estimates around uptake of the schemes. However we would reasonably expect the total number of beneficiaries by scheme to be as per the following table:

Scheme Expected number of beneficiaries Targeted CCS bands (current) 24,000 Targeted CCS bands (additional) 6,000 TEC (current) 7,000 Universal CCS 33,000 TOTAL 70,000 This should decrease the co-payment required by families who qualify and therefore make childcare more accessible and affordable to these families.

11/07/2017WRWW02300JobPath Data

11/07/2017WRWW02400723. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons who have been placed on the JobPath scheme since its inception in July 2015 and to date in 2017; the number of non-engagement cases which have arisen in the same period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32205/17]

564 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRWW02500768. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons to date who have been referred to JobPath since it commenced; the number of those who have gained full-time employment due to participation in JobPath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32911/17]

11/07/2017WRWW02600Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I propose to take Questions Nos. 723 and 768 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, JobPath is an employment activation service that supports people who are long-term unemployed and those most at risk of becoming long-term unemployed to secure and sustain paid employment. The service is delivered by two companies, Seetec and Turas Nua.

The JobPath service commenced operations in mid-2015 with and reached full State-wide delivery of service in July 2016 with 105,000 Jobseekers having commenced with the service by the end of June 2017. Of these, some 71,000 had started their engagement with the JobPath service by the end of 2016 with a further 34,000 customers having started their engagement with the service in the first 6 months of 2017.

Of the 105,000 customers who started with the JobPath service since its inception in July 2015, approximately 22,000 cases of customer non-engagement have arisen. Failure of a jobseeker to engage, without good cause, with the Department’s employment services can have consequences for the jobseeker’s payments. However it is important to note that the rules and processes for the application of a reduced rate of payment are the same across all of the De- partment’s employment services whether they are delivered directly by the Department’s own Intreo service or through its contracted services.

The process with regards to such decisions includes written/verbal warnings and an opportunity for the jobseeker to re-engage with the services prior to the application of a reduced payment rate. Where it is decided that a penalty rate is to be applied such a decision can only be made by departmental official (not contractor’s staff).

The majority of the 22,000 customers referenced above will have subsequently re-engaged with the service and after the completion of the processes outlined, reduced payment rate has only been applied in approximately 5,000 cases.

In relation to the number of participants to find full time employment, it is important to note that jobseekers may be supported through the service for up to 30 months - under the service jobseekers have access to a personal adviser (PA) who works with them over two phases. Dur- ing the first phase, of 12 months duration, the PA provides practical assistance in searching, preparing for, securing and sustaining employment. The second phase starts if the jobseeker is successful in finding work. During this phase the PA continues to work with the jobseeker for a further period of at least three months, and up to 12 months. In addition to the two phases jobseekers may also undertake training while with the service and this may extend the period the jobseeker is supported through the service for up to a further 6 months.

It will therefore take time to accumulate a sufficient number of clients (who have completed their engagement period with the service) for complete and robust outcome data to be available. With this in mind, it is intended that an econometric evaluation of the service will commence at the end of 2017. The Department has however commenced publishing cohort reports on the performance of the service, with the most recent report, which provides details of the performance outcomes for two jobseeker cohorts - Q3 and Q4 2015, having been published on the Department’s website in May 2017. The report is available at: www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/ JobPath.aspx. The next cohort performance report will be published on the departments web 565 Questions - Written Answers site later this month.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRWW02700Maternity Benefit Data

11/07/2017WRWW02800724. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons waiting for payment of maternity benefit, by county and region, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32064/17]

11/07/2017WRWW02900Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Maternity benefit is a payment for employed and self-employed pregnant women who satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions on their own insurance record. The benefit is payable for 26 weeks at a rate of €235 per week with possible increases for adult and child dependents.

An online claim facility provides customers with a convenient and effective method of submitting a maternity benefit claim and will facilitate the speedy determination of entitlement.

Processing of maternity benefit claims is up to date and there are no claims awaiting payment where the mother has commenced her maternity leave. Claims are processed in leave commencement date order and claims with a commencement in mid-July are currently being processed.

11/07/2017WRWW02925Paternity Benefit

11/07/2017WRWW02950725. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons waiting for payment of paternity benefit, by county and region, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32065/17]

11/07/2017WRWW02975Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Paternity benefit is paid for 2 weeks to employed and self-employed fathers who satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions. The benefit is payable at a rate of €235 per week with possible increases for adult and child dependents. The purpose of the benefit is to support new fathers to take time off work within the first 26 weeks following the birth of their child.

Application for paternity benefit is available online. This is the preferred method of application and customers should be encouraged to use this option as it facilitates the speedy determination of entitlement.

Processing of paternity benefit claims is up to date and there are no claims awaiting payment.

Claims are processed in leave commencement date order and claims with a commencement towards the end of July are currently being processed.

11/07/2017WRWW03000State Pension (Non-Contributory) Eligibility

11/07/2017WRWW03100726. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Social Protection if she is satisfied that the current means testing for self-employed persons seeking the State pension (non-contributory) is operating to standards that are fair and equitable; if she will review the means-test condition with regard to cash income for the State pension (non-contributory) in view of the 566 11 July 2017 difficulty it is posing for some persons, particularly the self-employed, women and farmers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32072/17]

11/07/2017WRWW03200Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Self-employed people pay PRSI at the class S rate of 4% and are covered for certain social insurance benefits and pensions, including the State pension (contributory). Employees and the self-employed who reach 66 years and who do not satisfy the conditions for entitlement to the State pension (contributory) are eligible to apply for the State pension (non-contributory). In addition, it may be more advantageous for people who have an underlying entitlement to a reduced weekly rate of State pension (contributory) to apply for the State pension (non-contributory) as the weekly rate of the latter pension may be higher.

The State pension (non-contributory payment) is a means tested payment and the weekly rate payable is dependent on the means of each claimant. Account is taken in the means test of the value of property (other than the family home) and capital the person may have as well as cash income such as earnings from employment or self-employment, occupational pensions, foreign social security pensions and so on.

Where a claimant for the State pension (non-contributory) is in employment, a weekly earnings disregard of €200 per week applies. This disregard was intended to facilitate non-contributory pensioners who wish to continue working, or to re-enter the workforce. A similar disregard does not apply in the case of income from self-employment including income from farming.

However, it should be noted that the means assessment for the pension in question fully allows for “any expenses necessarily incurred in carrying on any form of self-employment ”. There is no exhaustive list of all expenses allowed in self-employed cases, since expenses vary with the nature and extent of the self-employment.

However, the following are the main allowable expenses in most instances, as set out in the means guidelines available on the Departmental website, www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/Means- Assessment.aspx:

- Materials (supplies costs)

- Motor running costs (portion applicable to business)

- Depreciation of machinery or equipment

- Insurance relating to the business

- Telephone (portion applicable to business)

- Lighting and Heating (for business and not domestic use)

- Advertising

- Bank Charges

- Stationery

- Labour Costs

- Any other costs associated with running the business.

These arrangements apply to all self-employed claimants for the State pension (non-contributory) as well as other means tested welfare schemes. The rules applying to the State pension (non-contributory) do not prohibit individuals engaging in any form of self-employment; it is 567 Questions - Written Answers the means available from the net profit from such self-employment (after allowing expenses) which determines the rate of pension payable, if any.

It should also be noted that the first €30 per week means (from any source including self- employment) is disregarded for State pension non-contributory purposes (this amount is doubled in the case of a couple).

Furthermore, a farmer in receipt of the State Pension (non-contributory) can also benefit from the disregard that exists for certain farm payments administered by the Minister for Agri- culture, Food and the Marine, such as the Agri-Environment Options Scheme. The first €2,540 of this and similar payments is fully disregarded, with 50% of the remainder assessed as means.

There are currently no plans to amend the means assessment for the State Pension (non- contributory) scheme. Any such changes to the current means testing arrangements for self- employed pensioners generally would have to be considered in the overall policy and budgetary context.

11/07/2017WRWW03300Disability Support Services

11/07/2017WRWW03400727. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the level of funding allocated to the reasonable accommodation fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32079/17]

11/07/2017WRWW03500Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): My Department provides a range of grants under the Reasonable Accommodation Fund and the Disability Awareness Training Support Scheme to assist employers in the private sector to take appropriate measures to enable a person with a disability/impairment to have access to employment. The Reasonable Accommodation Fund helps employers take appropriate measures to enable a person with a disability to have access to employment by providing the following grants and schemes: the Workplace Equipment/Adaptation Grant, the Personal Reader Grant, the Job Interview Interpreter Grant and the Employee Retention Grant. The Disability Aware- ness Training Support Scheme assists the integration of disabled people into the workplace and helps to eliminate mistaken perceptions about them.

Expenditure in 2017 on the Reasonable Accommodation Fund and the Disability Awareness Training Support Scheme is estimated at €400,000.

11/07/2017WRWW03600State Pension (Contributory) Eligibility

11/07/2017WRWW03700728. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Social Protection the options available to persons who have not attained sufficient contributions towards their contributory pensions; the circumstances under which PRSI contributions can be refunded; if a mechanism is in place to provide a person with a pro rata pension based on the number of contributions made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32107/17]

11/07/2017WRWW03800Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Where a person is aged 66 or over does not satisfy the conditions to qualify for a State pension (contributory), or qualifies for less than the maximum rate, they may instead qualify for one the following:

- The means-tested State pension (non-contributory). The maximum personal rate of this pension is €227, which may be payable if their means are no more than €30 per week. If they have means of up to €252.50, a reduced rate may be payable. A living alone allowance of €9 568 11 July 2017 may also be paid, where applicable. Where a couple live together, they may both receive the €227 rate (i.e. €454 between them) if they satisfy the means test.

- If a spouse receives the State pension (contributory), the other spouse may receive a payment, known as an increase for qualified adult (IQA), which may be up to €213.50 per week.

- If widowed, they may qualify for a widow’s contributory pension, which they may claim either based on their spouses or their own social insurance record. The qualifying conditions for this require fewer contributions paid (260) than the State pension (contributory), and the maximum personal rate for those aged 66 or over is €238.30, i.e. the same as the maximum rate of the SPC, with allowances (notably the Living Alone Allowance) payable where applicable.

Where a person qualifies for more than one of the above payments, they are paid the pension that is most advantageous to them.

Refunds of PRSI generally arise when contributions from employers and employees have been paid in error. There are a number of reasons why a person might be paying the wrong PRSI rate, the most common of which is where an employee over 66 continues working and pays PRSI, where there is no requirement to do so.

Another case is contributors, who enter insurable employment, either as employees or self- employed, after they have attained the age of 56. If they have no entitlement to a State Pension (Contributory or Non Contributory) then the pension element of the contributions paid by both employed and self-employed contributors may be refunded.

Since 1961, when contributory pensions were introduced, the average contributions test has been used in calculating the rate of pension entitlement. Entitlement is banded, with the maximum rate payable to those with a yearly average of 48-52 contributions, and the minimum rate payable to those with a yearly average in the range of 10-14 contributions per year.

The National Pensions Framework (2010) proposed that a “Total Contributions Approach” (TCA) should replace the yearly average approach for new pensioners from 2020. The aim of this approach is to make the rate of contributory pension more closely match contributions made by a person. Officials of my Department are currently working on the detailed development of the TCA with a view to making proposals for consideration later in the year. This is a very significant reform with considerable legal, administrative, and technical elements in its implementation. An important element in the final design of the scheme will be the position of people who have gaps in their contribution records for various reasons, and this factor is being considered very carefully in developing this reform.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRWW03900Social Welfare Appeals

11/07/2017WRWW04000729. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will expedite an appeal by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32120/17]

11/07/2017WRWW04100Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 31st May 2017. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought from the Department of Social Protection. These papers have been received in the Social Welfare Ap- peals Office on 8th June 2017 and the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer who will make

569 Questions - Written Answers a summary decision on the appeal based on documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Pro- tection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRWW04200Bereavement Grant

11/07/2017WRWW04300730. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated annual cost of restoring the bereavement grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32123/17]

11/07/2017WRWW04400Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): In recent Budgets my Depart- ment has protected primary social welfare rates. Abolishing the bereavement grant provided a significant annual saving and allowed my Department to protect other core social welfare payments such as the State pension.

The number of bereavement grant claims in 2013 was 23,716, and this represented an increase of approximately 4% on 2012. Based on a similar yearly increase each year since 2013, it is estimated that the number of bereavement grant claims that might arise in 2018, were the scheme to be re-introduced, would be in the region of 28,858, and this number would likely increase in future years. If there were 28,858 such grants made in 2018, at a rate of €850 each, the cost would be €24.53 million.

Any decision to reinstate the Bereavement Grant would have to be considered in the context of overall budgetary negotiations.

It’s worth noting that there are a range of supports available for people following bereavement which provide more significant support than the grant. These include weekly paid widow’s, widower’s or surviving civil partner’s (contributory and non-contributory) pensions, which are based on contributions or a means test, and a once-off widowed or surviving civil partner grant of €6,000 where there is a dependent child. A number of social welfare payments, including State pension, continue in payment for six weeks following a death. In Budget 2016, the Gov- ernment increased the payment after death period to 12 weeks for carer’s allowance. Guardian payments are available where someone cares for an orphaned child. A special funeral grant of €850 is paid where a person dies because of an accident at work or occupational disease.

Additionally, the supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) scheme provides assistance to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their needs and those of their dependants. Under the SWA scheme, the Department of Social Protection may make a single exceptional needs payment (ENP) to help meet essential, once-off and unforeseen expenditure which a person could not reasonably be expected to meet from their weekly income, which may include help with funeral and burial expenses. The Government has provided €31.5 million for exceptional and urgent needs payments in 2017.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRWW04500Social Welfare Fraud

570 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRWW04600731. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to bring in new measures to tackle social welfare fraud; the nature of these measures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32126/17]

11/07/2017WRWW04700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): At the outset, it is important to say that the majority of people in receipt of a payment from my Department receive what they are entitled to. Nevertheless, my Department recognises that abuse of the welfare system is an ongoing reality and must be tackled. Control and anti-fraud measures are set out in the Depart- ment’s Compliance and Anti-Fraud Strategy 2014 – 2018 and are designed to prevent, deter and detect fraud and to ensure effective oversight of schemes and recovery of any sums overpaid. The annual control implementation report 2016 and target statement for 2017 is published on the Department’s website – www.welfare.ie.

My Department plans to carry out 950,000 entitlement reviews, inspections and investigations over the course of 2017. The objective is to ensure that each claimant is receiving their full entitlements and that any wrongful claiming is identified. The Deputy will be aware that this work identified some €41 million in fraud overpayments in 2016.

Work will also continue on a number of measures to prevent fraud from entering the social welfare system. The continued roll-out of the Public Services Card has considerably reduced the potential for identity fraud. The use of data analytics software and techniques, improved data-matching capacity and data-sharing arrangements, both internally and with the Revenue Commissioners and with other state agencies, has greatly improved early detection of earnings from sources not reported by claimants to the Department.

A new debt management system became operational at the end of 2014 and has supported the roll-out of improved debt management capacity and the recovery of overpayments. Staff who are engaged in claim reviews and investigations receive training to identify instances of fraudulent claiming. Overall, my Department continues to improve its technical ability to identify risks, to ensure cross-referencing of information held in respect of claimants, to reinforce its fraud prevention work and to use the statutory powers granted to it by the Oireachtas.

Members of the public also play an important role in supporting anti-fraud activities. In the first six months of this year, the Department has received some 11,000 reports from concerned members of the public. The recent fraud awareness campaign has helped to highlight the positive role that members of the public can play in supporting the Department to protect the social welfare system. Since the launch of the campaign on 18 April, the recorded number of reports received has exceeded 6,000 compared to approx. 4,200 for a similar period in 2016.

This year, the Department also expects to finalise fraud and error surveys for the Supplemen- tary Welfare Allowance, Carers’ Allowance and Back to Work Enterprise Allowance schemes and to commence survey work on the State Pension Non-contributory scheme.

Finally, the Deputy will be aware that the recently published Social Welfare, Pensions and Civil Registration Bill 2017 includes legislative proposals to publish the names of persons who are convicted of social welfare fraud.

Overall, therefore, my Department adopts a range of measures to deter, detect and prevent fraud and these are kept under ongoing review, in light of changing behaviours and patterns.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRXX00200Carer’s Allowance Applications

571 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRXX00300732. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made in respect of two carer’s allowance applications submitted by a person (details supplied) in County Galway; the reason for the delay in making a decision on this application in view of the fact that the application has been lodged since January 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32147/17]

11/07/2017WRXX00400Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I confirm that my department received two applications for carer’s allowance (CA) from the person concerned on 17 January 2017.

The applications were awarded to the person concerned on 11 July 2017 and the first payment will issue to their nominated bank account on 20 July 2017.

Arrears of carer’s allowance due from 19 January 2017 to 19 July 2017 will issue shortly.

The person concerned was notified on 11 July 2017 of this decision, the reason for it and of their right of review and appeal.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRXX00500Carer’s Allowance Appeals

11/07/2017WRXX00600733. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of an oral hearing for a carer’s allowance application by a person (details supplied). [32174/17]

11/07/2017WRXX00700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who has decided to hold an oral hearing in this case in early August 2017. The person concerned will be notified shortly of the arrangements for the hearing.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRXX00800Community Employment Schemes Review

11/07/2017WRXX00900734. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the timeframe for the changes to community employment schemes announced by the previous Minister for Social Protection to come into effect; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32193/17]

11/07/2017WRXX01000Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Following the publication of my Department’s Report - An Analysis of the Community Employment Programme- earlier in the year, the Government approved a number of changes to the terms and conditions around participation on Community Employment (CE). The main purpose of these changes is to broaden the availability of CE to a greater number of people on the live register and to standardise other conditions around the length of time a person can participate on the programme.

572 11 July 2017 While participants between 21 and 55 years are entitled to one year on the programme, this can be extended by up to 2 more years if they are engaged in a recognised training or education award that is helping them progress towards employment. All CE participants age 55 and over can now avail of 3 consecutive years on a CE scheme. There will be an overall lifetime limit of 6 years from 2007 (or 7 years if on a disability payment).

Following consultation workshops with stakeholders throughout the country, I approved the implementation of these changes with effect from Monday 3rd July 2017.

Further changes which will be progressed over the coming months include the roll-out of the ‘two strand approach’ of activation and social inclusion in terms of how CE places are categorised. In addition, a review of the rules governing the participation of older people on schemes is being undertaken which I expect will be completed by the early autumn.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRXX01100Consultancy Contracts Expenditure

11/07/2017WRXX01200735. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the amount spent by her Department on external consultancy reports between May 2016 and June 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32194/17]

11/07/2017WRXX01300Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The table sets out the external consultancy reports in relation to which expenditure was incurred by my Department in the period from May 2016 and June 2017.

External Consultancy Report Amount spent (€) Health & Safety Risk Audit - Longford €1,224 Headquarters and Intreo Office Assessment of Indoor Air Quality - Long- €1,913 ford Headquarters Joint Research Programme on Retirement €61,500 Data Protection – General Data Protection €3,444 Regulations (GDPR) Scoping Jobseeker and JobPath Customer Satisfac- €142,156 tion Surveys Review of the Predictive Analytic Model- €9,471 ling Solutions. Back to Education Allowance Qualitative €50,670 Study Review of the Local Employment Services €87,232 and Job Club services TOTAL €357,610

11/07/2017WRXX01400Money Advice and Budgeting Service

11/07/2017WRXX01500736. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has given consideration to the Dáil Éireann motion which called for the restructuring of MABS and CIS to be halted and a report from the Joint Committee on Social Protection which advocated for same; her plans to proceed with the restructuring process regardless of this motion and report; and if

573 Questions - Written Answers she will make a statement on the matter. [32195/17]

11/07/2017WRXX01600Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): As the Deputy is aware, the Citizens Information Board (CIB) has statutory responsibility for the Money Advice and Bud- geting Service (MABS) and the Citizens Information Services (CIS). In November 2014 the Board of the Citizens Information Board decided to restructure the local CIS/MABS networks. In October 2016 the Board decided that the new structure should be regionally based. In Feb- ruary 2017 the Board adopted a recommendation that the current structure of ninety three individual local companies would be replaced by sixteen regional companies, comprising eight CIS and eight MABS boards.

As a statutory body, the Board has the sole right to make decisions on its day to day operations as it sees fit. It would not be lawful or appropriate for me, as Minister, to seek to intervene in such a decision taken by the Board.

The aim of the change is to improve the effectiveness of the control environment, financial management, and governance of CIS and MABS service networks. I know that CIB has not taken this operational decision lightly. It follows almost five years of analysis and consideration of options and extensive consultation with all stakeholders.

The reorganisation process is expected to take up to two years to complete. An implementation group has been established by CIB to assist with this process, membership of which will evolve in line with specific expertise requirements as the project progresses. CIB has held a number of regional consultations on implementation of the new structure during the month of May, attended by 350 representatives of boards, management, staff and volunteers of local services. Following on from these sessions, CIB in recent days has issued a questionnaire to all board members, staff, managers and volunteers across CIS and MABS companies to capture further views and feedback, particularly from those who, for one reason or another, could not attend the sessions held in May.

On foot of a recent procurement exercise, CIB is expected to shortly appoint an independent external provider to undertake a full Cost Benefit Analysis on the new regional model.

