Vol. 587 Tuesday, No. 2 15 June 2004

DI´OSPO´ IREACHTAI´ PARLAIMINTE PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES

DA´ IL E´ IREANN

TUAIRISC OIFIGIU´ IL—Neamhcheartaithe (OFFICIAL REPORT—Unrevised)

Tuesday, 15 June 2004.

Ceisteanna—Questions Taoiseach ………………………………… 229 Minister for Social and Family Affairs Priority Questions …………………………… 243 Other Questions …………………………… 256 Adjournment Debate Matters …………………………… 265 Leaders’ Questions ……………………………… 266 Requests to move Adjournment of Da´il under Standing Order 31 ……………… 274 Order of Business ……………………………… 275 Ministerial Rota for Parliamentary Questions: Motion ………………… 282 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Bill 2004 [Seanad]: Second Stage …………… 282 Private Members’ Business Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: Motion ………………………… 310 Adjournment Debate Hospital Services ……………………………… 338 Community Support Services ………………………… 340 Accident and Emergency Services ……………………… 343 Rural Transport Services …………………………… 346 Questions: Written Answers …………………………… 349 229 230

DA´ IL E´ IREANN The Taoiseach: I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 7, inclusive, together. ———— My Department has responsibility for overall co-ordination and promotion of the modernis- De´ Ma´irt, 15 Meitheamh 2004. ation programme for the Civil Service through Tuesday, 15 June 2004. the implementation group of Secretaries General which is chaired by the Secretary General of my ———— Department. A number of sub-groups oversee progress in the different strands of the modernis- Chuaigh an Ceann Comhairle i gceannas ar ation programme and these initiatives are taken 2.30 p.m. forward in close collaboration between my Department and the Department of Finance. ———— I am pleased to note that significant progress continues to be recorded with the modernisation Paidir. programme and, in particular, with the commit- Prayer. ments to modernisation included in Sustaining Progress. A progress report on implementation of ———— the these commitments across the Civil Service was submitted to the Civil Service performance Ceisteanna — Questions. verification group prior to the pay increases granted last January and this report has been ———— published on the Department of Finance website. A further progress report will be considered by Public Service Modernisation. the PVG in advance of the payment due on 1 July next and it is also intended to publish this. These 1. Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach if he will reports record progress across a wide range of report on recent progress on the implementation areas including, for example, more use of com- of the recommendations of the OECD report on petitive promotions and greater open recruitment regulatory reform; and if he will make a state- of staff, development of new financial infor- ment on the matter. [15401/04] mation systems and a recent evaluation of the 2. Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the progress performance management and development sys- made by the quality customer service working tem in the Civil Service. group within his Department established under The quality customer service initiative is the strategic management initiative; and if he will another aspect of the modernisation programme make a statement on the matter. [15406/04] and good progress in this area continues to be made under the guidance of the working group 3. Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach if he will chaired by Mr. Frank Daly, chairman of the Rev- report on progress on the implementation of enue Commissioners. The most significant recent those aspects of the strategic management initiat- development has been the customer charter ive which are the responsibility of his Depart- initiative. Following the publication of guidelines ment; and if he will make a statement on the mat- by the working group, many Departments and ter. [15414/04] offices have already published their charters, with 4. Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach the pro- the remainder scheduled to do so within the com- gress made to date with regard to the implemen- ing months. Departments and offices were tation of the OECD report on regulatory reform; required to consult their customers and establish and if he will make a statement on the matter. service standards in their charter based on cus- [16323/04] tomer needs. They will also be required to report on performance against these standards in their 5. Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach the pro- annual report. The working group organised gress to date with regard to those areas of the training and other supports to assist Departments SMI for which his Department is responsible and and offices during the preparation of their char- the quality customer service working group ters and will continue to monitor progress. within his Department established under the Other projects overseen by the working group SMI; and if he will make a statement on the mat- in the recent past include publication of a report ter. [16324/04] on internal customer service in January 2004 and identifying projects from across the public service 6. Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in asked the Taoiseach if he will report on his Department’s implemen- that demonstrate innovative approaches to tation of the recommendations of the OECD improving the quality of service and admin- report on regulatory reform; and if he will make istration. These will be show-cased at events in a statement on the matter. [16345/04] Dublin, Limerick and Cork during July. With regard to better regulation, which is also 7. Mr. Sargent asked the Taoiseach if he will specifically raised by a number of Deputies, con- report on progress in implementing the OECD’s siderable progress has been achieved since the report on regulatory reform; and if he will make publication of the OECD report on regulatory a statement on the matter. [16443/04] reform in Ireland. Many of the recommendations 231 Ceisteanna — 15 June 2004. Questions 232

[The Taoiseach.] After seven years, it appears as if some Depart- related to specific sectoral issues and progress in ments are quite lax in this regard. Does he agree this regard was recorded in a report published by with her comments? the high level group on regulation in January In respect of OECD regulatory reform, an 2003. A central element of the Government’s issue raised on numerous occasions, will the Taoi- response to the OECD report was the formula- seach outline what progress, if any, has been tion of a White Paper on better regulation. As made on removing the barrier of entry into the the Deputy may be aware, I launched the White Irish market facing foreign educated pharma- Paper in January 2004 and copies are available in cists? This is causing a deal of controversy. the Oireachtas Library. Will the Taoiseach comment on a recent report The White Paper sets out six core principles from IBEC which found that in 2004, three years of better regulation and a detailed action plan to after the publication of the OECD report, red translate these principles into how we design, tape is costing Irish business \600 million per implement and review legislation and regulations. year? This backs up earlier claims by ISME, Key actions include introduction of regulatory which stated in its report that the Government is impact analysis, RIA, initially on a pilot basis; seen as a barrier to progress rather than a facilit- new systematic reviews of existing regulations in ator of enterprise. Will the Taoiseach comment key areas; improvements to our approach to sec- on these reports? toral regulation; a renewed drive to tackle red tape; and greater clarity and accessibility of regu- The Taoiseach: With regard to the first issue lation. A new better regulation group is being and the Ta´naiste’s remarks, the OECD report is established to oversee implementation of the being implemented and I have given a detailed actions outlined in the White Paper, and I hope reply on where this is being done. Deregulation it will meet within the coming weeks. and regulation are not always the same issue. Another important action arising from the Regulation results in additional costs for business White Paper is a programme of Statute Law but, in many cases, it is necessary. The OECD, revision to identify legislation in need of repeal, working group and cross-departmental group revision or consolidation. This will ensure the have all pointed in recent years to the areas in Statute Book is up to date and more accessible. which there should be change and others where A key element of this programme is a project to update pre-1922 legislation and, as the first phase, perhaps regulation is strengthened. a consultation process is under way on the list of IBEC and ISME tend to take the view that legislation proposed for repeal. As already stated, regulation is unnecessary. They find everything a another key action in the White Paper is the burden, but it is necessary to have regulation. For development of a system of regulatory impact example, people are calling for more health and analysis as recommended by the OECD. A work- safety regulation and compliance. We are not in ing group of officials has developed an approach a position where we are trying to get rid of all to RIA which would be suitable for the Irish regulation. The Cabinet has just finalised a health legislative and policy making context. It is and safety Bill, which will introduce more regu- intended to pilot this shortly in a number of lation, but it is necessary to do that, while we are Departments. trying to eliminate these issues in other areas. Overall, good progress has been achieved in With regard to pharmacies, the pharmacy implementing the change and modernisation review group was set up following the OECD agenda in the Civil Service. As I have already report on regulatory reform. It was asked to stated, this is extensively documented through the review the 1996 pharmacy regulations and, performance verification process established among other matters, the pharmacy issues raised under the Sustaining Progress agreement. As well in the report. The group’s principal task was to as verifying progress in the Civil Service as a assess the existing statutory restrictions on entry whole, each Department and office submits pro- to the community pharmacy sector that placed gress reports and these demonstrate that con- restrictions on access to pharmacy contracts siderable advances continue to be achieved at under the 1996 regulations. The group submitted local level, leading to continued improvements in its report early last year. the quality and efficiency of services provided to The Minister for Health and Children has the public. examined the legal and other issues surrounding the group’s recommendations and the report will Mr. Kenny: I see an unusually large attendance be published shortly. He has stated he intends to of backbenchers to listen to the Taoiseach today. consolidate and update existing pharmacy legis- Obviously the word is out. lation. Broadly, the proposed Bill will provide for the safe and effective delivery of pharmaceutical Mr. O’Connor: We are always here. services to all citizens through a comprehensive, manageable and robust legislative framework. It Mr. Kenny: I suppose it is back to reality with will address, in particular, the education, training, a bang. Has the Taoiseach taken note of the registration and control of pharmacists and it will Ta´naiste’s post-election comments about the incorporate the recommendations of the phar- necessity to speed up the process of deregulation? macy review group. 233 Ceisteanna — 15 June 2004. Questions 234

Mr. Kenny: The Taoiseach did not comment on Mr. Rabbitte: Was the Taoiseach’s attention IBEC’s statement that red tape is costing busi- drawn to a recent speech by the chairman of nesses \600 million per year. Independent News Media, Dr. Tony O’Reilly, The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law about over-regulation and excessive red tape Reform has received the steering group’s report being a cost on business, possibly to the extent to Government on the review of the Garda’s that it is detrimental to employment? Does the structures and organisation. Has the Cabinet dis- Taoiseach agree with those views? cussed it? Does the Taoiseach accept a recom- mendation in the report that the closure of some The Taoiseach: As I said, the idea of the Garda stations in Dublin and throughout the OECD report was that Ireland would take a lead country should proceed? In light of that and the on this issue. At that stage only one other country Government’s failure to deliver on its promise of had prepared a paper on better regulation so we 2,000 extra gardaı´, will there be a reduction in the were in front in looking at how better regulation number of gardaı´ following the implementation can make the process more cost-effective and of the report? simpler. It does not mean that we remove all regulation, and business interests continually An Ceann Comhairle: A detailed question to make that point. We are trying to operate better the Minister might be more appropriate. regulations and, as I said, there is a new group to take forward the next phase of the White Paper. Mr. Kenny: I know the Chair will be more leni- ent than before the break. We set out our views in the White Paper. The questions raised by the chairman of Inde- An Ceann Comhairle: The Chair will pendent News and Media and others are exactly implement Standing Orders as decided by the the questions highlighted in the White Paper. I House. am glad the White Paper is generating interest in so many areas, not just among business groups. Mr. Kenny: Perhaps it might not always be The questions raised are, is regulation necessary, from this quarter that verbal fire is directed at is regulation properly targeted and framed appro- the Chair. priately, have we consulted stakeholders, is there Will the SMI report on the structure and organ- an effective appeals process and will the regu- isation of the Garda be published and the infor- lations give rise to conflicts and anomalies. Those mation and recommendations contained in it are the questions posed, and the chairman of made available to the public? Independent News and Media and others have said that we should try to simplify the mechan- The Taoiseach: I thought I answered the ques- isms which are in place and, in so far as possible, tion on IBEC. Business interests tend to take the we should only use regulation where it is absol- view that regulation with which they must comply utely proven to stand up to the questions I men- is a burden on them. The ISME and IBEC tioned. That is a fair approach by those interests. reports pointed out that for every eight people Deputy Kenny asked about costs. It has been employed by small businesses, half of one per- stated that any cost involved in regulation is a son’s time is taken up by this. That is how they cost too much, but I do not agree with that view. use the cost base. They are included in all regu- It is necessary to have regulation in some areas lations. Where we can get rid of red tape and and that business comply with regulation. regulations we should do so, but there are other areas which should be regulated. Mr. Rabbitte: The Ta´naiste mentioned the Those organisations cannot take a simple need to take hard decisions and she referred analysis. I have no disagreement with their stated specifically to different aspects of the OECD position on getting rid of unnecessary red tape, recommendations. Does the Taoiseach agree with but not in a broad sweep. It would be wrong to her that the Government ought to proceed to get rid of all requirements in terms of statutory take those hard decisions or does he take a differ- reports from the CSO or the Department of ent view? Enterprise, Trade and Employment. That would be wrong and I do not agree with the broad- brush statement. The Taoiseach: The Government makes hard The issue of the gardaı´ does not come under and easy decisions. It makes whatever decisions the Civil Service process. The Government has are necessary. The Government has been, and stated that the 2003 levels would be maintained, will be, engaged in reforms in many areas. We that recruitment and training would stay at those have ongoing discussions on transport, health, levels, and that when finances returned to the reform of the issues mentioned, including the position at which we put a ceiling on that level OECD reform which affects the Civil Service. we would return to that issue. We said those lev- These are issues in which the Government is, and els would not decrease in the meantime and that will continue to be, actively engaged and which was the position. The Deputy should take the were outlined in Sustaining Progress. These are reports issue up with the Minister but it does not areas in which we will continue to make come under regulatory reform. decisions, as necessary. 235 Ceisteanna — 15 June 2004. Questions 236

Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in: In the Government’s other side of the OECD report on regulatory White Paper on better regulation there is a list of reform which cited a criticism of the Government actions relating to the legislative process and one in not allowing consumer interests to be properly calls for better information on new legislation. It represented in policy debate and deliberation. promises that Departments and offices will pro- Will the Taoiseach inform the House whether the vide such improved information, including the Government is reflecting on that criticism and if draft heads of new and promised legislation. I it will act on it by providing for representation of have asked the Taoiseach this question before consumer groups or the Consumers’ Association and I am revisiting it despite the assurance that of Ireland in the social partnership process? this would happen. On how many Bills did we In regard to regulatory reform being a key part receive advance notice of heads of the Bill follow- of the Lisbon Agenda, will the Taoiseach inform ing agreement? Unless the Taoiseach’s infor- the House whether he is taking on board the mation runs contrary to mine, why has this com- views of the Institute of European Affairs which mitment not been proceeded with and praised the Government on one hand, but, on the implemented? other, cited this country as one of those least wil- I will not go back over past legislation but will ling to improve in terms of sustainable develop- take a Bill which will be taken in the future, and ment and social protection? Will he assure perhaps the Taoiseach will give us a commitment Members that the reforms to Ireland’s regulatory rather than revisit the reason this commitment regime will not produce further deterioration in has not been acted on heretofore. In regard to the areas of sustainable development and social the proposed health Bill which will deal with the protection? Is that an assurance he give in terms implementation of the Hanly report, will the of a “Yes” or “No” answer? Taoiseach give us a commitment on whether and how soon we will see the published heads of that The Taoiseach: The answer to the Deputy’s Bill, in line with the recommendations and com- second question is “Yes”. It is necessary to try to mitment detailed in the Government’s White ensure, as I said as the outset, that when we need Paper on regulatory reform? to make changes, it is done by way of regulation, not deregulation. We are trying to simplify mat- The Taoiseach: In the case of some legislation, ters and, where protections are needed, it is it is necessary to circulate the heads of the Bill important to ensure that social protections are for discussion, but on amending or consolidating included. In the area of environmental matters, legislation, there is not the same requirement. sustainable development is the key issue. What is recommended in the OECD report and Regarding the Deputy’s first question, he by the various groups I mentioned in the reply is raised that issue with me last year when I answ- that when legislation is being prepared the State ered a similar question on customer quality and Departments should see whether legislation groups and consumer interest. I said at that time is absolutely necessary and if it is the only way to that we would consider that proposal. We have go, that we should not legislate if it is unnecessary now included groups from the Consumers’ and is just another burden. If, however, legis- Association of Ireland and the Small Firms lation is necessary, we should have discussion Association, and representatives of the Disability with the stakeholders, the organisations, and that Federation, the National Disability Authority and happens on a regular basis. When legislation is the National and Consultative Committee on announced, those affected will make their obser- Racism and Interculturalism. The Consumers’ vations known, look for meetings and engage in Association of Ireland is also represented on the the lobbying process. That happens as a matter main departmental group. Therefore, represen- of form. The report states that it should perhaps tation of the consumer group is included in the happen at an earlier stage and that it should not membership of key central group driving this be left until the legislation is almost drafted. process. Departments are now advised to do that, partic- ularly in regard to new legislation and new con- Mr. J. Higgins: Will the Taoiseach agree that cepts. The high level group will monitor that to regulatory reform is in reality a codename for, make sure it is done. In some cases, heads of Bills among other matters, the wholesale privatisation are brought before committees of this House for of crucial public services such as electricity, gas, debate. airports and so on? Where stands the Govern- In regard to health, all the health reports and ment on the thrust towards privatisation follow- reports on reform set out what should happen in ing the message from the electorate on 11 June? the future. The new health Bill will be based on In the past 24 hours we have heard Ministers who what is in those reports. That information is in normally assume quite a bullish demeanour—— the public domain. The Minister will draft the legislation based on the suggestions in those four An Ceann Comhairle: The Deputy should ask or five reports and he is working on that at a question. present. Mr. J. Higgins: ——metamorphose into sim- Mr. Sargent: The Taoiseach gave us a partial pering pussycats, full of social concern and empa- answer in some ways. I wish to ask about the thy. I detected even a slight tremor on the lower 237 Ceisteanna — 15 June 2004. Questions 238 lip of some of them. Where does that stand beside Better regulation does not necessarily mean the strident demands of the Ta´naiste who, as deregulation. In some cases consumers, investors Fianna Fa´il heads have rolled throughout the and the broader public interest might best be country, like a latter-day Madame Defarge, wants served by introducing new regulation. I have to knit even faster—— made that point clear in answer to a number of questions. Other cases, however, may be served An Ceann Comhairle: Has the Deputy a ques- best by removing regulation. Deregulation means tion? He will appreciate that this is Taoiseach’s the partial or complete elimination of regulation Question Time. in a sector to improve economic performance. As such, it can be regarded as a sub-set of better Mr. J. Higgins: ——and speed up the tumbrils? regulations and one option that can be taken in The Ta´naiste wants to hasten more public ser- practice. vices to the privatisation guillotine, close more It is widely recognised that better regulation accident and emergency units and leave a demands a more sophisticated approach and the scorched earth policy in the public sector. OECD report, which is the subject matter of these questions, noted that a deregulation pro- An Ceann Comhairle: If the Deputy does not gramme by itself is usually too limited and is have another question, I will call on the Taoi- often neither possible nor desirable. The focus seach to answer his first one. has shifted in many countries, including those of the European Union, from deregulation to Mr. J. Higgins: Is there is now a conflict smarter, simpler and better regulation. That is the between, on the one hand, the Ta´naiste and the issue; it is not a question of privatisation. In its Progressive Democrats Ministers who want to short-term agenda, the Government has no par- speed up the privatisation of public services and, ticular proposals on privatisation, even though on the other, the terrified Fianna Fa´il rank and many workers in certain sectors would like to file? have ESOPs. We have said that we will take these issues on a case by case basis when it is strategi- The Taoiseach: I would have thought the cally correct to do so. Deputy would have been half way to Europe to try to convince his socialist colleagues that, collec- Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in: Section 1.4 of the tively, they are all wrong and he is all right, but Government’s White Paper stated, “Departments unfortunately they are saved that experience. and offices will adopt best practices regarding providing better quality information on legis- Mr. J. Higgins: The Taoiseach could always lation, including draft heads of a Bill to be pub- demand a recount. lished where feasible and appropriate.” In how many cases have the draft heads of Bills pub- Mr. Howlin: Poor Royston. lished been circulated to Members of the House? Will the draft heads of the proposed Health Bill, An Ceann Comhairle: Allow the Taoiseach to that will implement the Hanly report and the continue without interruption. establishment of the health services executive, be published and circulated to Members and, if so, The Taoiseach: We know the Deputy had to when? wait until the third day to get his result. If we had electronic voting, he could have had that result The Taoiseach: As regards the Deputy’s first before he went to bed the first night. question, I do not have a particular number. However, it is not new that heads of a Bill would Mr. Durkan: At least we could check the be given to committees in various cases. That is figures. not a new process but the report says we should do it more often. It is up to each Department to The Taoiseach: On the question of introducing do so and that is what has been recommended. better regulation as against deregulation, that is Departments are being monitored in that respect not the issue. As I explained at the outset, there so we will see it occurring more often. are some areas we can regulate and The reform process envisaged by the Health 3 o’clock it makes sense, is efficient and cost- Bill is so complex that the draft heads should cer- effective to do so. Such regulation is tainly be produced. good for business, the citizen, the consumer and is much more cost-effective from the point of Mr. Sargent: I would like to believe the Taoi- view of driving forward productive areas. That seach when he talks about further reforms not argument has been well-made. The answer to the producing a further deterioration in areas of sus- Deputy’s question is “No” because better regu- tainable development and social protection. lation involves improving the processes of policy However, the IEA report on the Lisbon score- formulation, legislative drafting and enhancing card does not indicate that it will be possible for the overall effectiveness and coherence of regu- the Taoiseach to do very easily. lation. It is not about loosely-defined privatis- As regards regulatory reform, will the Taoi- ation or deregulation. seach change the fact that our GDP and national 239 Ceisteanna — 15 June 2004. Questions 240

[Mr. Sargent.] ing the period January to May 2004; and if he will social protection is the lowest in the EU, in per- make a statement on the matter. [15403/04] centage terms? Will the Taoiseach re-examine 9. Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach if he will what he said at the conclusion of the EU Spring report on the role of Government Information Council when he promised a cost-benefit analysis Service; and if he will make a statement on the of climate change issues, so that no harm would matter. [15410/04] be done to competitiveness? Will that matter make it difficult to integrate the Taoiseach’s 10. Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach if he will belief that there should not be further deterior- make a statement on the work of the Govern- ation and his ability to deliver on it, given the ment Information Service and the communi- commitments he has already made and the low cations unit within his Department. [16325/04] percentage of GDP that is being spent on social 11. Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in asked the Taoiseach protection? if he will report on the work of the Government Information Service; and if he will make a state- The Taoiseach: The Deputy’s question was a ment on the matter. [17236/04] more general question on social protection. An enormous amount of money is spent on social 12. Mr. Sargent asked the Taoiseach if he will protection, which covers all areas and is not report on the work of the Government Infor- within the ambit of an individual Department. A mation Service and the communications unit cost factor arises in any legislation that contains within his Department. [17634/04] social protection for citizens, which is not just the The Taoiseach: I propose to take Questions figure provided in economic statistics. That would Nos. 8 to 12, inclusive, together. not be the entire figure because, when one takes The total cost of the communications unit from into account our social welfare system and the January to date is \112,787. Some \23,388 is a schemes run by the Departments of Enterprise, direct cost to my Department with, on average, Trade and Employment and Transport, there is \17,879 being borne by the five other Depart- social protection in legislation across a range of ments which have staff seconded to the unit. areas. The unit provides a media information service to Ministers and their Departments. It furnishes Mr. Sargent: Is the European Commission news updates and transcripts which ensure that wrong? Departments are kept informed in a fast and efficient manner of any relevant news devel- The Taoiseach: The figure it uses would not opments. In this way, Departments are able to include all areas. I am not as familiar with this provide a better service to the public. issue as when I was Minister for Labour, but then The communications unit works an 18-hour the Commission just used a narrow figure which day based on a flexible rota of three working was easily taken and was unconnected with any- shifts. The unit is staffed by six established civil thing else — it would not have included all servants, five of whom are seconded from other social protection. Departments. The work of the unit means that The Lisbon strategy includes the economic, Departments have greatly reduced their use of social and environmental strands which have external companies and ensure they no longer been running since the Stockholm meeting in duplicate work such as transcripts and tapes. The 1999. Sustainable development and environmen- communications unit is estimated to save Depart- tal protections have to applied in an holistic way ments in excess of \200,000 per annum. as part of any reforms or changes — they cannot The Government Information Service, in con- be left out of the equation. When we talk about junction with the Government Press Office, pro- the drive for competition, more efficiencies and vides an information service on Government pol- less or more regulations, it cannot be at the icy to the public through the national and expense of sustainable development. That is why international media on behalf of myself, my Goran Persson, the then Prime Minister, added Department and the Government. It also pro- the environmental aspects to the original Portug- motes a co-ordinated approach to media matters uese strategy of economic and social reform. across all Departments. Since then, sustainable development has had to The Government Information Service issues part of all the examinations and studies. That is ministerial public engagements, both national and strictly watched and controlled by both the Euro- international, to the media on a weekly basis. It pean Commission and the Lisbon strategy groups works with the NDP and community support in the European Parliament and it is done so framework information office to heighten public fairly well. Therefore, it is not competition in iso- awareness and understanding of the national lation, but rather competition as part of honour- development plan. It edits and produces a news- ing economic, social and environmental issues. letter on social inclusion on behalf of my Depart- ment. Together with the Government Press Office and the Department of Foreign Affairs, Government Information Service. the GIS organises and manages the media aspects 8. Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the cost of of State visits and major State occasions. Cur- the communications unit in his Department dur- rently, the GIS is working closely with the EU 241 Ceisteanna — 15 June 2004. Questions 242

Presidency press office to assist with the smooth brief question. He was already in once. I call running of the media elements of significant EU Deputy Rabbitte. Presidency events. Mr. Rabbitte: What is the connection between Mr. Kenny: Will the Taoiseach confirm the communications unit and the headquarters of whether any member of the communications unit Fianna Fa´il? or Government Information Service was in any way involved in making complaints to the Broad- The Taoiseach: None, absolutely none. casting Commission of Ireland which led to the gagging of independent radio stations in the run Mr. Rabbitte: Is the Taoiseach aware of the into the local elections? The vast majority of number of examples that would imply a connec- media coverage leading up to those elections was tion? For example, is he aware of a phone caller election related. Was the work of the unit sus- to a particular provincial radio station com- pended in any way to deal with that issue given plaining there was no debate on the referendum that most of the coverage was political? Was any and two minutes after the programme ended, a member of staff at either unit involved in making phone call from Mount Street offered a Minister a complaint to the Broadcasting Commission of to debate the referendum in the context of the Ireland with regard to coverage on the “Morning phonecall just received? Is that coincidence? Ireland” programme of Thursday, 10 June, in regard to the Ringsend waste treatment plant Mr. Kenny: Probably coincidence. involving Deputy Gormley of the Green Party? Perhaps the Taoiseach would like to comment. The Taoiseach: It is not coincidence because the communications unit does not listen to or The Taoiseach: The answer to all the questions, monitor local provincial radio. I am glad to hear except one, is “No”. The Deputy asked if the Mount Street is more efficient than I thought. office suspended its work during the election. No, it did not. It continued to provide the same ser- Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in: What role, if any, has vice as it does most days of the year, which is the Government Information Service and the giving out the data on newspaper headlines, tapes communications unit in the Taoiseach’s Depart- and transcripts to Departments and agencies. In ment in regard to monitoring the peace process? regard to the other questions, no member of the Is any member of the staff of either tasked with GIS or the communications unit was involved. monitoring the newspaper reportage and, partic- ularly, the British newspaper reportage? I do not An Ceann Comhairle: I will allow a brief ques- mean the Irish editions of British newspapers but tion from Deputy Kenny because other Deputies British newspapers aimed at the readership in the have questions submitted. island of Britain. It is important that the percep- tion or understanding of people on the island of Mr. Kenny: Some of those headlines obviously Britain of the political situation on the island of made bad news for the Government parties. They Ireland are of the best. Is this being monitored? would not have had to have—— Will the Taoiseach advise if either of those bodies is doing it and, if not, why not? An Ceann Comhairle: The Deputy is making a statement. I call Deputy Rabbitte. Four Deputies The Taoiseach: That is being done and has have submitted questions. been done for many years. It is not done by the communications unit but it is done in conjunction Mr. Kenny: The Chair does not have to start with the embassy in London and the press office another row. How does the Chair know I am of the Department of Foreign Affairs. There is a making a statement? close watch, examination and monitoring of articles, editorials and debates in Westminster. An Ceann Comhairle: The Deputy started off This is done comprehensively and is very useful. making a statement about—— Mr. Sargent: Will the Taoiseach agree there is Mr. Kenny: The Chair is presuming I am mak- some difficulty in distinguishing between the ing a statement. interests of Fianna Fa´il and the interests of the State in regard to the diplomatic bag? Was any An Ceann Comhairle: There are only five member of the Government Information Service minutes remaining and I want to try to facilitate involved in sending out that letter to embassies each Deputy who has submitted a question. and the diplomatic corps around the world? Does he agree that it is in contravention of Mr. Kenny: I will mark it down that the Chair Article 27 of the Vienna Convention on Diplo- knows what I am going to say. matic Relations 1961 and rules adopted by the International Law Commission in 1989? Has he An Ceann Comhairle: I do not know what the taken action on it, as the Minister for Foreign Deputy is going to say but the Deputy was mak- Affairs indicated? Was the Government Infor- ing a statement. I asked the Deputy to make a mation Service involved in that? 243 Priority 15 June 2004. Questions 244

An Ceann Comhairle: Is it related to the ques- The fact that supplements were in place for tions before the House? long duration in many cases indicates that they had become a long-term child care support rather Mr. Sargent: That was the issue. Was the than the short-term social welfare intervention Government Information Service involved in which was originally intended. In effect, long- that? term child care needs were being provided through a short-term emergency provision The Taoiseach: No member of the communi- scheme. This is not an appropriate way to meet cations units was involved in any such issues. My the needs of the people in question. Conse- understanding is that none of those issues is a quently, the changes introduced are necessary to problem. refocus that scheme on its original objective of providing short-term income support. Priority Questions. I have held discussions with officials from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law ———— Reform, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Education and Science and Family Support Services. health board representatives to ensure a more co- ordinated approach to the provision of cre`che 69. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and and pre-school supports. Family Affairs if she intends to reverse her As an interim measure cre`che supplements in decision to discontinue the cre`che supplement to payment prior to 1 January 2004 are being persons on social welfare; and if she will make a allowed to continue. Health boards retain discre- statement on the matter. [17777/04] tion to provide assistance by way of once-off Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary exceptional needs payments in any case where a Coughlan): Subject to certain conditions, a per- board considers that the circumstances of the case son whose means are insufficient to meet his or so warrant. her basic needs and the needs of any adult or child dependant may be entitled to assistance Mr. Ring: As the Minster states, this scheme under the terms of the supplementary welfare affects more than 1,700 disadvantaged children allowance scheme administered on behalf of my and their families. She has been lecturing us on Department by the health boards. The objective her efforts to tackle the problem of social \ of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme exclusion, yet to save 2.3 million she discon- is to meet immediate short-term income mainten- tinued the cre`che supplement, which gives disad- ance needs. The scheme is not intended to be a vantaged mothers the opportunity to return and long-term solution in any individual case and it complete their education or be retrained for work was never intended to be an ongoing source of to get themselves out of the social welfare net. A funding for cre`ches. The appropriate necessary recent report showed that some children in disad- services need to be funded directly in a sus- vantaged areas—— tainable and appropriate manner. This approach has been successfully adopted in An Ceann Comhairle: A question please, certain health boards. The boards in question, Deputy. with other agencies, have put in place appropriate long-term sustainable arrangements to meet the Mr. Ring: Is it fair that children in disadvan- needs of the families concerned without requiring taged areas are being affected by this? What pro- them to apply for supplementary welfare allow- visions will be put in place to allow parents with ance. I want to see that approach taken up in the children to return to education in September to other health board regions so that we have sus- finish the course or retrain for work? Will an tainable child care arrangements in place appeals mechanism be put in place? throughout the State. The cre`che supplement was introduced with the intention of providing assist- Mary Coughlan: As the Deputy knows, the cre`- ance to a parent in need of short-term emergency che supplement is an emergency short-term support. This could arise, for example, where a measure. The Department of Justice, Equality parent would not be able to avail of necessary and Law Reform measures for staffing and capi- supports such as counselling services or addiction tal grants support women who wish to return to treatment programmes without assistance with work. They have a prerequisite of at least 10% child minding. It was never intended that the sup- towards the payment of the child care or cre`che plementary welfare allowance scheme would pro- facility. In the Eastern Health Board area cre`ches vide ongoing support for cre`ches. are supported 90% by the health board, with a When the change was announced in November 10% supplement from my Department. This 2003, 1,738 cre`che supplements were being paid. would not happen either in the Deputy’s part of This figure represented an increase of almost the world or in mine. 150% in less than three years from January 2001 If there is a policy decision that we should have because payments were increasingly being made State-run cre`ches under the auspices of the for reasons which were clearly outside the scope Department of Health and Children, it is the of the original intentions of the scheme. responsibility of that Department, likewise if it is 245 Priority 15 June 2004. Questions 246 under the auspices of the Department of Justice, Ireland’s social protection expenditure in 2000 as Equality and Law Reform it should fall to that a proportion of GDP with the rest of the Euro- Department and not be a short-term measure pean Union. coming from my Department. On that basis I There are several important factors which must brought in several representatives and officials to be taken into account when considering this issue. discuss the issue. As I indicated in my response, Ireland’s elderly population is a third lower than until we finalise this matter I will continue the the EU average requiring much lower expendi- payment of the cre`che supplements to those in ture on pensions, health care and care of the eld- receipt thereof since 1 January 2004. erly and Ireland does not provide for supplemen- I have provided significant support for people tary pensions under the State social welfare returning to work, particularly those who are system leaving these to be provided through long-term unemployed and there are other facili- occupational schemes, and by private insurance, ties where those provisions are made through the subject of the current PRSA campaign. other schemes. That said, the basic premise is that Expenditure on these schemes is, therefore, not a policy decision must be made as to whether it included as social protection expenditure. is necessary to provide 100% State aid towards The cost of the tax relief is not available to cre`ches in particular circumstances and areas. It encourage people to make more pension pro- could be asked whether that should be the situa- vision; our level of unemployment is among the tion in our part of the world. There is an inequity lowest in the EU thus requiring less expenditure in the way in which the matter is handled. This on unemployment-related support. Furthermore, funding was initially provided to support women, while Ireland has had low levels of investment in particularly those suffering from alcohol or drug social and economic infrastructure historically, abuse or domestic problems, in obtaining coun- we are now financing a major catch up in infra- selling services. That support will continue under structure with public investment running to over the exceptional needs payment. 6% of GDP in 2002 compared to around 3.5% However, in pursuing this matter further it is for the other cohesion countries, Spain and Por- quite obvious that we are dealing with an edu- tugal and 1% to 1.5 % for developed countries cational social disadvantage issue as opposed to such as Belgium, Denmark, Germany and the someone who wishes to return to work or to par- UK. ticipate in a counselling service. A fundamental The wider economic policies successfully pur- review and analysis of the necessity for child care sued by this Government in recent years have provision in certain circumstances, 100% funded resulted in very significant increases in employ- by the State, must be conducted on that basis. I ment levels; reductions in unemployment, partic- continue to do that and hope to meet with the ularly in long-term unemployment; heavy invest- relevant Ministers to pursue the matter further ment in infrastructure and public services; and and finalise it. substantial increases in real terms in household All sides of the House agree that to have an ad incomes at all income levels. The success of these hoc measure like this does not benefit the par- policies is reflected most clearly in the sharp ents, the children or the full administration of decrease we have seen in consistent poverty over what we want to see in these cre`ches. Other recent years. Consistent poverty has fallen from health board areas have been able to address this 15.1% in 1994 to some 5.2% in 2001. The issue fundamentally whereas in the large urban Government is committed to reducing consistent areas, particularly Dublin, they have not been in poverty to below 2%, and ideally eliminating it, a position to do so. I am pursuing this measure by 2007. on that basis and on the basis that we have a new policy direction on child care provision. Additional information not given on the floor of the House. Anti-Poverty Strategy. The Government’s determination to continue 70. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social to seek to improve the position of the most vul- and Family Affairs if her attention has been nerable in our society is reflected in the revised drawn to the CORI justice commission’s annual national anti-poverty strategy and in the national socio-economic review (details supplied); if she action plan against poverty and social exclusion will work to ensure the Government reverses its for 2003-2005. These contain ambitious targets across several areas, including that of raising the low-tax economic strategy and invests more in \ social provision; and if she will make a statement lowest social welfare rate to 150 per week in on the matter. [17895/04] 2002 terms by 2007. The implementation of these targets will ensure that we are brought further Mary Coughlan: I have noted with interest the along the road to our overall goal of building a recently published CORI socio-economic review more inclusive society in which everyone has the 2003, which focuses on reducing poverty and opportunity and incentive to participate fully in achieving social inclusion. These are key objec- the social and economic life of the country. tives of my Department which we are pursuing through the implementation of the revised Mr. Penrose: The way to tackle social exclusion national anti-poverty strategy. The CORI review and poverty is not by emasculating the various quotes EUROSTAT figures which compare schemes the Minister and her Department under- 247 Priority 15 June 2004. Questions 248

[Mr. Penrose.] not supporting those who are vulnerable, financi- took earlier in the year, such as the rent allow- ally or otherwise. ance scheme to which Deputy Ring referred, the community employment schemes and the cre`che An Leas-Cheann Comhairle: We must move on allowance. Fuel allowance has not increased for to Question No. 71. ages. Is the Minister aware of the report compiled by UCD with the Combat Poverty Agency which Mr. Penrose: I wanted to ask a supplementary showed that one in ten Irish households suffer question. from fuel poverty? Help should be given for this appalling inability to provide heating in so many An Leas-Cheann Comhairle: Unfortunately we homes. are out of time. The Minister must also be aware that 25% of households depend on \140 or less per week. The Mr. Penrose: We did not commence on this UN development programme report in 2003 question until 3.25 p.m. clearly showed that Ireland continued to have the highest level of poverty outside the US. Would An Leas-Cheann Comhairle: There are six the Minister agree this is a shocking verdict on minutes per question and we are now over that the iniquitous policies of a Government which the time. electorate in the most recent opinion poll clearly regards as right wing and socially divisive? Mary Coughlan: I hope the Deputy will not state that the Minister would not answer the Is the Minister aware that the wealthy have question. I would be more than delighted to do benefited disproportionately under the economic so. and social policies of this Government? Over seven budgets the Minister of Finance has allo- Mr. Penrose: I am not blaming the Minister. cated almost six times more resources to the top 30% of our society rather than to the lowest Social Welfare Benefits. 30%. Is that in the Minister’s opinion a way to tackle radically the crisis of low Irish social spend- 71. Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and ing clearly illustrated in the CORI report and Family Affairs the number of disallowed pay- backed up by the EUROSTAT report? How does ments in the year to date, that had been made the Minister propose to achieve our noble objec- under differently applying rules in 2003. tives of equity, fairness and social justice for all [17723/04] our people by pursuing such right-wing social and Mary Coughlan: I understand the question economic policies geared towards high earners? relates to the effect of the measures announced We have seen made to order tax breaks which in November 2003 in the context of the 2004 Esti- benefit the very wealthy being added to Finance mates. These measures included changes to the Bills at the last moment. Is that the way to carry back to education allowance, one parent family on to ensure social inclusion? payments and certain child dependant allow- ances, changes in the conditions of entitlement to Mary Coughlan: I do not agree with the short-term social insurance payments and Deputy because we have quite ambitious targets changes in the supplementary welfare allowance which we wish to pursue over the lifetime of this scheme, including rent supplements thereunder. Government, on which we have made several In some instances, including the back to edu- strides in the last budget, particularly in the \10 cation allowance and certain changes in unem- increase across the board with additional ployment benefit, the changes have not yet come increases to other specific categories. On that into operation. In other cases where changes have basis it is our intention to reach the NAPS target been implemented, it is not possible to quantify of \150 baseline in 2002 figures by 2007 and to precisely the numbers affected by the measures increase the old age pension to a level of approxi- in question in that where there are disallowances, mately \200. We are well on target to deal with the specific reasons for them may not be recorded that and that shows the Government’s determi- on computer payment systems. nation to address the issue of income poverty. Data is available in most cases on numbers in We must take into consideration some of receipt of the relevant payments immediately CORI’s policy views when reading its report, before the measures were introduced and the cur- which are not necessarily reflected in the Govern- rent position. This data supplies some indication ment’s NAPS agreement. Most particularly we of the number of persons affected but it is are not comparing like with like. We have low important to note that the number in receipt of unemployment, low long-term unemployment payments on any particular scheme can fluctuate and an increasing elderly population but not to for a wide variety of reasons, such as, for the same extent as in other EU countries. More- example, seasonal factors in the case of unem- over, the indicators used by the CORI report are ployment. As regards the one parent family pay- based on the Living in Ireland survey and not ment scheme, where transitional half-rate pay- necessarily on the way in which we determine the ments were discontinued, there are now 460 figure through the consistent poverty indicators. recipients of such payments, a reduction of 120. I do not agree with the Deputy’s view that we are In respect of short-term social insurance claims, 249 Priority 15 June 2004. Questions 250 the period for linking claims to previous claims jections, is the Minister not embarrassed that the was increased from 13 weeks to 26 weeks. The cuts were introduced in the first instance. Why number of linked claims has increased by 2,800 does she not have the political courage to rescind to 21,900. The earnings threshold for payment of the remainder of the cuts? She was forced, by graduated rates of short-term social insurance Members on this side of the House, to rescind the was raised from \88.88 to \150 to restore the pre- cuts relating to widows’ payments. vious relationship with standard rates of payment. Does the Minister agree with the view of her The number of graduated rates of payment has Cabinet colleague that inequality is good for the increased by 2,000 to 8,500. It is not possible to economy? I find her silence on that issue utterly establish the numbers affected by the increase inexplicable, particularly in light of the drubbing from 39 to 52 weeks in the number of paid contri- the Government has just received for the type of butions required for entitlement to benefit. philosophies and policies it is pursuing to the det- In the case of child dependant allowance pay- riment of the alienated and dispossessed in our ments to recipients of disability and unemploy- society. ment benefit, there were some 63,000 payments of half-rate allowance in payment in cases where Mary Coughlan: It is not my intention to the spouse-partner of the recipient was in reverse or change any of the agreements that employment and earning more than \210 per were made. I am not entitled to do so because week, the then limit. This allowance was discon- many of them were agreed by the Houses of the tinued where earnings exceed \300 per week. The Oireachtas. As regards current economic buoy- number of such allowances now in payment is ancy, it is not my intention, nor am I in a position, 46,000. to reverse or change any proposals. In respect of information being available, as the Additional information not given on the floor of Deputy is aware, many statistics cannot be deter- the House mined on the basis of other criteria. As regards In the case of supplementary welfare allow- changes in the social insurance fund, the permu- ance, the numbers of rent supplement payments tations in social insurance cannot be seen until have decreased since the beginning of 2004 to such time as they can be effected. On that basis, 58,100, a drop of 1,900. The number of cre`che there is no possible way of providing statistics. supplements has fallen from 1,800 to 1,450, the The additional part of my reply to this question number of MABS supplements from 370 to 240 to be included in the official report and my reply and the number of diet supplements from 13,580 to Question No. 69 provides the information to 13,180. requested by the Deputy on cre`che supplements. I re-emphasise that the changes in numbers outlined may be due in part to factors other than Mr. Boyle: Will the Minister indicate whether the policy changes made. I am satisfied the the Government has been pursuing a philosophy, measures in question have been implemented in articulated by her Cabinet colleague, that a way which respects the original purpose of the inequality is good for the economy? As Minister schemes and services in question. Furthermore, for Social and Family Affairs, who is supposed to these measures produced savings which, in turn, oversee the short-term measures required to were directly reinvested in a substantial 2004 meet the needs of many in our society who are budget package of \630 million. A budget pack- without means, is she prepared to stand over the age of this magnitude enabled the provision of statement made by her colleague? Is what was increases well ahead of inflation for all social wel- said a fair representation of Government policy? fare recipients of weekly payments as well as sig- If it is, the people have taken it on board and nificant general improvements in social welfare responded in kind. provision generally. Mary Coughlan: The Deputy is referring to the Mr. Boyle: I found many aspects of the Mini- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform ster’s reply unsatisfactory. It seems her Depart- who can answer for his own claims. I am stating ment is not collecting statistics on areas about that the Government’s addressing of the issue of which she does not want to know. She does not inequity is exemplary, particularly on the basis seem to want to know the number of people who that we have increased the social welfare fund to \11.3 billion this year. There was an increase of will be homeless as a result of her rent sup- \ plement measures, the number of women and sin- 630 million last year. In comparative terms, I gle parent families that will be affected by the have the greatest budgetary support from the cre`che supplement and the number of cre`ches Cabinet. Outside of the Department of Finance, that are likely to be closed or the number of my Department is the largest spending Depart- people who will lose out on the opportunity of ment. On the basis of low unemployment and a further education as a result of moves in respect not huge increase in the elderly population, the of the back to education supplement. policy of the Government is to address inequality through income supports and reforms. In light of today’s news that \500 million has been collected by the Revenue Commissioners 72. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and through the voluntary disclosure scheme and that Family Affairs if she intends to reverse her tax receipts are running far beyond budget pro- decision to discontinue the supplement given to 251 Priority 15 June 2004. Questions 252

[Mr. Ring.] realistic approach to making repayment arrange- recipients of supplementary welfare allowance ments which debtors can afford to meet. Health who have been supported by the Money Advice boards may still deal with emergency or excep- and Budgetary Service in brokering a deal with tional cases at any time by way of exceptional or creditors; and if she will make a statement on the urgent needs payments. matter. [17778/04] Mr. Ring: MABS is one of the better initiatives Mary Coughlan: My Department has overall introduced by the Department. It was put in place responsibility for the Money Advice and Budget- because of the outcry many years ago from the ing Service, MABS, which provides assistance to thousands of people living on working class hous- people experiencing difficulty in meeting repay- ing estates who, at Christmas and other difficult ments on borrowings. There are 52 independent times of the year — for example, when their chil- companies nationwide operating the service. The dren returned to school — had to approach MABS programme provides money advice to moneylenders. individuals and families who have problems with I have spoken to community welfare officers debt and who are on low income or in receipt of who have informed me that what the Minister is social welfare payments. The latest information doing is short-sighted. It benefited people who available from the MABS companies shows that were caught in a trap and gave health boards an some 12,000 people are currently availing of the opportunity to help them rather than have them service. borrowing from moneylenders. The health board The MABS service does not provide financial and MABS were able to work out a payment assistance to its customers. Rather, it places an arrangement for people in financial difficulty. emphasis on practical budget-based measures Health boards could provide assistance towards that help people to move permanently from partial payment of debts. The arrangement was dependence on moneylenders and to access alter- that the health board did not pay if the person native sources of low cost credit. In 2003 I pro- being assisted did not honour his or her part of vided \9.9 million for the operation of the MABS the agreement. Was it not preferable to have service and an additional \1.01 million was allo- these people helped by health boards rather than cated for 2004 in the budget. MABS supplement have them involved with moneylenders? Money- payments paid under the supplementary welfare lenders had to be paid on demand thus leaving a allowance scheme were made by the health shortfall of money for food and other bills and boards because the people concerned had allowing families to get into further difficulties entered into repayment arrangements that were which impacted on children. so onerous they did not have enough income left Community welfare officers need discretion to to meet their basic needs. Some 240 people, rep- make decisions in difficult cases. I urge the Mini- resenting less than 2% of MABS’ customers, ster to leave that element of discretion in the were in receipt of these supplements at 4 June legislation. The amount of money saved will only 2004. be \0.7 million, which is a small amount. It is a These supplements have not been used at all in good scheme which worked well and should be three health board regions and were rarely used left in place. I urge the Minister to ensure discre- by the health boards serving the Dublin, Kildare tion is given to community welfare officers to and Wicklow region. The practice established in judge where payment should be made by the these areas, which cover the majority of the health board. This would be preferable to having State’s population, is now being put in place people borrow money from moneylenders. Banks throughout the country. I emphasise that MABS and other financial institutions will not give it to supplements currently in payment are not being them because they are already in difficulty. The withdrawn. Payment of the supplement in these Minister should ensure community welfare cases, will continue for the duration of their cur- officers will have discretion in such matters with- rent term of agreement. At the time the decision out contravening the law. was taken to discontinue the MABS supplement, more than 50% of the supplements in payment Mary Coughlan: There will not be any change had been in payment for more than a year and for those currently in receipt of payments. Com- almost 25% of recipients had been in receipt of munity welfare officers can exercise discretion. A the supplement for more than two years. The dur- culture arose in certain health board areas, partic- ation of these payments confirms that the sup- ularly in the south, that exceptional needs pay- plement had become a long term arrangement ments were given over a period of weeks rather which is effectively a subsidy for creditors. The than in their entirety for the purpose of paying MABS companies throughout the country pro- off a debt. There is some merit in that approach, vide support and expertise in a way that best in that the individuals concerned were empow- assists people in sorting out their debts. They will ered to deal with their debt. On the basis of meet- continue to provide their services to people who ing people in the south, I agreed with them that need them. we would examine the issue under the SWA In the circumstances, I am satisfied the decision advisory group with a view to how best to deal to discontinue the MABS supplement is reason- with it. However, I do not wish a culture to able and will require creditors to take a more develop whereby the State is paying for people’s 253 Priority 15 June 2004. Questions 254 personal debt at their expense rather than the tinues to provide care. In this regard present expense of creditors. Effective protocols and arrangements include the provision of job-pro- good working relationships exist between the par- tected leave of absence for up to 15 months with ties and the companies concerned. I pay particu- employers obliged to maintain the employee’s lar tribute to credit unions that have been fantas- employment rights for this period. Any extension tic in working with MABS. We have been able to of carer’s benefit would, in addition to the direct successfully support many people and give them cost implications, have implications for carer’s the necessary skills to manage their finances on leave as well. I consider 15 months to be a reason- the basis of empowerment through the able period of leave in the circumstances. If there companies. is an ongoing care requirement, a person may be It is not the intention to take a certain amount entitled to carer’s allowance. of money to deal with an issue. That is not the The committee also recommended improve- way to do it. I gave an undertaking that we might ments in the information available to carers. I am proceed on the basis of the way in which the pleased to have been able to provide funding of exceptional needs payment is used. Exceptional \18,000 to the Carer’s Association towards the needs payments made in consultation with the publication and distribution of a new information MABS service can still continue. pack which will provide information about ser- vices and supports for carers and their families. Carer’s Allowance. The information pack is currently being complied by the association and will be distributed 73. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social throughout the country in libraries, health board and Family Affairs if there has been further pro- offices, clinics, citizen information centres and gress made in implementing the 15 recommend- social welfare offices by the end of the year. It ations contained in November 2003 report, The will contain important information on the ser- Position of Full-Time Carers, from the Oireachtas vices and supports available to carers and their Joint Committee on Social and Family Affairs, families. The committee also made a number of specifically the recommendation for the abolition specific recommendations on the respite care of the means test for the carer’s allowance; and if grant and other issues relating to carers which will she will make a statement on the matter. be considered in the context of future improve- [17896/04] ments in the scheme in a budgetary context. Mary Coughlan: Supporting carers in society has been a priority of the Government since 1997. Additional information not given on the floor of Over that period weekly payment rates to carers the House have been greatly increased, qualifying conditions Regarding the long-term care agenda, I note for carer’s allowance have been significantly the committee has examined the, Study to Exam- eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended ine the Future Financing of Long-term Care in and new schemes such as carer’s benefit and the Ireland, which I launched last year. My Depart- respite care grant have been introduced. ment recently circulated a consultation document The long-term care agenda is an important on this study, which aims to focus interested par- aspect of social policy with major financial and ties on the specific complex issues we need to other implications and I am determined, together address in the policy development process. These with my colleague the Minister for Health and include benefit design, delivery, cost and financ- Children, to move this agenda on by developing ing, which are discussed at length in the report. a framework for the future of long-term care. The The document has been circulated to more than report of the Oireachtas committee, which I have 70 interested parties including the Oireachtas examined, makes a range of recommendations, committees, health boards, interest groups and many of which relate to my Department and a the social partners. These organisations and number of which concern the Department of groups have been asked to consider a number of Health and Children. issues and to reply to the Department by 16 July. I am always prepared to consider changes to The analysis of the feedback from this process existing arrangements where these are for the will be the starting point for meeting the commit- benefit of recipients and are financially sus- ment in Sustaining Progress in regard to examin- tainable within the resources available to me. The ing the strategic policy, cost and service delivery Oireachtas joint committee’s report recommends issues associated with the care of older people. I the abolition of the means test for the carer’s hope the working group to conduct this examin- allowance, which could cost in the region of \180 ation can be established in October 2004. million per annum. It is questionable whether it would be the best use of such resources in light Mr. Penrose: What is required is additional of other competing demands. I accept there are social expenditure in this area. A total of \500 differing views on this issue. million in additional revenue has come into the Carer’s benefit is a social insurance payment coffers of the Minister for Finance, Deputy for a person who leaves employment to care for McCreevy and Mr. Frank Daly, chairman of the another person and which lasts for up to 15 Revenue Commissioners has said there is more months. The committee proposed the 15 months to come. I appeal to the Minister not to allow limit should be waived where the person con- social expenditure to become the victim of the 255 Other 15 June 2004. Questions 256

[Mr. Penrose.] respite care grant which gives a great deal of sol- straitjacket of the Minister for Finance’s ideologi- ace to people, another is the situation of widows cal thinking. That is the kernel of the issue. The and widowers. A high proportion of people over Minister for Social and Family Affairs requires 65 are caring for people. \250 million. Why does she not get some of it No doubt one would easily obtain political gain in order to abolish the means test, introduce a on the fundamental issue of the removal of the comprehensive system of needs assessment for means test. However, I am not sure it is the right carers, shift a significant portion of resources to thing to do. It is suggested we remove the means home care subvention and give respite care to test on the basis of inequity. However, there will all carers? equally be inequality where people who have Some 50% of carer’s allowance should be paid more than adequate resources to pay will be where a person who provides care is a recipient included in the scheme. We must analyse the fun- of widow’s or widower’s social welfare payments. damental questions of whether somebody who With the reversal of the decision on widow’s and earns \500,000 is entitled to obtain the carer’s widower’s payments and the one family payment, allowance if he or she fulfils all the other require- we have already established it is possible to pay ments and whether that is the best use of 50%. resources. Many of us would rightly question that While canvassing for the election I met a entitlement. We will always have a means test as widow who was a carer. She was in tears, not for a consequence. This is the fundamental issue. financial reasons but because she felt nobody We saw the implications of the abolition of a cared about her although she is saving the State means test in other decisions, for example the millions of euros. There are many more like her. issue of the free medical card to people over 70 If the Minister wants to find out why the Govern- years of age. That was good, progressive and war- ment did badly in the election, she should ask the ranted. However, many people over the age of 70 150,000 carers across the country who feel let are multimillionaires. My view is that we should down. As I previously indicated in the House, I increase the thresholds adequately to ensure that do not intend to let them down. I will fight for more people can avail of the carer’s allowance. I them in every corner to articulate their concerns. wholeheartedly support progress in this area and All they want is recognition. Will the Minister believe home care subvention is an important please give it to them? When the Minister goes advance in dealing with the issue of the increase to see the Minister for Finance in six weeks time, in our elderly population which will come about we will be in her corner. Let us take on this right- over the next 20 years. wing ideology that deprives 150,000 carers of something that only amounts to token recognit- Other Questions. ion in any event. I urge the Minister to do the right thing and look after carers. She has started ———— to do this by taking one of the committee’s recommendations on board but there are a num- Social Welfare Benefits. ber of other issues that need to be prioritised. Will the Minister please implement that report, 74. Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Social which is an all-party committee report? I would and Family Affairs her views on whether the free be surprised if the matter does not rear its head schemes package should be renamed, now that this evening at the Fianna Fa´il parliamentary the schemes are no longer free; and if she will party meeting. make a statement on the matter. [17657/04] Mary Coughlan: The household benefits pack- Mary Coughlan: The Deputy would be most age of schemes comprises the electricity, natural welcome in my corner, but he will also have to go gas and bottled gas allowances, telephone allow- upstairs to the fifth floor. ance and free TV licence. Apart from the TV licence scheme which meets the full cost of the Mr. Ring: The Minister might need us this annual licence, the household benefit allowances evening. have always represented contributions towards the cost of household utility bills, rather than full Mr. Penrose: I will go up with the Minister. coverage of all costs. They are intended to meet the standing charges and a certain fixed amount Mary Coughlan: Some of the Deputy’s col- of electricity consumption, gas consumption or leagues might not be too enamoured with that. I telephone calls respectively. The extent to which appreciate the Deputy has a personal regard for these bills are met by the allowance depends on the issue of carers. Yes, I implemented the initial the individual household usage pattern. recommendation. As the Deputy is aware, we are This package of allowances is valued by social also examining the issue of long-term care. I welfare clients as a significant contribution to asked the committee to reply to me by 16 July their periodic household bills. The allowances are with its views. I also asked others to be part of not, and were never, entirely free; the utility com- that discussion. We reviewed the issue of carer’s panies must be reimbursed by my Department on allowance. A number of issues have been raised normal commercial terms for the allowances they ad infinitum on the floor of the House; one is the apply as credits on eligible customer bills. There 257 Other 15 June 2004. Questions 258 is a significant ongoing cost to the taxpayer, esti- Mr. Ring: I raised this issue at our last meeting mated at \280 million this year. My Department and it certainly arose on the doorsteps during the continually negotiates to obtain the best commer- election campaign. The Minister for the Envir- cial terms and value for money for this very size- onment, Heritage and Local Government, able annual expenditure on the household Deputy Cullen, spoke yesterday about taking off benefits. his hard-line face and donning his softer face in The qualifying conditions for the various indi- his dealings with people. vidual allowances were harmonised in 2002 and renamed as the household benefits package. The Mary Coughlan: That would be no bother to purpose of this was to ensure that a customer who Deputy Ring; his face is impeccable. qualified for one allowance could qualify for all of them. The introduction of this package also Mr. Ring: The Minister, Deputy Cullen, always meant that there would be just one application had a hard-line face but it is good that he got the form to be filled out by a person wishing to avail hard-line message from the people on the ground of this scheme. this week. He told us yesterday that he will now In October 2003 I introduced a further change take the softly, softly approach. to the telephone allowance which may be what I want the Minister to return to her Depart- the Deputy is referring to in this question. The ment on this scheme. The principle of the scheme structure of the allowance was changed to make was that the service was free and people did not it a cash credit on bills and not attributable to any have to pay for the rental. Many people are now particular component of the bill. Previously the confused. The new charges are creating problems allowance had covered the line and instrument because people do not know what the extra rental charges specifically, along with a small charge is for. Some of them have not paid it element of call costs on each two-monthly client because they think it is a mistake and the charge bill. The change I introduced makes it easier for is building up. I urge the Minister to go back to eligible clients to switch from Eircom to another her Department to find the small amount of participating service provider if they so desire. If money it would cost to leave this as a free they so choose, the newly standardised allowance scheme. She should not talk about ComReg or can be applied to phone bills from the service regulators. I am sick and tired of regulators provider irrespective of the tariff components. because when I put a question to Ministers the In conjunction with this change, a special usual reply is that the Minister has no responsi- “bundle rate”, the Eircom social benefits scheme bility for regulators. was negotiated with Eircom. It provides tele- phone allowance customers with line and equip- ment rental plus an enhanced call credit of up to An Leas-Cheann Comhairle: I remind the \5.35 worth of free calls per two-month billing Deputy that supplementary questions are limited period. The cost of the bundle gave better value to one minute. He has exceeded his minute. for money to my Department for the ongoing expenditure on these services. ComReg approved Mr. Ring: I am almost finished. We always had a price increase application from Eircom of 7.5% free schemes. I do not wish to get annoyed with in line rental, effective from 4 February 2004. A the Minister but I urge her to get her Department lesser percentage increase was also applied to to simplify the issue and pay the extra money for telephone instrument rental where applicable. the rental in order to avoid confusion among the Following detailed discussions between my elderly on the matter. It was good that we had Department and Eircom, it was agreed that the the free scheme in the past and that people knew increase in the Eircom social benefits scheme the rental was free. That is no longer the case would be limited to CPI of 1.9%. and people now have to pay a charge every two months. I ask the Minister to rectify the situation Additional information not given on the floor of and let that be the beginning of the new, caring, the House soft Government that got its message over the Some technical restructuring was also intro- weekend. duced by Eircom which removed some additional call unit value. To offset this, Eircom offered to Mary Coughlan: I envy the Deputy his enthusi- give low use customers up to \10.00 worth of calls asm. We will see who gets to the wire in three free per two-month bill, by offering them its sep- years’ time. arate “low users” scheme in addition to the social ComReg agreed a 7.5% increase in line benefit scheme. charges. I negotiated with the Department to The higher Eircom charges have resulted in an reduce that to 1.9% on the basis that we had increase to the social welfare customer of 94 cent, introduced a number of changes. Many people on including VAT, per two-monthly bill, less than 12 social welfare are low users of the scheme and cent per week. This is much lower than the this is why Eircom has provided a special package increase applicable to other households. The for people. It is called a “bundle” and costs \20.41 other revisions to call costs by Eircom should be plus VAT per month, great value for money for broadly beneficial to welfare customers, partic- those people who avail of it. The amount of ularly those who are low call users. money involved in the change is very small, 94 259 Other 15 June 2004. Questions 260

