Local Authority Times Local Authority Times Vol. 19 No 3 & 4 2015 Bi-Annual Edition ISSN No. 0791-8267

Housing Matters Contents

1. Housing matters Adapted from Department of Environment, Community and 4. New Director General at IPA Local Government; Private Residential Tenancies Board and the 14. Connecting the Wild Atlantic Way Conference Central Statistics Office. 2015 16. Donegal Local Enterprise Office joins Enterprise Private Residential Tenancies was €901 – up from €830 in Q3, 2014. Europe Network The rent for apartments nationally was 18. New Index of Social Progress Board (PRTB) Rent index 20. COP21 in Paris €945 (compared to €866 a year earlier), 21. Eurochambres Economic Latest data from the Private Residential and for a house it was €873 (€810 a year Survey 2016 Tenancies Board (PRTB) quarterly rent earlier). In Dublin, the rent in Q3, 2015, index on December 9th, 2015 shows was €1,408 for a house and €1,265 for News items that “monthly rents for private sector an apartment. A year earlier, Q3, 2014, Pages 22-38 accommodation across the country were the rent for a house was €1,288, and for an apartment it was €1,169. This Spaceial Northwest project wins 8.6% higher at the end of September this prestigious Chambers Ireland year compared with the same period represents a monthly increase in Dublin Award rent of €120 for a house and €96 for an last year. Nationally, rents for houses Water Safety Award for Primary were 7.7% higher, while apartment rents apartment over the course of the 12 Schools in County Cork month period. Outside Dublin, the were 9% higher than in Q3 of 2014.” Clare County Council becomes The figures also highlight that “annual rent in Q3, 2015, was €707, with houses first local authority to excel in growth in the Dublin market was up averaging €712 and apartments €698. new Excellence through People standard by 8.7% in the year to September 2015. A year earlier, these figures stood at Dublin house rents were up by 9.3% in €652, €664 and €635 respectively. This Tourism Ireland 2016 marketing plans launched the year and Dublin apartment rents represents a monthly increase in rent were up 8.3%. Annual growth in rents outside of Dublin of €48 for a house and CSO Overseas Travel statistics show €63 for an apartment in the 12 month increase of 12.8% in visits for the market outside Dublin was 8.5% North East/North West Action Plan when compared to the third quarter of period.” The Index highlights that: Designated Urban Centres Grants 2014. Again the performance differed by scheme launched to 2020 property type. Monthly rent for houses • “Looking at the private rental market Food Wise 2025 outside Dublin increased by 7.2%, while on a quarter by quarter basis, and 30million investment package for apartments outside Dublin experienced comparing the third quarter of 2015 Rural Ireland an increase of 9.8%.” with the second quarter of this year, EPA Drinking water report 2014 the rate of rental increase rose in most This data derives from the latest Private sectors, but the rate of growth was 180million euro from EU Programme for Research and Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) actually stronger outside Dublin. At Innovation under ‘Horizon 2020’ Quarterly Rent Index which is compiled a national level, monthly rent levels 2015 Local Agenda 21 by the Economic and Social Research rose 4.1% in Q3, 2015, compared to Institute (ESRI) for the PRTB. “It is Q2. Environment Partnership Fund the most accurate and authoritative Rural Economic Development rent report of its kind on the private • Looking at trends in more detail, Zone Pilot projects accommodation sector in Ireland as monthly rents for houses were up by Local Property Tax allocations it is based on 28,240 new tenancies 4.3% quarter on quarter, while rents Top Tourism towns named which commenced in July/August/ for apartments were 3.7% higher September 2015 and on the actual rents than in Q2, 2015. Rents in Dublin being paid, according to the PRTB’s grew by 2.6% when compared with records, as distinct from the asking or Q2, 2015; rents for houses in Dublin advertised rent. In monetary terms, the increased by 3.8%, while apartment rent for private sector accommodation rents rose by 2.1% quarter on quarter. across the whole country in Q3, 2015, For properties outside Dublin, rents Printed on ..continued on page 5 Recycled Paper

1 To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the IPA’s Administration Yearbook & Diary it has been rebranded as Ireland - A Directory 2016.

For the past 50 years this has been Ireland’s most widely used reference book, and the new look edition, along with a free beautifully produced book highlighting major events in public life over the past 50 years, will be available from the IPA at the beginning of December 2015.

Ireland - A Directory 2016 is an business, public sector or the media, inclusive and extensive directory. It who need to know and keep abreast of is widely regarded as Ireland’s most what is happening in our economic and comprehensive database with details political system and who to contact. In a in the 2016 edition on approximately time of availability of high tech databases 9,000 organisations, covering both the Ireland - A Directory 2016 is a must-have private sector and the public sector. Its in many business circles, because it beings information ranges over a wide number everything you need together in one of areas including local authorities, place. government departments, voluntary agencies, professional organisations, Ireland - A Directory also includes merchant banks, advertising agencies, statistics on various topics including third level institutions, independent radio Ireland’s population, labour, trade, public stations, religious denominations and EU finances, social welfare, justice, health institutions. and education. And there are wide ranging sections giving general information on Ireland - A Directory is a superb point Ireland and an international information of reference for anyone involved in section.

The Directory contains the name, contact details (telephone and fax numbers, email and website addresses), organisation description and names of key personnel (from board to middle management level) of each listed organisation. Legislature, Executive and Judiciary Conference Venues Diplomatic Representation Management Consultants Civil Service Recruitment Consultants North/South Institutions Communications Defence Forces Media Garda Síochána Religion Local Government and Administration Health Services Trade and Professional Organisations State Sponsored Bodies Social, Cultural and Political Organisations Financial Institutions Northern Ireland Higher Education European Union Major Companies and Co-operatives International Organisations

2 The Yearbook contains a wealth of valuable statistical information and research material designed for the casual and professional user. Population Education National accounts Politics Monetary Taxation Industry Mileage Labour International comparisons Trade Postal charges Health Salaries of public representatives and officials Public finance Forms of address Social Welfare General index with telephone numbers The Yearbook is designed in a week-to-view flexible and non-time-restrained format with lined entries for each day. Daily events listing from the world of business, conferences, culture and sport. Major trade fairs in Ireland and abroad Notable anniversaries Public holidays in the EU, Norway, Switzerland, Six-year calendar Japan and the USA Telephone direct dialling codes Annual conferences International time differences Academic terms Forward appointments planner 2016 Cultural and sporting events Religious feast days High water tides The Ideal Corporate Gift Give Ireland - A Directory to your special clients and let it work for them - and for you - all through 2016.

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3 NEW DIRECTOR GENERAL OF IPA TOOK UP POST IN OCTOBER

Dr Marian O’Sullivan took up the post of Director General of the Institute of Public Administration on October 1st. She replaces Dr Brian Cawley who led the organisation over the last 6 years.

Dr O’Sullivan, who grew up in the South Tipperary Village of Ardfinnan, has extensive knowledge of higher education, management and leadership in Ireland and abroad. She was educated in the Convent of Mercy Cahir and went onto complete a BSc (Hons) and PhD in microbiology in UCC. She has carried out research for both the sugarbeet and dairy industry in Ireland and abroad. She held lecturing and research posts in UCD, TCD and Teagasc. In 1997 she joined the NCEA the predecessor to QQI (Quality and Qualifications Ireland). In 2001 she joined the Institute of Technology Sector. She has held two senior management posts, Registrar and also Head of Development and Research, in the Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT) in Dun Laoghaire. In 2008 Dr O’Sullivan completed a MSc in Executive Leadership at the University of Ulster.

Dr O’Sullivan is delighted to take up the post of Director General of the IPA, which is a recognised college of UCD and is the leader in the provision of education and training for the wider public sector. She is looking forward to working with the staff and Board of the IPA which is chaired by Niamh O’Donoghue Sectary General of the Department of Social Protection. Dr O’Sullivan and her team are committed to continuing and indeed developing the support the IPA provides to local authorities in their ongoing reform efforts.

4 ..continued from page 1 were up by 5.2% in Q3 compared and tenant disputes. According to the the housing market means we have to Q2 of this year. Rents for houses 2011 Census, nearly 1 in 5 households much more to do. The challenges outside Dublin recorded a quarterly in the country were renting their of homelessness are complex and increase of 4.3%, and apartment accommodation in the private sector. require multiple solutions and this rents outside Dublin increased by Government continues to apply all the 5.8% in Q3. All landlords are legally obliged to resources of the State to meet the various register tenancies with the PRTB and the challenges. Today we are looking at • The Rent Index shows that, number of new registrations with the where we are at the moment as the nationally, rents peaked in Q4, PRTB in Q3, 2015, was 28,240. winter approaches.” Minister Coffey 2007, before declining by 25.7% noted that “the challenges presented by to their trough in Q1, 2012. By The PRTB Index is of assistance for homelessness never stop and it is timely Q3, 2015 rents nationally were 11 a range of Government purposes, that we examine where we are and on per cent lower than their peak. including housing policy generally, and an ongoing basis. The work of the NGO While the peak-to-trough in the informing the Department of Social sector continues 24/7 and I would like Dublin market was similar to that Protection’s Rent Supplement scheme. It to commend them for their work in experienced nationally, the strength is also an important reference document very difficult circumstances.“ At the of the recovery in Dublin means in landlord/tenant disputes on rent. It meeting officials from the Department, that now rents are just 2.3% lower was developed in consultation and co- the DRHE’s Cathal Morgan, Kieran than their highest point. In contrast, operation with landlord representative Butler, Midlands Region & Threshold’s, the market outside Dublin has groups such as the Irish Property Bob Jordan made presentations to the experienced more subdued growth Owners Association, irishlandlord.com, assembled audience. and so rental levels remain 15.5% off the Institute of Professional Auctioneers their peak levels.” and Valuers, the Society of Chartered Both Ministers highlighted some of the Surveyors of Ireland, and tenant positives that have already occurred in representative groups such as Threshold recent months: Commenting on the rental increases and USI (Union of Students in Ireland). the Director of the PRTB, Anne • 500 modular housing units to be Marie Caulfield, noted that “it is very Homeless Forum delivered in the Dublin region important that both Landlords and On November 16th, 2015, the Minister in 2016 to provide temporary Tenants are aware of the new Tenancy for the Environment, Community and accommodation for families who legislation which has just been passed. It Local Government, Alan Kelly TD, are currently in commercial hotels provides that Rent may only be increased and Minister of State, Paudie Coffey once in a 24 month period (previously TD , with Special Responsibility for • 739 households exited from 12 months). It also provides that 90 days Housing, Planning and Coordination homeless accommodation into advance notice must be given prior to of the Construction 2020 Strategy verified tenancy arrangements any increase (previously 28 days). As held a homeless forum to discuss (Data: January to September 2015) previously, rents may not be more than winter preparations for the homeless. the market rate. “The PRTB Rent Index The meeting was attended by various • Nationwide in excess of 4,700 provides information on average rents representatives from the non- rent supplement households for 5 property types in 446 locations governmental organisations (NGO) have benefitted from the tenancy country-wide. The PRTB website www. sector, Dublin Region Homeless sustainment protocol. In Dublin prtb.ie (click on “rent index”) also Executive (DRHE), & The Reverend alone 1,346 tenancies have contains an Average Rent Dataset which Asa Bjork from the Church of Ireland been prevented from becoming enables people to check the average rent and a representative on behalf of the homelessness as a result of the being paid for five different categories of Archbishop of Dublin, Diarmuid Martin. Tenancy Protection Service provided dwelling types throughout the country, The main purpose of the meeting was by Threshold on behalf of the four in both urban and rural areas.” to examine the winter preparations for Dublin local authorities (Data: homeless persons/families and to look June 2014 (initiation of service) to The Private Residential Tenancies Board back at the position, since the Homeless September 2015) (PRTB) was established in 2004 to Forum was convened by both Ministers operate a national tenancy registration in December of last year. • 69 tenancies (Data: 13/11/2015) system and to resolve disputes between through the implementation of landlords and tenants. It also provides Minister Kelly stated that “in December the Homeless Housing Assistance policy advice to the Government on last year, I and Minister Coffey convened Payment Pilot (85 Adults and 95 the private rented sector, and its dispute the Homeless Forum. Many actions have Children) resolution service replaces the courts been implemented and much has been • 65 family units in place in Tallaght in relation to the majority of landlord achieved but the ongoing situation in Cross with onsite support provided

5 via Focus Ireland and housing Allocation of Local Authority Tenancies management services provided by The Ministerial Direction, which requires key local authorities to prioritise Tuath AHB. homeless, and other vulnerable, households in the allocation of tenancies under • Consistent efforts through the local their control, was extended in August and will apply until 31 January 2016. The authority leasing initiative to source initial Direction came into force in January 2015. Under this Direction the Dublin private rented accommodation and Region authorities must allocate at least 50% of tenancies to homeless, and other efforts through the dedicated local vulnerable, households while the authorities in counties Cork, Galway, Limerick authority Place Finders Service. and Waterford have been directed to allocate 30%, where such households are • The Children and Families Homeless qualified for social housing support on or before 1 June 2015. Action Team (state funded via Focus Ireland) has been given approval to Details available to end-June show that in Dublin 53.5% of allocations (534 out of a raise its staff capacity to 25 project total of 997 allocations) were to homeless and other vulnerable households, while workers, in order to respond to the in the non-Dublin authorities 35.7% of allocations were to homeless and other increasing support needs of families. vulnerable households (239 out of a total of 670 allocations). Allocation details • Arrangements are being put in place relating to the operation of the current Direction are being collated and will be whereby Tusla and the HSE (Public reported to the next meeting of the Cabinet Committee. Health Nurses, etc) will ensure the co-ordination of their existing Homelessness Budget services on an inreach basis into the family provision. The Homelessness Budget for 2016 will be €70 million, an increase of 32% on the 2015 allocation of €53 million. The on-going increases in the scale of the • 50% increase in the HAP limits for homelessness issue are being driven by a shortage of housing supply and pressures homeless families in Dublin. in the private rented market. The long-term solution to homelessness is to increase • The Ministerial direction on the supply of homes that can be utilised for social housing purposes. allocations for homeless families continues to provide homes for The Government’s Social Housing Strategy envisages the construction of 35,000 homeless/vulnerable families new social housing units, at a cost of €3.8 billion, and the utilisation of up to 75,000 private sector units to meet housing needs through local authority housing Additional funding to tackle supports schemes. However, it is likely to be a number of years before the social housing need housing new-builds are delivered at a significant scale, furthermore, at this time, In excess of €1.7 billion being invested it is proving difficult for the various social housing supports schemes (and rent in Social Housing 2015-2016; €135 supplement) to compete for private rented units. Consequently housing authorities million to be invested Community will continue to have an increasing reliance on emergency accommodation Programmes Prior to the homeless solutions (including commercial hotels) for the increasing number of households forum convening, on October, 13th, that will continue to present as homeless. The enhanced 2016 budget will help 2015, the Minister for Environment, meet these costs as well as funding more suitable alternatives to inappropriate Community and Local Government, and precarious commercial hotel accommodation; until overall supply increases, Mr. Alan Kelly and Ministers, Paudie current spending on homeless services must increase to meet demand. Coffey & Ann Phelan welcomed the significant additional funding that will be available to tackle housing Additional funding will also be required to meet the increased levels of expenditure needs in 2016. Speaking after Budget incurred by housing authorities in relation to emergency accommodation in 2015. 2016 was announced, Minister Minister Kelly has publically confirmed that he will positively review additional Kelly stated “I welcome the fact that funding requirements arisen. The Department has formally requested details from investment in housing infrastructure housing authorities in this regard. has again been given priority in this Budget and that over 17,000 housing units will be delivered in 2016. Over 50% (€811m) of my Department’s 2016 The Department of Environment, Community and Local budget will go directly to support a Government’s Vote for 2016 is some €1.495 billion - €539m Capital range of housing programmes, and and €956m Current. the continued delivery of the Social Housing Strategy 2020. In addition This compares to a total of €1.328 billion in 2015 - an increase of some €112m funding will be provided €167m or nearly 12% on 2015 and an increase of 83% on 2014. directly by Local Authorities to meet housing needs.”