CIB is seeking to implement the Board’s decision in a consultative way and is making genuine efforts to allay concerns of staff and boards of local services in relation to the operation of the new structure.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRXX01700Social Welfare Appeals Data

11/07/2017WRXX01800737. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of social welfare appeals lodged in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017, in tabular form; the percentage of appeals which were successful; the average waiting time in these years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32196/17]

11/07/2017WRXX01900Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The tables provide the details which have been requested by the Deputy from 2012 to date in 2017.

The figures provided in the tables for appeals which had a favourable outcome for the appellant relate to appeals which were either allowed in full or in part by an Appeals Officer, or which were resolved by way of a revised decision in favour of the appellant by a Deciding Of- ficer/Designated Person.

574 11 July 2017 There are a number of reasons why a decision which was refused at first instance might be successful on appeal and it is not necessarily the case that the first decision was incorrect. It is often the case that new evidence is provided with an appeal and that, as a result, the original decision may be revised by the Deciding Officer or Designated Person. This was the case in 35 per cent of favourable appeal outcomes in 2015 (5,200 cases), some 37 per cent of favourable appeal outcomes in 2016 (5,100 cases) and some 39.8% of favourable appeals to date in 2017 (2,253 cases).

Where the decision was not revised by the Department in light of the appeal contentions, further evidence is often provided by the appellant as the appeal process proceeds and in addition, the Appeals Officer may gain insights when they meet the appellant in person at oral hearing which may influence the outcome of the appeal.

The time taken to process an appeal reflects all aspects of the appeal process including the time spent in the Department preparing the appeal submission. The quasi-judicial nature of the system impacts on appeal processing times which are proportionate to the complexity of many of the issues under appeal which often require a high level of judgement, in addition to the need to ensure due process and natural justice.

Overall appeal processing times peaked in 2011/2012 and have improved year on year since then. For example, the average time taken to determine an appeal requiring an oral hearing reduced from 52.5 weeks in 2011 to 28.6 weeks in 2014, 25.5 weeks in 2015, 24.1 weeks in 2016 and 25 weeks to date in 2017. The average time taken to finalise an appeal decided by way of a summary decision reduced from 25.1 weeks in 2011 to 21.1 weeks in 2014, 18.1 weeks in 2015, 17.6 weeks in 2016 and 18.5 weeks to date in 2017.

Notwithstanding these improvements, the Chief Appeals Officer has advised me that appeal processing times will continue to be a priority for her office and will continue to be monitored on an ongoing basis.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Appeal Receipts and Percentage of Favourable Decisions of Appeals Finalised 2012 – 2017

Appeal Re- Appeals Favourable Appeals Dis- Withdrawn ceipts Finalised Decisions allowed 2012 35,484 32,558 50.4% 42.6% 7.0% 2013 32,777 38,421 55.0% 39.0% 6.0% 2014 26,069 31,211 56.5% 37.7% 5.8% 2015 24,475 25,406 58.8% 36.1% 5.1% 2016 22,461 23,220 59.2% 35.9% 4.9% 2017 10,481 9,707 58.4% 35.5% 6.2% Appeal Processing Times 2012– 2017

Average processing times Average processing times (weeks)Summary Decisions (weeks)Oral Hearings 2012 27.8 39.5 2013 25.8 33.9 2014 21.1 28.6 2015 18.1 25.5 2016 17.6 24.1 575 Questions - Written Answers Average processing times Average processing times (weeks)Summary Decisions (weeks)Oral Hearings 2017 (to 30/6/2017) 18.5 25.0

11/07/2017WRXX02000Social Welfare Appeals Data

11/07/2017WRXX02100738. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the average waiting time in 2017 in respect of a decision for all social welfare payments paid on a weekly basis; the average waiting time for appeal for each of these payments in cases in which there is no oral hearing and an oral hearing respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32197/17]

11/07/2017WRXX02200Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The information requested by the Deputy is detailed in the tables.

Social Welfare claims by average waiting times 31 May 2017

Scheme Average Waiting time(weeks) Jobseeker’s Benefit 1 Jobseeker’s Allowance 2 One-Parent Family Payment 5 State Pension Contributory 5 Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil 1 Partner’s Contributory Pension State Pension Non-Contributory 12 Free Travel 2 Domiciliary Care Allowance 18 Supplementary Welfare Allowance 1 Treatment Benefit 6 Maternity Benefit 6* Paternity Benefit 6* Family Income Supplement (New) 3 Carer’s Allowance 13 Carer’s Benefit 7 Disability Allowance 12 Invalidity Pension 7 Illness Benefit 1 Occupational Injury Benefit 1 *As at end-April 2017 Appeal processing times 01 January 2017- 31 May 2017

Average processing times Average processing times (weeks)Summary Decisions (weeks)Oral Hearings Carers Allowance 20.5 22.8 Carers Benefit 16.3 21.3 Disability Allowance 16.3 21.2 Illness Benefit 27.5 31.0 Domiciliary Care Allowance 24.1 30.4 576 11 July 2017 Average processing times Average processing times (weeks)Summary Decisions (weeks)Oral Hearings Invalidity Pension 15.8 20.3 State Pension (Contributory) 24.9 37.3 State Pension (Non-Contrib- 21.6 34.3 utory) Jobseeker’s Allowance 16.3 24.6 (Means) Jobseeker’s Allowance 15.7 24.3 Jobseeker’s Benefit 15.6 17.9

11/07/2017WRXX02300Domiciliary Care Allowance Applications

11/07/2017WRXX02400739. Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 1989 of 20 June 2017, when an application for domiciliary care allowance will be processed for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32210/17]

11/07/2017WRXX02500Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Department is currently experiencing delays in the processing of Domiciliary Care Allow- ance (DCA) claims. We are extremely sorry for any worry or concern this may cause to parents/ guardians of children with additional care needs. At present it is taking 20 weeks on average to finalise an application. Applications are processed in date of receipt order. There are a number of factors that have contributed to the extended time required to process claims;

First, there is a significant increase in the volume of applications being received. The numbers applying for DCA have increased significantly since 2009, when the Department took over administration of the scheme from the HSE. The year on year increase in volumes over recent years has consistently been in the 15-20% range due to an increase in population and more awareness of the scheme. Over 1,000 claims were received in May, along with a further 700 in June; whereas the average would have been 400 per month a few years ago.

Secondly, following a High Court ruling in 2016, there is now a need for the Department’s medical assessors to provide the deciding officer with a more detailed opinion on the child’s eligibility for the scheme and for the deciding officer in turn to provide more detailed reasons for their decision when communicating this to the customer. These factors have resulted in the time taken to finalise applications increasing significantly and as a result the numbers being processed have reduced and the timescale to finalise each application has increased

Corrective actions are being taken, with additional deciding officers assigned to work on the scheme. Once these deciding officers become fully operational, the increase in claim processing capacity should allow for an improvement in processing times.

An application for DCA in respect of this child was received in the Department on the 22nd February 2017. While it is not feasible to provide an exact date of when a particular application will be finalised, the applications currently being finalised were received in early February 2017. This application will be considered by a Deciding Officer and the decision notified as soon as possible.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

577 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRXX02600Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRXX02700740. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Social Protection the unallocated spend within her Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within her Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services or changes to costs within her Depart- ment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32220/17]

11/07/2017WRXX02800741. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Social Protection the unallocated spend within her Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within her Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for goods and services and or changes to costs within her Department and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32239/17]

11/07/2017WRXX02900Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I propose to take Questions Nos. 740 and 741 together.

The 2017 Revised Estimates Volume provides for a total of €19.854 billion for expenditure on the schemes, services and administration of the Department of Social Protection. This entire sum is allocated by sub-head and there is no unallocated amount. The 2017 allocations by sub- head are the amounts which were estimated late last year to be those required for this year. It should be noted, however, that most of the schemes operated by my Department are demand driven and, as a result, the final out-turn is dependent on a wide range of factors including developments in the wider economy and the labour market, in particular.

The Budget Day estimates published last October provide for expenditure of €19. 936 billion in 2018. The Department is currently preparing its existing level of service requirement for 2018. This will take into account existing and anticipated trends in recipient numbers, average payment values, the impact of carryover costs from the Budget 2017 measures, the number of pay-days (by scheme) in 2018, increases or decreases in administration costs as well as projected demographic and labour market impacts. Accordingly, it should be noted that expenditure on any given scheme can rise or fall in any given year because of these factors (and that each individual factor can have either a negative or positive impact on expenditure).

Given the scale of overall expenditure and the wide range of schemes operated this is a complex and time consuming task and it is too early to predict at this stage what the actual requirement for 2018 will be. The process underway will feed into the Estimates and Budgetary process later this year.

11/07/2017WRXX03100Rent Supplement Scheme Data

11/07/2017WRXX03200742. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated cost of increasing rent supplement by 20% in counties Dublin and Cork. [32331/17]

11/07/2017WRXX03300743. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated cost of creating new rent supplement thresholds at sub-county levels for all local electoral areas that are designated as rent-pressure zones and allowing a 10% increase in thresholds in these new areas. [32332/17]

11/07/2017WRXX03400746. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of households in receipt of rent supplement in each respective year since it was introduced to date in 2017. [32502/17]

578 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRXX03500747. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of new recipients of rent supplement in each respective year since it was introduced to date in 2017. [32503/17]

11/07/2017WRXX03600Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I propose to take Questions Nos. 742, 743, 746 and 747 together.

Rent supplement plays a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme supporting approximately 41,200 recipients for which the Government has provided €253 million for in 2017.

The Department carried out a review of the rent limits in line with the commitments contained in the Programme for a Partnership Government and increased limits were introduced in all areas of the country with effect from 1 July 2016. The rent limit review conducted represents a realignment of the maximum rent limits with agreed rents generally benchmarked against the 35th percentile of those rents registered with the Residential Tenancies Board.

Initial analysis shows that increasing rent limits by 20%, for almost 23,000 rent supplement recipients in Dublin and Cork would result in a full year cost of approximately €39 million once fully implemented.

Analysis of rent supplement tenancies by local electoral area is not possible given current data collection methodologies for rent supplement claims, however, increasing rent limits by 10% for those counties with designated Rent Pressure Zones, namely: Cork; Dublin; Galway; Kildare; Meath; and Wicklow would result in a full year cost of approximately €22.5 million once fully implemented.

As the Deputy will be aware the strategic policy direction of the Department is to return rent supplement to its original purpose of being a short-term income support following the nationwide rollout of the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme. Any further review of prescribed rent limits would have to be considered in a budgetary context and in conjunction with my colleague, the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government.

Statistics on rent supplement recipients since 1999 are provided in the attached tabular statement along with statistics in relation to rent supplement awards from 2014 to date, information for earlier years is not readily available.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Table 1: Rent Supplement - Recipient Numbers: 1999 to Present

Year Recipients % Change 1999 41,873 2000 42,683 1.90% 2001 45,028 5.50% 2002 54,213 20.40% 2003 59,976 10.60% 2004 57,874 3.50% 2005 60,176 4.00% 2006 59,861 -0.50% 2007 59,726 -0.20% 2008 74,038 24.00% 2009 93,030 25.70% 579 Questions - Written Answers Year Recipients % Change 2010 97,260 4.50% 2011 96,803 -0.50% 2012 87,684 -9.40% 2013 79,788 -9.00% 2014 71,533 -10.30% 2015 61,247 -14.30% 2016 48,041 -21.60% 2017 41,240* *As at end June 2017

Table 2: Rent Supplement – New Awards 2014 to end June 2017

Year No. of New Awards 2014 27,389 2015 20,186 2016 13,622 End June 2017 500

11/07/2017WRXX03800Social Welfare Benefits Data

11/07/2017WRXX03900744. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications currently being assessed for each social welfare payment; the average turnaround time in 2017; the expected date a decision would be made in respect of an application lodged in July 2017, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32355/17]

11/07/2017WRXX04000Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The information requested by the Deputy is detailed in the table.

Scheme Pending Start of May 2017 Average Time To Award (weeks) (Jan – May 2017) Jobseeker’s Benefit 3,094 1 Jobseeker’s Allowance 6,129 2 One-Parent Family Payment 1,171 6 State Pension Contributory 3,533 6 (Dom) Widow(er)’s Contributory 300 1 Pension State Pension Non-Contrib- 2,321 11 utory Household Benefits 2,564 2 Free Travel 10 2 Domiciliary Care Allowance 2,649 16 Supplementary Welfare Al- 2,841 1 lowance Child Benefit (Domestic & 1,485 3 FRA)

580 11 July 2017 Scheme Pending Start of May 2017 Average Time To Award (weeks) (Jan – May 2017) Child Benefit (EU Regula- 1,030 30 tion) Treatment Benefit 31,929 6 Maternity Benefit 5,398 6 Paternity Benefit 1,840 6 Family Income Supplement 3,707 3 (New) Carer’s Allowance 4,512 12 Disability Allowance 5,991 12 Invalidity Pension 1,835 7 Illness Benefit 3,128 1 Occupational Injury Benefit 150 1

11/07/2017WRXX04100Illness Benefit Eligibility

11/07/2017WRXX04200745. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection when extra supports will be made available to the self-employed; if the self-employed will become eligible for the illness benefit in addition to the invalidity pension; the short-term benefits available to self-employed people who become ill and are unable to work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32445/17]

11/07/2017WRXX04300Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): Self-employed workers will be eligible to apply for invalidity pension from December 2017. This is a major reform as self-employed people could have access to income support without having to go through a means test, if they become permanently incapable of work as a result of an illness or disability.

Since March 2017, self-employed people have access to the treatment benefit scheme which includes free eye and dental exams, and contributions towards the cost of hearing aids. This measure benefits over 300,000 self-employed workers and their dependants. From October 2017, treatment benefit entitlements will also be extended so as to provide further dental and optical benefits for both the self-employed and employees.

As part of an examination of a further extension of illness benefits to self-employed people, I will take account of the recently published results of survey of self-employed workers, which indicated that self-employed people are open to paying a higher rate of social insurance in return for additional benefits, and of the forthcoming actuarial review of the social insurance fund, which will include an examination of the cost of extending specific benefits to the self-employed. Together these two reports will inform the development of benefits for self- employed people.

I hope this clarifies matters for the Deputy.

Questions Nos. 746 and 747 answered with Question No. 742.

11/07/2017WRYY00300Disability Allowance Applications

11/07/2017WRYY00400748. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of an ap- 581 Questions - Written Answers plication for disability allowance by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32524/17]

11/07/2017WRYY00500Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): I confirm that my Department received an application for disability allowance from this gentle- man on 30 May 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.

11/07/2017WRYY00600Exceptional Needs Payment Data

11/07/2017WRYY00700749. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the amount paid out by her Department under the exceptional needs payment in each of the past four years, by county, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32533/17]

11/07/2017WRYY00800750. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications made to her Department for assistance in covering the cost of a funeral in each of the past four years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32534/17]

11/07/2017WRYY00900766. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the budget for exceptional needs payment in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32909/17]

11/07/2017WRYY01000767. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the expenditure on exceptional needs payments in each of the years 2012 to 2016 and to date in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32910/17]

11/07/2017WRYY01100Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I propose to take Questions Nos. 749, 750, 766 and 767 together.

Under the supplementary welfare allowance (SWA) scheme, the Department may make a single exceptional needs payment (ENP) to help meet essential, once-off and unforeseen expenditure which a person could not reasonably be expected to meet out of their weekly income. The Government has provided €31.5 million for exceptional and urgent needs payments in 2017.

The ENP scheme is demand led and provides assistance to those with exceptional needs taking into account the requirements of the legislation and all the relevant circumstances of the case in order to ensure that the payments target those most in need of assistance. Details of the Revised Estimate allocation and expenditure under the ENP and UNP schemes for 2012 to 2017 are set out in the following tabular statement. The Department does not maintain details of expenditure by county.

An application can be made under the ENP scheme for assistance with funeral and burial expenses where there is an inability to pay these costs, in part or in full, by the family of the deceased person without causing hardship. Statistics are maintained relating to payments under the ENP scheme, however they are not maintained on the number of applications or the outcome of those applications. The attached tabular statement sets out the number of ENPs made in respect of funeral and burial costs for the years 2013 to 2016.

582 11 July 2017 I can assure the Deputies that the ENP scheme is kept under review to ensure that it continues to support those most in need of assistance. Any persons who consider that they have an entitlement to an ENP should contact my Department.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputies.

Table 1: Exchequer Provision for ENP & UNP schemes 2012 to 2017

Year Estimate Provision(million) Outturn(million) 2012 €51.6 €52.7 2013 €47.5 €35.7 2014 €31.3 €31.3 2015 €30.4 €31.1 2016 €30.3 €32.2* 2017 €31.5 €17.6 (End June) * 2016 Outturn is provisional

Table 2: Number of ENPs in respect of Funeral and Burial costs in 2013 - 2016

Year 2013 2014 2015 2016 Funeral & 3,199 2,953 3,033 2,937 Burial Costs

11/07/2017WRYY01300Living Wage Expenditure

11/07/2017WRYY01400751. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed or in agencies funded by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32568/17]

11/07/2017WRYY01500Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): My Department has undertaken no costing of the initiative outlined by the Deputy as the introduction of any such scheme would necessarily have to take place on a cross Governmental basis and costs determined centrally as part of the estimates budgetary process. On a purely indicative basis it is not anticipated that the introduction of such a scheme in my own Department would incur significant cost as the majority of staff are on salary points above that mentioned by the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRYY01600Fuel Allowance Data

11/07/2017WRYY01700752. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated cost in 2018 if the fuel allowance was increased by €4 per week and €5 per week respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32589/17]

11/07/2017WRYY01800Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The full year cost of increasing the fuel allowance, currently payable at €22.50 per week, by €4 per week and €5 per week for the duration of the fuel season is estimated to be €40.7 million and €50.9 million respectively in 2018.

It should be noted that these costings are subject to change over the coming months in the context of emerging trends and associated revision of the estimated numbers of recipients for 2018.

583 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRYY01900Disability Services Provision

11/07/2017WRYY02000753. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans for the development of independent advocacy services to support vulnerable persons in view of the enactment of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015 and the planned Disability (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2016; her further plans to prepare for the implementation of the safeguarding of vulnerable adults Bill 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32612/17]

11/07/2017WRYY02100Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Citizens Information Board (CIB) is the statutory body responsible for supporting the provision of information, advice (including money and budgeting advice) and advocacy services to all citizens on a wide range of public and social services. One of the functions of the CIB, as defined in the Comhairle Act 2000 and the Citizens Information Act 2007, is to directly provide or support the provision of advocacy services to individuals and in particular to assist those with a disability, to identify and understand their needs and options, in order to secure their entitlement to social services.

Advocacy services are provided by the nationwide network of Citizens Information Ser- vices (CIS), funded and supported by CIB. CIS provides free, impartial and confidential information to the public on a range of social and public services. CIS supports clients, including those who may have a disability, to act on their own behalf wherever possible (self-advocacy). CIS also advocates directly on behalf of clients.

In 2011, the National Advocacy Service (NAS) was established under the Citizens Informa- tion Board to provide an independent, confidential, and free representative advocacy service to vulnerable people with disabilities who cannot self-advocate, while supporting others to use mainstream services. NAS has a particular remit for people with disabilities who are isolated from their community and services, have communication differences, are inappropriately accommodated, live in residential services, attend day services or have limited informal or natural supports. NAS is fully funded and supported by the Citizens Information Board (CIB) and has been allocated an operational grant of €3.1 million for 2017.

NAS is a member of the expert group set up by the National Disability Authority to develop draft Codes of Practice under the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015. My Depart- ment is represented on this Group separately.

My Department is also represented on the National Safeguarding Committee and plays an active role on the sub-group of this Committee dealing with State payments to vulnerable adults.

With a view to progressing the enactment of the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act 2015, and the Adult Safeguarding Bill, 2017, a working group has been established within my Department to examine and make recommendations on:

- processes for appointing ‘agents’ to act on behalf of a recipient or beneficiary of social welfare payments, in circumstances where the recipient is certified by a registered medical practitioner to be a person who is, or is likely to soon become, unable (for the time being) to manage his or her own financial affairs;

- reviewing existing agency arrangements;

- dealing with specific complaints regarding named agents where this arises (with the involvement of relevant external agencies as necessary); and

584 11 July 2017 - general measures necessary for the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and continuing to raise awareness of staff on the safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults, with a particular emphasis on financial abuse.

The group is also assessing the implications for its processes and procedures for agency arrangements in the context of the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act 2015, the Codes of Practice being developed by the National Disability Authority under the Act, and the Adult Safeguarding Bill, 2017, and will make recommendations for changes necessary in order for the Department to fully comply with that legislation.

In addition, my Department is supportive of the guiding principles of the Disability (Miscel- laneous Provisions) Bill 2016 which are intended to safeguard the autonomy and dignity of the person with impaired capacity.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRYY02200Carer’s Allowance Appeals

11/07/2017WRYY02300754. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of an appeal for carer’s allowance by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32623/17]

11/07/2017WRYY02400Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 6 June 2017. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought. When these papers have been received from the Department, the case in question will be referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral appeal hearing.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRYY02500Pension Provisions

11/07/2017WRYY02600755. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding work of her Department on the future provision of pensions; if she will engage with groups in the public service that are subject to early retirement rules but that remain subject to substantial pension contributions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32624/17]

11/07/2017WRYY02700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Social Welfare and Pen- sions Act 2011 provided that State pension age will be increased gradually to 68 years. This began in January 2014 with the abolition of the State pension (transition) available from 65 for those who satisfied the qualifying conditions, thereby standardising State pension age for all at 66 years, which is the current State pension age. This will increase to 67 in 2021 and to 68 in 2028. The changes introduced in 2011 were on foot of a Government commitment included in the National Recovery Plan published in 2010, and in the subsequent Memorandum of Under- standing with the EU/ECB/IMF

585 Questions - Written Answers Each year more people are living to pension age and living longer in retirement. As a result of this demographic change, the number of State pension recipients is increasing by approximately 17,000 annually. This has significant implications for the future costs of State pension provision which are currently increasing by close to €1 billion every 5 years. The purpose of changes to the State pension age is to make the pension system more sustainable in the context of increasing life expectancy.