[Mary Coughlan.] involve selling part of a person’s home, rather cent every two-monthly bill, which is just a few than taking out a loan, I am informed they do cent per week. not fall within the remit of the financial services The scheme known as the household benefits regulator. My colleague, the Minister for Finance, scheme does not cover the entire costs. Whether is aware of and considering this issue which was we like regulation or not, I must provide for com- brought to his attention by the regulator. petition within the scheme and I have done that. I am aware from documentation received in my On the basis of that competition we have nego- Department from one of the two companies that tiated not only with the main providers of tele- it does draw customers’ attention to the possible phone services but also with mobile phone pro- effect on social welfare entitlements. I would also viders to use that money specifically to provide like to make clear that my Department has the best deal that can be obtained for the cus- always set out its position in reply to any queries tomer. It is on that basis that the changes have received over the years. taken place. The issues raised overall in this regard in respect of consumer protection are of serious Mr. Crawford: How much would it cost the concern and I am awaiting the outcome of con- Minister to pay that 94 cent? sideration by the Irish Financial Services Regulat- ory Authority and the Department of Finance in Mary Coughlan: I knew that off the top of my this regard. head but I am so tired today I cannot remember. \ I think it is approximately 1.5 million. Mr. Penrose: The equity release type policies are a new phenomenon and many people could Mr. Ring: It is only small money. be vulnerable in this position. They may have bought their homes 30 years ago and are now in Mary Coughlan: Expenditure on the scheme their 60s. Their home is now a significant appreci- this year has increased from \88.24 million to \ ating asset against which they may be borrowing 92.2 million. I will get the figure for the Deputy. substantial sums. Codes of practice are all very well but there have been some fairly drastic revel- Mr. Ring: It is only a small amount. ations over the past six to 12 months regarding financial institutions advising people or not advis- Financial Services Regulation. ing them. When all hell breaks loose, there is only 75. Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Social one loser and it is the ordinary people who are and Family Affairs if she has received a response left carrying the baby. The borrowers or the from the Irish Financial Services Regulatory investors in the various financial institutions Authority to her letter concerning protection for always seem to get off scot free. There are many elderly persons in financial dealings; her views on harrowing tales of other people suffering. We do whether anything can be done to protect the eld- not wish to see a repeat of that in this type of new erly from losing out on pension schemes by bor- phenomenon. It is useful, provided the necessary rowing money against their homes; and if she will protection is afforded to people. make a statement on the matter. [17705/04] I suggest that the Minister has a meeting with Mary Coughlan: I wrote to the Irish Financial the Minister for Finance and IFSRA and that the Services Regulatory Authority with regard to the code of conduct which is a voluntary code, should situation of people who borrow against their be put on a statutory footing to ensure that those home to free up equity and whose elderly people in particular who might be vulner- 4 o’clock entitlement to a pension may be able are clearly informed of their rights and their affected as a result. I was interested responsibilities and what may happen in the in particular in the issue of independent financial future. Independent advice regarding the legal advice in such cases, including advice on the poss- situation and their pension entitlements should ible effects on pension entitlements. I have be proffered to them at each and every step. In received a reply from the Irish Financial Services particular, the impact on non-contributory pen- Regulations Authority and I am informed that sions of borrowing substantial amounts of money the position is as follows. should be explained. This could affect people’s There is currently no obligation or requirement livelihoods and life experience for years. on the financial institution to advise a customer to take independent financial advice on lifetime Mary Coughlan: I agree wholeheartedly with mortgages. However, the authority has informed the Deputy. It was on the basis on my concerns me that it is currently developing codes of con- that I raised this with IFSRA. We will continue duct for all financial services providers and has to keep on eye on this matter. This matter was included in its consultation process issues with also raised in the United Kingdom and was the regard to the protection of financially vulnerable cause of serious concerns. A code of conduct and persons. It hopes to have this code finalised consultation process has been instituted there and before the end of the year. we will monitor progress made as it is of interest At present two companies offer equity release to us. It is my intention to keep a very close eye type products on the Irish market, known as on this issue. The Deputy is correct in saying that home reversion schemes. Since these products people do not realise capital means are being 261 Other 15 June 2004. Questions 262 taken. They do not realise that they would be bet- fare service concerning the operation of Statutory ter off taking out a loan for such a short-term Instrument 728 of 2003 regarding rent sup- gain. plement. [17656/04] ´ Mr. Penrose: With the credit union. 99. Caoimhghı´nOCaola´in asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has monitored Mary Coughlan: They are not aware that this the impact of the recent changes that were intro- capital will be reassessed against them for any duced on eligibility criteria for the supplementary means-tested social welfare payment. welfare allowance scheme. [17539/04] 611. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Mr. Ring: I wish to compliment The Sunday and Family Affairs the extent to which instruc- Business Post which reported the case of a couple tions have been given to community welfare who along with their daughter borrowed \ officers arising from budgetary cuts in 2004; and 250,000. Due to the fact that they had a Bank of if she will make a statement on the matter. Ireland Life loan they lost their weekly pension [17878/04] of \260. People have to be protected. We saw the code of practice which applies to banks. It is time 612. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social the Minister and the Minister for Finance intro- and Family Affairs the number of persons who duced the necessary legislation which includes have been refused rent allowance in 2004; and if plenty of penalties for banks if they do not obey she will make a statement on the matter. the law of the land. Elderly and vulnerable [17879/04] people and everyone borrowing money from Mary Coughlan: I propose to take Questions banks must be protected by the State because Nos. 76, 94, 99, 611 and 612 together. banks cannot be depended upon any longer. The main objective of the measures I intro- Mr. Boyle: Will the Minister accept that this is duced to the supplementary welfare allowance a problem affecting the elderly that goes beyond scheme is to re-focus the scheme on its original pensions and mortgage products which are being objective which is to meet immediate short-term marketed? Will she agree there might be a role income maintenance needs as opposed to long- for MABS, given other press reports that some term needs. The principal changes relate to rent banks have encouraged elderly people with cur- supplement Statutory Instrument 728 of 2003, rent accounts to take liquid assets out of safe which gives effect to the main rent supplement investment products and put their savings into measures. As a result of these changes people risky investment products? There is a need not applying for rent supplement will have their hous- only for a code of conduct but strong regulation ing needs assessed by the local authorities in a in this area. systematic manner and this should increase their chances of getting social housing where appropri- Mary Coughlan: It was on the basis of my con- ate. Subject to the normal means assessment and cerns that I raised it with the regulator and the other qualifying criteria, a person who is assessed Department of Finance. At present, credit is very by a housing authority as having a housing need much in your face. Despite all the supports and will qualify for rent supplement regardless of how regulations and warnings to read the small print, long that person has been renting. people panic. MABS is at hand to give financial With certain very important exceptions, it is no advice and people should obtain independent fin- longer possible for a person to become a tenant ancial advice either from a professional or from in the private rented sector with the support of the service provided by the Department. There rent supplement unless the local authority is satis- are people who are not accustomed to dealing fied that the person has a housing need. The with red tape and do not realise the implications impact of this and the other measures was fully of what they are doing. It is my intention to pur- assessed and the manner of their implementation sue this matter vigorously and to ensure that was carefully designed to ensure that the interests people are aware of the implications of their of vulnerable groups such as the homeless, the decisions. elderly and disabled are fully protected. The six months prior renting requirement does not apply Social Welfare Benefits. in their case. Community welfare officers who administer the schemes have been kept fully 76. Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Social apprised of the changes. A circular was issued by and Family Affairs the number of refusals to date my Department to the health boards last for supplementary welfare allowance for failure December in which the details of the changes to to meet criteria introduced by her Department in the SWA scheme were set out. relation to accommodation needs; the amount her My Department has been in regular contact Department has saved from the introduction of with the community welfare staff of the health this measure; and if she will make a statement on boards both prior to and since the introduction of the matter. [17651/04] the measures in January. These contacts range 94. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for from daily telephone and e-mail exchanges to Social and Family Affairs if she has received informal meetings as well as more formal struc- reports or observations from the community wel- tured meetings at which the operation of the new 263 Other 15 June 2004. Questions 264

[Mary Coughlan.] group, the composition of which I alluded to earl- measures has been discussed. In addition to the ier. My Department will be involved in the group ongoing contacts between my Department and which will be facilitated and chaired by the the health boards, a working group has been Department of the Taoiseach. We are, therefore, established under the Sustaining Progress agree- examining the implications and impact of these ment to facilitate engagement with the social decisions not only in my Department but also partners in respect of monitoring the impact of under the auspices of Sustaining Progress. It is the recent changes to the scheme. The working my intention to continue to keep in touch with group, which is chaired by the Department of the people. Taoiseach, includes representatives from ICTU With regard to meeting community welfare and the community and voluntary pillar as well officers and housing authorities, while I have not as my Department and the Department of the personally met representatives of the former Environment, Heritage and Local Government. group, formal and informal discussions are Details of rent supplement applications refused ongoing between my Department and officials on grounds of failure to meet the new criteria are and representative groups. Although the housing not maintained on my Department’s computer authorities do not fall under the auspices of the system. However, my Department requested the Department, we have been in touch and I have health boards to examine a sample of applications met the Minister of State with responsibility for for rent supplement which were refused since last housing on a number of occasions to progress our January in order to monitor the impact of the action plan. One of the greatest benefits of these changes. Of the 242 cases examined, 25 were contacts has been the current tremendous inter- refused on account of the new measures. It is not action between the health boards and housing known how may of these cases appealed against officers in dealing with housing. In the majority the original decision or what the outcomes were of areas, the application form and information in any such appeals. The savings arising from provided are uniform. The continuation of this these measures derive from refusals of claims, co-operation and the implementation of the pro- where the applicant does not fulfil the new posed action plan by my Department and the requirements, and also from instances where Minister of State with responsibility for housing people do not submit a claim but make alterna- will address many of the long-term issues which tive arrangements to meet these needs. For that prevent people who are unfortunately reliant on reason, it is not possible to state exactly how long-term SWA rent supplement from receiving much has been saved so far this year as a result the best supports. of the new rent supplement measures. The total savings for the year are estimated at \12 million. Mr. Crowe: The Minister stated that her My Department has not been made aware of Department is not aware of increased hardship. I any cases of hardship arising from the application do not mean to insult her but she should talk to of the new measures. None of the measures which the groups involved in the housing issue, for I have introduced affect the discretion of a health example, the Simon Community, Threshold and board to provide assistance where a board con- the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The reality is siders that the circumstances of a particular case that the average cost of accommodation is \121 warrant treatment as an exceptional measure. per week, which is above the cap. People are, therefore, conspiring with their landlords by Mr. Ring: These cutbacks have been in place dipping into their social welfare payments to pay for the last six months. Has the Minister had a for rent increases. The Minister must be aware recent meeting with the community welfare of this problem from her clinics. An increasing officers and if she has, what was the feedback number of people who come to me and other from that meeting? What concerns, if any, did Deputies are using their social welfare, borrowing they express and what are their reactions to the or being subsidised by their families to pay rents. working of the new changes? Has the Minister The latest report on Dublin by the Simon Com- had a meeting with the housing groups, the munity showed that not one person moved from people who monitor the situation on a daily transitional, temporary accommodation into basis? When the Minister made this announce- social housing. Why is this? The reason is that ment, she met with a number of groups who came housing is not being built and made available to together and who were concerned about the cut- those who need it. If the Department is not aware backs. Has the Minister had a meeting with those of increased hardship, it is living in a different groups in the last six months and what is the feed- world. back from those groups? Has the Minister a report for the House? She stated she would Mr. Durkan: Will the Minister explain the report back to the House on the effects of the reason community welfare officers are operating cutbacks. the practice whereby a mother with one child who has a subsequent child and claims child depend- Mary Coughlan: I have had ongoing discussions ant allowance from the Department has her rent with many groups, both within and without Sus- allowance reduced? This is illegal because the taining Progress. On the basis of those dis- person in question does not receive a budget cussions, it was agreed to set up a monitoring increase. Why is this happening? 265 Leaders’ 15 June 2004. Questions 266

Mr. Penrose: Am I sleep-walking or is the case: (1) Deputy Ring — to ask the Minister to Minister living in the land of Walter Mitty in stat- explain the up-to-date position with regard to the ing there is no hardship? orthopaedic unit in Mayo General Hospital, Castlebar, County Mayo; what discussions have Mr. Durkan: It is crazy. taken place on this matter; who was involved in the discussions; what is the outcome of the dis- Mr. Penrose: That is an unbelievable comment; cussions; what will happen to the staff who were of course there is hardship. The Minister stated interviewed for employment within the unit that approximately \330 million has been which was due to open on 1 July 2004; when con- diverted into this scheme. What meetings have tracts of employment will be given to them; when been held with the Minister of State with the unit will open; and what will happen to the responsibility for housing in the past five to six patients who were scheduled to be treated in it; months to ensure that some transitory housing (2) Deputy Cowley — to ask the Minister if he accommodation is made available to those who will explain how the Western Health Board alleg- find themselves in hardship? In what cuckooland edly announced that the Mayo orthopaedic unit or ivory tower are people living or are we fools? would open on 1 September 2004 a few hours before a demonstration organised by him took Mr. Boyle: The Minister must be aware that place when the Minister stated that any possible the Simon Community in Dublin has stated that opening date was deferred subject to a meeting not only has there been an increase in the number between his officials and the Western Health of homeless individuals this year but that the Board this week; if he will confirm whether 1 Sep- number of homeless families has also increased. tember is now the official opening date of the As the Minister who sits at the Cabinet table with unit; if he will agree that if the unit can be opened responsibility for social and family affairs, how on 1 September, it can be opened on 1 July as can she stand over that state of affairs? originally planned; and if he will agree that all staff already recruited will have left for other jobs Mary Coughlan: Contrary to the buoyancy of by the time 1 September arrives, thus ensuring Deputies opposite, I am aware of what is going the unit cannot open on 1 September 2004; (3) on. It was on that basis that I met all the relevant Deputy Olivia Mitchell — the proposed Luas organisations on a number of occasions and set parking charges which will have a serious impact up a special group under the Department of the on the viability of the service and cause local Taoiseach to examine the implications of illegal and highly disruptive parking in residential decisions. Moreover, I have had numerous meet- areas; (4) Deputy O’Dowd — to ask the Minister ings with the Minister of State with responsibility for Health and Children his plans to develop a for housing — I do not have time to check them comprehensive delivery of increased regional out — to examine the action plan to progress acute hospital services at the Our Lady of this issue. Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda; (5) Deputy Perry As regards Deputy Durkan’s question, having — the request for urgently needed funding for analysed every parliamentary question he has the west Sligo rural transport initiative project in tabled to me, it is obvious he has a problem with County Sligo; (6) Deputy Burton — the imminent the community welfare officer in Kildare because closure of the Carmichael Centre, North Brun- that seems to be the crux of the issue. With regard swick Street, which needs financial support; (7) to his specific question, which I have answered Deputy Crowe — to ask the Minister to intervene three times, the woman in question had another in the continuing crisis at Tallaght hospital’s acci- child and, as a consequence, received an increase dent and emergency department where up to 45 in child dependant allowance and one parent people have been left on trolleys and chairs since family allowance. Rent allowance is determined ´ by income and the rent allowance of the woman the Da´il last met; (8) Deputy O Snodaigh — the in question was reduced because she received an need for the Minister to take urgent action to increase in income. I have answered the question redress the chronic underfunding of mental three times and if the Deputy is not happy, I health services at St. James’s Hospital. would be delighted to give him the permutations The matters raised by Deputies O’Dowd, Bur- on which such decisions are made. ton, Crowe and Perry have been selected for discussion. Mr. Durkan: That never happened before. It started on the Minister’s watch and she knows it. Leaders’ Questions. It is disgraceful. Mr. Kenny: By way of introduction, I refer to Written answers follow Adjournment Debate. the Taoiseach’s comment yesterday arising from the results of the local and European elections that Sinn Fe´in was the winner of the elections. Adjournment Debate Matters. The Fine Gael Party now has the highest number An Leas-Cheann Comhairle: I wish to advise of Members of the European Parliament. The the House of the following matters in respect of local election results, when compared with the which notice has been given under Standing general election results of two years ago, show a Order 21 and the name of the Member in each 5% increase in Fine Gael support, with Indepen- 267 Leaders’ 15 June 2004. Questions 268

[Mr. Kenny.] The Taoiseach: The Deputy did not have to run dents gaining 2% and Sinn Fe´in 1.5%, while the this time. Fianna Fa´il Party lost almost 10%. As far as our policies are concerned, the The Taoiseach and his Ministers have stated Government has been determined over the past that the Fianna Fa´il Party will reflect upon the two years to stabilise the economy in light of the consequences of the elections, listen to the people international recession. It did not affect this coun- and take into account the verdict handed down. try as badly as it could have. There was no dra- Does the Taoiseach not accept that the results of matic increase in unemployment, and we man- the European and local elections amount to a aged to stabilise ourselves and maintain tax rates devastating indictment of his Government? The while still attracting some foreign direct invest- perception which came across clearly to Oppo- ment. While it was a difficult two years inter- sition parties was that the Government is out of nationally, we managed our way through that. touch, has grown too comfortable, arrogant and Public expenditure has been reduced from more removed from the people in office and that its than 20% to 6%. It was the right action to get decisions are based on looking after itself and its macroeconomic policies right, reduce inflation supporters rather than dealing with the concerns, and ready ourselves for an uplift. anger and frustration of ordinary people. In view of the devastating loss to his party and the fact Mr. Allen: The Government was saving for the that Deputies from his party are arguing for the next election. Minister of Finance to be got rid of and the purse strings released for more spending, does the Taoi- The Taoiseach: There has been an uplift, as is seach not accept that the consequence of yester- evident from reports by stockbroking houses. day’s results amounts to a serious loss of confi- While time will tell whether economic growth will dence in his Government and in him? What does be 4%, 5% or 6%, the economy is expanding well he propose to do about it? from a low base. The Taoiseach: As I acknowledged yesterday, I acknowledge that when economic success the Government, at least the main party, Fianna does not filter through to people, for example, if Fa´il, did not do well in the elections. I said that they are on a waiting list or a child is not getting very clearly yesterday. Our colleagues, the Pro- what his or her parents believe he or she should gressive Democrats, increased their vote by 1%. from the education system, they feel upset and I acknowledge Deputy Kenny’s party won five that we should do more. seats in the European elections and I have no dif- We must examine that as a Government, and ficulty in congratulating him on that. I said that how we will implement our programme over the in the local elections, from a very low base, his next three years in a number of areas. While it party decreased its vote by 0.6%. That was the is natural that one would like to do better in an figure published on the front page of the national election, the economic policies we have followed newspapers yesterday. If my party had spent while not doing silly things for electoral gain are about 15 years in Opposition, I would certainly right in the medium to long term. not consider it a great victory. Fine Gael did bet- ter in the European election. Mr. Kenny: The Taoiseach recently returned As far as the electorate is concerned, we are from the G8 summit, at which his sartorial choice two years into this Government and we have lost generated more publicity than the economic pro- support of the order of 7% to 9% in the local and posals made at the meeting. Does he accept that European elections. what has gone wrong is not that the country is not doing well economically but that things do Mr. Allen: The Taoiseach is seven years in not work and his Government has failed to deal Government. with the issues with which it is faced? It has pro- duced numerous reports, including Hanly, Pros- An Ceann Comhairle: The Deputy is not the pectus, Brennan and transport initiatives, none of leader of his party. which is being implemented, and has failed to deal and grapple with essential problems. The Taoiseach: The Deputy is 17 years in The fourth interim report of the planning tri- Opposition. bunal, which was published earlier, states that the Mr. Allen: Perhaps that is the problem. inquiry will continue until 2015, another 11 years. What will the Taoiseach do about that? Will he Mr. Durkan: The Taoiseach is a bit green at tell the people involved in the decentralisation the edges. shambles — everyone supports the concept of decentralisation — what he means when he says An Ceann Comhairle: Deputy Kenny has sub- that they can apply to stay in Dublin if they wish? mitted a question as leader of his party. He is Does that mean if they say “No”, they will be entitled to have it answered. allowed to stay in Dublin? How does the Taoi- seach propose to address the fact that the public Mr. F. McGrath: The Taoiseach should not for- has judged the Government on the basis of arro- get the Independents. gance, conceit, removal from reality and that it 269 Leaders’ 15 June 2004. Questions 270 has grown too comfortable in the leather seats winter months that, as soon as there was a stretch of office? in the evenings, civil servants would over- subscribe to move to various locations, and it The Taoiseach: I remind the Deputy that the would be a case of “follow me up to Carlow” and Government parties have more than 30% sup- they would all follow the Minister of State. Hav- port. I do not think what he said is the case. ing regard to the unfeasibility of the this daft, old fashioned Fianna Fa´il stroke, will a review be Mr. R. Bruton: That means 70% of the elect- undertaken? orate do not support the Government . The Taoiseach: It is always interesting to hear The Taoiseach: Our best result in recent years the way issues are raised. For four or five years as was 39%. the last round of decentralisation was completed, various Members representing Dublin, other Mr. Ring: The Taoiseach is worse than Tommy urban centres and rural areas asked whether it Lyons, the Dublin manager. would be undertaken again, whether it was dead and buried and whether we had the heart to The Taoiseach: I do not accept that things are reform the public service. A decade ago it was not working and are wrong. Yesterday I opened said we would never achieve the number of an extension of the Intel plant which involved \2 people we sought to decentralise. Decentralis- billion in direct investment. The company pro- ation must work, it must be organised and diffi- vides the most highly skilled jobs in the world in culties will arise. The Government is committed information technology. The company’s general to decentralisation and the process that has been manager said the reason he is proceeding with outlined. We announced the central applications further investment amounting to \4 billion in facility that is being provided by the Civil Service Ireland is that our policies, the flexibility of the Commission. It will show what is feasible and workforce, our education system and our infra- how we make assessments. We will work our way structure are as good as the best in the world. through that. I do not think it is a daft idea. The Ireland is the fourth best location for foreign reality of the city, the national spatial strategy direct investment by US companies. Employment and balanced regional development is that Dub- is still growing and these facts are very positive. lin cannot continue indefinitely to grow at the There are areas in which there are difficulties. rate of the last ten to 15 years. That is not a It is clear where they exist and the Government good thing. is aware of them. Deputy Kenny says we are not At the same time the western seaboard, an producing reports in areas in need of reform and, enormous part of the country, has excellent where we are do so, he still criticises us. I accept that is a luxury of Opposition. The Government, potential. It has a good infrastructure which is however, must try to get everything right and we improving under the capital programme, but it is will do that to the best of our ability. experiencing depopulation. That is not good for the country, nor is the fact that of our 4 million Mr. Rabbitte: Is the Taoiseach aware the Pro- people 1.8 million live in the greater Dublin area. gressive Democrats campaigned in the local elec- We have to lead and the best way in which the tions — they were not involved in the European Government can lead is by following the national election — on the basis that decentralisation was spatial strategy and by putting good infrastruc- “a Fianna Fa´il idea”? Is he also aware of Deputy ture in the regions, making it possible to get to Fiona O’Malley’s statement that she would bring peripheral locations. We need to provide good the reaction of her constituents to the attention services, in electricity, telecommunications, of the Ta´naiste? Have the Taoiseach’s former broadband and so on, for the regions and the councillors in the Dublin area, who fell like nine State itself must make an effort to move as much pins, reported back to him on this issue? Decen- of central Government to the regions as it can. tralisation in the fashion announced opportun- That is what we are engaged in. istically in the budget by the Minister for Finance Deputy Rabbitte was actively and construc- is simply unworkable. Is a review contemplated? tively engaged in negotiation in a previous posi- I refer to one example, which is the Ta´naiste’s tion. We have to negotiate on these matters and Department. She said of 503 staff who replied to we will do so. Over a short period of time we will a survey, 69 agreed to go to Carlow, of 413 Dub- deal with these issues. We have set out the pro- lin-based FA´ S staff, 30 were prepared to go to cess and we will endeavour to do so. Birr, and of 110 staff who replied to a survey by the Health and Safety Authority, 90 said “no”, Mr. Rabbitte: I did not ask the Taoiseach 15 said “yes” and two said “maybe”. That is an whether decentralisation was a good idea or not. improvement on Mitchelstown where the promise Balanced regional development is manifestly a to relocate 200 Bus E´ ireann staff has fallen good thing but I asked about the decentralisation through because the company’s management dis- package announced by the Minister for Finance. covered it only employs 80. How does the Taoi- I asked whether the Taoiseach intends, in light of seach reconcile this with the commitment made the fallout from the election, to review it and to by the Minister of State at the Department of acknowledge that it is neither feasible nor in the Finance, Deputy Parlon? He told us during the interests of the country. 271 Leaders’ 15 June 2004. Questions 272

[Mr. Rabbitte.] then the country would not be where it is today. To quote Dr. Ed Walsh, it may be good for We are a modern country. We are trying to make some local towns in Ireland but bad for Ireland. the regions modern and yes, there are difficulties. Governance will not be possible. It will lead to However, there will be no knee-jerk reaction that the destruction of specialist agencies. One cannot we will not do anything. If we do that we will seek to relocate professional staff in a particular never solve health service problems, we will never niche area and replace them with generalist civil advance third level education and we will not servants from another area. If Ministers are going continue to modernise the country. That is not around beating their breasts and saying they have what I want. I have worked throughout my politi- learnt lessons, what lesson has the Taoiseach cal life to bring this country off its knees from learnt in respect of decentralisation? Is there to being an underdeveloped, third rate country be a review or not? Is he now saying decentralis- which nobody cared a damn about and which was ation is voluntary? He should not tell me it was riddled with violence. We are advancing. always voluntary, as it has been made quite clear to staff that they have no choice and that their Mr. S. Ryan: Come off it. promotional prospects will suffer. The Minister for Defence is engaged in a legal An Ceann Comhairle: The Taoiseach’s time process to compel somebody to transfer to prem- has concluded. ises owned by a Fianna Fa´il councillor in Roscrea and there are other examples. The Minister of The Taoiseach: Deputies never like hearing the State at the Department of Finance, Deputy Par- answers. I am prepared to argue. lon, is running around like a demented auctioneer with a gavel, willing to sell anything that will An Ceann Comhairle: Allow the Taoiseach to come under the hammer. The attractions in Par- conclude. lon country are diminishing. The Taoiseach: The Deputy from Balbriggan Mr. Ring: He has relocated to the back has spoken, the one who fought for decentralis- benches. ation from Dublin to Balbriggan. The Govern- ment will continue to reform and to build the economy and we will do so successfully. Mr. Rabbitte: What lessons has the Taoiseach learnt in respect of decentralisation and what Mr. Sargent: The Taoiseach is confusing changes will he make? What assurances will he Deputies from Balbriggan. give to civil servants who have put down roots in this city, who have families in education and for The Taoiseach: He claims it. whom compulsory relocation is simply not feasible? Mr. Sargent: Does the Taoiseach agree that ours is a very unequal society? Reports on div- The Taoiseach: The Government has already isions within his Government show clearly that set up an independently chaired decentralisation Fianna Fa´il and the Progressive Democrats are implementation group. That body is advising the not singing from the same hymn sheet on a num- Government on the implementation of the pro- ber of matters. I refer particularly to the state- gramme and it has already submitted its first ment of the Minister for Justice, Equality and report. The Government has accepted all its Law Reform which expressed Progressive Demo- recommendations and will continue to work with crat policy to the effect that inequality is good for the Office of Public Works on the programme. the economy. If the Taoiseach agrees with that, I am glad Deputy Rabbitte agrees with me on where stands Sustaining Progress, which states balanced regional development. I do not accept that a central theme of the agreement is the that specialist bodies cannot move; that would be building of a fair and inclusive society to ensure the easy thing to do. We are currently con- people have resources and opportunities to live structing the Marine Institute in Galway, a \30 life with dignity? Do we understand that this in million state of the art building with highly effect means unequal opportunities? sophisticated technological laboratories. Where does the Taoiseach stand on the row involving the Minister for Transport offering two Mr. Rabbitte: That was indigenous to Galway licences for private bus routes? Will he support and the Taoiseach knows that. the Minister and the Ta´naiste and face down the unions, or will he insist on negotiations with the The Taoiseach: The Central Fisheries Board unions? Where does he stand on the Ta´naiste’s was on the banks of the Tolka for years protect- and Michael O’Leary’s views on the building of a ing the pinkeens. What is the sense in that? The second terminal at Dublin Airport? Will he sup- CSO has our best statisticians. Its representatives port his backbenchers and negotiate with the were in my office a decade ago saying they could unions? never leave Dublin, but they are now happy in It is quite baffling that the Ta´naiste stated it Cork. was urgent the Cabinet reshuffled its approach to If we look for reform but give up as soon as some tough but nonetheless important decisions. someone says he or she does not like that reform, What does the Taoiseach understand that to 273 Requests to move Adjournment of 15 June 2004. Da´il under Standing Order 31 274 mean regarding the policy the Government will be the model he should follow if he is determined follow? Will Fianna Fa´il or the Progressive to address the social deprivation which was a Democrats decide where progress is made? reason he lost so badly in this election?

The Taoiseach: There are a lot of questions The Taoiseach: I do not want this country to there. The Government implements equality be like Sweden. I do not want a high tax rate, measures — we spent \11.3 billion in the welfare a high dependency rate and many of the other budget driving equality measures, while we spent difficulties it has. We have heard all about great \500 million on social disadvantage in education. countries and great health care. We always All our policies and resources go into trying to referred to the French system but one should reduce poverty. Deputy Sargent will know that look at what happened as soon as they faced a bit surveys show poverty is at historically low levels. of a problem. The Swedes have their own prob- We have raised the lowest rates of social welfare lems with health care. by almost two thirds and we have had the largest The Deputy asked me if we stood for social welfare and child benefit increases ever. inequality. No Government since the foundation Deputy Sargent asked about my views on the of the State has done so much to level the base. second airport terminal. It is a good idea if it has That is why 1.8 million people, more than 60% of private sector involvement. How it is structured the adult population, is working. That is why we and run is a matter for debate and discussion with have so many people in third level education and the trade unions, which is important to resolve, we why expend resources all the time to help but I agree with the idea of bringing in more people who are disadvantaged. There are diffi- people and having more jobs, with proper con- culties. I am not saying every issue has been ditions, in the airport. resolved. However, I will not allow it to be said The Deputy asked where I stood on the bus that there have not been huge advances. As the licence issue. That is simple — I have been Deputy knows, 200,000 people have been lifted involved with the CityWest Business Complex out of the poverty net. It is not correct to state from the day it started and it has 110 companies we are at the bottom of the league. This country which employ up to 6,000 people. is not at the bottom of the league in any of Dublin Bus was invited by the management of those areas. CityWest to lay on bus services directly to the business campuses for some of those 6,000 people Requests to move Adjournment of Da´il under who travel by public transport. In fairness to Standing Order 31. Deputy Sargent, he is consistent in that regard. An Ceann Comhairle: Before coming to the Dublin Bus expressed no interest in providing the Order of Business, I propose to deal with a num- service so the management of CityWest ber of notices under Standing Order 31. I will call approached a private operator, Morton’s on the Deputies in the order in which they sub- Coaches, which duly applied to the Department mitted their notices to my office. for two Dublin bus licences. Dublin Bus expressed no interest yet some of its workers Ms O. Mitchell: I seek the adjournment of the want to go into dispute over it which is madness. Da´il under Standing Order 31 to discuss the fol- That is where I stand on that issue. lowing matter of urgent importance, namely, the decision by the Minister for Transport to sanction Mr. S. Ryan: The Taoiseach knows that is the exorbitant and counterproductive parking inaccurate. charges at the Luas park and ride sites which can only encourage illegal parking in residential Mr. Sargent: I asked the Taoiseach specifically estates and, more critically, discourage the use of about the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law public transport. Reform, Deputy McDowell’s comments on inequality being good for the economy. Does the Mr. J. Higgins: I seek the adjournment of the Taoiseach agree with that? What is his position Da´il under Standing Order 31 to raise a matter on fostering inequality? Does he agree, as was of national importance, namely, the emphatic mentioned on Question Time, that, according to rejection of the Government parties by the elect- a graph by the European Commission on percent- orate in the local and European elections on Fri- age divergence in national social protection day, 11 June, the shredding of any credibility the expenditure levels in the EU, Ireland in terms of Government might have had in pushing through GNP and GDP is at the bottom of the league in reactionary policies such as the break up of Aer regard to social protection and equality? Will the Rianta and the privatisation of public services, Taoiseach confront the view which is gaining cre- the need to halt any further moves in this direc- dence in his Government that inequality is good tion, the urgency to address critical issues in for the economy? Does he agree that countries health and education and the need for this such as Sweden, France and Germany, which are Government to resign. at the upper end of the scale in terms of proper provision for the services about which he often Dr. Cowley: I seek the adjournment of the Da´il talks and which are countries where, as it so hap- under Standing Order 31 to discuss a matter of pens, the Green Party was in government, should major importance, namely, the failure of the 275 Order of 15 June 2004. Business 276

[Dr. Cowley.] or three general elections may be held. There is Minister for Health and Children and the West- a number of recommendations in the report. ern Health Board to open the Mayo orthopaedic Does the Government intend to consider them? unit as planned on 1 July; the failure to open 63 Does the Taoiseach have any plans to expedite beds lying idle upstairs in the hospital, including this as the public is growing weary of it week after 33 orthopaedic unit beds, 28 elderly medicine week? Many back garden patios will be built in beds and two palliative care beds, while older the next 11 years if it continues at this rate. There people needing hospital admission lie on trolleys is a number of options open. Some cogent argu- in the accident and emergency department, an ments have been made in the report as to how orthopaedic theatre lies idle since 2001 and while the matter could be expedited, whether through 1,500 people wait on a list dating back to 2000 for contract prices, extra judges, the closing of the operations they will never have as there has not terms of reference or whatever. This matter needs been an elective orthopaedic service since Janu- to be dealt with quickly. ary for Mayo patients due to the recruitment ceil- When is it proposed to debate the legislation ing imposed on the Western Health Board. dealing with the consequences of the referendum on citizenship? Will it be in the autumn session? Aengus O´ Snodaigh: I seek the adjournment of Will the Taoiseach give a guarantee that there the Da´il under Standing Order 31 to debate the will not be a time limit on the discussion on it and following specific and important matter of public that it will include real debate in respect of a pro- interest requiring urgent consideration, namely, per immigration policy? in view of the Irish activist on the seventh day of her hunger strike outside the offices of Cement Mr. Rabbitte: How does the Taoiseach propose Roadstone Holdings which through its subsidiar- to handle the interim report from the Mahon tri- ies is providing the cement used to build Israel’s bunal? The Committee of Public Accounts was internationally rejected apartheid wall in Pales- recently informed by the Department of Finance tine and which is a blatant land grab and a further that the \116 million — it might be \111 million, attempt to stifle and prevent the emergence of an although I think it is \116 million — is likely to independent and viable Palestinian state, the be increased by between a factor of four and five need for the Government to ensure that all Irish to pay for already incurred third party costs. Is it companies, including Cement Roadstone Hold- the Government’s intention to allow this to run ings, act in a responsible manner and adhere to so that we can expect to have a final report by the international consensus in opposition to the the anniversary of 1916 and additional countless wall and to ensure that no Irish company is party tens of millions of euros will be spent which will to or profits from these illegal, inhuman and mor- not perhaps add a great deal to the knowledge ally repugnant actions by Israel against the Pales- we already have of the malpractice that has taken tinian people. place in this county? There is no reason to believe it has been restricted to this county. An Ceann Comhairle: Having considered the For example, why can we not refer the files and matters raised, I do not consider them to be in the cabinets of files there to the Garda Fraud order under Standing Order 31. Squad or equip it to take what actions it considers appropriate? Presumably, on issues where public Order of Business. hearings have been initiated they would have to be concluded, but surely it is a matter for the The Taoiseach: It is proposed to take No. 9, Oireachtas to seriously review whether we will motion re ministerial rota for parliamentary ques- \ tions; No. 1, Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) chalk up 1 billion costs in this case. However, Bill 2004 [Seanad] — Second Stage; and No. 3, there are also five or six other tribunals sitting. Road Traffic Bill 2004 — Order for Second Stage How long does it take to establish whether there and Second Stage. It is proposed, notwithstanding are lessons to be learned from the unfortunate anything in Standing Orders, that No. 9 shall be shooting at Abbeylara or how much fertiliser has decided without debate. Private Members’ busi- been ground in coffee pots in Donegal? Will the ness shall be No. 37, motion re the Garda Taoiseach say whether he intends to involve the Sı´ocha´na. Opposition parties in discussing this and whether he intends to put any proposals to the House? An Ceann Comhairle: There is one proposal to put to the House. Is the proposal to deal with No. An Ceann Comhairle: Deputy Sargent has a 9 without debate agreed? Agreed. question on the same issue.

Mr. Kenny: The Government will have Mr. Sargent: Is the Government examining received the report of the Tribunal of Inquiry into how the subjects of the various tribunals and simi- Certain Planning Matters and Payments today. It lar allegations of misdemeanours were investi- has been a number of years since the Taoiseach gated in other jurisdictions and whether there is remarked in the House in respect of former a need to examine the procedures being fol- Deputy Ray Burke that a good man was hounded lowed? Will the Taoiseach indicate whether pros- out of office. The report states that this tribunal ecutions are to follow given the large amount of could last for another 11 years in which case two public expenditure and the lack of credibility that 277 Order of 15 June 2004. Business 278 surrounds the tribunals which are now seen effec- Mr. Sargent: He might have more vision. tively as a long-winded whitewash with pros- ecutions unlikely in view of the amount of cotton An Ceann Comhairle: Allow the Taoiseach to wool surrounding the various witnesses? continue.

Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in: On the second matter The Taoiseach: I will do my best. Deputy Kenny raised on legislation following on from the most regrettable decision on the refer- Mr. Rabbitte: If the Taoiseach wears the suit endum last Friday, will the Taoiseach indicate he wore at the G8 Summit, he should have no how soon we will be aware of the detail of the problem. legislation that will give effect to that decision? Mr. G. Mitchell: The Taoiseach will remember The Taoiseach: There are two issues to deal the elections. with. Regarding Deputy Kenny’s second question on the citizenship referendum, the Minister The Taoiseach: I had to put a bit of colour into responsible will engage in discussions with the the place. House prior to publication, perhaps during the In respect of what Deputies Kenny and Rab- summer months, and the legislation will be ready bitte asked me, the Government will have to in the autumn. The Minister should be given examine this report. I would be prepared for us adequate time to deal with that legislation. to sit down collectively to examine what modules Regarding the other matter about which we, as Members of this House, consider are Deputies Kenny, Rabbitte and Sargent asked me, important. I do not believe it is only a matter for the Government has only received this report. the Government. If they are modules under We will examine it. As Deputy Kenny pointed investigation, I accept they will have to stay out, there are a number of recommendations in within that process. Others perhaps do not need it. It clearly states with regard to its current terms investigation or we should refer them to a com- of reference that the tribunal considers its remit mittee of the House. I would certainly be pre- does not afford it discretion as to which matters pared to do that. It seems to be the sensible way it is required to investigate. My reading of that is to proceed. The process will have no credibility if that because of that provision, the members of we continue on this path. the tribunal have to investigate everything Mr. Crawford: I wish to raise two issues, one of brought before them. That is not what the House which is the problem of the erection of illegal had in mind in the autumn of 1997. At that stage radio masts in the Border region. When will the there were a few issues and few more related radio communications Bill be introduced? issues arose. I am not saying what the members Many Members have spoken today about the are investigating at present is not part of those issues raised during canvassing. One of concern issues. I accept, as Deputy Rabbitte said, that it to most parents, even in small areas in County is. It certainly was not the view of any of us who Monaghan, is the drugs issue. When is it intended were involved in those discussions — I worked that the drug offenders Bill, and the added penal- with the leaders of the Opposition of the day — ties that will apply under it, will be dealt with? that we would have the final report in 2014. In respect of a matter related to myself, I was told The Taoiseach: The radio communications Bill in 1998 that I would get the report in three will set the framework for the development of the months’. It seems that 2016 may also pass before spectrum policy and update the provision relating we get it. I agree fully with Deputy Rabbitte on to licensing and enforcement. The heads of that that. Bill are expected to be ready in the next few The House set up the tribunal. It is incumbent months, but it will be next year before the legis- on us — the report of the tribunal seems to state lation is published. this — to decide what matters are on the tri- I do not have a date for the publication of the bunal’s modules. The report also states that the drug offenders Bill, as work on it is at a prelimi- current module should conclude around the time nary stage of examination. Work on drafting the of the next Da´il. Deputies Kenny and Rabbitte heads of the Bill has not commenced at this stage. will recall that when I increased the membership of the tribunal from one to three judges, it was Mr. Crawford: Does the Taoiseach not con- my clear view that there would be a simultaneous sider that Bill is urgently needed? operation with regard to the matters before it. I know from my experience that it is not that easy The Taoiseach: It will take some time. to remember what happened in 1988 and 1989. By the time the tribunal approaches 2018, I hope Mr. J. Higgins: I have the Government’s legis- I will not be recalled because I probably defin- lative programme for the summer session 2004 itely will not remember much. brought in by the pre-11 June Government. In regard to legislation generally, having listened to Mr. Kenny: The Minister, Deputy Dermot Ministers’ contributions during the past 48 hours, Ahern, might remember. full of contrition—— 279 Order of 15 June 2004. Business 280

An Ceann Comhairle: Has the Deputy a ques- and, in the main, has been successful, although tion appropriate to the Order of Business? there are some difficulties. Will the Taoiseach provide an opportunity before the recess for the Mr. J. Higgins: My question is entirely about scrutiny process to be reported to the House? legislation. I want to know if Ministers’ expression of contrition and compassion, leading The Taoiseach: I accept the committee has us to believe that we have a new done an enormous amount of positive work. Government—— Some Ministers have also been involved in this. I will try to provide such an opportunity before the An Ceann Comhairle: That is not in order on summer recess. the Order of Business. Dr. Cowley: Is there forthcoming legislation to Mr. J. Higgins: Will the legislative sort out the mess at Mayo General Hospital programme—— where 68 staff, who were employed for a unit that was to open on 1 July—— An Ceann Comhairle: The Deputy will have to raise that matter in another way. An Ceann Comhairle: A question to the Mini- ster for Health and Children might be more Mr. J. Higgins: This matter is entirely in order. appropriate. I want to know if the legislative programme stands following serious promises by Dr. Cowley: Is there legislation to provide Ministers—— some equality to patients in County Mayo, per- haps in the same way as was done for the An Ceann Comhairle: It is not appropriate to equine industry? make a preamble. The Chair has ruled many times on such matters. If the Deputy has a ques- Mr. N. Dempsey: The Deputy should talk to tion on legislation, that is in order. Standing some of his medical colleagues on the Western Order 26 is quite specific. The Chair will read it Health Board. for the Deputy if he wishes. Ms Shortall: Was the State airports Bill con- Mr. J. Higgins: That is unfair. I have a specific sidered by the Cabinet today? What is the question on legislation as well. To be fair, there Government’s intention in respect of that legis- are as many preambles on the record of this Da´il lation? Does the Taoiseach intend to proceed as there are Fianna Fa´il councillors who lost their with it and, if so, what is the expected publi- seats. Is it intended to carry on with the senseless cation date? policy of the break-up of Aer Rianta and will that legislation be introduced before the summer The Taoiseach: I do not have a precise publi- recess? cation date but it is intended to publish the Bill. The Taoiseach: That is the intention. Consultations have continued with the social partners on that Bill for some weeks. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin: Now that the local elections are over, can the Taoiseach give an Mr. Sargent: I am interested to know whether assurance that he will publish the disability Bill the pink pages, indicating that publication of before the summer recess? legislation will take place by the summer recess, have any meaning, given the reply Deputy Moy- The Taoiseach: As I said previously, work has nihan-Cronin just received, that the disability Bill been continuing with the disability groups to try will now be taken in the next session. The Bill is to finalise as many issues as possible and get listed as being promised before the summer agreement on them. I have not checked the posi- recess of 2004. In that regard, for example, will tion in the past week or two, but I know that the Civil Service regulation (amendment) Bill officials have had communications. The Minister also be put on the long finger until decentralis- of State, Deputy O’Dea, had a meeting with the ation has been forced through? Can the legis- groups quite recently. I am not sure what the pub- lation that was promised to be taken before the lication date of the Bill will be, but we hope to summer recess retain credibility? debate it in the next session. The Taoiseach: The Civil Service regulation Mr. G. Mitchell: There are a number of reports (amendment) Bill will be taken in this session. on the Order Paper from the Committee on European Affairs and the Sub-Committee on Mr. Sargent: The disability Bill will be taken in European Scrutiny. Under the Euro- the next session. 5 o’clock pean Union (Scrutiny) Act 2002 the committee is required to report to The Taoiseach: I cannot see it being taken in the House on progress in scrutinising EU legis- this session because it is an enormous Bill. lation up to the end of December 2003. The com- mittee has worked hard on a cross-party basis Mr. Boyle: That is the fourth broken promise. 281 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 282

Mr. Sargent: More broken promises. The Taoiseach: I said I would discuss this mat- ter with the Opposition leaders before we do Mr. Durkan: In view of the desolation on the anything. political landscape and the Government’s need to construct a monument to itself in the shortest Ministerial Rota for Parliamentary Questions: possible time, perhaps the Taoiseach will indicate Motion. when the national monuments Bill is likely to be rushed through the House. Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Ms Hanafin): I move: The Taoiseach: Early next year. That, notwithstanding anything in the resol- Mr. Durkan: We will need it before that. ution of the Da´il of 6 June 2002 setting out the rota in which questions to members of the Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in: The Taoiseach indi- Government are to be asked, or in the resol- cated that the heads of the health Bill to establish ution of the Da´il of 1 June 2004, questions for the new health services executive and complaints oral answer, following those next set down to procedure should be published prior to the legis- the Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade lation being taken in the House. As the health and Employment, shall be set down to Mini- Bill is scheduled to be published in the course of sters in the following temporary sequence: this year, when does the Taoiseach expect the Minister for Health and Children heads of that Bill to be published? Minister for Finance The Taoiseach: It is hoped that the entire Bill Minister for Foreign Affairs will be published this year. Minister for Communications, Marine and Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in: Yes, but the Taoiseach Natural Resources promised earlier to circulate the heads of the Bill. Minister for Education and Science An Ceann Comhairle: The Deputy should Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism allow the Taoiseach to answer the question. Minister for Agriculture and Food The Taoiseach: It is to be hoped that the heads whereupon the sequence established by the of the Bill will be available to the Government resolution of 6 June 2002 shall continue with during the summer. questions to the Minister for Transport. ´ Caoimhghı´nOCaola´in: When will they be Question put and agreed to. circulated?

Mr. Allen: As regards the fourth interim report Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Bill 2004 of the Mahon tribunal, which has made million- [Seanad]: Second Stage. aires out of many people, while criminals—— Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): I move: An Ceann Comhairle: We have already dealt “That the Bill be now read a Second Time.” with that matter. The purpose of this Bill is to raise the ESB’s statutory borrowing limit with the aim of facilitat- Mr. Allen: No, hold on. ing the ESB’s current major infrastructure invest- An Ceann Comhairle: Does the Deputy have a ment programme. The ESB’s existing borrowing question arising from legislation? limit stands at IR£1.6 billion. This is equivalent to \2.03 billion and has remained unchanged Mr. Allen: I have a question, yes. Does the since 1982. The Bill proposes increasing this limit \ Taoiseach propose to introduce a motion or a to 6 billion to take account of the reality of regulation to change the terms of reference of the today’s economy. tribunal before the summer recess? Management of the finances of the ESB is a matter for the board and management of the An Ceann Comhairle: That matter has already company. Towards the end of 2003, it became been dealt with, Deputy. apparent that the existing borrowing limit was beginning to act as a severe constraint on the Mr. Allen: Not necessarily. company. The company recognised that if it was to accomplish its significant capital programme, it An Ceann Comhairle: It has. Four Deputies would need to rely more extensively on its bor- raised the issue and the Taoiseach replied. rowing capacity and that it could not continue business as usual within the confines of the exist- Mr. Allen: I am asking specifically if we will ing limit. have a proposal to change the terms of reference The ESB’s borrowing level is at \1.9 billion, before the summer recess, in view of the practical which is very close to the existing limit. While the nature of some of the suggestions in the report. company is employing tight management of its 283 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 284

[Mr. D. Ahern.] that the actual requirements and the projected cash outflows, the remaining cash balance is headroom built into the proposed new limit expected to be exhausted within a matter of should meet the company’s needs for the foresee- weeks. This is, of course, based on the assumption able future. that there are no unexpected demands for cash The ESB’s debt strategy is designed to: ensure within that period. The urgent passing of this there is sufficient liquidity in the company; ensure legislation is therefore essential for the company flexible terms and conditions consistent with the to continue to operate effectively. achievement of the corporate strategy of the com- Before going into the detail of the company’s pany; minimise the cost of debt while optimising investment programme or of the Bill’s provisions, the debt mix; develop strong relationships with a I will refer to the ESB’s financial results for 2003, key group of banks; and ensure a diversity of which were published since this Bill passed all funding sources. The ESB has many sources of stages in the Seanad. As Deputies will be aware, financing including the European Investment the results revealed a healthy financial position Bank, syndicated facilities and bilaterals, leases, in the company, with turnover up by 9% on the the private placement market and non-recourse previous year. Profit after tax was also up on the financing. This range of different sources pro- previous year at \249 million with a resulting vides the company with the ability to avail of the declared dividend of \67 million. It would be easy best terms and keenest rates on offer. Keen fund- to make the assumption that these figures rep- ing rates underpin a more cost-effective capital resent excessive profits, but this would be to expenditure programme. ignore the complete picture. The private placement arranged by the com- The level of profits must be viewed in the con- pany in the United States last December has text of the size of the company, which has fixed given the ESB a significant financial boost. The assets of nearly \5 billion. As mentioned earlier, deal, which provided the company with $1 billion the company’s level of debt currently stands at in finance at keen rates, is intended to fund major \1.9 billion and this debt, which is set to increase improvements in the power infrastructure in this over the coming years, needs to be serviced. The country. The private placement market was an level of profits also needs to be viewed in the con- attractive option for the ESB because of the text of the company’s capital expenditure range of maturities and the competitive interest programme. rates available. Two major banks, namely, ABN To put this expenditure programme in perspec- AMRO and Barclays Capital, jointly arranged tive, in 1982 when the borrowing limit was last the financial deal with principal participants set, the annual capital expenditure for the ESB being insurance companies and some pension was approximately £200 million, which is approxi- funds. The very positive response of the private mately \254 million. This year, the approved placement market reflects the ESB’s high inter- annual capital budget is approximately \1.4 national standing and can also be seen as a vote billion, nearly six times what it was in 1982. This of confidence in the Irish economy. is an all-time high for the company and reflects The ESB also entered into a separate \500 the enormous range of infrastructural develop- million revolving credit facility at the end of 2003. ment being undertaken at this time. It should be The facility, which was co-ordinated by the Royal noted, however, that the ESB sees this trend Bank of Scotland, will be drawn on as and when reaching its peak this year and then taking a necessary to ensure liquidity is constantly avail- downward turn over the next five years. By 2008, able and will therefore assist the ESB’s overall the company expects its capital spend to be funding programme. As I mentioned earlier, the approximately \650 million, about half the cur- main purpose of the increased borrowing limit is rent level. This will bring the company back in to fund the ESB’s current major infrastructure line with its more normal spending patterns. investment programme. The proposed level of As regards the proposals before the House capital expenditure between 2004 and the end of today, I would like to put some perspective on 2008 is expected to be nearly \5 billion. This is the existing and proposed limit figures. The sum designed to meet the strong increase in demand of \2.03 billion in 1982 terms is now approxi- for electricity in the Irish market and will support mately equivalent to \4.31 billion. The ESB has development of the national economy. advised that its borrowings will increase to nearly In 2003, the ESB invested more than \650 mill- \4 billion by 2008. Facilities of \1 billion are ion in the network infrastructure in Ireland. The required for liquidity purposes. It is intended that replacement and upgrading of almost 17,000 km these facilities will not be drawn down unless of distribution network was completed and a absolutely necessary. It is also proposed to factor record 77,000 new customers were connected to in an additional \1 billion, thus bringing the limit the system. For 2004, the company has a target of to \6 billion in total. more than 20,000 km of network renewal sched- Given the ever present pressures on Oireachtas uled for completion. The most recent forecast time and on Government legislative programmes, from the company for new connections in 2004 is the proposed limit is reasonable and prudent. It that over 80,000 new customers will be connected should be remembered that the current statutory to the system. limit had sufficient headroom built into it to cover The renewal and investment in the ESB’s gen- the company for the past 22 years. It is envisaged eration portfolio both here and abroad is continu- 285 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 286 ing in line with the company’s corporate strategy. repeats exactly the wording of the existing sub- During 2003, agreement was reached on the clos- section (4), except for the change from the ure of the old peat-fired generating stations at amount in pounds to the new higher amount in Rhode, Shannonbridge, Lanesboro, Caherciveen euro. Given the nature of the amendment and the and Bellacorrick. Their decommissioning will size of the provision, the Office of the Parliamen- take place as two new state-of-the-art peat tary Counsel felt it more appropriate to re-state stations at Lanesboro and Shannonbridge come the subsection in its entirety with the new higher into production later this year and early next amount included as appropriate. I agree with this year, respectively. approach as it facilitates a clearer understanding The ESB’s international investment pro- of what is being proposed by all who will read gramme promotes the good reputation of the this Bill. Transparency and clarity of understand- company among global energy utilities. Two ing are key tenets of the Government’s White major international power generation projects are Paper entitled Regulating Better and the expected to come to fruition shortly. These are approach being taken in this Bill is in line with the new 400 MW plant which will be com- those tenets. missioned in early 2005 in Coolkeeragh, County Section 2 provides for the Short Title, collective Derry, and a new 750 MW plant in Amorebieta, citation and construction of the Bill and is a stan- near Bilbao in northern Spain, which is due to be dard drafting provision. commissioned later that year. The ESB is one of our major State companies A decision on the future of the coal-fired in terms of its sheer size and the manner in which station at Moneypoint will have to be made over it impacts on the day-to-day lives of every citizen the coming weeks. The ESB is considering what and on the whole economy. Throughout its exist- commercial decisions it should take as an invest- ence, the company has delivered its essential ser- ment of around \360 million would be required vices to the country to the highest standards of for emissions cleaning technology to ensure com- public service. The company is now adapting pliance with environmental obligations and main- itself to meet new challenges presented by a taining the plant in operation for the long term. changing business environment brought on by If Moneypoint is not to be upgraded to comply market liberalisation and the demands of com- with the new environmental requirements, it must petitiveness and environmental change. I am con- close by around 2011 and an alternative elec- fident the ESB will continue to serve the Irish tricity generating plant, probably gas-fired, would people with the same level of commitment and have to be in place by that time. It has long been professionalism it has historically displayed in recognised by both the company and the Govern- providing the country with a high-quality elec- ment that if the company is to justify major new tricity supply and infrastructure. investment in Moneypoint it must be in the con- I hope the foregoing provides Deputies with a text of benchmarked best practice in all respects. clear understanding as to the background and In this regard, I understand that agreement on a need for this Bill, the early enactment of which is best practice agreement for the plant has now now a matter of urgency for the ESB. I commend been reached locally between management and this Bill to the House. workers. I commend all the parties involved for their efforts in ensuring a swift and positive out- Mr. Coveney: I thank the Minister for his com- come on this issue, which is a prerequisite to sec- prehensive explanation as to why the Bill is being uring the future of the plant. brought forward. I am glad to have an oppor- As I explained during the debate on this Bill in tunity to speak on it. I have not been in the the Seanad, it was originally the intention to House for a few weeks, therefore I am glad to be include the borrowing provision contained in this back in business today. Bill in another new Bill called the energy (miscellaneous provisions) Bill 2004. However, Mr. D. Ahern: I should have congratulated the the Attorney General subsequently advised me Deputy on his victory. that a Bill dealing solely with the ESB statutory Mr. Coveney: The Minister is fine. I was not borrowing issue would be more appropriate in trying to invite such a comment. view of the time constraint on getting this new legislative provision enacted. Hence, the legis- Mr. Broughan: I second the Minister’s con- lation before the House today. The energy gratulations to Deputy Coveney. (miscellaneous provisions) Bill 2004 will now be published later this year. Mr. Eamon Ryan: I too congratulate Deputy The Bill before the House is a short one with Coveney. only two sections. Section 1 is the main provision and gives effect to the change of limit to \6 billion Mr. Coveney: Will the Minister be glad to get by amending section 4(4) of the Electricity rid of me? (Supply) (Amendment) Act 1954. This section of the 1954 Act was originally amended when the Mr. D. Ahern: Not at all. borrowing limit was raised to its current level of IR£1.6 billion by the Electricity (Supply) Mr. Coveney: The purpose of this Bill is clearly (Amendment) Act 1982. The new subsection (4) to raise the ESB’s statutory borrowing limit of 287 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 288

[Mr. Coveney.] months later another big increase is sought. When £1.6 billion, which is approximately \2 billion, will this stop? Small and large businesses and and has remained unchanged for 22 years. The households cannot continue to have increased thinking behind this Bill is to facilitate an upward energy costs as witnessed during the past 18 revision of that limit to accommodate the months to two years. increased borrowing requirement of the ESB at There is still huge market dominance within this time in order to fund an extensive capital the energy sector from the ESB and that is under- expenditure programme. The new figure pro- standable. The transition towards a liberalised posed in the Bill is \6 billion. As has been noted, market will take some time. People may ask the there are no Exchequer implications for increas- valid question whether by facilitating a significant ing the limit. increase in the borrowing capacity of the ESB we On the face of it, this seems like a sensible are just feeding the potential for an increase in approach but it is an opportunity to discuss in the dominance of the ESB within the market- some detail the energy market in general and I place? Now it can increase its capital investment have some concerns in regard to significantly significantly because it can borrow much more increasing the borrowing limit available to the money in Ireland and abroad. Will the ESB ESB. I will structure my comments around those become a more powerful and more dominant the Minister made a number of months ago at a player within the Irish energy market? That is not committee meeting. He stated that similar to the a reason to support the Bill, but I support it as situation in most other countries, energy policy in does the Fine Gael Party. If the borrowing Ireland is governed by three core policy objec- capacity of the ESB is being increased signifi- tives. They are ensuring the development of an cantly, are other measures being taken to ensure efficient and properly regulated energy market to the problem of market dominance is addressed in support Ireland’s economic competitiveness and the ESB within the energy market? Perhaps the which provides customers with a choice of energy Minister will comment on that issue. sources and supports economic growth, ensuring Another area about which I am concerned security of energy supply and ensuring that relates to efficiency, the final area of the first core energy supply and use are environmentally sus- policy objectives of the Minister. I raised this tainable. matter previously on Question Time. The I shall comment on how far down we are in efficiency of many of the older ESB plants is a regard to achieving any of those objectives and problem. Perhaps this makes the argument for the present state of play? On the aim of an the need for the ESB to be allowed borrow more efficient and properly regulated market, we have money to invest in its plant. Certainly, during the had liberalisation of the energy market during the past five years. What has it produced for us? The past three to five years the efficiency of ESB promise was that it would promote competition, plants, using the standard measures, whether to reduce prices, increase choice for the consumer look at the down time of plant or whatever, in and business and, most importantly, increase regard to energy generation has been a problem efficiency of energy generation and distribution and the graph is going in the wrong direction. The in Ireland. Unfortunately, the result has been few Minister, as the largest shareholder in this State new entrants into the market and those who have company, needs to apply pressure to ensure that come in have had to be invited, little choice for figure is watched carefully. We must ensure the the consumer and business, although there is ESB generates electricity in as efficient a manner some, a significant increase in the cost of energy as possible, even if it has dominance in the area and inefficiency problems within ESB plants in of generation. the generation of energy. Perhaps we need to Turning to the second core objective, ensuring reassess what the Government can do to take a security of supply, I welcome the Minister’s more proactive approach towards promoting announcement some months ago concerning the competition within the energy sector. Compe- promotion of the idea of a new east-west inter- tition has not yet worked because the bottom line connector between Wicklow and Wales. is that the customer has not yet got the rewards. However, I have a concern. There are two 500 On the question of supporting economic watt interconnectors which have the potential to growth, another of the Minister’s first core policy provide up to 1,000 MW of electricity coming into objectives, perhaps the most significant concern Ireland, should it be needed for security reasons. of IBEC, ISME and others, certainly as outlined The project makes much sense for other reasons to me, is the increase in the cost of energy. The but primarily for security reasons. I have a con- reality is that we must take a more aggressive cern about a private investor and operator own- approach towards facilitating competition which, ing and running that infrastructure. When dis- ultimately, will be the way to reduce costs. Some cussing the possibility of the ESB being outside factors affect the cost of energy, such as privatised, the Minister stated clearly that he was the cost of oil, but there are others ways to ensure opposed to the privatisation of the transmission efficiency and a reduction in costs to the con- and distribution systems. He said he believed that sumer. Every time the ESB applies to the regu- infrastructure, such as wires and pipes, are critical lator for a price increase we are told it is the last national assets and should remain in State owner- big increase customers will see, but six or eight ship. What he is saying, and I agree with him, is 289 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 290 that we should never sell the national electricity the discussions that will be required with Bord grid. na Mo´ na. Surely an interconnector is only an extension The final element of the energy mix is the of the national grid linking Ireland’s grid to the renewables, that is wind, wave, tidal and a whole British grid. That is a slight over-simplification of set of other clean fuel sources. I believe Ireland what the interconnector is but, in essence, that is is dragging its heels, as the rest of Europe, partic- what it is. Does it not make sense for that to be ularly northern Europe, moves ahead with a piece of State infrastructure in the electricity ambitious targets. We have been warned in the market rather than allowing a private operator to media a number of times that we may have own, run and control that interconnector into the capacity problems in not being able to provide future? I continue to make the case that State enough power for the economy. The intercon- investment in and State management of that nector is a potential answer, but the bottom line interconnector would be a good investment and is that we need to attract other interested parties, would be a good value-for-money spend. as well as the ESB, to generate electricity in Continuing on the theme of security of supply, Ireland and to compete with it. Viridian and I wish to deal with the need for a proper fuel Eirtricity are such companies but we need more mix in the production of energy in Ireland. The competition. Minister mentioned coal and the Moneypoint The final core objective of the Minister is to plant. My views have not changed on this. We ensure that energy supply and use are environ- need to keep coal in the energy mix in Ireland mentally sustainable. This comes back to the last even though it is a dirty fuel. If Moneypoint was point, which is the lack of initiative in Ireland on changed over to a gas-powered station it would renewable sources of energy. As I have said a not make sense in terms of security of supply. We dozen times, we have a number of natural com- could be overly vulnerable to the international petitive advantages, but there still seems to be no price of gas, which may be a real problem when ambition in Government in this area. Only the gas supplies run out in Europe and we may be AER schemes have been of any consequence, and up until AER VI, they have been by and reliant on Russia for the supply of gas. Even large a failure on the promotion of wind energy. though I prefer that coal would not be a fuel Under AER VI, we will probably have a signifi- source for large energy generation because it is cant build in wind energy projects across the dirty, it is a necessary part of the mix for the county, which is welcome. We should be much medium-term at least. As the Minister said, we more proactive in bio-fuel technology, replacing need to make the necessary investment to diesel with biodiesel for example, again providing upgrade the facility at Moneypoint to minimise a new crop that can be grown on setaside land the emissions from that plant and to benchmark and replacing petrol with ethanol, providing new that upgrade to ensure that the emissions from and exciting possibility for land use as well as coal power generation will be minimised. much cleaner fuel. Gas is a very efficient and clean source of We are not breaking new ground. The tech- power and the sooner we bring gas ashore on the nology already exists. Whether one looks west to west coast, the better. The new peat power the United States or east to Germany or France, stations are a big improvement on the former the industries already exist. We have only to copy stations, but I am concerned by the thought pro- what they are doing, but we do not seem to have cess that commissioned the building of two new the ambition to do that. In last year’s budget, peat power stations, when in the not too distant there were minor tax breaks for a small number future we will seek to replace peat as an energy of pilot projects in bio-fuel and biomass, in spite source, because it is a finite resource and there of the fact that wood biomass plantations would are much cleaner ways of producing power than grow more efficiently in Ireland than in any other burning peat. Obviously a change cannot happen EU country and that we have more consistent overnight, because a great many jobs are depen- and stronger wind speed than any other EU coun- dent on the peat industry. We need to discuss try and very suitable tidal conditions for power how peat as an energy source would be replaced generation. over a phased period. The Bill has provided a useful opportunity to make some general comments on the energy mar- Mr. D. Ahern: : That is Fine Gael policy. ket. What is being proposed, on balance, is worth supporting. The ESB is a good company that has Mr. Coveney: The Minister may check it. I served Ireland well and has provided a consistent think it is healthy to put my thought out for dis- supply of energy which is fundamental to the cussion. We should consider over a phased period marketplace. The ESB has requested to increase replacing peat with biomass, which is far more its borrowing capacity and what is being proposed efficient in terms of CO2 emissions. Wood is not unreasonable. I am happy to support it. biomass is neutral in terms of carbon emissions. While it offers huge potential as a crop that can Mr. Broughan: On behalf of the Labour Party, be grown on both set-aside and bogland, I take a I welcome the Bill. The Minister has explained in cautious approach towards it because of the tran- detail the background to the Bill and the necess- sition period that is required in phasing it in and ity for its speedy passage through the Oireachtas. 291 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 292