6 The housing capital spend will come to be €70m – a 55% increase since 2014. Speaking about the new LEADER €432m in 2016, up from €376m million The availability and supply of secure, programme 2014-2020, which will this year; providing €56m extra capital affordable and adequate housing assist projects that improve quality spending. This will see the continued is essential in ensuring sustainable of life and promote growth and tenancies and ending long-term acceleration of local authority direct diversification of the rural economy, homelessness. I am also increasing the build and acquisition of properties. Minister Kelly outlined that “LEADER rent limits for the Homeless HAP Pilot in order to allow significant numbers of is addressing many of the challenges The number of housing units to be homeless families in Dublin to move out facing rural communities, including delivered through this mechanism will of hotel and emergency accommodation through increasing economic activity be over 1,000 which compares to 285 and find homes.” and generating employment. It is a key units as recently as 2014. Approved multi-annual programme which will Housing Bodies also continue to play The Minister confirmed that additional continue to be supported in 2016 with a vital role in meeting housing need funding is also being provided under the provision of €40m.” and combined with local authorities’ the Pyrite Remediation scheme with activities the total number of units to a total of €19m being made available The Minister also welcomed the under the scheme in 2016. Additional be provided in 2016 will be over 1,500 – provision of funding for two new funding is also being made available almost 2.5 times the 2014 output. schemes in his Department - €30m in to support increased activity under funding over 6 years under the new the Mortgage to Rent Scheme, giving The housing capital programme will Village Renewal Scheme, with €5m to a provision of €17 million in 2016 to be provided in 2016. He also outlined also allow for some 1,500 additional address the mortgage arrears challenge. provision of €5m for a new scheme that vacant housing units to be brought back will assist homeowners in addressing into productive use. Mr. Paudie Coffey, Significant resources are also being made the issue of lead in their drinking water. Minister of State at the Department available through the Department’s Funding for libraries has also been Vote to support the development of of the Environment with Special increased by 83% for 2016. Responsibility for Housing, Planning strong and vibrant local communities. €135m will be invested in Community and Coordination of the Construction Given the importance of the haulage programmes in 2016, which includes 2020 Strategy, stated that “this year industry to our export led growth and to funding under the Social Inclusion and and next year more than €800 million ensure that Ireland remains competitive, Community Activation Programme will be spent on building, buying & (SICAP) and LEADER programme. In the rates of commercial motor tax on refurbishing homes for people on the 2016, some 40,000 people will receive larger goods vehicles are being reduced. housing waiting lists. direct one-to-one labour market training and supports through the Other areas of Department spend in 2016 include Water Services (€151m); This is real investment that will make SICAP. Ms. Ann Phelan, Minister for Environment and Waste Management a difference to people’s lives. Current Rural Economic Development stated (€44m) and Fire Services capital spending on housing will grow by that “SICAP is well placed to create investment (€8.2m). €69m to €379m which will be used opportunities and provide supports to finance increased local authority to ease the transition into meaningful housing services, including through the employment for the harder to reach in Key Numbers: Rental Accommodation Scheme, the the most disadvantaged areas in society. Social Housing Current Expenditure €46 million will be invested in 2016 to • DECLG vote is now €1.495 billion, increase access to formal and informal Programme and the Housing Assistance up from €1.328m – increase of €167m educational activities and resources and Payment (HAP In total, over 7,100 – 12.5% Housing Spend increases to increase people’s work readiness and by 18% from €686m to €811m. additional housing units will be employment prospects.” delivered from a range of measures • Additional €56 million for capital which, combined with a target of 10,000 Funding will continue to be made programmes and €69 million for transfers to the Housing Assistance available to support a range of initiatives increase in current spending. Total Payment, will deliver a total of over in the community and voluntary sector, increase of €125m. In addition 17,100 housing units in 2016. including support to strengthen and €112m will be provided directly by foster volunteerism and philanthropy local authorities. The Minister also stressed his as well as increased funding for Seniors determination to tackle homelessness. Alert of 10%, which supports the • 7,100 housing units to be “I am allocating a further €17 million provision of monitored alarms to enable delivered in 2016 through current for the specific purpose of addressing older persons, of limited means, to and capital spending including homelessness. The total amount continue to live securely in their homes the refurbishment of 1,600 vacant available for this purpose in 2016 will with confidence. units.

7 • 3,100 Local Authority direct build, SUMMARY OF KEY ISSUES acquisition and refurbishments in 2016. CURRENT

• Homelessness services spend Leasing: Increased funding of €20m will allow local authorities to bring increases by 32% to €70m. approximately 3,000 new leased units into operation in 2016. • €17m (increase of €7m) for the Mortgage to Rent scheme to allow people stay in their homes. Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS): Funding of €135 million under the RAS will allow for 1,000 new RAS transfers in 2015. • Approximately 3,000 additional new housing units will be leased in Housing Assistance Payment: Funding is being increased by €24.5 million 2015. to €47.7million in 2016 in line with the expansion of the scheme which will • Community & Rural Development assist an additional 10,000 families to secure suitable accommodation. Provision will be €135 million for 2016. Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme: The 2016 allocation will be used to • Some 40,000 people who are make loan repayments in respect of projects already delivered or underway. distanced from the labour market will receive direct one-to-one Traveller Accommodation and Support: €4.3m million funding will labour market training and supports provide for Traveller Accommodation and Support Services. through the Social Inclusion and Homeless: The increase in funding of €17 million will ensure that the increased Community Activation Programme demand for homeless services are effectively addressed. (SICAP). € 40 million funding for the Leader programme. Affordable Rental (Pilot): Provision of €10m for a new Affordable Rental (Pilot) scheme

New Incremental Tenant Purchase Scheme Community and Rural Development: €135m is being provided under this programme. Some 40,000 people will receive direct one-to-one labour market On November, 17th, 2015, training and supports through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Mr. Alan Kelly, T.D., Minister for the Programme (SICAP). Environment, Community and Local Government announced that he has Seniors Alert Scheme: additional funding is being provided under the Seniors signed the statutory instruments required Alert Scheme which supports the provision of monitored alarms to enable older to introduce a new tenant purchase persons, of limited means, to continue to live securely in their homes with scheme from 1 January 2016 for existing confidence. Funding will enable 10,000 monitored alarms to be provided. local authority houses. This scheme will replace the 1995 tenant purchase scheme, which closed for new applications in • The scheme will operate along the for a purchaser of 60%, 50% or 40% December 2012. incremental purchase model already off the purchase price of the house The Minister stressed the importance in place for certain newly-built and an incremental charge on the of tenant purchase in providing local authority houses and for local house equivalent to the discount. This opportunities for local authority tenants authority apartments. The discounts charge reduces to nil over a period of to become homeowners, as a means of are based on tenant, etc., income and years in annual increments of 2% of promoting sustainable communities, will enable tenants to purchase their the total value of the house, unless the while generating additional funding from houses earlier than under previous tenant purchaser resells the house or sale proceeds for local authorities to invest tenant purchase schemes. fails to comply with sale conditions in a range of social housing supports. during the charged period. • The new scheme will also promote He also highlighted the reduction in sustainable communities by • In the event of a resale within housing maintenance costs which local encouraging tenant purchasers to stay the charged period, the tenant authorities will have to pay in upkeep of in their homes for a reasonable period purchaser will be required to pay to properties, and the resources which can after purchase. the local authority the outstanding be freed up for delivering new housing incremental charge on the house schemes as a result. • The new scheme involves a discount from any resale profits.

8 Minister Kelly underlined that “this is CAPITAL about giving local authority tenants a better opportunity to own their Local Authority Housing: Total funding of over €180 million for the capital own home, and building stronger and provision for local authority housing will deliver more than 1,000 new units more stable communities. This really is a win-win for both the tenant and through a programme of construction and acquisitions. the local authority, as the tenant has the opportunity to own their own Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS): The provision of €76 million for CAS home, and the local authorities will will ensure continued focus on meeting the housing needs of vulnerable groups have resources freed up which can be with some 450 units to be provided for people with specific needs in 2016. directed towards the delivery of new social housing units.” Minister of State, Mortgage to Rent: Allocation of €17 million will allow for the expansion Paudie Coffey also noted that “the new of the scheme and assist in meeting the Government’s commitments and tenant purchase scheme underlines responses to the mortgage arrears position. the Government’s commitment to implementing the reforms set in the Social Housing Strategy 2020 and is Traveller Accommodation: A provision of €5.5 million in 2016 will support a very positive development for all the progression of a range of Traveller specific accommodation schemes. tenants of local authority houses. I would encourage tenants to consider Regeneration/Remedial Works: The 2016 provision of €85 million whether they wish, and can afford, to demonstrates the Government’s continued commitment to target the country’s avail of this opportunity to buy their most disadvantaged communities. homes from their local council”

Energy Efficiency/Retrofitting: The 2016 provision of €70 million will Delivery of 500 Modular allow for the continued upgrading of social housing stock providing warmer Housing Units for Homeless and more energy efficient homes for thousands of families. Families

Voids: Building on progress made in 2014 and 2015, a further 1,500 vacant On October, 21st, 2015, Mr Alan Kelly units will be refurbished and brought back to productive use. TD, Minister for the Environment Community & Local Government, Private Housing Grants: Funding of €45 million will provide for some 8,500 announced that the Government has grants in 2016 which will assist with adaptation works to enable older people approved the delivery of 500 units of and people with disabilities to remain living independently in their own homes modular housing for homeless families across Dublin. The aim is to have an for longer. initial 22 units in place by December with a further 128 units to follow Pyrite Remediation Scheme: Funding of €19 million will be provided in through a fast-tracked procurement. 2016 to support activity under the Pyrite Remediation Scheme. 350 units will then be provided through a national procurement framework Lead Remediation Grant Scheme: €5m will be provided in 2016 towards a overseen by the Office for Government new scheme that will assist homeowners in addressing the issue of lead in their Procurement. drinking water. The Ministers will be using their powers under the Planning & Development Acts International Climate Change Commitments: €2m is being provided in to support the use of the fastest planning 2016 towards the International Green Climate Fund. process in order for the modular units to be in place as quickly as possible Libraries: Funding for libraries is being increased with €2.75m available and ease pressure for families currently in 2016. residing in hotels and other emergency accommodation. Minister Kelly stated Leader: €40m is being provided in 2016 under the Leader programme. This that “the housing market in Dublin was programme will assist projects that improve quality of life and promote growth ruined during the recession and this and diversification of the rural economy. sector is not recovering quickly enough to keep up with demand. Therefore, as a temporary measure while supply

9 is coming on stream, I will be funding Community & Local Government, €4billion social housing strategy to the delivery of 500 modular units Alan Kelly, and Minister for State for deliver 35,000 housing units out for families in Dublin experiencing Housing, Planning & Construction, to 2020, this investment is also a homelessness. Modular units can offer a Paudie Coffey, announced further strong commitment to meeting much better quality of life than a hotel progress on social housing delivery special housing needs for those who while families are waiting to be housed with the funding of almost 1200 new may require particular supports, in more permanent settings. The units across the country. The Ministers including the elderly, persons with families that avail of these will continue allocated funding to Approved Housing an intellectual or physical disability to have the full set of supports available Bodies for the construction of 521 new and homeless persons. This comes from homelessness services. They will homes, at a cost of €84million and for on the back of the announcement not be considered to be housed by the purchase of a further 536 housing by the Ministers in May of increased the local authority, they will remain units costing €67 million. This amounts funding for local authorities to ‘homeless’ for statistical purposes but to over 200 construction projects undertake adaptations to houses to they will be in a better environment started for social housing. support people with a disability and where their family life will be minimally the elderly. disrupted. The homes will be built to • The investment, which comes to all necessary building standards with over €151 million, will be given to As well as the announcement of special the sites being selected on the basis of Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs), needs housing by Approved Housing access to community infrastructure and to assist those with specific needs Bodies, the Ministers also announced services.” Similarly. Paudie Coffey TD, such as elderly people, persons with a further set of local authority Minister with Special Responsibility for intellectual or physical disability construction proposals, of over €30m Housing, Planning and Coordination of and homeless persons. The newly value to deliver 118 new housing units. the Construction 2020 Strategy noted acquired units will come on stream Minister Kelly outlined that “this that “these modular units will assist for people with housing need this demonstrates further and sustained those with the most acute housing need year while the newly constructed progress on social housing. It will have in the Dublin Area. I now expect these units will be completed by 2017. a short-term impact with over 500 units be delivered as soon as possible.” The projects all form part of the homes being purchased with another Department of Environment’s 521 being built. In May I announced This programme of modular housing Capital Assistance Scheme. The the first major investment in local provision is being implemented to scheme seeks local authorities authority housing for many years, with mitigate the issues associated with an to prioritise proposals for people 100 new construction projects approved increasing volume of homeless families with special housing needs in co- that will deliver over 1,700 new housing accommodated in inappropriate operation with an approved housing units over a three year period. I said commercial hotel arrangements. Data body. at that time that this represented a from September indicated that there good start but more would be needed. were 738 homeless families nationally, • The overall value of this investment It’s significant, therefore, that we are the majority of which, 637 families, were in social housing via the Approved now announcing a major delivery in the Dublin Region; on a single night Housing Bodies is €151m, with programme for the Approved Housing 401 families were accommodated on an €84m of this being for new build Body sector, with over 1,000 new social emergency basis in commercial hotels construction projects. In line with housing units to cater in particular for in the Dublin Region. Modular housing the approach under the Capital the elderly, persons with a disability accommodation will offer a greater level Assistance Scheme of promoting and homeless persons.” of stability for families while move- access to community-based housing in the vicinity of necessary supports, He underlined that “approved Housing on options to long-term independent the proposals to be funded range Bodies have an important role to play living are identified and secured. for single unit developments to in delivery under the Government’s Furthermore, such arrangements will construction proposals for over Social Housing Strategy and this facilitate more coordinated needs 20 units together. The majority of announcement means they now have assessment and support planning for acquisition proposals are scheduled important targets to deliver to meet access to all required services, including to be delivered in the short term, important special housing needs. It welfare, health and housing services. with work required in some cases is an area where they have great skills to customise special needs housing. and capacity, so I look forward to Further Investment of €180m Larger scale construction proposals seeing the fruits of their work. Given in Social Housing Delivery are to be completed by 2017. the Government’s particular focus on addressing the challenging issue of Earlier in the year, on July 23rd, • As well as being a further homelessness, I’m particularly pleased 2015, Minister for the Environment, advancement on the Government’s that there will be new, dedicated, social