The Deputy should note that there is no legally mandated retirement age in the State, and the age at which employees retire is a matter for the contract of employment between them and their employers.

I am informed by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform that the specific compulsory retirement age and minimum pension age provisions which affect individual public servants will reflect their particular employment sector and time of original recruitment. How- ever, I understand that such public servants will, generally, be paid a public service pension upon reaching their respective retirement age, whether or not they have reached the age which applies for the State pension. Any question regarding the retirement age of public servants, and their public service pension arrangements, including such arrangements for those who retire before reaching State pension age, are a matter for the Minister for Public Expenditure & Reform.

In a general context whether someone will qualify for a State pension at age 66, or for an alternative social protection payment aged 65, will depend on a number of factors, including their personal circumstances. In particular, it will depend upon whether their PRSI contributions were at the full rate - which provides for State pension coverage - or at a modified (reduced) rate which does not, and which would often be associated with public servants.

There are specific measures which apply to someone claiming jobseeker’s benefit from a date after their 65th birthday. Where qualified, these recipients may continue to be eligible for that payment until reaching pension age.

At present, entitlement to the State pension (contributory) is determined by means of a ‘yearly average’ calculation, where the total contributions paid or credited are divided by the number of years of the working life. The yearly average test has been in existence since 1961 when contributory pensions were first introduced. Payment rates are banded. For example, someone with a yearly average of 48 or more contributions will qualify for a full pension, whereas someone with a yearly average of 20-29 will qualify for a pension at the 85% rate.

The National Pensions Framework (2010) proposed that a “Total Contributions Approach” (TCA) should replace the yearly average approach, for new pensioners from 2020. The aim of this approach is to make the rate of contributory pension more closely match contributions made by a person. Officials of my Department are currently working on the detailed development of the TCA with a view to making proposals for consideration later in the year. This is a very significant reform with considerable legal, administrative, and technical elements in its implementation.

Following completion of the Actuarial Review of the Social Insurance Fund in the coming months, a refined proposal will be developed. My Department will conduct a period of consultation with relevant stakeholders including interest groups, representative bodies and the Oireachtas. Following the consultation period, I will submit a proposal to Government seeking approval of the new approach.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

586 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRYY02800Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRYY02900756. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Social Protection the level of expenditure by her Department or organisations under the aegis of her Department for each of the past five years 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. [32657/17]

11/07/2017WRYY03000Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The information sought by the Deputy is currently being collated and will be provided shortly.

11/07/2017WRYY03100Social Welfare Appeals

11/07/2017WRYY03200757. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will schedule an oral hearing for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32720/17]

11/07/2017WRYY03300Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who has decided to hold an oral hearing in this case on 18 July 2017. The person concerned has been notified of the arrangements for the hearing.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRYY03400Tax Code

11/07/2017WRYY03500758. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Social Protection the progress which has been made introducing a PRSI scheme for the self-employed and providing a supportive tax regime for entrepreneurs and the self-employed as is allowed for in the confidence and supply agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32725/17]

11/07/2017WRYY03600Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Programme for a Partner- ship Government commits to seeking “to introduce a PRSI scheme for the self-employed and provide a supportive tax regime for entrepreneurs and the self-employed”. Significant progress has been made in the last Budget on extending the level of cover available to self-employed PRSI contributors. Self-employed contributors now have access to treatment benefits since last March and will have access to invalidity pension next December. This is a real advance in the level of cover available to the self-employed.

It is planned to continue extending cover for other benefits to the self-employed on a phased basis in future Budgets. This year, my Department will examine the extension of social insurance to cover new risks and contingencies.

An Actuarial Review of Social Insurance Fund is currently underway. One of the issues being examined by the independent consultants undertaking the Review is the potential costs in future years of extending cover for a range of social insurance benefits to self-employed

587 Questions - Written Answers contributors including the projected PRSI contribution rates which would be required to extend such cover on a revenue neutral basis. It is planned to publish the completed review next Au- gust.

The outcome of the review, including the potential costs associated with further extensions of benefits to the self-employed, will feed into the examination being carried out by my Depart- ment.

Question No. 759 withdrawn.

11/07/2017WRYY03700Domiciliary Care Allowance Applications

11/07/2017WRYY03800760. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason for the delay of a decision being made on a domiciliary care allowance application by a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32773/17]

11/07/2017WRYY03900Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): The Department is currently experiencing delays in the processing of Domiciliary Care Allow- ance (DCA) claims. We are extremely sorry for any worry or concern this may cause to parents/ guardians of children with additional care needs. At present it is taking 20 weeks on average to finalise an application. Applications are processed in date of receipt order. There are a number of factors that have contributed to the extended time required to process claims;

Corrective actions are being taken, with additional deciding officers assigned to work on the scheme. Once these deciding officers become fully operational, the increase in claim processing capacity should allow for an improvement in processing times.

An application for DCA was received from this lady on the 8th of March 2017. The application will be considered by a Deciding Officer and the decision notified to her as soon as possible.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRYY04000Social Welfare Overpayments

11/07/2017WRYY04100761. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection if the arrangements in relation to collecting money in respect of alleged overpayments to a person (details supplied) will be re-examined in view of the fact that a freedom of information request is currently in 588 11 July 2017 the system from the person concerned and that the matter will be dealt with by the person as urgently as possible once this information has been made available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32838/17]

11/07/2017WRYY04200Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): In response to information received by my Department, an investigation of payments to the person concerned was undertaken by the Special Investigations Unit. The outcome of the investigation resulted in decisions being made under the Social Welfare Acts. My Department has written to the person concerned advising her of the outcome, her rights to seek an appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office and of the amount of overpayment assessed.

My understanding is that an appeal has not been made to date and that the Department has no record of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request from the individual concerned. The Deputy may wish to note that receipt of a request under the FOI Acts does not interfere in any way with the statutory processes underpinning the administration of the social welfare system.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRYY04300Fuel Allowance Payments

11/07/2017WRYY04400762. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection if her Department has considered allowing the fuel allowance to be paid on a lump sum basis as opposed to a weekly basis; the estimated full year administrative cost of enabling flexibility in relation to the way this allowance is paid; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32905/17]

11/07/2017WRYY04500Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The fuel allowance is paid over the winter season and in the 2016/17 season it was paid for 26 weeks at the rate of €22.50 per week amounting to €585 per annum. Expenditure for 2016/2017 is estimated at €229 million with approximately 376,000 households benefiting. It is a means tested payment to assist householders on long-term social welfare payments who are unable to provide for their own heating needs. Fuel allowance is not intended to meet those costs in full. Only one allowance is paid per household.

The lump sum approach to paying the fuel allowance has been raised in recent years by the voluntary sector in pre-Budget submissions. While there would be challenges for my Depart- ment in implementing a lump sum facility for fuel allowance customers wishing to avail of it, such a proposal would give fuel allowance customers the choice to receive the allowance in lump sums or continue to receive it weekly. It would enable customers who wish to avail of the lump sum payments to buy fuel in bulk, potentially securing special offers or discounts on the purchase of the particular fuel that meets their specific needs. I am currently examining options for its implementation.

The allowance is paid across a wide number of schemes and applications for the allowance are processed as part of the normal day to day work of staff administering these schemes. It is not possible at this stage to gauge the level of demand for this lump sum facility and in such circumstance to assess the administrative cost of implementation.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ00200Poverty Data

11/07/2017WRZZ00300763. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the estimated number 589 Questions - Written Answers of children in consistent poverty and experiencing deprivation; the way in which these figures compare to the European average; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32906/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ00400Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): In Ireland, consistent poverty at the household level is defined as having a household income below 60% of the median household income and experiencing basic deprivation (measured as lacking 2 or more of a list of 11 basic necessities).

The latest national data from the CSO Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) for 2015 shows that the number of children in consistent poverty in 2015 was 139,000, a decrease of 13,000 children on the 2014 figure. The number of children experiencing basic deprivation in 2015 was 380,000, a decrease of 52,000 children on the 2014 figure.

EUROSTAT does not produce a measure precisely equivalent to the Irish measures of consistent poverty or basic deprivation. However, based on published EUROSTAT data it is possible to produce a hybrid EU estimate of consistent poverty which is a measure of those children that are both at risk of poverty and “severely materially deprived”. The EUROSTAT 2015 data show that 3% (49,000) of children in Ireland experienced consistent poverty on this hybrid measure, compared to an EU28 average of 4%. Some 7.5% (112,000) of children in Ireland were severely materially deprived in 2015, as compared to an EU28 average rate of 8%.

The Government’s strategy for tackling poverty and social exclusion is set out in the updated National 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, including four specific high-level goals for children. The Department will review the Plan this year, as it reaches the end of its current term, with a view to developing an updated plan for future periods. This review will be undertaken in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

11/07/2017WRZZ00500Unemployment Data

11/07/2017WRZZ00600764. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons that are long term employed; the way in which this compares to the EU average; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32907/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ00700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Based on EUROSTAT Labour Force Survey data, the number of Irish long-term unemployed was 80,000 in Q4 2016, as compared with 9,278,000 in the EU overall. The situation in Ireland has improved substantially both in absolute terms and relative to the EU average in the last few years. The number of long-term unemployed here peaked at 204,000 in Q1 2012 at a time when the EU number was 10,778,000. The EU figure subsequently peaked at 12,768,000 in Q1 2014.

The rapid improvement in long-term unemployment reflects the impact of government policy, and the overall improvement in the labour market.

Government policy to reduce unemployment is twofold. First, through policies set out in the Action Plan for Jobs, to create an environment in which business can succeed and create jobs; and second, through Pathways to Work to ensure that as many as possible of these new jobs and other vacancies that arise in our economy are filled by people taken from the Live Register.

The Pathways to Work 2016-2020 strategy continues to prioritise actions for the long-term unemployed. This includes the payment-by-results services of JobPath to engage more systematically with the long-term unemployed; providing targeted wage subsidies under JobsPlus; 590 11 July 2017 and through reserved places for long-term unemployed jobseekers on employment and training programmes.

I am confident these measures, and continuing economic recovery, will support further reductions in long-term unemployment and add to the substantial improvements that have already been seen over the last few years.

11/07/2017WRZZ00800Unemployment Data

11/07/2017WRZZ00900765. Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection the rate of long-term youth unemployment here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32908/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ01000Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Government policy to reduce unemployment is twofold. First, through policies set out in the Action Plan for Jobs, to create an environment in which business can succeed and create jobs; and second, through Pathways to Work to ensure that as many of these new jobs and other vacancies that arise in our economy are filled by people taken from the Live Register, including young people.

To date, these policies have been effective in reducing youth unemployment and long-term youth unemployment in particular. The number of young Irish people who are unemployed for over a year has fallen from a peak of 35,600 in Q4 2011 to 9,300 in Q1 2017. The overall youth unemployment rate has fallen from a peak of 31% in 2012 to 11.9% in June 2017; the rate of long-term unemployment for young people has fallen from a peak of almost 16% to 5%. Overall youth unemployment has fallen from well above the EU average in 2012 to well below the EU figure now.

Looking forward, in the context of Pathways to Work 2016-2020, the government has adopted several high-level targets relevant to the question raised:

- Reducing the unemployment rate to between 5% and 6% by 2020

- Bringing youth unemployment to 12% or less by 2020 in the context of an overall unemployment rate of 6% or less;

- Decreasing long-term unemployment to 2.5%.

Targets were not set for intermediate years. However, it seems clear based on the most recent developments in the labour market that these targets are now likely to be achieved or indeed improved on.

The Pathways to Work 2016-2020 strategy continues to prioritise support for the long- term unemployed and young unemployed. This includes the roll-out of the payment-by-results services of JobPath to engage more systematically with the long-term unemployed, including long-term unemployed youth; providing targeted wage subsidies under JobsPlus; and through reserved places for long-term unemployed jobseekers on employment and training programmes.

Pathways to Work 2016-2020 additionally commits to: increasing the share of workplace- based interventions for youth unemployed; ensuring that monthly engagement, at a minimum, is consistently applied and maintained; restructuring the First Steps programme; and implementing the Defence Forces Skills for Life programme.

I am confident these measures, and continuing economic recovery, will support further reductions in youth unemployment, both long- and short-term, and add to the substantial improvements that have already been seen over the last few years. 591 Questions - Written Answers Questions Nos. 766 and 767 answered with Question No. 749.

Question No. 768 answered with Question No. 723.

11/07/2017WRZZ01400Gender Recognition

11/07/2017WRZZ01500769. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will re-examine the provisions for those aged under 18 years of age and those aged under 16 years of age in view of the publication of the first annual report on the Gender Recognition Act 2015. [32917/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ01600770. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Social Protection if there are areas of the legislation she is of the view needs to be reformed, such as recognition of non-binary and intersex persons in view of the fact that the Gender Recognition Act 2015 has been in force nearly two years. [32918/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ01700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): I propose to take Questions Nos. 769 and 770 together.

Section 7 of the Gender Recognition Act 2015 provides for a review of the Act to commence within 2 years of enactment of the legislation.

Officials in my Department are currently making preparations for the review which is due to commence in September. The terms of reference and the composition of the review group have yet to be finalised. However, I would like to assure you that issues relating to gender recognition for children younger than 16 years of age; arrangements for 16 and 17 year olds; and the position of non-binary and intersex persons will be considered in detail in the course of the review.

The findings and conclusions of the review must be presented to the Oireachtas by Septem- ber 2018.

11/07/2017WRZZ01900Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRZZ02000771. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection if the planned dissolution and replacement of the citizen’s information services falls under the first part of the board’s prescribed function, as prescribed in section 7 of the Comhairle Act 2000 (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32938/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ02100Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): As the Deputy is aware, the Citizens Information Board (CIB) has statutory responsibility for Citizens Information Ser- vices (CIS) and Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS). The functions of the Board are set out in Section 7 of the Comhairle Act, 2000, as amended.

Under the legislation, the Board can directly provide, or support the provision of, independent information, advice (including money advice and budgeting) and advocacy services so as to ensure that individuals have access to accurate, comprehensive and clear information relating to social services and are referred to the relevant services.

Currently, the Board provides financial support for the delivery of these services to a network of ninety three individual local companies. The Board’s decision to change the number of local service delivery partner companies to sixteen regional companies, eight CIS and eight

592 11 July 2017 MABS, is an operational decision of the Board relating to how it shall discharge the statutory functions conferred on it.

The changes will bring CIS and MABS organisations more into line with modern public service governance guidelines and requirements where significant State funding is involved. The reduced company structure will better assist CIB in the fulfilment of its statutory obligations, its compliance with the Code of Practice for Governance of State Bodies, and implementation of recommendations of the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

I am satisfied that existing legislation, together with compliance requirements of the Code of Practice for Governance of State Bodies, underpin the Board’s decision to re-organise the governance arrangements of its service delivery partner companies in the manner set out.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ02200Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRZZ02300772. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection if she has satisfied herself that giving full control to the statutory citizen’s information board to appoint all persons nominated to serve on the eight proposed regional boards (details supplied) will maintain the necessary independence of CIS as civic institutions between the citizen and the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32939/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ02400Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The process for selecting board membership of the new sixteen regional boards has not yet been defined by the Citizens Infor- mation Board (CIB). Some discussions have taken place on this topic at the regional consultations, held by CIB in May 2017. Further consultations are planned over the summer months on a number of themes, one of which includes recruitment to the sixteen regional company boards and the Local Advisory Committees.

CIB in determining the recruitment process and the selection criteria to be used will have regard to best practice in the area of board appointments. It is the intention of CIB, in line with best practise, to publicly advertise the regional board positions. Expressions of interest will also be sought by the Board from existing Citizens Information Services (CIS) and Money Ad- vice and Budgeting Services (MABS) company board members.

The independence of individual CIS or MABS companies is in no way undermined, or compromised, by the requirement to have appropriate and robust governance arrangements in place, which are compatible with the statutory and financial oversight needs of CIB as funder.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ02500Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRZZ02600773. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection the person that made decisions on the daily operations of the citizens information board and that provided supervision, support and oversight to the executive there in the 18-month interregnum period between board meetings from February 2015 to July 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32940/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ02700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): On 3 March 2015, eight vacancies, including that of Chairperson, arose on the Citizens Information Board due to the expira- 593 Questions - Written Answers tion of existing terms of appointment. In the absence of a quorum, Board meetings scheduled for 25th March 2015 and 20 May 2015 did not take place. The Board held meetings in June, October and December 2015, and in February, July and October 2016.

Section 13 (1) of the Comhairle Act 2000 provides that there shall be a chief executive officer of the Board and section 13 (2) provides that the chief executive officer shall carry on and manage, and control generally, the administration and business of the Board and perform such other functions ( if any) as may be determined by the Board.

As part of their role the Chief Executive Officer provides ongoing oversight of the daily operations of the executive, making decisions and providing support as required, including during the period specified by the Deputy, from February 2015 to July 2016.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ02800Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRZZ02900774. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection the details of the minutes taken by the citizens information board in November 2014 regarding the decision to dis- solve and replace CIS’s and MABS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32941/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ03000Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): As the Deputy is aware, the Citizens Information Board (CIB) has statutory responsibility for the Citizens Information Ser- vice (CIS) and Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).

A Feasibility Study, commissioned by CIB and carried out the Pathfinder, was presented to the Board of CIB in September 2014. Following the Board meeting, a copy of the report was issued to all boards and managers of CIS and MABS services. Feedback was sought from delivery services and channelled through National Association for Citizens Information Services (NACIS), the representative body for Citizens Information Services, National Execu- tive Committee (NEC) and National Management Forum (NMF), the representative bodies for staff working in MABS and for MABS companies respectively. Thirty- two responses were received. On 14 October 2014, the Board of CIB heard submissions on restructuring from NACIS, NEC and NMF representing the boards and staff of CIS and MABS services. The Board discussed the study, the actions now required to advance the study’s recommendations and asked that the Executive report back to the Board at its November meeting with proposed next steps.

At the meeting on the 14 November, it was agreed that the Board will lead the change and that the Board’s decision that change was necessary will be recorded. CIB discussed its next steps and proposed that a Design Group be set up to inform CIB’s consideration of an appropriate organisational model.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ03100Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRZZ03200775. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection the consideration that was given to the issue involved in dissolving and replacing the CIS and MABS by the citizens information board in the period from the November 2014 board meeting to the meeting in Oc- tober 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32942/17]

594 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRZZ03300Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The Citizens Information Board (CIB) is the statutory body responsible for providing information, advice (including money and budgeting advice service) and advocacy services on a wide range of public and social services. CIB delivers on this remit through a network of delivery partners, which includes 51 local Mon- ey Advice and Budgeting Services (MABS) and 42 local Citizens Information Services (CIS).

Extensive analysis and consideration of options for restructuring of governance arrangements has taken place over the past number of years, including extensive consultations with stakeholders. A Feasibility Study was commissioned by CIB and carried out by Pathfinder. Pathfinder approached the study with detailed consultations with all stakeholders including local services, representative bodies, local boards, staff, and in the case of CIS’s volunteers.

The Report was presented to the Board of CIB in September 2014. Following the Board meeting, a copy of the report was issued to all boards and managers of CIS and MABS services. Feedback was sought from delivery services countrywide and channelled through National Association for Citizens Information Services (NACIS), the representative body for Citizens Information Services, National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Management Forum (NMF), the representative bodies for staff working in MABS and for MABS companies respectively. Thirty- two responses were received. On 14 October 2014, the Board of CIB heard submissions on restructuring from NACIS, NEC and NMF representing the boards and staff of CIS and MABS services.

On 19 November 2014, the Board of CIB’s Register of Decisions recorded the following entry ‘decision that change is needed in the structure of delivery partner companies was confirmed”. The Board also agreed that a Design Group be tasked with presenting options on new organisational models for its consideration.

The work of the Design Group took place in 2015 and recommended restructuring on a regional model basis. On the 5 October 2016, the Board of CIB again heard submissions from NACIS, NEC and NMF in relation to restructuring proposals. On 12 October 2016, having reviewed the output of the Design Group and submissions by the representative bodies, the Board decided to proceed with restructuring on a regional model basis. This decision is recorded in the Register of Board decisions.

The Board established a Restructuring Sub Committee to progress this work and report back to the Board of CIB in January 2017. On 15th February 2017, following detailed discussion on the Report of the Restructuring Sub-Committee, the Board of CIB decided to adopt the Report and proceed with its implementation. The new governance model referred to in the Report comprises of eight regions, with eight CIS companies and eight MABS companies. Acceptance of the restructuring group’s recommendation and CIB’s decision to move forward with this model was entered in the Register of CIB Board decisions.