[Mr. Broughan.] I omitted to congratulate my colleague Deputy I know that all Stages were taken in the Seanad Coveney on his recent magnificent election to the during one afternoon. Given the liquidity of the European Parliament. As a result of his achieve- ESB, it is imperative that the Bill is passed as ment and that of Proinsias De Rossa in my party, soon as possible so that the ESB can increase its and of all our colleagues in the local elections we borrowing to \6 billion. may have a new Minister for Communications, The ESB has made a massive capital invest- Marine and Natural Resources in the autumn ment. A few months ago I, together with my who might have a different point of view and we Dublin city north side and west side colleagues, ought to reflect on this. were briefed on the expansion of the network on The Labour Party firmly believes the ESB is a the north side and west side of Dublin. In my con- key national distribution network and its key stituency an additional 15,000 to 20,000 homes assets should remain in public ownership. We and several thousand businesses will be built in should avoid a disastrous outcome such as we saw the next five to ten years, necessitating a massive with regard to broadband and which we have dis- expansion of the network. We welcomed the cussed many times with this Minister over the briefing on how the additional moneys being gen- past two years. We must learn from the telecom- erated by the ESB, through its core business munications experience. The Minister has clearly activity and its loan facility, is being invested in outlined the financial background to the Bill and the Dublin network. The chairman, Tadhg to the extension of the borrowing limits and other O’Donoghue, pointed out recently that there has credits available to the ESB. I warmly welcome been a quantum leap in electricity demand of the projected \4 billion of capital expenditure on approximately 41% in the past ten years, the era investment over the coming years, and the \650 of the Celtic tiger, and there is a projected con- billion which was spent last year on 7,000 kilo- sistent rise in electricity demand over the com- metres of distribution network. I add my con- ing years. gratulations to those of the Minister to the ESB The Minister has explained why it was neces- and its 8,300 staff on their achievements over the sary to recast section 4 of the 1954 Act in detail. past 80 years. It is interesting in that context that a few months Like other Deputies I am an avid reader of ago he seemed to react with consternation at a Electric Mail and follow as closely as possible the successful public placement by the ESB on the key developments which the company has pur- New York market. Several Sunday newspapers, sued in recent times. It has taken many innov- including The Sunday Business Post, reported that he was livid and hopping mad when the ESB ative steps such as the commitment to the all- secured additional liquidity in the region of \850 Ireland market about which the chief executive million by this placement. Pa´draig McManus spoke in the context of the Both the chief executive and the chairman deal with Northern Ireland Electricity, the explained in detail at the time the efficient man- Ballylongford station, and the long-standing ner in which the ESB, as a national semi-State achievements of ESBI in the English market company, could secure additional resources and since 1992 where it recently purchased a major pointed out the various parameters of the man- power station at Southampton with the capacity agement of the company’s financial resources and to generate 800 MW of electricity. Its support for its successful construction of the electricity net- the all-Ireland market and recently for the two work which has been the backbone of our econ- islands interconnector indicates that the ESB is omy for 80 years. It was necessary to minimise prepared to deal with the competitive market the cost of debt through the company’s strong which will develop in these islands. relationship with several banks, especially the We have often raised issues concerning wind European Investment Bank to which the Minister power, especially the disappointing failure to referred, and the company was able to take advance its role in our electricity generation mix advantage of several maturities and competitive and some of the problems which have arisen in interest rates on markets such as New York with County Mayo and elsewhere. One of the funda- banks such as ABN AMRO and Barclays Capital. mental problems is that the market in the There was a reasonably consistent and prudent Republic is very small, approximately the same approach to the additional financing of the com- size as Kent in England. There were problems pany in that placement last December. If true, the with the expected expansion of renewable energy Minister’s consternation was misplaced. and the 2010 target. It is to be welcomed that we There are powerful forces in our society which can look to a larger energy market for the future. would like us to travel the Eircom route with the Denmark, which has a splendid track record in ESB and electricity generation and distribution, the use of wind power and produces the equiv- which my party believes would be a disastrous alent of 60% of the total Irish electricity gener- mistake to be avoided at all costs. I am therefore ation output, is part of a much wider, larger and glad to hear the Minister reiterate the statements greater electricity grid than ours. It is to be hoped he made on the key assets of the ESB at a recent that this development and the recent decisions on meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the grid code will allow wind power to take up Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the role which it merits in the future development and that he has no intention of privatising them. in the market. 293 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 294

On this Bill, I asked the Taoiseach a couple of The position for commercial and industrial weeks ago why the House did not have a Green users is particularly acute. Spokespersons on Paper on electricity generation and the energy energy in this House have been made aware of market two years ago to which all parties could widespread criticism of the increase in prices. have made an input. There could have been a Organisations such as the Small Firms Associ- process by which the Oireachtas Joint Committee ation and ISME have constantly pointed to this on Communications, Marine and Natural as a key reason behind the need for a much more Resources would have been involved with the efficient energy market. Electricity is important Department in bringing forward some of the most to Irish industry, particularly in terms of our his- advanced ideas for the development of our elec- tory as a location for computing and data centres, tricity market. Instead we are bringing forward chip manufacturing etc. I welcome the Minister’s this Bill, which I support, to extend the borrowing recent statement that national competitiveness capacity of the ESB but we are unsure of the will have to be a key element considered by Mr. future shape and structures of the electricity mar- Tom Reeves. Energy inputs have a key role in ket. The Minister occasionally comments on how that regard. he foresees the market but does not give us any Householders would have expected that with considered views, as he did in his opposition to liberalisation of the market and deregulation in privatisation of the national grid, perhaps under recent years, they would receive far lower rather pressure from the Labour Party and other parties than far higher electricity bills. There appears to in the House. be an incredible inconsistency as regards the A few months ago, Deputy Eamon Ryan and I development of so-called competition in this tried to table parliamentary questions in respect country. The problem of high prices has been of the grid code for wind but the Ceann Comh- exacerbated by a recent Government decision. airle rejected them on the basis that it was a mat- The Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, ter for the Commission for Energy Regulation, who, we have heard, is in his last few months as CER, and Mr. Tom Reeves, who is responsible Minister for Finance and who a massive majority for deciding these issues, which are vital for the of Fianna Fa´il voters believe should be moved future of our country and our economy. It is com- sideways as soon as possible, saw the ESB as an pletely inappropriate that Members cannot dis- easy target from which to grab huge dividends of cuss any aspect of the future evolution of the almost \40 million and \70 million last year. This electricity market. fact provides some of the background to the Bill I deeply regret that the Minister, Deputy because it meant that the ESB had to seek higher Dermot Ahern, has not seen fit to provide a frank prices and a higher borrowing limit. exposition of the likely evolution of the market, The generation of electricity and the necessity as he sees it, and how the structure will develop. to have the most efficient system relating thereto There are many areas he has not addressed in should be more important than a Progressive that regard which, therefore, makes matters prob- Democrats-inclined Minister for Finance who is lematic in terms of the future development of simply anxious to balance books no matter what energy markets here. happens, even to the poorest households in this There are far more pressing issues relating to country. The latter often try desperately to pay electricity generation and supply than those dealt electricity bills with the help of MABS, organis- with in the Bill. Some people might inquire ations such as the Society of the St. Vincent de whether there should be a statutory limit on bor- Paul and community welfare officers. rowing or whether the level of such borrowing The Minister has a key responsibility, before should be left to the commercial discretion of the he leaves the Department, to spell out what has members of the board, particularly in light of the gone wrong with the introduction of a so-called ESB’s achievements in our economy in recent electricity market. He cannot say that the model years. the Government has adopted has worked. That There are many fundamental issues which have model has resulted in severe price inflation and not been addressed. The cost of electricity in problems in respect of the maintenance of the Ireland has risen rapidly in recent years. The capital equipment of the electricity grid. trend is much more pronounced here than in These are important issues and we could have other EU member states. As a result, Ireland has expected that they would have been addressed in moved from being about the EU average in terms this debate. As before, however, on the brief of electricity prices to having the second highest occasions during Question Time etc. when we priced electricity in the Union. Apparently, Italy have had an opportunity to discuss the electricity is the most expensive country in this regard. market and developments in electricity gener- There has been a series of price hikes, amounting ation, the Minister has refused to provide a broad to 29% in total, in the past couple of years. These idea of how he intends matters to develop. hikes were approved by the CER. As regards the We believe that the role of the ESB in terms price increase which is in the offing, all the Mini- of the national grid is critical. Like other ster, Deputy Dermot Ahern, will state is that the Deputies and spokespersons, I spoke to represen- ESB will have to find more efficiencies within its tatives of the company in recent times in terms of structures to bear the additional cost of oil and its role in maintaining public control of the key deal with some of the other issues that have national electricity infrastructure. We must ask arisen. whether the statutory instrument of 2000 which 295 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 296

[Mr. Broughan.] tricity supply gives rise to concern. I welcome the established the national grid has been adhered to. east-west interconnector and the all-Ireland mar- I do not support the director of the Competition ket which I hope can give us the necessary secur- Authority who, like many others, wants to break ity in future. We must at all costs avoid the disas- the ESB up into a series of different companies. trous events in North America which began in My reasons for this were outlined in my earlier Ontario and southern Canada and spread into the comments regarding the telecommunications north-west United States, and the similar events break-up. in Italy and Austria where one system knocked I commend the 8,300 staff of the ESB who have out other systems. That should never be permit- dealt with some of the difficult issues to which I ted to happen here. That is a key responsibility refer with determination and confidence during of the Minister, the ESB, the national grid and the past four to five years. They currently own the distribution company, and I would have wel- just 5% of the company. To defend the interests comed some comment from him in this regard. of those workers, trade union leaders put forward A major contributing factor to the problem is far-reaching demands in recent times. It is normal that plant was allowed to decline. The significant and necessary that trade unionists should protect investment being undertaken will increase the the workers they represent. However, the capacity of generators from 77% up to the interests of our nation require that this company required level of 95%. This area needs to be should not be privatised and should not take the urgently addressed. I welcome the security of route followed in respect of Eircom. I commend supply which the Bill will provide to the ESB. the staff on their tremendous confidence. The A lengthy debate has taken place on wind role of this semi-State company in the history of power. Environmental and ecological disasters this country cannot be over-emphasised. have occurred at Derrybrien and other locations. Throughout the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s, when There have also been problems regarding the grid many parts of Ireland did not have electricity, this code and security of supply from wind. The Mini- valiant and determined company created a basic ster has considerable responsibility after AER VI infrastructure. It has kept pace, in good times, to try to ensure we move to a position where with the economy, though only just barely in instead of being bottom or close to bottom of the recent years. The programme of action for com- league for electricity generation from wind and petitiveness and transparency, PACT, agreement other renewable energy, Ireland will see an is extremely important in that regard. I wish the improvement in its position. The Minister has a management and staff of the ESB well in the significant responsibility in this regard. future as developments occur relating to some of The Minister has had little to say on other the issues to which I refer. renewable energy such as solar heating, biomass There were many other matters with which the or any other energy sources that might be avail- Minister, who, unfortunately, is not present in the able to us. I accept that a White Paper was pro- Chamber, might have dealt. I refer to my ques- duced a few years ago, but in recent times we tion about the preferred or successful bidders — have not had any dramatic policy announce- Aughinish Alumina and Tynagh Energy — for ments. When one looks back at the Minister’s two recently announced generating stations and announcements in his first year in office, it is the reports received about these companies. regrettable we have achieved so little in the Many people see the recent price rises as the intervening period. core problem in the energy market. Households With those caveats, I welcome the Bill which is have suffered most in that regard, as is evident necessary to provide for the infrastructural needs from successive significant increases of the ESB. I urge the Minister, especially in 6 o’clock in recent ESB bills. Meters were not advance of the major electricity Bill he is always adjusted to reflect the increases in promising us, to share with us his thoughts and 20,000 low-income households and, as recently as those of the Department regarding the future a few days ago, it appeared these householders structures of the electricity market. I welcome would be responsible for the shortfall. The com- that, like us, he appears to have learned the les- munity and public service role of the ESB is sig- son of what happened in the telecommunications nificant and must remain so. The closure of 27 area and is trying to ensure we do not go down ESB shops also impacted on low-income families the same disastrous road. Having said that, the in terms of securing electrical products at com- Labour Party warmly welcomes the Bill. petitive prices and interest-free credit. Unfortu- nately, the Minister has not addressed these Mr. Eamon Ryan: I wish to share time with issues. Deputy Finian McGrath. Security of supply is of the utmost importance. A number of imported stand-by generators had Acting Chairman (Dr. Cowley): Is that to be used by the ESB in successive winters to agreed? Agreed. keep pace with the needs of our developing econ- omy. Much of the difficulty in this regard has Mr. Eamon Ryan: My colleague, Deputy arisen from the convoluted and unsuccessful way Broughan, said it was unfortunate the Minister in which liberalisation and deregulation has been was not present to hear what he had to say. It is implemented. The precarious nature of the elec- not unfortunate; it is typical he is not here to 297 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 298 listen to what we have to say. It may be a small In a recent committee meeting the Minister matter for discussion whether we should issue \4 acknowledged that the desired split of the ESB, billion to a specific company. It may not be of between the transmission network company, much concern to the Minister to know the which I believe was meant to be called Eirgrid, opinion of Opposition spokespersons who work and the rest of the company, has not taken place. on a committee dealing specifically with this He said humbly that he could not do anything issue. about it because of some industrial relations diffi- It is another example of the arrogance that culties surrounding the issue. I am not sure what characterises the Government. A Minister asked those difficulties are. It is remarkable that a yesterday for an example of the Government’s Government that can relocate the civil servants of arrogance. This is an example of arrogance the State throughout the country on the apparent towards this House, the Opposition parties and whim of the Minister for Finance cannot divide the people. Perhaps I would not feel so strongly out two separate and distinct wings of the ESB. about this if it were not typical of the Minister for This has significant implications for the develop- Communications, Marine and Natural Resources ment of the electricity market in this country. in the past year. There is not a single occasion on The situation is an example of the status quo which he has attended a Second Stage debate to being left in place. I am told that the difficulties hear what Opposition spokespersons have to say. concern industrial relations and the pay and con- In some cases we could have spent a year or two ditions that would go with the separation into two devising policies and opinions. We have some- companies. It is understandable that employees thing to say, yet the Minister never stays to hear would have concerns. However, there is a wider what it is. issue with regard to working conditions in the company. Workers in the rest of the economy Mr. Broughan: He is training to become Mini- must look at ESB conditions and only wish they ster for Finance. could get a job in the company. The Minister described the recent deal with Mr. F. McGrath: Or watching the European regard to Moneypoint as a positive development. championship. It is for the workers involved. Basic pay rates at Moneypoint appear to me a multiple of what is Mr. Eamon Ryan: I find it remarkable. I do typical for other industries, similar craft work or not know what he does. Perhaps he will read this similar industrial enterprises. I do not object to speech at some stage or somebody will raise the the deal. I understand the workers negotiated for matter with him. I am glad at least the Minister the best position and they are getting that. of State at the Department, Deputy Browne, is However, I must ask whether the Government is present, as my Labour Party colleague had the right in allowing the ESB have this special status, Minister of State with responsibility for looking as it appears to me, within the overall industry after Donegal who would have had no interest in and overall working and labour conditions in the what we have to say. It is disgraceful and is worth country. commenting upon. I would be interested in hear- It seems there is special treatment of ESB ing an explanation from the Minister for his non- workers and of executives within the ESB. I ques- attendance during the contributions of spokes- tion whether that status quo is equitable. Is it cor- persons from the Labour Party and the Technical rect for a State company to treat one group of Group when he concludes the Second Stage workers so favourably in comparison with so debate. I am tired of speaking in the Chamber many others who work for the minimum wage or when the preparatory work I have put into my for salaries that do not even add up to the over- speech and in shadowing the Minister to provide time bonus or severance packages granted to cer- a balance and offer different ideas is disregarded tain workers within the ESB? While this question by the Government. I hope that will change may not go down well in union circles, it is an sooner rather than later. issue the Minister should address. I urge him to I disagree with my Fine Gael and Labour Party respond and explain the reason for this situation. colleagues because I do not agree with the Bill. I The status quo in the country is also seen in the have serious concerns about what we are doing in breaking up, deregulation and part liberalisation passing it and in what we are doing in regard to of the electricity market. As a consequence, we the development of the ESB. The Bill should be have seen significant price increases amounting to concerned with our plans and strategic vision for 23% in the past two years. We have gone from the ESB and how we want to see the company a situation where we were below the European develop. I do not know the Minister’s plans average in terms of electricity prices, to being sig- because he has not set out any, but I would nificantly above them, especially in the area of extrapolate that it is his intention to let the com- industrial use which has economic consequences. pany be. He is providing it with an extra \4 billion There is no doubt that the liberalisation model to invest as it sees fit and allow the generation, that has been adopted has caused that significant transmission and distribution of electricity to con- price increase. To attract the new capacity we tinue on the basis of the status quo. The status need, the new marginal cost had to be one that quo is not where we should be; we should not be would attract a new private investor and it is happy with it. therefore much higher. The operators in the 299 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 300

[Mr. Eamon Ryan.] are paying very expensively for our peak power industry gain in profits from that new higher mar- supply. ginal cost and, not surprisingly, last year the ESB We are also having great difficulty getting a made after-tax profits of \249 million. The divi- new supply into the country and have only had dend to the State was \67 million. one major new plant in recent years. When the I wonder whether it is the Minister of Finance regulator came before our committee, he said who is directing this status quo policy. He may that if we have further difficulties in that regard, see this dividend as a convenient stealth tax. he will commission the ESB to build a new plant. Effectively it is a tax on one section of society In other words, we will be returning to a day which goes into the Government coffers. This is when a centralised State control of the operations possibly the explanation for the status quo or the is in place. Perhaps that is the way to go. “let it be” attitude to the ESB strategy the However, I would like to know whether that is Government is following. the policy. It is because the Minister is not The Government is also letting matters be with present or because he does not discuss the issue regard to our environmental performance. One or listen to us that we do not know the policy for of the most remarkable comments I have heard the running of the ESB. in my two years in this House is the comment This Bill legislates to allow the company spend \ from the Minister for Communications, Marine 4 billion of borrowed money. It will be able to and Natural Resources that we were victims of borrow the money at a much cheaper rate than our own success in the development of renewable its competitors because of the arrangements we energy. We were setting the world alight with 200 set up, which is perhaps fair and right. We should MW of wind power. Could that be believed when also ask how this money will be spent. I get no we only thought we would get 20 MW a year? sense that the Government will have a real say in Every other country in Europe increases its the company as to where and how the money is capacity by thousands of megawatts of wind spent or that it will give direction or look for power each year with only half the wind we have. measures of performance on how it is spent. The Minister’s comment was an incredible The company must make a significant invest- example of his arrogance and inability to listen. ment in the grid and I welcome that. I would like His inability to come in to this Chamber and hear to see that investment structured in a manner where we provide grid capacity to areas from what other people say is so complete that he sees which we will get future supply. In this country, our miserable performance in the development of those areas are the west, the north-west and the renewable energy as a sign of success. It was a south-west, which have significant wind resources remarkable statement. and an amazing wealth of untapped energy. We I agree with Deputy Coveney with regard to should spend our \2 billion investment in the grid our abject failure in the development of biomass building lines to that power source to ensure we and bio-energy products. This is another example can develop it. We can grow wealthy and increase of where the status quo is unacceptable. In a employment from that position. However, we are country with a fantastic climate for such products not doing that but providing where the demand and where farmers are running out of markets is. where they can get decent prices for their new There is no clear direction from this Govern- crops, we should be leading the world. However, ment as to how we should structure this invest- yet again, we are last. We have small experimen- ment or how we should monitor the management tal projects on farms here and there when we of the expenditure of the money. We have quite should, like other countries, be leading the way. happily for the past 20 or 30 years stepped back One final issue in terms of the status quo con- and allowed the ESB run our electricity gener- cerns supply and generation policy and three or ation system. That was a successful policy. The four characteristics relating to it. The most ESB was run by bright and talented people, remarkable characteristic is the incredibly poor mainly from Kerry, over those years. We stood performance of the ESB’s existing plants which back and allowed them run it. As long as they operate at something like 76% capacity. This is, could provide electricity cheaply, that was a suc- by international standards, a mortification. The cessful strategy. ESB is excellent at going round the world advis- In a European context, however, when markets ing developing and other countries on how to run are being liberalised and we are meant to open their generation systems. If the Vietnamese our market and have half done so, that is not power company, which is receiving advice from necessarily the cleverest strategy. It is certainly the ESB, or any other power company ran at a not a strategy to which we should just hand over capacity level of 76%, the ESB engineers, who \4 billion without setting out a policy commit- are bright and excellent, would point out that it ment as to how we want it spent. It is that lack of was a disgraceful performance. However, we can- policy and that incredible failure by the ESB over not get more than a 76% supply from our plant, the past 20 years to invest in renewable alterna- which has huge implications for the price we pay tives and to start becoming a world leader in tidal for our electricity. The real problem is providing power, biomass, wind and other products that one for the peak hours. In circumstances where only must criticise. I am reluctant to give the same 76% of our plant is working at any one time, we people another \4 billion given their dismal fail- 301 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 302 ure record in investment in areas in which I want agree to that proposal and that will rule it out them to invest. as an option, even though it might be the most I can be critical of the company but I am pri- intelligent option. I would like to hear the Mini- marily critical of the Government which did not ster’s view on whether we should be doing that. give direction to the company. It was happy as In those circumstances it is fair for us to hand long as the lights were on and the price was out \4 billion because competition would not be reasonably cheap. It did not have any real affected and other companies would be disadvan- thought for the future. That attitude is no longer taged in the process. good enough. A possible alternative to bring in competition I want to see significant investment in the area is to split up the ESB generating companies into of energy saving. Intelligent circuitry could be in three or four smaller companies, but not the net- every house and small business. This would allow work, which should never be touched, nor the people to switch off their machines, such as their supply company. I favour a third option which I fridges, during the peak hours around 6.30 p.m. will develop on Committee Stage with the Mini- when everyone comes home and turns on all their ster if he is available. A system of management devices. It would allow a household to decide contracts being issued for the generation stations intelligently that the peak hour electricity is very could be considered. A management contract expensive and is when the most clapped-out ESB could be offered for one or other of the stations. plant — Tarbert — is turned on to provide for it. The contractor could bid into the market and be This is very expensive electricity because that allowed to innovate, expand and mainly operate plant is only running for that particular period. the company as efficiently as possible. Our gener- We should invest in the cleverest of electronics ation rate could then possibly rise above the which allows householders to avoid that high cost present 76%. I will return to tease out this option by turning off their machines and using them on Committee Stage which I hope happens and instead at 2.30 a.m., in the afternoon or in the which I hope the Minister attends. valley periods. This would be a start to levelling We have a political problem regarding our out our demand for electricity and would be the electricity market and a serious problem for con- smartest investment at present. However, I do sumers because the price is rocketing. We have a not hear the Minister or anyone else from his bad problem with emissions because large Department pushing that as a clever investment amounts of CO2 are being produced. The Mini- strategy. The \4 billion invested in that direction ster has made a conscious decision. While he has would make a significant difference to the envir- done something on broadband and is flush with onment, economy and electricity market. success in fisheries, I think he plans to do nothing I wish to make three final points with regard to in the area of energy. He has decided the Taoi- the structure of the system. It seems to me the seach is sensitive to any unpopular decisions and proposed new market structure, the localised, does not wish the Government to be seen to be marginalised pricing system, if that is the correct doing too much. It is a case of batten down the acronym, will not work and will not be intro- hatches. It may be a dysfunctional status quo but duced. I have spoken to a number of people in it is not worth taking the political risk to do any- different quarters and it seems the complexity, thing about it. That is my reading of the Govern- difficulty and substantial cost involved in the ment’s energy policy, even though energy policy introduction of such a system means it will not is one of the most important areas. The Minister happen. I do not get any sense of direction from needs to change that. I apologise to my colleague the Minister as to that fact. He does not wish to for being late. comment. He has a fantastic system in his Minis- try. Not only does he not appear in the House, Mr. F. McGrath: I thank the House for the he has the system of regulators which look after opportunity to speak in this debate. Before I deal the different departments while he stands back with the details of the Bill, it is important to and says it is nothing to do with him. From what recognise the important and valuable work of the people in the industry say, I believe the new pro- ESB. It has a proud record of service and a his- posed system will not work and a different one tory built on compassion and service to the will be required. I would like to hear a direction people. Long may that continue. It is essential from the Minister as to what system he thinks will that this national resource is protected, nurtured be viable and how we should proceed in that and developed in a way that suits our citizens and regard. its customers. This national gem must be sup- This may be controversial and may be where I ported in a practical way and that is the reason I would disagree with my colleagues, Deputies support this legislation. Broughan and Finian McGrath, I think we must In the past our people did not have electrical examine the structure of the ESB. I do not think power in their homes and many died in poverty the status quo is the correct way to go. There are and from the cold. That reality should not be for- three possible choices which we can make. There gotten. The ESB played a significant role in sav- could be a return to the centralised control sys- ing lives. tem which, in an electricity market the size of The purpose of this Bill is to raise the ESB’s Ireland, is regarded by many people as the most statutory borrowing limit. It will facilitate the intelligent and the one that works best. Over the major infrastructure investment programme 20 years when we left it to the clever Kerry being undertaken by the ESB. This includes sig- people to run our electricity system, they did a nificant investment in renewing and upgrading good job. I do not think the European Union will the electricity network. The statutory borrowing 303 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 304

[Mr. F. McGrath.] voltage transmission system and the owner and limit stands at \2.03 billion and has remained operator of the medium and lower voltage distri- unchanged for the past 22 years. The new Bill bution system. It provides services to all 1.7 mill- proposes raising this limit to \6 billion to take ion electricity customers and all generators and account of the reality of today’s economy. I wel- suppliers of electricity in the Twenty-six come this proposal. Counties. Management of the finances of the ESB is a With the opening to competition of the elec- matter for the board and management of the tricity market, it is essential that ESB Networks, company. The board has discharged its fiduciary which will remain a monopoly business in the new duty prudently down through the years, with market, provides service on a transparent and some minor exceptions. Towards the end of last equal basis to all electricity customers, irrespec- year, the ESB became more acutely aware of the tive of which electricity supplier they use. This constraint which the existing borrowing limit requirement is clearly set out in the legislation exerted on the company. It became apparent that establishing new electricity market structures and for the company to accomplish its significant capi- is incorporated into the licence issued to the ESB tal expenditure programme, it would need to rely by the Commission for Energy Regulation. more extensively on its borrowing capacity and It is important in the context of a debate on the that it could not continue business as usual within ESB and power to put on record our opposition the confines of the existing limit. The ESB’s bor- to nuclear power and any attempt by energy com- rowing level is now very close to the existing panies to introduce nuclear power to this country. limit. The urgent passing of this legislation is When such attempts were made in the past, the therefore absolutely essential for the company to people reacted positively by rejecting nuclear continue to operate effectively. That is the reason power. I support this Bill. As regards market opening, 56% of the elec- While dealing with the ESB and the wider issue tricity market had been opened to competition by of public services in general, the lesson from February 2004 and the market will be fully open recent elections is that people are demanding to competition in 2005. The ESB has facilitated quality services and saying “no” to the quick buck this process. It is important to recognise, for brigade who seem to be obsessed with their priv- example, that the company has made virtual inde- atisation agenda. This obsession is reflected in the Government and particularly in the Cabinet. pendent power available at discount prices to the They must be stopped in their tracks. As legis- independent supply sector. lators, we must be the watchdogs for organis- Ireland has one of the fastest growing elec- ations such as the ESB. tricity markets in the developed world. Record Its record speaks for itself. The ESB was growth of more than 40% was recorded in the founded in 1927 as a statutory corporation in the past ten years. This is far ahead of growth in the Twenty-six Counties. It is 95%-owned by the rest of Europe and a massive vote of confidence Government with the remaining shares held by in the staff of the ESB. It shows the company’s the employees’ share option trust. The ESB is a great potential for development and wealth vertically integrated utility and includes a number creation. It is up to us to ensure we listen to the of divisions which are ring-fenced and operate message of the recent elections and distribute independently in the electricity market. The ESB wealth fairly. group employs approximately 8,500 people. It is The sheer number of staff in the ESB — 8,000 the leading Irish company in the energy utility — indicates the potential for development. We sector. I welcome these progressive facts about have come a long way in creating Ireland’s prem- the ESB. It is a significant resource employing ier electricity utility. I state this confidently but 8,500 people. with positive criticism. History shows that in the The ESB power generation operates 19 major 19th century, the electrical revolution sweeping power stations, covering hydro-electric gener- the rest of the developed world seemed set to ation and stations powered by coal, oil, gas and bypass Ireland. Only a few selected locations had peat. A subsidiary company, Hibernian Wind this incredible new power source on tap. Thanks Power, owns and operates wind farms. I wish to to the determination of a handful of far-sighted put on the record my concern about some of the people, however, electricity was soon to take its operations of Hibernian Wind Power which have first steps towards becoming the indispensable caused serious damage to the environment, power source it has proved to be. especially in parts of Galway and other parts of The pioneers of electricity supply in Ireland are the country. We must wake up to the reality that remembered in a stone which commemorates the any involvement in these projects must be prop- building of a power station at the Pigeon House erly researched and examined. The geology of an for the Dublin Corporation electricity depart- area must be studied in a professional manner. ment in 1903. The original building, modernised That is my one major criticism regarding these and re-equipped, still stands. It is a very small but issues. We cannot have landslides destroying little historical part of the electricity generation and villages, towns and communities. supply system of the Electricity Supply Board. The ESB is a major supplier of power to dom- As long ago as 1915, a civil engineer, Theodore estic and business customers. The Commission Stevens, investigated the possibility of generating for Energy Regulation, CER, oversees charges electricity from the River Shannon on behalf of made by the public electricity supplier to cus- the Irish hydro-electric syndicate. This project, tomers. ESB Networks is the owner of the high like an earlier one in 1901, was not developed 305 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 306 and, in 1918, our water powered resources were The ESB has stood the test of time as a State discussed again without action being taken. and semi-State body, providing an essential ser- When the State was founded in 1922, it was vice at a competitive price for industry. Deputies clear that to progress industrially, it would have on the right and left have a tendency to come to develop and use its natural resources. An Irish down on one side or the other as regards State engineer, Dr. Thomas A. McLoughlin, submitted and semi-State bodies. The former take the proposals for damming the River Shannon and approach that the only way forward is privatis- building an electric power station at Ardnacru- ation, while the latter regard nationalisation as sha, a few miles from Limerick, which would the only way forward. We should have a mix of bring power to cities and towns. The concept was both approaches. There is no reason they cannot bold and radical and his initiative was rewarded co-exist for the benefit of the country, the econ- when a German engineering company was auth- omy and the industries in question. orised by the Government to prepare a detailed As we all know, competition is the lifeblood of scheme to be submitted to a group of inter- trade. Sectors with effective competition, whether national experts. With minor modifications, the public or private, are inevitably competitive. Shannon scheme was approved in a report pub- They give out competitive vibes and go about lished in the spring of 1925. This is the history their business in a competitive manner. When and background of the ESB, one of which we one looks back, one finds that the transport sec- should all be proud. tor was difficult to deregulate. While some As regards the potential for the ESB in an all- aspects of that deregulation process may not have Ireland market, it is essential that we tap further been helpful, services are now available in areas into the new economic situation, especially since in which it was previously impossible to get the beginning of the peace process. There is sig- transport. nificant potential to develop and expand the I agree with much of what has been said about ESB. Radical and new policies show vision for the success to date of the ESB and its concept. the future. The future holds new challenges in that we have To those who constantly attack the State sector a bigger market with deregulation likely through- and State companies, the ESB is an example of out Europe. Deregulation may become part and a profitable, vibrant company which pays decent parcel of our economic thinking. Ironically, regu- lation of the ESB tends to encourage prices salaries to its employees. We have a group of upwards, which is most unusual. While I am people who, backed by sponsors, want to take aware of the reason this is done, it should also be such companies apart to meet their greedy needs. recognised that those in the business of providing Organisations such as the ESB must be nurtured, alternative energy must bear in mind the need to defended and protected. I also accept that they keep their costs down so that they can compete must modernise in a positive manner. with the ESB. I have serious doubts about the I have addressed the issues of efficiency, mod- theory that is becoming dominant whereby to ernisation and nuclear power. I want to hammer attract more competitors into the market, the cost home that nuclear power is not welcome. There of electricity to both industrial and domestic con- are radical, more creative ways to generate sumers should be increased. This concept could energy and provide services. become part and parcel of future thinking on I welcome the opportunity to put my views on energy provision. It is not good and it will not record. As a backbench Independent Deputy, I work. It could have the opposite effect in a few celebrate the election of two new Independent years, as it may not be as competitive and sharp MEPs, Kathy Sinnott and Deputy Marian edged as it would be if the regulator insisted Harkin, whom I congratulate. The election of two prices were kept down rather than being allowed Independent MEPs and approximately 90 Inde- to creep upwards. pendent councillors has not received sufficient I appreciate a semi-State body such as the ESB coverage. Those elected have been emerging in must have adequate resources to finance future all communities and councils and have now projects at home and abroad. It has been innov- emerged on the European stage. It is important ative at finding ways and means to do so. The that the views of Independent Deputies are schemes referred to by the Minister of State have reflected and I am delighted to express my views been before us for appraisal. Two elements of on energy in this debate. I wish the ESB well and electricity supply are important. Prices must be support the Bill. kept down in so far as is possible because elec- tricity is a basic energy source required by both Mr. Durkan: I compliment the ESB on its work industry and domestic consumers. If one lost sight since it was founded three quarters of a century of that, one would lose sight of the market to ago. It has met challenges as they arose and done which the product is supplied. The knock-on tremendous work to provide electricity. While effect of increased electricity prices would be col- electricity was expensive at times, it is reasonably ossal and stretches beyond electricity generation. competitive at present. Electricity is a basic ingredient for industry and, It is no harm to ponder the Ardnacrusha if it is competitively priced, industry has an scheme for a moment. At the time, it was deemed advantage, but if it is not, industry is placed at to be a white elephant, isolated and surrounded a disadvantage. That can have further knock-on by rabbits. Like Shannon Airport, it would be effects, which would not benefit industry, the regarded as a monument to something of a nega- competitiveness of the economy and the long- tive nature. term prospects for the provision of such energy. 307 Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) 15 June 2004. Bill 2004: Second Stage 308

[Mr. Durkan.] tors are attracted into the workplace through Wind energy is referred to regularly as an alter- increased electricity prices because of the serious native energy source. While I agree with the con- detrimental knock-on effect that could have on cept, I am a little uneasy about it. The masts are industry. not environmentally friendly in terms of their We have experienced a few energy crises in impact on the horizon. I am reminded of Don recent years. There were nationwide blackouts on Quixote, the poor unfortunate guy who got a number of occasions and, in my innocence, I entangled in windmills. There are many around used to table parliamentary questions only to be nowadays who are like Don Quixote. I wonder informed it was no longer a matter for the Mini- if Cervantes had anticipated the effect of giant ster. However, everything is a matter for the windmills on parts of the west, whether he might Minister because he or she is responsible for the have elaborated more on them. ESB and he or she must answer to the House in We all recognise alternative energy sources this regard. While the Minister must answer to must be found and must be as environmentally the House, there is an increased shyness among friendly as possible. Wind energy is more expens- some Ministers, although not the Minister of ive to produce but it is more environmentally State who is present. Some of his colleagues are friendly, excepting the visual impact of wind remarkably shy when it comes to asking simple farms. I would not like a scenario where every questions about State and semi-State bodies for hilltop would be festooned with masts revolving which they have responsibility. When power cuts frantically, given the amount of wind and hot air take place intermittently, there is a need for generated in the State. The first wind generating action and the Minister should be prepared to masts were built in Idaho and there was a diffi- answer to the House at all times because such culty with the amount of wind available there. I cuts have widespread consequences. Knowing assure the Minister of State there would be no what has happened in parts of the UK and US, such difficulty in Ireland. If wind was not readily these events happen overnight at peak power available, it would be produced locally. We recog- times and it is not just a small area concerned nise and support the need for alternative energy which is affected. Often vast areas are affected sources but there is not much sense in adopting with negative consequences for industrial and them if they result in increased costs to industry domestic consumers. which may be prohibitive in terms of competi- I recognise the need for increased borrowing tiveness. The regulator has dual problems but he requirements. That must be dealt with on an should bear competition in mind. ongoing basis and I hope the legislation will not I refer to wave energy, to which we can look encourage increases in electricity prices. Many forward. We have been told for the past ten years consumers have recently received peculiar bills that the technology has not been sufficiently because of someone’s failure to read the meters advanced to even consider its introduction. It has or for some other reason I dealt recently with the not advanced because alternative energy sources case of an unfortunate person who received a bill are available and there is no great urgency to pro- for \400 when the bill is normally approximately ceed with wave energy production. When pro- \60 per month. That is due to a cost-saving exer- gress is made on wave energy, it will be much cise of one kind or another, although those exer- more accessible, efficient and effective than a cises should not be necessary in the ESB at number of alternative energy sources under con- present given its solvency. sideration. Wave energy will prove to be more acceptable because of its visual impact on the Mr. Ring: I am glad to address this proposal to landscape and it is likely to provide continuous allow the ESB to borrow more money. It is no power at a lower cost than had been anticipated wonder that organisation needs to borrow money because it will be based on the principle under- because it is probably the most inefficient outfit pinning hydroelectric schemes, which have stood we have ever seen, and I will give some examples the test of time. Such energy would ensure elec- of that. The Minister will let the ESB borrow tricity costs are kept in check so that industry money but when it is in difficulty, it contacts the can prevail. regulator. The regulator and the ESB should both The Minister of State referred to various alter- be sacked because he has let the company get native energy sources, including gas, which is away with murder. On three occasions last year important. The effectiveness of converting from he allowed ESB charges to be increased but, as one energy to another is determined by the Deputy Durkan said, when one asks the Minister efficiency of the conversion, whether it is from a question in the Da´il, he says he has no power coal, gas, wind, wave or oil to electricity. Each in this area because the regulator has the power. much be examined in turn to assess the best way The regulator was appointed to regulate, but if to make the conversion because, originally, gas his only job is to allow increases in the ESB’s conversion was not great in terms of efficiency prices, then that is a problem for me, consumers but that has improved. and business. People complain about ESB The legislation is a requirement. The ESB, of charges. If that organisation borrows money and its own volition, must look to the future differ- gets into more difficulties, that will come back to ently from the way it did in the past. New compe- consumers and taxpayers, with the regulator bail- tition rules and deregulation have changed the ing it out later. landscape of energy provision and the ESB must I have some harsh things to say about the clos- examine how it can compete with its rivals. There ure of Bellacorick power station but I will first should be less emphasis on ensuring its competi- inform the House why the ESB is inefficient, and 309 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 310 the Minister of State should respond to this. It supply. Something must be done because people has been brought to my attention that the ESB are getting angry. There are ESB and telecom bought a generator to use in Ireland and which it poles in all corners of the country and someone had in storage in Holland. It cost millions of euro will be killed by one. However, it will take a court but, once bought, the company found it did not case before the Department, the ESB and Eircom suit the purpose for which it had been bought. act. At the end of the day, the ESB is controlled Storage costs had to be paid for years and then by the taxpayer and the Minister of the day. It the generator was sold at a loss to South Africa. should not charge people the kind of money it An Irish person wanted to buy the generator to does to remove these poles. try to re-open Bellacorick. The minute the ESB The Acting Chairman will support me when I heard that person was interested in Ireland, the say that there is no need to close Bellacorick generator was advertised for sale in European power station and that it should be modernised and world magazines and was sold, even though instead. There is no doubt that the staff are there it had been in cold storage for two years, costing and we need the power. We are told by every the taxpayers a fortune. The Minister of State report that the west needs power, and we were should respond to that and if he wants more warned last year that the increasing number of details, I will have them for him tomorrow. businesses and people means there will not be The Acting Chairman, Deputy Cowley, is a enough power. It is important in terms of jobs, constituency colleague of mine. Many people power and to ensure those in the west have the working in Bellacorick will lose their jobs in the same advantages as everyone else that Bellacor- next year or so, but there was no need to close ick power station is up and running. that power station. It could have been modern- I want a guarantee from the Minister and the ised and if the Minister had had the will and the Department that if we allow the ESB to increase commitment to the west, that would have hap- its borrowings to up to \650 million for network pened. The ESB gave information to Bord na and infrastructure, it will not come back to the Mo´ na about the amount of peat in the area which Minister or the taxpayer if it runs its business could have lasted another 20 to 40 years. The badly and finds itself in difficulty again. The ESB minute the ESB found out someone was has run its business badly in the past, especially interested in trying to set up a power station in when one sees what happened with the generator the area, it sent its staff to destroy the bogs so to which I referred. nobody else could do anything with them. It is amazing that when there was talk of Debate adjourned. closing Rhode, Shannonbridge, Lanesboro, Cahirciveen and Bellacorick, the two power stations to be modernised were in Lanesboro and Private Members’ Business. Shannonbridge. Shannonbridge is in the constitu- ency of the Ta´naiste of Fianna Fa´il, the Minister Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: Motion. for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Cowen. Why could not one of those stations have been opened and Mr. J. O’Keeffe: I move: one station left open in the west? We have the That Da´il E´ ireann peat, the people and the need for power, yet it did not happen. Were those political decisions? — noting the commitment in the pro- People refer to subsidies for the west but the gramme for Government to increase the numbers of gardaı´ by 2,000; Minister of State should address the massive sub- sidies for the power stations in Lanesboro and — noting conflicting statements by Mini- Shannonbridge. The EU and the Irish taxpayer sters in recent weeks concerning the are subsidising those but what was wrong with closure of Garda stations; subsidising and modernising Bellacorick? We could have kept jobs in a disadvantaged area — noting increasing public concern about which had peat and which needs power. What the unacceptable level of public order was wrong with keeping that station open? The offences; political will to do so did not exist. — deploring the Government’s delay in The taxpayers bailed out the ESB, just as they publishing the SMI Report on Garda bailed out Telecom E´ ireann in the past. However, Sı´ocha´na Structures and Organisations the latest from the ESB is that it will cost \10,000 to \15,000 to move one of its poles. It is time the — demands that the Government immedi- Minister and his Department spelled out some ately publish this report and indicate home truths to the ESB. The taxpayers kept that how its commitment in the programme company alive and bailed it out when it was los- for Government to increase garda num- ing millions of euro. Let us not crucify the man bers will be met. building a house in rural Ireland by charging him I wish to share my time with Deputies O’Dowd, \12,000 to connect to the ESB. There is no com- McCormack and Ring. petition in this market. That person cannot price I take the view that our Garda force is not a someone else to connect to their power. political pawn to be manipulated for the benefit It is time the ESB was told to be realistic. It is of the political parties in Government. This the company’s job to supply power to people in applies whether the Minister, Deputy McDowell, their homes. It is not the job of the people to pay is making empty promises about increasing garda for poles to connect rural houses to the electricity numbers or whether he is avoiding straight 311 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 312

[Mr. J. O’Keeffe.] the gardaı´ and those communities. What is also answers on the closure or downgrading of Garda important that the Garda Sı´ocha´na can give great stations. Now the elections are over and the service when it has information. The more Garda Government parties have got an appropriate stations, whether in the inner cities or in rural response from the people, we need a post-11 June areas, the more information available to members version from the Minister on plans for the of the force serving in them. Garda Sı´ocha´na. That gives rise to the question of the position An important report has been on the Minister’s on Garda stations. What is their future? What is desk for the past six months. The information in the situation in regard to the downgrading or this report was paid for by the public. The public otherwise of Garda stations? I am totally con- is a stakeholder in the outcome of this report. I fused. In Templemore last month, it was reported am strongly of the view that the public is entitled that the Minister clearly indicated some Garda to the publication of the report so that it can stations were to close. I understand that was not debate it and be consulted on it. I also take the in his script, which makes it even more confusing. view that the 12,000 men and women in the If Garda stations are to close, the Minister should Garda Sı´ocha´na are entitled to see that report make a clear statement on the issue and give us because they are not only stakeholders but share- the list of the stations he has in mind. holders in the future of the Garda Sı´ocha´na and To make the issue even more confusing, there are entitled to be fully consulted and to have their was a statement from the Minister’s colleague, views taken into account. What we do not want the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, on local is the drip-feed to the media on the basis of suit- radio in his area categorically stating that no ing the Minister in regard to information in that Garda stations would close in Laoighis-Offaly. report. I say publish and be damned. The public Has he seen the list or is he merely improvising is entitled to the full information in that report, on the hoof for local consumption in Laoighis- as is the Garda Sı´ocha´na. If the Minister has any- Offaly? What is needed is a full and comprehen- thing to say or any announcements to make on sive statement on this issue. According to news- the report, any such announcements can only be paper reports on future plans for the Garda considered in the context of the publication of the Sı´ocha´na, there is a suggestion that a range of full report, otherwise it cannot be properly stations will be downgraded. Such downgrading assessed. would obviously have implications for the service Since the foundations of the State, the Garda and the numbers available in such stations as well Sı´ocha´na has provided unrivalled service and as for opening hours. marvellous commitment. The Garda was one of I cannot emphasise too much the importance the first pillars of the State to be put in place by of the Minister’s being absolutely up front on this the provisional Government in 1923. I do not issue. The local elections are over and the people believe I would be overstating it if I said it was have made it clear they are not satisfied with the an institution of the State. Despite occasional way this Government is carrying on its business. criticisms, there is an incredible degree of good- One of the major changes which must take place will towards the Garda. People have confidence is that all members of this Government should be in the gardaı´ and they take great comfort from open, transparent and honest. I suggest that is seeing a garda on the beat, but there is a problem. even more important in the case of the Minister, When travelling to Leinster House — I come a Deputy McDowell, in regard to Garda stations. long distance from west Cork — there is a fair The same issue arises in regard to the equip- chance that the only garda I am likely to see will ping of the Garda Sı´ocha´na. A recent case in the be at the gates of the House. Why is that? We District Court in Cork showed that the law did must consider that fact. Having gardaı´ on the beat not match the equipment the Garda Sı´ocha´na had not only eases the mind of the public, but it or possibly the equipment did not match the law. thwarts the deeds of the criminal. Since this What was absolutely clear in that case was that Government came to power seven years ago, it the Garda was not being properly equipped with has choked the resources of the Garda to such an modern equipment to enable it to enforce the extent that it is now quite rare to see a garda on law. The modern criminal is very much up to pace the beat. on the issue of technology. Modern technology Another important point to make in regard to enables criminals to operate in a different way the Garda Sı´ocha´na is that it is an unarmed force. and, therefore, as far as technology is concerned, It is a point I need to make because one of the the gardaı´ must be in a position to cope with any many passing references from the Minister which modern advances. got a headline some months ago was one to the In the case of drug dealing, the idea of drugs possible arming of gardaı´, which would be a disas- being exchanged on the streets is gone. I under- trous mistake. stand there are few street corner drug dealers. The motion leads off on the question of Garda The modern modus operandi is dial-a-deal. The station closures. Local Garda stations serve a far dealer has a car and a mobile telephone and is, greater purpose than one might initially believe. in many instances, untraceable. They do more than serve as an office for the From the point of view of equipment, gardaı´ gardaı´; they are a focal point in the communities must be fully resourced, but they have not been. which they serve. They serve as a link between A commitment must be given by the Minister for 313 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 314

Justice, Equality and Law Reform in terms of the recognised by everybody, yet the commitment to balance of resources available during the remain- provide them has not been kept. What is the der of his term of office. Minister’s reaction to the failure to honour that The real problem facing the Garda Sı´ocha´na is commitment? What strategy will be put in place the lack of numbers. This problem has long been to address this need over the next two years, or recognised. It is not rocket science. It was fully is the Minister throwing in the towel on address- admitted and isolated by the Fianna Fa´il Party ing this issue? and the Progressive Democrats as the main issue On that front, another aspect must be taken regarding the Garda Sı´ocha´na prior to the last into account. We should be slow to send young election. That resulted in a clear and unequivocal offenders of perpetrators of minor crimes to pri- commitment from both parties to increase Garda son. We should use alternative strategies to deal numbers. There was no doubting the figures. It with them. There is a need for prisons, but there was proposed to employ 2,000 extra gardaı´,in is some confusion about the issue. The Minister addition to the 11,800 gardaı´ already employed. made announcements about building new pri- That promise was reinforced in the programme sons, but these are plans on paper. It will be many for Government entered into immediately after years before new prisons are built whereas a the election, yet what has happened? It is not number of prisons have been closed but that is only that the extra numbers have not been pro- not set out on a paper plan. Approximately, one vided, but what is worse, from the point of view in every 20 convicted criminals is on early or tem- of the Garda Sı´ocha´na and members of the public porary release. There is a shortage of prison who want them, the necessary facilities to provide places. Our prison system runs at about 98% of for extra gardaı´ have not even been put in place. capacity every day. We seem to be rapidly head- Other than an occasional promise or a headline ing back to the revolving door syndrome. It is from the Minister, there is not even a draft plan important that the Minister’s plans in that regard to put in place the necessary facilities which will are fully spelt out. start the process of increasing the output from The motion notes the commitment to increase Templemore. The college there is now operating Garda numbers by 2,000. It also notes the con- at full capacity. It is not possible for extra num- flicting statements concerning the closure of bers to be trained there on the basis of existing Garda stations. The Government should let the facilities. It is time we knew exactly what will public know what is planned. Making vague, gen- happen. eral policy statements and then expecting the At one stage when this matter was raised with Garda Sı´ocha´na to bear the political flack the Minister, it elicited the usual weasel words, because of restricted budgets is not the way to “when economic circumstances permit”. There deal with this issue. It is important that we have was no question of economic circumstances being clear statements from the political head respon- a factor when these promises were made. In any sible, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law event the figures show that economic circum- Reform, and if there is political flack, it is not in stances are not an issue. The promise that was the interests of members of the Garda Sı´ocha´na made should be kept. I want the Minister to now that it is diverted to them. The Minister is paid to spell out exactly the Government’s intention in take the flack. The approach I outlined is not an this respect and what will be done to address this acceptable one to be followed by the Govern- need during the remaining few years of the life- ment or the Minister. time of this Government. Unless there is an accel- The motion also notes the level of public con- erated rate of recruitment, the numbers might be cern about the unacceptable level of public order lower at the end of the term of this Government, offences. That speaks for itself. We have given taking account of Garda retirement and other cir- the figures, but there has not been an answer cumstances. from the Government. The motion deplores the This is all a backdrop to the increase in crime Government’s delay in publishing the SMI levels and concern about it among the public. I Report on Garda Sı´ocha´na Structures and Organ- get sick and tired of reading that the level of this isation. Drip-feeding it to the public is not the or that crime has increased or decreased by 2% way to deal with it. The Government should pub- and of massaging and manipulation of the figures. lish it and get the Minister’s reaction to it. Six From the published official reports the figures are months is long enough for it to have been left clear. There were 85,000 headline crimes in 1998, gathering dust on the Minister’s desk. the first full year in office of the parties in govern- These are enormously serious issues for ment. The figure in 2002 was 106,000 crimes. We members of the public and members of the Garda read occasional headlines and statements from Sı´ocha´na. It is time for a change of approach. The the Minister that the level of a particular crime message from the general public is clear. The has increased by 2% or decreased by 4%. There Minister might be the first in the firing line from are lies, damned lies and statistics. Let us not the point of view of a change of approach. The avoid the point. There is an enormous increased approach adopted in recent years has not worked. level of crime here, partly due to an increasing The implementation report should be published. level of urbanisation. There are many ways of The Minister should indicate clearly what will dealing with this problem. One is to have a suf- happen to Garda numbers over the last couple of ficient number of gardaı´. That is accepted and years of the Government’s term of office. 315 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 316

Mr. O’Dowd: I agree with my colleague about me. When I tabled another question asking how the state of law and order. It is clear the Govern- many public order offences were committed in ment is failing in every respect, particularly in County Louth on St. Patrick’s Day I was told terms of the promises it made before the last gen- there was one in Drogheda, seven in Dundalk eral election. If one reads The Irish Times webs- and 14 in Ardee, the smallest town in the county. ite, one can see the assessment of the newspaper’s Those statistics told me absolutely nothing, correspondent before that election was that the however, except that there were probably more Fianna Fa´il-PD coalition’s plan for 2,000 extra gardaı´ on duty in Ardee that night than in gardaı´ was the key to its election programme. Drogheda, which has a population in excess of However, the plan was not implemented. The 30,000. I have been told that there were four core of the Fianna Fa´il-PD manifesto lies in tat- gardaı´ on duty that day in Drogheda. Will the ters, while crime is increasing in every respect. Minister confirm that? He has refused to answer Since 1998, the first full year of the current my questions in the Da´il and will not provide Government’s term in office, official annual facts and figures. The Minister has failed crime figures have increased from 85,000 in that miserably. year to nearly 106,000 in 2002. There has been a Some 2,000 additional gardaı´ were promised by small reduction since then but, nevertheless, the Government during the 2002 general election crime has never been so bad and the Government campaign, which was to be in addition to the has been dealing with the issue ineffectively. We creation of a traffic corps. The Minister has con- have heard more blather from the Minister for ceded that this will not now be created. This is Justice, Equality and Law Reform than from any despite the fact that his colleague, the Minister other Minister for years, but where is the action? for Transport, Deputy Brennan, continues to Where are the gardaı´ who are so badly needed? delude himself and the public that the traffic The Minister has failed to keep his promise and corps will be created. The result is that the posi- the Government’s approach to law and order is a tive impact of the penalty points system is being disgrace — it is all talk and no action. eroded because there is a lack of enforcement by Firearms offences are increasing on our city the Garda. Roads deaths are currently up 12 on streets and hardly a week goes by without some- the figures for the corresponding period last year. one being shot in connection with drug-related A road safety expert, commissioned by the activities. It is a shame and a disgrace. There was Department of Transport to examine the effec- an awful tragedy in Tallaght recently when an tiveness of road safety measures, was able to innocent person was murdered in bed by people drive the length and breadth of the country with- with guns. What is the Minister doing about it? out encountering any Garda presence. What is Where is his action plan? What is his approach? going on? What is the Government doing? It has Where is his credibility? At this stage he does not frozen and is doing nothing about this issue. It is have any. all talk and no action. The incidence of rape has increased by over The National Safety Council has no confidence 30% and over 1,300 additional households were in the Department of Justice, Equality and Law burgled in the 12 months to the end of March this Reform to enforce penalty points, as the Depart- year. Approximately 25,652 houses were burgled ment refuses to resource the Garda Sı´ocha´na. in that period. What a failure. The NSC’s chairman, Mr. Eddie Shaw, said Extra gardaı´ are badly needed but other recently that it was a matter of profound, per- measures are also required. This side of the sonal disappointment that it has not been possible House does not have a problem with examining to convince the Department of Justice, Equality a reorganisation of the Garda Sı´ocha´na. The and Law Reform that investment in modern tech- Minister should examine what other countries nology and supporting management and admin- have done to deal with crime. Cities such as New istration resources for road traffic law enforce- York, Los Angeles and San Francisco have man- ment is a worthwhile priority for our community aged to deal with late-night crime. The reality in or the Exchequer. That is a damning indictment Ireland, however, is that there are less gardaı´ on and it shows the Minister’s total lack of commit- duty late at night and at weekends than during ment to deal with these issues. Gardaı´ support the day. It is hard to find a garda on the beat in this view themselves. They claim that with exist- urban areas late at night and at weekends. The ing resources they can only carry out 3% of the Minister should ensure that Garda resources are spot checks required of them and, therefore, it reallocated within his existing budget so that would be impossible for them to meet the gardaı´ will be available to patrol late at night, increased requirements anticipated under the, as including weekends. Most gardaı´ should be on yet, unpublished national road safety strategy duty when most crimes are committed. The Mini- 2003-2005. ster shouts loudly about law and order, but if he is The Minister should also examine the issue of committed to public order he should ensure that drug driving. A study into drug use by motorists gardaı´ are available at such times. He has failed has found that of 2,000 specimens analysed by the to do so. medical bureau of road safety, almost 16% tested I recently tabled a question to the Minister ask- positive for one or more drugs. Cannabis was the ing him how many gardaı´ were on duty in County drug most commonly found in six out of ten driv- Louth on St. Patrick’s Day, but he could not tell ers who tested positive. Of the samples taken 317 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 318 from drivers under 25, some 25% tested positive ing population and this, along with the incidence for drugs, while the figure was 19% for the 25-34 of new crimes and an influx of foreigners into the age group. They are worrying statistics. country, places an increasing amount of pressure Other statistics are even sadder. We are on the Garda Sı´ocha´na. shocked every weekend to read of more deaths I have great confidence and faith in the force occurring in road accidents where only one when it is given the resources it needs. When Ver- vehicle is involved. In many such cases there must onica Guerin was murdered, drug dealers in Dub- be a deep suspicion that alcohol or other drugs lin city thought they could do what they liked. were involved in such crashes. The only way to However, when the Garda was given the reduce these deaths is by having more gardaı´ to resources, manpower and legislation, it dealt with enforce the law, especially late at weekends, but them. They were hunted out of the city and many the Minister is failing utterly in his duty. of the criminals are now behind bars, an achieve- Illegal drug use is on the increase but I want to ment on which I compliment the force. All of this praise members of the Garda Sı´ocha´na for their proves the point that if the Garda is given the commitment in seizing drugs, particularly heroin resources, it can do the job. and cocaine. If gardaı´ are not on the beat in the Like politicians, some gardaı´ have not upheld affected communities, however, we will continue the honour of their wonderful uniform. At the to experience an increase in such problems. foundation of the State, the first Government There is low morale in the Garda Sı´ocha´na due established the Garda Sı´ocha´na and my grand- to the Minister’s lack of action. The Government uncle, Joe Ring, helped to do so. He died in the lacks conviction to do the work and make the service of his country and I am proud of him and necessary investment to combat crime. It has the people who have worn the uniform. The failed utterly in this regard. The Minister rides his people who discredit the uniform by not doing white horse in pursuit of law and order but he their job properly must be weeded out and dealt may as well be in the sands of Libya because he with. That is not a criticism of the force of whose is not beating the problem of crime. He needs to members I am proud for the excellent job they reappraise radically the promises he made and to do. However, anyone who does not obey the law examine the money in his kitty. It should be must be dealt with. invested where it is needed most in the Garda The Minister gave a commitment which he Sı´ocha´na’s fight against crime in our com- must honour. The people spoke last weekend and munities. sent a strong message to the Government that it cannot get away with broken promises. People Mr. Ring: It gives me no pleasure to speak on want to feel safe in their homes and believe that this motion because there is great concern about if they telephone a Garda station, they will have the issue in rural Ireland. The Minister for Jus- as quick a response as possible. In most areas in tice, Equality and Law Reform recently attended which the Garda has the resources, its members a Garda ceremony at which he referred to the have done their job well. President Bush is to visit closure of rural Garda stations. This is at a time the country in a few weeks’ time and the Minister when there is more crime and people no longer will deploy thousands of gardaı´ from rural areas bother to report it because, in some rural Garda in the cities. The same has happened during stations, there is no one to report it to. Instead, Ireland’s EU Presidency. Gardaı´ were taken from people must speak into a microphone at the every station throughout the country and re- station without knowing whether anyone is listen- deployed in Dublin city. That is not right or fair ing. They have decided as a result that there is no because rural Ireland, as well as every other part point doing so. of the country, deserves to be protected. This Government and its predecessor brought Whatever it takes, whether it is money, before this House legislation on pub opening resources or space in Templemore for recruits, hours which has been the greatest disaster ever the Minister made a commitment which he to befall this country and it is now time the Mini- should honour and let the people know they can ster and his Department re-examined the issue. I be protected by the Garda Sı´ocha´na. He should left the count centre in Castlebar last Sunday give the force the resources. It can do the job, as night and travelled through two different towns. it has proven in the past and I know will do again. It reminded me of English football thugs on the rampage, as they are in Portugal again this week. Mr. McCormack: I strongly support the Fine One sees 300 to 400 people coming out of night- Gael motion. I am disappointed with the feeble clubs and on to the streets, belting, kicking and response in the Government’s amendment to the battering one another, yet there is no Garda motion. It asks the Da´il to note the Government’s presence. firm commitment to achieving a strength of The Minister gave a commitment to the people 14,000 gardaı´. However, the Government has no that he would increase Garda numbers by 2,000. real commitment to that statement because, two However, more gardaı´ are retiring early and years after the promise was made in the Govern- going on sick leave because of the pressure of the ment parties’ general election manifestos, it has job and the injuries they receive from thugs late still not been fulfilled. How firm is a commitment at night while on the job. We have fewer gardaı´ which has not yet been achieved? Will the on the street than 20 years ago despite our grow- Government take a lesson from the election 319 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 320

[Mr. McCormack.] a matter for the Garda Commissioner based on results and realise that people will no longer tol- his professional assessment of operational erate false and broken promises? requirements. If that is the case, why should a The Government amendment to the motion promise to increase the number of gardaı´ by 2,000 goes on to note the significant increase in the be used for political advantage in an election? budget provision for the Garda Sı´ocha´na of more There is a growing problem in the cities. \ than 1 billion, for the first time representing an Deputy Ring referred to night-clubs, the legis- increase of 75%. However, what has that 75% lation in regard to which I have never under- increase achieved? It has not achieved anything stood. There are five or six night clubs in Galway in Galway city. In 2000, 159 gardaı´ were stationed City all of which close at 2.30 a.m. or 3 a.m. when in Millstreet Garda station and 41 in Salthill, 2,000 young people, including members of my which covers Salthill to Oughterard and Let- family, come out on the street. The chipper or the termore. However, just three years later, Salthill’s take-away is packed. People queue for taxis and complement had fallen to 39 gardaı´ and Millstreet’s increased to 163. Four years later, the there are bound to be disturbances. As a parent, same number of gardaı´ are stationed in Galway when the members of my family go out at night I city. This has happened under the reign of this do not know whether they will come home safely. and the previous Administration in which the There should be a regulation whereby there Minister’s party and Fianna Fa´il were partners. would be staggered closing hours, by agreement In that time, the population of Galway city has with the night clubs. One night club should close increased by anything up to 10,000 or 12,000 this week at 1 a.m., another at 2 a.m. and another people. New housing estates have been built on at 12.30 a.m. and the order could be reversed the each side of the city, bringing with them new following week so that people would come on to problems. There are now vast suburban areas in the streets in an orderly manner, go to the take- which there are no facilities such as playing away, get a taxi home in a safe manner. pitches or community halls. People congregate on I ask the Minister to provide the promised the streets, antagonise and make life impossible 2,000 gardaı´ and not to allow that commitment for others living on the estates and who have become another broken promise of the enough problems moving there. Although it is Government. not within the terms of this motion, such facilities should be provided before the houses are Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform complete. (Mr. McDowell): I move amendment No. 1: I was canvassing last week in an area in which vast tracts of open space which were supposed to To delete all words after “Da´il E´ ireann” and be developed have been left derelict because substitute the following: some hitch prevented the builder from doing so “— notes the Government’s firm commit- and the residents must live with the problems ment to achieving a force strength of such a situation brings. There is also a great deal of rented property on such housing estates, a min- 14,000 members; ority of tenants of which are on rent supplement — acknowledges the achievement in 2003 and making life a hell for their neighbours who of a Garda force strength in excess of live in fear, yet nothing can be done about it. I 12,000 members for the first time since approached the health board on the matter, the founding of the force; which confirmed that a named person was in receipt of rent supplement. When I asked if the — notes the imminent achievement during rent supplement could be stopped because of the 2004 of the current maximum authorised anti-social behaviour, I was informed the health strength of the force at 12,200 members; board has no authority to do so. If the house in — notes the significant increase achieved in question were owned by Galway City Council, it the budget provision for the Garda could evict the tenant on proof of anti-social Vote, bringing the total allocation to the behaviour. However, nothing can be done about Garda Sı´ocha´na to over \1 billion for people in rented properties paid for by taxpayers the first time, which represents an through rent supplement because there is no pro- \ vision for doing so. Will the Minister address increase of over 75% on the 600 million this? allocated in 1997; The former Minister for Justice, Equality and — welcomes the recent decrease in the Law Reform, Deputy O’Donoghue, looked wor- level of recorded crime and the success ried on last night’s edition of “Questions and of the Garda Sı´ocha´na in combating Answers”. He was the Minister for “zero toler- public order offences; ance”, but the current Minister is the Minister for zero action. I hate to say that and I do not mean — congratulates the Garda Sı´ocha´na on its it personally but no action has been taken to fulfil ongoing successes in countering subver- the Government’s election promise. sion and terrorism and in seizing illegal The Government amendment also acknowl- drugs and the proceeds of organised edges that the deployment of Garda resources is crime; 321 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 322