10 announcement by Approved Housing Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) summary by LA area: Bodies who provide very important supports for those who find themselves in need of support and shelter.” Local Authority Units Estimated Cost Carlow County Council 22 €3,872,000 Minister Coffey also noted that “the projects announced today for the Cavan County Council 14 €924,100 Approved Housing Bodies will see Clare County Council 31 €2,416,000 the construction of over 500 new accommodation units with a value Cork City Council 78 €13,266,500 of €84m, while the Local Authority Cork County Council 28 €3,288,600 construction proposals we are also DLR County Council 42 €7,432,700 announcing will deliver over €30m of construction activity across 7 Donegal County Council 15 €794,500 separate new projects. Building on Dublin City Council 141 €24,884,900 the announcement in May of 100 new social housing build projects, Fingal County Council 69 €12,940,900 these approvals will provide further Galway City Council 46 €7,503,600 support for jobs in the construction and trades sector. Given that the Galway County Council 41 €5,980,400 two recent announcements on social Kerry County Council 26 €3,930,400 housing construction encompass all local authority areas, I’m delighted that Kildare County Council 50 €4,295,500 these jobs are being spread throughout Kilkenny County Council 62 €7,119,200 communities all over the country.” Laois County Council 40 €5,428,200 New legislation passed to Limerick City & County Council 110 €13,036,900 tackle vacant and idle land and Louth County Council 3 €472,900 improve housing supply Mayo County Council 8 €895,300 In mid-July, 2015, the Urban Meath County Council 2 €402,100 Regeneration and Housing Bill 2015 was Offaly County Council 25 €3,580,700 passed by the Houses of the Oireachtas. Minister of State Coffey outlined Sligo County Council 7 €900,800 that “the Bill is another step in the South Dublin County Council 47 €5,629,700 implementation of the Government’s Construction 2020, a Strategy for a Tipperary County Council 27 €3,637,000 Renewed Construction Sector, to help Waterford City & County 42 €5,349,016 deliver a competitive and sustainable construction sector that can make its Westmeath County Council 14 €1,640,000 proper contribution to the economy, Wexford County Council 35 €4,676,500 job creation and is capable of delivering the economic and social infrastructure Wicklow County Council 32 €7,305,500 needed for the future.” TOTAL 1057 €151,603,916 There are two main strands to the legislation: On the passage of the Bill, the Minister examining the potential for a vacant stated that “the passage of this site levy to stimulate the release of badly • Firstly, a new vacant site levy on Bill is visible demonstration of the needed land for development in the right housing or regeneration lands suitable Government’s commitment to tackle locations and Ireland again leads the way for housing but not coming forward reasons why so many key sites that are in advancing innovative public policy for development and, • secondly, measures to streamline suitable for development are not coming measures like the vacant site levy”. The housing delivery including revisions forward at a time of such a major need for Minister pointed out that “It will now be to social housing and development housing”. He noted that “other countries up to local authorities to examine their contributions requirements. around Europe and globally are also development plans from now into 2016

11 Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) summary by LA area:

Local Authority Location Units Estimated Cost DLR County Council Rosemount Court 44 €10,500,000 DLR County Council Moreen Avenue 1 €400,000 Donegal County Council Carndonagh Housing Scheme 4 €680,000 Donegal County Council Dunfanaghy Housing Scheme 6 €905,000 Longford County Council Lanesborough 13 €2,000,000 Mayo County Council Single Rural Dwellings 8 €1,280,000 Wicklow County Council Kilbride Lane, Bray 42 €14,700,000 TOTAL 118 €30,465,000

and identify sites that are ready to go To that end, the practice of developers will help ensure policy responses are are not and, where there are critical making cash payments in lieu of social evidence-based and needs-led.” Minister housing shortages, to prepare vacant housing is discontinued under the Coffey also stressed that “this document sites registers and contact owners”. new legislation.” The new legislation will support a more strategic approach He also underlined that “landowners will also enable local authorities to to the provision of housing, and a will have ample opportunity to engage retrospectively implement reductions greater balance to match supply with with local authorities and there is of development charges in respect of demand. The Statement is the first of an appeal mechanism in place but existing but un-commenced planning its kind in this country, and presents I and the Government hope that permissions – improving the economics the most up-to-date information the signalling effect of the levy will of new housing development and available in relation to housing supply start people thinking about getting easing the housing shortage. and demand.” strategically located but idle sites into more beneficial use”. The report, which will be published National Statement of Housing annually, provides key data on Informed by an extensive public Supply and Demand 2014 and overall housing trends between 2007 consultation process and an Outlook for 2015-17 and 2014, examining the financial independent in-depth review of the and tenure trends over that period. operation of the social and affordable Also at the end of July, 2015, Minister It details affordability issues and housing provisions in Part V of the for Environment, Community and explores recent policy developments Planning and Development Acts, Local Government, Alan Kelly T.D. in this area. It also provides an the new legislation provides for a and his colleague, Minister of State at outlook to 2017, examining future series of amendments with the aim the Department of the Environment, housing requirements and supply of enhancing the economic viability Community and Local Government, indicators resulting in a minimum of developments, maximising the Paudie Coffey T.D., welcomed the requirement for residential units. Key opportunity for the delivery of social publication by the Housing and findings and analysis from the first housing units and securing the Sustainable Communities Agency of National Statement of Housing Supply principle of integrated mixed tenure the National Statement of Housing and Demand show that: developments. The new provisions Supply and Demand 2014 and Outlook are a key component of the range for 2015-17, a key deliverable under • The economy is recovering. The of delivery mechanisms required Construction 2020. Minister Coffey, unemployment rate is at its lowest to achieve the targets set out in the who has special responsibility for level for over five years and GDP Government’s Social Housing Strategy Housing, Planning and Coordination grew by almost 5% in 2014 and is 2020 – Support, Supply and Reform. of the Construction 2020 Strategy, predicted to grow by 4% this year. The new Part V arrangements can be thanked the Housing Agency for their retrospectively applied to existing work on the Statement, noting that “it • Population is growing. An planning permissions where works will contribute greatly to an overall increasing population and a have not commenced. The Minister understanding of housing needs in declining household size will underlined that “the aim and priority Ireland, and that the availability of increase demand for housing units. is to kick-start construction activity comprehensive data relating to current and secure social housing units on-site. housing supply and emerging needs, • Housing costs are increasing. The

12 median price paid for a residential arrangements for the delivery of social The full Report can be accessed on the property in the state in 2014 was and affordable housing, Minister Coffey Housing Agency website at €152,500, up from €140,000 in acknowledged that there are challenges www.housing.ie 2013. The first half of 2015 has ahead, but, he called on all stakeholders For further information, contact: seen asking prices for residential to “redouble efforts to boost supply and Ciara O’Connor at the Housing Agency properties in some parts of Dublin Communications Office: levelling off, while increasing by 9% focus on delivery of quality, sustainable [email protected] outside the Capital. homes for the future.” Sources: • Rents in the private rented sector http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/SpecialNeeds/HomelessPeople/News/MainBody,43615,en.htm have increased over the year, particularly for apartments in http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/News/MainBody,43637,en.htm Dublin. The Private Residential http://www.environ.ie/en/GeneralNews/MainBody,43024,en.htm Tenancies Board Rent Index found http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/News/MainBody,42225,en.htm that at a national level, average http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/News/MainBody,42348,en.htm monthly rents were 6.9% higher in http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/News/MainBody,42215,en.htm Q1 2015 when compared with Q1 http://www.prtb.ie/media-research/news-centre/latest-news/2015/12/09/latest-data-from-prtb-quarterly-rent-index 2014 (9.6% in Dublin).

• Affordability had eased during the economic downturn, but increases in house prices and rent levels, in the absence of corresponding income rises, has reduced housing affordability, particularly for those on low incomes, single earners and those in high demand areas, such as Dublin.

• There are signals of increased activity in the residential market with the number of mortgage approval rates and mortgage draw- downs both going up. There has been an on-going decline in the number of mortgages in arrears, including those in arrears for 90 days or more.

• Supply is steadily increasing, but needs to increase more to meet demand. There was a 33% increase in completions in 2014 compared to 2013. Completion figures for the first three months of 2015 show a 25% increase on output comparing the first three months of 2014.

• The Residential Land Availability Survey shows the total area of available zoned land nationally is capable of supporting over 414,000 housing units.

Outlining key Government initiatives to stimulate housing supply, such as €3.8 billion investment in social housing, and forthcoming legislative changes under planning law which will see the retrospective application of reduced development contribution charges, the introduction of a vacant site levy, and new and clear Part V

13 Connecting the Wild Atlantic Way Tourism Conference 2015 Wild Atlantic Way to have major benefits for Donegal

Donegal County Council’s Chief Cathaoirleach of Donegal County the tourism industry in Donegal as Executive and Chairman of Donegal Council, Cllr Ciaran Brogan told it was a huge employer and crucial Tourism, Ltd, Seamus Neely outlined delegates that over the past number to economic development. Mayor in his address at the second annual of years the Council had made of Letterkenny Municipal District, ‘Connecting the Wild Atlantic Way’ tourism one of their main priorities Cllr Gerry McMonagle welcomed the tourism conference, which was held and they were currently spending delegates to the town, reinforced the in the Clanree Hotel, Letterkenny over €½ million marketing the county theme of cooperation throughout on October 12th, 2015, that the while a lot of work had gone into the industry and spoke of the major collective marketing of Donegal and the development of projects such attractions and the ones yet to be a positive attitude in presenting this as Sliabh Liag, Fanad Lighthouse developed that if developed to their to the world wide tourism market and Malin Head. Cllr Ciaran Brogan full potential, would continue to is crucial, if we are to continue to emphasised that “it’s fair to say that attract tourists to the county. benefit from the growth of the Wild in Donegal we have the best product Atlantic Way. development than anywhere else in Maximize Potential the whole country. Today is about The theme of the second annual networking, sharing information Chief Executive Seamus Neely ‘Connecting the Wild Atlantic Way’ and getting to know one another and congratulated the tourism industry tourism conference this year was maybe learning from one another for embracing the Wild Atlantic Way entitled ‘Your Business, Developing how best to deal with the challenges in such a short period of time and Networks, Reaching Customers’ and we all have going forward.” He added making the considerable effort to attracted a huge attendance from all the Council was delighted it had a develop new networks that would over the county and beyond. very good working relationship with help reach more customers, maximize

Speakers at the Connecting the Wild Atlantic Way Tourism Conference in the Clanree Hotel on Friday last left to right: Seamus Neely, Chief Executive Donegal County Council, Helen Haworth, Portsalon Luxury Camping, Stephen Cotter, CIE Tours International, Kathrin Chambers, Failte Ireland, Cllr. Ciaran Brogan, Cathaoirleach Donegal County Council, Joan Crawford, Failte Ireland, Brian Harte, Tourism Ireland, Deirdre McGlone, Harveys Point Hotel, Cllr. Gerry McMonagle, Mayor of Letterkenny Municipal District.

14 publicity via Donegal Tourism online channels by sending details to: info@ govisitdonegal.com He added that today tourism in Donegal in vibrant, modern, customer driven, and professional but most importantly of all, it remains authentic and this is our real strength. He believes the Wild Atlantic Way holds great opportunities for Donegal and that we are really only beginning to see the first benefits of it and that there are multiples more by way of traffic, visitors and revenue spent. “How we collectively tap into that will determine how much of that potential we will actually realize. My own view is Donegal is the ‘wild’ part of the Wild Atlantic Way – it’s rugged, it’s beautiful, it’s vast, it has lovely communities, it has fabulous landscapes, it has the lot.”

Conference Speakers

Speakers at the conference included Joan Crawford, Wild Atlantic Way Client Services Manager with Fáilte Ireland. She delivered an overview of the project and its future potential. The conference also heard from a number of other speakers including Brian Harte, Tourism Ireland’s Head of Customer Engagement and E-Marketing; Darragh Doyle, Online Audience Strategist; Kathrin Chambers, Digital Manager at Fáilte Ireland; Stephen Cotter, General Mary Daly, Donegal County Council and Iga Lawne, Donegal Tourism in the frame at the Manager at CIE Tours International Connecting the Wild Atlantic Way Tourism Conference in the Clanree Hotel on Friday last. and Fionn Davenport, Travel Writer. Case study speakers at the event the potential on their online digital of the conference was to update and included Deirdre McGlone from platforms and showcase what their improve marketing techniques and Harvey’s Point Hotel, Donegal businesses has to offer. Mr. Neely he knew from feedback from last Town; Helen Haworth, Portsalon noted that “visitors numbers are year’s event that web-marketing and Luxury Camping and Ireland By rising because of a collective strategic web-booking potential had improved Bike founder, Seamus Gallagher from approach which has been adopted because its potential had been Carrick. They presented case studies by the entire industry across the highlighted. He also highlighted in their particular areas of expertise. county. The opportunity to network the success of developments like can act as an opportunity to explore the Donegal Gathering and Donegal The event also saw the distribution how we as a county can send an even Tourism, their successful websites of promotional materials and speed stronger message to markets at home and apps and the continued networking opportunities. and right across the world – the growth of their world wide reach message that Donegal and the Wild in promoting the Donegal ‘brand’. Atlantic Way is open for business and Mr Neely encouraged all tourism Source: looking forward to the years ahead.” providers to get their business, event Donegal County Council Communications Office. He also underlined that a key part or festival listed for free online

15 Donegal Local Enterprise Office joins Enterprise Europe Network to provide free access to global business opportunities to Donegal businesses

On Friday 13th November, 2015, the and Cork Chamber of Commerce. gateway into the EU and a bigger Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), the Launched in January, the Network is co- footprint globally. world’s largest support network for financed under ‘COSME’, the EU funding Small and Medium-sized Enterprises programme for the Competitiveness of I am confident that this new (SMEs) announced a new partnership Enterprises and SMEs. The services are partnership will help our companies with 31 Local Enterprise Offices in tailored for SMEs but are also available forge new international partnerships Ireland. to all other businesses, universities and which will contribute to a boost in research centres. Irish exports”. This will mean free access for Irish companies to Europe’s largest database Speaking at the announcement, Also speaking at the announcement with up to 10,000 new business and the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise Tom Hayes, Divisional Manager, technology opportunities in the EU and Innovation, Richard Bruton, Regions & Entrepreneurship, and many other major global markets. T.D., commented that “this new Enterprise Ireland outlined that The Enterprise Europe Network in partnership between the Enterprise “today’s announcement will open Ireland is a joint partnership between Europe Network and the Local doors for Irish companies to foster Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Enterprise Offices will provide new partnerships and access up to 60 Offices, Dublin Chamber of Commerce Irish companies with an important international markets, get advice on EU funding and support on bringing their innovative products and technologies to a global audience.