The decision to change the governance arrangements of CIS and MABS companies has been taken by the statutory Board of CIB after a lengthy period of consultation and detailed consideration of the options and views put forward at all stages. I am confident that the membership of the Board of CIB, which comprises of experienced and competent individuals, representative of a broad spectrum of interests and which includes representatives of the Citizens Information Service and Money Advice and Budgeting Service, has made this important decision in the best interests of the citizens of Ireland, whom the Board serves.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ03400Citizen Information Services 595 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRZZ03500776. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of times the citizens information board met between November 2014 and October 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32943/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ03600Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The legislative provisions governing membership of the Citizens Information Board (CIB) are contained in the Comhairle Act 2000, the Citizens Information Act 2007 and the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2011. The legislation provides that the Board of CIB shall consist of 15 members appointed by the Minister, one of whom shall be designated by the Minister as chairperson and that the quorum for a meeting of the Board shall be 8, or such lesser number (being not less than 5) as the Board may from time to time determine.

There were ten meetings of the Board of CIB during the period November 2014 to October 2016 on the following dates; 19 November 2014, 11 December 2014, 18 February 2015, 22 June 2015, 21 October 2015, 9 December 2015, 17 February 2016, 27 July 2016, 5 October 2016 and 12 October 2016.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRZZ03700Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRZZ03800777. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of the 42 citizens information service boards (details supplied) which have adopted resolutions supporting the strategy of their dissolution and replacement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32944/17]

11/07/2017WRZZ03900Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The information requested by the Deputy is not available.

The management boards of each Citizens Information Service are separate independent legal entities. The Citizens Information Board does not routinely receive copies of local service delivery partner company board meeting agendas or minutes.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRAAA00200Citizen Information Services

11/07/2017WRAAA00300778. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on whether the citizens information board is disregarding the view of Dáil Éireann (details supplied); her further views on whether the board has her support and the support of her department’s management advisory committee regarding the structuring of citizens information services and MABS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32945/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA00400Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): As the Deputy is aware, the Citizens Information Board (CIB) has statutory responsibility for Citizens Information Services (CIS) and Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) services countrywide. In November 2014, the Board of the Citizens Information Board decided to restructure the local CIS and MABS networks. In October 2016, the Board decided that the new structure should be regionally based. In February 2017, the Board adopted a recommendation that the current structure of ninety three individual local companies would be changed to a sixteen regional company model, comprising eight CIS and eight MABS companies. As a statutory body, the Board has the sole right to make decisions on its day to day operations as it sees fit. It would not be lawful 596 11 July 2017 or appropriate for me, as Minister, to seek to intervene in such a decision taken by the Board.

On foot of a recent procurement exercise, CIB is expected to shortly appoint an independent external provider to undertake a full Cost Benefit Analysis on the new regional model.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRAAA00500Community Employment Schemes Operation

11/07/2017WRAAA00600779. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social Protection the details of the new amended rules in respect of community employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32955/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA00700Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Following the publication of my Department’s Report - An Analysis of the Community Employment Programme – earlier in the year, the Government approved a number of changes to the terms and conditions around participation on Community Employment (CE). The main purpose of these changes is to broaden the availability of CE to a greater number of people on the live register and to standardise other conditions around the length of time a person can participate on the programme.

Following consultation workshops with stakeholders in every county in the country, I approved the implementation of these changes with effect from Monday 3rd July 2017.

The changes will see the general qualifying age for CE, for those on the live register, reduced from 25 to 21 years. It will now be easier for previous participants, who have exhausted their CE entitlement, to requalify as participation prior to the year 2007 will be disregarded. While participants between 21 and 55 years are entitled to one year on the programme, this can be extended by up to 2 more years if they are engaged in a recognised training or education award that is helping them progress towards employment. All CE participants age 55 and over can now avail of 3 consecutive years on a CE scheme. There will be an overall lifetime limit of 6 years from 2007 (or 7 years if on a disability payment).

In the coming months, we will be progressing the roll-out of the ‘two strand approach’ in

597 Questions - Written Answers terms of how places on CE schemes are categorised – activation and social inclusion. In addition, a review of the rules governing the participation of older people is being undertaken which will be finalised in the early autumn.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRAAA00800Community Employment Schemes Eligibility

11/07/2017WRAAA00900780. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to continue the scheme launched in 2015 which gave persons of 62 years of age and over the opportunity to continue on the community employment scheme until they reach the retirement and pension age of 66; her plans to continue the scheme; her further plans to consider lowering the threshold to 58 years of age; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32956/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA01000Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): As the Deputy is aware, Com- munity Employment (CE) is a labour market activation programme which helps long-term unemployed people and other disadvantaged groups to re-enter the active workforce by breaking their experience of unemployment through a return to work routine. It is designed to be a temporary fixed-term activation intervention. The programme assists participants to enhance and develop their skills, competencies and confidence to enable them to compete for jobs in the open market.

The pilot initiative announced in December 2015 is still in operation. This initiative enables those aged 62 or over to extend their participation beyond the standard maximum participation limits, providing the eligibility conditions are met. Participants are allowed to participate on a continuous basis up to the State Pension age, subject to satisfactory performance on the scheme and to annual approval by the Department. The places allocated for these participants within each individual CE scheme are limited to 7% of each scheme’s overall budgeted places. This pilot scheme is currently available nationwide.

Following the publication earlier this year of my Department’s Report - An Analysis of the Community Employment Programme - the Government approved a number of changes to the terms and conditions of participation on CE. At the time of publication, it was also signalled that a review of the rules governing the participation of older people on schemes would take place and I expect this review to be completed in the autumn. The future of the over 62s pilot will be considered in that context.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRAAA01100Community Employment Schemes Supervisors

11/07/2017WRAAA01200781. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the provision of pensions for persons that are employed as supervisors on community employment schemes for an extended number of years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33048/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA01300Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Community Employment (CE) participants and supervisors are not employed by my Department – rather they are employees of private companies in the community and voluntary sector. Given that situation, the State is not responsible for funding pension arrangements for such employees even where the companies in question are reliant on State funding. It is open to individuals to make provision for a pension

598 11 July 2017 by way of PRSA which all employers are obliged to facilitate.

Nevertheless, it should be noted that the issue of CE supervisors’ pension provision is currently being examined by a Community Sector High Level Forum under the auspices and chair- manship of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. My Department is represented on this group, as are IMPACT, SIPTU, the Department of Housing, Planning, Community & Local Government and Pobal. The Forum last met on 7 April, 2017 and I understand that their work is on-going.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRAAA01400Social Welfare Payments Waiting Times

11/07/2017WRAAA01500782. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the average waiting times from the point of application to a decision being made in respect of each social protection payment. [33062/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA01600Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The information requested by the Deputy is detailed in the following tabular statement.

Social Welfare claims by average waiting times 31 May 2017

Scheme Average Waiting time - (weeks) Jobseeker’s Benefit 1 Jobseeker’s Allowance 2 One-Parent Family Payment 5 State Pension Contributory 5 Widow’s, Widower’s or Surviving Civil 1 Partner’s Contributory Pension State Pension Non-Contributory 12 Household Benefits 2 Free Travel 2 Domiciliary Care Allowance 18 Supplementary Welfare Allowance 1 Child Benefit (Domestic & FRA) 3 Child Benefit (EU Regulation) 29 Treatment Benefit 6 Maternity Benefit 6* Paternity Benefit 6* Family Income Supplement (New) 3 Carer’s Allowance 13 Carer’s Benefit 7 Disability Allowance 12 Invalidity Pension 7 Illness Benefit 1 Occupational Injury Benefit 1 *As At End April 2017

599 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRAAA01700Social Welfare Appeals Waiting Times

11/07/2017WRAAA01800783. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social Protection the average waiting time for a decision to be made by the social protection appeals office in respect of each social protection payment. [33063/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA01900Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): The average appeal processing times to date in 2017 for all scheme types where the appeal was decided by an appeals officer, broken down by oral hearing and summary decision, are set out in the following table.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Appeal processing times by Scheme 01 January 2017- 30 June 2017 - Average processing times Average processing times (weeks) - Summary Deci- (weeks) - Oral Hearings sions Blind Person’s Pension 16.0 24.4 Carers Allowance 20.6 23.0 Carers Benefit 15.5 21.5 Child Benefit 21.1 26.6 Disability Allowance 16.9 21.9 Illness Benefit 28.2 31.0 Partial Capacity Benefit 38.8 33.1 Domiciliary Care Allowance 24.1 30.7 Deserted Wifes Benefit - 13.7 Farm Assist 22.6 24.2 Bereavement Grant 15.1 - Death Benefit (Pension) 102.1 - Family Income Supplement 17.7 30.4 Invalidity Pension 16.4 20.9 Liable Relatives 18.9 24.1 Maternity Benefit 18.9 20.0 One Parent Family Payment 23.6 32.4 State Pension (Contributory) 25.7 37.7

600 11 July 2017 - Average processing times Average processing times (weeks) - Summary Deci- (weeks) - Oral Hearings sions State Pension (Non-Contrib- 21.6 35.3 utory) State Pension (Transition) - 81.4 Occupational Injury Benefit 14.3 28.4 Disablement Pension 19.7 31.9 Incapacity Supplement 54.2 41.5 Guardian’s Payment (Con) 25.0 22.4 Guardian’s Payment (Non- 12.9 28.9 Con) Jobseeker’s Allowance 16.6 24.3 (Means) Jobseeker’s Allowance 15.9 24.5 BTW Family Dividend 18.0 41.1 Jobseeker’s Transitional 19.3 29.4 Recoverable Benefits & As- 30.3 - sistance Jobseeker’s Benefit 15.8 18.1 Carer’s Support Grant * 17.9 23.7 Treatment Benefit 14.0 - Insurability of Employment 37.8 93.1 Supplementary Welfare Al- 16.5 24.3 lowance Survivor’s Pension (Con) 21.8 33.1 Survivor’s Pension (Non- 24.2 21.9 con) Widowed Parent Grant 14.1 - All Appeals 18.5 25.0

* Previously called Respite Care Grant

11/07/2017WRAAA02000Maternity Benefit Applications

11/07/2017WRAAA02100784. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection the current processing time for maternity benefit applications; the efforts being made to address the delays in processing applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33089/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA02200Minister for Social Protection (Deputy Regina Doherty): Maternity benefit is a payment for employed and self-employed pregnant women who satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions on their own insurance record. The benefit is payable for 26 weeks at a rate of €235 per week with possible increases for adult and child dependents.

An online claim facility provides customers with a convenient and effective method of submitting a maternity benefit claim and will facilitate the speedy determination of entitlement.

Processing of maternity benefit claims is up to date and there are no claims awaiting payment where the mother has commenced her maternity leave. Claims are processed in leave 601 Questions - Written Answers commencement date order and claims with a commencement in mid-July are currently being processed.

11/07/2017WRAAA02300Illness Benefit Applications Data

11/07/2017WRAAA02400785. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications in respect of illness benefit that have been submitted; the number of those which have been granted; the number which have been refused in the past 12 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33090/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA02500Minister of State at the Department of Social Protection (Deputy Finian McGrath): The following is the information requested in respect of the period from 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017.

Claims received Claims awarded Claims disallowed 209,562 156,799 45,025 Illness Benefit is payable to customers who are medically certified as unfit for work due to illness and who satisfy certain PRSI contribution conditions. To qualify for payment of Illness Benefit a person must satisfy the followingtwo main conditions:

- Have at least 104 weeks of PRSI contributions paid since they first started work

and either

- 39 weeks of PRSI contributions paid or credited in the relevant tax year, of which 13 must be paid contributions.

For claims made in 2017 the relevant tax year is 2015. Customers are given every opportunity to supply additional information to the Department should they not meet those conditions.

Customers are also advised that if they are unable to meet their needs or the needs of their household, they may be entitled to supplementary welfare allowance and should contact my Department’s community welfare services at their local Intreo centre.

11/07/2017WRAAA02600Housing Assistance Payments Expenditure

11/07/2017WRAAA02700786. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the estimated cost of increasing HAP by 20% in counties Dublin and Cork. [32333/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA02800787. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the estimated cost of creating new HAP thresholds at sub county levels for all local electoral areas that are designated as rent pressure zones and allowing a 10% increase in thresholds in these new areas. [32334/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA02900Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 786 and 787 together.

The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is a flexible and immediate housing support that is now available to all eligible households throughout the State. The increased 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 602 11 July 2017 find suitable accommodation and willing landlords. On average in 2017, 333 additional tenancies are being supported by HAP each week, with just over 24,000 households currently having their housing needs met under the scheme, and some 18,000 separate landlords and agents currently in receipt of monthly HAP payments.

Each local authority has statutory discretion to agree to a HAP payment up to 20% above the prescribed maximum rent limit in circumstances where it is necessary, because of local rental market conditions, to secure appropriate accommodation for a household that requires it. It is a matter for the local authority to determine if the application of the flexibility is warranted on a case by case basis. Additional discretion of up to 50% above rent limits is available to assist in housing homeless households in the Dublin Region. The additional discretion available to homeless households recognises the difficulty this cohort of households face in sourcing and securing properties in a highly competitive rental market.

At the end of Q1 2017, 14.4% of the total number of households across the country being supported by HAP were benefiting from the additional flexibility that was provided to local authorities to exceed the maximum rent limits. When homeless households in the Dublin area are excluded from this, 9.6% of all households being supported were benefiting from the additional flexibility. In those cases, the average rate of discretionary payment being used was 14.3% above rent limits provided. The following table shows the percentage of households in each of 4 Dublin local authorities (excluding homeless households) and the two Cork local authorities areas being supported by HAP which were benefiting from the additional flexibility, and the average percentage rate of discretion in excess of the maximum rent limits utilised by the six local authorities for those households.

Local Authority Percentage of HAP House- Average Rate of Discretion holds Benefiting From being provided (% increase Discretion beyond Rent limits) Cork City Council 28.5% 12.7% Cork County Council 6.6% 15.4% Dublin City Council* 1.2% 14.6% Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown 54.5% 18.6% County Council* Fingal County Council* 6.8% 10.5% South Dublin County Coun- 0.5% 15.0% cil* *Excluding use of specific discretion for Homeless households

The local authority must make a decision on what level of support to provide based on the tenant’s current position and the needs of a household, as well as the market rents in that local area. I am currently satisfied that the maximum rent limits, together with the additional flexibility available to local authorities, are sufficient to meet the demand of the rental market in these areas and, accordingly, the question of increasing the HAP limits does not arise.

The Government has provided €152.7 million to fund the cost of HAP in 2017, and I am satisfied that there are sufficient resources in place to meet this demand. 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.

On 15 June 2017, my Department announced the launch of a public consultation on the review of the Rent Predictability Measure and the system of Rent Pressure Zones introduced 603 Questions - Written Answers last December. The consultation has allowed members of the public and interested parties to provide their opinions and suggestions on the functioning of the measure. The submissions received from the consultation process, which concluded on 30 June 2017, will feed into the review of the measure. At this stage, the measure has been in place for 6 months and data from the Residential Tenancies Board’s Rent Index Report for Quarter 1 2017 is also available. Us- ing this latest data, it will be possible to ascertain the effectiveness of the Rent Predictability Measure and whether any changes need to be made.

I am satisfied that the HAP scheme is generally working well but I will keep its operation under on-going review, including considering the impact of the Rent Predictability Measure on Social Housing Supports, including HAP, as part of the current review.

11/07/2017WRAAA03100Local Authority Staff Remuneration

11/07/2017WRAAA03200788. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the estimated full year cost of positions (details supplied) by pay, employer’s PRSI and allowances, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32622/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA03300Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department gathers quarterly data on staff numbers in local authorities. The data gathered does not provide details in respect of employer’s PRSI or allowances and, accordingly, the information requested is not available in my Department.

A summary of the salary scales of the relevant grades is outlined in the following table.

Grades Salary Scale Senior Executive Building Surveyor €63,276 – €76,342 (LSI2)* Executive Building Surveyor €47,732 – €65,675 (LSI2) Assistant Building Surveyor €37,331 – €58,672 (LSI2) Senior Executive Engineer €63,276 – €76,342 (LSI2) Executive Engineer €47,732 – €65,675 (LSI2) Assistant Engineer €37,331 – €58,672 (LSI2) *LSI = Long Service Increment

Housing for People with Disabilities Provision

11/07/2017WRAAA03350789. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if he will consider designating a specific number of new social housing builds specifically as fully wheelchair accessible; if a cost benefit analysis has been carried out against adapting existing stock; if so, the outcome of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32062/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA03375802. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the actions that have been implemented to date as a result of the framework laid out in the national housing strategy for persons with a disability (details supplied); the length of time this strategy will be extended to; the persons or organisations that make up the implementation monitoring group; and the number of times this group has met since it was established. [32359/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA03387809. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- 604 11 July 2017 cal Government the access guidelines for persons with disabilities in place for local authorities in relation to the provision of part 5 or part 8 local authority houses. [32370/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA03393Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 789, 802 and 803 together.

The National Housing Strategy for people with a Disability (NHSPWD) 2011-2016 and associated National Implementation Framework were jointly published by my Department and the Department of Health. They set out the Government’s broad framework for the delivery of housing for people with disabilities and were developed as part of a coherent framework in conjunction with the Government’s mental health policy and congregated settings report. Building on the Programme for a Partnership Government commitment to meet the housing needs of people with disabilities, the NHSPWD has been extended to 2020 to continue to deliver on its aims.

Implementation of identified actions in the NHSPWD is being driven primarily by the Hous- ing Agency by means of a dedicated sub-group comprising representatives from my Department, the Health Service Executive (HSE), Department of Health, local authorities, the Irish Council for Social Housing and various disability representative organisations. The Housing subgroup, established in 2012, is progressing a range of priority actions and will continue to progress this work under the extended timeframe. An Implementation Monitoring Group (IMG) was established in 2012 to monitor and report on progress, and has met on ten occasions since then with a further meeting scheduled for October. Three progress reports on implementation covering the period September 2012 to December 2016, have been published by the IMG to date. These comprehensive reports are available on my Department’s website at the following link:

http://www.housing.gov.ie/housing/policy/people-disability/housing-people-disability.

The IMG is chaired by a senior official of my Department and comprises representatives from relevant Government Departments and agencies and disability organisations: details of current IMG members are set out in Appendix 1 of the Third Progress Report available at the above link.

One of the key measures achieved in 2016 under the NHSPWD was the establishment of Housing and Disability Steering Groups (HDSGs) in all housing authorities, to achieve a coordinated and integrated approach to meeting the housing needs of people with a disability at local level. These are chaired by Directors of Housing in each authority and include HSE and disability representative organisations. Each HDSG has prepared a local Strategic Plan for its own City/County area, to develop specific local strategies to meet identified and emerging need over the next five years. These Plans, along with the annual Summary of Social Housing As- sessments, will allow local authorities to plan more strategically for the housing needs of people with a disability and will support the delivery of accommodation using all appropriate housing supply mechanisms. This is a more targeted and responsive way to meet actual need identified rather than, for example, designating a specific number of new social housing builds that are fully wheelchair accessible.

My Department provides funding under three separate schemes for necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works to the houses of people with disabilities and older people in order to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs, and to facilitate the continued occupancy of their own home for as long as possible. There is a strong social benefit accruing from this funding in terms of supporting older people, and people with a disability, to continue to live independently in their own homes and, in some cases, to avoid an outcome where people may otherwise require social housing. In 2016, funding totalled €56.25m and 8,010 households benefitted from the grants. In 2017, €59.8m is available under this scheme and the target is to 605 Questions - Written Answers reach 10,000 homes.

In addition to funding for adaptation works to existing dwellings, my Department’s Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) funds up to 100% of project costs advanced by local authorities to Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) to provide accommodation for people with specific categories of need, including people with disabilities. A provision of €66 million is available for the scheme this year.

All new buildings, including social housing units, must comply with the legally enforceable minimum performance standards set out in the Building Regulations 1997 - 2017. In this regard, the Building Regulations (Part M Amendment) Regulations 2010,and the accompanying Technical Guidance Document M – Access and Use(2010), which came into effect on 1 January 2012, set out the minimum statutory requirements applicable to new buildings, and to existing buildings where new works, a material alteration or a material change of use is proposed.

Part M of the Building Regulations aims to foster an inclusive approach to the design and construction of the built environment. While the Part M requirements may be regarded as a statutory minimum level of provision, the accompanying technical guidance encourages building owners and designers to have regard to the design philosophy of universal design and to consider making additional provisions where practicable and appropriate. The concept of Uni- versal Design centres on achieving a built environment that may be accessed, understood and used to the greatest extent possible by all people, regardless of their age, size or disability.

11/07/2017WRAAA03400Marine Resources

11/07/2017WRAAA03500790. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if he will expedite an environmental impact study in Bantry Bay before permitting the mechanical extraction of kelp from Bantry Bay, County Cork, in view of the impact such an extraction will have on the marine environment, the seal population and both the fishing and tourism industries. [32077/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA03600Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The application in question was circulated, in line with usual practice, to various bodies for their views and input. Submissions were received from the National Parks and Wild- life Service and the Underwater Archaeology Unit of the then Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaelteacht, the Marine Survey Office, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board, the Central Fisheries Board and the Marine Institute.

The Marine Licence Vetting Committee considered all material pertaining to the application and concluded that subject to compliance with specific conditions the proposed harvesting was not likely to have a significant negative impact on the marine environment.

The rotational harvesting plan, ensures that only a portion of the bay is harvested each year. To strengthen the sustainability of the harvesting plan for the licenced area within the bay, the harvesting is also subject to a strict monitoring programme that will provide valuable scientific data, and requires approval of a baseline study prior to commencement of operations. There are no plans at present to require further studies to be carried out.