— congratulates the Garda Sı´ocha´na on its election the two parties put in place a programme success in investigating and detecting for Government which had that as one of its prin- murders committed by criminal gangs; cipal features. Those are solemn commitments. They are commitments which bind politicians. — welcomes the publication by the Mini- They cannot be reneged upon. They cannot be ster of the Garda Sı´ocha´na Bill 2004 and cast aside. They demand implementation. its objective of radically modernising the Garda Sı´ocha´na and of establishing the Mr. J. O’Keeffe: They do. independent Garda Sı´ocha´na Ombuds- man Commission; Mr. McDowell: Any Government which — acknowledges that the deployment of respects the mandate it receives will implement Garda resources is a matter for the it. Some weeks ago I asked the Government, in Garda Commissioner based on his pro- view of the situation which now exists, to give me fessional assessment of the operational permission to bring before it proposals for the requirements; implementation of that commitment. I intend to bring those proposals before Government. It is — commends the Government’s record in my intention that the additional 1,800 gardaı´ who continuing to strengthen the criminal will have to be recruited to reach the target fixed law over the past seven years through by the Government will be recruited at the rate unprecedented legislative reform; of 600 per annum from 2005 onwards. — welcomes the Transforming State Assets Initiative whereby existing Garda Mr. McCormack: That is not good enough. accommodation is being replaced by new, more appropriate accommodation; Mr. McDowell: We are committed to the implementation of the full ceiling of 12,200, which — notes the programme of modernisation is the current authorised strength. There was a and reform for the Garda Sı´ocha´na cur- temporary situation in Government finances rently in train under the Strategic Man- which required that a cap be put on further agement Initiative and supported by the growth in the Garda Sı´ocha´na. A commitment is Garda Sı´ocha´na Bill 2004; a commitment and will be delivered upon. That — welcomes the publication of the final is the beginning, the middle and the end of it. report of the Garda SMI implemen- tation steering group, the contents of Mr. J. O’Keeffe: We will believe it when we which have been the subject of wide- see it. spread consultation among interested parties; Mr. Ring: We will believe it when we see them on the streets. — welcomes the open and transparent con- sultative and drafting process which pro- Mr. McDowell: The reason this commitment duced the final report; and was entered into is that Ireland has a growing — considers that the Report will be of sig- population. Ireland is increasingly urbanised and nificant assistance to the Commissioner has increasing challenges in terms of the drug cul- of the Garda Sı´ocha´na in preparing the ture, the drink culture and areas where the Garda first three-year strategy statement under was never engaged in such numbers previously, the terms of the Garda Sı´ocha´na Bill for example in immigration control and such mat- once enacted.” ters to which reference has been made by Oppo- sition speakers. The motion by the Fine Gael Party seeks to raise, or should I say generate, concern over different Mr. McCormack: Presidents’ visits. aspects of the Garda Sı´ocha´na, namely Garda numbers, the closure of Garda stations and the Mr. McDowell: Also President’s visits and the final report of the Garda SMI steering group, as prevention of international terrorism. The case well as the level of public order offences. for the extra Garda is easily made. On the issue of Garda numbers I wish to Coupled with that is a point which has been affirm, as the amendment does, that it is the made by Deputies O’Keeffe and O’Dowd that Government’s policy and firm commitment to the Government is also committed to a proper achieve a force strength of 14,000 members. implementation of our road traffic law. The road traffic law is a matter of lives. Implementation or Mr. McCormack: Does the Minister mean non-implementation of the road traffic law is a that? matter which is reflected in lives lost and lives ruined by long-term injury and vast costs to the Mr. J. O’Keeffe: When? Exchequer arising out of both types of tragedy which they incur. The imperative to increase the Mr. McDowell: Before the last election Fianna size of the Garda Sı´ocha´na in accordance with the Fa´il and the Progressive Democrats, in separate Government’s commitment is clear and manifestos, made that commitment. After the last unequivocal. Whatever grounds of a budgetary 323 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 324

[Mr. McDowell.] from \51 million to \58 million in a single year, nature have existed to hesitate before engaging which is a significant increase of 13.3%. In in increased expenditure, those grounds must give addition, an extra \7.5 million for Garda over- way to delivery on a solemn commitment. It is my time was provided to take account of the EU intention and that of the Government that this Presidency obligations. should be done. Without wishing to be divisive, I should remind Mr. Costello: It is very generous of the the Opposition that its criticism on this issue is Minister. particularly hollow. The strength of the force declined from 10,882 on 31 December 1993 to Mr. McDowell: The motion also raises the 10,827 on 31 December 1994, declined further to question of the closure of Garda stations. Let me 10,816 in 1995, and declined even further to deal with this along with a related issue raised by 10,804 on 31 December 1996. Not alone that, but the motion, namely the alleged delay in pub- in the last general election the Fine Gael and lishing the final report of the Garda SMI steer- Labour parties set out their respective pro- ing group. grammes for the Garda Sı´ocha´na and the criminal The strategic management initiative in the justice system and neither made any commitment Garda Sı´ocha´na has been under way since 1997 whatsoever to an increase in the strength of the and a great deal of work has been done. Far Garda Sı´ocha´na. reaching recommendations in a previous Garda SMI report on performance and accountability Mr. J. O’Keeffe: We did not break any have been included in the Garda Sı´ocha´na Bill promises. which is currently before the Seanad. The current report is the final report of the Garda SMI steer- Mr. McDowell: In fairness to the Fine Gael ing group. It deals with important aspects of the Party it said it would establish a special com- organisation and structure of the Garda Sı´ocha´na, mission to look at the strength of the Garda and it will inform the Garda Commissioner of the Sı´ocha´na but without any commitment to its kind of strategic planning envisaged for the outcome. Garda organisation when the Garda Bill is enacted. Mr. McCormack: We would have it done by The allegation that this final report of the now. Garda SMI group has in some way been sup- pressed is absurd. The report covers many aspects Mr. McDowell: The motion asks how the com- of the organisation and structure of the force and mitment to such an increase in numbers will be it was entirely natural that careful consideration met. There will be logistical challenges. One need of its proposals was warranted before the publi- have no doubt about that. cation of the report and the response to it. However, in order to prevent the distraction of Mr. J. O’Keeffe: I know. any claim by the Opposition that the report is in Mr. McDowell: The commitment will be met some way being kept secret, I am making copies by making whatever changes are necessary in the available. It is published today and can be read manner in which the Garda Sı´ocha´na is trained. on the Department’s website. Templemore will have to be used more inten- sively to give effect to the requirement for this Mr. J. O’Keeffe: We got something out of the major increase in Garda strength. I have spoken Minister. with the Garda Commissioner no later than yes- terday about the necessity to get an increased Mr. McDowell: In compiling this report a leng- number through Templemore. It can and will be thy period of consultation was undertaken by the done. I am committed to ensuring that the Garda Garda SMI steering group and a related review Sı´ocha´na has, in addition to sufficient personnel, group. I take this opportunity to thank them for all the resources it needs to deal efficiently and their commitment and dedication to the task. This effectively with the challenges it faces. was an inclusive, consultative process involving Garda management, the Garda representative Mr. McCormack: What happened? associations, officials of interested Departments and outside consultants. In a nutshell, their task Mr. McDowell: I am particularly pleased to was to give advice and make recommendations have secured an increase of an extra \91 million as to how the very challenging and wide ranging in the Garda Vote for 2004 over the 2003 Esti- proposals for change and enhanced efficiency in mate of \954 million. This represents a 9.5% the Garda Sı´ocha´na made in an earlier report of increase in the Garda Vote for 2004. The Garda a different grouping — the 1997 steering group budget is at an historic high, having reached on the efficiency and effectiveness of the Garda \1.054 billion. The resources secured for the Sı´ocha´na — could be translated into reality. Garda Sı´ocha´na are an increase of 75% over the Before describing briefly the other main figure allocated in 1997. The budget for Garda recommendations of the report, let me go straight salaries, wages and allowances includes an to the issue raised by the motion, namely, the increase in overtime provision of over \7 million, closure of Garda stations. The Garda SMI report 325 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 326 makes recommendations on the use of Garda gardaı´ of evidence in court, including the estab- stations in the Dublin metropolitan region — and lishment of a criminal justice management unit in that region only — and proposes four different the Dublin metropolitan region; the Garda types of station based on public demand. During national drugs unit to have a more co-ordinated the course of reviews it was found that between national policy and strategy on drugs; the estab- 80% and 90% of customers call to Garda stations lishment of an organised crime unit within the during regular office hours. There are very few National Bureau of Criminal Investigation; the callers outside these hours and fewer still during creation of a new head of procurement, with the night. improved procurement processes, to achieve The types of station being proposed range from greater efficiencies; a more pro-active approach divisional headquarters with offices, custody to community policing, with clearly defined roles, suites, staff facilities and a public office on a 24- functions and management practices; and a cle- hour basis, to public offices which would open arer definition of the respective role of each rank. between one and eight hours a day to facilitate All of these recommendations, each important the various requirements of the public. The in its own respect, will fall to be considered for objective of reduced public opening hours is to implementation as part of the on-going process of get gardaı´ out from behind public counters at Garda reform, a process which has already deliv- times when there is little demand for their ser- ered tangible results. Under the umbrella of SMI, vices, and out on the beat on the streets of the for example, new rosters have been developed city where they are needed. The report estimates and agreed with staff associations and where that these proposals to change the opening hours introduced so far have enabled management to of public offices in about a dozen stations in the ensure greater operational presence on the Dublin metropolitan region could release the streets at peak times. A new financial manage- equivalent of 240 full-time gardaı´ and sergeants ment framework has been established, headed by onto the streets at night when their visible pres- a civilian director of finance and assisted by finan- ence would assist in the prevention of crime. That cial and management accountants. This has is exactly the point that Deputy Ring was making played no small part in bringing about signifi- in his speech. cantly improved budgetary discipline. This will be vital in enabling the Commissioner to accept Mr. J. O’Keeffe: That is the speech the Mini- responsibility as Accounting Officer for the force ster gave to Mr. Tom Brady in the Irish Indepen- under the Garda Bill which, as I have mentioned, dent last week. implements key recommendations of the previous SMI performance and accountability report. Mr. McDowell: I emphasise that I have made Those are the key recommendations of the no decision on this or any other proposal in the Garda SMI report. That is what it says, and that report. Indeed, in this and other aspects of the is all it says, about the public opening hours of report, the Garda Commissioner will, under the Garda stations in Dublin. The House will see that provisions of the Garda Sı´ocha´na Bill, have there is no grand plan to close Garda stations — enhanced responsibilities in preparing proposals though some will be disappointed to hear that. In for organisational reform, and I believe this fact, the House will be interested to hear details report will be of considerable assistance to him in of the extensive programme of building and reno- that task. vation of Garda stations that is under way. The OPW, which is responsible for funding capital Mr. J. O’Keeffe: What about the 40 stations works to Garda stations, expects that some \13 that will be downgraded? million will be allocated this year to the Garda \ Mr. McDowell: Other key recommendations of building programme. A further 5 million, the report include the re-structuring of Garda approximately, will be spent on more minor works projects. In addition, there is provision in headquarters to ensure better emphasis on strat- \ egy, planning, evaluation and performance man- the Garda Vote of 6.6 million for the mainten- ance of Garda properties. In all, 2004 will see in agement, including the appointment of a third \ Deputy Commissioner to head up a strategy and the order of 25 million spent on various Garda performance branch; and the reorganisation of building projects. This does not include additional Garda regions, divisions and districts throughout funding expected from the transforming State the country, reducing the number of regions by assets initiative. one, reducing the number of divisions by five and reducing the number of districts by between 20 Mr. J. O’Keeffe: What about the 40 head- and 32. quarters being downgraded?

Mr. J. O’Keeffe: Will the Minister name them? Mr. McDowell: I have had discussions with the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, at the OPW Mr. McDowell: This is in the report. They have who has commenced a pilot scheme of equity not been identified in the report. exchange — part of the transforming State assets Other recommendations include the outsourc- initiative. The pilot scheme involves eight Garda ing of the maintenance of the Garda fleet; new stations in Tipperary and Limerick. The aim of improved procedures for the presentation by the scheme is to replace the existing Garda 327 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 328

[Mr. McDowell.] units, infrastructural assets and technical assist- accommodation at these eight locations with ance to respond to the challenges of the fight eight new, more appropriate facilities by offering against crime. for sale the existing stations. No closures are It is undeniably the case that in recent years involved and no station will be vacated until its excessive alcohol consumption has led to an replacement has been provided and is oper- increase in the number of offences. While factors ational. I am sorry to disappoint the House again. such as an increase in disposable income available I understand that the OPW has appointed to individuals and fundamental changes in the external consultants to progress this matter and values held by some in our society, contribute to they are expected to report to the board shortly. this increase, they cannot be used to justify public If this pilot proves successful, it is intended to order offences. As Minister for Justice, Equality extend the scheme to other areas and stations. and Law Reform I am committed to bringing the More generally, the transforming State assets necessary resources and legislative provisions into initiative involves the sale of properties which are place to tackle this issue. The Intoxicating Liquor surplus to requirements across the public sector. Act 2003 and the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Surplus funds accruing will be re-invested in four Act 2003 have given gardaı´ significant additional key areas earmarked by the Government. Two of powers to deal with public order offences and these areas are the purchase of sites for Garda street crime. As a result of the Criminal Justice stations and the Garda buildings maintenance (Public Order) Act 2003, gardaı´ can now target a programme. This re-investment process has range of premises where disorder is known to already begun and the Garda programmes have occur. This does not only apply to licensed already begun to see the benefits. premises. In my part of Dublin, within a Tiger Woods The Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 places drive, there are four Garda stations. If Tiger restrictions on the sale of alcohol to those under Woods had a clear line of vision from St. 18 years and drunkenness on the premises. Stephen’s Green he could hit Pearse Street Garda Licence holders are very much aware station, Kevin Street Garda station, Harcourt 8 o’clock of these stringent provisions and it is Terrace Garda station and Harcourt Square my view that they are more vigilant Garda station. It may well be that Members think as a result. Since the introduction of the original that is satisfactory, but I do not. I think our Intoxicating Liquor Act in 2000, to which Deputy changing population requires different solutions. Ring referred, and its strengthening through For instance, Kevin Street Garda station is further legislation in 2003, 713 licensed premises housed in the remains of the medieval palace of have been prosecuted through the courts St. Sepulchre. Another is housed in a very valu- resulting in 377 convictions, including 275 clos- able site on Harcourt Terrace which, combined ure orders. with an old butter testing station, must be one of The administration of the national age cards the most valuable inner city sites and is about a scheme by the Garda Sı´ocha´na has facilitated the two minute walk or less from Harcourt Square, gardaı´, in co-operation with the licensed trade, in which is the location of Garda headquarters. addressing and combating the problem of under These issues must be borne in mind. age drinking. In advance of those legislative During the period 2002-03 the following measures, the gardaı´ in Cork established a part- stations were completed: Kilmacthomas area HQ, nership with the local entertainment industry, the County Waterford; Cobh district HQ, County local district Judiciary and Cork City Council, the Cork; Kilrush district HQ, County Clare; Thom- result of which was that, in 2003, there was a 33% astown district HQ, County Kilkenny; Tourmake- reduction in public order offences and, in the first ady, County Mayo, basic unit; Roundstone, part of this year, there was a further reduction of County Galway, basic unit; Clifden district HQ, 17%. County Galway; Blanchardstown, special drugs I urge local authorities to make use of the pow- unit; Ballymore, County Westmeath, basic unit; ers they have been given under the Intoxicating Rathangan, County Kildare, basic unit; Ballin- Liquor Act to decide policy on closing hours in robe area HQ, County Mayo; Kilmihil County their areas and whether 2.30 a.m. is an appropri- Clare, basic unit; Mill Street, County Galway, ate closing time. I have given those powers additional accommodation; and phase 3 of the through the Act, which we piloted through this Talbot premises, Santry, major Garda stores and House, to members of local authorities and I repository. hope they will now avail of them. The motion also refers to the level of public I do not want to bore Deputies with statistics order offences, and let me say a few words on on offences detected and dealt with under Oper- that. ation Encounter and its successor, Operation There have never been more resources avail- Boulevard. Deputy O’Keeffe suggested that I am able in the fight against crime. The number of massaging figures or lying through statistics, but gardaı´ has increased to an all-time high. The the Garda Sı´ocha´na, not the Minister for Justice, funding for the Garda Sı´ocha´na has passed the \1 Equality and Law Reform, has reduced crime billion mark. The Commissioner has very signifi- over the past two years. The rate of crime is cant resources at his disposal in terms of a well- decreasing. That does not refer only to serious trained and highly-motivated force, specialised crime—— 329 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 330

Mr. McHugh: That is reported crime. rorism”. What about the killers of Detective Garda Jerry McCabe? Mr. McDowell: Would the Deputy hear me out? The number of homicides is declining con- Mr. McDowell: I am about to produce a further sistently, as is the number of public order criminal justice Bill soon which I hope will offences which are recorded through PULSE, not receive strong support in both Houses. on the back of an envelope. Mr. J. O’Keeffe: We want more order. Mr. J. O’Keeffe: What is the last annual figure for headline crime? Mr. McDowell: I propose in that Bill to intro- duce a statutory power to preserve crime scenes Mr. McDowell: The annual figure has shown a which, unfortunately, is lacking; a general power decline in public order offences. For which figure on the issue of search warrants; increased deten- is the Deputy looking? tion powers of up to 24 hours for serious arrestable offences; some amendments to the Mr. J. O’Keeffe: What was the last official Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence) Act 1990, in annual figure? particular to reclassify saliva as a non-intimate sample for DNA purposes—— Mr. McDowell: There was a reduction of 18% in the first quarter of 2004 in assaults causing Mr. J. O’Keeffe: More promises. harm compared with the same period last year. The number of aggravated sexual assaults was Mr. McDowell: ——extend the power of the down 54% and the number of murders was down prosecution to appeal in limited circumstances on 36% in the first quarter of this year compared points of law; general provisions, mostly of a tech- with the first quarter of last year. These are the nical nature, to improve efficiency in the pros- achievements of the Garda Sı´ocha´na. It is quite ecution of offences; make a provision on the easy for Opposition Members to denigrate the admissibility of statements by witnesses who sub- achievements of the Garda or to say these sequently disown, disavow, refuse to testify or achievements are illusory—— retract their original statements; and make pro- vision for fixed penalty procedures in respect of Mr. Durkan: We are denigrating the Minister. lesser public order offences. The introduction of a statutory provision Mr. J. O’Keeffe: We are denigrating the Mini- allowing for a fixed penalty procedure in respect ster who will not give the force the resources. of certain lesser public order offences will enhance the power of the Garda Sı´ocha´na to deal Mr. McDowell: ——or in some sense unreal. I with such offences in an efficient and effective know they are real and tangible and I congratu- way and offer an alternative to a court pros- late the Garda Sı´ocha´na on all it does. ecution. Such a procedure would be similar to the fixed penalty procedure in respect of road traffic Mr. J. O’Keeffe: The Minister is plucking fig- offences whereby a person charged with a rel- ures out of the air. evant offence is issued with a written notice indi- cating that if he or she pays the appropriate pen- Mr. Durkan: He should tell that to the people. alty within a certain period, he or she will avoid prosecution before the courts. Mr. McDowell: International comparisons con- I also intend to bring forward proposals to tained in the National Crime Council’s report, Government to seek approval for the inclusion — Crime in Ireland, show that Ireland has a rela- whether on publication or on Committee Stage tively low crime rate. Of the countries studied by — of firearms control provisions in the Bill. In the council, only Switzerland, Greece, Russia and addition, I am examining the issues surrounding Japan had lower rates of violent crime. These are sentencing in relation to drug trafficking offences the facts, although the Deputies opposite may not and firearms offences, and if I consider it appro- like to hear them. priate, I will bring forward further measures to strengthen the law in that area. The criminal jus- Mr. Durkan: To say that with a straight face tice Bill represents a comprehensive package of takes a fair nerve. Where did the Minister get anti-crime measures which will impact on all hold of that? types of crime. My proposals will be effective yet measured to ensure the necessary balance is Mr. McDowell: It is true. The Government has achieved between maintaining the rights of the put through a considerable amount of criminal individual while at the same time ensuring the law reform and it has been proactive in bringing optimum protection of society against the forward legislation. In the past seven years, 24 criminal. criminal justice Bills have been enacted. The Law Reform Commission recently pub- lished a consultation paper on the establishment Mr. J. O’Keeffe: The Minister has skipped the of a DNA databank and I am examining the section in his script headed “Subversion and Ter- issues highlighted there and look forward to hear- 331 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 332

[Mr. McDowell.] that way but he was acknowledging the fact and ing the views and opinions of those who will take he has done his best to ensure that there are no part in the consultation process. It is my intention extra gardaı´ on the beat. As a result, the amount to draw up proposals which would, having regard of crime that might otherwise be detected has not to constitutional requirements and the require- been detected and the figures happen to be rela- ments of the European Convention on Human tively stable. Rights, permit as extensive a databank as poss- There were two commitments on justice in the ible. I intend to bring these proposals to Govern- Government manifesto, on both of which the ment in due course. Government has reneged. One was to produce The achievements and objectives I have set out night and weekend courts, and the other was to demonstrate clearly the determination of the employ 2,000 extra gardaı´. These promises have Government to strengthen the Garda Sı´ocha´na. patently not been delivered and, half way into the We have significantly increased the strength of Government’s term, there is no sign of delivery. the force. It is now at a record level and will The Minister has acknowledged on numerous increase further. We will keep our commitment occasions in the House that it will be impossible on that. to recruit 2,000 gardaı´ during the term of office of the Government because Templemore does Mr. J. O’Keeffe: There is no evidence for that. not have the capacity to accommodate such num- bers. He also stated that Rome was not built in Mr. Durkan: That is a departure from pre- a day and these additional gardaı´ could not be vious practice. recruited during the first or second years of the Mr. McDowell: We have significantly increased lifetime of the Government. When its five-year the resources available to the force so that its term of office has passed, only a fraction, at best, annual budget now stands at more than \1 billion, of those 2,000 gardaı´ will have been recruited. No and we continue to invest heavily in Garda steps have been taken, in remedial terms, to stations and infrastructure. We have secured extend the existing facilities at Templemore, to Oireachtas approval for many improvements to provide new facilities there or to do anything that the criminal law and propose further amend- would allow the additional gardaı´ to be recruited. ments to strengthen the investigative powers of I am in possession of figures which show that the Garda Sı´ocha´na. We have published the in the past two years 833 recruits graduated from Garda Sı´ocha´na Bill, which no other Government Templemore, while 813 gardaı´ retired. It would or Minister has done, the most radical reforming be difficult to reach the target of 2,000 additional measure in the history of the Garda Sı´ocha´na. gardaı´ on the basis of those figures. The Garda Our commitment to the force and its fight Representative Association, GRA, stated that at against crime is clear and the amendment I pro- the current rate of progress it will be 2038 before pose to the motion is a fair reflection of this. I the target figure is reached. There is no point commend the Government’s amendment to the making commitments and bold statements that House and ask the Government to reject the ill- these will be delivered upon when such delivery thought out and ill-prepared motion of the is clearly not taking place and when there are no Opposition. steps or measures in place to ensure that it will take place in the future. Mr. Costello: I want to share time with The Minister of State at the Department of Deputies Burton and Durkan. I compliment Finance, Deputy Parlon, has entered the Deputy O’Keeffe on putting forward this fine Chamber. motion on Private Members’ business. It was interesting to hear once again the Minister’s work Mr. Durkan: Two potential leaders together. of fiction. He has, however, learnt a lesson from the local elections, namely, he will clearly and Mr. J. O’Keeffe: They will have plenty of time unequivocally increase the Garda force and lay to plot. less emphasis on closing Garda stations. He is in the business of extending, renovating, Mr. Parlon: Deputy Costello should not lose rebuilding, replacing—— his train of thought. Mr. McHugh: Painting and decorating. Mr. Costello: Far from it. The Minister of State Mr. McDowell: It is a hard life. is another who — no more than the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform — learnt a les- Mr. Costello: ——and decorating etc. The local son from the local elections. election results have begun to hit home and the Minister realises that the gung-ho policy may be Mr. Parlon: Plus five seats in Laoighis-Offaly. going down the tubes. Is not he the Minister who said on one occasion that if there were more Mr. Costello: And very proud of it. gardaı´ put on the beat, more crime would be detected and crime figures would increase as a Ms Burton: The Minister for Justice, Equality result? I doubt that he intended to put it in quite and Law Reform should not run away. 333 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 334

Mr. Costello: Before the Minister departs, I The legislation promised, the Garda Sı´ocha´na wish to bring a matter to his attention. He might Bill, should already be in place so that with the not be aware that the Minister of State, Deputy local elections over the liaison committees could Parlon, is on record as saying that no Garda be established to provide a community link stations will be closed in Laoighis-Offaly. The between the Garda and local authorities. It would Minister is nodding. have been great if this could have been up and running at this stage. However, there is no sign Mr. Durkan: It is a cast iron guarantee. of it at all. That is another promise which has not been delivered upon. Mr. Costello: The Minister may have more dif- The incidence of a number of headline offences ficulty in proceeding with station closures than he is growing rapidly. One of the most serious of may hitherto have thought would have been the these is sexual assault. The numbers of such case. assaults have increased dramatically in every one There is no way the recruitment promised can of the past five years and many of them go unre- be delivered upon because the capacity does not ported. We are, therefore, only seeing the tip of exist at Templemore. No steps have been taken the iceberg and do not yet have the real figure. to provide that capacity. Action will have to be The other area in which there has been a major taken in that regard. Either the capacity will be increase is the incidence of gangland crimes and provided at Templemore or it will have to be pro- murders. The easy availability of firearms is a vided elsewhere. I previously put forward a pro- matter of concern. Those who commit gangland posal in this regard. The Grangegorman develop- crimes are seldom caught, prosecuted or sent to ment agency Bill was promised before the most prison. This is a worrying phenomenon that has recent general election and it was promised on not been dealt with and there is no evidence the numerous occasions prior to the local elections. Minister has a policy in respect of it. It has not yet appeared, even though it was prom- How will the position be improved if the Mini- ised this session. When the Dublin Institute of ster proceeds to close urban Garda stations? He Technology is transferred to Grangegorman, I referred to getting 240 gardaı´ out from behind propose that an extra faculty, namely, a police their desks and on to the streets. The Garda Rep- academy, be added to the existing six faculties. resentative Association has agreed to accept civ- This would allow us to provide a location at ilian personnel working in Garda stations in place which young Garda recruits could complete their of gardaı´. It has stated that, instead of the 240 training in an urban setting in proximity to their gardaı´ to which the Minister refers, 700 officers peers attending a third level institution, namely, could be released on to the streets if there was a the DIT. process of civilianisation in respect of non-official I have always considered that it is undesirable Garda duties. A great deal of work could be done that all Garda training should take place in a sort on that. The Minister will not get extra gardaı´ out of secondary boarding school located in a rural on to the streets by closing Garda stations. He setting and removed from the urban environment proposes to close the Fitzgibbon Street and where most policing takes place. In addition to Mountjoy stations in my constituency, both of establishing a police academy at Grangegorman, which are located in areas where intensive crime we could approach the PSNI which is also levels exist. This proposal will go down very badly encountering difficulties because its old college in with communities that are already under Belfast is in a bad state of repair. I imagine it pressure. would not be impossible to suggest a location at There are many issues we could discuss in which training could be provided for members of respect of this valuable motion. The Minister the police forces from both parts of the island. must look at the broader picture. He must con- We should move forward with such an initiative sider the entire criminal justice system, in respect because it would foster co-operation. We desper- of which he does not have a policy. He must con- ately need to provide additional capacity in sider the number of gardaı´, the manner of the respect of Garda training. The new facilities to force’s operations, its accountability and struc- which I refer should be provided in an urban set- tures and ensure they are linked to accountability. ting, particularly as more than 60% of the popu- He must also look at the courts and the fact that lation lives in that type of setting. they are operating in a chaotic fashion. In Crime remains a major problem despite what addition, he must consider the prisons which are the Minister says, with 300 serious crimes com- in a squalid condition. The Minister is closing mitted daily. Due attention has not been paid to down prisons left, right and centre. serious headline crimes. The Minister referred to I welcome the motion and hope the Minister public order crimes and stated that a serious will listen to what is said in respect of it. problem exists. There is also a serious problem as regards crime in the community. This gives rise Ms Burton: It is the Government’s failure to to concerns about the security of elderly people produce any kind of serious response in respect and creates fear. There is a lack of liaison and of community policing which hurts and afflicts contact between the Garda and members of the people most. People’s lives, homes and property community in many instances. A great deal of are being damaged and their enjoyment of the work should already have been done in this area. benefits of economic growth are, in many 335 Garda Sı´ocha´na Report: 15 June 2004. Motion 336

[Ms Burton.] who are different are also vulnerable; they are instances, being destroyed as a result of harass- targeted by these thugs. ment and petty and serious crime. The people’s People call the Garda in vain. We have fine sense of security and well-being has been taken gardaı´ in Blanchardstown but very often it away. Women are afraid to walk the streets at appears that if a cow is lost in Cavan, community night. Young men and teenagers are afraid to go police are taken there, or to areas such as that of into town at night. The Government has shown the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, and Dublin complete indifference to the kind of suffering is bereft of any kind of policing. The Minister of people are experiencing due to the failures of pol- State may smile but he would not do so if he came icing in communities. to the area in the evening time when the streets It is not rocket science, but the critical response are owned by thugs, not decent people. where crime has been getting out of control around the world has been to introduce com- Mr. Durkan: Come home to Parlon country. munity-based policing. We know this from cities The debate gives us an opportunity to review like New York, Baltimore, Boston and Chicago. the performance of the Government and, per- Gardaı´ need to be taken out of Garda stations haps, to advise it on how it might change direc- and cars to get back in touch with local neigh- tion between now and the end of its term of bourhoods. The Garda must sit on those people office. This calls for the re-naming of certain min- involved in serious criminal activity to deter chil- istries. For instance, there should be a Minister dren and others who are followers who would for the shortage of housing or housing waiting lists. There should be a Minister with responsi- drift into trouble if there were no policing. Other- bility for bed waiting lists or overcrowding in wise, these people will engage in gangsterism and hospitals. There should be a Minister for school harassment of their neighbours. I raised this mat- accommodation shortages, which is a serious ter with the Minister for Justice, Equality and issue at present. There should also be a Minister Law Reform six or seven times, but he has still for rising crime. not got the message that unless there is a serious Before he left the House, the Minister, Deputy change in attitude by him, the Department of Jus- McDowell, made various references to the effect tice, Equality and Law Reform and senior gardaı´ that my colleague, Deputy Jim O’Keeffe, had to the value of community policing, we will not accused him of massaging the figures, which he address this crisis that bedevils almost every com- denied. In fact, he has massaged the figures so munity in the country. The strategic management well he would get a job with most football teams, report on the Garda Sı´ocha´na, which the Govern- some of whom are being relegated. ment has not published, specifically addresses the failure of the senior structure in the Department Mr. Parlon: Like Kildare after last Sunday. of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Sı´ocha´na to address community policing. Mr. Durkan: If the Minister of State, Deputy My area of Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, is one Parlon, is short of work in his Department he of the fastest growing communities, not just in could assist the Minister with the massaging that Ireland but in the whole of western Europe. We is taking place because he is a past master at have had an increase in population of 30,000 to massaging. He should know the time for mass- the current level of 70,000. The population is aging has come and gone. greater here than in the cities of Limerick, Gal- In 1997, the Progressive Democrats manifesto way or Waterford. In 1997, at the end of the rain- stated that, in Government, it would increase bow Government, we had 18 community gardaı´ Garda numbers by 1,200 to reach the full com- for a population which was then around the plement of 12,000. 50,000 mark. In 2004, after all the years of econ- omic growth, the Minister acknowledged in a let- Mr. Parlon: The Deputy should pull out his ter to me that we now have 19 community gardaı´. own manifesto. A beautiful estate of 600 new houses has been built for social and affordable housing. In spite of Acting Chairman (Mr. Sherlock): The Minister pleas from people, including me and the county of State should allow Deputy Durkan to speak manager, to make policing an integral part of this without interruption. new housing development, to have a Garda pres- Mr. Durkan: That was written on page 5. After ence in the form of a community garda, neither five years of Government, or misgovernment as the Garda Sı´ocha´na nor the Minister for Justice, the case may be—— Equality and Law Reform responded. The county manager had to arrange stone picking operations Mr. Parlon: Taxi drivers are hoping the Depu- where council workers were employed to go ty’s party will get into power. around housing estates to identify potential miss- iles in the rubble left in the area to prevent win- Mr. Durkan: In 2002 the figure was increased dows being broken. This is the usual response by a further 2,000. when a group of up to 20 young people is asked to move away from a garden wall by a house- Mr. Parlon: Eircom shareholders are praying holder putting his or her children to bed. People the Deputy’s party will get into power. 337 Hospital 15 June 2004. Services 338

Acting Chairman: The Minister of State must Adjournment Debate. allow the Deputy to speak without interruption. ———— Mr. O’Dowd: The Chair should put the Mini- ster of State out of the House. Hospital Services. Mr. O’Dowd: On 2 June a group of 25 general Mr. Durkan: It is evident the Minister, Deputy practitioners in Drogheda wrote a letter to the McDowell, and the Minister of State, Deputy Minister for Health and Children about their dis- Parlon, are completely oblivious to what is going quiet at the deterioration in the situation in Our on around them. Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. The catch- What worries me most is that the Minister for ment area of the hospital has greatly expanded Justice, Equality and Law Reform regularly con- over the past few years due to a combination of circumstances including the increased population demns rising crime. Instead of making statements moving into the area, particularly as a result of about it he should do something. He should rising house prices in Dublin; the transfer from initiate steps that would have an impact on the other local hospitals in Dundalk, Cavan, Navan increase in crime. During the recent election cam- and Monaghan, of many of the services; the paign he decided to close half the Garda stations. increase in workload with the arrival of asylum He also intends closing half the prisons. He will seekers; and the policy of increasing the range obviously let the prisoners out, some of whom are and number of specialist services on offer. Mat- guilty of serious crimes against members of the ters are at a crisis level in the hospital because of Garda Sı´ocha´na. That should resonate with the the basic lack of space and facilities to deal with Minister of State and his senior Minister because the issues. the day they do that is the day they relinquish The doctors went on to say that these factors authority to the mandate they received from the had increased the workload experienced by the people. hospital. Despite the heroic efforts of their con- The solemn promises made by the Progressive sultant colleagues and all hospital staff, the situa- Democrats and Fianna Fa´il parties in Govern- tion is deteriorating year by year. The patients, ment in the past five years are now completely consultants, hospital staff and general prac- gone. There is a need for another ministry to be titioners are totally frustrated at the inevitable set up — the ministry of broken promises. I sug- chaos caused by the lack of planning. General gest a significant period of time be given to this practitioners are concerned that in the absence of because it will be fully occupied for the next two a plan to either extend the hospital on its current site or to build a new hospital, lives are being put and a half to three years. There will be all the at risk. time in the world to examine issues of housing, They go on to state that the accident and emer- education, health and justice. To that can be gency department is overcrowded and inadequate added a plethora of other broken promises made and dangerous when near full capacity. There is at local level, which include some made by the no space for proper X-ray facilities, not enough Minister of State when he referred to opening up theatres to service the surgical teams and general the whole county. One would think he was in practitioners do not have access to basic diagnos- Idaho a short time ago from the manner in which tic and therapeutic tools such as physiotherapy. he was encouraging people to go there from Dub- For example, urology appointments can take up lin. Mind you, that process has come unstuck in to four years. the interim. The doctors demand a commitment from the In spite of all this hooh-hah about increasing Department of Health and Children and I urge the strength of the Garda Sı´ocha´na, after seven the Minister to respond to that demand. He years of performance by that side of the House should draw up a plan within the next six months the number of gardaı´ in the Carlow-Kildare div- outlining how this intolerable situation in our ision has increased by two members. That is truly regional hospital will be addressed. The doctors a monumental performance on the part of the need clear written proposals as to how the Government after seven years of hard slogging. hospital will evolve over the next three years. At the same time it is talking about closing They want hospital staff, consultants and general additional Garda stations and prisons. I do not practitioners to work together to resolve the issue. The issue is clear. The Minister must act know what else it has in mind. and support the demands of general practitioners. Between now and the end of its term of office, Drogheda hospital is a centre of excellence and I hope the Government will examine its collective its staff are first class in every respect. The Mini- and individual consciences and ask where it went ster and the health board have commissioned a wrong, why it made such promises, what it was survey on the issue. In response to a parliamen- at, what it intended to do and what verdict the tary question I asked today, the Minister replied people will give on its performance. that the North Eastern Health Board was appointing a design team to prepare a feasibility Debate adjourned. study for Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, and that the purpose of the study was 339 Community Support 15 June 2004. Services 340

[Mr. O’Dowd.] attaining regional self-sufficiency for an increas- to identify the potential for future capital devel- ing population. opments at the site. The overriding objective of this policy is to pro- I urge the Minister to ensure that the design vide a safe and sustainable acute hospital service. team consults not just with the medical people With regard to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, but also with the local authority in Drogheda. Drogheda, the health board has advised that Any extra land that needs to be rezoned to increases in hospital activity, partly attributable extend the hospital will be available. I spoke per- to demographic changes, have posed challenges sonally to the town clerk who informed me that in recent years. However, it must be emphasised the local authority is ready and willing to rezone that there have been a number of significant ser- whatever land is necessary to provide a regional vice developments introduced to meet these chal- facility, either adjacent to the existing site or lenges. These include the appointment of within, adjacent to or around the borough of additional consultants in emergency medicine, Drogheda. anaesthetics, haematology, dermatology, cardi- The expansion of this hospital is important to ology, surgery, orthopaedics and radiology. MRI the people of Drogheda and the region. It is also services have been developed and a new oncology important that the hospital is not put on wheels day service has been introduced. and moved somewhere else. It is unsustainable The health board has also advised that the that the hospital would move to a greenfield site regional unit for symptomatic breast services and in the middle of County Louth or County Meath. palliative care services has been commissioned in This would bring enormous pressure on road recent weeks on the hospital site. In addition, the infrastructure and on the support services and Department has approved four new consultant supplies that would be needed. It is essential that posts in paediatrics and in obstetrics-gynaecology. the hospital expands, that it does so in south The board has advised that it is currently in the Louth and that the services so urgently needed process of filling these posts. are provided by the Government. If not, it will With regard to capital and service devel- be at the Government’s peril. I will make this an opments, a project team comprising representa- election issue for the next general election. tives of the Department, the North Eastern Health Board and the staff of the hospital has Minister of State at the Department of Health prepared a planning brief for the hospital. In and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan): The general elec- April 2004, the Department approved the tion is some time away yet. appointment of a design team to prepare a site I make this reply on behalf of the Minister for feasibility study which will help to determine Health and Children, Deputy Martin. I welcome future development plans for the hospital. It is the opportunity to clarify a number of issues planned that this study will be progressed over relating to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, the coming months and completed by the end of Drogheda. Responsibility for the provision of ser- the year. vices at the hospital rests with the North Eastern In tandem with this overall planning process, a Health Board. It is a matter for the board to number of interim capital projects are being pro- determine the nature and level of service at the gressed. A newly refurbished ICU-CCU depart- hospital, consistent with the board’s commitment ment will be opened within the next two weeks to the provision of a high-quality, efficient and at a capital cost of approximately \1.3 million. cost-effective service. Plans are currently being formulated for the The board has advised that its strategic objec- refurbishment of the accident and emergency tives for the delivery of acute hospital services in department, including new radiology equipment, the north-eastern region are derived from a num- for an upgrade of the catering department and ber of regional and local policy initiatives includ- for the provision of a pilot midwifery-led unit at ing: a health strategy for the people of the north- the hospital. east; the proposed development of specialist ser- While the board accepts that there are some vices in the NEHB from 2001 to 2006; the strat- infrastructural deficiencies at the hospital, it is egy for capital developments for the acute clear that progress is being made on a number of hospital services from 2001 to 2011; and the fronts. The North Eastern Health Board and my report of the regional maternity services review Department look forward to advancing the over- group of 2001. all site feasibility study as well as the various These strategies set out the vision for the future interim capital projects relating to the hospital. direction of acute services in the north-eastern The Minister is assured by the North Eastern region. This is designed to meet the needs of the Health Board of its continuing commitment to population of the region by providing appropriate the further development of services at Our Lady services at each hospital, which satisfy the neces- of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, and to the pro- sary criteria relating to each specialty. In sum- vision of high-quality patient care to all of the mary, this policy networks the five hospital sites people of the north-east. into two hospital groups, Cavan-Monaghan and Community Support Services. Louth-Meath, with clearly defined roles for each group and site. It aims at expanding the range of Ms Burton: I wish to share my time with specialist services available with a view to Deputy Costello. 341 Community Support 15 June 2004. Services 342

Acting Chairman: Is that agreed? Agreed. there. There are 45 voluntary groups working in the centre, as Deputy Burton stated. There are Ms Burton: The Centre for Independent Liv- also 350 other groups being serviced by the cen- ing, Carmichael House, is located in Brunswick tre. It provides a significant benefit to the city. Street. It is home to some 45 organisations, most The staff have been served with redundancy of which work in the areas of health, social sup- notices to expire on 9 July and if the centre were port and information. On account of the funding to go under, it would be a great loss to the area. crisis which has engulfed the centre, it is threat- It is not possible to contemplate how serious this ened with imminent closure and 55 members of would be for the variety of organisations which staff have been issued with redundancy notices. would lose the roof over their heads and would I heard the Taoiseach boast again today about not have the support services provided. the riches of our resources and the economic suc- The sum of \825,000 as core funding is cess that every party which has served in Govern- required to keep the house running on an annual ment has helped to create. It is shameful, there- basis. The Department of Health and Children fore, that organisations such as the Centre for has made some contribution but it is the Depart- Independent Living, Parentline and organisations ment of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs that specialise in providing advice on diseases that needs to make the commitment. Will the such as Crohn’s disease should be threatened Minister provide the core funding to ensure that with having their vital core activities cut back or the centre can go forward in the years to come stopped altogether because this Government ref- and with this insecurity lifted from the heads of uses to provide core funding to the tune of an both the staff and the organisations represented additional \150,000. Responsibility for this and serviced by the centre? debacle lies somewhere between the Department of Health and Children and the Department of Mr. B. Lenihan: I am replying on behalf of the Craggy, whatever it is called. I like to call it Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Craggy Island; it seems to be headed by a Father Martin. I am pleased to take this opportunity to Jack-style figure because the Minister does not clarify some matters relating to the provision of seem to know what he is doing from one day to funding for the Carmichael Centre, North Brun- the other. swick Street, Dublin. Like the Deputies opposite, I am well aware of the important work which is Mr. B. Lenihan: It is the Department of Com- conducted at this centre by many different organ- munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. isations. The provision of health-related services for Ms Burton: These vital organisations are people with disabilities, physical, sensory or intel- threatened with closure. I will cite one example lectual, and for those with autism is a matter of for the Minister of State. For the past ten years, the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the I have been involved in the building up and health boards in the first instance. Since 1997, the development of the Centre for Independent Liv- Department has allocated significant levels of ing which is now an all-Ireland organisation offer- funding across the disability sector which has ing support to people who have serious illnesses resulted in substantial advances in the quality and which involve them becoming dependent on quantity of the health-related services which are wheelchairs. Most of these people are young. The being provided to people with disabilities. Centre for Independent Living has developed the The Carmichael Centre is Ireland’s largest cen- model of personal assistance which allows such tre for voluntary organisations, providing accom- young people — and nowadays, middle-aged and modation for 43 small voluntary organisations older people — to use a personal assistant and, working in the area of health, social services, because they have this vital support, they do not community and art. By small I do not mean small have to live in an institution. Why can this in the scope of their contribution to our life. The Government, which is rolling in money and centre provides a large range of services enabling which, it is reported today, received an extra \500 voluntary organisations to achieve their objec- million from people who dodged tax, for the sake tives in a cost-efficient manner. of \150,000 from the Department of the Minister, Approximately \100 million in additional Deputy O´ Cuı´v, not address this crisis? ongoing revenue has been provided for the main- tenance and development of services to people Mr. Costello: I thank Deputy Burton for shar- with physical and sensory disabilities. Such ser- ing her time with me. The Carmichael Centre is vices include residential, respite, home support, in my constituency in North Brunswick Street. I personal assistance, therapy and day care ser- have watched this centre grow in size in terms of vices. An additional \25 million in current expen- the services it provides, the number of organis- diture was made available by the Minister for Fin- ations represented there and its physical size. ance in the 2004 budget for services for people Only last month, the Taoiseach opened a reno- with disabilities. vation of the building costing \1.3 million. The The sum of \250,000 was allocated in 2002 by main building is a marvellous period building. the Department of Health and Children for the That seemed to indicate that the Government refurbishment of the Carmichael Centre. This was prepared to fund the service being provided grant was made in recognition of the fact that the 343 Accident and 15 June 2004. Emergency Services 344

[Mr. B. Lenihan.] Tallaght hospital was created by an amalgama- centre includes among its clients a number of tion of a number of hospitals. It was a stop-start organisations active in the health field. I under- hospital and many sods were turned before it was stand that my colleague, the Minister for Com- built. People had great expectations that this munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy O´ hospital would fulfil all the local needs, not only Cuı´v, also has a role in supporting this centre. of Tallaght but of the surrounding areas, but it The Department of Health and Children has has not done so. been in contact with the management of the Car- A woman told me of her child who has severe michael Centre in recent days to confirm that it arthritis. The child was two weeks in hospital will allocate funding to help the centre to con- waiting to be seen by a rheumatologist because tinue to provide an excellent service. the hospital does not have a consultant rheuma- tologist. The main problem seems to be a block- Ms Burton: Will it be given any money? age in the system. I do not know if it is due to the lack of step-down beds. There are many reasons Mr. B. Lenihan: The Deputy should read the but people in the area need to know what is hap- last sentence. pening in the accident and emergency depart- ment. Sometimes there may be four patients and Mr. Costello: The other Minister has not given two nurses in the observation ward with perhaps anything. He has reneged. 80 people on chairs, trolleys or beds. It is beyond belief. Accident and Emergency Services. My friend was in the hospital on a week night. One would expect an increase in attendance at Mr. Crowe: I have tabled this question because the weekend but the problem also occurs during there is great concern in Tallaght about the situa- the week. I am not criticising staff at the hospital tion in Tallaght hospital. At one stage there were who I accept are doing their best. People are ask- 45 people on trolleys and chairs in the hospital. I ing whether the problem lies with the admin- do not believe that the staff, local politicians and istration and management of the hospital or the local residents know what is happening there. lack of funding. We do not know the answer and The first sight in the accident and emergency I ask the Minister of State to provide one. I do department is people on trolleys and the number not want to hear the script. is unacceptably high. A friend of mine has a congenital heart prob- Mr. B. Lenihan: I make this reply on behalf lem. He was brought to the hospital which at that of the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy time had 18 people accommodated in the corri- Martin. Deputy Crowe will be aware that services dor. He saw an elderly woman surrounded by her at the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, incorporat- family. I do not know if the woman died or not ing the National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght, but people were very upset. Children attending are provided under an arrangement with the the hospital’s accident and emergency depart- Eastern Regional Health Authority. The auth- ment must pass by. My friend, who was wired up ority has advised the Minister that the emergency to an ECG machine, left his bed to use the toilet. department at Tallaght Hospital has been experi- When he returned, his bed was gone. I hear these encing pressure on its services which has resulted stories from people. in delays for patients awaiting admission to The son of another friend of mine had menin- hospital. That is acknowledged. gitis. He recognised the signs, rang the hospital Activity in the hospital is driven predominantly and was told by an administrator to bring the per- by emergency admissions as 74% of all admis- son to the hospital immediately. He asked sions are through the emergency department. whether he should bring his son to the local While there was a peak of 45 patients awaiting doctor but he was told to go to the hospital. That admission in the emergency department on 8 patient was waiting to be treated for between four June, which was the figure to which the Deputy and five hours. As it happened, the type of men- referred, the position has improved on a daily ingitis was not contagious, but this incident high- basis since then. The authority has reported that lights the situation in the hospital. ten patients were awaiting admission in the emer- I do not know if the Minister of State is work- gency department yesterday. ing from a script. I have a script with me but I am The authority has been liaising closely with the not working from it. People want to know if it is hospital regarding the ongoing pressures in the a case of a lack of investment in the hospital or a emergency department. Well-developed pro- lack of staff and they want to know what the cedures are in place in the hospital to manage problems are. It is becoming worse. The Irish beds as efficiently as possible. Daily bed manage- Nurses’ Organisation says it has never been so ment meetings are held with key stake holders bad and the same applies in other hospitals in to deal with all issues relating to admissions and Dublin. People need answers. If it is a problem discharges of patients in the hospital. with money or a lack of investment, we are in a A contributing factor to the delays being time of plenty and there are reports today of experienced by patients awaiting admission is the receipts of \500 million. People do not number of patients who have completed the acute understand. phase of their treatment and continue to occupy 345 Rural Transport 15 June 2004. Services 346 an acute bed. The authority has reported that on Rural Transport Services. 6 June, 38 elderly patients and 18 young chron- Mr. Perry: Slightly more than a year ago, the ically ill patients in the hospital had been deemed Minister for Transport, Deputy Brennan, fit for discharge but continued to occupy an acute launched the west Sligo rural transport initiative bed. To address the problem, an \8.8 million in Dromore West. The project has grown from package was provided by the Minister for Health strength to strength with a total of 14 scheduled and Children to the authority to facilitate the dis- services in the rural electoral area of west Sligo charge of patients from acute hospitals to a more and the south Sligo areas of Gurteen, Ballymote, appropriate setting, thus freeing up acute beds. Banada, Tourlestrane and Tubbercurry. To date, more than 40 patients in Tallaght The working group is very proud of its achieve- Hospital have benefited from this initiative and ments. The service now carries more than 800 arrangements are being made for further dis- passengers a month and more than 5,700 passen- charges in the weeks ahead. gers availed of the service in 2003. It is alarming In addition, the authority commissioned a joint that the service is due to be cancelled as a result initiative in 2003 between the South Western of the decision to reduce the allocation of \88,000 Area Health Board and the hospital to secured in 2003. The service is facing a deficit of implement a multi-disciplinary programme \36,000 in funding for 2004. designed to provide individual programmes of Millions of euros went into the coffers today as care, which would enable patients to be dis- a result of massive tax returns. This rural trans- charged with appropriate support to the com- port service, launched by the Minister and carry- munity. To date, 17 patients have been dis- ing 800 passengers per month, is regarded as a charged under this scheme. godsend by hundreds of elderly people in remote Many of the difficulties and delays experienced parts of County Sligo. It is the first time they have in emergency medicine or accident and emer- been able to use their free travel passes. There gency departments reflect system wide issues. I is no point giving out free passes if the people will outline some of the key actions the Minister concerned cannot avail of public transport. Under for Health and Children has taken in that regard. this scheme, people are picked up, taken to the I have already spoken about the number of adjacent town and returned to their doors twice patients in acute hospital beds who have com- each week. This has had a considerable impact on pleted their acute phase of treatment and are their quality of life. According to one user of the ready for discharge to a more appropriate setting. service, the service is personal, 100% accessible I have been informed by the Eastern Regional and not only benefits the passenger but gives res- Health Authority that some 250 patients have pite to carers. been discharged from acute hospitals in the Just \36,000 would fund a service availed of by region as a direct result of the funding provided 800 passengers a month but the refusal to provide by the Minister. the additional funds will lead to the service being The Minister has also provided additional cancelled. Something is wrong if this can happen funding for recruitment of additional emergency in an economy which received an additional \500 medicine consultants and consultant anaesthe- million in its coffers today. I am aware, from my tists. To date, 20 additional emergency medicine role as Chairman of the Committee of Public consultants have been recruited. Further appoint- Accounts, of the many ways in which taxpayers ments are being progressed by the health boards money is spent. This service provides extraordi- and the ERHA. The availability of senior medical nary value for money. staff in emergency medicine departments should I received a letter today from the Secretary facilitate rapid clinical decision making and General of the Department of Transport, Julie enhanced management, diagnosis and treatment O’Neill, which stated: “I regret to say that in the of patients. current year the Department has no additional Emergency medicine departments sometimes funds for the scheme.” I do not accept that reply. have to deal with injuries and conditions more I hope the Minister of State will give me some appropriate to a primary care setting. Govern- indication as to how the \36,000 required will be ment support for the development of general found. I call on Dr. Tony Crooks, chief executive practitioner out of hours co-operatives nationally officer of ADM, which is responsible for the dis- for the period 1997 to 2003 amounted to \46.5 tribution of funding secured from the Depart- million. In time, these co-operatives can be ment for rural transport, to ensure, with the Mini- developed to provide a much wider range of ser- ster, that the required sum is found. There is no vices to ensure that communities enjoy appropri- way the service can be allowed to finish at the ate access to primary care services, irrespective of end of June. size and distance from major urban centres. Just this time last year, the Minister visited I understand the authority is continuing to Sligo and had his photograph taken in a bus to actively monitor the situation and is working with launch the service. We need integrity in public hospitals and the area health boards to ensure office. I attended a public meeting attended by every effort is made to minimise waiting time for up to 100 people in support of this service. This patients being admitted through emergency service is of major benefit and offers oppor- departments of acute hospitals in the region. tunities to elderly people, the most disadvantaged 347 The 15 June 2004. Adjournment 348

[Mr. Perry.] those originally proposed for the 2003 funding in society who avail of the free travel pass. What allocations. In addition, the free travel scheme of has gone wrong that we cannot find \36,000? the Department of Social and Family Affairs was While I am not casting any aspersions on the extended to the RTI in 2003 and \400,000 was Minister of State, Deputy Brian Lenihan, I am provided for that purpose in that year. In contrast very disappointed the Minister for Transport is to 2002, practically all of the available funding for not present. It is unfair of him to the RTI in 2003 was expended during that year. 9 o’clock send the Minister of State to the It is understood from ADM Limited that the House. I hope he has not been given annualised RTI funding allocation for the years a dud reply. I ask him to return to the Minister 2002 and 2003 for the west Sligo rural transport and ask him to contact Dr. Tony Crooks, initiative was \40,000 in addition to a once-off empowering him to give the necessary funds to grant of \6,349 to facilitate some pre-develop- Mr. Michael Quigley of the west Sligo rural trans- ment work. However, only a minimal amount of port initiative to continue the service. The money this funding was expended in 2002 because the must be found. If I have to bring people from project was not in a position to roll out its services west and south Sligo to the gates of Leinster in that year. This resulted in a disproportionate House next week to get the money, I will do so. amount of the funding, \80,000, being concen- If the Minister of State does not have an trated on one year, 2003. In addition, the com- adequate reply this evening, the Minister of pany also received \6,880 from the allocation for Transport will be given a clear message next week the free travel scheme in 2003. when I come to Leinster House that the \36,000 ADM Limited advises that, while the original required to continue the transport service pro- 2004 RTI allocation for the west Sligo rural trans- vided in the areas of Ballymote, Banada, Tourles- port initiative was \49,594, this was supplemented trane and Tubbercurry, Dromore West and by a further allocation of \2,920 in April this year Enniscrone must be found. I will not take “No” arising from the distribution of a small amount for an answer on this issue. of RTI funds which had been withheld by ADM Limited at the beginning of the year to cater for Mr. B. Lenihan: I am making this reply on unexpected occurrences. It is understood that the behalf of the Minister for Transport, Deputy west Sligo rural transport initiative will also bene- Brennan. I fear I may meet the Deputy at the fit this year from funding being provided by the gates of Leinster House. Department of Social and Family Affairs arising Area Development Management Limited is from application of the free travel scheme to the managing the pilot rural transport initiative, RTI, RTI. The project might also acquire funding from on behalf of the Department of Transport. The other sources. It is understood that, in some RTI provides funding on a pilot basis for 34 com- cases, RTI schemes have been able to generate munity organisations and community partner- additional funds from statutory bodies such as health boards. ships around the country to address the transport While the Department of Transport provides needs of their areas by the provision of transport the overall funding for the RTI, ADM Limited is services. A sum of \3 million was provided annu- responsible for the specific allocations to individ- ally by the Department of Transport for the ual project groups. The Department has been in initiative in the two year period ending December \ contact with ADM Limited with regard to the 2003 and further funding of 3 million is being current difficulties of the west Sligo rural trans- provided in 2004. This \9 million commitment \ port initiative. ADM Limited advises that its compares with 4.4 million earmarked for the chief executive officer is in contact with the chief RTI in the national development plan. The RTI executive officer of the west Sligo rural transport is operational in virtually all counties with 2,500 initiative with regard to the project’s financial transport services being provided on approxi- position. mately 380 new rural routes established under the There is every indication that the rural trans- initiative. A total of 20,000 people are using the port initiative has, so far, been an excellent suc- RTI transport services every month. cess and ADM Limited is concluding a compre- ADM Limited advises that for a variety of hensive appraisal of the effectiveness of the reasons very few of the RTI pilot projects were overall scheme. When this is completed, the Mini- able to commence transport operations in 2002. ster for Transport will then consider the rural While funding of \3 million was made available transport position and the funding of rural trans- that year, expenditure on the RTI in 2002 was port projects generally in the light of findings of slow. However, the position changed consider- the appraisal. However, he regrets that in the cur- ably in 2003 as the projects began transport ser- rent year his Department has no additional funds vices. By the end of the year all 34 RTI groups, for the RTI other than the \3 million provided. including the west Sligo rural transport initiative, had become operational and many of the projects The Da´il adjourned at 9.05 p.m. until 10.30 a.m. had expanded their services significantly from on Wednesday, 16 June 2004. 349 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 350

Written Answers. 91. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will make a statement on the ———— report of the Family Support Agency. [17724/04]

The following are questions tabled by Members Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary for written response and the ministerial replies Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 received from the Departments [unrevised]. and 91 together. The Family Support Agency which I estab- Questions Nos. 1 to 12, inclusive, answered lished on 6 May 2003 brings together pro-family orally. programmes and services introduced by the Government in recent years which are designed Questions Nos. 13 to 68, inclusive, resubmitted. to promote local family support, help prevent marital breakdown, promote continuity and stab- Questions Nos. 69 to 76, inclusive, answered ility in family life and support ongoing parenting orally. relationships for children. The agency provides a direct, nationwide fam- Pension Provisions. ily mediation service and, through funding, sup- ports, promotes and develops the provision of 77. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Social marriage and relationship counselling, other fam- and Family Affairs when the requirement ily supports and the family and community ser- whereby a person reaching 65 must first retire for vices resource centre programme. a period before being able to work again and The agency has a responsibility to undertake or retain a pension will be removed, as promised in commission research, to advise, inform and assist the Joint Programme. [17505/04] me as Minister for Social and Family Affairs and Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary to promote and disseminate information about Coughlan): In addition to satisfying the relevant family-related issues. I believe that the board contribution conditions, those applying for retire- have both the necessary experience and expertise ment pension at age 65 must be retired from to steer the agency through its important first employment or self employment. Retirement is years. defined as not having earnings from employment The publication of the Family Support Agency of more than \38 per week or earnings from self- strategic plan which I launched last month employment of more than \3,174 per annum. reinforces this belief. In clear and concise terms There is no retirement condition associated with it spells out the agency’s priorities for the next old age contributory or non-contributory pen- three years. These set out to: support and sions which are both payable at 66 years of age. strengthen families; foster a supportive com- The retirement pension was introduced in 1970 munity environment for families; undertake or and was intended to bridge the gap between commission research into family related matters; retirement at 65 and the pension age for social promote the agency as a key provider of support welfare purposes, which at the time was 70 years services and information to families; and recog- of age. The qualifying age for old age pension was nise the role played by the agency’s staff and con- subsequently reduced over time to 66 years of age tinue to invest in their development. but the requirement to retire before receiving a I am satisfied with and fully support the priori- retirement pension has remained in place. ties chosen by the board of the agency and con- It is important in the context of the demo- sider they have put an effective strategy in place graphic changes our society will face in the years to successfully deliver on these priorities. ahead that we should encourage and facilitate For my part I have this year, 2004, made over \20 million available to the agency to fulfil its people who wish to extend their working lives to \ remain active. functions. Over 7 million of this is for the The Government is committed, as part of the scheme of grants for voluntary organisations pro- programme for Government, to removing the viding marriage and relationship counselling and requirement to retire at 65 in order to receive a other family supports. For the current year, this retirement pension. Progress in this regard will be will mean financial support to more than 500 made as soon as possible, having regard to the groups throughout the country. availability of resources and other priorities. The year 2004 also sees the continued develop- ment of the family and community resource cen- tre programme. In just 12 months from the estab- Family Support Services. lishment of the Family Support Agency, 18 new 78. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Mini- family resource centres have been approved for ster for Social and Family Affairs if she has inclusion in the programme and 12 of these are received a copy of the Family Support Agency’s already up and running. The agency has been strategic plan for 2004-2006, including its five given investment of \8.39 million in 2004 to drive priorities for the next two years; her views on forward this important programme. whether the agency will be able to deliver on its I also welcome and fully support the priority promise to deliver services for families around being given to the continued expansion of the the country; and if she will make a statement on family mediation service. During 2003, new the matter. [17713/04] centres opened in Sligo and Waterford, bringing 351 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 352

[Mary Coughlan.] gested in the national pensions policy initiative, to 14 the number of offices now operating and I am aware that this is an ambitious target. nationally. The overall objective of the Government’s pen- I am happy to say that two more centres are sion policy is that all citizens will have an planned for this year — in Letterkenny, to ensure adequate income on retirement — the main com- effective access to the service in the north-west, ponents being the social welfare pension and sup- and in Portlaoise, to similarly expand the service plementary pensions, either on an occupational in the midlands. A major family research pro- or personal basis. In this regard, the Pensions gramme is being completed with the publication (Amendment) Act 2002 provided for the intro- later this year of the final studies commissioned duction of personal retirement savings accounts, under the programme. The consultation process PRSAs, which became available to the public in on family issues, which I undertook last year, 2003. The PRSA is a low cost, flexible pensions together with the findings of the Irish Presidency product which is the main instrument employed conference and the OECD study on reconciling in furtherance of Government policy to increase work and family life, in which Ireland partici- supplementary pensions coverage. Take-up of the pated, have provided a wide range of material on new accounts is being monitored closely. the future direction of policies to support famil- In addition, a national pensions awareness ies. These will be fully taken into account, campaign is being run by the Pensions Board on together with the board’s strategic plan, in draw- the behalf of the Government to encourage ing up the strategy on supports for families cur- people to consider their requirements for retire- rently being prepared for publication by year end. ment and to make the necessary provision as This strategy should also greatly assist the board early as possible. In this regard \500,000 was pro- in setting its research priorities for the coming vided for the campaign in each year for 2003 and years. 2004. The view of all participants in the national I would like to compliment the dedication and pension policy initiative was that the current vol- professionalism of the board, its chief executive untary approach to supplementary pensions officer and staff. I am confident that the services should not be changed at this stage. provided by the agency in accordance with this The Government is required, under the Pen- strategic plan, will be of a high standard. Given sions (Amendment) Act 2002, to review progress the resources put at their disposal, I am confident in relation to the level of pension coverage by the board will meet the strategic priorities laid September 2006. If, at that stage, I am not happy down in the plan. with the progress being made in pursuit of our objectives on supplementary pensions coverage, Pension Provisions. other measures will have to be considered, which 79. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social would include an examination of some form of and Family Affairs her views on whether the mandatory cover. In this regard I welcome the scheme proposed recently by the Irish Insurance suggestions made by the Irish Insurance Feder- Federation to open pension accounts for children ation at their recent conference on “Closing the here can address the current shortfall in money Irish Savings Gap”. The federation, whom I met, being put away for pension schemes; her further has made a number of interesting and imaginative views on whether the Government should suggestions, including the creation of pension encourage more investment in pension schemes funds for children, on how people can be encour- rather than have persons reliant on the State pen- aged to save for their retirement. sion; and if she will make a statement on the mat- At our meeting, I suggested that the IIF should ter. [17704/04] pursue their proposal further and might wish to submit it for consideration to the Pensions Board, 84. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for which is a representative body and has a statutory Social and Family Affairs if she plans to role to advise me on pensions policy. announce a pension scheme for children that would see the Exchequer contribute a fixed Social Welfare Benefits. amount annually to pension accounts for the 1.1 million children here; if she has examined the 80. Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for viability of such a scheme in view of the fact that Social and Family Affairs her views on the cur- less than half of the population is saving for their rent level of uptake for the farm assist scheme; retirement; and if she will make a statement on and if she will make a statement on the mat- the matter. [17703/04] ter. [17655/04] Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 Coughlan): The farm assist scheme, which intro- and 84 together. duced special arrangements for farmers on low Data compiled by the Central Statistics Office incomes, was provided for in the Social Welfare on pensions coverage have indicated that just Act 1999 and came into operation with effect over 50% of workers have supplementary pen- from 7 April 1999. There are now 8,690 farm sions cover. The Government aims to increase assist customers. The current average weekly pay- this to 70% in accordance with the targets sug- ment is \142.59. 353 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 354