It is an important step in bringing Irish companies closer to our European counterparts, and will enhance the services that Local Enterprise Offices can offer Irish companies”.

Michael Tunney, Head of Local Enterprise in Donegal commented that “as the first-stop shop for enterprise, the network of Local Enterprise Offices’ role is to encourage a culture of entrepreneurship in Ireland.

In partnership with the Enterprise Europe Network, Local Enterprise Offices across the country can now support SMEs in becoming more Tom Hayes, Enterprise Ireland; Conor Healy, Cork Chamber of Commerce; Eileen knowledgeable and competitive in Kelly, LEO Donegal; Gina Quin, Dublin Chamber of Commerce; Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton TD; Jan Gerritsen, Enterprise Ireland; global markets, leading to greater Oisin Geoghegan, LEO Fingal international business opportunities”.

16 · The Enterprise Europe Network helps Irish companies to make the SEPTIC TANK OPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVES most of business and technology Your Guide to Conventional, Natural and Eco-friendly opportunities in the EU and major Methods and Technologies by Féidhlim Harty other global markets, with close to 600 business support organisations Published by Permanent Publications. Print edition ISBN: 9781856232081; in up to 60 countries including PDF edition ISBN: 9781856232098 China, USA, Japan, India, Russia, Reviewed by Peter Cowman, director of the Living Architecture Centre Brazil, Canada etc Based on over they fall within the current EPA Code · The Enterprise Europe Network 20 years hands- of Practice - Wastewater Treatment and offers fast track international on experience Disposal Systems Serving Single growth by providing practical the author Houses, the default guide used by advice, targeted market of this book building designers and County intelligence and personalised presents the Council planning departments. While support to companies across the reader with a the author himself has contributed to this official guide he clearly points out EU. The EEN provides access to range of sewage treatment that its scope is limited to soils of good sourcing international Business systems and percolation and sufficient depth and to and Technology Partners, access to management relatively conventional treatment finance and EU funding, support to options with options and that it specifically take innovations to market, advice a clear bias acknowledges that there may be other on intellectual property rights and towards systems solutions available that meet the terms EU Law conformity and Standards that are natural, of the code. zero energy, recycle biomass or So, if one wants want to explore a greater · There are over 4000 EEN experts nutrients, and/or produce a firewood selection of sustainable solutions or on call throughout the whole crop at the end of the year. Adopting if one has soils that are unsuitable for Network. The EEN partner websites a clear and lively tone from the outset percolation then his ‘unofficial’ guide are: Féidhlim Harty reveals a clear love will provide a most useful map to and deep knowledge of his subject what’s on offer in respect of the most www.enterprise-ireland.com while charting a clear route forward ecofriendly solution available. for the reader, particularly those with a www.localenterprise.ie preference for sustainable solutions. The book offers a three-step process www.dublinchamber.ie to get from where one is to where www.corkchamber.ie Yeah! one wants to be in respect of sewage www.corkchamber.ie At the outset the author acknowledges treatment systems: the dawning realisation that many Step A outlines how to make an septic tanks currently in use actually For further information contact: Brigid assessment of your current system. Burke, Press Office, Enterprise Ireland cause water pollution and he emphasises how vital it is that we on 01 7272434 or brigid.burke@ Step B allows one to take stock of take better care of our drinking water enterprise-ireland.com one’s particular site characteristics and supplies, of our fishing streams and personal preferences. our rivers and lakes. As he points out, Information on the Enterprise Europe now that the septic tank inspection Step C examines the options available Network (EEN) can be found on the process is being rolled out nationally and looks at how one can to move dedicated Irish website: this, happily, is leading to a situation forward towards implementation of www.een-ireland.ie whereby many people are keen to one’s chosen option. know how best to deal with their own as well as the EU website: Each of these Steps is supported with http://een.ec.europa.eu/. sh**. Not only is this the ideal book for them but it also serves as an essential clear diagrams, illustrations, and, most usefully, worksheets! So really, To access your local EEN advisor please guide to those planning on buying an existing property or those this is a workbook, an invaluable and contact your Local Enterprise Office, intending to construct a new dwelling. ‘always on’ companion to successfully or Enterprise Ireland. managing the vital issue of viable and All of the treatment system healthy sewage treatment systems methodologies that the author is and management options. As such it Source: Donegal County Council Communications Office aware of at the time of writing are belongs in every household and in every and Enterprise Ireland Press Office included, whether or not building designer’s library.

17 New Index of Social Progress shows Ireland’s social services and infrastructure have progressed more slowly than GDP every year since 1995

being. Economic growth can mean more “It is not acceptable that Ireland’s social Stage of Life progress has lagged behind its economic Indicator incomes, more jobs, and more housing, growth through good times and bad over but it can also mean more income for the the past 20 years” according to Dr Seán Children Infant mortality very rich, more jobs that do not pay a living Healy, Director of Social Justice Ireland. “A Child poverty wage, and more debt. new Index of Social Progress, published by Children in foster care Social Justice Ireland at its annual Social Youth Teenage suicide Rising inequality and hidden and ignored Policy Conference on Tuesday, November environmental and social costs can mask Teenage pregnancy 24th, 2015 shows Ireland’s services and the reality behind the headline statistics of School retention rate infrastructure are consistently the poor economic growth. Furthermore, much of relation no matter what is happening in Adult Unemployment rate the economic growth can be just a transfer the economy.” Average wages from the middle to the top, and in terms of Alcohol consumption environmental impacts, from the future to In a presentation, entitled ‘Beyond GDP: Drug offences the present.” - Professor Charles Clark and Measuring Ireland’s Progress in the 21st Dr Catherine Kavanagh. Old Aged Poverty among the Century’ Professor Charles Clark and elderly Dr Catherine Kavanagh, two eminent In the Index of Social Progress (ISP) Life expectancy economists, presented their Index for of the over 65s Professor Clark and Dr Kavanagh (lecturer Social Progress (ISP) and stated that “Irish in economics at UCC) have included citizens and policy makers need to go All Ages Homicides indicators focusing on different stages beyond the narrow ‘economic growth will Traffic fatalities of life: children, youth, adult, older aged solve all problems’ approach that fueled Medical card coverage and combined them with indicators that the Celtic Tiger economy while distracting Household debt impact on everyone. They also showed that policy makers from the real purpose of when environmental indicators are added Social housing economic policy: improving societal well- expenditure it becomes clear that the environment has being.” received even less attention than many Net migration societal issues. Inequality Clark and Kavanagh argued that society in general and policy makers in particular In a paper entitled ‘What Should need to go beyond GDP and apply a broader the costs that threaten our common home. Ireland Do Now?’ presented at the same set of indicators when they are planning for This approach is clearly not sustainable.” conference, Social Justice Ireland staff the future. Clark (Professor of Economics They also highlighted that “sometimes members Seán Healy, Brigid Reynolds and in St John’s University, New York) stated: economic growth is an effective means to Michelle Murphy argued that previous “GDP excludes many of the factors that improving people’s lives, yet sometimes it recoveries in Ireland have focused promote human flourishing and it excludes becomes decoupled from improving well- principally on economic issues.

18 A more balanced approach is required. that public policy should now focus The performance of the indicators since Substantial additional investment in social on delivering five key outcomes i.e. a 1995 shows the following pattern. services, such as education and health, and vibrant economy, decent public services, in infrastructure such as social housing just taxation, good governance and Indicators that have improved from and childcare is essential if Ireland is ever to sustainability. 1995-2012: bring these up to EU-average levels. Details of what this might entail were • Life expectancy of the elderly, road Michelle Murphy argued that: “Sustainable presented. Sean Healy stated that: “A traffic deaths, teenage pregnancy, employment growth can be underpinned society where well-being is valued and the infant mortality, school retention by an investment programme that invests common good is at the core of decision rates. in both economic and social infrastructure. making is possible. Its delivery is a question Domestic economic investment is sorely of political will. Leadership, ambition and Indicators that have worsened since needed to provide employment and commitment are required.” 1995-2012: provide much-needed infrastructure; this would reduce short-term unemployment Indicators used in the ISP • Children in foster care, medical card and increase the long-run productivity of coverage, household debt. “ the Irish economy.” “For the period 1995-2012, the index is constructed using 14 indicators for which Background information: “All of the issues addressed above should data is available. Net migration is important be focused on the over-arching purpose in the Irish context and is included as a Social Justice Ireland is an independent of improving the well-being of all, both measure of progress in Ireland. Over the think tank and justice advocacy at home and abroad. This over-arching full period ….the ISP is lower than GDP in organisation that advances the lives purpose is often ignored or not given every year…. This is interesting in itself, of people and communities through sufficient prominence. It needs to be placed given that the period covers the Celtic providing independent social analysis at the centre of policy making if we are to Tiger era….” - Professor Charles Clark and and effective policy development to see balanced, integrated development and Dr Catherine Kavanagh. create a sustainable future for every the emergence of a just and sustainable member of society and for societies as a world. “ - Sean Healy, Brigid Reynolds, “The ISP is lower than GDP in every year. whole. Michelle Murphy This is interesting in itself, given that the period covers the Celtic Tiger era and the Source: Social Justice Ireland, 2015 The Social Justice Ireland team argued property boom period. Five policy areas to deliver a just and sustainable society Vibrant Economy Decent services and Just taxation Good Sustainability infrastructure Governance

Fiscal and financial Secure services and Bring Taxes towards Deliberative Promote climate stability and social infrastructure EU average democracy & justice and protect the sustainable economic PPNs environment growth Adequate Investment Combat Increase taxes Reform Policy Balanced regional programme unemployment & equitably and reduce Evaluation development underemployment income inequality

Reduce Ireland’s Ensure seven Social, Secure fair share of Social dialogue New indicators of debt burden Economic and corporate profits for – all sectors progress and new Cultural rights are the State in deliberative Satellite National achieved process Accounts

19 COP21 in Paris - An historic agreement

On Saturday the 12th December, 2015 a deal to attempt to limit the rise in global temperatures to less than 2C was agreed at the COP21 climate change summit in Paris after two weeks of intense negotiations.

The deal unites all the world’s nations balance between sources and sinks of decarbonise the Irish economy by in a single agreement on tackling greenhouse gases in the second half of 2050. climate change for the first time in this century. history. It is noted that the Paris agreement To review each country’s contribution will have a significant impact on the The fact that a consensus was to cutting emissions every five years policy decisions Ireland will make reached among nearly 200 countries so they scale up to the challenge. in the years and decades to come on the need to cut greenhouse gas as we move to a more decarbonised emissions is regarded by many For rich countries to help poorer economy. observers as “historic”. Particularly nations by providing “climate when compared with the disastrous finance” ($100billion a year by 2020) Many issues will need to be addressed, Copenhagen talks in 2009 and before to adapt to climate change and switch from how we generate our electricity that the Kyoto Protocol of 1997 which to renewable energy. and how we store it, to how we build set emission cutting targets for only our infrastructure and operate our a handful of developed countries, Speaking in the aftermath of the talks, transport system. however the US pulled out and others John Danilovich, Secretary General failed to comply. of our partners the International Business will also need to play its Chamber of Commerce and one of the part by working with Government to The goal of preventing what scientists major voices of business at the climate support innovation and investment regard as dangerous and irreversible talks, stated that “this is a truly as we transition into a low-carbon levels of climate change - judged to historic moment in our shared efforts economy. be reached at around 2C of warming to meet the climate challenge. above pre-industrial times - is central To read a copy of the full agreement, visit to the agreement. Business has consistently called for a the UNFCCC website: robust and ambitious deal at COP21 The world is already nearly halfway and governments have delivered just United Nations Conference of the there at almost 1C and during the that.” Parties, Twenty-first session Paris, 30 negotiations many countries argued November to 11 December 2015, for a tougher target of 1.5C - including From the Irish perspective, Ireland leaders of low-lying countries that was one of the few EU countries which http://unfccc.int/resource/ face unsustainable sea levels rises in a went into the negotiations with its docs/2015/cop21/eng/l09r01. warming world. own climate change legislation. pdf” http://unfccc.int/resource/ docs/2015/cop21/eng/l09r01.pdf The Paris agreement identifies the The Climate Action and Low Carbon following targets as part of the deal: Development Bill will become law For more information on the work To keep global temperatures “well in the New Year where it provides for of the International Chamber of below” 2.0C (3.6F) and “endeavour to a carbon neutral situation by mid- Commerce on energy and the climate limit” them even more, to 1.5C. century and also commits to match negotiations, Ireland’s targets with those of the EU. To limit the amount of greenhouse http://cop21.iccwbo.org/” http:// gases emitted by human activity to the An expert advisory council, similar to cop21.iccwbo.org/ same levels that trees, soil and oceans the Fiscal Advisory Council, has also can absorb naturally, beginning at been established under the legislation some point between 2050 and 2100 and will advise Government Source: http://www.chambers.ie/media/news/2015/12/14/ To peak greenhouse gas emissions Departments and agencies on the cop21-in-paris-an-historic-agreement/ as soon as possible and achieve a actions required to significantly

20 EUROCHAMBRES Economic Survey 2016: slow European recovery continues despite fragile business confidence

On December 1st, 2015 Structural reforms seem to be understandable sensitivity Chambers Ireland outlined that having a positive effect in several to currency fluctuations and ‘EUROCHAMBRES, the European member states, but results show that geopolitical tensions.” Chamber of Commerce, 23rd considerable progress is still needed annual Economic Survey (EES2016) in Cyprus and Greece. Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, has shown that 2016 growth Chambers Ireland commented: perspectives are improving, however The survey shows that despite “The Irish and wider European stagnating domestic demand, uncertain external economic geopolitical tensions and crises in recovery process will only gather conditions and rising labour costs Emerging Market Economies, the real momentum when business are cited as the main challenges for domestic demand, employment and confidence and in turn investment the year ahead. export sales indicators forecasts levels pick up. suggest a strong positive reaction Irish Chambers of Commerce were to lower oil prices and Euro This underlines the importance of among 56,000 businesses and depreciation. EU level initiatives to facilitate the Chambers of Commerce from 26 movement of capital, to create an European countries to feed into this EUROCHAMBRES Secretary General internal market that’s fit for the economic survey.’ Arnaldo Abruzzini highlighted that digital era and to secure ambitious “the overall results are encouraging international trade agreements”. External factors and reforms and improvements in sales and The results of EES2016 show that employment indicate that the post- external factors (a weaker Chinese crisis reform agenda is having a economy, the Russian economic positive effect. But EES2016 also Source: http://www.chambers.ie/media/news/2015/12/01/ crisis) are affecting some of Europe’s highlights businesses’ ongoing eurochambres-economic-survey-2016/ leading export countries. caution, as well as exporters’

In detail

• Domestic sales • Export sales are expected • Employment in 2016 • Investment and business expectations for 2016 to increase in 2016 after registers a modest confidence do not follow are positive, with a small drop in 2015. improvement, the positive trend of other Spanish, Portuguese and These fluctuations can continuing the positive indicators. Feedback Romanian businesses in part be attributed trend of 2015. Eastern from the Chamber network links the drop in the most optimistic. to the effects of the European countries confidence with concerns Part of this success is due euro depreciation generally anticipate among businesses about to the reduction of oil and geopolitical a positive year for job recent economic and prices that will boost the concerns. The greatest creation, while Italian political tensions outside private consumption for improvement is recorded expectations remain the EU. Slovakia, Slovenia, the next year. in Portugal and Latvia. negative. Estonia and Hungary register a particularly significant fall in business confidence for 2016.