All details of the application and determination are available on my Department’s website at the following link: http://www.housing.gov.ie/planning/foreshore/applications/bioatlantis-ltd.

11/07/2017WRAAA03700Tribunals of Inquiry Data 606 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRAAA03800791. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the policy in relation to third party submissions to the Mahon tribunal; if there is a list of all the submissions that have been kept or archived by the tribunal; and the location in which these submissions are stored. [32113/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA03900Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The procedure for third party submissions and other documentary materials that are required to be archived by the Tribunal of Inquiry into Certain Planning Matters and Payments (also known as the Mahon Tribunal) is provided for in sections 46 and 47 of the Civil Law (Mis- cellaneous Provisions) Act 2011 and the National Archives Act 1986. The relevant documents are in the process of being placed in storage with the storage company procured and contracted by OPW for Government archiving services. All documents not in archive are presently under the control of the Tribunal at its offices in Dublin Castle.

Documents provided to the Tribunal which are not required to be stored under the above legislation are being returned by the Tribunal to the parties who provided same; or if not required to be returned, are being destroyed with the consent of said party. This process is ongoing as there is a significant number of parties and documents involved.

The Tribunal compiled in excess of 600,000 records, generating 1.6 million pages of materials during the course of its work, and it is not practical to provide a specific list without further elaboration.

11/07/2017WRAAA04000Repair and Leasing Scheme

11/07/2017WRAAA04100792. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the number of properties that have become available under the repair and leasing scheme for each local authority, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32160/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA04200808. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the progress to date of the repair and lease scheme; the number of properties currently involved in the scheme; and the average amount required up front by the property owner to bring the unit back into stock. [32369/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA04300Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 792 and 808 together.

The Repair and Leasing Scheme (RLS) is targeted at owners of vacant properties who cannot afford or access the funding needed to bring their properties up to the required standard for rental property. Subject to the suitability of the property for social housing, and the agreement of the property owner, the cost of the necessary repairs up to a maximum of €40,000 will be met upfront by the local authority or an approved housing body (AHB).

In recognition of both the critical demand for units and the potential the RLS has to offer, an additional €26m was assigned to fund the scheme in 2017, which brings the total amount available this year to €32m. This additional investment in 2017 means that delivery under the scheme can be accelerated and up to 800 vacant properties can be brought back into use as new homes for families on local authority waiting lists this year.

Individual targets have been communicated to each local authority to ensure that the objective of 800 units for 2017 is achieved, and local authorities have been provided with delegated authority to enter into contractual arrangements in respect of that number of units. If a local 607 Questions - Written Answers authority is in a position to secure more units through the scheme than their target, this is welcomed and funding will be provided accordingly. The RLS targets for each local authority are set out in tabular form.

This activity will be closely monitored to ensure that the scheme works well; that the funding available is utilised effectively; and ultimately, that new social houses are delivered using the scheme in 2017. My Department is currently gathering data from local authorities in order to report progress in what was the first full quarter of operation of the national scheme and this will be published on my Department’s website in due course.

2017 RLS Targets per Local Authority

Local Authority RLS Target 2017 Carlow County Council 14 Cavan County Council 9 Clare County Council 18 Cork City Council 26 Cork County Council 50 Donegal County Council 22 Dublin City Council 150 Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council 25 Fingal County Council 41 Galway City Council 24 Galway County Council 20 Kerry County Council 27 Kildare County Council 31 Kilkenny County Council 13 Laois County Council 13 Leitrim County Council 6 Limerick City and County Council 30 Longford County Council 10 Louth County Council 22 Mayo County Council 20 Meath County Council 18 Monaghan County Council 5 Offaly County Council 13 Roscommon County Council 8 Sligo County Council 10 South Dublin County Council 47 Tipperary County Council 23 Waterford City and County Council 53 Westmeath County Council 20 Wexford County Council 19 Wicklow County Council 13 800

11/07/2017WRAAA04400Local Authority Staff

608 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRAAA04500793. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the steps he is taking to ensure that all local authority chambers have a clear policy on councillors that choose to breastfeed during live council sessions; and the steps he is taking to ensure that the practice is facilitated in each council. [32170/17]

11/07/2017WRAAA04600Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Local authorities are independent statutory bodies. Within the local government system decisions of policy rest with the elected council. Through their reserved functions elected members play a significant role in overseeing and directing the affairs of local authorities. Part 6 and Schedule 10 of the Local Government Act 2001, as amended, allow elected members by resolution to agree their own standing orders for the regulation of council meetings and proceedings.

The Government recognises that breastfeeding is important for the health of both mother and infant. My Department is advised by the Department of Health that national health policy emphasises the importance of supporting mothers who breastfeed as well as taking action to increase breastfeeding rates in Ireland.

The National Maternity Strategy 2016-2026 states that “in addition to practical supports which can be provided to mothers, such as support to continue breastfeeding on return to the workplace, a broader societal change is required in order to promote a more positive culture around breastfeeding. This should support women to feel confident about their choice to breastfeed”. All local authorities should give this important issue due consideration in the regulation of council meetings.

11/07/2017WRBBB00200Local Authority Staff

11/07/2017WRBBB00300794. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government his plans to provide for maternity leave and paternity leave for councillors and to make arrangements for co-option in such cases. [32171/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB00400Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Section 18(4) of the Local Government Act 2001, as amended, provides that councillors may be absent from meetings of a local authority for up to 6 months, either on health grounds or for another reason in good faith, and retain their seats subject to a resolution of the elected members of the Council. This period may be extended to 12 months, upon the passing of a resolution by the elected members of the Council, and to 18 months, again upon the passing of a resolution by the Council.

Councillors receive a representational payment of €16,645 per annum to support them in carrying out their reserved functions. A councillor who is absent for a period of up to 6 months is entitled to continue to receive the full amount of the representational payment for so long as he or she continues to be a member of their local authority. Councillors who are absent for a period exceeding 6 months may continue to receive 50% of the representational payment for the next succeeding 6 months. No further payments are made for uninterrupted absences that exceed 1 year in duration.

Section 19 of the Act provides for the filling of casual vacancies in the membership of local authorities. A casual vacancy occurs when a person ceases to be a member of a local authority and is filled by co–option whereby the former elected member’s political party may nominate a suitable replacement. However, co-option does not apply in circumstances where a councillor is on a long-term absence as he or she continues to hold their seat in absentia.

609 Questions - Written Answers As it is not possible for two persons concurrently to hold the same seat as public representatives, it would be necessary for an incumbent councillor to resign their seat in order for co- option to be applied. Under the existing statutory provisions it is possible for a resigning councillor, with the agreement of their political party, to resume their seat at a later date via the same co-option mechanism following the resignation of their co-opted replacement.

11/07/2017WRBBB00500Irish Water Administration

11/07/2017WRBBB00600795. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Commu- nity and Local Government if Irish Water will review a charge for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; if he will request that Irish Water meet the person to discuss alternative options; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32204/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB00700Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Since 1 January 2014, Irish Water has statutory responsibility for all aspects of water services planning, delivery and operation at national, regional and local levels. Water mains are an operational matter for the utility and one in which I have no function.

Irish Water has established a dedicated team to deal with representations and queries from public representatives. The team can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by telephone on a dedicated number, 1890 578 578.

Furthermore, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has a statutory responsibility to provide a complaints resolution service to Irish Water customers who have an unresolved dispute with the utility. A Customer Care Team has been setup within the CER to deal directly with customers who have complaints. Further information about CER’s complaints procedure is available on their website at http://www.cer.ie/customer-care/water/complaints./

11/07/2017WRBBB00800Local Authority Boundaries Review

11/07/2017WRBBB00900796. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the status of a village boundary as set out in a local plan in circumstances in which a village plan has expired since 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32234/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB01000Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Development boundaries, as set in statutory development plans and local area plans, indicate a general outline of the intended form of the relevant city, town or village from a planning policy perspective.

The making of a Local Area Plan (LAP) is a reserved function of the elected members of the Council. Under section 18 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended), a LAP must indicate the period for which the plan is to remain in place.

LAPs normally last for six years. However, section 19 of the Act states that not more than 5 years after the making of a LAP, a planning authority may, subject to meeting certain requirements, defer the start of the review process for up to a further five years. The relevant requirements in this regard include that the LAP remains consistent with the objectives and core strategy of the relevant city or county development plan and that the objectives of the LAP have not been substantially secured.

In the circumstances where a LAP has expired and has not been reviewed or renewed, then 610 11 July 2017 the relevant plan is no longer a legal document and the development boundaries described therein would have no practical planning policy or legal effect.

11/07/2017WRBBB01100Building Regulations

11/07/2017WRBBB01200797. Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the progress with the review and updating of the building standards and building classifications being carried out by his Department, taking into account the current difficulties with obtaining green certificates for homes with negligible pyrite levels; when the review will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32246/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB01300Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The Report of the Pyrite Panel (June 2012) recommended a categorisation system as a means of prioritising pyrite remediation works in recognition of the expensive and intrusive nature of pyrite remediation and the unpredictability of pyritic heave. The independent Pyrite Panel was clear in its view that only dwellings with significant damage due to pyritic heave (i.e. red category) should be remediated and that it would be unreasonable to expect dwellings not exhibiting such damage to be remediated. Dwellings which have no significant damage but have reactive pyrite in the hardcore material (i.e. amber category) should be monitored and only remediated if they display significant damage due to pyritic heave. This remains the position with regard to dwellings which do not display significant pyritic damage.

In response to this recommendation, I.S. 398-1:2013 - Reactive pyrite in sub-floor hardcore material – Part 1: Testing and Categorisation, was published by the National Standards Author- ity of Ireland in late January 2013, and provides the means by which dwellings, that may be affected by pyrite can be tested and categorised. In broad terms, the national standard sets out a two-step process to facilitate the testing and categorisation of dwellings.

The first step requires that a Building Condition Assessment be carried out; this comprises a desktop study and a visual non-invasive internal and external inspection of a dwelling to establish the presence or absence of visible damage that is consistent with pyritic heave and to quantify the extent and significance of such damage in that dwelling. A Damage Condition Rating of 0, 1 or 2 can be assigned to a dwelling under this process.

The second step involves the sampling and testing of the sub-floor hardcore material and is informed by the assignment of the Damage Condition Rating under the Building Condition Assessment process. At the conclusion of this two-step process, buildings may be categorised under I.S. 398-1:2013 into four categories which are broadly consistent with the traffic light system that was used by the Pyrite Panel as a means of prioritising pyrite remediation works.

Dwellings which have been tested and the hardcore is shown not to be susceptible to expansion are classified as Category A (known as a “green” certificate). These dwellings have a negligible risk of pyrite damage given the testing has demonstrated that the hardcore is not susceptible to expansion; any damage that may be visible in such dwellings is likely to be attributable to other causes. The other classifications under the standard are:

- Category B – these buildings are at risk but have a low potential of future damage from pyritic heave;

- Category C – these buildings are at risk and have a significant potential of future damage from pyritic heave; and

- Category D – these buildings have a Damage Condition Rating of 2 (i.e. significant pyritic 611 Questions - Written Answers damage), or have a Damage Condition Rating of 1 (with progression), and hardcore susceptible to significant or limited expansion.

The Pyrite Resolution Act 2013 provides for the making of a pyrite remediation scheme by the Pyrite Resolution Board for certain dwellings affected by significant pyrite damage. The pyrite remediation scheme is a scheme of “last resort” and is limited in its application and scope. The full conditions for eligibility under the scheme are set out in the scheme, which is available on the Board’s website (www.pyriteboard.ie) .

The scheme is applicable to dwellings which are subject to significant damage attributable to pyritic heave established in accordance with I.S. 398-1:2013. In this regard, it is a condition of eligibility under the scheme that an application to the Board must be accompanied by a Building Condition Assessment with a Damage Condition Rating of 2. This ensures that, having regard to available resources, the focus of the scheme is on dwellings which are most severely damaged by pyritic heave. Dwellings which do not have a Damage Condition Rating of 2 are not eligible to apply under the scheme. I have no proposals to amend this eligibility criterion.

In late 2015, the National Standards Authority of Ireland commenced a review of I.S. 398- 1:2013 in the light of practical experience since the standard was first introduced in January 2013. The standard is being updated and revised to reflect the on-site experiences and evidence gathered by technical experts, such as engineers, geologists, professionals providing sampling and testing services and other technical experts, who have been using the standard over the past four years. A public consultation on the revision of I.S. 398-1:2013, took place in late 2016. My Department understands that it is anticipated that the revised standard will be published later this year.

With regard to the issue of Category A (known as a “green” certificate), a dwelling is categorised in accordance with I.S. 398-1:2013 on the basis of the findings from the Building Condi- tion Assessment and hardcore classification.

Annex F of I.S. 398-1:2013, provides for a Certificate of Building Categorisation for Reac- tive Pyrite in sub-floor hard-core material. Category A is assigned in respect of dwellings that have been assessed, at the request of the homeowner, in accordance with I.S. 398-1:2013 and are considered have a negligible risk of pyrite damage. The issuing of such certificates is a matter entirely for the homeowner and the professional they engage and it is not part of the pyrite remediation scheme.

Where a dwelling has been remediated under the scheme, at the end of the remediation works, each dwelling is provided with a Certificate of Remediation for Reactive Pyrite in Sub- floor Hard-core Material, which is completed jointly by the relevant builder and the design professional in accordance with Annex B to I.S. 398-2:2013. The certificate confirms that the dwelling has been remediated to the requirements set out in the national standard and the issue of a green certificate does not arise.

11/07/2017WRBBB01400Voluntary Housing Sector

11/07/2017WRBBB01500798. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the efforts his Department has made to work with the voluntary housing sector; if he has developed a central coordination support section to work with the voluntary sector; if it has examined the establishment of a special purpose vehicle to provide long term finance for the sector as promised in the programme for government; and if he will make a statement

612 11 July 2017 on the matter. [32260/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB01600Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Having regard to the Government’s commitment under the Rebuilding Ireland Ac- tion Plan for Housing and Homelessness, published in July 2016, the Housing Agency has established a one-stop-shop unit for the voluntary housing sector with the objective of better coordinating delivery of housing by this sector across all local authority areas. This unit will liaise closely with Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs), my Department and local authorities.

The Action Plan emphasises the need to look at new ways of funding social housing delivery, in particular the need to provide structural, funding and policy supports to increase delivery of social housing by AHBs. In that context, it states that support will be provided to the Irish Council for Social Housing to develop a AHB sector-led new special purpose vehicle.

Funding for the Irish Council for Social Housing totalling some €49,000 to support this initiative was announced on 15 May 2017. The funding is being made available to the Council to establish a sector-led financial vehicle to allow AHBs to expand and to facilitate the delivery of additional housing units. This funding was approved under the AHB Innovation Fund and was part of a total of €104,043 that was allocated across a number of AHBs. The Innovation Fund was established, in line with the commitment made in Rebuilding Ireland, to provide AHBs with the means to test innovative ideas on new funding structures and to build capacity.

11/07/2017WRBBB01700Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRBBB01800799. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the unallocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within his Department’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods and or changes to costs within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32303/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB01900Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): All funds made available to my Department through the budgetary and estimates processes for 2017 have been allocated to specific expenditure programmes as set out in Re- vised Estimates for Public Services 2017 published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

While the need for, and objectives of, expenditure programmes are kept under regular review, there are at present no specific programmes being funded from my Department’s Vote for 2017 that are due to cease operation in the short-term. Similarly, it is not anticipated that significant programme resources will become available from within my Department’s existing expenditure profile in 2018 through the impact of demand or cost factors. Indeed, in relation to housing, additional funding requirements are recognised and provided for in the €5.35 billion of funding committed to under the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan on Housing and Homelessness for the period to 2021.

11/07/2017WRBBB02000Living City Initiative

11/07/2017WRBBB02100800. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the steps his Department has taken to seek planning reforms to incentivise the use of under utilised or vacant areas over ground floor premises in towns, for both residen- 613 Questions - Written Answers tial and commercial use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32316/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB02200Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The Living City Initiative was enacted in the Finance Act 2013 and commenced on 5th May 2015. The Initiative was extended beyond the original planned pilot cities of Limerick and Waterford, to include the cities of Dublin, Cork, Galway and Kilkenny. In line with my De- partment’s commitment to evidence based policy-making, the inclusion of these additional four cities followed the completion of a comprehensive, independent ex-ante cost benefit analysis.

The Deputy may wish to note that the recently launched “Realising our Rural Potential: Ac- tion Plan for Rural Development” by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gael- tacht Affairs contains a detailed list of actions and priorities with a view to revitalising rural Ireland generally. This effort is being led by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in conjunction with Ministers and officials from other Departments, as well as the Local Authorities and a range of other stakeholders.

11/07/2017WRBBB02300Housing Assistance Payments Implementation

11/07/2017WRBBB02400801. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the steps being taken to assist those that have been approved for the housing assistance payment and that cannot source private rented accommodation; if his attention has been drawn to the Government commitment to improve the security of tenure for HAP tenants; the options available to those that cannot even source an initial rental property; if he will carry out a review into the numbers of persons that have been approved for HAP but are unsuccessful in sourcing accommodation; if he has satisfied himself with the housing assistance payment

614 11 July 2017 scheme as being an effective means of delivery for tenants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32318/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB02500Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is a flexible and immediate housing support that is now available to all eligible households throughout the State. The increased 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. On average in 2017, 333 additional tenancies are being supported by HAP each week, with just over 24,000 households currently having their housing needs met via HAP and some 18,000 separate landlords and agents currently in receipt of monthly HAP payments. Particular additional targeted supports are available to homeless households in the Dublin and Cork City regions to assist them in finding accommodation in the private rental market, with the support of HAP.

HAP supported tenancies are agreed between the landlord and the tenant; the local authority is not a party to the tenancy and has no role in its agreement. There is no limitation placed by the scheme on the length of tenancy that can be supported by HAP. However, as with other private rental tenancies, the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 (as amended), governs the relationship between landlord and tenant and the length of the tenancy is a matter that must be agreed between the landlord and tenant in that context.

The Strategy for the Rental Sector, published in December 2016, recognises that high and rapidly rising rents is the most significant and immediate threat to the accommodation security of many households. For this reason the Government introduced the Rent Predictability Measure and established the system of Rent Pressure Zones to moderate the rise in rents in the parts of the country where rents are highest and rising. In these areas, for a period of three years, rents may only rise by a maximum of 4% annually. The practical effect of the measure is that for the next three years, rents, for more than 186,000 households, who currently rent their homes in these areas, will be lower than they would have been if market rents had continued to apply. Rents paid under the HAP scheme are subject to the same measure.

The Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016, which introduced the Rent Predictability Measure with effect from 24 December 2016, also gives effect to other actions to address tenants’ security:

- The abolition of a landlord’s right, during the first 6 months of a further Part 4 tenancy, to end that tenancy for no stated ground;

- The extension of the term of Part 4 tenancies from 4 to 6 years;

- Where a landlord proposes to sell 10 or more units within a single development at the same time, the sale will be subject to the existing tenants remaining in situ, other than in exceptional circumstances.

My Department has initiated a review of the Rent Predictability Measure. At this stage, the measure has been in place for 6 months and data from the Residential Tenancies Board’s Rent Index Report for Quarter 1 2017 is also available. Using this latest data, it will be possible to ascertain the effectiveness of the Rent Predictability Measure and whether any changes need to be made.

I am satisfied that the HAP scheme is generally working well but I will keep its operation under on-going review, including considering its effectiveness as a social housing support, and the impact of the Rent Predictability Measure on Social Housing Supports, including HAP, as

615 Questions - Written Answers part of the current review.

Question No. 802 answered with Question No. 789.

11/07/2017WRBBB02600Capital Assistance Scheme

11/07/2017WRBBB02700803. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the status of the ringfenced funding of €10 million in 2016 under the CAS, specifically for the provision of accommodation for persons with disabilities transitioning from congregated settings as mentioned on page 55 of Rebuilding Ireland; the areas in which this funding was utilised; and the number of housing units delivered. [32360/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB02800Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Ring-fenced funding of €10 million was made available in 2016 under the Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) to support the provision of accommodation for persons with disabilities transitioning from congregated settings. However, take-up was slow, with €2.1 million being approved that year towards accommodation in counties Donegal, Galway, Kildare and Offaly for 20 people who had moved out of congregated settings.

Given the slow take up in 2016, my Department will continue to provide funding in 2017 and beyond to support accommodation for persons transitioning from congregated settings. My Department is also working with the HSE to develop revised guidelines to support increased take-up of available CAS funding for this area of need, in the light of the experience to date.

11/07/2017WRBBB02900Fire Safety

11/07/2017WRBBB03000804. Deputy John Brady asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if he has copies of the reports produced following the fire tragedies in the Oldcourt Estate, Bray, County Wicklow (details supplied); if so, if he will furnish copies of such reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32362/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB03100Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): In 2006, following a number of fires in the Oldcourt Estate, Bray, Co. Wicklow, which resulted in fatalities, Bray Town Council engaged consultants to carry out a condition survey of houses in the estate to include matters relating to fire safety.

In 2007, the Council provided my Department with a copy of the reports referred to by the Deputy and sought funding support for certain improvement works on houses in the Oldcourt Estate. My Department continues to provide funding for the continuation and completion of the necessary upgrade works in the Oldcourt Estate. In relation to furnishing the Deputy with copies of reports, which were commissioned by Bray Town Council, I trust the Deputy will appreciate that the release and circulation of such reports is a matter for the Council.