The farm assist scheme is a practical response 1997 demonstrates the commitment that we have by my Department to the situation of low income to providing significant real improvements for farmers and it represents a long-term safety net social welfare recipients. for them. It benefits farm families with children The real value of payments has been progress- and also provides increased payments to farming ively increased over that period. Long-term pay- couples without children and to single farmers on ments for a couple without children have risen by low income. 60% since 1997 while short-term payments for a The level of take-up is less than had been couple without children have risen by over 52%. anticipated when the scheme was first introduced The level of child income support has also in April, 1999. One of the factors impacting on increased considerably in recent years. The social the take-up of the scheme is the significant welfare payment of a couple on a short-term pay- increase in off-farm employment in recent years. ment with two children has risen by 59.5%, way However, the benefits to those who have joined ahead of inflation which increased by 24.6% over it have been significant. The scheme has brought the same period. about a worthwhile improvement for low income Most recently the 2004 budget package cost farmers and particularly for those with children \630 million and enabled the provision of and it makes a valuable contribution to support- increases well ahead of inflation for all social wel- ing those who are at the lower end of the farm fare recipients of weekly payments as well as sig- income spectrum. nificant other improvements in social welfare To increase awareness of the farm assist provisions generally. scheme, my Department undertook a major pub- As I said in the House at the time of the licity campaign in 2002. Almost \100,000 was budget, the underlying objective was to make spent on that campaign which included radio and progress towards the achievement of the various press advertising, including specialist farming commitments including the commitment on the publications, and the production and showing lowest rate of payment. Further progress will be around the country of a promotional video on made towards delivering on these commitments the scheme. in future budgets. More generally, the network of social welfare offices throughout the country provides infor- EU Social Policy. mation to members of the public on the range of schemes and services available, including the 82. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Social farm assist scheme. Information leaflets and and Family Affairs the way in which her Depart- applications forms for farm assist are available at ment has developed its role during this country’s these offices. In addition, social welfare inspec- Presidency of the European Union. [17733/04] tors in rural areas promote the scheme when Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary meeting the public in the course of their duties. Coughlan): During the Irish Presidency, my 81. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Social focus, and that of my Department has been to and Family Affairs if the Government remains on advance the EU social policy agenda generally course to bring social welfare payments to an and, in particular, to make progress in realising acceptable average payment, as promised in the the ten-year goals set by the Lisbon European Sustaining Progress agreement. [17732/04] Council in 2000. One of the goals of the Lisbon agenda is to Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary achieve greater social cohesion. Based on an Coughlan): Sustaining Progress contains a num- analysis of the second round national action plans ber of important commitments in relation to on social inclusion 2003-2005, a report on social welfare payments, including commitments: employment, social protection/inclusion and gen- to increase social welfare pensions over a five to der equality was adopted by the Council of Mini- 10 year period to 34% of average industrial earn- sters in March and reflected in a key messages ings, in line with the recommendations of the paper to the Spring European Council. national pensions policy initiative; to increase the The four key social protection/inclusion mess- level of social welfare pension to reach a target ages relate to strengthening social inclusion, mak- level of \200 by 2007 in line with the commitment ing work pay, which was the subject of a special in the programme for Government; to make pro- ministerial meeting in January, ensuring that pen- gress to increase the level of qualified adult allow- sion systems support longer working lives, and ance for pensioner spouses to the level of the old ensuring accessibility, sustainability and quality of age (non-contributory) pension; and to meet the health care and long-term care for the elderly. target for the lowest social welfare rates and One of the priorities of the Irish Presidency appropriate child equivalence levels as set out in was to secure agreement with the European Par- the revised national anti-poverty strategy by 2007, liament on the reform and simplification of regu- namely, to increase the lowest rate of social wel- lation 1408/71 which co-ordinates the social fare payments to \150, in 2002 terms, by 2007 and security rights of migrant workers, and members to achieve equivalence levels of child income sup- of their families, when they move within the port of between 33% and 35% of the personal Union. I am very pleased that, following accept- rate of payment. The level of increases in pay- ance by the European Parliament and the Coun- ments since this Government came into office in cil the new regulation was adopted on 29 April 355 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 356

[Mary Coughlan.] adversely affect children of new asylum seekers last. In addition, I hosted a special conference in who will not have sufficient money to purchase Budapest on 7 and 8 May, in co-operation with clothing and for other day-to-day expenses; her the Hungarian Government and the Commission further views on whether this may result in chil- which addressed both the future implications of dren of asylum seekers becoming destitute; and if the new simplified regulation for all 25 states and she will make a statement on the matter. the particular immediate challenges facing new [17714/04] member states in implementing the existing Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary regulation. Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 The issue of migration has also been a priority and 89 together. for my Department during the Irish Presidency. Access to social assistance and child benefit On 1 and 2 April we hosted a conference on the payments has been restricted since 1 May 2004 by theme of “Reconciling Mobility and Social the introduction of a new eligibility requirement, Inclusion”. The main focus of the conference was known as the habitual residence condition. on the role of social and employment policies in The new condition is designed to safeguard the achieving social inclusion for people moving social welfare system by restricting access to within the EU and it concluded that clear and social assistance and child benefit payments for comprehensive strategies are required at national people from other countries who have little or no level to promote employment and social inclusion connection with Ireland. All persons claiming of immigrants. welfare payments, including nationals of the new In the area of family policy and to mark the EU member states who applied for rent sup- 10th anniversary of the UN International Year of plement after 1 May, are subject to the habitual the Family, the Irish Presidency hosted a major residence condition. People who fail to satisfy the international conference on the theme “Families, habitual residence condition are offered the Change and Social Policy in Europe”. One of the option of being referred to the Reception and key conclusions was that addressing the chal- Integration Agency (RIA) of the Department of lenges posed by the profound changes affecting Justice, Equality and Law Reform who facilitate families requires at national level a strategic, inte- their departure home and provide full board grated approach involving employment, social accommodation pending departure. protection and possibly other policy areas, such The immigration status of asylum seekers from as education, health and housing. the new EU member states has been under- The Irish Presidency also progressed an initiat- written by EU treaty rights from 1 May 2004 and ive taken by previous Presidencies by hosting a they now have full access to the Irish labour mar- third meeting of people experiencing poverty in ket. In this context, the Department of Justice, Brussels at the end of May. One of the key mess- Equality and Law Reform requested new EU ages to emerge was that effective participation by member state nationals in direct provision centres people experiencing poverty is taking place and is to seek alternative accommodation. being developed across all member states to help However, they are being given ample oppor- make a decisive impact on the eradication of pov- tunity to secure alternative accommodation erty and achieve greater social cohesion. before leaving direct provision. The Department At the last meeting of the Employment, Social of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has assured Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council, I my Department that nobody from a new EU updated my EU colleagues on the key con- member state has been compelled to leave direct clusions of the various conferences. In my view provision without there being an alternative the successful outcome of this ambitious pro- accommodation option available to that person. gramme represents a significant contribution to Asylum seekers who are accommodated in direct advancing the EU social policy agenda. provision centres have all of their basic needs, including the needs of their children, provided for Social Welfare Benefits. within the direct provision system. 83. Ms McManus asked the Minister for Social Asylum seekers in direct provision are also \ and Family Affairs the arrangements that have paid a weekly allowance of 19.10 per adult and \ been made to accommodate asylum-seeking fam- 9.60 in respect of each child dependant. In ilies from the new EU states who may have lost addition, an asylum seeker can also apply to a the entitlement to stay in State-run accommo- health board for a single payment of supplemen- dation following the accession of the new mem- tary welfare allowance to meet an exceptional ber states; the number of these persons who do need. These payments are generally made for the not qualify for rent allowance due to the fact that purchase of clothing and are not subject to the they do not satisfy the habitual residence require- habitual residence condition. ment; and if she will make a statement on the My Department asked each health board to matter. [17712/04] furnish data on the number of applications for supplementary welfare allowance, including rent 89. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social supplement, which have been refused on habitual and Family Affairs the reason her Department residence grounds. Six boards have responded so has decided to scale back social welfare benefits far and they report that some 68 applications for non-residents; her views on whether this will were refused on habitual residence grounds dur- 357 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 358 ing the month of May. This includes nationals of years for those in receipt of an unemployment the accession states as well as nationals of other payment. countries. A more detailed breakdown is not Effectively from March 2004 persons in receipt available. of unemployment benefit-assistance accessing the I am satisfied that the introduction of the habit- self-employed strand of the scheme only require ual residence condition will not adversely affect three years on their payment to qualify for par- asylum seekers in the direct provision system. ticipation in the scheme. I will continue to moni- tor the scheme but I have no immediate plans to Question No. 84 answered with Question change the existing qualifying criteria. No. 79. 86. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the progress to date of her review Social Welfare Benefits. of the supplementary welfare allowance, with 85. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Social particular reference to the rent supplement; and and Family Affairs if she will reverse the decision if she will make a statement on the matter. taken in budget 2004 to restrict the back-to-work [17645/04] allowance to those who are three years or more unemployed; and if she will make a statement on Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary the matter. [13950/04] Coughlan): The supplementary welfare scheme was selected for review in my Department’s series Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary of expenditure reviews largely because of the Coughlan): The back-to-work allowance scheme increasing numbers of recipients on the scheme, which was introduced in September 1993 is part the consequent rise in expenditure and the range of my Department’s programme of initiatives of changes being proposed in relation to individ- designed to assist long-term unemployed people, ual aspects of the scheme. The review is being lone parents and other social welfare recipients carried out by an interdepartmental working to return to the active labour force. There are two group chaired by my Department and is com- strands to the scheme, the back to work prised of representatives from my Department, enterprise allowance for self-employment and the the Department of Finance, the Department of back to work allowance for employees. Health and Children and the health boards. The allowance was introduced at a time when The review involves a fundamental appraisal of long-term unemployment stood at 8.9%. In its the scheme in which all of its aspects are being early years the scheme proved very effective in examined with the aim of improving customer helping people who had been long-term unem- service and administrative efficiency. The review ployed to return to the labour force. However, also provides an opportunity to address the role changes in labour market conditions since the of the health boards’ community welfare service mid-1990s have reduced the need for the scheme. generally in tackling poverty and social exclusion. This is illustrated by the drop in numbers availing The working group carried out an extensive of it in recent years. At present, there are 14,060 consultation process. This resulted in 145 sub- participants in the scheme, compared to 39,343 in missions being received by the working group. October 2000 when the scheme reached its peak. More than 700 issues were raised in these sub- The scheme was reviewed in 2002 in light of missions covering some 18 broad themes. Due to economic and labour market changes and, in par- the number and nature of the issues raised, the ticular, the drop in unemployment levels since the working group has decided to draw up an interim introduction of the scheme in 1993. This review report. This is being drafted and I hope to receive also took account of an evaluation of the scheme it shortly. by independent consultants. They recommended As the Deputy is aware, I am devoting a con- that the scheme should be restructured in light of siderable amount of effort to reform of the rent the changes in the labour market. In particular, supplement element of the supplementary wel- the review recommended that the scheme be fare allowance scheme. In recognition of the fact refocused on the longer-term unemployed, that that rent supplements had become in effect a the non-financial supports be enhanced and that scheme of long-term housing support for many the overall numbers on the scheme be reduced. people, the Government set up a planning group In January 2003, therefore, the qualifying per- to rationalise current arrangements for housing iod for persons on unemployment benefit-assist- support. Our objective is to ensure that long-term ance was increased to five years. Recipients of housing needs are addressed by providing appro- other social welfare qualifying payments were not priate solutions rather than through the social affected by the change. The scheme is continually welfare system. monitored to ensure its relevance to current lab- Arising from the work of this group, an action our market and economic conditions. I recog- plan is now being finalised. The action plan will nised that there was some difficulty being experi- include criteria for determining which categories enced by persons wishing to enter self- of rent supplement recipient will be eligible to employment after five years’ attachment to the have their needs addressed by the housing auth- live register. I announced in budget 2004 that the orities, an implementation timescale, financing qualifying period for access to the self-employed arrangements and other matters. Discussions strand of the scheme would be reduced to three between my Department and the Department of 359 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 360

[Mary Coughlan.] In 2003, \3.29 million was spent on the school the Environment, Heritage and Local Govern- meals programme. It is estimated that 382 ment in that regard are at an advanced stage and schools, with a total of more than 50,650 pupils I expect to be in a position to bring proposals to benefited from the urban scheme, while 347 Government shortly. schools and voluntary organisations received funding which benefited approximately 26,000 Food Poverty. children under local school meals projects. Budget 2004 provided \6.08 million for the 87. Ms Burton asked the Minister for Social programme. and Family Affairs her views on the recent St. My Department is working with the Depart- Vincent de Paul, Crosscare, and the Combat Pov- ment of Education and Science to extend the erty Agency report on food poverty here; the school meals programme. In this regard the efforts her Department has made to ensure that Department of Education and Science is using its society’s most vulnerable have access to healthy schools completion programme and Giving Chil- and nutritious food; and if she will make a state- dren an Even Break initiative to target disadvan- ment on the matter. [17699/04] taged schools. It is actively promoting the school 104. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and meals programme through the local schools com- Family Affairs the extent of the problem of food pletion programme co-ordinators. poverty here; and if she will make a statement on The range of recommendations advanced in the matter. [17646/04] the Food Poverty and Policy study will be care- fully considered both by my Department and by Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary other relevant Departments. Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 87 and 104 together. Social Welfare Benefits. The recently published study entitled Food Poverty and Policy is an informative and chal- 88. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social lenging piece of research and will add consider- and Family Affairs her proposals to improve or extend the availability of the carer’s allowance; ably to awareness of this issue. The study focuses and if she will make a statement on the mat- on the relationship between patterns of food con- ter. [17698/04] sumption, socio-economic circumstance, and issues of affordability and access to food. 100. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social In seeking to quantify the extent of food pov- and Family Affairs if she plans to give recognition erty in Ireland, the study draws on earlier to the vital work full-time family carers provide research undertaken by the Economic and Social to this State; and if she will make a statement on Research Institute. It notes that a high proportion the matter. [17649/04] of those living in consistent poverty experienced 105. Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for deprivation in relation to the three food related Social and Family Affairs if she will relax the basic deprivation indicators. However, the pro- means test for carer’s allowance; and if she will portion of individuals going without each item make a statement on the matter. [17650/04] declined significantly between 1994 and 2001, reflecting the fall in consistent poverty generally, 107. Caoimhghı´nO´ Caola´in asked the Minister which is down from 15.1% in 1994 to 5.2% in for Social and Family Affairs when she will 2001. implement the programme for Government com- The study found that socially disadvantaged mitment to expand the income limits for the car- people: eat less well compared to those from er’s allowance in order that all persons on aver- socially advantaged groups; spend relatively more age industrial incomes can qualify. [17540/04] money on food; have difficulty accessing a variety 604. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Social of nutritionally balanced good quality and afford- and Family Affairs if she has plans to abolish the able foodstuffs; and are restricted by a combi- means test for the carer’s allowance; if she will nation of factors, including their dependants, per- substantially increase the income disregards to sonal preferences, access to shops and financial allow more persons qualify for this benefit; her limitations, in maintaining a healthy diet. views on whether this would reduce the cost to The study recognises the crucial importance of the State of nursing home care; and if she will school meals’ provision in addressing food pov- make a statement on the matter. [17736/04] erty among children. The school meals pro- gramme operated by my Department makes an 614. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social important contribution to ensuring that school and Family Affairs if she will evaluate the total children receive better nutrition and contributes number of cases whereby carers are providing a to improved school attendance and quality of service but do not qualify for carer’s allowance learning. The current programme provides fund- with a view to extending and improving the ing for the urban school meals scheme, which scheme to enable more persons qualify; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17881/04] operates in conjunction with certain local auth- orities, as well as for a number of locally operated 615. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social school meals projects in place in both urban and and Family Affairs if her attention has been rural areas. drawn to the moneys saved to the Exchequer by 361 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 362 numerous carers who do not currently receive a abolition of the means test could cost in the payment with a view to acknowledging such con- region of \180 million per annum. It is debatable tribution by way of recompense; and if she will whether this could be considered to be the best make a statement on the matter. [17882/04] use of resources. The views of some support and Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary health organisations is that if resources of this Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 88, scale were available, it would be more beneficial 100, 105, 107, 604, 614 and 615 together. to carers to invest in the type of community care Supporting carers in our society has been a services which would support them in their caring priority of the Government since 1997. Over that role, such as additional respite care facilities, period weekly payment rates to carers have been more home helps, public health nurses and other greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer’s such services. allowance have been significantly eased, coverage While matters relating to the nursing home of the scheme has been extended and new subvention are the responsibility of the Minister schemes such as carer’s benefit and the respite for Health and Children, I will say that, while the care grant introduced. abolition of the carer’s allowance means test The Central Statistics Office, CSO, included a might have some impact on recourse to the nurs- question in the 2002 census to identify the num- ing home subvention, it would not reduce the ber of persons providing unpaid personal care for overall cost of care. Research suggests that com- a friend or family member with a long-term ill- munity care can be as costly, if not more so, than ness, health problem or disability. The analysis of institutional care where a proper and adequate this portion of the census found that: 40,500 range of community services are provided. people provide 43 hours or more unpaid personal Government policy is strongly in favour of sup- help per week, or more than six hours per day; porting care in the community and enabling 23,400 people provide 15 to 42 hours unpaid per- people to remain in their own homes for as long sonal help per week, or between two and six as possible. The development of the range of sup- hours per day; and 84,900 people provide one to ports for carers will continue to be a priority for 14 hours unpaid personal help per week, or up to this Government and, building on the found- two hours per day. ations now in place, we will continue to develop There are currently approximately 22,000 car- the types of services which recognise the value of ers in receipt of carer’s allowance or carer’s bene- the caring ethos and which provide real support fit. This means that more than 50% of the 40,500 and practical assistance to the people involved. carers, as estimated by the CSO to be caring for Question No. 89 answered with Question more than six hours per day, are in receipt of a No. 83. specific carer’s payment from the Department of Social and Family Affairs. However, people pro- Social Welfare Fraud. viding lower levels of care would not necessarily meet all the qualifying conditions for receipt of a 90. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Social carer’s allowance. and Family Affairs the efforts her Department is The primary objective of the carer’s allowance making to prevent fraudulent social welfare is to provide income support to low income car- claims; the amount her Department estimates has ers. In line with other social assistance schemes, been claimed fraudulently here for each of the the means test is applied to the carer’s allowance past three years; and if she will make a statement so as to ensure that limited resources are directed on the matter. [17716/04] to those in greatest need. The means test applied 118. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for to the allowance has been eased significantly in Social and Family Affairs the payments from her the past few years, most notably with the intro- Department which are most subjected to fraud; duction of disregards of spouses’ earnings. and the extent to which. [17730/04] In April 2004 the weekly income disregards increased to \250 for a single carer and to \500 Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary for a couple. The effect of this increase will, for Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 example, ensure that a couple with two children, and 118 together. earning a joint annual income of up to \29,328 Fraud against the social welfare system arises can qualify for the maximum rate of carer’s allow- in a number of different ways. In some instances ance, while the same couple, if they had an persons claiming social welfare payments make income of \46,384 could still qualify for the mini- false declarations or conceal material facts in mum carer’s allowance, the free schemes and the order to obtain payment. In other cases there is respite care grant. deliberate failure to notify the Department of a As average industrial earnings in December change in circumstances or failure by an 2003 were approximately \29,100 per annum, employer to comply with PRSI regulations. good progress is being made towards the commit- The control strategy of my Department which ment in the Programme for Government that all was revised in 2003 provides for a three-pronged persons on average industrial earnings will be approach to control: prevention — having sys- able to qualify for the carer’s allowance. The tems and procedures in place that prevent and complete abolition of the means test would have minimise the risk of incorrect payments, fraud substantial cost implications. It is estimated that and abuse; detection — detecting incorrect pay- 363 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 364

[Mary Coughlan.] which is in place to regulate this process. Over- ments, fraud and abuse of schemes and unpaid payments which result from fraud are given great- PRSI contributions by employers and the self- est priority and their recovery is vigorously employed at the earliest possible stage; and deter- pursued. rence — ensuring that the public are aware of the Plans are being put in place for a new central risks and penalties of defrauding the social wel- overpayments and debt management system fare system and dealing decisively with cases of within my Department. When fully operational, fraud and abuse detected, including prosecutions this will provide a facility to enhance the targeting where necessary. of control work, make overpayment recovery This strategy entails the use of a mix of more effective and provide better and more up measures to control fraud and abuse. These to date information on the main types of fraud include desk review of claim papers, home visits, occurring within the schemes. the issue of mailshots to selected claimants, data- My Department’s policy is to consider all cases base checking and employer inspections and of fraud for prosecution and revised prosecution medical reviews in the case of illness payments. guidelines were issued to staff in February 2003. The detection of fraud and abuse of the social The issue of these guidelines has had a significant welfare system is an integral part of the day-to- impact on the number of cases submitted to the day work of my Department. The work of all staff Chief State Solicitor’s office to initiate pros- who are engaged in any aspect of claims pro- ecutions during the period in question — 177 in cessing is to some degree concerned with 2001; 245 in 2002 and 405 in 2003. Current trends preventing and detecting fraud and abuse. indicate that there will be some 600 such cases There are some 600 staff at local, regional and in 2004. national level whose work is entirely or signifi- I am committed to ensuring that social welfare cantly related to the control of fraud and abuse payments are available to those who are entitled of the social welfare system. Some 300 of these to them and that they are delivered in an effective are responsible for routine investigations under and efficient way. I am also determined to ensure the various schemes and for reporting on and fol- that abuse of the system is prevented and is dealt lowing up suspected cases of fraud where they are with effectively when detected and I will take discovered. As a result of control activities car- whatever steps are necessary to achieve this. ried out by these staff, savings of \851 million were achieved during the years 2001, 2002 and Question No. 91 answered with Question 2003. No. 78. Controls are exercised at both the initial claim stage and at subsequent stages during the claim Anti-Poverty Strategy. life cycle. Claims are reviewed on a regular and 92. Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Social targeted basis. Means tested payments are and Family Affairs her views on a recent report reviewed at certain intervals or when there are by the ESRI on the number of work poor house- indications of a change in circumstances, which holds here; the efforts she has made to reduce the may not have been reported to the Department. number of work-poor households throughout the Those in receipt of illness payments are called for country; and if she will make a statement on the a medical examination by the Department’s matter. [17700/04] medical assessors. Customers in receipt of unem- ployment payments are also checked on an Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary ongoing basis to verify continued compliance Coughlan): The recently published ESRI report, with such requirements as being available for and Work-poor Households: The Welfare Impli- genuinely seeking employment. The Department cations of Changing Household Employment Pat- also has a programme of employer inspections to terns, examines how the employment situation of ensure compliance with the provisions relating working age Irish households has changed over a to PRSI. period of remarkable economic and employment The control programme is carefully monitored growth between 1994 and 2000. and the various measures are continuously The report found that households where none refined to ensure that they remain effective. The of the adults of working age 18 to 64 years were total amount of overpayments set up as a result working fell from 22% in 1994 to less than 14% of detected fraud or suspected fraud for the years in 2000. The rate of work poor households, which in question was \11 million in 2001, \11.8 million was one of the highest in the EU in 1985, fell to in 2002 and \13.7 million in 2003. The payments the EU average by 2000. The report showed that most subjected to fraud for these years were the decline in joblessness was particularly strong those paid to unemployment recipients which among households with children. In 1994, 27% of accounted for \6.4 million — 58% — in 2001; children lived in jobless households, but this fell \8.1 million — 69% — in 2002; and \9.7 million to 9% in 2000. This is a particularly positive — 71% — in 2003. development in the context of the Government’s It is my Department’s policy to seek recovery objective of reducing child poverty. of all moneys incorrectly paid and every effort is Those households shown to be at particular made to recover overpayments in full, having risk of joblessness were the households of older regard to the provisions of a code of practice people aged 55 to 64 years, lone parents, those 365 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 366 with a chronic health problem or disability, those schemes and services are publicised on our webs- without qualifications and those with a history of ite at www.welfare.ie Selective use is also made of unskilled work. These types of household were free-phone telephone services to provide infor- also more likely to be persistently work poor, that mation on new schemes and services and at par- is, to have no one in employment for three or ticular times of the year, such as budget time. more years. As regards information products, my Depart- The report highlights the importance of ment produces a comprehensive range of infor- employment as a route out of poverty and the mation booklets covering each social welfare pay- significant progress which has been made in this ment. These are widely available from the regard. It also highlights the central role of poor network of 130 social welfare local offices and educational outcomes in increasing vulnerability branch offices throughout the country as well as to household joblessness. Improving access to and from citizen’s information centres and many local completion of formal education is thus a key pol- organisations. Information is also available from icy tool in preventing households becoming information officers located in social welfare local work poor. offices who give talks to many groups and organ- The proportion of work poor households isations and attend exhibitions and seminars. headed up by lone parents fell from 70% of such My Department also works closely with volun- households in 1997 to 41% in 2000. The report tary and community organisations involved in an does, however, raise concerns about the quality information giving role. A number of such organ- and long-term sustainability of some forms of isations receive funding on an annual basis lone parent employment. Of households where towards the cost of providing welfare rights and the reference person was disabled or chronically information services for their target groups. ill, 60% were found to be persistently work poor. Consultation with our customers is another Sickness or disability benefits accounted for the route towards understanding their needs and biggest share of welfare income among work poor expectations. We use a range of methods such as households in 2000. The study notes that the dis- customer panels, customer surveys and comment abled and chronically ill can face a number of cards. The findings of our customer surveys are, barriers to participation in the labour market and in the main, very positive and show a high overall reinforces the need for these barriers to be satisfaction rating with the services provided, addressed. including information provision. The report will be of particular value in the I should also refer to the work of Comhairle ongoing development of the Government’s anti- which is the national information agency coming poverty strategy and in focusing attention on the under the aegis of my Department with responsi- needs of those categories of households most bility for supporting the provision of independent likely to have no one in work. information, advice and other supports to all citi- zens, including those with disabilities. Comhairle Social Welfare Benefits. supports a network of some 85 citizen’s infor- mation centres whose role is to provide infor- 93. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Social mation to members of the public on the full range and Family Affairs if she has satisfied herself that of social services. all persons entitled to social welfare payments have their attention drawn to their entitlements; As regards upcoming promotional campaigns, if she has plans for additional promotional or my Department is planning later this year to pro- information campaigns to ensure that persons mote the role of our social welfare local offices as have their attention drawn to their entitlements; key information contact points in disseminating if her Department evaluates the effect of infor- information on social welfare entitlements across mation and promotional campaigns on the uptake all age groups. In addition, we plan to undertake an information campaign designed to promote of entitlements; and if she will make a statement carer’s benefit for insured workers who leave on the matter. [17652/04] work to care for persons in need of full-time care Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary and attention. Coughlan): An essential element of the effective The primary purpose of advertising by my delivery of the social welfare schemes and ser- Department is to reach the relevant target audi- vices for which my Department is responsible is ence and I am satisfied that that objective is gen- the provision of comprehensive information in a erally met. In so far as is possible, surveys are clear and simple manner. The objective of my undertaken to assess the impact of advertising Department’s information policy is to ensure that campaigns in terms of scheme uptake and the all citizens are made aware of their entitlements results are generally positive. For example, a sur- across all social welfare schemes and supports vey undertaken following an extensive campaign and are kept informed of changes and improve- promoting the personal public services number in ments as they occur. 2003 year showed an awareness level of 82% My Department directs information to citizens compared with a corresponding level of the order on new schemes and services through advertising, of 15% from a 2001 survey. using an appropriate mix of national and provin- cial media, and through information leaflets, fact Question No. 94 answered with Question sheets, posters and direct mailshots. All our No. 76. 367 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 368

Anti-Poverty Strategy. Republic can undertake free travel within their own jurisdictions. They can also avail of free 95. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been cross-border journeys on bus and rail services. As drawn to the strategic plan 2004-2006 from One the Deputy will be aware, the programme for Family, which calls for equality and social Government contains a commitment to introduce inclusion for one-parent families here; and if she a system of all-Ireland free travel for pensioners will make a statement on the matter. [17708/04] and other eligible social welfare customer categ- ories. This would enable pass holders to make Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary onward journeys free of charge in the other Coughlan): I welcome the new stage in the jurisdiction. development of this organisation, formerly I intend to have this scheme in operation known as Cherish and now renamed One Family, before the end of the Government’s term of which has been providing, very effectively, sup- office. Officials from my Department have held port and empowerment for one-parent families initial discussions on the all-Ireland free travel for more than 30 years. Its overall aim now is to scheme with their counterparts in the Depart- affect positive change and achieve equality and ment for Regional Development for Northern social inclusion for all one-parent families. Its Ireland, in the context of regular liaison between strategic plan for 2004-06 sets out how it plans to the two organisations in regard to the existing achieve that aim through helping all one-parent cross-border free travel scheme. families in providing for their basic needs, A number of policy and operational issues advancing their rights and working to affect posi- must resolved in regard to the proposed new tive change. scheme, including options for joint funding and Prior to the release of the plan I met with the the possible use of smart cards My Department director of One Family and discussed with her the will continue to progress these issues with the goals set out in the plan. I share the commitment northern authorities and participating transport of One Family to achieving equality and social operators, with the intention of finalising con- inclusion for one-parent families. Its position and tracts and funding provisions for the new scheme proposals will be fully taken into account in the as soon as possible. strategy on supports for families being prepared for issue before end year, and in the ongoing con- text of the national anti-poverty strategy, given Pension Provisions. the vulnerability of this group to poverty and 97. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Social and social exclusion. Family Affairs the number of persons currently Employment is the best route out of poverty. in receipt of a State pension; her Department’s Reconciling work and family life is a major prob- assessment of the numbers of persons likely to be lem for one parent families. Priority will be given in receipt of State pensions over the next decade to further developing the supports given to lone and the provisions which are being made in that parents who opt to work outside the home in regard; and if she will make a statement on the enabling them to meet both the demands of work matter. [17709/04] and care for family. One Family offers a comprehensive range of Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary professional services to one parent families, those Coughlan): At the end of May 2004, there were experiencing a crisis pregnancy and those work- 202,710 people receiving an old age contributory ing with one parent families. I was pleased to be or retirement pension and 85,877 receiving an old in a position to approve a grant of \4,000 this age non-contributory pension. An actuarial year under the scheme of grants for marriage and review of the social insurance fund, undertaken relationship counselling to assist in increasing its on behalf of my Department in 2002, projected current capacity and the accessibility of its coun- that the number of recipients of old age contribu- selling services. I look forward to working with tory and retirement pensions will increase to the organisation in light of its strategic plan on 255,000 by 2011 and 321,000 by 2016. The both policy development and improved service increase will, to some extent, be balanced by a provision, and towards meeting their aims for one reduction in the number of people receiving an parent families of greater equality and social old age non-contributory pension. The numbers inclusion brought about by positive change. receiving this pension have declined by more than 20% in the last ten years, which reflects improved Social Welfare Benefits. social insurance coverage and increased labour force participation, particularly among women. 96. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Social In common with other European countries, the and Family Affairs the position regarding the population of Ireland is ageing as a result of a implementation of an all-Ireland free travel combination of increasing life expectancy and a scheme of pensioners; and if she will make a declining birth rate. The decline in the birth rate statement on the matter. [17707/04] is relatively recent and this, coupled with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary effects of high emigration for much of the period Coughlan): Under existing arrangements free tra- up to the 1990s, has resulted in Ireland having the vel pass holders in Northern Ireland and the lowest proportion of older people in the EU with 369 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 370

11.2% aged 65 and over, compared to the current allowance scheme, including rent supplements EU average of 16.1%. under that scheme. The measures were projected The proportion of older people in Ireland will to yield savings of \55.8 million in 2004. remain at broadly the same level for the next ten In some instances, including the back to edu- years after which it is projected to increase rap- cation allowance and certain changes in unem- idly to 15% in 2021, 19% in 2031 and 28% in ployment benefit, the changes have not come into 2056. A similar situation exists in regard to the operation. In other cases, where changes have number of pensioners relative to the number at been implemented, it is not possible to quantify work. Ageing, therefore, presents the same chal- precisely the numbers affected by the measures lenge to Ireland in meeting growing pension costs in question or the accruing savings in that, where as to other countries except that we have a longer disallowances occur, the specific reasons for such period to prepare for its full impact. The popu- disallowances may not be recorded on payment lation projections suggest no special measures are computer systems. required in the timescale envisaged by the Data are, however, available in most cases on Deputy. However, the Government is making numbers in receipt of the relevant payments preparations, through the national pensions immediately before the measures were intro- reserve fund, to part fund State pensions costs duced and the current position. This data supply from 2025 onwards. some indication of the number of persons Pensions have been an important issue at EU affected but it is important to note that the num- level in recent years. This is not surprising given ber in receipt of a scheme can and does fluctuate that the challenges facing pensions systems are for a wide variety of reasons, such as, for more immediate for other member states. The example, seasonal factors in the case of unem- EU has assessed national pensions systems under ployment. the agreed objectives of adequacy, financial sus- With regard to the one-parent family payment tainability and modernisation. In this regard, a scheme, where transitional half-rate payments joint EU Commission and Council report, pub- were discontinued, there are 460 recipients of lished in 2003, considered that Ireland has made such payments, a reduction of 120. These tran- good progress in ensuring both the financial sus- sitional arrangements provided for the retention tainability and adequacy of our pensions system. of entitlement to half of the previous level of pay- The report concluded our system appears to be, ment for one year where a recipient exceeded the in broad terms, financially sustainable despite weekly earnings threshold of \293 per week. projected major increases in future pensions With regard to short-term social insurance expenditure. The situation will be kept under claims, the period for linking claims to previous review. claims was increased from 13 to 26 weeks. The number of linked claims has increased by 2,800 to Social Welfare Benefits. 21,900. This measure does not directly affect the 98. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social rate of benefit payable, but may cause entitle- and Family Affairs the total projected savings in ment to exhaust earlier. This effect will, in certain her Department arising from cuts introduced in cases, be offset by the retention of entitlements the budget for 2004; the areas in respect of which which would not have applied without the savings have occurred and the extent to which; extended linking period. Persons who exhaust the number of persons to date affected by these their entitlement to unemployment or disability cuts; the extent or degree to which their payment benefit may claim unemployment assistance or or entitlement has been restricted or affected; the supplementary welfare allowance, respectively. number of applicants who have been refused rent It is not possible to establish the numbers supplement under the six months rule; and if she affected by the increase from 39 to 52 in the num- will make a statement on the matter. [17697/04] ber of paid contributions required for entitlement to benefit. Affected persons may claim unem- 610. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social ployment assistance or supplementary welfare and Family Affairs the number of persons whose allowance, as appropriate. The earnings threshold payment or entitlements have been cut or disal- for payment of graduated rates of short-term lowed since the introduction of the 2004 budget; social insurance was raised from \88.88 to \150 and if she will make a statement on the mat- to restore the previous relationship with standard ter. [17877/04] rates of payment. The number of graduated rates Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary of payment has increased by 2,000 to 8,500. Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 Affected persons may be entitled to unemploy- and 610 together. ment assistance or supplementary welfare allow- The questions relates to the effect of the ance, as appropriate. measures announced in November 2003 in the In the case of child dependant allowance pay- context of the 2004 Estimates. These measures ments to recipients of disability and unemploy- included changes to the back to education allow- ment benefit, there were 63,000 payments of half- ance, one parent family payment, certain child rate allowance in payment in cases where the dependant allowance, changes in the conditions spouse-partner of the recipient was in employ- of entitlement to short-term social insurance pay- ment and earning more than \210 per week, the ments and changes in the supplementary welfare then limit. This allowance was discontinued 371 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 372

[Mary Coughlan.] who have reached the age of consent and through where earnings exceed \300 per week. The num- prohibiting discrimination on grounds of sexual ber of such allowances in payment is 46,000 and orientation. the weekly rate payable is \8.40 per child. A further stage is to afford legal protection to In the case of supplementary welfare allowance same sex couples living together in a long term the numbers of rent supplement payments have relationship. One option would be to afford such decreased since the beginning of 2004 to 58,100, relationships the same legal protection as that a drop of 1,900. The minimum contribution for currently afforded married couples though this all recipients increased by \1 per week. Data are may not be generally accepted. It could be not available on the numbers of persons affected counterproductive, and even detrimental to the by the requirement, in certain cases, to have been interests of gays and lesbians, to go against public in rented accommodation for six months. opinion on such a sensitive issue. I do recognise, The number of cre`che supplements has fallen however, that same sex couples have the same from 1,800 to 1,450 while the number of MABS needs, as a couple, for family life, as other citi- supplements has fallen from 370 to 240. The num- zens, and that appropriate legal protection for ber of diet supplements has fallen from 13,580 to that relationship should be provided in that 13,180. The rate payable to persons who were in regard. receipt of the supplement prior to its commence- The Law Reform Commission has addressed ment in January is unchanged and the rate pay- this issue in a recent report in the context of the able to claimants in 2004 depends on their means granting of legal protection to cohabiting couples. and the category of diet which they are on. I trust this report will help to inform public I would like to re-emphasise that the changes opinion on the various issues involved and on var- in numbers outlined may be due in part to factors ious possibilities for their resolution. I hope it will other than the policy changes which were made. lead to a calm and constructive debate and thus I am satisfied the measures in question have been help in promoting the further social inclusion of implemented in a way which respects the original gays and lesbians, to which I, as Minister for both purpose of the schemes and services in question. Social and Family affairs, am fully committed. Furthermore, these measures produced savings In addition, I have given a commitment to a which, in turn, were directly reinvested in a sub- review of the overall social welfare code in regard stantial 2004 budget package of \630 million. A to the requirements of the Equal Status Act 2000. budget package of this magnitude enabled the The Equality Authority has welcomed this provision of increases well ahead of inflation for review, which will be conducted in consultation all social welfare recipients of weekly payments with all interested parties. The review will be as well as significant general improvements in based on a framework to be agreed with the social welfare provision generally. Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The scope and terms of reference of the Question No. 99 answered with Question review and the necessary arrangements for No. 76. undertaking it are being considered.

Question No. 100 answered with Question Child Poverty. No. 88. 102. Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the measures she has put in Proposed Legislation. place since taking office to tackle child pov- 101. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for erty. [17544/04] Social and Family Affairs the reason she views this country as not ready for legislation protecting Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary the legal rights of all co-habiting couples, regard- Coughlan): Tackling child poverty has been and less of sexual orientation. [17731/04] continues to be amongst my key priorities since taking office. Child poverty can seriously dimin- Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary ish the experience and enjoyment of childhood. Coughlan): The Deputy is referring to a reply I It can also greatly inhibit the realisation of the gave to a press query during the Irish Presidency potential of children, which can not only have conference, Families, Change and Social Policy in major negative lifelong consequences for their Europe, on the recognition of same sex partners individual well being, but also, in economic terms, with children as a form of family. My comment for human capital and for social cohesion. was that, “in terms of official recognition, I do Strategies to address child poverty and the not think Ireland is ready to accept gay marriages measures to give effect to them are set out in the as a social norm.” revised national anti-poverty strategy, the The conference was examining the profound national children’s strategy and, more recently, in social, economic and demographic changes taking the national action plan against poverty and place and the impact these are having on families, social exclusion. The overall target is to reduce which would encompass same sex couples. Much the number of children who are consistently poor has been done to afford legal protection to gay to below 2% by 2007 and, if possible, to eliminate and lesbian people as individuals, through the consistent poverty amongst children by then. Sig- decriminalising of homosexual activity for those nificant progress has been made towards achiev- 373 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 374 ing this target. By 2001, the number of children research carried out by the UN, OECD, and the who are consistently poor had fallen to 6.5% — Council of Europe, and not least the findings of down from 15.3% in 1997. the international conference hosted by the Irish One of the key factors underpinning this Presidency in May entitled Families, Change and reduction in child poverty is the reduction in the Social Policy in Europe, supported by the EU numbers of parents who are unemployed. Our Commission. The report on this conference will aim is to continue to maintain high levels of be published shortly. employment and to remove obstacles to taking The Commission on the Family in its report up employment, especially in the case of lone par- recommended that consideration be given to pro- ents and parents with large families. This vision for family impact assessments on Govern- approach is reflected in the investment that has ment policies and programmes, which would be been made in child benefit, which offers an effec- akin to the family proofing of Government poli- tive means of channelling income support to low cies referred to by the Deputy. The Commission’s income families in order to tackle child poverty. proposal was based on recommendations in a Payments amount to \131.60 for the first and 1995 UN publication entitled Indicative Guide second children and \165.30 for third and sub- for Action on Families. Family proofing or family sequent children. impact assessments of Government policies could The importance of tackling child poverty is be useful tools for monitoring and evaluating rel- reflected in the fact that ending child poverty was evant policies that affect families and, accord- identified as one of ten special initiatives being ingly, their use will be examined in the context of undertaken under Sustaining Progress. Under drawing up the strategy. this initiative, key policy issues are being addressed, including, for instance: child income Question No. 104 answered with Question support arrangements; the development of a No. 87. strategy for strengthening families; initiation of a longitudinal study of children; and barriers to Question No. 105 answered with Question employment, particularly for lone parents and No. 88. larger families. The work being undertaken under the special initiative will further enhance our Social Welfare Benefits. capacity to tackle the issue of child poverty. 106. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will remove the \107 Social Welfare Code. cap on rent supplement in view of the hardship it 103. Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for is causing. [17541/04] Social and Family Affairs if she will consider fam- 117. Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Social ily proofing Government policy; and if she will and Family Affairs her views on the ESRI report, make a statement on the matter. [17647/04] Housing, Poverty and Wealth in Ireland; her Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary further views on whether increases in the rent Coughlan): The development of integrated poli- supplement are the best way to support persons cies to support families is one of my main priori- vulnerable to high rents set by landlords; and if ties as Minister with responsibility for family she will make a statement on the matter. affairs. It is my intention to provide for the [17706/04] ongoing development of such policies in a strat- Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary egy for families and family life to be published Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 before the end of this year, the tenth anniversary and 117 together. of the UN International Year of the Family. I Following a review of the maximum rent limits intend that the strategy will set out the trends in carried out in my Department last year I regard to families and family life, the challenges increased the \107 limit to \115 with effect from to be faced, the appropriate strategies to meet 1 January 2004. I am satisfied that, rather than these challenges, the measures to be taken to give having an adverse impact, setting maximum levels effect to the strategies in the immediate term and has improved the position of people on low the measures to be planned for in the longer incomes in acquiring accommodation because it term. It will include the institutional arrange- has a stabilising effect on the market. Setting ments required to ensure the measures are maximum rent limits higher than are justified by implemented in an integrated effective manner. the open market distorts the rental market and I also envisage provision for monitoring imple- leads to a general rise in rent levels that disadvan- mentation of the strategies, evaluating outcomes, tages people on low incomes. adapting existing policies and programmes and, The ESRI study, to which the Deputy refers, as necessary, developing new ones to ensure fam- was carried out for the Combat Poverty Agency. ilies can continue to function effectively at a time It is based on data from the 2000 Living in Ireland of profound change. The strategy will be based survey and earlier surveys and was completed in and will build on the report of the Commission on 2003. One of its key findings is that problems with the Family and on the nation-wide consultation I the affordability of dwellings are most severe in undertook last year, which is still ongoing. Full the private rented sector and that they have the account will be taken of the findings of the greatest impact from a poverty perspective in that 375 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 376

[Mary Coughlan.] families with four or more children, people with sector. The study found that from 1987 to 1999- disabilities and the unemployed. 2000, the share of household expenditure The consistent poverty measure identifies the absorbed by rent among private tenants increased numbers who are experiencing income poverty 1.7 times from 12.5% to 21% while the share of and basic deprivation in terms of being consist- household expenditure taken up by mortgage ently deprived of goods and services regarded as payments remained more or less stable at essential for living in Ireland today. The level of approximately 10%. consistent poverty has fallen steadily from 15% Under the terms of the supplementary welfare in 1994 to 5.2% in 2001. We have set a target allowance scheme, which is administered on in the national anti-poverty strategy of reducing behalf of my Department by the health boards, consistent poverty to below 2% by 2007 and, ide- payment of a weekly or monthly supplement may ally, eliminating it altogether. be made in respect of rent to eligible people in The analysis also indicates that the at risk of the State whose means are insufficient to meet poverty rate, that is, the number of people with their needs and who have no other accommo- incomes below 60% of equivalised median dation available to them. The purpose of the sup- income, has increased overall from 19.8% in 1998 plementary welfare allowance scheme is to deal to 21.9% in 2001. It also indicates that the risk of with emergencies and short term needs that arise falling below that income threshold is highest for when a person suffers a change in circumstances, the elderly, lone parents, the larger families, the for example, when a tenant becomes unemployed ill or disabled, persons on home duties and the and can no longer afford to pay rent. unemployed. Rent supplements were never intended to meet There are a number of factors which contribute a person’s long-term housing needs as this is best to the relatively high at risk of poverty rate. Dur- met through housing by the local authorities. In ing periods of high economic growth, increases in recognition of the fact that the rent supplement household income can outstrip even substantial scheme had, in effect, become a long-term hous- increases in the incomes of households with rela- ing support for many people the Government set tively low earnings or on social welfare. This is up a working group to rationalise current what happened in Ireland in recent years. There arrangements for housing support. Our objective were particular circumstances in the period from is to ensure long-term housing needs are the mid-1990s when a combination of increased addressed through providing appropriate sol- female participation in the workforce, reduced utions with the involvement of the housing auth- unemployment generally, tax reform and, cru- orities rather than through the social welfare cially, high earnings growth caused very large system. increases in household income. These increases in An interdepartmental planning group was household incomes were substantially higher than established to draw up detailed proposals for the increases both in individual earnings and social implementation of revised arrangements. Arising welfare incomes over this period, despite virtually from the work of this group an action plan is unprecedented improvements in employment and being finalised and this will include criteria for social provision across the board in this period. determining which categories of rent supplement The policies pursued by the Government over recipient will be eligible to have their needs recent years with regard to income supports have addressed by the housing authorities, an imple- brought about significant improvements in the mentation timescale and other matters. I expect situation of people in receipt of such supports. In to put proposals to Government on this matter the period from 1998 to 2003, for example, the shortly. value of the lowest social welfare payments increased by more than 50% in nominal terms Question No. 107 answered with Question and by 19% in real terms. In the case of pen- No. 88. sioners, the increases awarded have been higher again with the old age contributory pension Social Welfare Code. increasing by almost 26% in real terms and the old age non-contributory pension increasing by 108. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Social 33% in real terms over the same period. With and Family Affairs the efforts she has made to regard to persons with disabilities, the weekly reduce the risk of poverty faced by lone parents, personal rate of disability allowance has persons with disabilities and the elderly, partic- increased by more than 57% or a real increase in ularly elderly women; and if she will make a state- excess of 26% since 1997. The 2004 budget con- ment on the matter. [17654/04] tinued this progression, as it included a social wel- Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary fare package of \630 million and the effect of this Coughlan): The most recent figures on poverty increase is that the total social welfare spend in levels in Ireland are based on the analysis by the 2004 will be almost double that of 1997. As a Economic and Social Research Institute of the result, my Department now has an annual budget results of the 2001 Living in Ireland survey. This of more than \11 billion to support those who analysis indicates that the highest risk of experi- are vulnerable, less well off or disadvantaged in encing consistent poverty is faced by lone parents, our society. 377 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 378

The Government’s determination to continue whole, except that the level of economic growth to improve the position of the most vulnerable in and the decline in unemployment were much our society is reflected in the revised national greater in Ireland than in most other EU coun- anti-poverty strategy, NAPS, and in the national tries and, consequently, the drop in the percent- action plan against poverty and social exclusion age of GDP accounted for by social protection which contain ambitious targets across a number expenditure was greater. The fact is that under of areas, including that of increasing the mini- this Government, there have been sustained and mum social welfare rate to \150 per week, in 2002 substantial increases in social protection expendi- terms, by 2007. The challenge now is to sustain ture. The EUROSTAT report states that the and build on the progress we have made to date increase in real terms expenditure on social pro- so that we can achieve our overarching objective tection in four EU countries, including Ireland at of building a more inclusive society. 4.7% per annum, over the period 1992 to 2001 was “particularly marked”. The EU average was Social Welfare Expenditure. 1.9%. The EUROSTAT figures show a 40% increase in the per capita expenditure on social 109. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social protection in Ireland in the period 1994 to 2001, and Family Affairs if her attention has been compared with an EU average of 13.9%. The drawn to recent statistics from EUROSTAT Government will continue to address the scope showing that social expenditure here is at 14.6% for further improvements in Ireland’s social pro- of gross domestic product, in contrast to the tection infrastructure, guided by the national anti- European average of 27.5%; and if she will make poverty strategy, while at the same time continu- a statement on the matter. [17702/04] ing to take the measures necessary to maintain Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary economic growth and competitiveness and Coughlan): EUROSTAT, the statistical office of thereby generate the resources for further social the EU, publishes comparisons of social protec- investment. tion expenditure as a percentage of GDP across the EU. This encompasses not only social welfare Family Support. expenditure but also expenditure in other areas 110. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for such as health care, social housing, employment Social and Family Affairs if she will clarify her support programmes and other social inclusion recent remarks at an EU conference on families programmes. and European social policy that the judicial sys- The latest such statistics were released on 23 tem here must undergo an attitudinal change if April 2004 and deal with developments up to and separated fathers are to be allowed play a more including 2001. No comparable figures are yet active role in the upbringing of their children; and available for 2002 or 2003. When examining such if she will make a statement on the matter. data it is important to remember that gross [17715/04] expenditure measures do not take account of social charges or taxes which may be levied on Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary benefits after they are paid, nor do they include Coughlan): The Irish Presidency conference in transfers made by means of tax concessions as question examined the theme of “Families, opposed to direct cash payments. The EURO- Change and Social Policy in Europe”. One of the STAT release draws attention to the fact the main changes affecting families is the growing European average masks major national differ- participation of women in the workforce. As a ences in the structure of social protection funding. result one of the key challenges to be addressed The level of expenditure is also significantly by families is how to reconcile work and family influenced by the age profile of the population. life. Ireland, with one of the youngest populations in One outcome is that many women are left to the EU, needs to spend less on pensions and carry the double burden of work and care of health care and care of the elderly than most home and children. It is still frequently expected other member states. In addition, social protec- that women will give precedence to caregiving, tion expenditure as a percentage of GDP is cru- while in the case of men it is still more acceptable cially dependent on the pace of economic growth to give precedence to the demands of employ- and the level of unemployment. Statistics show ment. One illustration of this is that 98% of those that at EU level, between 1993 and 1996, social receiving the one-parent family payment in 2002 protection expenditure relative to GDP stabilised were women. at a level below the peak of 28.8% in 1993. This These societal attitudes on the respective par- was due to renewed GDP growth and slower enting roles of men and women are, in my growth in social protection expenditure, partic- opinion, inevitably reflected in decisions given on ularly related to unemployment benefits. Over arrangements for custody and access to the chil- the period from 1996, the EU average dropped dren when parents decide to separate. Custody is from 28.4% to the level of 27.5% in 2001. generally awarded to the mother and the arrange- Ireland’s position mirrored that of the EU as a ments made for access and the way in which these 379 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 380

[Mary Coughlan.] remainder are pending decision or awaiting are enforced may not reflect the previous degree further information. of involvement of the father in the child’s In addition to these 150 cases involving habit- upbringing and the father’s desire for such ual residence, there have been 88 applications involvement. In some cases this may result in made for unemployment benefit from the ten for- fathers being denied reasonable access to their mer accession countries. Of these cases, 48 have children. been awarded, 39 are pending a decision, and one It is in the interests of all family members, has been disallowed. Unemployment benefit is fathers, mothers and children, that fathers assume not subject to the habitual residence condition. a more equal share in the care of their children I am arranging for a note detailing the relevant and that this is more effectively facilitated, payment schemes and salient features of the especially by employers. This should in time ease habitual residence condition to be forwarded to the double burden that many women have to the Deputy. bear, contribute to achieving a more effective bal- Social Welfare Code. ance of work and family life, and lead to more effective parenting. 112. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Social Changes of this kind are unlikely to occur over- and Family Affairs if, with higher than expected night and are for the longer term. In the mean- tax revenues in the year to date, she will review time, the difficulties some fathers are experienc- and rescind her cutback decisions of November ing in gaining access to their children, when they 2003. [17727/04] are living separately from the mother, must be Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary addressed and the current legal provisions gov- Coughlan): The 2004 Estimates for my Depart- erning this need to be examined. The mediation ment, announced last November, included a num- services administered by the Family Support ber of provisions to better target resources within Agency can also make a significant immediate the social welfare code. The measures in question contribution, which is one of the reasons I have produced savings which freed up resources sought and obtained funding to expand the ser- towards a substantial budget 2004 package of vice further, in the north-west and the midlands \630 million. This enabled the provision of this year. increases well ahead of inflation for all social wel- This issue will also be addressed in the strategy fare recipients of weekly payments as well as sig- on supports for families in preparation for issue nificant general improvements in social welfare before the end of the year. I was pleased in this provisions generally. context to be in a position to fund, as part of the My Department keeps all its schemes under celebrations of the tenth anniversary of the UN review so that the total social welfare budget is International Year of the Family, the first applied to the best effect in tackling disadvantage national fathers’ conference on 14 June, at which and to continue the Government’s policy of sig- a range of issues affecting unmarried and separ- nificant improvement in basic payments to social ated fathers were addressed. I look forward to welfare recipients, as well as other improvements receiving a report on the outcome of the con- to the social welfare code. The question as to ference, which will be fully taken into account in what level of increase in payments or other developing the strategy. improvements in existing provisions to be pro- vided in 2005 will be a matter for consideration Social Welfare Benefits. in the context of the next budget. 111. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social Social Welfare Benefits. and Family Affairs the number of citizens of new 113. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Social European Union member countries who have and Family Affairs the number of persons in sought assistance from her Department since 1 receipt of supplementary welfare allowance; and May 2004; and the number who have not quali- if she will make a statement on the matter. fied for such assistance. [17725/04] [17542/04] Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan): Since 1 May 2004, applicants for a Coughlan): The objective of the supplementary range of social assistance payments and child welfare allowance scheme, which is administered benefit must satisfy the condition of being habitu- on behalf of my Department by the health ally resident in this country to qualify for pay- boards, is to provide assistance to eligible people ment. In the period 1 May 2004 to 10 June 2004, in the State whose means are insufficient to meet a total of 150 claims involving persons from the their basic needs. ten former accession countries have been In addition to a basic weekly allowance, assist- received for decision in the central unit of my ance may be provided in the form of supplements Department. The habitual residence condition which may be paid in respect of needs such as has been satisfied in 61 of these cases and the rent, mortgage interest, diet or special heating 381 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 382 requirements or in any other case where it against her Department to the Equality Auth- appears to the board that the circumstances of ority. [17722/04] the case so warrant. A single payment to meet an Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary exceptional need as well as payments in urgent Coughlan): The 2003 annual report of the cases can also be made. There is no automatic Equality Authority records that there were 23 right of entitlement to an exceptional need or social welfare-related complaints made to the urgent payment. Such payments are made at the authority last year, an increase of 11 over the discretion of the health board taking into account 2002 figure. The authority has confirmed that this all of the circumstances of a case. figure of 23 is cumulative, that is, it includes com- The number of recipients of basic supplemen- plaints that were unresolved at the end of 2002 tary welfare allowance on 4 June 2004 was 29,893. and carried forward. Rent supplements are paid to eligible people in The Department works with the Equality the State whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation needs. Rent supplements Authority to ensure that the equality-diversity are subject to a means test and are normally cal- dimension continues to underpin and inform our culated to ensure that a person, after the payment policies and service delivery approach. Examples of rent, has an income equal to the rate of sup- of this include the development, under the advice plementary welfare allowance appropriate to his of the authority, of diversity awareness training or her family circumstances, less a minimum con- courses for staff, and participation in a working tribution of \13 which recipients are required to group on equality-diversity, which is chaired by pay from their own resources. The number of the Equality Authority. recipients of rent supplement is approximately In addition, last year, the office for social 58,000. inclusion in my Department collaborated with the Mortgage interest supplements are paid in authority in developing an equality proofing exer- respect of the interest portion of the mortgage cise on the national action plan against poverty repayments only. There are some 3,600 recipients and social exclusion. There has also been collab- of mortgage interest supplement. Recipients of oration between the Combat Poverty Agency and social welfare or health board payments who the authority. Last June I was pleased to launch have been prescribed a special diet as a result of their joint report, entitled Poverty and Inequality a specified medical condition may also qualify for — Applying an Equality Dimension to Poverty a diet supplement under the supplementary wel- Proofing, which highlights the link between the fare allowance scheme. There are some 13,000 promotion of equality and the anti-poverty pro- recipients of diet supplement. A heating sup- cess and offers a template that can be used by plement is a payment made to a person whose policy makers. means are insufficient to meet the cost of excep- I have given a commitment to a review of the tional heating needs. There are some 3,000 recipi- overall social welfare code in relation to the ents of heating supplements. requirements of the Equal Status Act 2000. The Health boards also have the power to award a Equality Authority has welcomed this review supplement in any other case where it appears to which will be done in consultation with all the board that the circumstances of the case so interested parties. The review will be based on a warrant. The number of recipients of other sup- framework to be agreed with the Department of plements is approximately 5,500. Under the SWA Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The scope and scheme, a health board may issue payments in terms of reference of the review and the neces- urgent cases and to meet an exceptional once-off sary arrangements for undertaking it are being need which a person could not reasonably be considered at present. expected to meet out of his or her weekly income. Clearly, any complaint made in relation to the These payments are known as exceptional and provision of social welfare services is a matter of urgent needs payments. There were some 4,500 concern to me. A fundamental principle of the such payments at the beginning of June 2004. Department’s customer service strategy is to Depending on his or her individual circum- ensure that every person is treated in an equitable stances, a person could receive two or more types and non-discriminatory way. In that regard, my of supplementary welfare allowance at any given Department has a well-established comments and time. For example, about 13,000 people who complaints procedure and it is open to any person receive a basic weekly allowance also receive a to exercise his or her right of appeal or redress rent supplement. In total more than 100,000 through all the available channels. Any com- people receive a supplementary welfare allow- plaints which are made are investigated and any ance payment in any given week. appropriate action which is required is taken.