21 News items

‘SPACEial’ North West project wins prestigious Chambers Ireland Award

SPACEial North West picked up a prestigious Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Award at the Chambers Ireland Annual Excellence in Local Government Awards ceremony held in Dublin on Thursday 12th November, 2015. This is the 12th annual awards ceremony which recognises and celebrates the best of Local Government. Chambers Ireland’s Excellence in Local Government Awards showcase The Donegal project team with Mr. Ian Talbot, Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland and the Minister Alan Kelly T.D. best practice in local government, highlighting some of the great projects develop policies, plans and strategies for help inform their plans and policies and that local authorities are undertaking. the enhancement of the entire region. equips them with the necessary skills to The Awards are judged by a panel of The project produced a dedicated website, use different GIS technologies to make expert judges working in the field of www.spaceialnw.eu which is essentially a best use of the data available.” He also Local Government and have been taking one stop shop for Maps, Stats and Apps in noted that “this project has provided place since 2004. the North West Region Cross Border. a much needed platform in the North West Region in using geographical The SPACEial North West project has won In presenting the awards, Alan Kelly, information to develop plans and first place in the Joint Local Authority T.D., Minister for the Environment, policies and has the potential to impact Initiatives category. Community and Local Government on the lives of 317,518 people who live commented: “These awards are an in this cross-border region”. Ian Talbot, SPACEial NorthWest is a crossborder opportunity for each local authority to Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland project with Donegal County Council showcase to the public the hard work commented that “in spite of the many being the lead implementing council, being undertaken in the community challenges they have faced in recent years, working closely with the Derry City and year on year and the real benefits Local Authorities continue to deliver Strabane District Council, Limavady being delivered. I congratulate all innovative and necessary projects that Borough Council and Magherafelt who delivered the nominated projects benefit and support local communities. District Council in responding to the for work excellently well done and It is an honour to host these awards and need for crossborder data to inform and encourage the local government sector recognise the hard work that takes place shape policies and decisions within the to come forward next year with even at the core of local government across the entire region. The project is a response to more examples of the good that is being country. I want to congratulate Carlow the need for cross border spatial data to done at local level.” Congratulating County Council, the sixteen winners, the inform and shape policies and decision the project team Seamus Neely, Chief many shortlisted organisations but also making within the region. It has worked Executive of Donegal County Council just as importantly, the people who made with key stakeholders providing them outlined that the SPACEial project was all these projects and activities happen.” with the combination of spatial datasets all about placing data at the heart of Source: which are most relevant to their needs decision making. “It provides both public Donegal County Council Communications Office and provides them with the technical sector and non-public sector agencies and Enterprise Ireland Press Office skills to enable them to use this data to with 159 cross-border spatial datasets to

22 Water Safety Award for water safety all developed by Caroline First Irish Organisations Primary Schools in County Casey, Water Safety Development Officer, Achieve Certification to Cork County Council. Each session Cork facilitated is a mix of storytelling, board New International Business by Caroline Casey, Water & Road Safety games, action activities & interactive Standards Development Officer, Cork County Council learning. There is no cost involved for the school. Our goal is that all children - Clare County Council became the The launch of the Cork County Council get the opportunity to have water safety first local authority in Ireland to Water Safety Awareness Award took place education in primary school and that achieve certification to the new in early November, 2015. This award each school who participates will be Excellence Through People standard. is a Flag which can be flown inside or recognised officially for supporting this outside the school. The good news is initiative. 45 schools are flying the flag - Repak and Imperial Tobacco have that on completion of the Programme already. 90 School visits will have been become the first Irish companies each school will be eligible to apply to facilitated before the end of 2015. This to achieve certification to the the Council for the Award. This is a great means our “Wise up around Water” new revised standards in Quality badge of honour for the school as well message will have reached approx 5,000 Management (ISO:9001)and as and most importantly it gives the Cork children between the ages of 5 and Environmental Management children the opportunity to participate in 12 by the end of 2015. Feedback from the (ISO:14001) respectively at a personal safety education. The children schools has been excellent. ceremony in NSAI offices in Dublin. learn valuable safety information & We encourage every school in the techniques around water. Irish Water - The firms are among 38 organisations County to take this opportunity of Safety has been very supportive of this who achieved certificates to world getting involved in our “Wise Up Around initiative and their Land PAWS program class standards today in areas such Water” Campaign in Cork County. Cork is part of the criteria for the flag status. as Food Management Systems, is the largest County in the Country Excellence Through People and The items covered are very practical with the largest % of coast line & inland Health and Safety Management and useful in every day events. Safety in waterways so it is fitting that we are the Systems the home, farm, pool, rivers, lakes and first Local Authority to implement such beaches are all covered. On completion, an education drive around water safety. - NSAI has issued over 5,550 certificates certificates will be issued from Irish Water Our waterways are beautiful but can be to organisations worldwide Safety and the Flag & Pack will be awarded dangerous too so we all need to spread on behalf of Cork County Council. Packs the water safety message. Thirty-eight organisations from the awarded with the flag include Card & Source: private, public and SME sectors gathered Board Games and a story book based on Communications Office, Cork County Council. at NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland) offices in Dublin on Tuesday, 17th November 2015 for a special ceremony marking their achievement in becoming certified to world class standards.

Clare County Council became the first local authority in Ireland to achieve certification to the new Excellence Through People standard. This standard provides a business improvement model for organisations to enhance performance and realise strategies through the management and development of their people. Commenting on its certification to this important standard, Mr. Ger Dollard, Director of Service, Clare County Council emphasised that “achieving

23 this certification speaks volumes and demonstrates Clare County Council’s innovative and progressive culture. It shows by working together we can all achieve success and this collaborative effort has now resulted in this prestigious and sought-after Excellence Through People certificate.”

Two organisations, Repak and Imperial Tobacco, became the first companies in Ireland to achieve certification in the two new international business standards, Quality Management (ISO 9001) and Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001). These standards were revised and launched in September this year to reflect the increasingly globalised business environment Clare County Council has become the first local authority in Ireland to achieve certification to the HR organizations now operate within and standard Excellence Through People Pictured is Director of Services Clare County Council Ger Dollard receiving the certificate in Excellence Through People from NSAI Chairperson Julie O’Neill. changing customer expectations due to advances in technology. International requirements seek certification to businesses to help them apply it. Where standards, Quality Management internationally recognised standards, a standard may be needed, NSAI will Systems (ISO9001) and Environmental such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS work with relevant parties at national Management Systems (ISO14001) 18001.Certification to these standards or international level to create the and are used by almost 1.5 million can also be a deal breaker when it comes appropriate standard. NSAI improves companies worldwide. to securing export opportunities.” the performance of Irish business and protects consumers through the setting

of standards and issuing of certification Mr. Seamus Clancy, CEO of Repak All 38 organisations who achieved in the quality and safety of goods and stated that “we are delighted that Repak certification today were independently services. has been the first company in Ireland audited by NSAI inspectors in order to receive the new ISO 9001:2015 to ensure they complied with the NSAI has 3,000 Irish companies certified Certification. This is a major milestone standards. They join an elite group worldwide. 10,000 certificates have been for the organisation and builds upon our of over 3,000 organisations who are issued by the NSAI to date, to companies success in helping Ireland become one of currently NSAI certified in a variety – including 500 global medical device the top packaging recycling countries in of areas such as Food Management companies. Europe over the past 18 years. We have Systems, Excellence Through People strived to constantly improve our quality Development and Health and Safety NSAI invites members of the business management systems and streamline a Management Systems.A study carried community and the general public to complex ecosystem within the recycling out by Behaviour and Attitudes get involved in the development of industry. This achievement is in no small revealed that more than 82 per cent of standards by visiting Your Standards, part due to the consistent commitment Managing Directors in Ireland believe Your Say on www.nsai.ie. All standards of our 2,120 members. This is a crucial that multinationals are more likely to are also available from www.standards. endorsement of Repak and underscores do business with an Irish company that iewww.standards.ie how we work to the highest possible adheres to internationally recognised standards in promoting and driving standards. 73 per cent said they believed better recycling in Ireland.” that companies with standards have The full list of companies certified at today’s better reputations, while 62 per cent NSAI certification ceremony are: Speaking at the presentation ceremony said compliance with standards is now a in Dublin this morning, NSAI prerequisite in tender competitions. 1. ABP Food Group, Cahir, Chairperson Julie O’Neill highlighted Co. Tipperary the real business value of investing in 2. Ailesbury Services, East Wall, Dublin standards: “The challenges faced by Irish About NSAI: 3. Allianz Ireland, Dublin businesses today are very different from NSAI (National Standards Authority of 4. Balfour Beatty Ireland, Dublin a few decades ago. Technology is driving Ireland) is the national standards and 5. Berendsen, Dun Laoghaire, Dublin increased expectations from customers measurement body. Where a standard 6. Carlow Concrete Tanks, Bunclody, and businesses. More and more tender already exists, NSAI works with Wexford

24 7. Clare County Council The standards awarded to companies Tourism Ireland 8. Clear Channel Ireland Ltd, include: 2016 marketing plans Clonskeagh, Dublin · ISO 14001 - Environmental launched 9. Delmec Engineering Ltd, Management Systems Graiguecullen, Carlow · Tourism Ireland sets its sights · OHSAS 18001 - Occupational Health 10. Finnegan Steel Fabrications Ltd, on another record year for Irish & Safety Management Systems Clondalkin, Dublin tourism in 2016 11. Fallon Consulting Engineers, Tuam · ETP - Excellence Through People Road, Galway · 8.2 million visitors to generate 12. Gas Networks Ireland, Dublin and €4.4 billion spend · ISO 9001 – Quality Management Cork Systems 13. Arc Engineering and Manufacturing Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mr. Paschal Donohoe TD, on Services, Wexford · ISO 22000 – Food Management Monday, 30th November, 2015 along 14. Geodis Ireland Ltd, Mulhuddart, Systems Dublin with Tourism Ireland and tourism industry leaders from around the 15. Hentech Fabrication Ltd, · ISO 50001 – Energy Management country launched details of the Enniscorthy, Wexford Systems marketing plans to promote Ireland 16. Iarnród Éireann, Laois overseas in 2016 and beyond. 17. Imperial Tobacco, Mullingar, Excellence Through People: Excellence Through People is a Human Westmeath Tourism Ireland aims “‘to surpass this Resource National Specification. It 18. Irish Air Corps, Dublin year’s record performance in overseas became a full part of NSAI certification 19. Irish Rollforming Ltd, Cork tourism and to welcome 8.2 million in 2012. This followed the proactive 20. LMH Engineering Ltd, Arklow, visitors to Ireland in 2016. This figure co-operation between FAS (ETP’s Wicklow will represent growth of +4% over 2015 previous managing body), CIPD (the 21. M B McNamara Construction Ltd, and deliver €4.4 billion to the Irish professional body for HR) and Engineers Dublin economy (almost +5%) next year. To Ireland. The objective was to realign 22. McGrattan & Kenny Ltd, Dublin illustrate how much Irish tourism has the standard as far as possible with 23. MFL Ltd, Kilcullen, Kildare international best practice. Amongst bounced back since the downturn, a 24. Molloy Precast Products Ltd, other improvements this involved comparison of CSO figures for January Tullamore, Offaly moving to an annual audit as part of a to October 2015 versus the same 25. Nanodiamond Products Ltd, three year registration cycle. The result period in 2010 shows superb growth in Shannon, Clare was ETP 1000:2012 which is now more visitors from Britain (+20% in that five- 26. Newenham Mulligan & Associates, closely aligned with NSAI’s existing year period), North America (+51%), Dublin suite of certifications. Organisations Mainland Europe (+38%) and Australia 27. Northside Homecare Services, have responded enthusiastically to and developing markets (+66%).” Dublin ETP. They have recognised that this Consolidating this year’s success and 28. OMF Engineering Solutions Ltd, voluntary certification plays a key role sustaining growth into the future is at Carlow in promoting change management in the core of Tourism Ireland’s strategy 29. Repak Ltd, Dublin all sectors of industry and the State and for 2016. Beneficial factors include: new 30. Sanbra Fyffe, Dublin Semi-State sectors, as well as driving flights to Ireland, stronger economies in our key source markets, the Ireland 31. Sgr Scientific Ltd, Dublin Ireland’s competitiveness. ‘brand’ (or image abroad) remains 32. Shanderry Elevator & Escalator strong, as well as favourable exchange Consultants, Offaly For further information, see video rates for sterling and the dollar. Other 33. Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd, of Repak’s Quality Manager Colm Munnelly explaining the difference positives factors working in the Kinsale Road, Cork certification to the new Quality organisation’s favour, include Tourism 34. Superior Pipeline Products Ltd, Management Systems standard will Ireland’s strength in digital and social Osberstown, Naas, Kildare make to his company: media (the organisation is the third 35. Systherm Controlled Environment https://www.youtube.com/ most popular tourism board in the Technologies Ltd, Dublin watch?v=eptn8Ij-C2w world on Facebook). The release of Star 36. Thermal Insulation Distributors Ltd, For further information, visit NSAI.ie or Wars Episode VII – which will feature Dublin follow on Twitter @NSAI_Standards Skellig Michael – also presents Tourism 37. Woodloe Steel Fabrication Ltd, Ireland with a truly unique opportunity Dublin Source: to highlight the South West and Ireland 38. OMC Technologies Ltd, Limerick Sinead O’Donnell, Public Reklations Offficer, NSAI. in 2016.