11/07/2017WRBBB03200Homeless Persons Data

11/07/2017WRBBB03300805. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if the homeless families accommodated in the family hubs are recorded on the PASS system; and if they are included in his Department’s monthly homeless report. [32366/17]

616 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRBBB03400Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Official 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 reports are based on data provided by housing authorities and produced through the Pathway Accommodation & Support System (PASS), the single integrated national data information system on State-funded emergency accommodation arrangements overseen by housing authorities. These reports are published on a monthly basis capturing details of individuals utilising State-funded emergency accommodation arrangements that are overseen by housing authorities.

Given that the new family-focused supported temporary accommodation facilities referred to in the Question are overseen emergency accommodation facilities, the details of households accommodated in such arrangements will be reflected in the monthly reports published by my Department.

11/07/2017WRBBB03500Traveller Accommodation

11/07/2017WRBBB03600806. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the allocation for Traveller accommodation in 2017; the amount of funding drawn down from this budget to date; and the amount his Department expects to draw down by the end of 2017. [32367/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB03700Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): In accordance with the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998, housing authorities have statutory responsibility for the assessment of the accommodation needs of Travellers and the preparation, adoption and implementation of multi-annual Traveller Accom- modation Programmes (TAPs) in their areas. My Department’s role is to ensure that there are adequate structures and supports in place to assist the authorities in providing such accommodation, including a national framework of policy, legislation and funding.

In 2014, local authorities adopted the fourth round of Traveller Accommodation Pro- grammes, with the five-year rolling accommodation programmes running from 2014 to 2018. These programmes provide a road map for local authority investment priorities over the period. They also form the basis for the allocation of funding from the Department for Traveller accommodation, on foot of proposals received from local authorities and subject to approval from my Department.

Capital funding of €9m for Traveller-specific accommodation is being provided in 2017, an increase of €3.5m (64% increase) on the 2016 allocation. This is the third consecutive year that the Traveller Accommodation capital budget has been increased. Based on claims received, over €800,000 has been recouped to Local Authorities to date in 2017. Experience in previous years suggests that capital spend on traveller accommodation projects is generally more heavily concentrated in the second half of the year.

My Department also provides current funding for accommodation-related supports to operate in tandem with the capital programme. Current funding of €4.3m is being provided in 2017. Over €1.9m has been recouped to local authorities in 2017 to date.

My Department will seek to ensure, as far as possible, that the 2017 funding is fully utilised. Expenditure during the year is closely monitored and where potential savings are identified, funding will be reallocated to other schemes. 617 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRBBB03800Homeless Persons Supports

11/07/2017WRBBB03900807. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the amount allocated from his Department to fund homeless services in 2017; the additional allocation to homeless services allocated by the local authorities; the amount spent to date on homeless services; and the expected final expenditure on homeless services by the end of 2017. [32368/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB04000Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): In 2017, current funding totaling €97.8 million is being made available by my De- partment for homeless services overseen by housing authorities, under Section 10 of the Hous- ing Act 1988. The level of funding available from my Department for homelessness services has grown by some 55% since 2014 when €45 million was provided to housing authorities.

It should be noted that housing authorities must provide at least 10% of the cost of any funded services from their own resources. Furthermore, housing authorities may also incur additional expenditure on homeless related services outside of the Section 10 funding arrangements that apply. Therefore, the exact amounts to be spent by housing authorities on homeless services are a matter for those authorities.

To date this year, my Department has made payments of almost €28 million in homeless services funding to housing authorities. I expect the full national allocation to be utilised in 2017 and I will, of course, continue to keep the funding needs of the various authorities under review on an ongoing basis.

Question No. 808 answered with Question No. 792.

Question No. 809 answered with Question No. 789.

11/07/2017WRBBB04200Housing Estates

11/07/2017WRBBB04300810. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if housing developments that are either fully or partially used as holiday homes are excluded from the taking in charge process; if so, the criteria for excluding them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32389/17]

11/07/2017WRBBB04400Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The taking-in-charge of residential estates by planning authorities is provided for under section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and applies to developments which include the construction of two or more houses and the provision of new roads, open spaces car parks, sewers, water mains or service connections relating to such development.

In relation to estates which have been completed to the satisfaction of the planning authority in accordance with the planning permission, section 180(1) of the 2000 Act provides that the planning authority must, if requested to do so by the developer or by the majority of the owners of the houses involved, initiate the taking-in-charge procedures set out in section 11 of the Roads Act 1993. Under section 3 of the 2000 Act, a “house” means a building or part of a building which is being or has been occupied as a dwelling or was provided for use as a dwelling but has not been occupied, and where appropriate, includes a building which was designed for use as two or more dwellings or a flat, an apartment or other dwelling within such a building.

The taking-in-charge provisions in section 180 of the Act do not distinguish between the 618 11 July 2017 various uses of dwellings. However, it should be borne in mind that many holiday-home type accommodation complexes were purpose designed and constructed and approved as dedicated tourism accommodation complexes sharing communal facilities and would normally be subject to planning conditions requiring their onward operation, management and maintenance as a commercial development rather than a residential estate, including the use of management company type arrangements. In such circumstances, taking-in-charge of such developments would not normally arise and any planning conditions relating to maintenance arrangements would be a compliance matter for the relevant owner or operator and for enforcement by the relevant local authority.

11/07/2017WRCCC00200Housing Agency Portfolio

11/07/2017WRCCC00300811. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the amount of the €70 million allocated by his Department in 2017 for the Housing Agency fund to purchase vacant houses which has been drawn down to date; the number of units which have been purchased with this fund to date; the number of these units which have been sold onto local authorities and-or approved housing bodies; and the average cost per unit of the units purchased to date. [32398/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC00400Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Under Actions 1.1, 2.5 and 5.6 of the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness, the Housing Agency is actively engaged with banks and investment companies in relation to its acquisitions programme. The Agency has been tasked with establishing a revolving fund to acquire some 1,600 units over the period to 2020 for social housing use.

In accordance with the Agency’s profile of expenditure and the arrangements in place between my Department and the Agency for the management of the Fund, €70 million has now been drawn down. As of 30 June 2017, the Agency had signed contracts for 362 dwellings and 259 of these purchases have closed. In addition, the Agency has had bids accepted by vendors on a further 100 dwellings.

The process of selling properties on to Approved Housing Bodies is underway. As of 30 June 2017, the Agency had signed purchase option agreements for 242 properties with Ap- proved Housing Bodies, with the closure of these approved sales, and the consequent replenish- ment of the Acquisition Fund, expected to commence in September.

The average cost per unit of the units purchased to date is approximately €166,500.

11/07/2017WRCCC00500Local Authority Housing

11/07/2017WRCCC00600812. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the number of units brought into use via the buy and renew scheme pilot in Louth County Council by unit size; and the average cost of returning these units to use. [32400/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC00700Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Louth County Council’s initiative to buy and renew private properties in need of remediation and make them available for social housing use is ongoing.

I am advised that Louth County Council are targeting 47 properties at present under the buy and renew initiative, of which 11 are renovated and tenanted. A further 12 are undergoing re-

619 Questions - Written Answers mediation, with varying completion dates. The remainder of the targeted properties are at various stage of advancement such as being surveyed, designed, at planning or at tender. Details of the size of individual units is not held in my Department.

Of the completed and tenanted properties, for which all costs are finalised, the average per property cost has been €107,500.

11/07/2017WRCCC00800Capital Expenditure Programme

11/07/2017WRCCC00900813. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the detail of his Department’s capital expenditure allocation in 2016 of €534 million and in 2017 of €732 million by programme or project type, in tabular form. [32486/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC01000Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Details of voted capital allocations for the years concerned in respect of programmes funded by my Department are set out in Revised Estimates for Public Services 2017 published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, details of which are available at pages 165-174 (Vote 34) of the document available at the following link: http://www.per.gov.ie/en/ rev/.

11/07/2017WRCCC01100Departmental Budgets

11/07/2017WRCCC01200814. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government if the 30% capital advance leasing facility, CALF, payment to approved housing bodies for social housing projects funded with Housing Finance Agency, HFA, or private finance comes from his Department’s current or capital budget. [32489/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC01300Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) is capital support provided to approved housing bodies (AHBs), by local authorities, to assist with the financing of the construction or acquisition of units that will be provided for social housing use. CALF can support up to 30% of the eligible capital cost of the project, where the units will be provided under long-term lease arrangements (known as Payment and Availability Agreements) to local authorities for social housing use. The balance of the funding required is usually secured by the AHB from other borrowings, typically from the Housing Finance Agency (HFA). Projects are assessed and approved for CALF funding by my Department following an independent financial assessment undertaken by the Housing Agency. The CALF funding provided to AHBs by local authorities is fully recouped from my Department by local authorities.

CALF is funded from my Department’s capital budget. In 2017, €43m has been made available for this purpose. The ongoing cost of the Payment and Availability Agreements between local authorities and AHBs is paid from my Department’s Social Housing Current Expenditure Programme (SHCEP). In 2017, €83.9m has been made available to the Programme to meet the continuing cost of these contractual arrangements and the cost of new units brought forward for funding during the year.

11/07/2017WRCCC01400Departmental Bodies

11/07/2017WRCCC01500815. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the way in which the membership of the marine protected area expert 620 11 July 2017 advisory group will be selected; the criteria that will be used as part of this selection process; the way in which persons with relevant experience and expertise apply to become part of this group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32528/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC01600Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I will shortly establish an expert advisory group whose terms of reference will include the development of a process for the identification, designation and recommendation of candidate marine areas which require protection.

Work is on-going to determine the appropriate composition of the group and relevant selection criteria and I anticipate that a broad range of relevant stakeholders will be represented.

It is envisaged that the input of specialist experts from Government Departments, state agencies, the environmental NGO community and academia will be invited as well as that of commercial and recreational users of the marine space.

11/07/2017WRCCC01700Living Wage

11/07/2017WRCCC01800816. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed in, or in agencies funded by, his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32561/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC01900Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Payment of salaries to staff of my Department is made in line with pay scales approved by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. If a minimum payment of €11.70 an hour were introduced, the additional costs for my Department are estimated to be in the region of €3,000 annually (not including Employer’s PRSI). This figure reduces as and when the staff concerned progress along an incremental scale.

Insofar as agencies under my Department’s aegis are 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 as follows:

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] Irish Water Safety [email protected] Local Government Management Agency [email protected] Residential Tenancies Board [email protected] Pobal [email protected]

11/07/2017WRCCC02000Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRCCC02100817. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the detail of his Department’s expenditure allocation in 2016 of €401 million and in 2017 of €566 million by project or programme type, in tabular form. [32576/17]

621 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRCCC02200Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I refer to the reply to Question No. 234 of 30 May 2017, which provided the Deputy with details on housing expenditure in 2016 and the allocation for housing programmes in 2017 in relation to both capital and current programmes. The details now requested by the Deputy in respect of current housing programmes in 2016 and for 2017, are provided in the following table.

Housing Programme 2016 Expenditure€million[1] 2017 Allocation€million[2] Social Housing Current Ex- 54.03 83.95 penditure Programme Rental Accommodation 131.00 134.34 Scheme Housing Assistance Payment 57.70 152.70 Affordable Rental Pilot 0 10 Capital Loan and Subsidy 55.34 69.75 Scheme Traveller Accommodation 4.66 4.22 and Support National Traveller Consulta- 0.008 0.01 tive Committee Accommodation for Home- 88.68 97.87 less Housing for People with a 0.09 1.0 Disability Affordable Housing/Shared 3.69 4.33 Ownership Subsidy Legal Fees – Housing 0.170 0.09 Housing & Building Stan- 1.04 0.80 dards Research Housing and Sustainable 4.07 5.20 Communities Agency Residential Tenancies Board 0.668 1.85 Total 401.146 566.11 [1] Includes expenditure by local authorities from surplus LPT receipts

[2] Includes surplus LPT allocation

11/07/2017WRCCC02300Water and Sewerage Schemes Funding

11/07/2017WRCCC02400818. Deputy Kevin O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 637 of 4 July 2017, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the only measure under which Cork County Council could have applied for funding for this specific group scheme was measure 3 and it was not recommended for funding as it was considered outside the scope for measure 3; and if he has given consideration to making such measures more flexible to ensure that group schemes such as in the case of persons (details supplied) can avail of much needed funding. [32587/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC02500Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I refer to the reply to Question No 637 of 4 July 2017.

622 11 July 2017 I understand that a proposal for the Ballyduff Upper Group Water Scheme was received in the past week in my Department and this will be examined as soon as possible.

My Department’s Multi-annual Rural Water Programme 2016 - 2018 is focused on existing quality deficient group water schemes, particularly through Measure 1 of the programme, to ensure compliance with the Drinking Water Regulations 2014. The invitation to local authorities earlier this year for funding addressed this as follows:

- schemes that were on my Department’s Remedial Action List for Group Water Schemes (these quality deficient schemes were the particular focus of the invitation);

- schemes that were not on my Department’s Remedial Action List for Group Water Schemes (this allowed for the evolving and dynamic nature of the list); and

- schemes that are not fully regulated (i.e. due to their small size fall below the threshold for full application of the regulations) whereby a block grant is available for funding improvements for such schemes.

I am therefore satisfied that the funding arrangements under the programme have the required flexibility to deliver group water scheme compliance with the Drinking Water Regula- tions 2014.

11/07/2017WRCCC02600Local Authority Expenditure

11/07/2017WRCCC02700819. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government the amount spent by local authorities on outsourcing for each of the years 2008 to 2016 and to date in 2017, by local authority and department. [32604/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC02800Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The information in relation to the amount spent by local authorities on outsourcing for each of the years 2008 to 2016 and to date in 2017 in each of the local authorities is not available in my Department. Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for the staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible.

11/07/2017WRCCC02900Local Authority Staff Data

11/07/2017WRCCC03000820. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government the direct employment staffing levels at local authorities in each of the years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017, by local authority and department within each local authority. [32605/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC03100Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department is responsible for workforce planning for the local government sector, including monitoring of local government sector employment levels. Staffing numbers for the local authority sector are available on the Public Service Numbers Databank website, which is hosted and maintained by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, the local government element of which is available at the following link: http://databank.per.gov.ie/ Public_Service_Numbers.aspx?rep=LA. The site provides access to local government sector staffing data from 2008 to end Q1 2017, which are the most recent figures available.

The data gathered focuses on broad numbers relating to employees, and is not broken down 623 Questions - Written Answers by department.

Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for the staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible. In this regard, it is a matter for each individual Chief Executive to recruit and assign staff to specific functional areas.

11/07/2017WRCCC03200Local Authority Staff Data

11/07/2017WRCCC03300821. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government the number of staff that have retired from the outdoor road staff and housing maintenance departments within local authorities in each of the years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017, by local authority and category. [32606/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC03400822. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government the number of staff taken on in the outdoor road and housing maintenance sections in each of the years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017, by category and sourcing of staff, that is, transferred staff, direct employment, Gateway scheme, private contractors, agency workers and so on. [32607/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC03500Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 821 and 822 together.

My Department gathers quarterly data on staff numbers in local authorities. The data gathered does not provide detail in respect of the number of staff that have retired from the outdoor road staff and housing maintenance departments. Neither does it provide detail on the number of staff taken on in the outdoor road and housing maintenance sections in each of the years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017, by category and sourcing of staff, that is, transferred staff, direct employment, gateway scheme, private contractors, agency workers. Accordingly, the information requested is not available in my Department.

The following table shows the total number of outdoor workers from Dec 2014 to the most recent figures available i.e. March 2017.

December 2014 December December 2016 March 2017 - (WTE) 2015 - (WTE) - (WTE) (WTE) Total Number of 10,857.31 10,557.59 10,415.26 10,379.37 outdoor workers Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each Chief Executive is responsible for the staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible. In this regard, it is a matter for each individual Chief Executive to recruit and assign staff to specific functional areas.

11/07/2017WRCCC03700Social and Affordable Housing Eligibility

11/07/2017WRCCC03800823. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Com- munity and Local Government if the income thresholds for social housing and for housing assistance payment, HAP, are calculated in the same manner. [32608/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC03900Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Under the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness, the Hous- 624 11 July 2017 ing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme is one of the suite of social housing options available to local authorities to meet housing need. Once a household has been deemed eligible for social housing support, it is a matter for the local authority to examine the suite of social housing supports available, including the HAP scheme, to determine the most appropriate form of support for that household.

The Social Housing Assessment Regulations 2011 prescribe maximum net income limits for each housing authority, in different bands according to the area, with income being defined and assessed according to a standard Household Means Policy. The Regulations and associated Policy apply to all forms of social housing support, including the HAP scheme.

11/07/2017WRCCC04000Rental Accommodation Scheme Data

11/07/2017WRCCC04100824. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government the number of households availing of support under the RAS scheme in each year since its establishment and to date in 2017. [32615/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC04200Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) has been an important contributor to social housing supply since its introduction on a pilot basis in 2005. From its commencement in late 2005 to 31 May 2017, some 33,992 households have been transferred from Rent Supple- ment to RAS.

My Department does not hold information on the current number of households in RAS at any given time. Numbers in RAS constantly vary as contracts end, tenants move on to other properties, landlords withdraw from the scheme, new tenancies are allocated or vacancies in contracted units are filled. Data relating to the number of households availing of support under RAS from 2011 to 2015 can be found on my Department’s website at the following link: http:// www.housing.gov.ie/housing/social-housing/social-and-affordble/overall-social-housing-provision.

My Department is currently updating and reviewing the RAS data collection and management process. In that context, data relating to 2016 is currently in the process of being gathered from local authorities and will be published on my Department’s website when available. The provisional data indicates that some 1,250 households were supported under RAS in 2016.

11/07/2017WRCCC04300Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRCCC04400825. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32650/17]

11/07/2017WRCCC04500Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): My Department did not incur any expenditure on public relations or media interview training and preparation in the past five years. Details of expenditure from 2012 to 2016 on photography, advertising, communications advice and website development is set out in the following tables. 625 Questions - Written Answers Year Photography costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2012 €170.00 Launch of CEDRA Maxwell Photog- raphy 2012 €172.00 Minister Paul Connor Pho- O’Sullivan’s visit to tography NAMA properties leased to LA, Scotch Hall, Drogheda 2012 €363.00 Putting People First Maxwell Photog- launch raphy 2012 €485.00 Launch of frame- Maxwell Photog- work for Sustainable raphy Development 2012 €3,257.00 Long Service Awards Maxwell Photog- by National Direc- raphy torate Fire & Emer- gency Management 2013 €103.00 EU Presidency: Maxwell Photog- Informal Council raphy of EU Environment Ministers - Clean Tech Cluster Forum and Expo, Wood Quay 2013 €172.00 Long Service Awards Maxwell Photog- by National Direc- raphy torate Fire & Emer- gency Management 2013 €308.00 EU Presidency: Se- Maxwell Photog- nior Officials Meet- raphy ing of Water and Marine Directors, Dublin Castle 2013 €362.00 Minister Maxwell Photog- O’Sullivan’s visit raphy to Fingal Co Co housing insulation retro- fit project in Corduff, Blanchard- stown 2013 €448.00 Ireland’s Best Kept Maxwell Photog- Town Awards raphy 2014 €551.00 Launch of Social Maxwell Photog- Housing Strategy raphy 2014 €2,161.00 Long Service Awards Maxwell Photog- by National Direc- raphy torate Fire & Emer- gency Management

626 11 July 2017 Year Photography costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2015 €23.50 Long Service Awards Maxwell Photog- by National Direc- raphy torate Fire & Emer- gency Management 2015 €80.00 Photograph of Min- Information not ister Alan Kelly and available Pope Francis at the EU Environment Ministers’ meeting on Climate Change in the Vatican 2015 €107.83 Social Housing Con- Kenny Photo struction Programme Graphics 2015 €184.50 Photographs of Gerard Hore Pho- Wexford-based tography senior managers for the Whodoeswhat. gov.ie website 2015 €239.85 Ireland’s Best Kept Lensmen Photog- Town Awards raphy 2015 €246.00 Launch of Diversity Redmonds of Ro- Award 2015 screa 2015 €326.91 Photographs of Lafayette Gradua- Dublin-based senior tion Services managers for the Whodoeswhat.gov.ie website 2015 €369.00 Rural policy launch MacMonagle Pho- in Caherciveen tography 2016 €90.00 Photographs of Corrine Beatty Pho- Ballina-based senior tography managers for the Whodoeswhat.gov.ie website 2016 €308.42 Material for pub- Maxwell Photog- lic display in the raphy reopened Custom House Visitor Centre 2016 €413.28 Announcement of Maxwell Photog- €25m for the first raphy phase of the Dolphin House Regeneration Project 2016 €430.50 Launch of the 2016- Maxwell Photog- 2020 Fire Services raphy Capital Programme

627 Questions - Written Answers Year Photography costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2016 €602.70 Announcement of Maxwell Photog- ERDF grant assis- raphy tance to local authority capital works under the Desig- nated Urban Centres Grants Scheme 2014 – 2020 2016 €22,129.20 Video production - Glasseye Produc- National Planning tions Framework 2016 €38,900.00 Rebuilding Ireland. BigO The photography costs refer to videos and social media. Year Advertising costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2012 €196.80 Implementing Met IPA Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2012 €4,236.12 Implementing Met TRUVO Ireland Éireann’s role as Ltd. (Golden Pages/ Ireland’s National The Phone Book) Meteorological Service 2012 €5,000.00 IFA Sheep Worrying IFA radio campaign 2012 €35,881.71 Local Electoral Area Brindley Advertis- Boundary Commit- ing tee 2012 €99,103.76 Referendum - Brindley Advertis- Treaty on Stabil- ing ity, Coordination and Governance in the Economic and Monetary Union 2012 €100,319.83 Referendum – Chil- Brindley Advertis- dren ing 2012 €116,530.84 Leaflet drop in City Post respect of the House- hold Charge – paid to Door To Door Distributors