Equality Issues. Family Support Services. 114. Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social 115. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will make a statement and Family Affairs if her attention has been on the increase in equality complaints made drawn to the closures of cre`che facilities in the 383 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 384

[Mr. Gogarty.] Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary aftermath of her decision to withdraw the cre`che Coughlan): The revised national anti-poverty supplement. [17726/04] strategy, Building an Inclusive Society, was launched by the Government in February 2002. Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary The key objectives of the strategy are to reduce, Coughlan): Subject to certain conditions, a per- and ideally eliminate, consistent poverty; build an son whose means are insufficient to meet his or inclusive society; and develop social capital, her basic needs and the needs of any adult or particularly for disadvantaged communities. The child dependant may be entitled to assistance strategy sets out a range of targets in the areas of under the terms of the supplementary welfare income adequacy, employment and unemploy- allowance scheme administered on behalf of my ment, education, health, and housing and accom- Department by the health boards. modation. In addition, specific targets have been The objective of the supplementary welfare established in respect of groups identified as allowance scheme is to meet immediate, short- being particularly vulnerable to poverty. term income maintenance needs. The scheme is In relation to the issue of income adequacy in not intended to be a long-term solution in any particular, the target set in the revised NAPS is individual case and it was never intended to be to achieve a rate of \150 per week in 2002 terms an ongoing source of funding for cre`ches. for the lowest social welfare rates by 2007. The My Department is not aware of the closure of target has been restated in the national action any cre`che as a result of the withdrawal of cre`che plan against poverty and social exclusion for 2003 supplement payments under the supplementary to 2005 and in Sustaining Progress. The Govern- welfare allowance scheme. Necessary child care ment remains committed to the achievement of services should be funded directly in a sustainable this target. and appropriate manner. In that regard, I point The issue of the level of increases introduced out that this approach has been successfully in any given year is one which must be assessed adopted in certain health boards. The boards in in the context of the budgetary process, having question, along with other agencies have put in regard to the level of resources available and the place appropriate, long term and sustainable competing demands on those resources. In this arrangements to meet the needs of the families regard, it should be noted that the increases pro- concerned without requiring them to apply for vided for in the budget from 2004 fully protect or supplementary welfare allowance. I want to see enhance in real terms the standard of living of all that approach taken up in the other health board social welfare recipients. regions so that we have sustainable child care arrangements in place throughout the State. Question No. 117 answered with Question I have held discussions with officials from the No. 106. Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Department of Health and Children, Question No. 118 answered with Question the Department of Education and Science as well No. 90. as health board representatives regarding a more co-ordinated approach to the provision of cre`che Social Policy. and pre-school supports. It is a matter for the 119. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Social agencies with responsibility for child care to and Family Affairs if her attention has been ensure that adequate arrangements are put in drawn to comments by a leading sociology pro- place to meet child care needs. As an interim fessor (details supplied) at a recent EU con- measure, cre`che supplements in payment prior to ference in Dublin; and if she will make a state- 1 January 2004 are being allowed to continue. ment on the matter. [17710/04] The changes introduced relating to cre`che sup- plements paid under the supplementary welfare Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary allowance scheme are necessary to refocus that Coughlan): The statement in question was made scheme on its original objective of providing in a wide-ranging paper presented at the inter- short-term income support. national conference organised and hosted by the In the meantime, health boards retain discre- Irish Presidency, with the support of the Euro- tion to provide assistance by way of once-off pean Commission, entitled Families, Change and exceptional needs payments in any case where a European Social Policy. One of the family-related board considers that the circumstances of the case changes identified in the paper concerns the so warrant. growing proportion of couples living together as partners, without entering into marriage and assuming the legal obligations to each other Social Welfare Code. which marriage involves. 116. Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social Generally up to the recent past, a couple, hav- and Family Affairs if she will implement the ing decided they wished to have a permanent NAPS commitment that the lowest social welfare relationship, would get married and soon after- payment for a single person will be benchmarked wards have children. Now, a growing proportion to 30% of gross average industrial earnings by of couples live together on a permanent basis but 2007. [17545/04] may postpone marriage indefinitely. Undertaking 385 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 386 the responsibilities and obligations of having chil- will report on his meeting with the President of dren becomes a separate decision and some Colombia with regard to the Colombia Three; if couples may decide to forgo taking on parenting his attention has been drawn to the wide interest responsibilities given the effect it may have on in this issue; the assurances these persons have their lives. This is the disjuncture between part- received; and if he will make a statement on the nership and parenting referred to in the paper. matter. [17202/04] Changes made in regard to gender equality and The Taoiseach: I raised the case of the three for safeguarding the rights of children and pro- men detained in Colombia with President Uribe moting good parenting themselves make, and will at our recent meeting. My concern was for the continue to make, a major contribution to indi- safety of the men and I raised with the President vidual well-being and quality of life generally. the possibility of allowing them home pending an They present, however, new challenges to be appeal. As of now, I have not had any official addressed in promoting social inclusion and communication from the Colombian authorities greater social cohesion. but I understand they have indicated that the Marriage is now seen by some as unduly Government there had no objection to the three restrictive on individual freedom. This may have men being allowed home pending an appeal, but been in part due to the emphasis in much public this was a matter for the judiciary there. debate in recent years on marital breakdown, separation and divorce. There has not been the Electronic Communications. same emphasis on the extent to which the obli- gations of marriage can safeguard basically 121. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach if all healthy and life-enhancing relationships, public services provided by his Department that especially through difficult periods, provide for are capable of electronic delivery are available individual security and family stability generally electronically through a single point of contact, as and provide a secure emotional environment for was promised in the joint programme; and if not, the upbringing of children. if he will make a statement or explanation in The State recognises the pressures that mar- respect of each service not yet so provided. riage and partnerships generally are under and [17555/04] one of the main tasks of the Family Support The Taoiseach: The e-Cabinet project is listed Agency, which I formally established last year, is as a priority for electronic delivery by my Depart- to address these. This includes supporting the ment. This initiative is somewhat different from provision of counselling to assist couples in over- most of the other services listed in that its users coming difficulties in their relationships. It also are the Cabinet and civil servants. Given the user includes a nationwide family mediation service to base and the necessity for confidentiality and help couples who decide to separate to come to security, it was never envisaged as a service for appropriate arrangements in a constructive, ami- delivery under the public services broker — sin- cable manner on living separately, especially in gle point of contact — but is being developed as relation to the custody and access to their a flagship e-Government initiative. The e-Cabinet children. project, however, is well advanced. Phase One of Parenting emerged as an issue of major con- the on-line system has now gone live and is avail- cern for many of those who attended the family able for use by all Departments since May of fora which I held last year. People are conscious this year. of the scale of the responsibility involved in rear- Pending the development of the public services ing children in ways that will enable them to suc- broker as the single point of contact for services, ceed in today’s world and of all the pitfalls to be the relevant information services pertaining to avoided. As a result many parents are seeking my department are available at the single on-line more guidance and support in regard to effective location for Irish Government information, parenting. There is also a need in this context to www.irlgov.ie, as well on my Department’s place emphasis on the joys as well as the prob- website. lems associated with parenting and provide much reassurance to parents as to their own innate Expenditure Reviews. capacities in this regard. There will be a role for the Family Support 122. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach if his Agency, the health boards and other relevant Department has achieved the target, set out in organisations in ensuring the provision of such the initiation of the expenditure review initiative parental support. These issues, together with in 1997, that all Government expenditure be sub- many others related to families and family life ject to a formal review under that initiative every identified at the conference and at the public con- three years; and if not, the areas of expenditure sultation fora, will be addressed in the strategy in respect of which the three yearly review has for supports to families, currently being prepared, not taken place. [17570/04] which I intend to have available before the end 123. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the of this year. areas of expenditure of his Department in respect of which an expenditure review under the expen- Colombia Three. diture review initiative has not yet been com- 120. Mr. O’Connor asked the Taoiseach if he pleted and published. [17585/04] 387 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 388

The Taoiseach: I propose to take Questions gramme allocations, the objectives of the expen- Nos. 122 and 123 together. diture review initiative would not in general be While the initial objective of the expenditure best served by selecting individual programmes review process was to review all programmes for review. over a three-year period under the initial expen- It was suggested that the Department’s role in diture review programme, 1997 to 2000, it was several cross-departmental issues which clearly fit agreed that three reviews would be undertaken the selection criteria would be an area in which by my Department. Two of these reviews on the my Department could have a more useful input. Information Society Commission and the The resulting work programme for my Depart- National Centre for Partnership were under- ment included one review of the National Econ- taken. However, a decision was taken, with the omic and Social Development Office. This review agreement of the Department of Finance, not to is due to be undertaken following enactment of proceed with the third proposed review which the NESDO legislation which is going through was in respect of the National Economic and the Houses of the Oireachtas. Social Council, NESC, and the National Econ- It is my understanding that a limited number omic and Social Forum, NESF, as this review was of cross-departmental reviews were selected to be overtaken by the Government decision to estab- undertaken on a pilot basis as part of the 2001- lish the National Economic and Social Develop- 04 expenditure review initiative, in view of the ment Office. complexity of these reviews and the need to for- In a review of the process undertaken at the mulate an effective approach to them. My end of the first three-year expenditure review Department did not have any close involvement programme, 1997 to 2000, and in light of the find- in the areas to which these reviews related but ings of a value for money study on the expendi- would expect to be involved in similar reviews in ture review initiative undertaken by the Office of the future. the Comptroller and Auditor General, it was Departmental Appointments. accepted that the target of covering all pro- gramme areas in a three-year period was overly 124. Mr. Ring asked the Taoiseach the ambitious and a more focused approach to the appointments that have been made to State boards and bodies within his Department from 1 selection of reviews was agreed by the January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons Government. appointed; and the persons they are replacing. A new work programme for the period 2001 to [17792/04] 2004 was agreed between this Department and the Department of Finance based on the follow- The Taoiseach: The bodies under the aegis of ing new criteria for the selection of reviews: pro- my Department are: grammes reflecting Government priorities or strategic review areas; programmes involving sig- No. nificant levels of expenditure; programmes where expenditure has been growing unusually quickly; 1 The Information Society Commission programmes where the external environment has 2 The National Statistics Board changed substantially since the programme was 3 The Law Reform Commission introduced; and programmes whose objectives 4 The National Economic and Social Forum (NESF) are proving particularly difficult to achieve. 5 The National Economic and Social Council (NESC) Following a review of the Department’s pro- 6 The National Centre for Partnership and grammes for 2002 and subsequent years, it was Performance (NCPP) agreed with the Department of Finance that, due to the relatively small size of the Department’s The appointments made to these bodies since Vote and the nature and size of individual pro- January 2003 are detailed below:

(i) National Statistics Board. Appointments made to the National Statistics Board in February 2004.

Name Organisation Person Replaced

Mr. Frank Cunneen Health and Safety Authority Steve Couldwell (in 1999) Mr. Ciaran Dolan ICMSA Appointed on commencement of Statistics Act 1993 Ms Paula Carey ICTU Donal Nevin (in 1997) Ms Mary Doyle Department of the Taoiseach Dermot McCarthy (in 2001) Professor Brendan Walsh University College Dublin Prof. Frances Ruane (in 2004) Dr. Pat O’Hara Western Development Commission Helen Nic Fhlannchadha (in 2004) Mr. Derek Moran Department of Finance Cathal O’Loughlin (in 2003)

(ii) National Economic and Social Forum. The in the Royal Hospital Kilmainham. A full list of NESF was reconstituted in early 2004 and held its membership for 2004 which identifies replace- inaugural meeting on Wednesday, 26 May 2004 ments is below. Of the 62 NESF members, 50 are 389 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 390 appointed by nominating bodies, five members appointed by the Government. The Government are ex-officio and five independent members are also appoints the chair and deputy chair.

Name Strand Person Replaced

Maureen Gaffney Independent Chairperson Member in 1998 also Mary Doyle Deputy Chairperson Dermot McCarthy Paschal Mooney (i) Oireachtas Member in 1998 also Michael Woods Gerry Reynolds John Curran Paul McGrath Mary O’Rourke Bill Timmins Brendan Daly Therese Ridge Geraldine Feeney Derek McDowell Pat Carey Joe Costello Paul Coghlan Michael Lowry Damien English Noel Ahern Paul Kehoe Sean Haughey Joan Burton Beverly Cooper-Flynn Willie Penrose Michael Kitt Kate Walsh Helen Keogh Fergal Quinn Margaret Cox Jerry Cowley Mary Jackman Jackie Harrison (ii) Employer/Trade Union Brian Geoghegan Heidi Lougheed Employer/Business Aileen O’Donoghue Patricia Callan Organisations Lilian O’Carroll Kevin Gilna Mirette Corboy Carmel Mulroy Alison Begas Mary McGreal (ii) Employer/ Trade Union Eileen Doyle Michael Doody Farming John Dillon Mary Johnson Mary Coleman Carmel Brennan Pat O’Rourke Anne Murray Eva Coyle Eamon Devoy (ii) Employer/ Trade Union Member in 1998 also Blair Horan Trade Unions Member in 1998 also Manus O’Riordan Member in 1998 also Jerry Shanahan John Tierney Paula Carey Rosaleen Glackin Frances Byrne (iii) Community and Voluntary Susan McNaughton Joanna McMinn Grainne Healy June Tinsley Ursula Barry Patricia Short Joan Condon Sr. Brigid Reynolds Mary Murphy John Mark McCafferty Mike Allen Brid O’Brien Chris McInerney Sharon Keane Janice Ransom Malcolm Byrne Joe Gallagher Raymond Dooley Gearo´ id O´ Maolmhichı´l Robin Webster Paddy Donegan Aisling Walsh Roger Acton Sean Gallagher Jeanne Meldon Seamus Boland Sean Healy Fergus O’Ferrall Liam O’Dwyer Secretaries General of the (iv) Central Government, Local Government and Secretaries General of the Departments of Finance; Independents Central Government Departments of Finance; Enterprise, Trade and Employment; Enterprise, Trade and Employment; Social and Family Affairs; Social Community and Family Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs; Tourism, Sport and Affairs; Environment, Heritage and Recreation; Environment and Local Local Government Government. 391 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 392

Name Strand Person Replaced

Constance Hanniffy (iv) Central Government, Local Government and Member in 1998 Donal O’Donoghue Independents Local Government also Member in 1998 John Egan also Tom Kelleher Patsy Treanor Enda Nolan Patricia McCarthy Tadgh Curtis Dr. Mary P. Corcoran (iv) Central Government, Local Government and Prof Gearo´ id O´ Tuathaigh Ca´it Keane Independents Independents Marian Vickers Dr. Colm Harmon Helen Johnston Dr. Brian Nolan Niall Fitzduff Paul Tansey Noreen Kearney

(iii) National Economic and Social Council. National Economic and Social Council in Sep- The following appointments were made to the tember 2003.

Organisation

Mr. Jack O’Connor SIPTU Ms Aileen O’Donoghue IBEC Ms Deirdre Garvey The Wheel Mr. John Mark McCafferty St. Vincent de Paul Mr. John Dolan Disability Federation of Ireland Mr. Niall Callan Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Mr. Colin Hunt Goodbody Stockbrokers Ms Brigid Laffan UCD Ms Eithne McLaughlin Queens University Mr. Peter Bacon Economic Consultant Mr. John Fitzgerald ESRI

The following were replaced on the council.

Organisation

Mr. Des Gerarghty SIPTU Jim Walsh NUI Maynooth Ms Geraldine McAteer NI Interests Mr. John Fitzgerald Dublin City Manager Mr. David Finn Ta´naiste nominee Mr. Turlough O’Sullivan IBEC Ms Siobhan O’Donoghue Community Workers Co-operative Ms Orla O’Connor NWCI Mr. Eric Conroy INOU

(iv) National Centre for Partnership and Performance. Appointments made to the National Centre for Partnership and Performance were:

Organisation

Mr. Fergus Whelan Irish Congress of Trade Unions October 2003 — replaced Mr. Tom Wall as ICTU nominee to the council Mr. Morgan Nolan Construction Industry Federation January 2004 — replaced Mr. Terry McEvoy as CIF nominee to the council

Industrial Property. Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney): The management 125. Mr. Ring asked the Ta´naiste and Minister of IDA Ireland’s industrial property portfolio, for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in including decisions regarding location and size of regard to the factory of a company (details land owned by IDA Ireland, are day-to-day oper- supplied) built in Crossmolina, County Mayo, the ational matters for the agency and not matters in IDA pays rent or has the lease on the property; which I have a function. if so, the length of time this has been the case; IDA Ireland has informed me that it has no and the amount being paid. [17198/04] property interests in Crossmolina, County Mayo. 393 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 394

The factory to which the Deputy refers was con- received refunds at this stage. The ECC has kept structed by the local community. While an exist- the ODCA and the UK Office of Fair Trading ing IDA-supported company had planned to use informed of its concerns and developments at all the facility to accommodate an expansion of its times. operations, the company has decided to put its The ECC advises that if an amicable solution plans on hold pending market developments. Any is not achieved, the consumer’s rights cannot be agreement the company may have with the vindicated in the small claims court in Ireland as owners of the factory, including any rent the com- the company is based in the UK. Under the terms pany may be paying to reserve the factory for its of the Rome Convention, the consumer can sue use, would be a matter between the parties the company from Ireland but the practical concerned. reality is that this would mean incurring costs far in excess of the amount lost. On an individual Consumer Rights. basis, the consumer could take a case to the small 126. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Ta´naiste and claims court in the UK, but this would involve the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment expense of travel and accommodation to attend if she will examine the case of a person (details that court. supplied) in Dublin 24; if this person’s rights can The possibility of the ODCA taking action be vindicated here; and if she will make a state- under the EU injunctions directive, 98/27/EC, to ment on the matter. [17394/04] protect consumer interests in relation to future activities by holiday promotion firms has also Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade been raised by the ECC and I have requested the and Employment (Ms Harney): My Department ODCA to explore this further. has been in contact with both the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs, which is the inde- Organisation of Working Time Act. pendent statutory office responsible for providing advice and information to consumers and enforc- 127. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Ta´naiste and ing a wide range of consumer protection laws, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the European Consumer Centre, Dublin, if employees can work seven days per week; the ECC, which is an independent company provid- provisions there are in relation to such working ing free information and advice on consumer arrangements (details supplied); and if she will rights in the EU and co-funded by the European make a statement on the matter. [17395/04] Commission and the Office of the Director of Minister of State at the Department of Consumer Affairs, on this matter and both bodies Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Fahey): had corresponded with the person concerned. For each day an employee is entitled to 11 con- The ODCA has responsibility for enforcing the secutive hours off under the Organisation of Package Holiday and Travel Trade Act 1995. Working Time Act 1997. In a period of seven However, the Act governs travel agents-organ- days, an employee is entitled to a total of 35 con- isers who sell package travel within Ireland and secutive hours off, that is, 24 hours plus the 11 who have an office within the State. I am hours for the preceding day. When an employee informed by the ODCA that the company con- works 14 days but did not receive the 24 hour rest cerned has no registered office in Ireland and that period after seven days, he or she is entitled to a all its business is conducted in and from the UK. total of 59 consecutive hours off, that is, two days The ODCA further advises that the possibility of — 48 hours — plus 11 hours for the previous day. reviewing this contract under the Unfair Terms If, after working 14 days an employee does not in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1995 is also receive 59 consecutive hours off, he or she is thwarted by the location of the relevant com- entitled to two separate rest periods of 35 con- pany’s offices. Under the circumstances, the secutive hours each. ODCA has indicated that there is little it can do Certain transport employees are not entitled to about complaints like these other than to advise the above rest periods. Employees who work in consumers to purchase their holidays from tour sectors in which the rate of production or pro- operators who are licensed and bonded in this vision of services will vary significantly from time country by the Commission for Aviation Regu- to time and employees who are directly involved lation. In fact, this advice is number one on the in ensuring continuity of production or continuity ODCA’s top tips for an enjoyable holiday which in the provision of services are also exempt from can be found on that office’s website at the above rest periods. These employees, www.ocdca.ie. however, are entitled to compensatory rest, that The European Consumer Centre, ECC, Dublin is, any hours of rest forgone must be made up to has advised that it has dealt with 70 cases, and them by their employer. many more information requests, to date regard- ing complaints against the company concerned in Decentralisation Programme. the context of its work in assisting consumers with cross-border disputes. The ECC has been in con- 128. Mr. Sargent asked the Ta´naiste and Mini- stant contact with the company to achieve an ami- ster for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the cable solution for Irish consumers and has been Government’s proposal to reduce significantly informed by its managing director that his com- the operation of Shannon Development does not pany was withdrawing from the Irish market and run contrary to the stated policy of encouraging that refunds would be issued to Irish complain- decentralisation; the reason it is being contem- ants. The ECC is not aware of consumers having plated when the company has an excellent record 395 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 396

[Mr. Sargent .] are involved in Enterprise Ireland functions; and in encouraging tourism and in job creation and is the number involved in other work. [17459/04] self-funded from its own resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17458/04] Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney): I understand Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade from Shannon Development that a total of 185.5 and Employment (Ms Harney): Changes being staff — expressed in terms of full-time equiv- contemplated with regard to the role of Shannon alents — are employed by the agency. These staff Development are consistent with and arise pri- are employed on a range of duties relating to marily as a result of the Government decision to industrial development, tourism, property man- decentralise the headquarters of Enterprise agement and general administration functions. Ireland, involving 300 of that agency’s Dublin- On functions carried out on a delegated auth- based staff, to Shannon. At present, Shannon ority basis for Enterprise Ireland activities, the Development performs a range of functions on a number of staff ranges between 50 and 100 delegated authority basis for Enterprise Ireland depending on the assumptions made in relation and it has been decided, in light of decentralis- to the allocation of the support and administrat- ation, that these functions should revert to ive staff associated with those delegated Enterprise Ireland. This is an entirely practical functions. development as it would make little sense to have two agencies in the same location performing the Apprenticeship Payment Rates. same functions. The decision, which is fully sup- ported by the board of Shannon Development, 130. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Ta´naiste and will result in the transfer of the Shannon Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Development staff engaged on these functions to the rates of payment for apprentices in each year Enterprise Ireland. of their apprenticeship; if these rates are enforce- Second, it has been agreed that the manage- able by inspectors in her Department in respect ment of Shannon town should be transferred of the cabinet makers trade; and if she will make from Shannon Development and vested in Clare a statement on the matter. [17467/04] County Council. Again, this is a decision that has Minister of State at the Department of been made on practical grounds and both Shan- Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Fahey): non Development and Clare County Council are Apprenticeship is the recognised means by which in agreement. persons are trained to become craftspersons in The proposal by the Minister for Transport, Ireland. The main craft trades have been desig- which is again supported by the board of Shannon ´ Development, to establish an independent Shan- nated by FAS and come within the scope of the statutory apprenticeship system. Apprenticeship non Airport authority is also important in this ´ context. Without an independent and viable in Ireland is organised by FAS in co-operation Shannon Airport, the task of guaranteeing the with the Department of Education and Science, entire region’s continued attractiveness as a tour- employers and unions. There are about 23,000 ist destination and as a location for investment registered apprentices in the country. would be made considerably more difficult. In Cabinet makers come under the construction that regard, one of the options under consider- umbrella. The current apprenticeship rates for ation is to transfer the assets of the Shannon Free cabinet makers are set out below. Zone to the new airport authority. While no decision has been taken on this issue, the transfer Construction Training Allowances Effective 1 January 2004 of the assets would mean no change to either the status of the zone or its attractiveness as an Year Rate per week investment location. \ In the light of these changed circumstances, I met the chairman, some members of the board of Phase 2 203.58 Shannon Development and the chief executive of Phase 4 304.98 the company on several occasions to explain and Phase 6 457.86 expand on matters under consideration. At the 4th Year 549.12 meetings, I also asked the board to bring forward detailed proposals in regard to the role that Shan- non Development can play in the future develop- ment of the region and this discussion is ongoing. Construction Training Allowances Effective 1 July 2004 I am committed to the future of Shannon and the mid-west region as a whole. My concern is to Year Rate per week ensure that we put in place the most sensible and \ efficient structures and manage the region’s most valuable and strategic assets so as to optimise Phase 2 207.48 their benefit for the entire region. Phase 4 311.22 Phase 6 466.83 Departmental Agencies. 4th Year 560.04 129. Mr. Sargent asked the Ta´naiste and Mini- ster for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of staff in Shannon Development who Three employment regulation orders under the Industrial Relations Acts 1946 to 2004 also set 397 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 398 rates of payment for apprentices. Details are set out below. Hairdressing (ERO) (for the areas known, until 1 January 1994, The Industrial Relations Acts 1946 to 2004 also as the County and County Borough of Dublin, the Borough of Du´ n Laoghaire and the Urban District of Bray) provide recognition for another form of agree- ment known as registered employment agree- Apprentices Until From ments. In this instance, an agreement is nego- 31 January 1 February tiated by the two sides in an industry or 2004 2004 enterprise and is presented to the Labour Court Per week Per week for registration. There are 45 registered employ- \\ ment agreements, REAs, on the register main- tained by the Labour Court. Two of those REAs Under Age 18 176.89 191.10 that are actively enforced by the inspectorate Age 18 and Over have set rates of payment for apprentices and During 1st year of 189.53 204.75 details are contained in the tables set out below. Apprenticeship At present, there is no employment regulation During 2nd year of 202.16 218.40 order or registered employment agreement that Apprenticeship specifically covers cabinet makers. There are During 3rd year of 227.43 245.70 trainee rates contained in the National Minimum Apprenticeship Wage Act 2000. Trainee rates are applicable to During 4th year 252.70 273.00 trainees, aged 18 or over, in structured training. The trainee rates are as follows: trainee in the \ first third of training period over age 18 is 5.25 Construction Industry (REA) per hour; trainee in the second third of training \ period over age 18 is 5.60 per hour; and trainee Construction Apprentices Rate per Week in the final third of training period over age 18 is % of Craft Rate \6.30 per hour. The National Minimum Wage Act 2000 applies \ a strict definition of trainee and structured train- 1st year 33%˙ 212.36 ing. For example, for the above trainee rates to apply, at least 10% of the employee’s training 2nd year 50% 318.54 must occur outside day-to-day operational duties, 3rd year 75% 477.80 there must be an assessment and certification 4th year 90% 573.36 procedure or written confirmation of the employee’s completion of the course identifying the level of attainment of the employee against Electrical Contracting Industry (REA) the objectives of the structured training, and the training must be related to improvement of Apprentice Rates Rate per Hour work performance. The labour inspectorate of my Department has \ responsibility for the enforcement of employment 1st Year 5.20 rights arising from a range of employment rights legislation. The National Minimum Wage Act 2nd Year 7.80 2000 falls within that remit and, accordingly, 3rd Year 11.27 enforcement of its provisions is an aspect of a lab- 4th Year 13.87 our inspector’s work. Brush and Broom (ERO) As this JLC has not made proposals to the Lab- Electronic Communications. our Court since 1994, no ERO has been made 131. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Ta´naiste and since then and the rates of pay in the ERO for Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the brush and broom sector are out of date. In the absence of an updated ERO, the terms of the if all public services provided by her Department National Minimum Wage Act 2000 substitute for that are capable of electronic delivery are avail- the minimum pay rates in the ERO. able electronically through a single point of con- tact, as was promised in the joint programme; and Hairdressing (ERO) (Cork County Borough) if not, if she will make a statement or explanation in respect of each service not yet so provided. Apprentices From 10 February [17556/04] 2004 Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade \ and Employment (Ms Harney): The electronic Under Age 18 delivery of services through a single point of con- Age 18 and Over 191.10 tact is being progressed through the framework of During 1st year of apprenticeship 204.75 the public services broker and the Reach agency, which reports to my colleague, the Minister for During 2nd year of apprenticeship 218.40 Social and Family Affairs. During 3rd year of apprenticeship 245.70 In advance of completion of the public service During 4th year of apprenticeship 273.00 broker, my Department, as per the joint pro- gramme, has embarked on an ambitious e- 399 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 400

[Ms Harney.] ive on IDA Ireland’s property portfolio and Government agenda aimed at ensuring that the Enterprise Ireland’s overseas office network are public have electronic access to services. nearing completion. Two other expenditure These services include access to the Patents reviews are under way, one relating to supports Office registers, databases and official journals. for the long-term unemployed, which is a cross- The Companies Registration Office provides e- departmental review, and a review of science and forms for registering a business and filing returns, technology spending. All of these programmes on-line database searching and calculation of late represent approximately 60% of the Depart- filing penalties. An on-line redundancy calculator ment’s 2004 voted programme expenditure plus is also available and enables the calculation of the national training fund. The remaining statutory redundancy entitlements for an elements of my Department’s voted programme employee. expenditure has not yet been reviewed under the The BASIS website, www.basis.ie, which was initiative. It is likely that the Department will developed by my Department is a one-stop-shop shortly decide on the likely programmes to be for all public sector information on services that reviewed under the next tranche of expenditure are relevant to the business community. This reviews. information is presented in an integrated way, In addition to expenditure reviews under the based around the everyday actions of a business expenditure review initiative, my Department is like employing staff, funding and expanding very much involved in programme evaluations one’s business. carried out under the national development plan- New e-services that are under development in community support structure process, in conjunc- my Department include the on-line payment of tion with the NDP central evaluation unit. Fur- trademark, patent and industrial design renewal thermore, the science and technology budget fees; an electronic application and payment sys- includes a line for evaluations-reviews and has a tem for work permits; the on-line payment of cer- culture of ongoing evaluation. Other reviews are tain Companies Registration Office fees; and a carried out on an ongoing basis by my Depart- system for on-line submission of redundancy ment’s agencies, such as FA´ S, Forfa´s etc. claims for workers and applications for redun- The initial target of the expenditure review dancy rebates for employers. initiative, ERI, was to review all expenditure pro- To ensure the continued development of on- grammes over a three year period. However, a line services a review of the Department’s e-strat- review of the process by the Department of Fin- egy is scheduled to be carried out in the last quar- ance, expenditure review central steering com- ter of this year. Links to all existing and new ser- mittee, ERCSC, in 2000-01 found that this target vices will be available through the single point of had been overly ambitious and that a more contact, reachservices.ie, as and when the public focused approach to the selection of review topics service broker is fully implemented. was required. This view was supported by a Comptroller and Auditor General value for Expenditure Reviews. money study of the ERI in 2001 which proposed 132. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Ta´naiste and that a more realistic target should be set that took Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment into account the level of evaluative capacity in if her Department has achieved the target, set out Departments generally. in the initiation of the expenditure review initiat- In June 2001, the Government decided, inter ive in 1997, that all Government expenditure be alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- subject to a formal review under that initiative ual Departments-offices should compile and every three years; and if not, the areas of expen- agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- diture in respect of which the three yearly review ific selection criteria, that is, that programmes has not taken place. [17571/04] selected for review should reflect Government priorities or strategic result areas, involve signifi- 133. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Ta´naiste and cant levels of expenditure etc. Subsequently, in Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment May 2002, the Government approved a schedule the areas of expenditure of her Department in of expenditure review topics proposed for the respect of which an expenditure review under the first year of the next three-year planning horizon, expenditure review initiative has not yet been 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed for 2003 completed and published. [17586/04] and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC asked Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade Departments-offices to update their expenditure and Employment (Ms Harney): I propose to take review plans, again in consultation with the Questions Nos. 132 and 133 together. Department of Finance. The committee empha- Expenditure reviews under the expenditure sised the Government’s selection criteria and review initiative have been undertaken on the fol- advised that Departments-offices should select a lowing five areas: community employment; IDA small number of programmes-areas involving 1994-1997; FA´ S’s standards-based apprenticeship major policy issues or significant levels of expen- programme; Forfa´s; and FA´ S’s traineeship and diture. On foot of this process, revised expendi- specific skills training programmes. Additionally, ture review plans were drawn up by Depart- two further expenditure reviews under the initiat- ments-offices. 401 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 402

Price Controls. appointed; and the persons they are replacing. [17793/04] 134. Mr. Haughey asked the Ta´naiste and Mini- ster for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade action will be taken by her to reduce the price of and Employment (Ms Harney): The information soft drinks sold in pubs in order to reduce alcohol sought is as follows: consumption; and if she will make a statement on Forfa´s the matter. [17741/04] Dr. Don Thornhill was appointed on 18 June Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade 2003, replacing Professor Yvonne Scannell. Mr. and Employment (Ms Harney): The price Frank Ryan was appointed on 12 November charged for any product or service is a matter for 2003, replacing Mr. Dan Flinter. Dr. William the retailer and I do not propose to re-introduce Harris’s appointment, effective from 11 Sep- price control for any product or service. tember 2003, was a new appointment. Messrs. The best way to ensure that the consumer gets Paul Haran and Roddy Molloy were the best price and service for a particular product reappointed on 1 January 2004. is through competition. Additionally, in the case IDA Ireland of soft drinks, there is statutory information avail- Ms Loretta Brennan-Glucksman was able to enable the consumer to decide whether to appointed on 5 March 2003, replacing Mr. Gary purchase the product, in the form of the Retail Duffy. Mr. Brian Whitney was appointed on 19 Price (Beverages in Licensed Premises) Display September 2003, replacing Mr. Ronald Long. Order 1999, SI 263 of 1999, which obliges publi- Mr. Paul MacKay was appointed on 15 January cans to display the price of alcoholic and soft 2004, replacing Mr. Frank McCabe. Two board drinks just outside or immediately inside their members whose term had expired were re- premises. appointed: Mr. Kieran Corrigan on 5 March 2003 and Mr. Nial Ring on 15 January 2004. Decentralisation Programme. Enterprise Ireland 135. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Ta´naiste and Mr. Pat Molloy was re-appointed as chair- Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment man on 24 July 2003. Mr. Kieran McGowan the reason the decentralisation implementation and Ms. Veronica Perdisatt were re-appointed plan for her Department was not completed on 28 July 2003. within the time limit set; and if the preparation of this report has involved the diversion of staff Crafts Council of Ireland resources from other work. [17768/04] Ms Mary Ann O’Brien was appointed chairperson on 9 April 2003, replacing Dr. Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade Frances Ruane. Mr. Martin Walsh was re- and Employment (Ms Harney): Officials of my appointed to the board as chairman on 17 June Department recently finalised a comprehensive 2003, replacing Ms Mary Ann O’Brien. Ms implementation plan on the decentralisation of Cathy Honan was re-appointed to the board on those sections-offices of the Department which 17 June 2003. Mr. Giles O’Neill was re- have been approved by me for relocation to Car- appointed to the board on 14 May 2004. low. The document was substantially completed within the time limit as laid down by the decen- Science Foundation Ireland tralisation implementation group. However, my The following were appointed to the board Department was concerned to ensure that the of Science Foundation Ireland on 25 July 2003: information provided in the plan would be of the Dr. Pat Fottrell, Mr. Frank McCabe, Dr. Don highest quality possible. Therefore, it was decided Thornhill, Mr. Erich Bloch, Dr. Kristian John- to spend some extra days finalising the plan to son, Mr. John Travers, Dr. Jane Grimson, Dr. ensure that a high standard document was Jim Mountjoy, Dr. Martina Newell McLough- presented to the decentralisation implementation lin, Mr. Ned Costello, Dr. William C. Harris, group. I am satisfied that the additional time Dr. Anita Jones. Dr. Jacqueline Hunter was taken had no material impact other than improv- appointed on 13 October 2003 as a replacement ing the quality of the report submitted. The prep- to Dr. Anita Jones who resigned on 28 August 2003. aration of the plan was treated as a priority by my Department and necessitated input from staff National Competitiveness Council in all of the areas of the Department selected Messrs. John Fingleton, Peter McLoone, for decentralisation. Willy Slattery, Seamus O’Morain and Brendan Butler were appointed on 1 June 2003. Mr. Departmental Appointments. John Travers, Mr. Rory Ardagh and Ms Jane Williams were re-appointed on 1 June 2003. Ms 136. Mr. Ring asked the Ta´naiste and Minister Williams retired on 9 January 2004. for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the appointments that have been made to State FA´ S and FA´ S International boards and bodies within her Department from 1 In March 2004, Mr. Jim O’Brien resigned as January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons the representative of the Minister for Finance 403 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 404

[Ms Harney.] policy review groups with a public consultative on the board of FA´ S and was replaced by Mr process under way within her Department; and if Eamon Kearns. she will make a statement on the matter. [17875/04] Shannon Free Airport Development Company Ta´naiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade Mr. Brian O’Connell was re-appointed to the and Employment (Ms Harney): The policy review board on 25 April 2003. Mr John Brassil was groups with a public consultative process which appointed on 1 April 2004 to fill the vacancy are under way within my Department are as created by the retirement of Ms Frieda follows: Keane-Carmody. 1. Enterprise Strategy Group National Standards Authority of Ireland On 28 July 2003 I announced the formation (NSAI) of an independent enterprise strategy group to Mr. Conor O’Mahony, now resigned, was examine options that I and my Government appointed on 25 February 2003, replacing Mr. colleagues might consider in developing Martin Lynch. Ms Rose Hynes, Mr. Des medium-term enterprise polices. On 1 August O’Loughlin, Mr. Niall Fitzsimons and Mr. 2003, I announced the membership of that Patrick Rigney, now resigned, were appointed group under the chairmanship of Mr. Eoin on 21 May 2003, replacing Ms June Finnegan, O’Driscoll. As part of its work, the group’s Mr. Vincent Delaney, Mr. Patrick Geraghty public consultation process has already been and Ms Jean Cahill, respectively. Mr. Pa´raig completed. Hennessy was appointed on 4 September 2003, 2. Company Law Review Group replacing Mr. Conor O’Mahony. Mr. Edmond The company law review group is a standing Stack was appointed on 19 November 2003, statutory advisory body on the reform and replacing Mr. Patrick Rigney. Mr. John N. modernisation of Irish company law. The Hewitt was appointed on 15 April 2004, replac- review group reports to the Minister for ing Dr. Catherine Caulfield. Mr. Dan Tierney Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The and Ms Ann Riordan were re-appointed on 15 review group was set up in February 2000 on April 2004. foot of Government decision. The group oper- Labour Court ated on an administrative basis until it was Mr. Jimmy Somers was re-appointed a mem- accorded a statutory advisory status by the ber of the court on 1 February 2003. Mr. Rob- Company Law Enforcement Act 2001. Part 7 ert Grier was appointed as a member on 1 of that Act sets out the role and the advisory March 2003, replacing Mr. Patrick Pierce. Mr. responsibilities of the review group and the Patrick Pierce was re-appointed as a member basis on which its members are appointed. on 1 January 2003, 1 February 2003, 1 April The first report of the review group was the 2003 and 2 September 2003. Mr. John Doherty culmination of its work programme for 2000 to was appointed as a member on 27 July 2003, 2001 and was published on 28 February 2002. replacing Mr. Vincent Keogh. Mr. Noel O’Neill The report mapped out a strategy for the was re-appointed as a member on 28 July 2003. restructuring, consolidation, simplification and Mr. Kevin Duffy was appointed as chairman on modernisation of company law in Ireland. The 22 December 2003, replacing Mr. Finbarr general scheme of the Bill to give effect to the Flood. Mr. Finbarr Flood was appointed as proposals for this reform of company law is deputy chairman on 01 February 2004, replac- now being drafted. A second report of the ing Mr. Kevin Duffy. Mr. Finbarr Flood was re- review group was published in May 2004. That appointed on 1 April 2004. Mr. Raymond report elaborates on implementation of the McGee was appointed as deputy chairman on recommendations in the first report as well as 1 June 2004, replacing Mr. Finbarr Flood. recommending changes in a number of sectoral areas such as share capital and windings up. Labour Relations Commission The recommendations in the second report will A new board was appointed on 1 April 2003 be factored into the general scheme of the Bill. as follows: Mr. Maurice Cashell was appointed For the purposes of public consultation, as as chairperson, Ms Josephine Feehily, Ms each component part of the general scheme of Breege O’Donoghue and Messrs. Peter Bunt- the Bill is drawn up, it is placed on the website ing, Liam Downey, Peter McLoone, and Bren- of the Company Law Review Group, dan McGinty were appointed as members. www.clrg.org, for consideration and comment Competition Authority by interested parties. Comments received will Mr. Edward Henneberry was appointed as a inform the proposals in the general scheme of member on 14 July 2003. the Bill to be brought to Government for approval. Departmental Review Groups. 3. Consumer Strategy Group 137. Mr. Howlin asked the Ta´naiste and Mini- In March 2004 I established the consumer ster for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the strategy group, under chairperson Ann Fitzger- name and number and commencement date of ald, chief executive of the Irish Association of 405 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 406

Investment Managers. The group has been the sizes and shapes of the red safety areas at asked to advise and make recommendations Casement Aerodrome, and if he will make a for the development of a national consumer statement on the matter. [17369/04] policy strategy. Forfa´s provides the group’s sec- retariat. Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 to 142, inclusive, 4. Review of the Employment Agency Act together. 1971 As I explained in my reply to Questions Nos. My Department published a discussion paper 204 to 206, inclusive, on 27 April 2004, red safety on the review of the Employment Agency Act areas were first adopted at Casement Aerodrome 1971 in May 2004 and has requested views on following a review in 1992 by Aer Rianta, on this discussion paper from interested individ- behalf of the Department of Defence, of policy uals and organisations by 9 July 2004. in relation to safety zones at the aerodrome. With regard to the rationale therefor, International Road Network. Civil Aviation Organisation standards and recom- 138. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence mendations in relation to obstacle limitation sur- the position regarding a road (details supplied) in faces for airports as well as considerations in County Kildare; when his Department will hand regard to public safety in the vicinity of the aero- over this road to the local authority as stated in drome were taken into account in determining the reply to a previous parliamentary question; the size and shape of the red safety areas at Case- and if meetings have taken place with the local ment Aerodrome. The areas are essentially two- authority in relation to the matter. [17203/04] dimensional surfaces on the ground originating 60 metres beyond the runway thresholds, have a Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): My width of 300 metres and diverge at a rate of 15% Department has written to Kildare County Coun- at each side to a width of 700 metres and have an cil requesting that the road in question be taken overall length of 1,370 metres in the case of each in charge by the council and its reply is cur- runway. The three-dimensional areas are the run- rently awaited. way approach surfaces which extend outwards from the same start point as the red safety areas Airport Safety Zones. and the bases of which rise above the ground at 139. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for a rate of 1:50 for the first 3,000 metres and then Defence , further to Question No. 206 of 27 April at a rate of 1:40 for 3,600 metres to a maximum 2004, if the red safety areas at Casement Aero- height of 150 metres above the start point to a drome, Baldonnel are two-dimensional ground total distance of 15,000 metres from the start areas or three-dimensional surfaces in the air; and point. A more detailed technical explanation of if he will make a statement on the matter. such areas is outlined by my colleague, the Mini- [17366/04] ster for Transport, in his replies to Question No. 480 on 16 December 2003, Question No. 415 on 140. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for 3 February 2004 and Question No. 438 on 17 Feb- Defence , further to Question No. 205 of 27 April ruary 2004. While the consultants’ report pre- 2004, the way in which the map included as part pared in 1999, referred to by the Deputy, contains of the Aer Rianta report of 1992 differs from the discourse regarding safety zone determinants map included at page 313a of the 1983 Dublin adopted by certain regulatory authorities such as development Plan; and if he will make a state- the CAA and FAA, the recommendation in the ment on the matter. [17367/04] case of Casement Aerodrome contained in the 141. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for report was that the approach areas be retained Defence , further to his reply to Question No. 212 for security and safety reasons because of the of 18 February 2004 and the reference therein to large proportion of training, including single a review of policy based on a consultant’s report engine-solo flights by inexperienced pilots, car- prepared in 1999, if appendix C of the said report ried out at the aerodrome. consists of a copy extract relating to Federal Avi- A visual comparison of the map included in the ation Administration practice and table 2-4 Aer Rianta report of 1992 and the map included thereof confirms that the largest runway protec- at 313a of the 1983 Dublin County development tion zone relating to major international airports plan indicates the extent of difference in the in the USA is a mere 750 metres long; if so, the shapes of the restricted areas. For example, area reason it is necessary to have a similar red safety A indicated on the 1983 development plan map area that is all of 1,370 metres long at either end takes the form of a skewed cross encompassing of both the comparatively minor runways at the aerodrome and its environs with each end Casement Aerodrome, particularly so in the case extending outwards from the runways for a dis- of runway 05 which is classified as non-instru- tance of up to 1,500 metres and at a width of 1,600 ment; and if he will make a statement on the mat- metres. No development was permissible in area ter. [17368/04] A. Following the 1992 report, area A was 142. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for replaced by cone shaped red safety areas whose Defence the rationale for the determination of dimensions have been detailed above. 407 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 408

Defence Forces Management System. Department that are capable of electronic deliv- ery are available electronically through a single 143. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for point of contact, as was promised in the joint pro- Defence if the integrated personnel management gramme; and if not, if he will make a statement system, promised in the Joint Programme, has or explanation in respect of each service not yet been introduced; and the way in which this pro- so provided. [17557/04] gramme interacts with decentralisation. Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): The elec- Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): Initial tronic delivery of services through a single point proposals for an integrated personnel manage- of contact is being progressed through the frame- ment system, IPMS were developed by the mili- work of the Public Services Broker. The responsi- tary authorities and then referred to the top-level bility for its design and development lies with the civil-military Strategic Management Committee Reach agency, which reports to the Department for further development. Some of the key pro- of Social and Family Affairs. My Department is posals were then put to the associations rep- actively involved in the eGovernment pro- resenting officers and enlisted personnel late last gramme, with particular emphasis on eProcure- year in the context of the negotiations on the ment as a major commercial activity. Tenders are application to the Defence Forces of Sustaining regularly posted on the government e-tenders Progress. Those negotiations also involved the portal. The primary public service is the provision preparation of an action plan covering the of comprehensive organisational information, development and implementation of a range of contact points and Freedom of Information e- modernisation elements, including key IPMS mail facilities, all of which are available on the elements. Department’s website. Those negotiations were successful in the per- iod before Christmas and both associations Expenditure Review Initiative. signed up to Sustaining Progress and to the imple- mentation of the action plan over the period to 146. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for mid-2005. The implementation process is now Defence if his Department has achieved the tar- under way. get, set out in the initiation of the expenditure Given the country wide deployment of the review initiative in 1997, that all Government Defence Forces, the IPMS was always predicated expenditure be subject to a formal review under on, and designed for, what is a decentralised that initiative every three years; and if not, the organisation. areas of expenditure in respect of which the three yearly review has not taken place. [17572/04] Air Corps Helicopters. 147. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for 144. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Defence the areas of expenditure of his Depart- Defence if the newly purchased helicopters have ment in respect of which an expenditure review night flight capability; and if he will make a state- under the expenditure review initiative has not ment on the matter. [17552/04] yet been completed and published. [17587/04] Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): The pro- Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): I propose curement process for the acquisition of new heli- to take Questions Nos. 146 and 147 together. copters for the Air Corps has commenced. Fol- The initial target of the Expenditure Review lowing discussions between senior officials in my Initiative (ERI) was to review all expenditure Department and the military authorities, it has programmes over a three year period. However, been decided that up to six helicopters will be a review of the process by the Department of acquired, two Light Utility Helicopters primarily Finance/Expenditure Review Central Steering for Air Corps crew training purposes and four Committee in 2000-01 found that this target had larger Utility Helicopters, with the option of a been over-ambitious and that a more focused further two such helicopters for use in support of approach to the selection of review topics was the Army and for other ancillary uses such as air required. This view was supported by a ambulance. The tender competition was adver- Comptroller and Auditor General value for tised in the Official Journal of the European money study of the ERI in 2001, which proposed Communities on 29 May 2004. The closing date that a more realistic target should be set that took for the receipt of tenders is Friday, 23 July 2004. into account the level of evaluative capacity in The specifications for the helicopters in the Departments generally. Request for Tenders includes, inter alia, require- In June 2001, the Government decided, inter ments for the aircraft to be twin-engined and alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- have full night flying capabilities. The new air- ual Departments/offices should compile and craft will replace the current fleet of Dauphin, agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- Alouette and Gazelle aircraft. ific selection criteria, i.e. that programmes selec- ted for review should reflect Government priori- ties or strategic result areas, involve significant Joint Programme. levels of expenditure, etc.. Subsequently, in May 145. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for 2002, the Government approved a schedule of Defence if all public services provided by his expenditure review topics proposed for the first 409 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 410 year of the next three-year planning horizon, Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): As Mini- 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed for 2003 ster for Defence I have made the following and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC asked appointments in the period 1 January 2003 to 15 Departments/offices to update their expenditure June 2004: Coiste an Asgard, Commodore Frank review plans, again in consultation with the Lynch was appointed on 4 October 2003 and Department of Finance. The Committee empha- replaced Commodore John Kavanagh. Mr. Gerry sised the Government s selection criteria and Donnelly was appointed on 10 February 2004. advised that Departments/Offices should select a Mr. Donnelly did not replace anyone. small number of programmes/areas involving The Government nominated the following to major policy issues or significant levels of expen- the Central Council of the Irish Red Cross diture. On foot of this process, revised expendi- Society on 17 June 2003: Mr. David Andrews, re- ture review plans were drawn up by appointed; Mr. Des Kavanagh, re-appointed; Mr. Departments/Offices. Patrick O’Reilly, re-appointed; Mr. John Har- Under the aegis of the Expenditure Review raghy, re-appointed; Mr. Rory McCabe, re- Initiative and the Efficiency Audit Group process appointed; Sr. Marie Hennessey, re-appointed; which preceded that, the Department of Defence Ms. Hannah Cuddy, re-appointed; Mr. Ted has completed and published the following Noonan, re-appointed; Mr.Cathal Finnucane, re- reviews: The White Paper on Defence; Review appointed; Mr. Fintan Hudson, re-appointed; Mr. and Implementation Plan for the Naval Service; Ciaran Murphy, replaced; Mr. James Sewell; Ms. Review and Implementation Plan for the Air Kit Robinson; Ms. Jennifer Bulbulia; Ms. Siobhan Corps; and Provision of Medical Services for McGee; Mr. Tom Beary; and Ms. Anna Murphy. members of the Defence Forces. It might be Mr. Denis Murphy died on 14 October 2003 and noted that these reviews, together, effectively was not replaced. cover all Defence Vote expenditure. The following persons, who had previously A review of Aircraft Maintenance is nearing been members of the Council, were not re- completion while a review of Defence Forces appointed: Cllr. Cait Keane, Mr. Stephen O’Neill, clothing is being planned. Mr. Paul Foran, Mr. Sea´n Costello and Mr. Kevin Mannion. Question No. 148 withdrawn. Grant Payments. Decentralisation Programme. 152. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Agri- 149. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for culture and Food if funding is still available under Defence the reason he did not provide a reply to the neighbour-wood scheme; the number of Parliamentary Questions Nos. 91 and 92 of 2 June applications on hand; when a decision will be 2004. [17786/04] made in regard to the application from Prosper- Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): As I indi- ous village, County Kildare; and if he will make cated in my reply to Parliamentary Questions a statement on the matter. [17498/04] Nos. 91 and 92 of 2 June 2004, my Department’s Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. decentralisation implementation plan addresses Walsh): I have increased funding for the neigh- the issues of risk assessment and mitigation stra- bour-wood scheme to \450,000 for 2004 and the tegies, etc. The question of what follow-up action scheme remains open. A total of 79 applications and measures are necessary to address issues for approval have been received from local auth- identified in the plan will receive consideration in orities since the scheme was launched in 2001. the weeks and months ahead. There is no record of an application for approval having been received for Prosperous, County 150. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Kildare. Defence if he proposes to publish the decentralis- ation implementation plan of his Department; Milk Quota. and if not, the reason therefor. [17787/04] 153. Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agri- Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith): Follow- culture and Food if he will agree to a transfer of ing its consideration by the Decentralisation milk quota from one brother to another, the same Implementation Committee, it is intended to pub- as from father to son or daughter, in view of the lish the implementation plan for the decentralis- serious situation healthwise which an older ation of my Department on my Department’s brother finds himself in; and his views on whether website. this is a reasonable and just case. [17199/04] Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Appointments to State Boards. Walsh): The milk quota regulations provide that 151. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Defence where a holding is transferred by sale, lease, gift the appointments that have been made to State or inheritance by a person to a relative, as boards and bodies within his Department from 1 defined, the milk quota attached to that holding January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons is transferred to that person. The definition of appointed; and the persons they are replacing. relative in the regulations includes brothers and [17794/04] therefore the same rules apply in the case of 411 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 412

[Mr. Walsh.] 156. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agri- transfer between brothers as in the case between culture and Food the position in relation to scra- a parent and a child. The transfer of milk quota pie and losses that occur on lambs (details without land is not permitted, even between rela- supplied); if there are plans to amend the com- tives, except in cases where there is a land and pensation scheme in order that the farmer is not quota leasing arrangement in place. In that case out of pocket; and if he will make a statement on the milk quota may be purchased without the the matter. [17292/04] land so long as the lease has been in place for at least one year. Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh): EU rules in relation to sheep flocks in Grant Payments. which scrapie is confirmed require member states either to slaughter infected flocks in their entirety 154. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agri- and prohibit re-stocking with sheep for three culture and Food if a decision made recently in a years from the date of slaughter, or alternatively force majeure case concerning a person (details to determine the susceptibility of the animals to supplied) in County Wexford can be reviewed in scrapie by genotyping, and slaughter the more view of the circumstances; and if he will make a scrapie susceptible animals only. statement on the matter. [17251/04] A total of 16 new flocks have been confirmed with scrapie in 2004 to date. Sheep in flocks in Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. which scrapie has been confirmed since 1st Walsh): The person named has been notified that October, 2003 are genotyped free of charge by the circumstances outlined by him do not satisfy my Department to determine their genetic sus- the criteria for force majeure or exceptional cir- ceptibility to scrapie and the more scrapie suscep- cumstances as defined in Article 40 of Council tible animals are slaughtered as required by EU Regulation EC No 1782/2003. Following this legislation. decision the person named submitted an appeal, The package for farmers whose flocks are which has been forwarded to the single payment affected includes free genotyping of the flock, appeals committee for examination. A recom- genotyping of a limited number of replacement mendation in respect of this appeal is expected rams, payment of market value less salvage value shortly and the person named will be advised for sheep required to be slaughtered which are fit directly of the outcome. for the food chain, payment of full market value for sheep which, by virtue of their genotype, are Animal Diseases. required to be destroyed and a supplementary \ 155. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agri- payment of 28 per ewe required to be destroyed. culture and Food the position in relation to scra- In so far as the market rate for lambs is con- cerned, I have already adjusted the package in pie and the delay in blood sampling which takes this regard so that lambs sent for destruction are almost four weeks from the date the blood is attracting a market rate equal to the average fac- taken until the farmer receives results; if there are tory rate in the week of slaughter. I have no plans plans to speed up this process in view of the loss to further adjust the compensation package for incurred to the farmer due to the delay; and if he the present. will make a statement on the matter. [17291/04] Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Animal Identification Scheme. Walsh): A total of 16 new flocks have been con- 157. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agri- firmed with scrapie in 2004 to date. Sheep in culture and Food the position in relation to sheep flocks in which scrapie is confirmed have, since 1 tags; the position regarding same if they fade; and October 2003, been genotyped free of charge by if he will make a statement on the matter. my Department to determine their genetic sus- [17294/04] ceptibility to scrapie and the more scrapie suscep- tible animals are slaughtered as required by EU Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh): The national sheep identification system, legislation. NSIS, came into operation on the 21 June 2001. The central veterinary research laboratory is From that date, all sheep must be tagged on testing samples from scrapie infected flocks at movement off farm with a tag bearing the flock present and although there have been some number of the farm and an individual number. exceptions, the average turnaround time from All sheep remaining on farms must be tagged at receipt of samples to reporting of results has been the latest by 15 December. The system also pro- 17 days. vides for the issue of replacement tags and import The central veterinary laboratory has now com- tags. The individual tag numbers are issued cen- pleted the installation of a large automated trally by my Department and tags are supplied by workstation to cater for the anticipated increase commercial operators. in the number of samples for testing. I understand Tag supply companies and individual tags are this equipment is now fully operational and will approved on an annual basis. Approval is subject allow a significant increase in both the capacity to compliance with strict criteria laid down by my and speed of service over the coming weeks. Department. Failure by any company to meet the 413 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 414 criteria may lead to that company being removed office in Galway via Mountbellew post office but from the list of approved suppliers and or an he has no receipt from the post office to prove approved tag being withdrawn from the market. posting and the register was not received in the This year, 13 tag suppliers have been approved to district livestock office. supply tags to farmers. This allows farmers a wide If the person named produces evidence that the choice as to the type of tag they wish to use and 50 animals despatched on 13 October 2003 were commercial competition has ensured that tags are sold and were ewes, my Department will be available at a reasonable price. To date more happy to consider such evidence on its merits and than 23 million tags have been issued by review this case accordingly. approved suppliers to over 46,000 flock-owners — more than 6.5 million of which were short term Organic Farming. tags which can be used only for lambs moving directly from farm to factory. 159. Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Agri- The performance of NSIS in general, including culture and Food the reason a person (details that of tag suppliers and tags, has been satisfac- supplied) in County Clare was forced to withdraw tory over the past three years. Where isolated from organic farming due to difficulties in secur- problems have arisen, it has been possible within ing supply and market for their produce. the context of the approved tag supplier arrange- [17317/04] ments to address them quickly and effectively and Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. in a manner which does not affect the integrity of Walsh): It is a condition of the rural environment the system as a whole. Where instances of tag fad- protection scheme that a participant who opts for ing are brought to the attention of my Depart- the organic farming supplementary measure must ment, they are taken up immediately with the rel- hold an organic licence for the period of his or evant supplier with a view to having the problem her REP scheme contract and have his or her corrected and replacement tags issued to the operations inspected annually by one of three affected flockowners. Particular design features approved private inspection bodies. The person of NSIS as a whole will allow for any faded tags named did not renew his organic licence in 2004 to be replaced without undermining compliance with the relevant inspection body. As he did not with the requisite requirements for correct indi- hold a valid organic licence for the duration of vidual animal identification and traceability. his REP scheme contract, my Department had no alternative but to terminate his participation in Grant Payments. the supplementary measure and recoup the pay- 158. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for ment made under it. Agriculture and Food the reason a ewe premium The person named has already appealed this grant has still not been awarded to a person decision to the agriculture appeals office and I (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he understand that his appeal was unsuccessful. The will make a statement on the matter. [17308/04] agriculture appeals office is statutorily indepen- dent of my Department. Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh): My Department has had no communi- Grant Payments. cation from the person named since my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 137 of 11 May, 2004 160. Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for regarding payment under the 2003 ewe premium Agriculture and Food when installation aid will scheme. The position remains that as the person be approved in respect of a person (details named failed to satisfy my Department that he supplied) in County Cork. [17377/04] had the number of sheep he applied on in his Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. ownership and possession for the retention per- Walsh): The installation aid scheme involves a iod he cannot be paid 2003 ewe premium accord- two-stage application process, i.e. an initial appli- ing to the relevant EU regulations. The issue of cation, IAS 1, and an application for payment, proof submitted in respect of the sale of ewes IAS 2. The person concerned has submitted an between the date of application on 6 January IAS 1 application but my Department has no 2003 and the date of inspection on 17 December record of having received an application for pay- 2003 has been re-examined. Despatch dockets ment, IAS 2, in this case. A decision will be made dated 30 April 2003 were submitted in respect of as regard payment following the receipt of the 56 animals. The applicant has stated, however, IAS 2 concerned. that these were not sold but taken home again. These dockets do not help to explain the missing 161. Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for 34 ewes. Agriculture and Food when installation aid will A despatch docket dated 13 October 2003 was be approved in respect of a person (details submitted in respect of 50 animals. Had the appli- supplied) in County Cork. [17378/04] cant been able to produce a flock register it could have been cross checked to verify whether or not Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. these 50 animals were ewes. The applicant’s son Walsh): The installation aid scheme involves a had stated at inspection that the flock register had two-stage application process, i.e. an initial appli- been sent to my Department’s district livestock cation, IAS 1, and an application for payment, 415 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 416

[Mr. Walsh.] ularly those with light bark, aged between 10 and IAS 2. The person concerned has submitted an 40 years. The grey squirrel poses a significant IAS 1 application but my Department has no threat to those broadleaf crops planted since record of having received an application for pay- 1995. ment, IAS 2, in this case. A decision will be made From a biodiversity viewpoint the grey squirrel as regard payment following the receipt of the forces the native red squirrel out of those forests IAS 2 concerned. it colonises. In addition it can damage the biodiv- ersity of our native woodlands by reducing the 162. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agri- seed production capacity of high forest species culture and Food when a person (details thereby over time changing their status to scrub. supplied) in County Mayo will be paid slaughter premium payment in 2002. [17434/04] Grant Payments. Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. 165. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agri- Walsh): The person named originally had four culture and Food when suckler cow grant will be animals slaughtered and deemed eligible under awarded to a person (details supplied) in County the 2002 slaughter premium scheme. Payment Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the issued in full on these animals in April 2003. matter. [17554/04] My Department contacted the person named Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. during 2002 regarding the possible eligibility of a Walsh): The person named applied for premium further eight animals. As the slaughter records for 16 animals under the 2003 suckler cow pre- for these animals were incorrect, eligibility under mium scheme. The application was processed for the 2002 slaughter premium scheme could not be payment and an 80% advance instalment in established. However, as these records have since respect of the 16 animals amounting to \2,869.12 been amended and the animals concerned issued on 29 October 2003. deemed eligible under the 2002 scheme, payment Following an inspection it was discovered that will issue shortly. two animals tag numbers 191546190147 and SKJT0007V were not compliant with identifi- Registration of Title. cation and registration requirements as they had 163. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agri- died and these events were not notified to culture and Food if all documentation has been CMMS. Animal tag number 191546190147 was submitted by the Land Commission section of his part of the application lodged by the person Department to enable first registrations to be named and has been rejected with a consequent registered in the Land Registry Office on behalf penalty to be applied in accordance with para- of a number of persons (details supplied) who graph 40 of the terms and conditions of the purchased land directly from the Land Com- scheme. An identification and registration pen- mission in 1992; and if he will make a statement alty in accordance with paragraph 43 of the terms on the matter. [17441/04] and conditions of the scheme will apply in respect of the other unclaimed animal tag number Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. SKJT0007V. The herd owner was notified of this Walsh): All the relevant Land Commission maps and was given the opportunity to seek a review and documents pertaining to the vesting of the of his case but has not done so to date. persons named in the question were lodged by The application has now been processed for my Department in the Land Registry Office in balancing payment in respect of 15 eligible ani- 2001 under the two schedules listed and under mals subject to a 5.88% reduction penalty and a previous schedules. 5.58% identification and registration penalty. Payment will issue shortly. Forestry Development. 164. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agri- Computerisation Programme. culture and Food if the spread of the grey squir- 166. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agri- rel, at the expense of the red squirrel, is having culture and Food if all public services provided a negative impact on forestry development and by his Department that are capable of electronic biodiversity. [17549/04] delivery are available electronically through a sin- gle point of contact, as was promised in the joint Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. programme; and if not, if he will make a state- Walsh): I am aware the grey squirrel poses a ment or explanation in respect of each service not potential threat to broadleaf forests. I have set up yet so provided. [17558/04] a working group within the Department to moni- tor the numbers and make recommendations for Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. control of grey squirrel populations in afforested Walsh): The electronic delivery of services areas. through a single point of contact is being pro- Grey squirrels are currently found throughout gressed through the framework of the public ser- most of the area east of a line from Derry to Cork vices broker and the Reach agency, which reports city and they are expanding their range. The spec- to the Department of Social and Family Affairs, ies is regarded as a pest in forests as it feeds on and is charged with responsibility for its design the buds, flowers and seeds of trees. However, its and development. greatest impact is when it strips the bark from the It is intended that the first stage of the public branches and stems of broadleaf trees, partic- services broker will be launched at the end of this 417 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 418 month. This will be a public facing website, to be 168. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agri- known as reachservices.ie, designed to act as a culture and Food the areas of expenditure of his single point of access to a range of services Department in respect of which an expenditure offered by the Irish public service. Initially reach- review under the expenditure review initiative services.ie will provide access in the form of links has not yet been completed and published. to forms or online services provided on other [17588/04] websites. It will provide access to information and Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. application forms for up to 900 services at time of Walsh): I propose to take Questions Nos. 167 and launch. The range of services accessible through 168 together. reachservices.ie will continue to be expanded The initial target of the expenditure review until it provides a fully comprehensive index to initiative, ERI, was to review all expenditure pro- the full range of publicly provided services in grammes over a three year period. However, a Ireland. review of the process by the Department of Fin- My Department has been co-operating fully in ance expenditure review central steering commit- relation to the ongoing development of the public tee in 2000-2001 found that this target had been services broker, providing information and con- over ambitious and a more focused approach to tact details for services for the immediate launch, the selection of review topics was required. This as well as commencing development work on two view was supported by a Comptroller and Audi- services that will feature in the next phase of the tor General value for money study of the ERI in broker. Many of my Department’s services have 2001 which proposed that a more realistic target already been made available electronically should be set that took into account the level of evaluative capacity in Departments generally. through our website, www.agriculture.gov.ie. In June 2001 the Government decided, inter These services have been developed with due alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- cognisance of the ongoing development of the ual Departments-offices should compile and public services broker and adhere to the stan- agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- dards specified by the broker development team. ific selection criteria, i.e. that programmes selec- As development of the public sector broker con- ted for review should reflect Government priori- tinues, all of my Department’s services that can ties or strategic result areas, involve significant be provided electronically will be made available, levels of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, in May over time, through the public services broker. 2002, the Government approved a schedule of The number of schemes and services that are expenditure review topics proposed for the first provided by my Department will substantially year of the next three-year planning horizon, change after the introduction of the single farm 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed for 2003 payment in 2005. A review of all services is cur- and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC asked rently being undertaken to ascertain those ser- Departments and offices to update their expendi- vices that will be most suitable for electronic pro- ture review plans, again in consultation with the vision in the future. Department of Finance. The committee empha- sised the Government’s selection criteria and Departmental Costs. advised that Departments and offices should sel- ect a small number of programmes areas involv- 167. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agri- ing major policy issues or significant levels of culture and Food if his Department has achieved expenditure. On foot of this process, revised the target, set out in the initiation of the expendi- expenditure review plans were drawn up by ture review initiative in 1997, that all Government Departments offices. expenditure be subject to a formal review under In the light of what I have outlined, my Depart- that initiative every three years; and if not, the ment has undertaken a total of 12 expenditure areas of expenditure in respect of which the three reviews in the areas listed. The position in regard yearly review has not taken place. [17573/04] to these is as follows:

Expenditure Review

Beef classification scheme complete Purchase for destruction scheme complete Programmes in the potato sector complete Overseas development assistance complete Control of horse complete Installation aid scheme to be completed in 2004 Farm waste management scheme to be completed in 2004 Early retirement scheme to be completed in 2004 Dairy laboratories to be completed in 2004 BSE eradication to be completed in 2004 Compensatory allowances to be completed in 2004 School milk scheme to be completed in 2004 419 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 420

[Mr. Walsh.] cessors and poultry processors and to the farming The completed expenditure reviews are currently community on good farming practices to help being considered for publication. prevent the occurrence of the disease.