25 records. Skellig Michael is one of the very few ‘real world’ locations to feature in the movie – providing Tourism Ireland with a truly unique opportunity to promote the Skelligs and the broader Wild Atlantic Way. Tourism Ireland has worked with Lucasfilm (the producer) to capture the film on location on Skellig Michael and will launch a dedicated Star Wars campaign in early January.

Dublin: Tourism Ireland will also highlight Dublin – “between the mountains and the sea” – particularly in the shoulder and off-seasons and will capitalise on the recent inclusion of Dublin at number three in the world in the prestigious ‘Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2016’. Following the success of the Wild Atlantic International publicity: Way, a new ad highlighting Tourism Ireland’s Ancient East: Our newest Ireland’s latest tourism experience, Tourism Ireland will also ramp up its tourism experience, Ireland’s Ancient Ireland’s Ancient East, was also unveiled publicity programme around the world East, will be unveiled around the world also at the end of November. The ad will – placing increased focus on digital in 2016. Tourism Ireland’s brand new launch in January 2016 in 23 markets channels and working more closely Ireland’s Ancient East advert will launch around the world. Tourism Ireland will with online media, including bloggers. in January, in 23 markets around the also promote Dublin – “A Breath of Fresh This year, Tourism Ireland’s publicity world. Air” – in major markets throughout activities generated thousands of articles 2016. and broadcasts, worth an estimated Tourism Ireland’s Global €320 million. Greening 2016: 2016 will mark the Tourism Ireland’s focus in 2016, includes: seventh year of Tourism Ireland’s Global Collaboration: Tourism Ireland will Greening initiative – when hundreds of Tourism Ireland has identified a provide thousands of promotional iconic landmarks and sites around the number of key themes to underpin engagements for Irish tourism world will be illuminated in green to its promotional activity in 2016 and enterprises and trade partners overseas celebrate our national day. continue to grow visitor numbers from – to help them do business overseas overseas. and facilitate them to ‘close the sale’, Ireland 2016: Ireland 2016, when the particularly in the digital space. The 100th anniversary of the Easter Rising These include: organisation will continue to work will be commemorated, will also be Digital and social media: In 2016, closely with airlines and airports – highlighted to people everywhere – Tourism Ireland will continue to leverage building on its successful co-operative with Tourism Ireland showcasing major its strength in digital and social media – marketing programme, with a dedicated new attractions and the year’s signature especially important in developing new €1 million fund for promoting flights to events. ways of reaching, and connecting more regional airports. frequently, with our target audiences. Target audiences: In addition Tourism Ireland is now the third most Wild Atlantic Way: Promoting the to our key ‘culturally curious’ and popular tourism board in the world Wild Atlantic Way will remain a key ‘social energisers’ audiences, Tourism on Facebook (about 3.33 million focus for Tourism Ireland in 2016, with Ireland will also target niche segments fans), number two on Twitter (317,000 Tourism Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way – including golfers, business and followers) and number two on YouTube. TV ad reaching 28 million prospective incentive visitors, as well as the Diaspora Tourism Ireland’s international website, holidaymakers in France and Germany in Britain, North America and Australia. http://www.ireland.com/ attracted a alone. record 16.5 million visitors in 2015. Next Speaking at the launch, Minister for year, a new forum will be developed on Leveraging Star Wars: Star Wars Transport, Tourism and Sport, Paschal Ireland.com, a community approach to Episode VII is possibly the most Donohoe TD, said: “I welcome the making it easier for a potential visitor to anticipated film of all time, with pre- ambitious targets that are set out by plan their holiday to Ireland. opening ticket sales beating all previous Tourism Ireland in its marketing plans

26 for 2016. I want to again acknowledge for potential visitors around the world Increase of 12.8% in overseas the excellent work that Tourism to read, hear or watch positive messages visits Ireland carries out overseas with such about Ireland; Tourism Ireland estimates professionalism, as well as the vital that this media exposure is worth an On Wednesday 25 November 2015, role that our tourism industry plays estimated €320 million in equivalent CSO figures on Overseas Travel show an in generating economic growth and advertising value.” increase of 12.8% in overseas visits to employment opportunities. 2016 and beyond Ireland for the first ten months of 2015 compared to the same period of 2014. That is why we continue to invest in Tourism Ireland’s targets for 2016 will tourism marketing, and in supporting see Ireland welcome 8.2 million visitors, At over 7.4 million visits, overall trips our tourism businesses to enhance representing growth of +4% over 2015. to Ireland were up 12.8% in the first ten their competitiveness. Our policies on Commenting on the year ahead, Niall months of 2015 compared to the same the air travel tax and VAT have helped Gibbons underlined that “following a period in 2014. For the three-month to improve the value on offer for our successful 2015, ambitious targets have period from August to October 2015, visitors. been set again for 2016 and beyond. overseas trips to Ireland increased by 14.0%. The overall tourism goal of Government We will unveil Ireland’s Ancient East – as expressed in our Tourism Policy around the world, while continuing to Visits from Mainland Europe grew by Statement – is that by 2025, revenue place a major focus on the Wild Atlantic 14.1% for January to October 2015, to from overseas visitors, excluding carrier Way. We will also highlight Dublin, in 2,633,100 visits and by 16.9% for the receipts, will increase to €5 billion net particular capitalising on the recent August to October period. of inflation. We aim to have 10 million inclusion of Dublin at number three visits to Ireland annually by 2025 and in the world in the prestigious ‘Lonely North America registered an increase 250,000 people employed in the tourism Planet Best in Travel 2016’. of 13.3% for January to October 2015 sector, compared to 205,000 at present. (1,343,400 visits) and of 10.6% in the Early next year, we will leverage the August to October 2015 period. In August I appointed a new Tourism huge global popularity of Star Wars, Leadership Group, which will identify following the upcoming launch of Star Visits from Great Britain were up by the specific actions required over the Wars Episode VII. And we will work 11.3% for January to October 2015 period 2016-2018 in order to achieve with the Department of Foreign Affairs (2,981,600 visits) and by 11.8% for the the longer-term goals in the Tourism and Trade, to highlight Ireland 2016 to three months from August to October Policy Statement. These actions will be people everywhere – showcasing major 2015 compared to the corresponding contained in a Tourism Action Plan to be new attractions and the year’s signature period of 2014. published early next year.” events.” 2015 performance Visits from the rest of the world (mostly Access developments for 2015 include long-haul and developing markets) Latest estimates indicate that, by year three new Aer Lingus transatlantic totalled 461,300 for the first ten months end, 7.9 million people will have visited flights to Dublin from Los Angeles, of 2015 (representing an increase of Ireland in 2015, representing an +11% Hartford (Connecticut) and Newark 13.5%) and increased by 23.3% for the increase over 2014, with growth recorded (New Jersey). Aer Lingus will also launch three months from August to October from all markets. Revenue generated by services from Pisa and Montpelier to alone. international visitors is expected to be Dublin and from Düsseldorf to Cork. almost €4.2 billion, +16% increase over last year. Niall Gibbons, CEO of Tourism Other new routes in the pipeline include Commenting on the figures, Minister Ireland, stated that: “2015 is set to be the Flybe flights from Edinburgh and Donohoe stated: ‘The figures published best year ever for Irish tourism. And I am Birmingham to Ireland West Airport by the CSO today confirm that the delighted to report that growth has been Knock; CityJet’s flights from Nantes and strong tourism performance from recorded from all our markets around La Rochelle to Cork; an Iberia Express overseas markets has continued into the world – with record numbers arriving flight between Madrid and Cork; Air the Autumn months. All of our main here from North America, Mainland Canada rouge from Vancouver to Dublin; markets are showing good growth levels Europe and Australia and developing as well as a recently launched Ryanair and we remain on target for our best ever markets. Throughout the year, Tourism flight from Amsterdam to Dublin. year in terms of overseas visits.’ Ge also Ireland undertook a packed programme underlined that he will be ‘launching of promotions, to bring Ireland to the the 2016 Marketing Plans for Tourism attention of travellers everywhere. Source: Ireland. Looking to the longer term, I http://www.dttas.ie/press-releases/2015/minister-donohoe- will publish a detailed Tourism Action Thousands of opportunities were created launches-tourism-ireland-2016-marketing-plans Plan early in 2016 so that the necessary

27 structures are in place to ensure that here from North America (+13% on the of optimism on the ground. While the the sector can continue to grow in a first ten months of 2014). Ireland now general expectation is that growth will sustainable manner into the future.’ welcomes 10% of all American visitors to continue into next year, we can’t be too Commenting on the figures, Minister Europe – particularly noteworthy given complacent and tourism can still be of State Michael Ring T.D. stated: ‘The the intense competition from other influenced by external factors – whether continued growth in visitor numbers is a destinations. Mainland Europe has also currency exchange fluctuations or tribute to the work of the tourism sector. turned in another superb performance unexpected global events. Tourism has played a very significant (+14%), with important markets like part in our economic recovery with Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the For next year, we need to maintain our every region of the country benefitting. Nordic region and Benelux all recording focus on those factors we can control, Commenting on the CSO Overseas really good growth. namely the quality of our offering Travel figures, Niall Gibbons, CEO of and a competitive level of value for Tourism Ireland, said: I also welcome the continued strong money. Furthermore, Fáilte Ireland performance from Britain (+11%), our will be working with the industry to “Today’s figures indicate that 2015 is largest market for overseas tourism, sustain growth in 2016 through greater set to be a record year for Irish tourism, and from our long-haul markets like emphasis on a longer season and better with more than 7.4 million people Australia, China and India (+13.5).” Also regional distribution to ensure we arriving during the January to October welcoming the positive figures, Fáilte maximise the full potential of tourism period – an increase of +12.8%, or an Ireland CEO Shaun Quinn highlighted for all regions.” additional 842,300 overseas visitors, that “having recently met with tourism when compared to 2014. I am delighted industry leaders in a series of meetings Source: around the country, I can confirm that http://www.dttas.ie/press-releases/2015/increase- to report that growth has been recorded 128-overseas-visits-shows-govt-policies-and-hard- from all of our markets around the these figures are mirrored by strong work-sector-are-paying world, with record numbers arriving local performances and a buoyant sense

North East/North West Action West Strategy Regional Implementation During the years 2008-2011, 31,600 Plan for Jobs launched as part Committee” is being put in place, jobs were lost in the region. The plan of 250million regional jobs chaired by an industry figure, to drive launched today targets employment € implementation of this plan and growth of 10-15% over and above today’s strategy identify new actions to be added over the employment levels. lifetime of the plan. Progress Reports on Employment in companies in the North implementation levels will be published The North East/North West Plan includes East / North West region supported by every six months. counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland has Monaghan and Louth. Key sectors increased by over 3,400 in the period Successful implementation of Plan targeted as part of the plan include 2011-2014 (a 13% increase). This is for Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, traditionally strong sectors for the compared to nearly 5,000 job losses in Monaghan and Louth would see creation region like agri-food, manufacturing/ EI / IDA supported companies in the of 28,000 extra jobs in the region. engineering and tourism, as well as North East/North West in the period areas targeted for future growth like 2008 - 2010 (a 16% decline). The North On Monday, 30th November 2015, the digital payments, cleantech and creative East / North West Action Plan for Jobs Government launched the North East/ services. will seek to build on the progress that North West Action Plan for Jobs, aimed has been made. (See: HYPERLINK at delivering 10-15% employment Among the 152 actions in the plan “https://www.djei.ie/en/Publications/ growth in the region over the coming to be delivered over the period APJ-NE-NW-2015-2017.html” https:// years. 2015-2017 include: www.djei.ie/en/Publications/APJ-NE- The Plan is the sixth of 8 regional jobs NW-2015-2017.html ) plans to be published over the coming Achieve an increase of at least 25% Following the successful national Action months, as part of a new €250million in the number of start-ups in the Plan for Jobs model which has supported regional jobs strategy led by the Minister region, and a 25% improvement in the the creation of 100,000 additional jobs for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, survival rate of new businesses. 21 months ahead of deadline, and in Richard Bruton TD. order to ensure that the Plan is delivered, Increase the number of IDA investments a comprehensive implementation Since the national Action Plan for Jobs in the region by 30-40% up to 2019. structure is being put in place. Deadlines was launched in early 2012 more than This will result in a minimum of 61 and lead organisations are assigned in the 20,000 extra people are at work in the additional projects for the North East/ case of each action, a “North East/North North East/North West (12% growth). North West region by 2019.

28 As part of this, IDA is delivering a Cross-border initiatives – develop 28,000 extra jobs over the coming years. range of property solutions including new cross-border initiatives, This would be 28,000 extra pay packets advance facilities in Letterkenny, including initiatives to increase coming into communities and 25,000 Sligo and Dundalk. drawdown of research and innovation lives back on track – a goal well worth funding`(targeted €16millon to benefit fighting for.” IDA will develop a value proposition 1400 businesses), greater use of the border for the North East/ North West aimed as an opportunity for companies to gain Minister for Arts, Heritage and the at securing potential “second site” their first foothold in export markets. Gaeltacht and Cavan/Monaghan TD investments from companies with large Heather Humphreys stated that “since scale existing operations in Dublin. Implementation – a comprehensive the Action Plan for Jobs was launched implementation structure is being in 2012, unemployment levels in The Local Enterprise Offices will established to ensure delivery of the plan. Cavan and Monaghan have dropped by disburse over €2.2million in grant about 30%. This new, targeted regional funding, and provide training and The levels of employment growth Action Plan will help to further drive mentoring support to over 1500 actually achieved within that range will job creation across the border region business-people per year. depend on factors including the level with a focus on boosting start-ups, of support and collaboration within increasing the level of IDA investment Create 300-500 extra jobs in Gaeltacht the local community for the Plan, and and providing better supports for local regions, supported by Udarás the level of collaboration between businesses. organisations in the region and the Establish two Regional Skills Forums main Government bodies involved in This plan will help to ensure that the to ensure the flow of critical skills to the plan. Minister Bruton believes that economic recovery is felt right across this enterprises in the region. based on all the evidence and the strong region as more and more people get back buy-in for the process up to this point to work.” Equally, Minister of State for A Regional Innovation Forum for the it is realistic to target 28,000 additional Business and Employment and Louth/ North East/North West region to help jobs in the region by 2020. East Meath TD Ged Nash emphasised support more companies to innovate “there is no doubt that this region and engage in R&D. Minister Bruton said: “Jobs are growing suffered badly in the economic crash, right across the country, but they are with unemployment rising to 16.6%. Manufacturing sector – new training growing faster in some regions than in programmes in precision engineering others. That is why we have put in place However, due to the strength of this toolmaking; new Enterprise Ireland the €250million regional jobs strategy, region’s enterprise base and the hard work initiatives to support manufacturing to support regions to play to their of its people, it has delivered one of the companies to scale and export; strengths and accelerate jobs growth in strongest performances in the country in pursue the establishment a Centre of every area. The North East/North West terms of jobs growth, with employment Excellence for Toolmaking and Design is a region which had historic problems rising by 12% since the Government’s with unemployment, but over recent Action Plan for Jobs initiative was Food sector – new regional food years thanks to the ingenuity of its launched in 2012. innovation programmes, increase workers and businesses it has performed in number of participants on Food extremely strongly. Since we launched Now we need to build on the recovery and Academy Programme, extra food the national Action Plan for Jobs in early this turnaround in economic fortunes to hubs in the region building on the 2012 over 20,000 extra people are at ensure there is further jobs growth and successful projects already in place work in the region, making it the third opportunities. I am particularly pleased fastest growing region in the country in to see the Digital Payments Cluster Tourism sector – a new Shannon-Erne employment terms. along the M1 Corridor included in this Blueway, further development of Action Plan, building on the success of initiatives around the Wild Atlantic Jobs are growing particularly rapidly companies such as PayPal, eBay, State Way and Ireland’s Ancient East. in exporting companies supported by Street, Vesta and Yapstone already my Department. However we can do established to act as a magnet to other Cleantech – explore the potential for a more, and that is why we are putting indigenous and FDI companies in this Renewable Energy Innovation Centre at in place this highly ambitious plan to sector.” Killybegs. dramatically accelerate job-creation in the region. I am convinced that with the Source: https://www.djei.ie/en/News-And-Events/ Digital Payments – IDA and Enterprise right support from Government through Department-News/2015/November/30112015.html Ireland to work with industry to the North East/North West Plan, and by https://www.djei.ie/en/News-And-Events/ progress a Digital Payments Cluster continuing the collaborative approach Department-News/2015/November/30112015. along the M1 corridor. right across the region, we can deliver html#sthash.zxC64dRD.dpuf