628 11 July 2017 Year Advertising costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2012 €321,884.00 National Fire Safety Lyle Bailie Week and associated Fire Safety Promo- tion 2013 €60.00 Implementing Met Ulster Bank Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2013 €196.80 Implementing Met IPA Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2013 €790.53 Local Electoral Brindley Advertis- Area Boundary ing Committee 2013 €4,110.66 Implementing Met TRUVO Ireland Éireann’s role as Ltd. (Golden Pages/ Ireland’s National The Phone Book) Meteorological Service 2013 €4,329.78 Public consultation Brindley Advertis- on General Scheme ing of the Maritime Area and Foreshore (Amendment) Bill 2013 €4,390.27 Public consultation Mediavest on Foreshore Envi- ronmental Impact Assessment Regula- tions 2013 €16,909.00 Responsible dog Independent Radio ownership radio Sales Ltd. campaign 2013 €17,897.55 Draft Register of Brindley Advertis- Electors Awareness ing Campaign 2013 €19,508.70 European Parliament Brindley Advertis- Constituency Com- ing mission 2013 €26,513.00 Draft Register of Mediavest Electors Awareness Campaign 2013 €33,217.31 Bye Election - Meath Brindley Advertis- East ing

629 Questions - Written Answers Year Advertising costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2013 €43,845.85 Referendums - Brindley Advertis- Abolition of Seanad ing Éireann and Court of Appeal 2013 €342,259.00 National Fire Safety ICAN Ltd Week and associated Fire Safety Promo- tion 2014 €196.80 Implementing Met IPA Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2014 €4,110.66 Implementing Met TRUVO Ireland Éireann’s role as Ltd. (Golden Pages/ Ireland’s National The Phone Book) Meteorological Service 2014 €26,440.05 Draft Register of Mediavest Electors Awareness Campaign 2014 €36,474.64 Bye Elections - Dub- Mediavest lin West and Long- ford-Westmeath 2014 €59,223.27 European and Local Mediavest Elections 2014 €106,465.00 Public Consultation Mediavest for Review of Devel- opment Management Guidelines 2014 €326,934.00 National Fire Safety ICAN Ltd Week and associated Fire Safety Promo- tion 2015 €430.50 Implementing Met Guerin Media Ltd. Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2015 €1,927.25 Marine Strategy USB Ireland Framework Direc- tive Programme of measures information dissemination

630 11 July 2017 Year Advertising costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2015 €4,110.66 Implementing Met FCR Media Ltd., Éireann’s role as formerly TRUVO Ireland’s National Ireland Meteorological Service 2015 €7,693.86 Marine Strategy MediaVest Framework Directive public consultation 2015 €21,172.54 Draft Register of Mediavest Electors Awareness Campaign 2015 €64,524.85 Referendums - Mediavest Marriage Equality and Age of Eligibil- ity for Election to the Office of President; Bye Election - Car- low-Kilkenny 2015 €361,548.00 National Fire Safety ICAN Ltd Week and associated Fire Safety Promo- tion 2016 €430.50 Implementing Met Guerin Media Ltd. Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2016 €2,118.06 Implementing Met FCR Media Ltd., Éireann’s role as formerly TRUVO Ireland’s National Ireland Meteorological Service 2016 €5,559.60 Logo design - Na- Power Design tional Planning Framework 2016 €8,769.62 Constituency Com- Havas Media mission 2016 €9,551.57 General Election Havas Media 2016 €11,712.68 Draft Register of Havas Media Electors Awareness Campaign 2016 €15,237.29 Draft Register of Mediavest Electors Awareness Campaign 2016 €20,283.74 Constituency Com- Mediavest mission 2016 €50,011.98 General Election Mediavest

631 Questions - Written Answers Year Advertising costs Relevant Cam- Payee paign or Policy 2016 €333,078.00 National Fire Safety ICAN Ltd Week and associated Fire Safety Promo- tion Year Communications Relevant Cam- Payee Advice costs paign or Policy 2016 €460.00 Communications NALA Advice to ensure an information leaflet was in plain English Year Website Devel- Relevant Cam- Payee opment costs paign or Policy 2012 €1,366.80 RX3.ie RPS 2012 €3,842.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2012 €33,000.00 Askaboutireland LGMA 2013 €8,369.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2013 €8,369.41 Fire Safety Week ICON Ltd 2013 €23,988.69 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance 2013 €25,000.00 Askaboutireland LGMA 2013 €50,000.00 Myplan.ie ESRI 2014 €543.60 Fire Safety Week ICON Ltd 2014 €659.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2014 €771.00 Tidy Towns Awards Trinsic Software 2014 €3,554.00 Brownbin Cré 2014 €25,000.00 Askaboutireland LGMA 2014 €351,849.21 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance 2015 €344.40 Unfinished Housing Edwin Wymer Development Survey 2015 €1,487.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW

632 11 July 2017 Year Website Devel- Relevant Cam- Payee opment costs paign or Policy 2015 €9,938.40 Implementing Met Fusio Ltd. Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2015 €23,290.80 Environ/Housing Annertech Ltd Website 2015 €208,667.77 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance 2016 €1,180.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2016 €27,613.50 Environ/Housing Annertech Ltd Website 2016 €31,109.78 Implementing Met Fusio Ltd. Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2016 €54,600.00 Rebuilding Ireland. BigO The photography costs refer to videos and social media. 2016 €215,545.88 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance Year Website Devel- Relevant Cam- Payee opment costs paign or Policy 2012 €1,366.80 RX3.ie RPS 2012 €3,842.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2012 €33,000.00 Askaboutireland LGMA 2013 €8,369.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2013 €8,369.41 Fire Safety Week ICON Ltd 2013 €23,988.69 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance 2013 €25,000.00 Askaboutireland LGMA 2013 €50,000.00 Myplan.ie ESRI

633 Questions - Written Answers Year Website Devel- Relevant Cam- Payee opment costs paign or Policy 2014 €543.60 Fire Safety Week ICON Ltd 2014 €659.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2014 €771.00 Tidy Towns Awards Trinsic Software 2014 €3,554.00 Brownbin Cré 2014 €25,000.00 Askaboutireland LGMA 2014 €351,849.21 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance 2015 €344.40 Unfinished Housing Edwin Wymer Development Survey 2015 €1,487.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2015 €9,938.40 Implementing Met Fusio Ltd. Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2015 €23,290.80 Environ/Housing Annertech Ltd Website 2015 €208,667.77 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance 2016 €1,180.00 Website updates for ICAN Ltd NFSW 2016 €27,613.50 Environ/Housing Annertech Ltd Website 2016 €31,109.78 Implementing Met Fusio Ltd. Éireann’s role as Ireland’s National Meteorological Service 2016 €54,600.00 Rebuilding Ireland. BigO The photography costs refer to videos and social media. 2016 €215,545.88 Internal website incl IT Alliance business process improvement, business analysis & support and maintenance Insofar as agencies under my Department’s aegis are concerned, arrangements have been put in place by each Agency to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the 634 11 July 2017 Oireachtas. The contact email address for each agency is as follows.

Agency Email address 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] Irish Water Safety [email protected] Local Government Management Agency [email protected] Residential Tenancies Board [email protected] Pobal [email protected]

11/07/2017WRDDD00200Social and Affordable Housing Funding

11/07/2017WRDDD00300826. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the status of an application by Meath County Council for 25 housing units in Dunshaughlin, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32669/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD00400827. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the reason certain applications for social housing funding by Meath County Council were not successful in the recent allocations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32670/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD00500Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 826 and 827 together.

A proposal for a 25 unit project in Dunshaughlin was recently submitted to my Department from Meath County Council.

Following an initial examination of the proposal, additional information was sought from Meath County Council in order to facilitate a full assessment of the project in question. I am advised that Meath County Council are currently preparing a response to my Department’s queries and the Deputy can be assured that on receipt of this response, my Department will complete its assessment of this project and revert to Meath County Council on this issue, as a matter of urgency.

11/07/2017WRDDD00700Legislative Measures

11/07/2017WRDDD00800828. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the reason behind the changes to section 42 of the Planning and Develop- ment Act 2000 made in section 28 of the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016. [32743/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD00900829. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the reason the changes to section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 made in section 28 of the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 have not yet been commenced. [32744/17]

635 Questions - Written Answers

11/07/2017WRDDD01000830. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if the European Commission was in contact with Ireland regarding the changes to section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 made in section 28 of the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 in advance of or subsequent to the enactment of the 2016 Act; and if so, the content of such communications. [32745/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD01100Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 828 to 830, inclusive, together.

Section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, provides that a planning authority may, on application and in certain circumstances, extend once only the duration of an existing planning permission for a maximum period of 5 years, subject, at the authority’s discretion, to compliance with certain conditions.

The Government’s Rebuilding Ireland: Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness committed to give further consideration to amending section 42 of the 2000 Act to provide for a further extension of the duration of current permissions that have already benefitted from one extension of duration for a specified period. Legislative amendments to give effect to this commitment are provided for in section 28(2) of the Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016, amending section 42 of the 2000 Act, and, inter alia, are limited to housing developments of 20 units or more which have substantial works carried out.

In addition, section 28(1) of the 2016 Act inserted an amended eligibility condition into section 42 of the 2000 Act relating to environmental impact assessment (EIA) and appropriate assessment (AA). It provides that any developments that required EIA or AA at the time of the original permission will not qualify for an extension of duration of the permission and the new condition will apply to both developments where substantial work has been completed and developments where work has not commenced. The purpose of this amended eligibility condition is to avoid an extension of time being granted for developments where, for whatever reason, EIA or AA was required but not carried out at the time of the original permission or where EIA or AA was carried out at that time but is now arguably out of date.

Due to the drafting construction of section 28 of the 2016 Act with these two separate provisions, it has not been possible to specifically commence the second provision above without also commencing the first, which was always intended to be commenced at a later date to allow any potentially impacted developments to prepare for these new legislative requirements. Ac- cordingly, I am proposing to make certain necessary amendments to section 28(2) of the 2016 Act to address this issue.

It was originally intended to make these amendments in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2016 which is progressing through the Oireachtas and is presently at Dáil Report Stage. However, due to the limited time available in the current session, I have obtained Government approval to introduce these amendments in a short priority Bill – the Planning and Development (Amendment)(No.2) Bill 2017 – with a view to completing its passage through both Houses before the Oireachtas Summer recess. Following enactment, I will be in a position to commence section 28(2), relating to the potential for a second extension of duration for planning permissions for housing developments of 20 units or more, as a matter of priority. Subsequently, I will then consider the commencement of section 28(1).

I have not had any engagement with the European Commission on this proposed provision.

11/07/2017WRDDD01400Local Authority Housing Waiting Lists 636 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WRDDD01500831. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to an anomalous situation in Dublin City Council whereby persons and families who are on the housing transfer list can see their positions on the list stagnate or regress owing to others joining the list from different areas and priority bands; if he will liaise with Dublin City Council to ensure that priority is given to those that have been waiting longest for transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32933/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD01600Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The oversight and management of housing waiting lists, including the allocation and transfer of tenancies, is a matter for the relevant housing authority in accordance with the Hous- ing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009, and associated regulations.

Section 22 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 requires all housing authorities, as a reserved function, to make an allocation scheme determining the order of priority to be accorded in the allocation of dwellings to households qualified for social housing support and to households approved for a transfer, the allocation of which would, in the opinion of the authority, meet the accommodation needs and requirements of the households.

Section 22(17) of the 2009 Act provides that the Minister’s power to direct a housing authority regarding the operation of its allocation scheme shall not be construed or operate to enable the Minister to direct the allocation of a dwelling to a particular household.

I am, therefore, precluded from intervening in relation to the procedures followed, or decisions made, by housing authorities in the allocation of particular dwellings.

11/07/2017WRDDD01700Housing Policy

11/07/2017WRDDD01800832. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 636 of 27 June 2017, if the Nevin Eco- nomic Research Institute, NERI, will be a member of this expert group in view of the housing crisis and the fact that the target date for the report from the expert group to be delivered by the end of the third quarter is no later than the fourth quarter of 2017. [32959/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD01900833. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 637 of 27 June 2017 (details supplied), the scale of the cost rental agency being considered; and his views on whether it should be aim- ing at 10,000 to 20,000 rental units per annum on local authority lands such as St. Michael’s estate in Inchicore. [32960/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD02000Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): I propose to take Questions Nos. 832 and 833 together.

The Strategy for the Rental Sector, published in December 2016, noted that the Programme for a Partnership Government contains a commitment to develop a “cost rental” option, taking account of work already completed in this area, including by the National Economic and Social Council and others.

In line with this commitment, Action 12 of the Strategy commits my Department to lead an expert group to develop a cost rental model for the Irish rental sector. This Group will address issues such as funding mechanisms, the need to grow the necessary institutional capacity, particularly within the AHB and not-for-profit sector (whether through mergers, new entrants or strategic partnerships), rent levels, the households to be targeted and the appropriate regulation 637 Questions - Written Answers mechanisms.

The Expert Group will assess the benefits that a larger and more developed not-for-profit segment would bring to the rental sector and the housing system, by increasing supply of rental accommodation for middle-income households and ensuring new capacity is developed and attracted into Ireland. The Expert Group will also consider various proposals, including the proposal to establish a semi-State company to progress the cost rental model, in the course of its work.

It is my intention to establish this Expert Group in the coming weeks and the development of a proposal regarding its membership and terms of reference is currently being prepared in my Department. As committed in the Rental Strategy, it is envisaged that the Expert Group will report initially before the end of the year.

11/07/2017WRDDD02200Homeless Accommodation Provision

11/07/2017WRDDD02300834. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Lo- cal Government his plans for family hubs in areas of Rathfarnham, Templeogue, Terenure and Tallaght; the number of hubs planned; the location of each; the number of families to be accommodated in each location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33034/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD02400Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): As part of the response to the commitment contained in the Rebuilding Ireland Ac- tion Plan on Housing and Homelessness that, by mid-2017, hotels will only be used as emergency accommodation in limited circumstances, housing authorities are delivering a number of family-focused, supported temporary accommodation facilities. These custom-developed facilities will offer family living arrangements with a greater level of stability than is possible in hotel accommodation while move-on options to long-term independent living are identified and secured. Furthermore, such arrangements will facilitate more coordinated needs assessment and support planning, including on-site access to required services, such as welfare, health, housing services, cooking and laundry facilities and appropriate family supports.

Statutory responsibility in relation to the provision of accommodation and related services for homeless persons rests with individual housing authorities, while my Department’s role involves the provision of a national framework of policy, legislation and funding. It will therefore be a matter for the relevant housing authorities to consider the ongoing need for such facilities in their areas within the overall context of their social housing delivery programmes.

In relation to the Deputy’s specific query, there are currently 15 supported temporary accommodation facilities advancing in the Dublin region; however, none of these are currently located in the areas referred to by the Deputy. It should be noted that specific information in relation to the number of families accommodated in individual facilities in Dublin is a matter for the Dublin Region Homeless Executive.

11/07/2017WRDDD02500Planning Issues

11/07/2017WRDDD02600835. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government if construction work can be carried out in areas in which planning permission was granted that was subject to an environmental impact assessment in circumstances in which it is not in line with the planning permission granted; if the planning authority or An Bord Pleanála can grant permission for retention works that have already commenced; and if he will 638 11 July 2017 make a statement on the matter. [33042/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD02700Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): Under the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended (the Act), all development, unless specifically exempted under the Act or associated Regulations, requires planning permission.

Any development that is carried out without planning permission or that does not comply with the terms of a planning permission is unauthorised development and may be subject to enforcement action by a planning authority. Responsibility for enforcement action in relation to any breach of the planning code is a matter for individual planning authorities and there are extensive enforcement provisions provided for in Part VIII of the Act.

Where a development has been carried out without first obtaining the necessary planning permission, the developer may apply to their planning authority for retention permission. An application for retention permission is required to be assessed by a planning authority in the same way as any other application, that is, the planning authority is required to consider the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, having regard to the provisions of the development plan, any submissions or observations received, and relevant Ministerial or Gov- ernment policies, including any guidelines issued by my Department.

However, section 34(12) of the Act specifically provides that applications for retention permission must not be accepted where a planning authority decides that if an application had been made in respect of the development concerned before it commenced, the application would have required an environmental impact assessment or an appropriate assessment, or would have required a determination as to whether an environmental impact assessment or an appropriate assessment was required.

Where the planning authority refuses to consider an application in these circumstances, it is open to the applicant to pursue the matter under the existing procedures for substitute consent under Part XA of the Act, in which case an application must be made to An Bord Pleanála, seeking leave to apply for substitute consent in the first instance.

11/07/2017WRDDD02800Library Services Funding

11/07/2017WRDDD02900836. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government the funding available for a project (details supplied); the details of funding provided to end of 2016, available in 2017 and expected funds to be available in 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33047/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD03000Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government (Deputy Eoghan Murphy): The development of Portlaoise Library is supported by my Department under the Li- braries Capital Investment Programme 2016-2021. Under the programme, my Department has allocated a contribution of €1.65million towards the overall cost of the proposed development.

No funding has been drawn down by Laois County Council to date in respect of this project. However, work has commenced on the development of the project and it is expected that funds will be drawn down by Laois County Council on a phased basis over the period 2018-2019.

11/07/2017WRDDD03100Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRDDD03200837. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the un- 639 Questions - Written Answers allocated spend within his Department for 2017; the expenditure allocated to programmes in 2017 which are due to cease in 2017; the funds that will become available within his Depart- ment’s expenditure profile in 2018 due to changes in demand for services and goods and-or changes to costs within his Department and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32241/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD03300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The total gross budget allocation for the Defence and Army Pension Votes in 2017 is over €921m. This allocation provides for the pay and allowances of the Defence Forces and civil servants and civilian employees in the Defence Sector, ongoing standing and operational costs of the Defence Forces and also facilitates investment in essential equipment and infrastucture. It also provides for the payment of pension entitlements to former members of the Defence Forces as well as funding for Civil Defence and a grant towards the running costs of the Irish Red Cross.

The budget allocation allows the Defence Forces to deliver on all their assigned roles, both at home and overseas, and facilitates investment in essential equipment and infrastructure, as set out in the White Paper on Defence.

The Defence and Army Pensions Estimate Provision for 2017 is expected to be fully expended by year-end. The expenditure allocation for 2018 will not be settled until the budgetary process is concluded later in the year. No reduction in demand for goods and services is envisaged for 2018. Defence expenditure programmes are on-going in nature and none are due to cease in 2017, with capital programmes for replacement of essential equipment for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service and upgrade of Defence Forces built infrastructure continuing to require funding for 2018 and subsequent years.

11/07/2017WRDDD03400Protected Disclosures

11/07/2017WRDDD03500838. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the reason the Air Corps is proceeding with attempts to medically dismiss a serving Air Corps health and safety whistleblower, whom he met recently, in direct contravention of the Protected Disclo- sures Act 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32457/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD03600Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Deputy will appreciate that it would be inappropriate of me to comment on individual personnel cases. However, I can assure the Deputy that the Defence Forces and my Department are fully committed to compliance with the requirements of the Protected Disclosures Act, 2014, and to the protections contained in that Act.

11/07/2017WRDDD03700Living Wage

11/07/2017WRDDD03800839. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the cost of implementing a living wage of €11.70 for all employees directly employed in, or in agencies funded by, his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32559/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD03900Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Defence Or- ganisation includes civil servants, military personnel and civilian employees attached to military installations.

The annual cost, including Employer’s PRSI, of implementing a living wage of €11.70 per hour in respect of Civil Service Staff and Civilian Employees employed by my Department is

640 11 July 2017 estimated at €82,464.98. The costs in relation to Civilian Employees do not include those employees who are undergoing apprenticeship training.

The pay structures and conditions of service of members of the Permanent Defence Force contain professional and technical remuneration elements in addition to allowances in the nature of pay which reflect the unique aspects of military life both at home and abroad. As such, the non-standard time and attendance patterns of military personnel and the rates of remuneration associated with a wide spectrum of duties undertaken by such military personnel can vary across the different branches of the Defence Forces and, consequently, does not facilitate the general application of a threshold rate of pay.

11/07/2017WRDDD04000Departmental Expenditure

11/07/2017WRDDD04100840. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the level of expenditure by his Department or organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the past five years 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. [32648/17]

11/07/2017WRDDD04200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The total expenditure by the Department of Defence for photography, advertising, public relations, website development and media interview training and preparation in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016 and up to 6 July 2017 is set out in the following tables. There was no expenditure in the past five years on communications advice.