Grant Payments. Milk Quota. 169. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agri- 171. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agri- culture and Food the reason a person (details culture and Food the reason no responses are supplied) in County Clare has not received for- being furnished to this Deputy from his Depart- estry maintenance grant and yearly grant for ment in regard to matters (details supplied). 2004; and if he will make a statement on the mat- [17690/04] ter. [17614/04] Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh): The letters referred to by the Deputy Walsh): The person in question was informed by concern a number of individual milk producers letter of 26 January 2004 that payment was with- who have incurred a super levy liability in the held because the plantation was not being main- quota year ended on 31 March, 2004. tained to grant standards. The inspecting officer EU and national regulations on the milk quota found that it needed fertilizer and control of system specify that, where the national quota is furze. The applicant informed the Department on exceeded, the overrun must be shared between 11 June 2004 that he had completed the necessary those producers who contributed to the excess. remedial work. I am arranging for a repeat The regulations do not provide for exceptions in inspection as soon as possible. individual cases and therefore it is not open to me to intervene in these cases. The amount of Bovine Diseases. levy payable in individual cases can, of course, be 170. Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Agri- reduced by the distribution of unused quota, flexi culture and Food if he has plans to facilitate the milk, resulting from other producers not filling provision of a vaccine to farmers here whose their individual quotas. This distribution is done livelihoods and the welfare of their animals are on the basis of objective criteria. My Department being seriously threatened by the lack of such a on a regular basis throughout the year publishes vaccine in view of the increasing incidence of the estimates of milk deliveries and the extent to fatal disease of botulism amongst the cattle popu- which these are under or over the national quota lation in certain parts of the country; if his atten- and advises producers to keep in close touch with tion has been drawn to the fact that there is a their co-ops-dairies in this matter. vaccine available to farmers in Northern I understand that letters in the individual cases Ireland. [17683/04] concerned have now issued to the Deputy. Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Appointments to State Boards. Walsh): Under relevant EU and national legis- 172. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agri- lation, the initiative to obtain the appropriate culture and Food the appointments that have authorisation to market any vaccine rests with the been made to State boards and bodies within his sponsoring company. While I am aware that there Department from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004; is currently a vaccine for botulism authorised for the persons appointed; and the persons they are use in Northern Ireland, no application has been replacing. [17795/04] received in this jurisdiction. In response to sus- pected cases of botulism in Ireland, my Depart- Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. ment has, issued extensive guidelines and advice Walsh): The information requested by the through district veterinary offices, dairy pro- Deputy is contained in the following schedule.

Schedule

State Board-Bodies Name Date of Appointment Name of Person Replaced

An Bord Bia * Mr. Noel Cawley 9 July 2003 N/A * Mr. Dan Browne 31 December 2003 N/A * Mr. Pat O’Rourke 31 December 2003 N/A * Ms Gina Quinn 31 December 2003 N/A Ms Brid Rodgers 31 December 2003 Mr. Wm. O’Kane An Bord Glas Nil — — Coillte Teoranta * Mr. Richard Howlin 14 May 2003 N/A Mr. Frank Toal 29 July 2003 Mr. Michael Glennon Ms Grainne Hannon 15 April 2004 Mr. JP Crowley Mr. Philip Lynch 15 April 2004 Mr. Peter Hunt Coford Nil — — Irish National Stud * Lady O’Reilly 7 August 2003 N/A * Mr. Tony Smurfit 7 August 2003 N/A 421 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 422

State Board-Bodies Name Date of Appointment Name of Person Replaced

National Milk Agency * Mr.George Kearns 9 December 2003 N/A * James Murphy 9 December 2003 N/A * Pat Brophy 9 December 2003 N/A Mr. John O’Callaghan 9 December 2003 Mr. Liam Woulfe * Mr. Walter Maloney 9 December 2003 N/A * Mr. Richard Donoghue 14 January 2004 N/A * Mr. John Foster 14 January 2004 N/A Teagasc * Dr. Tom O’Dwyer 15 September 2003 N/A * Mr. Michael O’Dwyer 15 September 2003 N/A Mr. Patrick Kelly 15 September 2003 Mr. Peter Kiely Mr. Jerry Henchy 12 November 2003 Ms Eva Coyle * These refer to re-appointments.

Farm Retirement Scheme. The rateable valuation of commercial property is based on net annual value (NAV) i.e. the rental 173. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agri- culture and Food the options available to persons value of the property. Any ratepayer dissatisfied whose period of participation in the early retire- with the rateability of a property, the valuation ment for farming scheme has come to an end; and assessed on a particular property or the method if he will make a statement on the matter. of calculation can appeal to the Commissioner of [17897/04] Valuation in the first instance and subsequently to the independent Valuation Tribunal. There is Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. a further right of appeal to the High Court and Walsh): There are no restrictions on off-farm ultimately to the Supreme Court on a point of activities either during or after the period when a law. A sum of \68 million has been provided for retired farmer is a participant in the early retire- in the Justice, Equality and Law Reform Vote for ment scheme. The only restriction on former par- 2004 in respect of grants for the provision of child ticipants in the scheme of early retirement from care facilities. farming is that they cannot return to commercial farming in their own right. I have recently 175. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Fin- secured the agreement of the European Com- ance if premises used under the equal oppor- mission that retired farmers, both during and tunities children care programme might be after their time as participants in the early retire- exempted from rates; and if he will make a state- ment scheme, may engage in farming related ment on the matter. [17685/04] activities as an employee of a business providing services to farmers, although a retired farmer can- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): I have not work on the farm from which he or she no plans at present to provide for special treat- retired, or work directly for another farmer. ment of cre`ches under the Valuation Act. The Valuation Act 2001 maintained the long-standing Child Care Facilities. position that commercial facilities — including child care facilities such as play schools, pre- 174. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Fin- schools, cre`ches and Montessori schools — are ance if he will consider granting a rates exemp- liable for rates. Exceptions to this key principle tion to child care facilities similar to that which would quickly be followed by demands for similar applies to schools in view of the high cost of child treatment from the providers of other useful ser- care and the burden which it places on famil- vices and products, which would be difficult in ies. [17397/04] equity to resist. The process could thus substan- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): I have tially reduce local authority revenues, which no plans at present to provide for special treat- would have to be made good by imposing corre- ment of cre`ches under the Valuation Act. The sponding increases on the remaining ratepayers. Valuation Act 2001 maintained the long-standing The rateable valuation of commercial property position that commercial facilities — including is based on net annual value (NAV) that is, the child care facilities such as play schools, pre- rental value of the property. Any ratepayer dis- schools, cre`ches and Montessori schools — are satisfied with the rateability of a property, the liable for rates. Exceptions to this key principle valuation assessed on a particular property or the would quickly be followed by demands for similar method of calculation can appeal to the Com- treatment from the providers of other useful ser- missioner of Valuation in the first instance and vices and products, which would be difficult in subsequently to the independent Valuation Tri- equity to resist. The process could thus substan- bunal. There is a further right of appeal to the tially reduce local authority revenues, which High Court and ultimately to the Supreme Court would have to be made good by imposing corre- on a point of law. A sum of \68 million has been sponding increases on the remaining ratepayers. provided for in the Justice, Equality and Law 423 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 424

[Mr. McCreevy.] tures. Guidelines on the scheme in terms of eligi- Reform Vote for 2004 in respect of grants for the bility criteria and grant levels are available from provision of child care facilities. the Irish Coast Guard. I hope this clarifies the position regarding excise and VAT reliefs in Tax Code. respect of equipment and fuel used by rescue 176. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance craft. if he will consider changing the legislation per- taining to rescue craft so that the VAT and fuel Garda Stations. relief applicable to sea faring rescue crafts will 177. Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Fin- also be relevant to rescue craft operational on ance if the pilot equity exchange programme for fresh water bodies such as lakes, rivers and so on; Garda stations has concluded; the policy changes the plans his Department has to address this ano- being made as a result of the pilot study; if these maly in the legislation; and if he will make a state- changes will affect a Garda station (details ment on the matter. [17691/04] supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Iam a statement on the matter. [17196/04] advised by the Revenue Commissioners that Minister of State at the Department of Finance section 100(1)(h) of the Finance Act 1999 allows (Mr. Parlon): The consultants appointed to man- relief from Mineral Oil Tax on “mineral oil which age the pilot equity exchange programme have is intended for use or has been used as fuel for now assessed the proposals received and will the purpose of sea navigation, including sea fish- make a recommendation shortly. Any policy ing, other than in private pleasure craft”. issues which arise at that stage will be addressed Since the craft referred to by the Deputy are at the appropriate level. for use on inland waterways, the fuel they use The objective of the pilot programme is to does not qualify for this excise relief. I have cur- determine the potential for replacing non-viable rently no plans to amend the legislation to pro- Garda stations with modern facilities using a pub- vide for such relief because there are concerns lic partnership approach The Garda stations in regarding the potential difficulties in controlling the pilot programme include the station referred such a scheme and also the likely negative impact to by the Deputy. on tax yields. Regarding the question of VAT and rescue Tax Code. craft also raised by the Deputy, the Value Added Tax (Refund of Tax)(No.18) Order, 1985, pro- 178. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Finance vides for the repayment of VAT costs incurred in if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 is respect of equipment for use only in respect of entitled to tax relief while on maternity leave. rescue or assistance at sea. The order does not [17262/04] extend to fuel in respect of sea-going rescue craft Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Iam or to fuel or equipment used in rescue craft oper- advised by the Revenue Commissioners that ational on fresh water bodies. maternity benefit, which is paid by the Depart- I have no plans to extend the VAT repayment ment of Social and Family Affairs, is not a tax- arrangements for equipment used in rescue at sea able benefit. to that used by rescue craft operating in fresh Payment of salary to staff while on maternity water bodies or to introduce such an arrangement leave is a matter for the employer. In this case, facilitating a refund on VAT incurred on fuel the tax office has obtained confirmation from the costs. Practical difficulties in distinguishing the employer that salary is not being paid to the intended use of such equipment and fuel and the employee while absent. The employee’s tax cred- potential costs to the Exchequer are my main its will accumulate for the duration of her concerns in this regard. maternity leave and she will have the benefit of However, the Deputy may be aware that the those credits when she returns to work. Should VAT legislation provides for zero-rating of “life she decide not to return to work before 31 saving services provided by the Royal National December 2004 and has paid tax during the year, Lifeboat Institution, including the organisation the taxpayer should obtain her P60 for 2004 from and maintenance of the lifeboat service”. This her employer in the new year and forward it to means that while the RNLI do not charge VAT her local tax district where a review of her tax on the services they provide, they are entitled to liability for the year will be dealt with. reclaim VAT incurred on the goods and services which they purchase in delivering their services. Dormant Accounts Fund. In addition, the Irish Coast Guard, under the aegis of the Department of Communications, 179. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- Marine and Natural Resources, administers the ance the procedures which have been put in place community inland and inshore rescue services to identify moneys in dormant accounts which grant scheme. The Community of Inshore Rescue pre-date the introduction of computerisation of Services and the Inland Rescue Service may bank records; the number of cases which have apply for grants under the scheme in respect of been brought to his attention, in which persons both current and, more recently, capital expendi- or their next of kin have been pursuing amounts 425 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 426 in dormant accounts and the banks dispute the to date. A number of informal surveys have been existence of the account; and if he will make a carried out at various locations. statement on the matter. [17267/04] The Central Applications Facility was launched on 12 May 2004. This new facility, operated by Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The the Civil Service Commission, allows civil and Dormant Accounts Act 2001 makes no distinc- public servants to apply for or express an interest tion between accounts which predate the com- in transferring to one or more provincial puterisation of bank records and accounts which locations. Applications which are received in the were opened thereafter. Therefore, financial institutions are under a legal obligation to treat first period of applications will be given priority all accounts which are deemed dormant under the over those received later. The results of the CAF legislation in the same manner for the purposes will provide an objective indication of the interest of the Act. at each grade level in each location. The infor- mation obtained from the CAF will provide some Part 3 of the Dormant Accounts Act 2001 as amended provides for the appointment by the of the input into the next report of the Decentra- Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, lisation Implementation Group. IFSRA, of inspectors to verify compliance with the Act. These inspectors have the right to Tax Code. inspect and take copies of all records of the credit 181. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Fin- institutions that may relate to dormant accounts ance his proposals to make provision in the Fin- and failure to comply with the direction of an ance Act to stipulate the supply of quality child inspector is an offence. I understand IFSRA is care places through the introduction of capital currently putting arrangements in place in allowances to investors; and if he will make a relation to this function. statement on the matter. [17424/04] To date, I am aware of only one instance in which a credit institution disputed an amount that Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): In an individual was pursuing which involved an budget 1999, I introduced a scheme of capital account that pre-dated computerisation. The allowances in respect of qualifying capital expen- issue did not revolve around the dormancy of the diture incurred on the construction, refur- account but rather whether the moneys involved bishment or extension of a building, or part of a had been withdrawn and the account closed. The building, used as a child care facility. The allow- Ombudsman for Credit Institutions has made a ances are also available in respect of qualifying ruling in this case. capital expenditure incurred on the conversion of As Minister for Finance I have no role in a dis- an existing building, or part of a building, for use pute between a private individual and a credit as such a facility. The allowances apply in respect institution. However, the Irish Financial Services of expenditure incurred on or after 2 December Regulatory Authority offers help and support to 1998 and provide for a seven year write off period people who have a problem with financial prod- at the rate of 15% in the first six years and 10% ucts or services. The authority may be contacted in the seventh year. at: Consumer Information Department, Irish Fin- In budget 2000 I provided for accelerated capi- ancial Services Regulatory Authority, P.O. Box tal allowances for owner operators of such facili- 9138, College Green, Dublin 2. E-mail:consumer- ties in relation to qualifying expenditure incurred [email protected] . Consumer help-line lo-call 1890 77 on or after 1 December 1999. Accordingly, an 77 77. owner-operator can opt to increase the 15% allowance for any year up to a maximum of 100% Decentralisation Programme. of the qualifying expenditure. At the same time, I provided for an initial allowance of 100% for 180. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Fin- both owner-operators and lessors of qualifying ance the number of Dublin based civil servants, premises. A lessor — investor — can only opt to broken down by grade and Department, willing claim the full 100% in year one instead of the to move with their present section to the pro- annual allowances over seven years. Unlike the posed decentralised location, according to the owner-operator who can avail of accelerated surveys on decentralisation which have already allowances, they have no choice regarding the been carried out in each Department; the number percentage of allowances drawn down each year. of Dublin based civil servants broken down by An owner operator can set off the capital grade and Department, willing to move to allowances against their taxable income from all another decentralised location within their own sources. An investor can offset the 100% initial Department; and the number of Dublin based allowances against rental income from all sources civil servants, broken down by grade and Depart- in year one. If there is insufficient rental income ment, willing to move to a decentralised location in that year, the maximum that an investor can in another Department. [17285/04] offset against non-rental income is \31,750. Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): No Thereafter, the balance of the unused capital definitive survey of staff willing to transfer within allowances can only be off-set against rental their employing organisation has been completed income in the following years. 427 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 428

Decentralisation Programme. ance the proposals he has for decentralising per- sons working within the information technology 182. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Fin- ance the reason the staff of Shannon Develop- section of the public service; if these posts are ment are not allowed to register for change on being included within the current CAF system; the new decentralisation website when staff of and when staff will be given sufficient details in organisations such as U´ dara´s Na Gaeltachta, the order to make an informed decision on their per- Western Development Commission, Bus E´ ireann sonal career options. [17546/04] are so allowed. [17460/04] Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Follow- identification of the locations for the IT staff is ing a review of the position, the staff of Shannon under consideration by the Government at Development Company can now register on the present. These locations will be announced as Central Applications Facility, CAF, and express soon as possible. Following this, the posts an interest to decentralise in the same way as staff involved will be included as part of the Central of U´ dara´s Na Gaeltachta, the Western Develop- Applications Facility. ment Commission, and Bus E´ ireann can. Tax Clearance Certificates. Building Societies. 185. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance 183. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- the status of the application for a C2 for a person ance the circumstances in which an account (details supplied) in County Wexford; when it holder in a building society is entitled to receive will be issued; and if he will make a statement on an offer of shares when the building society is the matter. [17547/04] proposing to demutualise; and the basis on which Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Iam some account holders can be excluded from such advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an arrangements. [17466/04] application for a C2 was received from the tax- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Legis- payer on 25 May 2004. C2 certificates are security lation relating to the demutualisation of building printed documents and are prepared by an exter- societies is a matter for the Minister for the nal printing company. In this case, details for the Environment and Local Government and in this production of the C2 certificate have been sent to regard I have no statutory function. the printing company. However, a letter issued to A building society proposing to convert itself the taxpayer on 10 June requesting information into a company must comply with the require- which was omitted from his C2 application form. ments of Part XI of the Building Societies Act If a satisfactory response to this letter is received 1989 and its own rules. The Act requires, inter the taxpayer will be notified to collect the C2 alia, that the members of the society who are immediately on its return from the printers. entitled to vote on a conversion resolution approve a conversion scheme. State Property. Section 101 of the Act requires the conversion scheme to deal with a range of issues, including 186. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- the rights of members of the society to be given ance when the national public property register, shares in the proposed company and to subscribe promised in the joint programme, will be pub- for additional shares, and to specify the basis of lished. [17548/04] any cash payments to be paid out of society funds Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The in consideration of the conversion. Section 101 Government programme states that the Govern- also provides that the terms of a conversion ment “will finalise the compilation of a National scheme shall restrict any rights conferred on Public Property Register to identify properties in members of the society entitling them to shares state control suitable for housing projects”. The in the successor company, to acquire shares in the OPW has compiled an electronic database of successor company in priority to other sub- property holdings based on information supplied scribers or to any distribution of the funds of the by Departments and agencies. Consistent with society. Such rights are restricted, in the case of the commitment in the joint programme the data- those persons who become members of the base has assisted in developing the affordable society after 21 December 1988, to those housing initiative. The latter initiative was agreed members who held shares in the society through- as part of Sustaining Progress. A key aspect of out the period of two years, which expired with this initiative is the identification of surplus state the day on which notice is given to members of land suitable for social and affordable housing the conversion resolution. projects. Sites released to date by local authorities That section also provides that a conversion and a range of other State agencies, under the scheme must be approved by IFSRA as meeting initiative, provide for 24 individual projects the requirements of the Act. throughout the country. Together with affordable housing coming through so-called Part V arrange- Decentralisation Programme. ments, the sites identified so far have the poten- 184. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- tial to deliver 6,100 housing units. 429 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 430

Expenditure Review Initiative. Programmes for Government. 187. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- 188. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- ance if he will make a statement on the effective- ance if all public services provided by his Depart- ness of the Government’s expenditure review ment that are capable of electronic delivery are initiative by reference to the report of the available electronically through a single point of Comptroller and Auditor General on same. contact, as was promised in the joint programme; [17550/04] and if not, if he will make a statement or expla- nation in respect of each service not yet so pro- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The vided. [17559/04] Comptroller and Auditor General published in January 2002 a value for money examination of Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Under the expenditure review initiative. The examin- the Government’s action plans for the infor- ation made several recommendations aimed at mation society, my Department is tasked with improving the effectiveness of the review. Key providing a public sector procurement portal. recommendations included: a comprehensive This portal, named www.etenders.gov.ie, was strategy for the development of the review should launched in March 2001 and revamped in January be put in place; stronger support mechanisms and 2004. It is a single point of contact providing on- central guidance should be provided; a systematic line access to all public sector procurement process of quality assessment of reviews should opportunities. In addition the site includes a be implemented; a formal process for monitoring facility for the on-line creation and submission of tendering notices to the Official Journal of the review impacts should be initiated; a clear set of EU. Ireland is the first EU member state to do principles should be established enabling areas of this at a national level. A pilot facility for the expenditure to be prioritised and scheduled for electronic submission of tenders by suppliers is review; review reports should be published also being developed with a view to being avail- where possible. able to all tenderers before the end of 2004. The expenditure review process has taken on The e-estimates project is also listed as a board many of the recommendations set out in priority for electronic delivery by my Depart- the Comptroller and Auditor General’s study. In ment. As civil servants are the user base for this, 2001 and 2002, the Government approved a series it was never envisaged as a service for delivery of reforms to the initiative on foot of a Depart- under the public services broker which will be the ment of Finance and expenditure review central single point of contact for services consumed by steering committee review of the review process the general public. Phase 1 of this project is under and taking into account the Comptroller and development. Pending the development of the Auditor General’s findings. These reforms public services broker as the single point of con- included the establishment of criteria for the tact for public services, the relevant information selection of programmes for review, the provision services pertaining to my Department are avail- of dedicated central supports for the review pro- able at the single on-line location for Irish cess, a process for assessing the impact of expen- Government information, www.gov.ie, as well on diture reviews, and steps to address the cross- my Department’s website. departmental aspects of the initiative. Arrange- ments for drawing up the terms of reference for Expenditure Review Initiative. reviews have been strengthened. A system of 189. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- external quality assessment of reviews has oper- ance if his Department has achieved the target, ated since mid-2003 and 12 reviews have been set out in the initiation of the expenditure review subject to this form of assessment. An expendi- initiative in 1997, that all Government expendi- ture reviewers’ network has been established and ture be subject to a formal review under that direct training has been provided centrally to civil initiative every three years; and if not, the areas servants involved in the conduct of reviews. The of expenditure in respect of which the three Government decided that completed expenditure yearly review has not taken place. [17574/04] review reports should be published by Depart- ments and offices using their websites and laid 190. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- before the Houses of the Oireachtas. In addition, ance the areas of expenditure of his Department the steering committee has initiated a rolling ser- in respect of which an expenditure review under ies of meetings with secretaries general and heads the expenditure review initiative has not yet been of office to discuss the impact of the review in completed and published. [17589/04] their respective Departments and offices. Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): I pro- The initiative has enabled greater attention to pose to take Questions Nos. 189 and 190 together. be directed to the economy, efficiency and effec- The initial target of the expenditure review tiveness of programmes and areas reviewed as initiative was to review all expenditure pro- well as helping to foster the development of an grammes over a three-year period. However, a evaluation culture within Departments and review of the process by the Department of Fin- offices. The steering committee is preparing a ance, expenditure review central steering com- progress report on the initiative since 2002 which mittee in 2000-01 found that this target had been will be broadly along the lines suggested in para- over ambitious and that a more focused approach graph 4.55 of the Comptroller and Auditor Gen- to the selection of review topics was required. eral’s report. This view was supported by a Comptroller and 431 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 432

[Mr. McCreevy.] ing a sheriff’s warrant issued from Waterford; and Auditor General value for money study of the if a refund of the amount on the summons is due initiative in 2001, which proposed that a more to this person. [17633/04] realistic target should be set that took into Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Iam account the level of evaluative capacity in advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a Departments generally. certificate for a person (details supplied) in In June 2001 the Government decided, inter County Kilkenny was issued by them to the sher- alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- iff in Waterford on 30 October 2002. The certifi- ual Departments and offices should compile and cate related to an under payment of income tax agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- in the amount of \2,191.78, and interest thereon ific selection criteria, namely, that programmes of \2,317.69 for the 1993-94 tax year. The income selected for review should reflect Government tax liability was based on a return of income sub- priorities or strategic result areas, involve signifi- mitted by the person. The certificate was issued cant levels of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, in to the sheriff as a result of the failure of the per- May 2002, the Government approved a schedule son to pay the full amount of income tax due for of expenditure review topics proposed for the that year. Revenue made several requests for first year of the next three-year planning horizon payment to the person prior to the issue of the 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed for 2003 certificate to the sheriff. These notifications con- and 2004. In April 2003, the steering committee tained clear warnings of interest charges on asked Departments and offices to update their unpaid tax and of the possibility that continued expenditure review plans, again in consultation non-payment would lead to enforcement action. with the Department of Finance. The committee The Revenue Commissioners also advise that emphasised the Government’s selection criteria on 4 November 2002 the sheriff issued a demand and advised that Departments and offices should for payment of the tax and interest liabilities, select a few programmes or areas involving major together with sheriff fees and expenses, to the policy issues or significant levels of expenditure. person. On 8 April 2003 payment of the total On foot of this process, revised expenditure amount due, including a sum of \860.65 for sher- review plans were drawn up by Departments iff fees and expenses, was made to the sheriff. and offices. Payment of these amounts has fully cleared the My Department, as part of the first round of liabilities due by the person for that year. Conse- the initiative, reviewed the grant-in-aid to the quently, the Revenue Commissioners advise that Economic and Social Research Institute. In the no refund is due to the person. current round of the initiative the areas of expen- diture of my Department in respect of which an 192. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Finance expenditure review has not yet been completed if the necessary arrangements will be made to and published include ongoing expenditure have the tax claim by a person (details supplied) reviews of the grant-in-aid to the Institute of Pub- in Dublin 11 dealt with speedily; and if he will lic Administration; payments to the promoters of make a statement on the matter. [17686/04] certain charitable lotteries; the change manage- ment fund; and the Information Society. Planned Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The expenditure reviews include consultancies; the Revenue Commissioners inform me that they grant-in-aid to the Economic and Social Research have reviewed the taxpayer’s liability for the Institute which was reviewed in 1997 as part of years 1998-99 to date. As her income exceeded the first round of the review; and the grant-in-aid the exemption limits for the years in question, she to Ordnance Survey Ireland. is liable to pay tax on her income, including her It should be noted that EU programmes are pensions, for those years. Under payments of tax subject to their own reviews, including evaluation arose for the years 1998-99 to 2002. A review of by independent consultants and a review process her tax liability for the year 2003 has shown an with the European Commission led by the over payment. When this over payment is set Department of Finance. These programmes are against the under payment for previous years, not therefore included in the review process. Sev- there is still a small liability. The Revenue Com- eral programmes have not been included in the missioners do not propose to pursue this. review process because of the low level of funding involved, for example, expenditure of \120,000 in Tax Code. respect of committees and commissions. Other 193. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Fin- programme areas such as the child care initiative ance if he will reduce the tax on soft drinks sold and procurement management reform were not in pubs in order to reduce alcohol consumption; included in the current round of reviews because, and if he will make a statement on the matter. when the Department’s review plan was being [17742/04] formulated, they were at too early a stage to review. These programmes will, however, be con- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Soft sidered for future review. drinks, fruit juices and bottled water are subject to VAT at the standard rate of 21%. Alcoholic Tax Collection. beverages are subject to excise duties. VAT applies to alcoholic beverages at the standard 191. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for rate. Under Annex H of the EU Sixth VAT Finance if a detailed statement will issue to a per- Directive, member states are permitted to apply son (details supplied) in County Kilkenny regard- a reduced rate of not less than 5% to food and 433 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 434 non-alcoholic beverage items. It would be poss- 195. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- ible therefore to apply our reduced rate of 13.5% ance if the decentralisation plan for all agencies to all soft drinks. under his aegis has yet been submitted to the There is no evidence to suggest that if the VAT decentralisation implementation group; and if not rate on soft drinks was reduced to 13.5% that there reason therefor. [17752/04] consumers would benefit from reduced prices in pubs for such products. Such a VAT reduction, Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The even if passed on, would result in a relatively decentralisation plans for all the agencies under small price change. In addition, a reduction in the the aegis of my Department have been submitted rate of VAT on soft drinks would be costly to the to the decentralisation implementation group. Exchequer. Even if there was a reduction in the 196. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- price of soft drinks, arising from a VAT change, ance if he proposes to deal with the risks associ- there is no evidence that this would have any ated with decentralisation in the annual report of impact on consumption of alcohol, or encourage his Department for 2004. [17753/04] a move away from alcoholic drinks. I have no plans, therefore, to introduce the change pro- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Depart- posed by the Deputy. ments are required to prepare an annual report under section 4 of the Public Service Manage- Decentralisation Programme. ment Act 1997. This is an account of progress by the Department in the preceding year with the 194. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Fin- implementation of its statement of strategy. All ance the contents of the guidance his Department such reports by my Department concentrate on has issued to other Departments on the question the achievement of our strategic priorities — and of risk management both in general terms and in will continue to do so — commenting, where terms of the particular risks associated with the appropriate, on factors, including risk factors, relocation of Government offices. [17751/04] affecting or likely to affect the achievement of Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): My our objectives. Department produced guidance on risk manage- Ministerial Appointments. ment for Departments and offices earlier this year and the text is available on my department’s 197. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance website www.finance.gov.ie. The document gives the appointments that have been made to State guidance on risk management and does not deal boards and bodies within his Department from 1 with specific risks. I have no doubt Departments January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons and offices will follow this guidance as they pro- appointed; and the persons they are replacing. ceed with the implementation of decentralisation. [17796/04] In addition to these guidelines, the decentralis- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): The fol- ation implementation group appointed by the lowing table sets out the appointments that have Government, requested all decentralising organ- been made to State boards and bodies operating isations to prepare an implementation plan and under the aegis of my Department between 1 Jan- requested that each plan incorporate specific risk uary 2003 and 15 June 2004 and the names of the assessment and mitigation strategies. persons being replaced, where relevant.

Name of Board or Body Names of people appointed since 1 Names of people replaced January 2003

National Development Finance Agency Dr. Michael Somers New body set up in January 2003. Mr. Jim Farrell Ms Ann Fitzgerald Mr. Anthony Jones Mr. Peter McManamon Ms Ann Counihan Mr. Jim Farrell

National Lottery Board Mr. Donal Curtin Mr. John Hynes Mr. Ray Bates Re-appointment Mr. Micheal O´ Muircheartaigh Re-appointment

Central Bank & Financial Services Mr. Gerard Danaher New financial structure established on 1 Authority of Ireland(1) Ms Deirdre Purcell May 2003. Mr. David Begg Mr. Donal Byrne, Mr. Michael Mr. Friedhelm Danz McBennett and Mr. Jim Nugent retired Mr. John Dunne from the Board of the Central Bank on Mr. Roy Donovan the establishment of the new financial Mr. Martin O’Donoghue structure.

Irish Financial Services Regulatory Mr. Brian Patterson (Chair) New body established on 1 May 2003. Authority(2) Mr. Alan Ashe Mr. Friedhelm Danz Mr. Gerard Danaher Mr. John Dunne Mr. Jim Farrell Ms Deirdre Purcell Mr. Dermot Quigley 435 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 436

Name of Board or Body Names of people appointed since 1 Names of people replaced January 2003

Revenue Powers Group Mr. Justice Francis Murphy, (Chair) New Group established in March 2003. Ms Julie Burke Mr. James Jennings Ms Suzanne Kelly Mr. Sean Moriarty Mr. Michael Mullins Mr. Roderick Ryan

Decentralisation Implementation Mr. Phil Flynn (Chair) New Committee established in Committee Mr. Eddie Sullivan December 2003. Mr. Sean Benton Ms Jane Williams Mr. Dermot Quigley Mr. Fred Devlin

Valuation Tribunal Ms Mairead Hughes Mr. William Nolan Mr. John Kerr Mr. Tim Cotter

Interim Board of the Civil Service Mr. John Bradshaw Mr. Eugene Lennon Childcare Agency Ms Marie McLaughlin Mr. John O’Connell Mr. Ernan Toibin Mr. Frank O’Brien Ms Joyce Nolan Mr. John Bradshaw

Committee for Performance Awards Ms Ann Fitzgerald Ms Niamh Brennan

Civil Service Arbitration Board Mr. Gerard Durcan S.C. Re-appointments (Chairperson) Mr. Derek Hunter Mr. Tom Wall

Adjudicator for the Civil Service and Ms Niamh Stewart B.L. Re-appointment Teachers C& A Schemes

Permanent Defence Forces Arbitration Mr. Gerard Durcan S.C. New Board established in January 2004. Board (Chairperson) Mr. Derek Hunter (as member nominated by Government) Mr. George Maybury (as member nominated by the representative associations)

Adjudicator for Defence Forces C& A Ms Niamh Stewart B.L. Re-appointment Scheme

Independent Mediation Officer for the Civil Mr. Kieran McGovern Re-appointment Service Grievance Procedure

Chairperson of the Civil Service Ms Inge Clissmann Re-appointment Disciplinary Code Appeals Board

Alternate Director at the European Bank Mr. Desmond O’Malley Mr. Michael Flynn for Reconstruction and Development

Alternate Director of the International Mr. Charles X. O’Loghlin Mr. Nicholas O´ Murchu´ Monetary Fund

Board of Directors of the European Mr. Noel O’Gorman Re-appointment Investment Bank

Alternate Director of the European Mr. Kevin Cardiff Mr. Cardiff, as part of a rotation Investment Bank agreement, replaced the Danish Alternate Director.

In addition to the appointments outlined in the above table, the President, on the advice of the Government following a resolution passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas, appointed Ms Emily O’Reilly, to succeed Mr. Kevin Murphy, as Ombudsman and Freedom of Information Commissioner with effect from June 2003. Footnotes: (1) In addition to the persons named the following are ex officio members of the board; the Governor and Director General of the bank, the Secretary General of the Department of Finance, the chairperson of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority and the Chief Executive of that authority. (2) In addition to the persons named the Chief Executive and the Consumer director of the authority are ex officio members of the board.

Departmental Bodies. process under way within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. 198. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance [17874/04] the name and number and commencement date of policy review groups with a public consultative Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Policy review groups in my Department engage in a con- 437 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 438 sultative process where appropriate. However, partners, adopted Council conclusions on Indone- there is no policy review group within my Depart- sia. These confirmed the EU’s support for the ter- ment with a public consultative process under ritorial integrity of Indonesia and stressed the way at this time. importance of the full implementation, in both letter and spirit, of the special autonomy law in Tax Code. Papua. This law, which dates from November 199. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance 2001 but has not yet been fully implemented, pro- if tax credits can be claimed for the cost of ses- vides for a greater degree of autonomy for Papua sions with a psychotherapist; if not, the reason than for Indonesia’s other provinces. Sub- therefor; if tax credits can be claimed for the cost sequently, in January 2004 the External Relations of sessions with a psychotherapist when the pati- Council adopted conclusions on South East Asia ent has been referred by a psychiatrist; and if he which reiterated our commitment to the terri- will make a statement on the matter. [17921/04] torial integrity of countries in that region, to a democratic and stable region and to the pro- Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy): Under motion of human rights, democratic principles section 469 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 and good governance. relating to health expenses, tax relief may be As a demonstration of our commitment as claimed at the individual’s marginal, or highest, Presidency to raise the level of our political dia- rate of tax in respect of sessions with a psycho- logue with Indonesia, I led an EU ministerial therapist where the psychotherapist is a qualified Troika meeting with the Indonesian Foreign medical practitioner registered in the register Minister, Mr. Wirajuda, on 18 April last. This was established under section 26 of the Medical Prac- the first meeting at this level between the EU titioners Act 1978 or an individual is referred to a Presidency and Indonesia in a number of years. psychotherapist by a psychiatrist for a diagnostic In particular, I used the occasion to express the procedure. As with all medical expenses, relief EU’s continuing concerns about the situation in cannot be claimed for any expenditure that has Papua. Minister Wirajuda took note of our con- been or will be reimbursed by a medical insurer cerns and expressed his belief that the special — for example, VHI or BUPA. In addition, the autonomy law will satisfy the aspirations of the first \125 of any medical expenses incurred in any overwhelming majority of the people in Papua. I tax year does not qualify for tax relief. In the case made it clear that we would carefully monitor the of an individual claiming relief in respect of two situation in this regard. or more persons, the first \250 in any year does Ireland, together with its EU partners, will con- not qualify for tax relief. tinue to support the development of a strength- ened partnership and effective dialogue between EU Presidency. the EU and Indonesia. The Government sees this 200. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for For- as the most effective framework at this time for eign Affairs the position of the Government in addressing our serious concerns about the situa- respect of independence for West Papua from tion in Papua. Indonesia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17286/04] EU Treaties. 201. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): Foreign Affairs his views on whether the proposal Ireland, together with its EU partners, welcomes for a social clause through an additional Article the progress Indonesia has made in its democratic III-2a, in the draft constitutional treaty will be reform process. We recognise the importance of accepted as part of the final text of the treaty; his the elections to the Legislature, held in April further views on whether the proposal to amend 2004, and the forthcoming presidential elections, the text of Article III-6 to ensure the competence to be held in July 2004. of member states to provide, commission and While acknowledging Indonesia’s legitimate fund services of general economic interest will be concern to preserve its territorial integrity, we incorporated into the final text of the treaty; and continue to encourage the Government of that if he will make a statement on the matter. country to strengthen its efforts to address the [17484/04] legitimate aspirations of the people of Papua. A balanced way forward would involve good Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): Pro- governance and more control of the land and posals to include a social clause through a new resources for their own benefit by the local popu- Article III-2a and an amended Article III-6 were lation. In this regard, I welcomed the decision in included as part of Document CIG 79/04 circu- August 2003 of the Government of Indonesia to lated by the Presidency on 10 June last. This suspend the implementation of the presidential document covered those technical issues on decree dividing Papua into three provinces. I which the Presidency considered a broad consen- regret, however, that this suspension has been sus had been reached and on which it was seeking described by the Government of Indonesia as confirmation from partners that no fundamental temporary. problems existed in advance of this week’s final At the April 2003 meeting of the EU External meeting of the IGC. Following yesterday’s meet- Relations Council, Ireland, together with its EU ing of Foreign Ministers, the Presidency believes 439 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 440

[Mr. Cowen.] tronically. The Department is considering the a broad consensus exists in favour of the inclusion feasibility of offering a passport application track- of these two articles. A formal decision on their ing system and a partial on-line application sys- inclusion, however, will be made in the context of tem over the Internet. Decisions on the feasibility an overall agreement on the new constitutional of delivering these services electronically will be treaty. made later this year.

Electronic Delivery of Services. Expenditure Review Initiative. 202. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for For- 203. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for For- eign Affairs if all public services provided by his eign Affairs if his Department has achieved the Department that are capable of electronic deliv- target, set out in the initiation of the expenditure ery are available electronically through a single review initiative in 1997, that all Government point of contact, as was promised in the joint pro- expenditure be subject to a formal review under gramme; and if not, if he will make a statement that initiative every three years; and if not, the or explanation in respect of each service not yet areas of expenditure in respect of which the three so provided. [17560/04] yearly review has not taken place. [17575/04] Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): The 204. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for For- electronic delivery of services through a single eign Affairs the areas of expenditure of his point of contact is being progressed through the Department in respect of which an expenditure framework of the public services broker and the review under the expenditure review initiative Reach agency, which reports to the Department has not yet been completed and published. of Social and Family Affairs. The Department of [17590/04] Foreign Affairs is working with the Reach agency to offer the Department’s services capable of Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): I electronic delivery through this single point of propose to take Questions Nos. 203 and 204 contact. together. The Reach agency intends to launch the first The initial target of the expenditure review stage of the public services broker at the end of initiative, ERI, was to review all expenditure pro- this month. This will be a public facing website, grammes over a three-year period. However, a to be known as reachservices.ie, designed to act review of the process by the Department of Fin- as a single point of access to a range of services ance-expenditure review central steering commit- offered by the Irish public service. Initially, reach- tee in 2000-01 found that this target had been services.ie will provide access in the form of links over-ambitious and that a more focused approach to forms or on-line services provided on other to the selection of review topics was required. websites, including those of the Department of This view was supported by a value for money Foreign Affairs. It will provide access to infor- study of the ERI, carried out by the Comptroller mation and application forms for up to 900 ser- and Auditor General in 2001, which proposed vices at time of launch. that a more realistic target should be set which Future releases of the public services broker would take into account the level of evaluative will include facilities for registration and auth- capacity in departments generally. entication of customer identity, address vali- In June 2001, the Government decided, inter dation, the pre-population of forms with pre- alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- viously registered data and an e-payments facility. Another important facility will be the capability ual Departments and offices should compile and for developing and hosting on-line interactive agree a work plan of review topics, based on spec- forms which will be offered to Departments and ific selection criteria — that is, that programmes Agencies that are developing on-line services for selected for review should reflect Government their customers. priorities or strategic result areas or involve sig- As there are considerable complexities associ- nificant levels of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, ated with the requirement of customers to pro- in May 2002 the Government approved a sched- vide photographs and signatures in a secure auth- ule of expenditure review topics proposed for the enticated electronic form, the services delivered first year of the next three-year planning horizon, by the Department of Foreign Affairs are not eas- 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed for 2003 ily delivered via electronic channels. The Reach and 2004. In April 2003 the central steering com- agency has informed the Department that the mittee asked Departments and offices to update functionality required to securely accept, auth- their expenditure review plans, again in consul- enticate, store and protect the photographs and tation with the Department of Finance. The com- signatures required for Departmental services mittee emphasised the Government’s selection will not be available until later releases of the criteria and advised that Departments-offices broker. should select a small number of programmes or Pending the delivery by the Reach agency of a areas involving major policy issues or significant fully functional public services broker, the levels of expenditure. On foot of this process, Department is examining the feasibility of mak- revised expenditure review plans were drawn up ing certain passport services available elec- by Departments and offices. Details of expendi- 441 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 442 ture reviews undertaken by my Department are report are recommendations for the EU to con- set out in the appendix. demn draconian legislation in Zimbabwe, for In addition to reviews under the public expen- intensive engagement with Zimbabwe’s southern diture review process, operations and pro- African neighbours and for continued humani- grammes administered by my Department are tarian aid. subject to a range of evaluation mechanisms. The The EU has continually expressed its serious inspection and internal audit unit of the Depart- concern at the deteriorating political and human ment conducts regular reviews of services and rights in Zimbabwe. A major priority of Ireland’s programmes within the Department with a view EU Presidency has been the promotion of to assessing their effectiveness and value for African issues on the EU agenda, which includes money. In addition, the evaluation and audit unit a concentration on the current Zimbabwean of Development Co-operation Ireland conducts a crisis. In February 2004 the EU’s Common Posi- schedule of evaluations designed to determine tion on Zimbabwe noted the worsening human the efficiency of programmes, identify areas for rights environment in that country. Faced with improvement and enable lessons to be learned. this scenario, the Council renewed sanctions on Most such evaluations are undertaken by external those individuals whom the EU regards as bear- consultants in co-operation with staff of the unit. ing the main responsibility for serious violations Ireland also participates in joint donor evaluation of human rights in Zimbabwe. The sanctions are of programmes — often under the umbrella of targeted against the political elite and include a the OECD’s development assistance committee travel ban and an assets freeze, as well as an — and has access to a wide range of reviews and arms embargo. evaluations undertaken by other bilateral and The Council also expressed its deep concern at multilateral donors. legislation in Zimbabwe, which seriously infringes Appendix: citizens’ right to freedom of association and assembly, namely the Public Order and Security Reviews completed Act, POSA. Concern was similarly expressed • Management of embassy properties abroad regarding the application and provisions of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy • EU programme on peace and reconciliation Act, AIPPA, which denies freedom of expression • Irish Aid to Ethiopia and restricts freedom of the press. The Council • Reaching out to communities: Area Based also deplored the consistent undermining of the Programmes 1994-2000 independence of the judiciary by the Government of Zimbabwe. • Review of In-country Micro-projects With regard to intensive pressure on neigh- Scheme* bouring countries in southern Africa, this is a pol- • Inhambane Area-based Programme, icy that has been pursued vigorously by the EU Mozambique* and by Ireland in its bilateral relations. The EU raised its profound concerns regarding Zimbabwe Reviews in progress at both the EU-Africa and the EU-South Africa ministerial Troika meetings in Dublin on 1 and 2 • Expenditure on cultural relations April of this year. I also raised the Zimbabwe • Support to education sector in Zambia and issue bilaterally in my meetings with President Uganda 2000 to 2003 Chissano of Mozambique, current chair of the African Union, and President Mbeki of South • Public Expenditure Review of Support to Africa last November. The Irish Presidency Afghanistan 2000 to 2003 arranged for the EU’s Common Position on Zim- • EU Accession Countries — Training babwe to be formally communicated to all Programme members of the Southern Africa Development * These reviews relating to the development co-operation Community, SADC. We also reiterated our will- programme are published on the Development Co-oper- ingness to engage with the Government of Zim- ation Ireland website, www.dci.gov.ie. Future reviews, babwe on the basis of an established set of including those in progress, will also be published by the Department. governance centred benchmarks. The EU is strongly committed to the welfare Human Rights Issues. of the Zimbabwean people, as evidenced by its donation of \294 million of humanitarian assist- 205. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for ance to the citizens of Zimbabwe over the 2002- Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on 03 period. Development Co-operation Ireland, the concerns set out by Tro´ caire in its document, DCI, has also made \8 million in emergency and The Zimbabwean Struggle: Obstacles to Democ- humanitarian assistance available for the affected racy. [17607/04] countries in southern Africa, of which \3 million Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): went directly to Zimbabwe. In 2003 DCI also pro- Tro´ caire’s document, The Zimbabwean Struggle: vided funding of more than \2 million to five Obstacles to Democracy, is a welcome addition development projects in Zimbabwe. All of this to the debate on Zimbabwe. Central to this aid is channelled through the World Food Pro- 443 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 444

[Mr. Cowen.] account of the Department’s decentralisation gramme, UNICEF, the Red Cross and other implementation plan which would, in turn, international NGOs. address issues such as service and business conti- nuity, efficiency and effectiveness and financial Decentralisation Programme. implications and would incorporate specific risk assessment and mitigation strategies. I also indi- 206. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for For- cated there was a high level of awareness in the eign Affairs the reason the decentralisation Department of Foreign Affairs of the types of implementation plan for his Department was not risks identified in paragraph 6.31 of the, Report completed within the time limit set; and if the of the Working Group on the Accountability of preparation of this report has involved the diver- Secretaries General and Accounting Officers, the sion of staff resources from other work. Mullarkey report, and that the Department’s [17769/04] implementation plan would be submitted to me Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): As prior to its transmission to the decentralisation the Deputy will appreciate, the decision to implementation group. decentralise the Department’s development co- operation directorate to Limerick raised a num- Appointments to State Boards. ber of issues relating to the conditions of service 208. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign which would apply to officers of the Department Affairs the appointments that have been made to of Foreign Affairs transferring to Limerick and to State boards and bodies within his Department officers of other Departments and agencies join- from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons ing this Department. It has been necessary to appointed; and the persons they are replacing. consider these issues with the Department of Fin- [17797/04] ance and we are in ongoing consultation with them in this regard. Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): The The Department has also recently inspected a following appointments have been made to site in Limerick city proposed by the Office of boards and bodies within my Department Public Works, OPW, as the location for the new between January 2003 and mid June 2004: On 6 premises for the development co-operation direc- March, 2003, Mr. Pa´draig McManus was torate. Certain issues arising from that inspection appointed as a member of the advisory board for remain to be addressed with the OPW. The suit- Development Co-operation Ireland. Mr. ability, or otherwise, of the site will have a major McManus is an additional member of the board bearing on the timescale for completion of the and was not appointed to replace anybody else. decentralisation, and therefore on the implemen- On 4 September, 2003, Mr. Chris Flood was tation plan. appointed to succeed Mr. Desmond O’Malley as In light of that, it was not feasible for this chairperson of the board. Department to meet the time frame recom- Ms Morina O’Neill was appointed a member of mended in the report of the decentralisation the development education advisory committee implementation group for submission of imple- on 8 May, 2003, replacing Ms Annette Honan. On mentation plans. The plan is now being finalised the same date, Mr. Robert Kirkpatrick replaced by a committee, comprising mainly representa- Mr. Hugh O’Neill as the Department of Edu- tives of the Department’s corporate services and cation and Science’s representative on the development co-operation divisions, and has not committee. necessitated the diversion of staff resources from On 24 October, 2003, Mr. Peter Johnson other work. I am confident the plan will be sub- replaced Ms Frances Leahy as the representative mitted to the Department of Finance within the of the National Council for Curriculum and next ten days. Assessment on the Committee. The following persons were appointed to the 207. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for For- board of APSO since January 2003: Ms Catherine eign Affairs the reason he has not replied to Par- Boylan replaced Mr. Donal McDonald on 20 Jan- liamentary Question No. 120 of 2 June 2004. uary 2003; Mr. Aidan O’Connor was appointed [17770/04] to a pre-existing vacancy on 1 August, 2003; Mr. Pat Bourne replaced Ms Helen Browne on 12 Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen): In September 2003. Since 1 January 2004, APSO has his Parliamentary Question No. 120 of 2 June been integrated into Development Co-operation 2004, the Deputy asked if the Minister for For- Ireland. It is expected that the board of APSO eign Affairs would take steps to ensure that the will be wound up shortly. annual report of his Department would contain a risk assessment of decentralisation, as it affects School Absenteeism. his Department or agencies under its aegis, deal- ing with strategic, operational, financial and repu- 209. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for tational risks as set out in paragraph 6.31 of the Education and Science if in regard to persons Mullarkey report. In my combined reply to this (details supplied) his attention has been drawn to and a number of related questions, I indicated the fact that their child has not been in school for that the Department’s annual report would take two years; the arrangements his Department has 445 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 446 made in this regard; and if he will make a state- of whether their applications for same have been ment on the matter. [17632/04] successful. [17190/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 Dempsey): The position is that applications for established the National Educational Welfare special education resources, SER, received Board as the single national body with responsi- between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are bility for school attendance. The Act provides a being considered at present. In all, more than comprehensive framework promoting regular 5,000 such applications were received. Priority school attendance and tackling the problems of was given to cases involving children starting absenteeism and early school leaving. The gen- school last September and all these cases were eral functions of the board are to ensure that each responded to at or before the commencement of child attends a recognised school or otherwise the current school year. receives a certain minimum education. The balance of more than 4,000 applications To discharge its responsibilities, the board is has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- developing a nationwide service that is accessible ing members of my Department’s inspectorate to schools, parents-guardians and others con- and the National Educational Psychological Ser- cerned with the welfare of young people. For this vice, NEPS. These applications have been further purpose, educational welfare officers, EWOs, are considered in the context of the outcome of sur- being appointed and deployed throughout the veys of SER provision conducted over the past country to provide a welfare-focused service to year and the data submitted by schools as part of support regular school attendance and discharge a nationwide census of SER provision. the board’s functions locally. In the case of teacher resources, the outcome The board has appointed a chief executive for each applicant school will be based on a new officer, directors of corporate services and edu- weighted system of allocation, as part of which cational welfare services and a management team an additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated. of eight staff. To date, 62 educational welfare Transitional arrangements for the introduction of staff have been appointed. I understand the the weighted system are being developed in con- board will soon make a further EWO appoint- sultation with representative interests. It is envis- ment which will bring the service delivery staff to aged that those consultations can be completed its authorised complement of 63 service delivery and schools notified of the outcome before the staff. end of the current school year. At this stage of its development, the aim of the board is to provide a service to the most disad- School Accommodation. vantaged areas, including areas designated under the Government’s RAPID programme and most 211. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Edu- at-risk groups. Five regional teams have now cation and Science the progress being made on been established with bases in Dublin, Cork, Lim- the application for a temporary pre-fab to cater erick, Galway and Waterford and an educational for one class at a school (details supplied) in welfare service is now available, for the first time, County Offaly; and if he will make a statement in the cities of Limerick, Galway and Kilkenny. on the matter. [17192/04] Twelve towns with significant school going popu- lations, 11 of which are designated under the Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Government’s RAPID programme, also now Dempsey): The school planning section of my have an educational welfare officer allocated to Department has considered all applications for them. These towns are Dundalk, Drogheda, temporary accommodation. In the context of the Navan, Athlone, Carlow, Wexford, Bray, Clon- available funding and the number of applications mel, Tralee, Ennis, Sligo and Letterkenny. In for that funding, it was not possible to approve addition, the board will follow up on urgent all applications received and only those with an cases nationally. absolute and demonstrated need for additional In July 2004, the board will receive the first accommodation were approved. The application comprehensive data returns from schools and from the school referred to by the Deputy was these will assist it in keeping the level of need for not successful on this occasion. the new service in particular areas under review. The need for accommodation at the school will The NEWB has indicated that it is not aware be considered in the context of a review which is of the circumstances of the case raised by the being undertaken of all projects that did not pro- Deputy. However, the board has indicated that it ceed to construction as part of the 2004 school is prepared to meet the Deputy to hear his con- building programme with a view to including it as cerns and to see how best it can respond. part of a multi-annual school building programme from 2005 onwards. I expect to be in a position Special Educational Needs. to make further announcements in this matter later this year. 210. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science when the 350 new posi- 212. Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for tions in learning support and resource teaching Education and Science if the provision of three will be filled; and when schools will be notified pre-fabs will be fast tracked for a school (details 447 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 448

[Mr. Healy-Rae.] 2004, for a school (details supplied) in County supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a Galway. [17195/04] statement on the matter. [17193/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): The staffing of a primary school is Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. determined by reference to the enrolment of the Dempsey): All applications for temporary accom- school on 30 September of the previous school modation have been considered in the school year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed planning section of my Department. In the con- between my Department and the Education text of available funding and the number of appli- partners. cations received for that funding it was not poss- In the current school year the staffing of the ible to approve all applications received and only school referred to by the Deputy is a principal those with an absolute and demonstrated need plus three mainstream class teachers based on an for additional accommodation were approved. enrolment of 92 pupils at 30 September 2002. The application from the school to which the In accordance with the staffing schedule, the Deputy refers was not successful on this occasion. staffing of the school for the 2004-05 school year The school’s need for accommodation will be will be principal plus three mainstream class considered in the context of a review being teachers based on an enrolment of 108 pupils at undertaken of all projects that did not proceed as 30 September 2003. part of the 2004 school building programme with To ensure transparency and openness in the a view to including it as part of a multi-annual system an independent appeals board is now in school building programme from 2005, details of place to decide on appeals on mainstream staffing which will be announced later in the year. in primary schools. Details of the appeals pro- cedure are outlined in my Department’s primary Student Support Schemes. circular 03/04. 213. Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for This school is included in the rural dimension Education and Science if the provision of a of the disadvantage initiatives. The school is one remote area grant will be fast-tracked for a per- of four schools, in a rural cluster with a rural co- son (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he ordinator and is also in receipt of financial sup- will make a statement on the matter. [17194/04] port under the scheme. A detailed review of all educational disadvan- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. tage initiatives is nearing completion within my Dempsey): Under the remote area grant scheme, Department and this will impact on existing provision exists for the payment of grants towards schemes. I hope to announce the outcome of this boarding or lodging fees in respect of pupils who review shortly. satisfy certain eligibility criteria in respect of remoteness from the nearest school providing Higher Education Grants. suitable free second level education. My Depart- 215. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Edu- ment has been in contact with Bus E´ ireann who cation and Science the procedure to be followed has confirmed that as the pupil’s residence, in this in the case of a person (details supplied); and if case, is within 15 miles of Gaelcholaiste Chiarraı´, he will make a statement on the matter. Tralee, the nearest all-Irish medium post-primary [17204/04] school, the pupil concerned does not qualify for a boarding grant under the terms of the remote Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. area grant scheme. Dempsey): The higher education grant schemes It has been intimated that an exemption be operate under the Local Authorities (Higher given to the pupil in this case in respect of the Education Grants) Acts, 1968 to 1992. These Acts remote area grant scheme on the basis that the define a mature student to mean a person “of not nearest all-Irish school appears not to be offering less than 23 years of age, or such other age as the prescribed certified course in two specific sub- may stand specified for the time being in regu- ject areas. This is neither a reasonable nor ten- lations made by the Minister with the consent of able basis to justify granting the exemption in the Minister for Finance, who have secured places question. In this case, my Department’s responsi- in approved institutions and have reached that bility to provide an all-Irish medium post-primary age on the 1st day of January, or such other date education is satisfied through Gaelcholaiste Chi- as may be prescribed from time to time by the arraı´. The extent of curricular diversity at Gaelch- Minister with the consent of the Minister for Fin- olaiste Chiarraı´ is a matter for the school’s man- ance, in the year of entry to such institutions”. agement authority. The Acts further provide, inter alia, for the mak- ing of grants to mature students whose means and those of their parents, where the mature students School Staffing. are dependent on their parents, and the means of 214. Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for their spouses, if any, do not exceed prescribed Education and Science if he has sanctioned the limits. position of temporary class teacher for the school Under the terms of the higher education grants year 2004-05, to be effective from 1 September schemes, mature students are categorised as 449 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 450 either independent mature students or mature With regard to the concern about the student’s students dependent on parents. An independent eligibility for reasonable accommodations in cer- mature student is defined to mean a mature tificate examinations, RACE, I assume that he student who was not ordinarily resident at home will be sitting the junior certificate examinations with his or her parents from the October preced- in June 2006. Schools may apply to the State ing his or her entry to an approved course. Inde- Examinations Commission for RACE regarding pendent mature students are assessed without those examinations not earlier than September reference to either their parents’ income or 2004 and not later than 31 December 2004. Full address. details are available in circular letter S40/94, para- When assessing the means of students, other graph 3.3, on the website of the State Examin- than independent mature students, the Acts spec- ations Commission. ify that the students’ means and those of their It is not necessary to supply work samples or parents or guardians must be below a prescribed psychological evidence in most applications for limit. This provision requires that parental RACE in the junior certificate examinations, see income be taken into account irrespective of the circular letter S70/00, final paragraph, SEC webs- individual circumstances in any case where the ite. Therefore, the fact that the student has not student is not an independent mature student. yet been reassessed at post-primary level by a NEPS psychologist has no adverse implications School Accommodation. for any RACE application that the school auth- 216. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Edu- orities may wish to make on his behalf. cation and Science if his attention has been drawn If it should be the case that a psychological to the problems facing a school (details supplied) assessment is required to support the application, in County Wexford now that its application for then the school should consult its NEPS psychol- temporary accommodation has been refused; the ogist in good time, so that priority can be given action the school can take when enrolment to the referral. increases in September 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17250/04] Schools Building Projects. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 218. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Edu- Dempsey): All applications for temporary accom- cation and Science if he will bring forward the modation have been considered by the school project regarding the extension of Presentation planning section of my Department. In the con- College, Carlow; and if he will make a statement text of the available funding, and the number of on the matter. [17256/04] applications for that funding, it was not possible Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. to approve all applications received, and only Dempsey): The large-scale building project for those with an absolute and demonstrated need the Presentation College, Carlow, is listed in for additional accommodation were approved. section 8 of the 2004 school building programme The need for additional accommodation at the which is published on my Department’s website school to which the Deputy refers will be con- at www.education.ie. This project is at stage 5, sidered in the context of a review which is being bills of quantities, of architectural planning. It has undertaken of all projects that did not proceed as been assigned a band 3 rating by my Department part of the 2004 school building programme, with in accordance with the published criteria for a view to including it as part of a multi-annual prioritising large-scale projects. school building programme from 2005, details of The programme is designed to give maximum which will be announced later in the year. amount of information to managers, boards of management, principals, parents and students and Psychological Service. to give assurance that the building programme is 217. Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Edu- being operated in an open and transparent cation and Science if he will take action in the manner. case of a person (details supplied) in County Tip- Indicative timescales have been included for perary who needs urgent assessment for dyslexia; large-scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. and if an assessment will be expedited. The budget announcement regarding multi- [17253/04] annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi-annual framework for the school building Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. programme, which in turn will give greater clarity Dempsey): It is a matter for the school auth- regarding projects that are not progressing to ten- orities, in consultation with the assigned psychol- der in this year’s programme, including Presen- ogist from the National Educational Psychologi- tation College, Carlow. I will make a further cal Service, NEPS, to determine the priority list announcement in that regard during the year. for individual psychological assessments. In this instance, it appears that the school felt that other Disadvantaged Status. assessment work was more urgent, as a referral has not been made to NEPS. However, the NEPS 219. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Edu- psychologist is available for consultation about cation and Science if a school (details supplied) the case and will monitor progress. in County Donegal can be included for disadvan- 451 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 452

[Ms Enright.] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. taged schools status in the disadvantaged schools Dempsey): Under present arrangements, my programme; and if he will make a statement on Department provides funding to meet the special the matter. [17258/04] equipment needs of pupils with disabilities for use while attending primary and post-primary Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. schools. Dempsey): Any decision to expand or extend any Schools can apply, through the special edu- of the initiatives aimed at tackling educational cation section of my Department for this support. disadvantage is being considered in the context of Supporting documentation should include, a detailed review of all such initiatives. This psychological assessment, occupational therapy review, which will have an impact on existing and physiotherapy reports, etc., and should be initiatives is nearing completion and I hope to made available to the school inspector when con- announce its outcome shortly. sidering the application. To date, no application has been received in Special Educational Needs. my Department on behalf of the children referred 220. Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for to by the Deputy. Education and Science the steps he intends to 223. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- take to ensure that a special needs assistant and cation and Science if additional resources can be resource teaching hours are sanctioned for a per- provided to a person (details supplied) in Dublin son (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he 11 either to help them at school or to allocate will make a statement on the matter. [17269/04] home tuition hours to assist them combat the Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. effect of dyslexia on their academic progress; and Dempsey): I can confirm that my Department has if he will make a statement on the matter. received an application for special education sup- [17273/04] port for the pupil referred to by the Deputy. This application is being considered at present and a Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. response will issue to the school authorities as Dempsey): I wish to inform the Deputy that my quickly as possible. Department has no record of receiving an appli- cation for supplementary teaching support for the School Accommodation. pupil in question. Children with dyslexia are generally catered for 221. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- on an integrated basis in ordinary primary schools cation and Science if sufficient resources will be where they can be supported by the learning sup- found within the 2004 budget to fund the pur- port teacher service or the resource teacher ser- chase of even one of the two small prefabricated vice. The Deputy may be interested to know that classroom buildings already sanctioned as being my Department is currently developing a necessary for the proper operation of a school weighted system of allocation of teaching support (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he will for schools to cater for pupils with special needs, make a statement on the matter. [17271/04] including those with dyslexia. This system, as part Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. of which an additional 350 teaching posts will be Dempsey): All applications for temporary accom- allocated, will involve two main elements: (a) modation have been considered by the school making a staffing allocation to schools based on planning section of my Department. In the con- a predicted incidence of pupils with special edu- text of the available funding and the number of cational needs; and (b) making individual allo- applications for that funding, it was not possible cations in the case of children with more acute to approve all applications received and only lower-prevalence special educational needs. those with an absolute and demonstrated need It is expected that the change to a weighted for additional accommodation were approved. system will bring with it a number of benefits. The need for additional accommodation at the The new system will: reduce the need for indi- school to which the Deputy refers will be con- vidualised educational psychological assessment; sidered in the context of a review which is being reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- undertaken of all projects that did not proceed as ment for additional resources for individual part of the 2004 school building programme with pupils; and give greater flexibility to schools, a view to including it as part of a multi-annual which will facilitate the development and imple- school building programme from 2005, details of mentation of improved systems and procedures which will be announced later in the year. in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low achievement and pupils with special educational needs. Special Educational Needs. Transitional arrangements for the introduction 222. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- of the weighted system are being developed at cation and Science if his Department can supply present in consultation with representative laptop computers and appropriate software to interests. As soon as those consultations have persons (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he been completed, the detailed arrangements will will make a statement on the matter. [17272/04] be set out in a circular to schools. 453 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 454

Home tuition is intended to provide education cational needs. Decisions regarding appointments for children with a significant medical condition to the Visiting Teacher service will be made when causing major disruption to their attendance at this assessment is completed. school or as an interim support for children with a significant special educational need pending the Residential Institutions Redress Scheme. provision of an appropriate school based edu- 227. Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Edu- cational service. cation and Science if he has a record of a person 224. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- (details supplied) in Dublin 1. [17289/04] cation and Science if a person (details supplied) Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. in Dublin 11 will continue to receive the same Dempsey): My Department maintains records on level of assistance in the academic year 2004/2005 former residents of some 59 industrial and as they are currently receiving; and if he will reformatory schools who were placed there by make a statement on the matter. [17274/04] way of a court hearing. However, many children were placed in these schools by alternative means Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. such as referral by State agencies or voluntary Dempsey): The pupil referred to by the Deputy is placements and, in such cases, my Department currently in receipt of 2.5 hours resource teaching generally does not hold any records in respect of support per week and in addition, has the services such children. of a full time special needs assistant. Officials at my Department have checked the My Department continues to review the exist- database of former residents using the details ing arrangements for the allocation of special supplied by the Deputy. However, without educational supports to primary schools. The further information, it is impossible to definitively basic purpose of the review is to ensure that each state whether or not my Department holds school has the level of resources required to cater records relating to this individual. for its pupils with special educational needs. In the circumstances, I would recommend that Resources will be retained in schools where there the former resident should make a written appli- are continuing special educational needs in cation under the terms of the Freedom of Infor- accordance with the Department’s circulars. mation Act 1997 to The Residential Institutions I am anxious to ensure that the support services Redress Unit, Department of Education and Sci- are properly targeted at the children who require ence, Athlone, County Westmeath, for access to them and that the substantially increased records concerning his period of residency in the resources which are being made available in the industrial school. The application form that special educational area have the desired effect should be used for making such applications of ensuring that all children assessed as having requests further detail to that supplied by the special needs receive the support they require. Deputy and the additional detail would enable 225. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- my Department to definitively determine if it cation and Science if he will examine the request holds records relating to the individual in of the parents of a person (details supplied) in question. Dublin 11 for additional resource assistance for their child; and if he will make a statement on the School Staffing. matter. [17275/04] 228. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will sanction with all Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. haste the urgently required resource position Dempsey): I can confirm that my Department has requested jointly by schools (details supplied) as received an application for special education sup- neither school can continue to function ports for the pupil referred to by the Deputy. The adequately without the resource post to which school in question has been requested to furnish both are entitled. [17295/04] additional documentation in support of the appli- cation. A decision will be conveyed to the school Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. as soon as the documentation has been received Dempsey): On 4 June my Department received and considered. correspondence from the schools about the intro- duction of the weighted model of resource allo- School Staffing. cation. A response will issue to all schools setting 226. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Edu- out the details of the weighted model to be cation and Science if the services of a visiting implemented in September. teacher for the deaf will be available in the school year 2004-05 in County Waterford; and if he will Teaching Qualifications. make a statement on the matter. [17288/04] 229. Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Edu- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. cation and Science the avenue open to a person Dempsey): My Department is currently assessing (details supplied) in County Sligo to secure a the role of the visiting teacher service in the con- work placement. [17301/04] text of the level and range of teacher supports Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. now being provided for children with special edu- Dempsey): The higher diploma in special edu- 455 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 456

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] Students pursuing full-time undergraduate cation needs provided by St. Angela’s College, courses of a minimum duration of two years in Sligo, is designed to meet the continuing pro- publicly funded third level institutions in other fessional development training needs of serving EU member States, including the UK, may be teachers. They must be employed to work with considered for maintenance grants only, subject pupils with special educational needs in special to the usual conditions. Grant assistance is not schools or special classes or as resource teachers available in respect of postgraduate courses out- in mainstream primary and post-primary schools side of Ireland. and other educational services. Under the terms of the schemes students who The programme is of one year’s duration. Time already hold an undergraduate degree are ineli- will be divided between the programme venue gible for funding in respect of further study at and teaching in a participant’s school and other undergraduate level. settings. The person referred to is a graduate. At To be eligible for the programme a post-pri- present they are completing a year’s training in mary teacher must be eligible to hold a perma- practice and appear not to be registered as a full- nent post in a second level school, must be nomi- time student. Therefore, they cannot be con- nated by the school authority or VEC that has sidered for grant assistance. been allocated special class posts, resource posts or resource hours and must spend a minimum of Schools Building Projects. 12 hours per week working with pupils who have special educational needs. 232. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Edu- The demand from serving teachers in schools cation and Science the reason for the delay of two for places on the programme is high. There are years in assessing an application for development no plans to extend beyond its current scope of and refurbishment of a school (details supplied) continuing professional development for serving in County Kildare; if he can investigate the fact teachers. In general priority is given to those that it appears his Department lost the plans for teachers who hold permanent posts in schools. the school; the reason the fees were paid to the There is no provision to facilitate applicants who design team prior to his Department accepting do not meet the eligibility criteria. the project. [17318/04] 233. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Edu- School Transport. cation and Science if design team fees are paid 230. Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Edu- by his Department prior to or subsequent to his cation and Science when catchment areas for Department accepting a project. [17319/04] school transport were reviewed; and if he will Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. consider population movement and carry out a Dempsey): I propose to take Questions Nos. 232 review. [17305/04] and 233 together. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. In December 2003 the school was offered \ Dempsey): For the purposes of post-primary edu- 350,000 under the small and rural primary cation provision the country is divided into catch- schools initiative. The scheme operates on a ment areas. Each area has a post-primary edu- devolved basis. It allows boards of management cation centre. to address accommodation and building priorities In the late 1960s the areas were drawn up for with a guaranteed amount of funding and control the free education scheme. The catchment the pace building works proceed. boundaries were determined following consul- On 30 January the board of management tation with local educational interests. It was informed my Department that it would not par- intended that certain primary schools would feed ticipate in the scheme. The project will progress exclusively into each centre. A relatively small in the traditional manner. number of primary schools are shared between Indicative timescales were included for large- two or more centres. scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. The My Department will revise catchment areas as budget announcement regarding multi-annual the need arises. It is normal practice to consult capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi- local educational interests where adjustments are annual framework for the schools building pro- being contemplated. gramme. This will allow me to be clearer about projects are do not progress to tender in this Higher Education Grants. year’s programme, including the school referred to. During the year I will make a further 231. Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Edu- announcement. cation and Science if a higher education grant will Fees are generally paid on the satisfactory com- be awarded to a person (details supplied) in pletion of a stage submission. County Donegal. [17311/04] 234. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Edu- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. cation and Science when progress will be made Dempsey): An approved course under my on an application for an extension to a school Department’s third level student support schemes (details supplied) in County Donegal. [17320/04] means a full-time undergraduate course of at least two year’s duration or a full-time postgradu- 280. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for ate course of at least one year’s duration pursued Education and Science about a school building in an approved institution. (details supplied) in County Donegal. [17523/04] 457 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 458

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): I propose to take Questions Nos. 234 Dempsey): Section 4 of the Act enables and 280 together. additional institutions that are identified as The large-scale building project is listed in reformatory schools, industrial schools, orphan- section 8 of the 2004 schools building programme. ages, children’s homes and special schools, in It is published on my Department’s website which children were placed and resident and in www.education.ie. It is at stages 4 or 5 or pre- respect of which a public body had a regulatory receipt of tender documents of architectural plan- or inspection function, to be added to the ning. My Department assigned it a band 4 rating Schedule. in accordance with the published criteria for A number of institutions were identified for prioritising large-scale projects. possible inclusion and I intend to bring the matter Indicative timescales were included for large- to Government shortly for its consideration. The scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. The institution named is under consideration. budget announcement regarding multi-annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi- Departmental Expenditure. annual framework for the schools building pro- gramme, which in turn will give greater clarity 236. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for regarding projects that are not progressing to ten- Education and Science the capital expenditure on der in this year’s programme, including the school primary schools for the years 1999 to 2003, inclus- in question. I will make a further announcement ive, per county. [17322/04] during the year. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): The details on capital expenditure are Residential Institutions Redress Scheme. provided in the following tabular statement. The 235. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Edu- expenditure relates to various projects under- cation and Science, further to Parliamentary taken at specific primary schools. Every primary Question No. 216 of 1 June, if an institution school received funding under the grant scheme (details supplied) in County Galway is one of the for minor works to national school properties in institutions identified for inclusion under section the amount of \3,809 per school and \12.70 per 4 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act pupil for each of the academic years during the 2002. [17321/04] same period.