29 Food Wise 2025 consumers who will recognise and Increasing value added in the agri- reward Ireland’s food producers for their food, fisheries and wood products Food Wise 2025, the Report of the 2025 sustainable production and high quality sector by 70% to in excess of €13 Agri Food Strategy Committee, sets produce. billion. out a cohesive, strategic plan for the development of agri-food sector over The long-term vision as set out in the Increasing the value of Primary the next decade. The Committee has Report is of ‘Local Roots Global Reach’ Production by 65% to almost €10 identified that opportunities will arise as based on the continued development billion a result of significant population growth of the sector where efficient and and greater access to international environmentally-friendly production The creation of an additional 23,000 markets. In addition, the Committee delivers sustainable export growth on direct jobs in the agri-food sector all recognises that the increased pressure global markets. along the supply chain from primary on global agricultural resources and the production to high valued added environment will offer potential further The Committee believes that achieving product development. growth opportunity for the Irish agri- this vision will benefit primary food and fisheries sector. producers, processors and the food To achieve the projections set out above, manufacturing sector, as well as the Food Wise 2025 identifies over 350 Food Wise 2025 has harnessed the wider economy. recommendations to achieve sustainable collective wisdom, foresight and growth and these will require a concerted knowledge of leading industry On the basis of available data and by and coordinated approach by primary stakeholders and sets a course for the taking the actions identified in the producers, industry, Departments and industry of smarter greener growth Report, the Committee has set the State agencies. The Final Report of the over the next decade. It foresees a following growth projections, which it Environmental Analysis was presented sector that acts more strategically and believes are achievable by 2025: to the Minister in September. achieves a competitive critical mass in Source: the international marketplace while Increasing the value of agri-food http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/foodwise2025/ targeting more quality conscious exports by 85% to €19 billion.

30 Launch of the Designated the Construction 2020 Strategy, stated at to administer urban renewal projects was Urban Centres Grants Scheme the launch that “there is a strong correlation introduced under the 2007-2013 Regional 2014 - 2020 between healthy and vibrant urban centres Programme. This model is being retained and the creation of an attractive environment to operate the new Designated Urban and enterprise development within the Centres Grant Scheme. This ERDF co- On Monday, 27th July, 2015 the Designated wider region. Strong urban centres enable funded grants scheme seeks specifically Urban Centres Grants Scheme 2014 – their regions to realise their potential in to increase the number of integrated 2020 was launched in conjunction with attractiveness for business investment for regeneration initiatives to improve the the Southern Regional Assembly and the Foreign Direct Investment for talent and urban environment and revitalise Irish Northern and Western Regional Assembly. for tourism and to create conducive and urban areas. It makes available a new attractive locations for investment and for round of capital grant assistance for The launch, which took place at the House people to live and work in.” designated urban centres to submit capital of Waterford Crystal, set out how the projects which fit with their integrated Scheme will enable investments in Irish The Minister added “this investment in strategies to tackle the social, economic, urban centres to the order of €80 million sustainable urban development recognises environmental, climate and demographic for the period 2014-2020. It will involve our cities and towns as the engines of challenges affecting them. The objective European Regional Development Fund the regional economy. This scheme will of this Designated Urban Centres Grant (ERDF) funding of approximately €40 provide grant assistance to designated Scheme is to contribute to improvement in million and matching funding from the local authorities for urban capital projects. the development potential of Irish urban local authorities. I call on local authorities, in the designated centres by investing in, and enhancing Gateways and Hubs, to avail of this their economic, social and environmental Mr. Paudie Coffey TD, Minister of State opportunity for ERDF assistance that is conditions. at the Department of the Environment, being made available for sustainable urban Source: Community and Local Government development in their areas”. who holds Special Responsibility for http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/ PlanningDevelopment/Planning/News/MainBody,42285,en.htm Housing, Planning and Coordination of A pilot Gateways and Hubs Grants scheme

2015 Local Agenda 21 that my Department, in conjunction €180 million from EU Environmental Partnership Fund with local authorities, can assist the efforts of local communities to make Programme for Research and a real difference to their environment. Innovation ‘Horizon 2020’ On Friday, October 9th, 2015, Mr The Local Agenda 21 scheme is Alan Kelly T.D., Minister for the focussed on assisting local small scale Horizon 2020 is the current EU Environment, Community and environmental projects and 770 such framework programme for research Local Government, announced the projects will receive support from this and innovation. With a budget of successful recipients of grant funding year’s funding. I would like to thank nearly €80 billion, Horizon 2020 runs under the 2015 Local Agenda 21 these local groups and organisations Environmental Partnership Fund. This over seven years from 2014 to 2020. for their dedication to improving grant scheme promotes sustainable their communities and increasing development by assisting small scale, Horizon 2020 is the successor to environmental awareness and I non-profit environmental projects at a Framework Programme 7 (FP7) wish them every success with their local level. and is the largest ever research projects.” Projects are recommended and innovation programme in the for funding by local authorities, The projects are being co-funded by the European Union. following an open call for applications. Department and local authorities; with Funding goes to a wide range of local close to €400,000 being provided by the initiatives; including community Horizon 2020 has a simpler structure Department and a similar amount by gardens, environmental awareness than previous programmes with less the local authorities. In total €780,184 programmes, waste reduction and red tape making it easier to apply. For is being provided under this year’s biodiversity projects. general information and further details scheme, to 770 projects throughout about each of these pillars, visit the country. In addition to the funding A complete list of this year’s successful provided by the Department and http://ec.europa.eu/programmes/ projects is now available at: the local authorities, the successful horizon2020/en/ec.europa.eu/ http://www.environ.ie/en/ applicants will also contribute funds programmes/horizon2020/en/. Environment/LocalAgenda21/ raised locally, bringing the total EnvironmentalPartnershipFund shared partnership investment to Enterprise Ireland leads the National almost €1.5 million. Announcing the Source: Support Network for Horizon 2020 recipients of this year’s funding the http://www.environ.ie/en/Environment/LocalAgenda21/ consisting of National Contact Points Minister stated: “I am very pleased EnvironmentalPartnershipFund/News/MainBody,43001,en.htm and National Delegates from various

31 research and industrial development will allow some of our leading SMEs 2014-2020 (RDP) as well as addressing agencies and Departments. to become world players in areas such the priorities identified for LEADER of as medical devices, road safety and poverty reduction, social inclusion and Further information and key contacts energy.’ economic development of rural areas. It is are available at envisaged that pending the success of the http://www.hoizon2020.ie/ Minister English underlined: ‘I would pilot initiative that a call for proposals for www.horizon2020.ie. call on Irish researchers and companies a more extensive REDZ initiative under to actively respond to this growing Recent highlights include Ireland’s the LEADER elements of the RDP will take success in Leadership in Enabling opportunity from Horizon 2020.’ place during 2016. and Industrial Technologies (€60 million of total) with a portfolio of Minister Phelan stated that “this funding is Source: about community participation, boosting ICT, Nanotechnologies, Advanced http://www.environ.ie/en/Environment/Water/ materials, Biotechnology, Advanced WaterQuality/News/MainBody,43061,en.htm employment, tackling rural isolation manufacturing and processing and helping communities to identify the projects as well as substantial success issues and also the solutions. The concept in the European Research Council of a REDZ which involves supporting grants and in the Health, Energy and Over 3.7million euro for Rural communities to avail of opportunities to Agri-Food Societal Challenges. Economic Development Zone help themselves and their local areas is the essence of what a community led approach Ireland’s success comes at a time (REDZ) pilot projects to rural development is all about. when the EU Institutions have just announced agreement on the 2016 On Tuesday, September 29th, 2015, budget, boosting investment in Ann Phelan, TD Minister of State for Rural communities know best what they competitiveness, jobs and growth. Rural Affairs announced €3,758,479 in require and I hope that this pilot will A budget of €10 billion has been funding for the REDZ pilot scheme. A provide much needed resources to some of allocated to Horizon 2020 (up 11.6% Rural Economic Development Zone is the REDZ community’s throughout Ireland from 2015). described as a functional rather than to further the economic development of administrative geographic area that reflect their areas and I hope that the learning This will contribute to increasing the spatial patterns of local economic from this pilot will inform thinking as the competitiveness in the EU through activities and development processes, economy continues to recover. research and innovation. i.e. they are the sub-county zones within which most people live and work. Research The quality of the applications and level of On Thursday, November 26th, 2015, interest in the pilot scheme was such that I Mr. Damien English TD, Minister surrounding this element of the CEDRA for Skills, Research & Innovation, report identified potential REDZ in all have made additional funding available so announced Ireland’s latest successes in areas of Ireland and recommended the that each qualifying project will be offered Horizon 2020, the EU Programme for implementation of a pilot initiative that at least 50% of the funding they applied Research and Innovation (2014-2020) supports the formulation of a localised for. I am happy to announce that 26 pilot with a budget of approximately €80 strategic approach to the development of projects, rather than the original 18, on billion. REDZ. a regional basis and at different levels of scale will receive 100% of the funding In welcoming the success the Minister This pilot is a result of the work of applied for and the 25 remaining projects stated: ‘I would like to congratulate the Commission for the Economic that qualified will be offered 50% of the researchers from academia and Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA) funding applied for. I have no doubt, that industry in Ireland who have secured which was published in April 2014. The these projects will make a real difference in this prestigious funding. report identified the need to take a more the lives of many rural communities. Irish Researchers are punching above tailored approach to planning at both a their weight & continue to excel at regional and local level and recognised that I am confident that these resources coupled winning competitive funding against this approach should not be restricted by with the €30million for the rural towns the Europe’s best researchers. current administrative boundaries. and villages renewal scheme announced yesterday are just the beginning of a ‘Since the beginning of the programme This report demonstrates a clear beneficial process of rural renewal regeneration over 440 applicants from Ireland relationship between towns and the and I look forward to hearing about and have secured almost €180 million of surrounding rural areas which reflect visiting many of the projects as they come funding for research and innovation Ireland’s actual economic geography, as to fruition.” projects. well as identifying potential REDZ in all In particular I welcome the strong areas of Ireland. The aims and objectives of performance by Irish companies in Source: the REDZ pilot compliment the objectives winning €53 million (of the total http://www.environ.ie/en/Community/ funding secured). This level of funding of the Rural Development Programme RuralDevelopment/News/MainBody,42830,en.htm

32 Publication of the EPA Drinking €30m investment package for rural Village/Town Renewal Scheme Water Report 2014 Ireland • The Government is keenly aware of the impact the economic downturn has had Mr. Alan Kelly T.D., Minister for the On Wednesday, September 23rd, 2015, on towns and villages throughout Ireland Environment, Community and Local Minister Alan Kelly and Minister Ann Phelan and is committed to addressing this in a Government, today (15 October 2015) reaffirmed the Government’s commitment proactive way. to rural Ireland with the announcement welcomed the timely publication of the • Research conducted by the Commission Environmental Protection Agency’s of a new €30m investment in rural towns for the Economic Development of ‘Drinking Water Report 2014’. The report and villages. The new scheme will support Rural Areas (CEDRA) has shown that provides an overview of the quality of the revitalisation of rural towns and villages drinking water in Ireland during 2014 and with the aim of improving the living and rural towns have felt the impact of the covers both public and private drinking working environment in rural communities economic downturn more acutely than water supplies. 2014 was the first full year and enhancing their potential to support cities and larger urban centres. in which Irish Water was responsible for increased economic activity into the future. • It is critical for the future sustainable the management and operation of public development of the country as a whole drinking water supplies. The report sets out Minister for the Environment, Community that all areas of the country are in a the details of over 236,000 drinking water and Local Government, Alan Kelly T.D. stated position to avail of the opportunities monitoring results carried out by Irish Water “we recognise all too well the contribution that will present themselves as Ireland and the local authorities during the year. The that rural communities have made to overall continues to recover. report also includes details of the Agency’s national economic development, as well as to • The new scheme to support Town and the development of their own local areas. enforcement activities during 2014. The Village renewal is proposed as part report highlights the general good standard of a concerted effort to support the of drinking water that is in place for the vast Rural areas make a significant contribution to the production of the natural resources and development of rural towns and villages majority of public water supplies in Ireland. not only as a component of a broader In 2014, over 99.4% of drinking water activities which drive significant elements approach to rural development but also samples from public supplies complied with of national economic life such as through to improve the environment of rural the microbiological and chemical parameters agriculture, food, tourism, construction set out in the Drinking Water Regulations. materials and energy, to mention but a few. dwellers in a way that will increase their Developing and maintaining a vibrant rural quality of life and simultaneously support The EPA’s report acknowledges the very economy is therefore, of major national potential economic activity in their area. significant advances made in reducing the importance as well as of particular interest • The initiative will be channelled through number of consumers on boil water notices. to the significant communities involved. the Local Authorities with oversight by While there were more than 27,000 people Rural Ireland will not be abandoned by the Local Community Development affected by boil notices at the end of 2014, it is this Government. The Government is Committees. heartening to note that the number affected committed to implementing a strategy for • In line with a more sustainable approach rural regeneration on the basis of an inclusive by boil notices as of today has been reduced to development and in order to ensure approach to sustainable development, the to 6,000. The report however also draws ownership by local communities attention to shortcomings in a number of integration of policies, a regional dimension and partnership with the rural community.” participation by communities and areas in the quality of Ireland’s drinking water relevant local stakeholders will be due to historic under-investment over many Minster of State for Rural Economic required. years and points to the scale of investment Development Ann Phelan T.D. outlined the and actions that will be needed to ensure Government’s vision of rural Ireland. Aims and Objectives of the Scheme that households, businesses, agriculture The central aim of the scheme is to support and industry have clean and wholesome Minister Phelan outlined broadly the focus of the revitalisation of towns/villages in drinking water into the future. the scheme: “the central aim of the scheme is to support the revitalisation of our towns and order to improve the living and working The report notes that as these challenges are villages in order to improve the living and environment of their communities and tackled, Irish Water’s capability for enhanced working environment of their communities increase their potential to support increased asset management and increased capital and increase their potential to support economic activity into the future. investment is to be regarded as a significant increased economic activity into the future. The scheme will work through a call for opportunity to improve service delivery and To this end the scheme will, among other proposals that would be subject to appropriate resolve historic water quality issues.“The things, seek to increase the attractiveness criteria and evaluation to maximise impact provision of safe and reliable water supplies and sustainability of our towns and villages and real and lasting benefits for rural is essential for a modern country”, said the as places to live and work. It will build upon communities and DECLG will work with Minister, “and this report provides a timely other programmes the Government will be the relevant stakeholders in drawing up the and objective assessment of the achievements supporting in the years to come, such as my terms of the scheme. The types of projects to date and the challenges ahead”. Department’s LEADER Programme, which will also see some €250m invested in rural to be funded under this initiative would See www.epa.ie for full report. Ireland.” primarily be a matter for the LA taking on