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:

Year Company Total 2012 Fennell Photography €116.85 2013 Maxwell Photography €17.22 2014 Maxwell Photography €713.40 2017 Maxwell Photography €590.40 Advertising:

Year Company Total 2012 Ard Education €1,476.00 Roscrea People €300.00 Public Appointments Ser- €10,938.73 vice Reed Business Information €760.06 Ltd Brindley Advertising €29,884.24 North Wicklow Times €959.40 The Heritage Guide €630.00 2013 Ard Education €677.00 641 Questions - Written Answers Year Company Total Roscrea People €300.00 Mediavest €49,807.08 Brindley Advertising €52,917.31 Health & Safety Times €1,230.00 North Wicklow Times €1,199.25 Walking World Ireland €1,353.00 Irish Food Publishers €774.90 2014 Health & Safety Times €861.00 Ard Education €800.00 Roscrea People €300.00 Mediavest €90,783.82 North Wicklow Times €1,199.25 Irish Food Publishers €774.90 2015 Ard Education €800.00 Roscrea People €300.00 Mediavest Ltd. €77,949.90 Silchester Marketing €879.45 North Wicklow Times €1,199.25 Irish Food Publishers €774.90 2016 JP Devlin Media €4,982.00 Ard Education €984.00 Digital Media Enterprises €529.00 Roscrea People €300.00 Mediavest Ltd. €85,579.42 North Wicklow Times €1,199.25 Irish Food Publishers €774.90 IASW €300.00 1.1.2017 to 6.7.2017 Mediavest €28,607.32 North Wicklow Times €959.40 Europus €61.50 Public Relations:

Year Company Total 2015 Seven Star Ireland €3,383.00 Website Development:

Year Company Total 2012 Webcloud €2,140.20 2014 Fusio Ltd €15,990.00 Media Interview Training:

Year Company Total 2016 Carr Communications €750.00

11/07/2017WREEE00250Ministerial Transport 642 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WREEE00300841. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of times the Government has utilised Cork Airport in each of the years 2014 to 2016 and to date in 2017 using the ministerial air transport service for the transport of Government Ministers; the type of air transport used on each occasion; the Minister transported on each trip; the number of personnel used; the reason for each trip; and the cost per trip to the Defence Forces. [32772/17]

11/07/2017WREEE00400Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Ministerial air transport service is provided by the Air Corps to assist the President and members of the Government in fulfilling their official engagements at home and abroad. Updated statistical information relating to the use of the service is published on my Department’s website on a monthly basis. Average hourly cost information relating to the service is also available on my Department’s website.

The Ministerial air transport service utilised Cork airport once during the period from 2014 to date in 2017. The specific information sought by the Deputy is detailed in the following table.

Date Departure date 04/09/2014 Return date 04/09/2014 Ministerial time on board (Minutes) 90 Route Baldonnel - Cork - Cardiff - Baldonnel Department Department of Defence Passengers Minister plus 4 passengers Aircraft Learjet 45 Crew 3 Learjet 45 - average total cost per hour €4,940

11/07/2017WREEE00500Air Corps Strength

11/07/2017WREEE00600842. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which he remains satisfied regarding the strength of the Air Corps with particular reference to the ability to rapidly respond to emergencies; if quality and availability of aircraft, personnel and communications equipment are equally available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32977/17]

11/07/2017WREEE00700Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): My priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the De- fence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out all roles assigned by Government. In this context, the full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment are available for deployment in response to any emergencies that may arise.

In relation to the Air Corps, it can provide airborne and other supports to the principal response agencies and my Department has put in place memorandums of understanding and service level agreements with other government departments and agencies both to ensure the maintenance of essential services and to capture the wide ranging supports that the Defence Forces can provide in emergency situations. It is important to note in exceptional circumstances, including outside of normal hours, the Air Corps can recall personnel, and deploy.

The acquisition of new equipment and equipment upgrades for the Defence Forces remains a clear focus for me, and the White Paper on Defence published in 2015 recognises that there 643 Questions - Written Answers are several new and enhanced platforms to be procured. Future equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are being considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper as part of the capability development and equipment planning processes.

In the case of the Air Corps, equipment priorities set out in the White Paper recognise the requirement for new aircraft to be procured, including the replacement of the Cessna fleet with three larger aircraft suitably equipped for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance tasks, and replacement of the two Casa maritime patrol aircraft. A request for tender for fixed wing utility aircraft to replace the Cessna fleet was issued in early May, tenders have been received and the evaluation process has commenced.

On the issue of personnel up to 12 Air Corps Pilot Officer cadets are due to be inducted in the third quarter of 2017 and there are currently 3 Cadet Classes, with 26 personnel at various stages of their Pilot Officer ‘Wings Course’. Training is on-going with three Air Corps Ap- prentice Aircraft Technician classes comprising 36 apprentices plus 12 personnel in Air Traffic Services Training.

I am satisfied that the resources are available to the Defence Forces, to enable the fulfilment of all roles assigned by Government, including in emergency situations.

11/07/2017WREEE00800Emergency Planning

11/07/2017WREEE00900843. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the Air Corps, Army and Naval Service, each in their turn, have the ability to rapidly respond in the event of an emergency including a natural disaster or terrorist attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32978/17]

11/07/2017WREEE01000844. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which he has satisfied himself that the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps can rapidly respond to an emergency on or off shore in the event of such requirements; the length of time taken to respond in such incidences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32979/17]

11/07/2017WREEE01100845. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the degree to which the military authorities can respond to assist the gardaí in the event of emergency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32980/17]

11/07/2017WREEE01200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Questions Nos. 843 to 845, inclusive, together.

In accordance with the framework for major emergency management, primary responsibility for responding to emergencies caused by severe weather events, such as storms and flooding, rests with the three designated principal response agencies, namely, the relevant Local Au- thority, An Garda Síochána, and the Health Service Executive. The Defence Forces provide the fullest possible assistance to the appropriate lead Department in the event of a natural disaster or emergency situation in its aid to the civil authority role.

At National level, representation on the Government task force on emergency planning, by both the Department of Defence and the Defence Forces, ensures the fullest coordination and cooperation in the event of an emergency and that the command structure within the Defence Forces is compatible with the requirements in this area.

Major emergency plans have been developed by local and regional authorities and these plans identify the procedures for requesting assistance from the Defence Forces.

644 11 July 2017 The Defence Forces retain a wide range of specialist skills which can be deployed in such circumstances, including for a natural disaster or terrorist incidents. The operations directorate in Defence Forces Headquarters manages the necessary cross-service coordination in responding to both emergency and security issues. These arrangements have proved effective in all emergencies encountered to date.

Primary responsibility for the internal security of the State rests with the Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána. Among the roles assigned to the Defence Forces in the White Paper on Defence is the provision of Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) which, in practice, means to provide assistance and support to An Garda Síochána when requested to do so.

There is ongoing and close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters, including ATCP deployments and a wide variety of military training activities are specifically designed to counter or respond to possible security emergencies. Regular coordination and liaison meetings also take place between the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.

In relation to the Naval Service, all vessels are multi-tasked in the sense that, in addition to their fishery protection role, they also undertake general surveillance, security, pollution monitoring, and Search and Rescue in support to the Irish Coast Guard, amongst other duties while on patrol. These activities assist in detecting and preventing emergency situations throughout Ireland’s maritime jurisdiction.

The role of the Air Corps includes the provision of an emergency inter-hospital Air Ambu- lance service in support of the HSE. It is also supporting the HSE in an emergency aeromedical support service operating primarily in the West of Ireland. The Air Corps also has a maritime surveillance function undertaken by its maritime patrol aircraft and both it and the Naval Ser- vice provide support to the Irish Coast Guard in maritime search and rescue operations.

The full spectrum of Defence Forces personnel and equipment are available for deployment in response to any security and other emergencies that may arise. Within the Defence Forces, both the Ordnance Corps and the Army Ranger Wing specialise in providing an immediate response to emergency incidents that might require their highly specialised capabilities. The role of the Defence Forces in these situations is dependent on the nature of the incident and the type of assistance requested.

I can confirm that the Defence Forces keep their operational plans and response capabilities for dealing with a wide range of threats under constant review. It is my priority as Minister with responsibility for Defence to ensure that the operational capacity of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible to enable the Defence Forces to carry out their roles both at home and overseas.

11/07/2017WREEE01500Defence Forces Personnel

11/07/2017WREEE01600846. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of promotional posts vacant in the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32981/17]

11/07/2017WREEE01700Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Government is committed to maintaining a strength level of 9,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force. This comprises 7,520 Army, 886 Air Corps and 1,094 Naval Service personnel, as stated in the 2015 White Paper on Defence. I am advised by the Military Authorities that the strength of the Permanent Defence Force, as at 31 May 2017 was 9,116 personnel, comprising 7,321 645 Questions - Written Answers Army, 706 Air Corps and 1,089 Naval Service, whole time equivalent.

The following table outlines the promotional posts vacant within the Permanent Defence Force, by Army, Air Corps and Naval Service as at 31 May 2017.

The manpower requirement of the Defence Forces is monitored on an ongoing basis in accordance with the operational requirements of each of the three services.

In this regard, promotions are ongoing within the officer ranks in order to fill rank vacancies.

A new NCO promotion competition, to fill vacancies to the ranks of sergeants and above, is currently underway. Promotions from the order of merit lists from this competition will commence in the third quarter of 2017.

It is my intention that promotions will continue to be carried out within the resource envelope allocated to Defence.

PDF vacancies as at 31 May 2017

Lt Col Comdt Cap- SM BQMS CS CQMS Sgt Cpl tain Army 9 - 40 3 4 26 19 145 87 Air 3 2 13 1 - 4 3 26 31 Corps Navy - - 28 - 1 9 2 58 49 Total 12 2 81 4 5 39 24 229 167 Note : Equivalent Naval Service Ranks Lieutenant Colonel/Commander; Commandant/ Lieutenant Commander; Captain/Lieutenant (NS); Sergeant Major/Warrant Officer; Battalion Quartermaster Sergeant/Senior Chief Petty Officer; Company Quartermaster Sergeant/Senior Petty Officer; Company Sergeant/Chief Petty Officer; Sergeant/Petty Officer; Corporal/Lead- ing Seaman.

11/07/2017WREEE01800Defence Forces Equipment

11/07/2017WREEE01900847. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which modern sophisticated technology is available to the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps with particular reference to radar and GPS facilities and-or other tracking devices; the availability of such technology in all vehicles, vessels and aircraft; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32982/17]

11/07/2017WREEE02000850. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the degree to which vehicle, aircraft and seagoing vessels are continuously upgraded and updated in line with modern requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32985/17]

11/07/2017WREEE02100851. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which vehicles, aircraft and seagoing vessels continue to be replaced or renewed as required in order to ensure absolute reliability at all times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32986/17]

11/07/2017WREEE02200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I propose to take Question No’s 847, 850 and 851 together.

My priority as Minister with Responsibility for Defence is to ensure that the operational

646 11 July 2017 capability of the Defence Forces is maintained to the greatest extent possible so as to enable the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service to carry out their roles as assigned by Government. The acquisition of new equipment and equipment upgrades for the Defence Forces remains a clear focus for me, and the White Paper on Defence recognises that there are several new and or enhanced platforms to be procured. Future equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service are being considered in the context of the lifetime of the White Paper on Defence as part of the capability development and equipment planning priorities planning process.

In this regard, Budget 2017 secured a capital spending allocation of €74 million, representing an increase of €7 million on the 2017 Defence allocation contained in the 2016-21 capital investment programme. This investment will aim to ensure that the Defence Forces have the equipment and infrastructure to deliver on all their roles as set out in the White Paper.

The Army will continue to retain all-arms conventional military capabilities, and the principal aim over the period of the White Paper will be to replace and upgrade, as required, existing capabilities in order to retain a flexible response for a wide range of operational requirements both at home and overseas. There is focus on the essential force protection provided by armoured vehicles, and in this regard a maintenance and upgrade programme has commenced for the current fleet of 80 armoured personnel carriers which will seek to ensure viability of the fleet out to 2030. A small number of armoured logistical and utility vehicles are also being procured for force protection. Modern secure communications are essential for overseas missions and in that regard Defence Force personnel are suitably equipped with required communications and global positioning systems equipment.

The White Paper provides that the Air Corps will see the Cessna fleet replaced with three larger aircraft suitably equipped for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance tasks. The tender competition for the procurement of the three new aircraft is underway.

The two CASA 235s maritime patrol aircraft are due for replacement in 2019. The CASAs will be replaced with consideration of their replacement with larger more capable aircraft to enhance maritime surveillance and to provide a greater degree of utility for transport and cargo carrying tasks.

With regard to training aircraft, a decision was made in 2016 to replace a PC-9M aircraft which was written off following a fatal crash in 2009. The replacement PC-9M aircraft from Pilatus Aircraft in Switzerland arrived in Casement Aerodrome last week, bringing the fleet up to eight. This acquisition will assist in a required increase in pilot training in the Air Corps.

As stated in the White Paper, should additional funding beyond that required to maintain existing Air Corps’ capabilities become available, the development of a radar surveillance capability is a priority for the Air Corps. Funding for this is not provided in the current resource envelope and any future decisions in this regard will be in the context of the ongoing security environment and any associated developments.

The current Naval Service Ship replacement programme has already seen the replacement of three Naval Service vessels. The White Paper underpins the ongoing replacement of the Naval Service fleet. An agreement was reached in June 2016 for the provision of an additional ship for the Naval Service to be built to the same specifications as the three newest vessels. This ship is scheduled for delivery next year. Future Naval Service capabilities are being planned as part of the White Paper project planning process which will determine the Defence Organisa- tion’s maritime capability requirements. The White Paper also recognises the requirement to maintain and upgrade vessels having regard to emerging operational requirements and changes in technology, including communications equipment and technology and this is an ongoing process. 647 Questions - Written Answers I am satisfied that the current provisions, together with the courses of action in the White Paper, will continue to ensure that the Defence Forces is suitably equipped, in line with international best practice, to fulfil all roles assigned by Government.

Question No. 848 answered with Question No. 66.

11/07/2017WREEE02300Defence Forces Training

11/07/2017WREEE02400849. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which annual training is available to and has been availed of by all members of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps in line with best practice internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32984/17]

11/07/2017WREEE02500Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The primary function of training and education in the Defence Forces is to develop and maintain the capabilities necessary to enable it to fulfil the roles laid down by Government.

The Defence Forces conduct training and education under four broad categories namely; leadership, skills, career and collective training. Leadership training is the medium through which the Defence Forces ensure that personnel are prepared for exercising command authority across the full range of military functions both at home and overseas in international operations. Skills training is the medium through which the Defence Forces ensure that its personnel have the requisite individual, specialist, and crew skills. Career training and education provides the organisation with the necessary pool of leaders and commanders at all levels. Collective Training allows military personnel to use their individual, crew, specialist and career training together, to develop integrated and coherent combat forces.

I am advised that the Defence Forces seek to constantly benchmark training across all three arms against best military and academic practice. Military best practice is ensured by implementing a policy of standardisation that is in line with EU and NATO/Partnership for Peace partners. Academic best practice is ensured by benchmarking courses through accreditation under the National Framework of Qualifications which is validated by Quality and Qualifica- tions Ireland.

The Defence Forces deliver military programmes and modules meeting national and international standards. The Defence Forces also engage with external educational institutions in order to facilitate organisational learning. This engagement with national and international educational institutions, military and civilian, aims to ensure that the Defence Forces retain currency with regards to best international practice and employ all relevant modern training methods.

I am committed to ensuring that the personnel of the Defence Forces continue to be trained to best international standards.

Questions Nos. 850 and 851 answered with Question No. 847.

11/07/2017WREEE02800Army Barracks Closures

11/07/2017WREEE02900852. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which all decommissioned military barracks have been disposed of or are being utilised for whatever purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32987/17]

648 11 July 2017

11/07/2017WREEE03000Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): My Department has been engaged in an ongoing programme of barrack consolidation since 1998. This programme has brought to 14 the number of barracks closed to date.

The total receipts from disposal of installations and lands from 1998 to date amount to approximately €1 20 million.

To date the sale has been completed of the following barracks - Clancy (Dublin), Cas- tleblaney, Ballincollig, Fermoy, Naas, Monaghan, Cavan, Rockhill (Letterkenny), Magee (Kildare), Lifford, Clonmel and Longford.

In relation to Castlebar barracks, agreement has been reached for its sale to Mayo County Council and it is expected that this will be fully completed shortly.

Columb Barracks in Mullingar remains the property of the Department of Defence and is currently used by an Garda Síochána and the Customs Service for training purposes. A large part of the barracks is also in use by Westmeath GAA Board as a training centre. Various local community groups also use the premises. As the barracks is no longer required for military purposes the current financial and administrative burden resulting from its retention cannot be sustained. I have instructed my officials to continue to proceed with its disposal by public auction in the coming months.

A number of other properties have also been identified as surplus to military requirements over recent years. These include married quarters, Reserve Defence Force (RDF) premises and training lands. A large number of these have already been disposed of whilst others are in the process of being prepared for disposal.

11/07/2017WREEE03100Defence Forces Personnel Data

11/07/2017WREEE03200853. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of women currently serving in the Defence Forces; the numbers who have been promoted over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32988/17]

11/07/2017WREEE03300Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The current strength, as of 31 May 2017, the latest date for which figures are available, of females in the Defence Forces is 568 (Whole Time Equivalents). This represents 6.2% of the total strength of the Defence Forces. Of these, a total of 131 are commissioned officers.

I am advised that in the past five years, there has been 247 instances of promotion amongst female members of the Defence Forces. This figure is inclusive of 148 promotions amongst female Commissioned Officers and 99 promotions amongst female enlisted personnel since 2012.

11/07/2017WREEE03400Naval Service Operations

11/07/2017WREEE03500854. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which Naval personnel here have been involved in rescue missions in the Mediterranean over the past four years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32989/17]

11/07/2017WREEE03600Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): Following a Government decision on 12 May 2015, the Irish Naval Vessel, LE Eithne, was deployed to the Mediterranean on 16 May, 2015, to assist the Italian Authorities with the migrant crisis. Two further vessels were deployed, LE. Niamh and LE Samuel Beckett, and the deployment was 649 Questions - Written Answers completed on 29 November 2015. During the period May to November 2015, a total of 8,592 persons were rescued in the Mediterranean by Irish Naval Vessels.

On 6 April 2016, the Government approved the return of an Irish Naval vessel to undertake humanitarian search and rescue tasks in the Mediterranean. In total, three Irish Naval vessels were deployed during the period May to December 2016, LE Róisín, LE James Joyce and LE Samuel Beckett and a total of 7,029 people were rescued by these Naval Vessels in 2016.

On 11 April 2017, the Government once again approved the return of an Irish Naval vessel to the Mediterranean to undertake humanitarian search and rescue tasks as part of a bilateral arrangement with the Italian authorities. LE Eithne commenced patrolling on 31 May 2017 and, to date, has rescued a total of 1,187 people and provided assistance to a further 347 people.

Naval personnel were not involved in rescue operations in the Mediterranean in 2014.

11/07/2017WREEE03700Search and Rescue Service Provision

11/07/2017WREEE03800855. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the extent to which the Air Corps and the Naval Service continue to co-operate in air and sea rescue missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32990/17]

11/07/2017WREEE03900Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): The Deputy will be aware that the Defence Organisation provides a broad range of services in accordance with its primary security role while it also undertakes a diverse range of non-security-related tasks.

With reference to search and rescue, since 2004 the Irish Coast Guard has overall responsibility for the provision of Search and Rescue services within the Irish search and rescue region. Both the Naval Service and the Air Corps provide support to the Irish Coast Guard in maritime search and rescue operations on an “as available” basis and a Service Level Agreement is in place setting out their roles and responsibilities in this regard.

The Defence Organisation will continue to provide support, as available, to the Irish Coast Guard in respect of Coast Guard search and rescue operations.

11/07/2017WREEE04000Defence Forces Medicinal Products

11/07/2017WREEE04100856. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of De- fence Forces personnel to whom Malarone was issued between 2 February 2006 and 16 July 2013. [32993/17]

11/07/2017WREEE04200Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): I have been advised by the military authorities that to collate the figures requested by the Deputy would require a medical officer or officers to examine the medical files of all Defence Force personnel that travelled to malaria prone areas within the period of time specified.

Due to the scope of the request and the demands it would place on already limited resources, I regret that it is not possible to provide the information requested by the Deputy.

11/07/2017WRFFF00100Emergency Planning

11/07/2017WRFFF00300857. Deputy James Browne asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the steps he 650 11 July 2017 has taken as chair of the government’s task force for emergency planning to offset the threat of terrorism; the number of times the task force has met since December 2016; the number of occasions the Task Force has discussed the threat of terrorism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32500/17]

11/07/2017WRFFF00400Minister of State at the Department of Defence (Deputy Paul Kehoe): Primary responsibility for the internal security of the State rests with the Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána.

As Chair of the Government task force on emergency planning, I am briefed at every meeting of the Government task force on the current security threat assessments, including those from potential domestic and international terrorism. The task force meets approximately every two months and has met on three occasions since 1 December 2016 and will meet again on 19 July 2017. As Chair, I may also convene a task force meeting at very short notice, if required.

However, in the event of an actual emergency incident occurring requiring a national-level response, the lead Department responsible would normally convene and Chair a national emergency co-ordination group meeting that would specifically lead the national-level responses to such an incident. In the case of a terrorist incident in Ireland that would require a national-level response, the Department of Justice and Equality would take the lead role in convening and chairing a national emergency co-ordination group to lead such a response and would be closely supported by An Garda Síochána and other Departments and Agencies.

From the regular briefings that I receive in my capacity as Minister with responsibility for Defence and as chair of the task force, I can inform the House that all the necessary steps required to offset these threats are being addressed, particularly by those with the lead responsibilities. It is not generally the practise, nor would it be prudent, to disclose any of the planning and preparations in place to offset these threats.

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653 Questions - Written Answers

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