33 board the national scheme and criteria and infrastructural deficits and land assembly • Regeneration/repurposing of vacant/ working up proposals in partnership with issues that may be currently inhibiting disused sites; and their communities, however the overall planned development projects and • Other small-scale actions. intention of the funding would be to: investment within towns and villages. Development Enabling Projects • increase the attractiveness of rural towns Eligible Activities Our local authorities are best placed to tackle and villages as places to live and work, The focus for improvements eligible under the particular local issues that are hampering • promote their position as local commercial this scheme will extend to the enhancement new housing and commercial development and social centres and thereby increase of smaller towns and villages. Actions will be in our towns. They can utilise their statutory their sustainability as places in which aimed at enhancing the environment and functions, local knowledge and technical to live and work; and stem the loss of amenities of smaller towns and villages and to know-how in a structured way to pro-actively shopping and other facilities to the larger tackle structural aspects of these communities renew small towns and villages and attract urban centres; and together with complementary measures residents and businesses back into this vital • promote the towns and villages as centres supported under initiatives such as LEADER part of our economy and society. for culture and local heritage, including to deliver real improvements for rural The kinds of initiatives that would qualify for the further development of our designated communities in relation to: funding support would include: heritage towns, and thus enhance the sense of identity not only physically but • Greenways, cycleways, blueways and • Small scale site acquisition for also socially, other environmental improvement assemblyre-organisation and subsequent • enhance the local environment and initiatives that support economic activity redevelopment; amenities in the interests of residents, in the area; • Remedial works; and businesses, visitors and the promotion of • Environmental upgrading, • Enhancement of access and site tourism; e.g. upgrading parks, civic areas, river infrastructure. • promote more sustainable development walks etc. patterns; and • Access facilities to amenities; Source: • enable local authorities to work with • Public utilities such as street lighting etc. http://www.environ.ie/en/Community/RuralDevelopment/News/ local communities in tackling minor • Renovation of relevant derelict buildings; MainBody,42790,en.htm

34 Government Agrees Local Government has decided that no local portion of that additional funding for their Property Tax Allocations for 2016 authority will be worse off in 2016 compared own discretionary purposes as part of their to 2015. normal budgetary process. In early September the Government agreed the Local Property Tax (LTP) Allocations for Similarly, the Government is also very aware That portion will be an amount equal to 2016; 80% of LPT will be retained locally of the fact that people living in certain local 20% of the total expected LPT income to fund vital public services in 2016. The authority areas, particularly our large cities, for each local authority (before any remaining 20% will be re-distributed to will pay proportionately more LPT due to decision to vary rates) or alternatively the provide top-up funding to certain local the amount of property tax paid in these full amount of the additional funding authority areas that have lower property tax areas. where that is less than the value of 20% bases due to the variance in property values of LPT income. Local authority elected across the State. The Government has therefore decided that, members have been given the power in the same manner as was agreed in 2015, to decide whether or not to increase Given that local authorities vary local authorities who stand to receive more or decrease LPT rates by up to 15% for significantly from one another in terms of income in 2016 from LPT than they received 2016 and must inform the Revenue size, population, public service demands, previously from the Local Government Commissioners of their intentions by infrastructure and income sources, the Fund in 2014, will be entitled to use a certain the 30th of September. Table A: Authorities requiring Equalisation Funding Provisional 2016 Retained Locally Contribution Total LPT Funding to Value of Full LPT LPT Allocation for (80%) from Equalisation be Provided in 2016 Increase/Reduction 15% Local Authorities Fund (before any local variation of base rate)

€’m €’m €’m €’m Carlow 3.08 2.27 5.35 0.58 Cavan 3.44 5.02 8.46 0.65 Donegal 8.47 14.25 22.7 21.59 Galway 11. 4 4 1.06 12.51 2.15 Kilkenny 5.84 3.51 9.36 1.10 Laois 3.83 3.80 7.63 0.72 Leitrim 1.67 6.62 8.28 0.31 Limerick (Unified) 12.28 2.35 14.63 2.30 Longford 1.65 6.47 8.12 0.31 Louth 7.34 0.90 8.24 1.38 Mayo 8.17 9.32 17.49 1.53 Monaghan 2.97 7.28 10.25 0.56 Offaly 3.83 2.83 6.66 0.72 Roscommon 3.12 5.99 9 .11 0.58 Sligo 4.13 5.86 9.99 0.77 Tipperary (Unified) 9.27 14.05 23.32 1.74 Waterford (Unified) 7.28 9.24 16.52 1.37 Westmeath 5.00 5 .11 10.12 0.94 Wexford 9.48 2.41 11.89 1.78 Sub Total - 112.31 108.34 220.65 21.06 Authorities requiring Equalisation Funding

35 Table B: Local Authorities in Surplus

Total LPT Amount to Value of Full 2015 Local Maximum additional Funding to be be Retained LPT increase/ Adjustment payment for loss of Provided in 2016 by Local Reduction 15% Factor discretionary element (before any local Authorities Variation for Surplus LA’s for variation of base in Surplus Percentage 2016 compared to rate) Position (20% 2015 of LPT Yield)

Cork City 8.56 0.02 1.61 -10.0% 0.52

Kerry 11.11 0.06 2.08 0.0% 0.55

Clare 7.89 1.97 1.48 -15.0% 0.03

Cork County 31.87 7.97 5.98 -10.0% 0.20

DL 40.59 10.15 7.61 -15.0% 0.14 Rathdown

Dublin City 62.04 15.51 11.63 -15.0% 0.26

Fingal 29.81 7.45 5.59 -15.0% 0.09

Galway City 6.38 1.59 1.20 0.0% 0.08

Kildare 16.86 4.22 3.16 -7.5% 0.14

Meath 13.64 3.41 2.56 0.0% 0.18

South Dublin 24.51 6.13 4.60 -15.0% 0.10

Wicklow 13.30 3.32 2.49 -15.0% 0.05

Sub Total 266.56 61.80 49.98 2.34 Authorities in Surplus Position

Minister Alan Kelly, T.D, Minister for the He further added that “the Government has members vote for it or alternatively to Environment, Community and Local provided certainty in relation to top-ups for increase the level of public services that they Government, stated that “these measures those local authorities with lower property tax are providing. will provide certainty and balance to the bases. Nineteen local authorities will benefit finances of local Government and give from top-ups from the equalisation fund. The Local Property Tax is designed to councillors a greater say in how their become a stable and sustainable source of authorities are funded, ensuring 80% of LPT These measures are necessary to create funding and will enable local authorities to is spent locally. a balanced system of funding across become more self-sufficient in terms of their local authorities. Similarly, we have also funding. This will provide Government All local authorities will be funded to their recognised the contribution made by other with more options in terms of other 2015 levels. While local authority members local authorities with property bases with taxation and expenditure policies in our have full discretion over whether to reduce greater values by providing additional future budgets.” or increase the local LPT rate, I would discretionary income for them. This will ask them to be mindful of certain vital allow local authorities where property tax Source: local services that could benefit from that levels are highest to implement a full 15% http://www.environ.ie/en/LocalGovernment/ LocalGovernmentAdministration/News/MainBody,42633,en.htm funding such as homelessness services.” reduction of the LPT should the elected

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37 Tralee and Lismore named Fáilte Ireland to promote those Irish towns both old and new. Accepting the award on ‘Ireland’s Top Tourism Towns’ and villages which are working hardest to behalf of Tralee, Kieran Ruttledge, Tralee enhance their appeal to tourists visiting their Chamber Alliance and Tralee Tidy Towns, Tralee picked up the top prize as Ireland’s best local area. As the overall winners, Tralee and said: “Tralee is delighted with this vote National Large Tourism Town while Lismore Lismore received its winning certificate along of confidence in our collaborative efforts came out on top in the National Small with a €5,000 grant each towards further towards the development of a top class, Tourism Town category. Tralee and Lismore developing itself as a tourism destination. sustainable tourism destination following were chosen from a shortlist of ten top Aside from today’s two top winners, on from gold medal success and improved tourism towns, with the remaining towns all eight other high performing towns were performance in the National Tidy Towns receiving certificates of merit to acknowledge commended for their work: 2015 and a double gold medal award in their own impressive performances in the Entente Florale in 2014. The Tourism reaching out to visitors and creating the best Fourth annual Tourism Towns Competition has been the catalyst for possible tourism experiences. Fáilte Ireland, Towns Awards further community involvement in tourism the national tourism development authority, Best Large Towns – Highly Commended initiatives like the tourist information kiosk was established in 2003 to guide and promote Cobh, Co. Cork staffed by volunteers, the Blennerville tourism as a leading indigenous component Killarney, Co Kerry Windmill and Tralee-Dingle Model Railway of the Irish economy. The tourism and Kilkenny, Co Kilkenny projects. In Kerry, tourism is everybody’s hospitality industry employs an estimated business and in Tralee almost 1,000 people 185,000 people and generates almost €5.7 Best Small Town – Highly Commended are now directly employed in tourism related billion in revenue a year. Ardmore, Co Waterford enterprises. Collaboration between the Adare, Co Limerick local community, business sector and local Tourism Town Awards – what are the Clonakilty, Co Cork authority is the key to success and Tralee is a judges looking for? Kenmare, Co Kerry shining example of this approach”. The Tourism Town Award focuses on how Sneem, Co Kerry For Lismore, the judges noted: “They say participating towns have developed their local Lismore is where the past is present and area in the following key tourism areas: In the run—up to today’s awards, a team of mystery shoppers visited each town to that’s true. Beautifully maintained, compact, the visitor can step back in time with all the How the town tells its own measure their tourism performance and the Sense of Place – necessary modern facilities and services unique story to visitors, what’s special about it, level of welcome to visitors. within easy reach.” They also highlighted the and what distinguishes it from other towns. Speaking today Fáilte Ireland’s Director lush and historic surroundings - all within How the local Local Involvement - of Strategic Development, Orla Carroll, walking distance – which are a particular community works together to provide an welcomed the announcement of the 2015 selling point for visitors who can enjoy the authentic visitor experience. winners: “This awards scheme, now in its local culture, crafts and history or just enjoy What the Tourism Products Available – fourth year, is not all about recognising those the tranquillity of the nearby parks and town has to offer visitors. towns that do the best from tourism but walks, all wrapped in the river and historical Development and promotion of the rather those that do their best for tourism. walls, monuments and churches. town – How the town takes a unified Today we celebrate Irish towns and villages approach to marketing and developing the that have really embraced tourism and where Delighted to accept the Best Small Tourism town into a “tourism town”. all sectors – and not just the local tourism Town, Mary O’Brien, Secretary - Lismore interests – have supported the strengthening Tidy Towns, commented: “The people of Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, of their local welcome. All the towns involved Lismore are thrilled to have been chosen as Michael Ring TD and Fáilte Ireland in this year’s competition have demonstrated a Top Tourism Town. It means a lot to the on Wednesday, 25th November 2015, what you can achieve when you demonstrate town of Lismore and will impact on tourism announced that Tralee, County Kerry and ‘pride of place’. Their commitment to and business in the year ahead. Lismore has Lismore, County Waterford, have been their local area not only contributes to the a great sense of community and pride of crowned winners at the fourth annual sustained growth of Irish tourism, it is also place amongst the businesses, residents and Tourism Towns Awards which took place a central part in the ‘tourism towns’ spirit the many voluntary groups. The people of in The Morrison Hotel, in Dublin. Minister which ultimately turns a good holiday into the town are constantly looking for ways to Ring congratulated Tralee and Lismore “on an unforgettable experience.” make the tourism experience as inclusive what is a wonderful achievement and worthy as possible and to encourage exploration of recognition for all that they have done With regard to the overall winners, the Lismore town and the general West Waterford to welcome visitors to their towns. These judges’ first impression of Tralee was that area. Bundling and joint marketing of the awards are all about honoring the towns it had something unique to offer visitors. town’s product offering has been a major that put tourism at the centre of what they The judges particularly noted that: “The part of the focus here which highlights the do and both winners really impressed, with impression you get when you arrive in Tralee diversity of the offering from heritage and their local communities pulling together for is more than just a country town but rather festivals to food producers, craft workers, the greater good of their town. The people it has a very special offering with a whole walks, outdoor activities and gardens.” of Tralee and Lismore truly understand world of things to do for visitors.” They also tourism and value their visitors. Ultimately, highlighted the many beautiful buildings Source: this shows in the quality of what they have and shops, taking particular note of how http://www.dttas.ie/press-releases/2015/minister-ring-congratulates- to offer and in the warmth of their welcome.” the town centre offered colour, flowers, tralee-and-lismore-being-named-%E2%80%98ireland The Tourism Towns Award was designed by well maintained shop and business fronts, %E2%80%99s-top

38 Wishing you a Happy Christmas and a Healthy, Happy and Prosperous 2016 for you and your families.

39 To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the IPA’s Administration Yearbook & Diary it has been rebranded as Ireland - A Directory 2016.

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40