Primary School

Counties Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure Expenditure 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

\\\\\

Carlow 525,229.18 341,341.60 462,366.97 2,199,301.15 1,863,042.60 Cavan 1,669,090.94 1,135,638.88 1,028,374.35 1,052,401.06 2,974,656.85 Clare 730,743.80 1,527,799.36 1,548,238.09 6,966,902.64 2,463,194.76 Cork 8,713,287.73 11,146,068.58 18,061,921.07 15,579,170.32 14,453,969.86 Donegal 1,767,943.06 2,438,452.46 4,537,696.95 7,727,446.45 2,876,907.18 Dublin 16,178,976.89 18,191,924.74 33,534,287.45 49,183,909.02 30,202,004.27 Galway 1,935,713.04 2,649,880.25 3,624,017.68 4,643,460.55 3,154,665.66 Kerry 2,404,089.09 1,136,716.20 1,103,079.88 1,969,200.40 1,747,780.92 Kildare 2,247,721.49 2,717,260.60 10,677,212.81 5,804,337.56 10,929,255.47 Kilkenny 3,121,838.07 1,042,532.04 1,646,380.11 4,247,791.09 3,763,250.82 Laois 265,361.14 475,607.44 395,922.83 1,495,431.68 1,388,418.38 Leitrim 344,565.07 88,839.54 368,222.55 952,108.88 614,960.16 Limerick 2,792,082.58 1,875,194.64 8,060,883.64 7,042,899.45 7,395,277.65 Longford 28,838.95 176,103.36 362,215.06 739,109.59 1,327,162.15 Louth 314,192.82 244,544.79 1,901,359.71 2,474,231.63 2,027,949.08 Mayo 1,170,478.73 3,051,482.71 2,670,336.60 5,313,285.04 4,372,072.81 Meath 2,003,341.15 3,347,385.14 4,626,609.51 4,013,041.99 3,106,337.91 Monaghan 1,109,384.31 721,328.73 920,618.39 2,687,800.78 1,757,487.06 Offaly 1,150,564.18 444,648.52 2,808,498.92 6,674,488.03 4,708,321.31 Roscommon 116,999.45 346,838.13 1,445,497.80 93,364.74 3,409,020.10 Sligo 587,075.88 1,280,193.73 1,407,134.74 1,832,137.62 2,465,697.62 Tipperary 1,847,572.37 845,603.17 2,163,678.23 3,634,818.09 3,922,979.03 Waterford 1,469,986.85 2,005,676.10 1,450,086.49 1,108,810.13 2,950,734.06 Westmeath 650,618.40 737,839.82 965,651.86 2,097,683.37 3,475,276.24 Wexford 1,536,720.13 830,553.21 1,663,644.91 2,731,988.93 1,825,517.70 Wicklow 3,260,136.70 3,090,157.92 3,215,220.92 6,066,849.83 8,546,062.86 459 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 460

School Enrolments. Higher Education Grants. 237. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for 240. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Edu- Education and Science the number of primary cation and Science if he shall cap PLC numbers schools that have an enrolment of under 12 at the level that pertained in 2002; if his attention pupils, 13 to 22 pupils and 23 to 40 pupils. was drawn to the concern it is causing to schools [17327/04] that offer the courses. [17330/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): The information requested is as Dempsey): In the current academic year the follows: enrolments on post-leaving certificate courses in certain schools and colleges have exceeded the Number of Schools 2002-2003 number of places approved by my Department. Teacher allocations for 2004-2005 and capitation Under 12 pupils 33 grants were allocated on the basis of the 13 to 22 pupils 132 approved number of places or the numbers 23 to 40 pupils 462 enrolled. My Department approved nearly 28,700 places for the 2003-2004 academic year. Officials from my Department met manage- Special Educational Needs. ment representatives in the sector and the Teachers’ Union of Ireland to hear their con- 238. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for cerns. They have also received submissions from Education and Science the educational facilities a number of VECs on their needs. available in County Westmeath to primary school My Department is considering appeals from age children who are autistic. [17328/04] the VECs, schools and colleges for the recognit- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. ion of the excess numbers enrolled for the pur- Dempsey): Children with autism have access to a poses of teacher allocations and grants. A range of special support services. To date 130 decision will be taken shortly in the light of the special classes dedicated to children with autism totality of demands for teaching resources across have been established in the primary sector. Each the system. class operates at a maximum pupil-teacher ratio of 6:1 and have the support of at least two special Schools Refurbishment. needs assistants. More classes are being estab- 241. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- lished on an ongoing basis in response to assessed cation and Science the reason children at a pri- needs. At present there are two special classes for mary school at Knockmore, County Mayo, must pupils with autism attached to schools in County do without a playground because a new, safe Westmeath. sewerage system is required. [17333/04] Children with special educational needs, Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. including autistic children, attending mainstream Dempsey): The management authority of the pri- schools are generally catered for by the support mary school did not apply for the works outlined. of a resource teacher and special needs assistant The grant scheme for minor works to national services. The level of support provided is deter- school properties is a devolved grant scheme that mined by the professionally assessed needs of a was introduced in 1997. The works required child. would appear to be appropriate for funding under While autistic children wait for a suitable edu- the scheme. Schools are not required to com- cational placement my Department may sanction municate with my Department about minor home tuition as an interim measure, if works under the scheme. appropriate. Special Educational Needs. National Educational Psychological Service. 242. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- 239. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for cation and Science the guarantee he can give to Education and Science about locating a school identified special needs pupils that they will psychological service in Mullingar, County receive support from suitably qualified teachers Westmeath. [17329/04] in special needs areas in second level schools, in Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. view of the fact that so many contracts are not Dempsey): Premises for the National Educational being renewed in September, including, Ennis Psychological Service regional office for the mid- community college. [17334/04] lands region are located in Mullingar and are Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. being fitted out. It will be a base for NEPS psy- Dempsey): My Department allocates resource chologists serving counties Westmeath and Long- posts and special needs assistant posts to second ford. It will also be the administrative head- level schools and vocational education commit- quarters for those counties as well as counties tees to cater for special needs pupils enrolled Laois and Offaly. I expect the office to be oper- therein. Applications are made to my Depart- ational in time for the commencement of the ment by the relevant school authority. Each 2004-2005 school year. 461 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 462 application is considered on the basis of the and a site of approximately three acres for a new assessed needs of the pupil involved and the nat- 16 classroom school. ure and level of the support provided is deter- These size guidelines are advisory and relate mined on the advice of the psychological service. solely to the provision of new school buildings. Ennis community college was allocated 4.35 Smaller sites are often considered, particularly for wholetime teacher equivalents and three whole- urban areas where sites are not always available time special needs assistants for the 2004-2005 or where the cost per acre is prohibitive. school year to help cater for students with special Design teams for schools building projects needs, including traveller and non-national work closely with the relevant local authorities students, attending the school. to ensure that sites are developed in a manner A further application for additional resources compatible with local authority planning for students with special needs attending Ennis requirements. community college has been received by my Department from County Clare VEC and the School Closures. application is now being considered. My Depart- 245. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- ment will notify the VEC of the decision as soon cation and Science the reason appropriate pro- as possible. visions were not put in place prior to Greendale With regard to the matter of suitably qualified community school being targeted for closure. teachers being appointed in the special needs [17337/04] area, the position is that such appointments are made by the vocational education committee con- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. cerned. Permanent wholetime teaching, tempor- Dempsey): The trustees of the school notified my ary wholetime teaching or regular part-time Department that a decision was taken to close it. teaching posts are filled by vocational education The timing of the closure has yet to be deter- committees following a public advertisement and mined. Given the pattern of falling enrolments at selection process. Teachers who meet the pre- the school, together with surplus capacity in the scribed minimum qualification for the advertised general area, my Department concurs with the post are eligible to be considered for recommendation. appointment. When a school closes my Department’s main role is to ensure that the best interests of the School Accommodation. pupils are looked after in the period up to the closure. Alternative provision must also be avail- 243. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- able to accommodate the pupils who would have cation and Science if meeting the increasing ordinarily attended Greendale community demand for all-Irish provision in the Lucan area school. will be met by expanding the general provision as the option being pursued by his Department on Gaelscoil an tSairse´alaigh appears to contravene School Transport. its guidelines on site density and usage. 246. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Edu- [17335/04] cation and Science when a final decision will be made on the impaired bus transport for children Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. in Maynooth attending a school (details supplied) Dempsey): Officials of my Department requested in County Kildare for the academic year com- a consultant architect to conduct a feasibility mencing in September. [17353/04] study on Gaelscoil Naomh Pa´draig, Lucan, to ascertain its development potential for the pro- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. vision of additional accommodation. The consult- Dempsey): A report was requested from Bus ant’s report confirmed that it can be extended to E´ ireann. The Deputy will be advised of the posi- facilitate additional pupil numbers. tion when it is received and assessed. My Department shall correspond with the patron of the existing gaelscoil on the matter. School Policy. 247. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Schools Building Guidelines. Education and Science about a school policy mat- 244. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- ter (details supplied). [17380/04] cation and Science the details of the guidelines on site density and usage for primary schools; and Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. the action that can be taken if breaches exist. Dempsey): Under the rules of my Department [17336/04] pupils in infant classes may have a school day that is one hour shorter than the length of the normal Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. school day. It is a matter for a school’s board of Dempsey): My Department seeks to purchase management to decide whether the concession sites ranging from 2.5 to three acres in size for should be applied. If pupils in infant classes are new school buildings for eight to 16 classroom being given a shorter day their parents should be schools. A new eight classroom school would gen- notified and invited to collect them at the time erally be designed with a site area of 2.5 acres of dismissal. 463 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 464

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] workers, due to receive payment under the In the event that parents cannot collect their benchmarking awards, that work in third level children on a particular day due to exceptional, colleges; and if his Department has provided unforeseen circumstances then the children must finances to the colleges that recognise the be supervised in school up to the time school ends additional cost involved. [17382/04] or until they are transferred into the care of a nominated adult. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): My Department has issued instruc- Schools that have notified parents of their pol- tions for payment of revised salary scales and the icy would be entitled to expect that parents would institutes of technology have been requested to comply with the stated policy. It is acknowledged furnish details of the costs involved. On receipt that particular circumstances can arise whereby each institute’s 2004 allocation will be revised to the implementation of the shorter school day for include the associated costs for the implemen- pupils in infant classes can cause difficulties for tation of the craftworkers and general operatives some parents. This can be especially so where, award. for instance, parents have other children in senior classes in the school who would not be finished The overall funding provided to the university until one hour after the infant classes have con- sector for 2004 includes provision for the imple- cluded. In such cases parents are required to mentation of the award. The management of undertake two return journeys within the space available resources is a matter for the third level of an hour if the school policy is strictly institutions. implemented. Difficulties may also arise due to the organisation of the school transport system Schools Building Projects. where children are only collected at the end of 250. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- the school day. cation and Science the action he has taken as a In such situations parents should contact the result of the undertaking given in Da´il E´ ireann board of management and explain the difficulties during the course of an Adjournment Debate on that they will encounter if the school policy is the use of prefab buildings at a school (details strictly implemented. My Department requests supplied) in Dublin 5; and when his Department schools to take a sympathetic approach to cases will allocate funds to the school. [17383/04] where the strict implementation of the policy would cause genuine difficulties for parents. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): My Department’s school planning Schools Building Projects. section has considered all the applications for temporary accommodation. Details of successful 248. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Edu- applicants are available on my Department’s cation and Science when the necessary funding website www.education.ie. will be made available for the refurbishment of a In the context of the available funding and the school (details supplied) in Dublin 7. [17381/04] number of applications for same, it was not poss- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. ible to approve all of the applications. Only appli- Dempsey): The large scale building project for cants with an absolute and demonstrated need for the school is listed in section 8 of the 2004 schools additional accommodation were approved. The building programme which is published on my application from the school was unsuccessful on Department’s website at www.education.ie. The this occasion because the provision of additional project is at stage 3, developed sketch scheme, of accommodation to meet shortfalls was given a architectural planning. My Department assigned higher priority than the replacement of existing it a band 1 rating in accordance with the pub- accommodation. lished criteria for prioritising large scale projects. An application form for grant aid for major It is planned to progress this project to capital improvement works has issued to the advanced architectural planning during 2004. school authority for completion. On receipt the school will be included in a review of all projects Indicative timescales have been included for that did not proceed as part of the 2004 schools large scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. building programme with a view to including The budget announcement regarding multi- them as part of a multi-annual building pro- annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt gramme from 2005 onwards. Later this year I a multi-annual framework for the schools build- expect to make a further announcement on the ing programme, which in turn will give greater matter. clarity regarding projects that are not progressing to tender in this year’s programme including the Special Educational Needs. school referred to by the Deputy. I will make a further announcement in that regard during the 251. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- year. cation and Science the progress made to establish a class for children in the autistic spectrum at a Benchmarking Awards. school (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [17384/04] 249. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. cation and Science about analogue payments to Dempsey): At present the school has two special 465 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 466 classes for children with Asperger’s syndrome. school has the level of resources required to cater My Department has no record of receiving an for its pupils with special educational needs. application from it for the establishment of I am anxious to ensure that the support services additional special classes for children in the autis- are properly targetted at the children who require tic spectrum. My officials will contact the school them. The sector has received a substantial to clarify the position. increase in resources. I want the funding to have the desired effect of ensuring that all children 252. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- cation and Science the plans he has for the future assessed as having special needs receive enough allocation of special needs assistants; and if they support. will be part of the weighted system proposed for 254. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- 2005 or continue to be allocated on the basis of cation and Science when his Department will assessment by individual children’s needs. make a decision on the applications for special [17385/04] needs resources from more than 4,000 children whose applications with psychological assess- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. ments were in his Department since before Sep- Dempsey): Special needs assistants may be tember 2003 and of the children whose appli- approved to support a pupil who has a significant cations were received since that date. [17387/04] medical need for such assistance, a significant impairment of physical or sensory function or Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. where their behaviour is such that they are a Dempsey): More than 5,000 applications for danger to themselves or other pupils. The criteria special education resources were received used for the assessment of the need for special between 15 February and 31 August 2003 and are needs assistant support is outlined in my Depart- being considered. Priority was given to cases ment’s circular 07/02. involving children starting school last September. My Department continues to review the exist- All of these cases were responded to at or before ing arrangements for the allocation of special the commencement of the current school year. educational supports to primary schools. The The balance of more than 4,000 applications basic purpose of the review is to ensure that each were reviewed by a dedicated team comprising school has the level of resources required to cater members of my Department’s inspectorate and for its pupils with special educational needs. the national educational psychological service. I am anxious to ensure that special education The applications are being further considered in support services are properly targetted at the chil- the context of the outcome of surveys of SER dren who require them. I also want the substan- provision conducted over the past year and the tially increased resources that have been made data submitted by schools as part of a nationwide available in this area to support all of the children census of SER provision. that have been assessed as requiring special The processing of applications is a complex and needs. time consuming operation. My Department will The proposed weighted system relates to the complete it as quickly as possible and my officials allocation of special education teaching support will respond to all applicant schools. Pending a only. response, schools are advised to refer to circular 253. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- 24/03 that was issued in September 2003. The cir- cation and Science if he will allow schools to cular contains practical advice on how to achieve retain their current number of special needs the most effective deployment of resources assistants until the new weighted system is intro- already allocated for special educational needs. duced in 2005. [17386/04] Teacher resources for each applicant school will be based on a new weighted system of allo- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. cation which I announced recently. The system, Dempsey): Special needs assistants may be as part of an additional allocation of 350 teaching approved to support a pupil who has a significant posts, will involve two main elements: making a medical need for such assistance, a significant staffing allocation to schools based on a predicted impairment of physical or sensory function or incidence of pupils with special educational where their behaviour is such that they are a needs; and making individual allocations in the danger to themselves or other pupils. The criteria case of children with more acute lower preva- used for the assessment of the need for special lence special needs. needs assistant support are outlined in my It is expected that the change to a weighted Department’s circular 07/02. Resources will be system will bring with it a number of benefits. retained in schools where there is a continuing The new system will reduce the need for individu- care need in accordance with the Department’s alised educational psychological assessment, circulars. reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- My Department continues to review the exist- ment for additional resources for individual ing arrangements for the allocation of special pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, educational supports to primary schools. The which will facilitate the development and imple- basic purpose of the review is to ensure that each mentation of improved systems and procedures 467 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 468

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] gramme. I will be able to be clearer about pro- in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low jects that do not progress to tender in this year’s achievement and pupils with special needs. programme, including the school in question. Transitional arrangements for the introduction During the year I shall make a further of the weighted system are being developed in announcement. consultation with representative interests. As soon as consultations are completed the detailed Special Educational Needs. arrangements for processing applications for 257. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- resources, including those for special needs assist- cation and Science if a special needs assistant will ants and those received after 31 August, will be be allocated to a person (details supplied) in set out in a circular and will be issued to schools. Dublin 10 whose application was first sent to his 255. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- Department in February 2003 with an additional cation and Science if his attention was drawn to report in December 2003; and if his attention was the insecurity felt by special needs assistants drawn to the fact that a special needs assistant is about their future employment; and his plans as essential for this person to participate in class in they affect special needs assistants for the school a non disruptive way. [17390/04] year 2004-2005 and from 2005 onwards. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. [17388/04] Dempsey): On 24 October 2003 my Department received an application for special educational Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. resources for the pupil. On 2 January further Dempsey): Special needs assistants may be documentation was received. approved to support a pupil who has a significant At present the school has the services of one medical need for such assistance, a significant full-time learning support teacher, one part-time impairment of physical or sensory function or resource teacher and four full-time special needs where their behaviour is such that they are a assistants. danger to themselves or other pupils. The criteria The position is that SER applications received used for the assessment of the need for special between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are needs assistant support is outlined in my Depart- being considered at present. In all, more than ment’s circular 07/02. 5,000 such applications were received. Priority My Department continues to review the exist- was given to cases involving children starting ing arrangements for the allocation of special school last September and all these cases were educational supports to primary schools. The responded to at or before the commencement of basic purpose of a review is to ensure that each the current school year. school has the level of resources required to cater The balance of more than 4,000 applications for its pupils with special educational needs. has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- Resources will be retained in schools where there ing members of my Department’s Inspectorate is a continuing care need in accordance with the and the national educational psychological ser- Department’s circulars. vice. These applications are being further con- I am anxious to ensure that special education sidered in the context of the outcome of surveys support services are properly targetted at the chil- of SER provision conducted over the past year dren who require them. The sector has received and the data submitted by schools as part of a a substantial increase in resources. I want to nationwide census of SER provision. ensure that the funding has the desired effect of The processing of the applications is a complex ensuring that all children assessed as having and time consuming operation. My Department special needs receive enough support. shall complete the process as quickly as possible and my officials will respond to all applicant Schools Building Projects. schools. Pending a response, schools are advised 256. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- to refer to circular 24/03 that was issued in Sep- cation and Science when he will provide funding tember 2003. The circular contains practical to build a promised extension to a school (details advice on how to achieve the most effective supplied) in County Tipperary. [17389/04] deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs in a school. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Teacher resources for each applicant school Dempsey): A large scale building project for the will be based on a new weighted system of allo- school is listed in section 9 of the 2004 schools cation that I announced recently. The system, as building programme. It is listed on my Depart- part of an additional allocation of 350 teaching ment’s website www.education.ie. The project is posts, will involve two main elements: making a at the early stages of architectural planning, staffing allocation to schools based on a predicted detailed plans and costs. It was assigned a band 3 incidence of pupils with special educational rating in accordance with the published criteria needs; and making individual allocations in the for prioritising large scale projects. case of children with more acute lower preva- The budget announcement regarding multi- lence special educational needs. annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt It is expected that the change to a weighted a multi-annual framework for the building pro- system will bring with it a number of benefits. 469 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 470

The new system will reduce the need for individu- I am anxious to ensure that special education alised educational psychological assessment, support services are properly targetted at the chil- reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- dren who require them. Resources for the sector ment for additional resources for individual was substantially increased. I want the resources pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, to have the desired effect of ensuring that all chil- which will facilitate the development and imple- dren assessed as having special needs receive mentation of improved systems and procedures enough support. in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low achievement and pupils with special educational School Transport. needs. 259. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Edu- Transitional arrangements for the introduction cation and Science if school transport will be pro- of the weighted system are being developed in vided to persons (details supplied) in County Car- consultation with representative interests. As low. [17392/04] soon as the consultations have been completed the detailed arrangements for processing appli- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. cations for resources, including those for special Dempsey): The family lives 1.4 miles from the needs assistants and those received after 31 service route and are considered to have a level August, will be set out in a circular that will be of service within my Department’s guidelines. As issued to schools. a rule primary school transport routes are planned so that, as far as possible, no eligible 258. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- child will have more than 1.5 miles to travel to a cation and Science if his attention was drawn to pick-up point. Pupils living off the main route of the fact that a school (details supplied) in Dublin a service are generally expected to make their 10 is due to lose three of its four special needs own way or to be brought to convenient pick-up assistants in September, despite its disadvantaged points along the main route. designation due to the delay in his Department’s Bus E´ ireann cannot extend the service as the sanctioning psychological assessments in the past proposed route is unsuitable for the vehicle year; and if the school will retain the resources its operating the service. pupils need. [17391/04] Medical Training. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 260. Ms F. O’Malley asked the Minister for Dempsey): The school receives a service from Education and Science if, in view of the fact that NEPS. My Department does not sanction a speci- 1 July is the last date in the CAO system for fied number of assessments to be carried out by change of mind slips to be considered, a clear the organisation in a school. It is a matter for dis- decision will be made on the future training of cussion between the school’s authorities and the medical doctors, having regard to the deadline, in assigned psychologist. regard to the basic degree that students sitting In this case a psychologist assigned to the their leaving certificate this year should opt for if schools conducted four psychological assessments they wish to pursue medicine as a career. during the current school year, in addition to con- [17393/04] sultation work. It was one more assessment than Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. had been planned for at the start of the year. It Dempsey): Students sitting the leaving certificate is the normal level of service that can be provided examination in 2004 and wishing to pursue medi- by NEPS for a school of its size and type. cine as a career can apply for undergraduate At present my Department allocates special medicine in 2004 in the normal manner through needs assistant support on the basis of the the CAO. Application will be processed and assessed care needs of individual pupils. Special offers made in the normal way. needs assistants may be approved to support a On 24 September 2003, together with my col- pupil who has a significant medical need for such league, the Minister for Health and Children, assistance, a significant impairment of physical or Deputy Martin, I announced details of the mem- sensory function or where their behaviour is such bership and terms of reference for a working that they are a danger to themselves or other group on undergraduate medical education and pupils. The criteria used for the assessment of the training. It was jointly established to make recom- need for special needs assistant support is out- mendations on the organisation and delivery of lined in my Department’s circular 07/02. high quality training for doctors here. Resources will be retained in schools where there The working group will examine and make is a continuing care need in accordance with recommendations on a range of aspects of medi- circulars. cal education and training in Ireland. It was asked My Department continues to review the exist- to consider and provide advice on issues arising ing arrangements for the allocation of special from the recent Higher Education Authority’s educational supports to primary schools. The report that recommended a move to all graduate basic purpose of the review is to ensure that each entry for medicine and other health science dis- school has the level of resources required to cater ciplines. I requested that the HEA commission for its pupils with special educational needs. the report on foot of a commitment in the pro- 471 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 472

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] context of available funding and the number of gramme for Government to address the issue of applications for same, it was not possible to the distortionary impact of these high points approve all applications. Only applicants with an courses on the points system. absolute and demonstrated need for additional The report recommends that students should accommodation were approved. Schools must undertake an undergraduate programme of their maximise their existing accommodation until my choice in any area before taking a decision to Department can provide additional facilities. enter medicine or one of the other health science 263. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- disciplines. The other programmes in question cation and Science if he will provide funding for are physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech a temporary classroom for a school (details and language therapy, dentistry, veterinary medi- supplied) in Naas, County Kildare, to cater for cine, pharmacy and radiography, all of which cur- rently require extremely high points for entry. the extra urgent need in September. [17429/04] The working group’s initial consideration of the detailed implementation issues that arise for Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. medical education will also inform my approach Dempsey): My Department’s school planning to the proposed later introduction of changes for section has considered all applications for tem- the other health disciplines. I expect to receive porary accommodation for 2004. A list of success- the working group’s recommendations later this ful applicants was published on my Department’s year. website www.education.ie. In the context of the available funding and the number of applications School Accommodation. for same, it was not possible to approve all appli- cations received. Only applicants with an absolute 261. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- and demonstrated need for additional accommo- cation and Science if he will provide funding to a dation were approved. The school’s application school (details supplied) in Clonlara, County was not successful on this occasion. It will be Clare, to address the urgent need for an extra required to maximise existing accommodation classroom for the school in September. until my Department can provide extra accom- [17427/04] modation. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): My Department’s school planning Educational Projects. section has considered all of the applications for 264. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for temporary accommodation. In the context of Education and Science if he intends to main- available funding and the number of applications stream the young mothers in education project received for same, it is not possible to approve all that operated under the auspices of Galway city applications received. Only applications with an partnership. [17430/04] absolute and demonstrated need for additional accommodation were approved. The school Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. referred to by the Deputy was not successful on Dempsey): My Department provides funding for this occasion. the educational element of four teenage parent Its accommodation needs will be considered in educational support projects in Galway, Limer- the context of a review that is being undertaken ick, Waterford and Tallaght, Dubin 24. Funding of all projects that did not proceed as part of the was committed to the projects up to 2005. 2004 schools building programme. This will be The project to which the Deputy refers is part done with a view to including it as part of a multi- of the Galway teenage support project that is cur- annual schools building programme from 2005, rently supported by my Department. details of which will be announced later in the year. School Staffing. 262. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- 265. Mr. O´ Fearghaı´l asked the Minister for cation and Science if his Department’s building Education and Science if a school (details unit has a policy of obliging schools that have a supplied) in County Kildare will receive an extra physical education hall and need an extra class- mainstream teacher for September 2004 under room to cater for numbers in September to use the teacher support pilot scheme. [17431/04] the hall as a classroom; his views on the hall as a Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. classroom; his views on whether children will lose Dempsey): A detailed review of all such initiat- the opportunity to have physical exercise at ives is near completion. I hope to announce the school. [17428/04] outcome shortly. Any decision to extend the pilot project will depend on the review’s findings. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): Recently the school planning section 266. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Edu- completed its assessment of applications for tem- cation and Science if his Department is prepared porary accommodation to be provided in 2004. A to sanction the necessary finance to appoint a list of successful applicants was published on my resource teacher for children in a school (details Department’s website www.education.ie. In the supplied). [17440/04] 473 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 474

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): My Department has received an Dempsey): I propose to take Questions Nos. 269 application for the establishment of an autistic and 270 together. class in the school referred to by the Deputy. A large scale building project for Rathcormac Assessment reports in respect of potential pupils national school is listed in section 8 of the 2004 were received in my Department on 14 June and schools building programme. It is published on these have been referred to the national edu- my Department’s website www.education.ie.My cational psychological service for recommend- Department assigned it a band 1 in accordance ation. A decision will be conveyed to the school with the published criteria for prioritising large as soon as a recommendation has been received scale projects. It was planned to progress the pro- from NEPS. Meanwhile, my officials are continu- ject to advanced architectural planning during ing to liaise with the school on an ongoing basis 2004. concerning the application. Recently circumstances changed with staff changes and the possible impact of the proposed Teaching Qualifications. housing developments in the area emerged. My Department’s school planning section is con- 267. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- ducting a full review of the brief for the proposed cation and Science the criteria that exists to allow project. Full account will be taken of devel- teachers who have qualified in Spain to teach a opments and decisions will be taken on the poss- second subject at second level here in view of the ible need for a new site. The review will be con- fact that in the Spanish five year system a second ducted over the summer as part of an overall subject is dropped after second year. [17448/04] review of projects on the schools building pro- gramme that have not yet gone to construction. 268. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Edu- Indicative timescales were included in the pro- cation and Science if there are any barriers gramme for large scale projects proceeding to preventing Spanish and other EU citizens from tender in 2004. The budget announcement finding employment as second level teachers regarding multi-annual capital envelopes will assuming they have qualified in their home coun- enable me to adopt a multi-annual framework for try; and the measures that can be taken to rectify the schools building programme. This will give these. [17449/04] greater clarity on projects that are not pro- gressing to tender in this year’s programme, Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. including this school. I will make a further Dempsey): I propose to take Questions Nos. 267 announcement on the matter during the year. and 268 together. To be eligible for appointment to a teaching 271. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Edu- position at second level an applicant must hold a cation and Science when work shall commence suitable qualification at degree level in the sub- on a new school (details supplied) in Buttevant, ject or subjects of the post as advertised. Nor- County Cork. [17452/04] mally, they must also hold an acceptable training- in-teaching qualification. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): When publishing the 2004 schools A general system, for the mutual recognition building programme I outlined that my strategy of professional qualifications awarded within the will be rounded in capital investment based on EU, provides for the recognition of higher dip- multi-annual allocations. My officials are loma awards on completion of professional edu- reviewing all projects that were not authorised to cation and training of at least three years dur- proceed to construction as part of the 2004 ation. It applies to citizens of member states who schools building programme. This is being done seek recognition for the purpose of teaching here. with a view to including them as part of a multi- If the Deputy is aware of a case perhaps he annual schools building programme from 2005. I would ask the individual to contact my Depart- expect to make further announcements on the ment’s post-primary teachers qualifications unit matter in the course of the year. The school’s in Athlone. He or she will receive information application will be considered. about second level teaching. 272. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Edu- cation and Science when work will commence on Schools Building Projects. an extension at a school (details supplied) in Kil- 269. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Edu- worth, County Cork. [17453/04] cation and Science the reason the Office of Public Works did not purchase a site for a new school at Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Rathcormac, County Cork, as requested by the Dempsey): The large scale building project for board of management. [17450/04] the school is listed in section 8 of the 2004 schools building programme. It is published on my 270. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Edu- Department’s website www.education.ie. The cation and Science if the refurbishment or exten- project is at stage 1, site suitability, briefing and sion of a school (details supplied) in County Cork site report, of architectural planning. It was will commence soon. [17451/04] assigned a band 1 rating in accordance with the 475 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 476

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] There is provision under the terms of the published criteria for prioritising large scale pro- scheme for candidates who are re-entering as jects. During 2004 I plan to progress the project mature students, following a break in study of at to advanced architectural planning. least one year, to pursue or complete an Indicative timescales were included for large approved course for the first time. Such candi- scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. The dates may be assessed under the terms of the budget announcement of multi-annual capital scheme appropriate to the year in which they re- envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi-annual enter. Under the provision candidates who were framework for the schools building programme. not independent mature students at the time of It will give greater clarity on projects that will not entry to an approved course may be reclassified reach tender in this year’s programme, including as independent for the purpose of completing a St. Martin’s senior national school, Kilworth. I course or commencing as subsequent course such will make a further announcement during the as a postgraduate course. year. Similar provisions apply under the terms of the other student maintenance grant schemes. Higher Education Grants. 273. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Edu- School Staffing. cation and Science the reason applications for 274. Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Edu- higher education grants insist that persons who cation and Science if, in respect of special needs are 21 years of age or more, who are independent assistants in primary schools, the measures he in their own right and wish to return to education proposes to offer security of employment to these are classified as dependants of their parents for workers; if he will allocate a quota of special the purpose of assessment for a higher edu- needs assistants to each school to secure conti- cation. [17485/04] nuity; and when he will announce his plans to reform the conditions and position of special Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. needs assistants and the system of allocation. Dempsey): The higher education grant schemes [17487/04] operate under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts 1968 to 1992, inclusive. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. They define a mature student as: Dempsey): Special needs assistants may be approved to support a pupil who has a significant Of not less than 23 years of age, or such medical need for such assistance, a significant other age as may stand specified for the time impairment of physical or sensory function or being in regulations made by the Minister with where their behaviour is such that they are a the consent of the Minister for Finance, who danger to themselves or other pupils. The criteria have secured places in approved institutions and procedures for the allocation of special needs and have reached that age on the 1st day of assistant support are outlined in my Depart- January, or such other date as may be pre- ment’s circular 07/02. It may be accessed on my scribed from time to time by the Minister with Department’s website under the heading children the consent of the Minister for Finance, in the with special needs. year of entry to such institutions. Since 1998 the number of special needs assist- The Acts further provide, inter alia, for the mak- ants in primary schools has grown from about 300 ing of grants to mature students whose means and to in excess of 5,500 full and part-time posts. My those of their parents, where the mature students Department is anxious to ensure that each school are dependent on their parents, and the means of has the level of resources required to cater for its their spouses, if any, do not exceed prescribed pupils with special educational needs. Resources limits. will be retained in schools where there is a con- Under the terms of the schemes mature tinuing care need in accordance with circular students are categorised as either independent 07/02. mature students or mature students dependent on parents. An independent mature student is Higher Education Courses. defined to mean a mature student who was not 275. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Edu- ordinarily resident at home with his or her par- cation and Science if a person (details supplied) ents from the October preceding their entry to an in County Wexford can be accepted by the CAO approved course. Independent mature students in order to take up a place offered to them due are assessed without reference to either their par- to their special circumstances. [17493/04] ents’ income or address. When assessing the means of students, other Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. than independent mature students, the Acts spec- Dempsey): Mature students seeking places on ify that the students’ means and those of their undergraduate courses at Waterford Institute of parents or guardians must be below a prescribed Technology must apply initially via the central limit. The provision requires that parental income applications office. The office is a company lim- be taken into account irrespective of the individ- ited by guarantee. It was established in 1976 to ual circumstances in any case where the student accept applications for admission to undergrad- is not an independent mature student. uate courses in higher education institutions in 477 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 478

Ireland. It is an organisation representative of reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- higher education interests and is controlled ment for additional resources for individual entirely and jointly by them. I have no function pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, in the operation of the CAO. which will facilitate the development and imple- The institutes of technology are statutory bod- mentation of improved systems and procedures ies established under the Regional Technical Col- in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low leges Acts and Dublin Institute of Technology achievement and pupils with special educational Acts 1992 to 1999, inclusive. Under these Acts needs. the governance and day-to-day activities of the Transitional arrangements for the introduction institutes, including student admissions, are a of the weighted system are being developed at matter for the institutes concerned. present in consultation with representative interests. As soon as those consultations have School Staffing. been completed, the detailed arrangements for 276. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Edu- processing applications for resources, including cation and Science if his Department has received those for special needs assistants and those a petition from the parents at a school (details received after 31 August last, including the appli- supplied) in Dublin 7 detailing the urgent cations from the school in question, will be set requirement for special needs resource teachers; out in a circular to be issued to schools before the and if he will give the matter immediate attention end of the current school year. and allocate a special needs resource teacher. [17495/04] Teacher Training Requirements. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 277. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- Dempsey): My Department has no record of cation and Science the provision made by the receiving a petition. Applications for special edu- authorities at the Froebel College, Blackrock, to cation resources were submitted. More than 5,000 improve their competence in oral Irish; the entry SER applications were received between 15 Feb- requirements of the college in this area of study; ruary and 31 August 2003 and are being con- and if it is possible for students to progress to sidered. Priority was given to cases involving chil- their final year of study without having passed dren starting school last September. All of them their oral Irish examination. [17496/04] were responded to at or before the commence- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. ment of the current school year. Dempsey): My Department specifies the mini- The balance of more than 4,000 applications mum academic requirements for entry to primary has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- teacher training courses provided in the colleges ing members of my Department’s inspectorate of education, including the Froebel College of and the national educational psychological ser- Education. As part of these requirements, all can- vice. The applications will be further considered didates, including school leavers, mature students in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER and university graduates, must have a minimum provision conducted over the past year and the of a grade C in higher level in Irish in the leaving data submitted by schools as part of a nationwide certificate or an approved equivalent. The census of SER provision. requirement embodies both the written and oral The processing of the applications is a complex element of a student’s proficiency in Irish. My and time-consuming operation. My Department Department considers it to be the minimum stan- will complete the process as quickly as possible dard in Irish necessary for students entering a and my officials will respond to all applicant teacher training course that will equip them to schools. Pending a response, schools are advised teach Irish to pupils at all levels in primary to refer to circular 24/03 that was issued in Sep- schools. tember 2003. The circular contains practical The selection process for school leavers is advice on how to achieve the most effective through the CAO system. Mature students and deployment of resources already allocated for graduates who satisfy the minimum academic special educational needs within the school. requirements are required to undergo an inter- Teacher resources for applicant schools will be view and oral Irish test. All students are also based on a new weighted system of allocation that required to attend a three week course in the I announced recently. It is part of an additional Gaeltacht at the end of their first year in training. allocation of 350 teaching posts and will involve In addition, students are subject to an oral Irish two elements, making a staffing allocation to test at the end of their first year of training, a pass schools based on a predicted incidence of pupils in which is necessary in order to continue to the with special educational needs and making indi- second year of the course. Students who fail the vidual allocations in the case of children with test may, at the discretion of the college, be more acute lower prevalence special educational allowed to repeat it following attendance at a needs. Gaeltacht course. It is expected that the change to a weighted system will bring with it a number of benefits. School Staffing. The new system will reduce the need for individu- alised educational psychological assessment, 278. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Edu- 479 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 480

[Mr. Stagg.] Pending a response, schools are advised to refer cation and Science if his attention has been drawn to circular 24/03 that was issued last September. to the fact that pupils in a school (details It contains practical advice on how to achieve the supplied) in County Kildare, comprising junior most effective deployment of resources already and senior infants classes, will be taught in the allocated for special educational needs within a same classroom with the same teacher due to the school. school having an insufficient number of teachers; Teacher resources for each applicant school and if he will increase the number of teaching will be based on a new weighted system of allo- staff for the school. [17497/04] cation that I announced recently. The system, as part of an additional allocation of 350 teaching Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. posts, will involve two main elements: making a Dempsey): The staffing of a primary school is staffing allocation to schools based on a predicted determined by reference to the enrolment of the incidence of pupils with special educational school on 30 September of the previous school needs; and making individual allocations in the year. The number of mainstream posts sanctioned case of children with more acute lower-preva- is determined by reference to a staffing schedule lence special educational needs. and is finalised for a particular year following dis- It is expected that the change to a weighted cussions with the education partners. system will bring a number of benefits. The new The mainstream staffing of the school for the system will reduce the need for individualised current school year is a principal and nine main- educational psychological assessment, reduce the stream class teachers based on an enrolment of volume of applications to my Department for 242 pupils on 30 September 2002. The staffing additional resources for individual pupils and give level will remain the same for the school year greater flexibility to schools, which will facilitate 2004-05 and is based on an enrolment of 245 the development and implementation of pupils on 30 September 2003. The current enrol- improved systems and procedures in schools to ment figure is significantly less than the required meet the needs of pupils with low achievement minimum figure for an appointment of a tenth and pupils with special educational needs. mainstream class teacher. Transitional arrangements for the introduction It is open to a board of management to submit of the weighted system are being developed at an appeal under certain criteria to an indepen- present in consultation with representative dent appeals board established to adjudicate on interests. As soon as those consultations have mainstream staffing allocations in primary been completed, the detailed arrangements for schools. Recently details of the criteria and appli- processing applications for resources, including cation date for appeal were issued to all primary those for special needs assistants and those schools. received after 31 August last will be set out in a circular to be issued to schools shortly. Special Educational Needs. 279. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Question No. 280 answered with Question Education and Science about a special needs No. 234. assistant application for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal. [17522/04] Literacy Tests. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 281. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- Dempsey): Recently my Department received an cation and Science if every school received sup- application for special needs assistant and port for the purchase of appropriate age related resource teaching support for the pupil. literacy tests to assist teachers in their work, as More than 5,000 SER applications were promised in the joint programme; and if not, his received between 15 February and 31 August intention to remedy the situation. [17524/04] 2003 and they are being considered. Priority was Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. given to cases involving children starting school Dempsey): The joint programme for Government last September. All of these cases were undertook to provide financial support to schools responded to at or before the commencement of for the purpose of age related literacy tests to the current school year. enable teachers to measure the progress of The balance of more than 4,000 applications students and to use the results of the tests to has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- inform their subsequent planning and teaching. ing members of my Department’s inspectorate Following the introduction of the revised cur- and NEPS. The applications are being further riculum to schools in 1999, a number of changes considered in the context of the outcome of sur- were made to the English curriculum in primary veys on SER provision conducted over the past schools. As a result test providers revised their year and the data submitted by schools as part of standardised reading literacy tests in English. a nationwide census of SER provision. One of the test publishers has completed the test The processing of the applications is a complex revision and another will publish a new reading and time-consuming operation. My Department literacy test in February 2006. I propose to con- shall complete the process as quickly as and my sider the question of supporting schools to pur- officials will respond to all applicant schools. chase the tests when all of the revised standard- 481 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 482 ised reading literacy tests in English become mary schools and the proposals for expanding available. these measures over the coming years; the pilot programmes that are being wound down; and the Student Support Schemes. reason they have been found to be unworthy of 282. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- continuation. [17526/04] cation and Science the position in regard to the Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. implementation of the Donagh O’Malley scholar- Dempsey): The expansion of initiatives aimed at ships for students from areas of significant disad- tackling educational disadvantage must be con- vantage, promised in the joint programme for sidered in the context of a detailed review of Government; and the amount of money pro- them. A review is nearing completion and I hope posed, the areas to be covered and the timescale to announce its outcome shortly. involved. [17525/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Computerisaton Programme. Dempsey): In May 2003 I announced a package 284. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- \ of measures costing 42 million aimed at improv- cation and Science the way in which the pupil- ing the student support systems, with particular computer ratio in primary and secondary schools emphasis on providing support to those from compares with that in each of the other OECD socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. and EU countries. [17533/04] The latest figures indicate that the number of people who benefited from the special rate of Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. maintenance, or top-up grants, in the academic Dempsey): Since the inception of my Depart- year 2003-2004 is in the region of 10,700. ment’s schools IT2000 initiative 1998 to 2000, In addition the Government, with assistance inclusive, and the Blueprint for the Future of ICT from the European Social Fund, provides funding in Irish Education initiative 2001 to 2003, inclus- through my Department for a number of initiat- ive, significant progress has been made in our pri- ives to increase participation in further and mary and post-primary schools in the develop- higher education from students from socio-econ- ment and use of ICY infrastructure. A census of omically disadvantaged backgrounds. ICT in schools was carried out by the national Last year I also announced the establishment centre for technology in education in 2002 and of the national office for equity of access to outlined the pupil-computer ratio as follows: higher education within the Higher Education Authority, proposed by the action group on 1998 2000 2002 access to third level education. The national office is fully operational since February 2004. Its Primary 37 18.1 11.8 remit is to facilitate inclusive and equitable access Post-primary 16 13 9.4 to higher education from under represented Special Schools 9 6.6 3.9. groups and promote improved participation by students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, students with a disability and An EU wide survey conducted in early 2002 mature second chance students. showed that despite the progress made Irish It must recommend a possible national strategy schools were slightly below the European average to me that will achieve a significant improvement in terms of pupil-computer ratio as follows: in equity of access to higher education. It must undertake a review of the effectiveness of existing Ratio measures and programmes. It will suggest, if necessary, a more structured approach to the Denmark 3.2 allocation of funding for future years that will Finland 6.3 result in measurable improvements in line with UK 6.9 our overall objective of promoting greater equity Luxembourg 7 of access to third level education, through Sweden 7.4 improved targeting of student support access Netherlands 7.9 initiatives. The implementation of the Government’s com- Austria 8.1 mitment to introduce the Donagh O’Malley Spain 8.2 scholarships can be addressed when the outcome France 8.3 of the review becomes available. It should inform Belgium 9 decisions into how best the commitment can be EU Average 9.3 progressed. Ireland 10.3 Greece 12.5 Educational Disadvantage. Portugal 12.7 283. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- Germany 13.5 cation and Science the position regarding the Italy 14.9. schemes in place to target disadvantage in pri- 483 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 484

Electronic Communications. review under that initiative every three years; and if not, the areas of expenditure where the review 285. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- has not taken place. [17576/04] cation and Science if all public services provided by his Department that are capable of electronic 287. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- delivery are available electronically through a sin- cation and Science the areas of expenditure of his gle point of contact, as was promised in the joint Department in respect of which an expenditure programme; and if not, if he will make a state- review under the expenditure review initiative ment on each service not yet provided. has not yet been completed and published. [17561/04] [17591/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): The electronic delivery of services Dempsey): I propose to take Questions Nos. 286 through a single point of contact is being pro- and 287 together. gressed through the framework of the public ser- The initial target of the expenditure review vices broker and the Reach agency is charged initiative was to review all expenditure pro- with responsibility for its design and grammes over a three year period. A review of development. the process by the Department of Finance- I intend to launch the first stage of the public Expenditure Review Central Steering Committee services broker at the end of this month. This will in 2000 and 2001 found that the target had been be a public website and will be known as reachser- over ambitious and that a more focused approach vices.ie. It will be designed to act as a single point to the selection of review topics was required. of access to a range of services offered by the The view was supported by a Comptroller and Irish public service. Initially the website will pro- Auditor General value for money study of the vide access in the form of links to forms or online ERI in 2001. He proposed that a more realistic services provided on other websites. It will pro- target should be set that took into account the vide access to information and application forms level of evaluative capacity in Departments for up to 900 services at the time of its launch. generally. The range of services accessible through the In June 2001 the Government decided, inter website will continue to be expanded until it pro- alia, that the Department of Finance and Depart- vides a comprehensive index to the range of pub- ments and offices should compile and agree a licly provided services in Ireland. work plan of review topics based on specific In parallel, Reach is working to provide essen- selection criteria. In other words, that pro- tial online capabilities for the benefit of cus- grammes selected for review should reflect tomers and public service providers. These capa- Government priorities or strategic result areas bilities will include an integration framework that and involve a significant level of expenditure. In will allow for the secure electronic transmission May 2002 the Government approved a schedule and exchange of service requests. My Depart- of expenditure review topics proposed for the ment is examining the possible use of the frame- first year of the next three year planning horizon, work for automating the receipt and matching of 2002 to 2004, inclusive, and noted the topics pro- death notices from the general registrar’s office, posed for 2003 and 2004. and the location and validation of personal public In April 2003 the ERCSC, in consultation with service numbers in conjunction with the Depart- the Department of Finance, asked Departments ment of Social and Family Affairs. and offices to update their expenditure review Reach is also developing facilities for the regis- plans. The committee emphasised the Govern- tration and authentication of customer identity, ment’s selection criteria and advised that Depart- address validation, the pre-population of forms ments and offices should select a small number of with previously registered data and an electronic programmes or areas involving major policy payments facility. Another important facility is issues or significant levels of expenditure. On foot the capability for developing and hosting online of the process my Department drew up revised interactive forms that will be offered to Depart- expenditure review plans in consultation with the ments and agencies that are developing online Department of Finance. services for their customers. Since the inception of the ERI in 1997 my Reach is in discussion with a number of Department has completed expenditure reviews Departments and agencies, including my Depart- on the following topics: primary education, Instit- ment, about a range of online services that will iuid Teangeolaı´ochta E´ ireann and the home- be launched with the next phase of the develop- school-community liaison scheme. ment of reachservices.ie in the autumn. As part of the ERI’s 2002-2004 phase a number of reviews are nearing completion. They are as Expenditure Reviews. follows: supply panel for primary teaching that 286. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- was finished and quality assessed according to cation and Science if his Department has ERI procedures; operation of the education achieved the target, set out in the initiation of the centres that are being assessed; and youth expenditure review initiative in 1997, that all encounter projects that is due for completion Government expenditure be subject to a formal before the end of the year. 485 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 486

In response to the above mentioned request of of the scheme a needy pupil is a pupil from a April 2003 to update our reviews plans, a number family where there is genuine hardship because of topics were considered. The following reviews of unemployment, prolonged illness of a parent, were agreed and are scheduled for completion in large family size with inadequate means, single the current phase of the ERI: first and second parenthood, or other family circumstances, such level schools building programmes; schools ICT as substance abuse, that would indicate a similar programmes; expenditure on guidance services; degree of financial hardship. and ICT undergraduate skills programmes and Principal teachers administer the book grant incareer development. schemes in schools in a flexible way under the terms of the schemes based on their knowledge School Staffing. of particular circumstances in individual cases. 288. Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Edu- In 1993 my Department received a consultancy cation and Science the number of students report that dealt with the factors that contribute enrolled in a college (details supplied) in Dublin to the cost of school textbooks. Its main con- 22 in September 2003; the number of teachers clusion was that book rental schemes are the most who were employed by the college on that date; practical way of limiting cost of school books to and the number of teachers who were employed parents. Copies of the report were sent to all in roles as remedial or learning support schools. It contains a number of useful sugges- teachers. [17608/04] tions, including a code of good practice for suc- cessful operation of book rental schemes. My Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Department endorses the recommendations and Dempsey): The post-primary school operates urges school authorities to put in place book under the auspices of County Dublin Vocational rental schemes to the greatest extent possible. Educational Committee. The enrolment of the School authorities were advised that books school on 30 September 2003 was 352 pupils. should be changed only to the extent that is My Department approves an annual teacher absolutely necessary. Syllabus planners are con- allocation for each VEC based on the number of scious of the need to avoid over frequent changes, schools and the enrolment in the schools on 30 primarily in order to minimise increases in the September of the previous year. It is a matter for cost burden for parents. Textbooks must be the VEC’s chief executive officer to allocate changed periodically to enable teachers to keep teaching resources and arrange for appointment their own and their students’ work educationally of teachers to its schools. stimulating and to ensure that content and meth- odology are kept up to date. Fostaı´ocht Scoileanna. I am satisfied that the problem of disposal of 289. D’fhiafraigh Mr. O’Shea den Aire Oidea- unwanted textbooks is minimised because many chais agus Eolaı´ochta mar gheall ar CP 226 den schools operate book rental schemes and second- 11 Bealtaine, an nde´anfaidh se´ athbhreithniu´ ar hand book exchanges. Locally operated schemes an gceist sin o´ thaobh an eolais bhreise ata´ curtha are the appropriate and efficient way to address ar fa´il agus an nde´anfaidh se´ ra´iteas ina leith. the issue. There are no proposals to introduce a [17658/04] pilot scheme. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. School Premises. Dempsey): Nı´l aon athru´ de´anta sna rialacha´in a rialaı´onn ceapacha´n agus coinnea´il mu´ inteoirı´ i 291. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Edu- mbunscoileanna i leith na scoilbhliana 2004-05. cation and Science if discussions have taken place Cuirfear ceist na Scoileanna Gaeltachta san a´ire- with the trustees of a school (details supplied) in amh nuair a bheidh na rialacha´in a´ aithbhreithniu´ Dublin 11 on the uses that its building and sur- i leith na scoilbhliana 2005-2006. rounding play area will be put to when the school closes. [17660/04] School Books. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 290. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- Dempsey): The future use of the school premises cation and Science if his Department encouraged is a matter for the De La Salle Provincialate. schools to introduce a book rental scheme as a They are trustees and owners of the school means of reducing the extortionate cost of school buildings. books for parents in view of the fact that many Special Educational Needs. families have multiple children attending school at the same time; and if his Department will intro- 292. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Edu- duce a pilot scheme in the area to encourage cation and Science if a person (details supplied) schools to recycle books. [17659/04] in County Kildare will continue to receive one to one teaching. [17661/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): My Department operates a grant Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. scheme towards the cost of providing school text- Dempsey): The person attends a school for physi- books for pupils from low income families in cally disabled children. The current recom- schools at first and second level. For the purposes mended pupil-teacher ratio for this disability cat- 487 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 488

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. egory is 10:1. At present the class operates at a Dempsey): When publishing the 2004 school ratio of 5:1. My officials are liaising with my building programme, I outlined that my strategy Department’s inspectorate and the school con- going forward will be rounded in capital invest- cerning the pupil’s specific educational needs. ment based on multiannual allocations. My officials are reviewing all projects which were not School Transport. authorised to proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme, with a view 293. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Edu- to including them as part of a multiannual school cation and Science if, in respect of a school, building programme from 2005 and I expect to be details supplied, in County Kildare, the free bus in a position to make further announcements on travel scheme can be extended to persons living this matter in the course of the year. The appli- within a mile’s radius of the school they are cation from the school referred to by the Deputy attending; and if he will make a statement on the will be considered in this regard. matter. [17662/04] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Special Educational Needs. Dempsey): To be eligible for school transport 296. Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Edu- under the terms of the primary school transport cation and Science if a resource teacher will be scheme a child must be living not less than two assigned for a person, details supplied, in County miles from the nearest suitable school. Cork. [17665/04] Colleges Refurbishment. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): I can confirm that my Department has 294. Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Edu- received an application for resource teaching sup- cation and Science if his attention has been drawn port for the pupil referred to by the Deputy. The to the fact that classes had to be suspended on a position is that applications for special edu- number of occasions in a college, details supplied, cational resources, SER, received between 15 in County Limerick during the past winter due to February and 31 August 2003, including the breakdowns of the heating system; if funds will application in question are being considered at be provided in 2004 to upgrade facilities at the present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications college; and if he will make a statement on the were received. Priority was given to cases involv- matter. [17663/04] ing children starting school last September and all Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. these cases were responded to at or before the Dempsey): I understand that there were difficult- commencement of the current school year. ies with the heating system last winter at the cam- The balance of more than 4,000 applications pus referred to by the Deputy, but my Depart- has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- ment has been informed by the institute that ing members of my Department’s inspectorate these have been resolved. The institute concerned and the national educational psychological ser- has also informed my Department that it has no vice, NEPS. These applications are being further record of any classes being cancelled in that considered in the context of the outcome of sur- context. veys of SER provision conducted over the past The Deputy may be aware that I announced a year and the data submitted by schools as part of pause in relation to all capital developments in a nationwide census of SER provision. the third level sector in November 2002 pending The processing of the applications is a complex a review of the entire set of demands in the sec- and time consuming operation. However, my tor. At my request the Higher Education Auth- Department is endeavouring to have this com- ority, HEA, undertook the review and a review pleted as quickly as possible and my officials will group was established. The group has now then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a presented its report to the HEA. I look forward response, schools are advised to refer to circular to receiving the report and recommendations 24-03, which issued in September 2003. This cir- from the authority. Decisions in respect of the cular contains practical advice on how to achieve capital investment programme for the third level the most effective deployment of resources sector, including any developments at the already allocated for special educational needs institute in Limerick referred to by the Deputy, within the school. In the case of teacher will be taken in the context of the capital envel- resources, the outcome for each applicant school ope of funds available to me. will be based on a new weighted system of allo- cation which I announced recently. This system, Schools Building Projects. as part of which an additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, will involve two main elements, 295. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- making a staffing allocation to schools based on cation and Science the status of the application a predicted incidence of pupils with special edu- for an extension to a school, details supplied, in cational needs and making individual allocations County Roscommon; and if he will make a state- in the case of children with more acute lower ment on the matter. [17664/04] prevalence special educational needs. 489 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 490

It is expected that the change to a weighted Department in accordance with the published cri- system will bring with it a number of benefits. teria for prioritising large scale projects. It is The new system will reduce the need for individu- planned to progress this project to advanced alised educational psychological assessment, architectural planning during 2004. reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- Indicative timescales have been included for ment for additional resources for individual large scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, The budget announcement regarding multiannual which will facilitate the development and imple- capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi- mentation of improved systems and procedures annual framework for the school building pro- in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low gramme, which in turn will give greater clarity achievement and pupils with special educational regarding projects that are not progressing to ten- needs. der in this year’s programme, including the school Transitional arrangements for the introduction in question. I will make a further announcement of the weighted system are being developed at in this regard during the year. present in consultation with representative interests. As soon as those consultations have Higher Education Grants. been completed, the detailed arrangements for 299. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- processing applications for resources, including cation and Science the income limits and main- those for special needs assistants and those tenance levels in the 2004-05 higher education received after 31 August last will be set out in a grant scheme. [17754/04] circular to be issued to schools shortly. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme. Dempsey): My Department reviews the student support maintenance grant schemes annually, 297. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Edu- having regard to eligibility-income limits and cation and Science if grant assistance will be maintenance grant rates and to take account of offered to a person, details supplied, in County policy decisions. This review is close to com- Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the pletion and the 2004-05 schemes will be published matter. [17672/04] in the near future and issued to the awarding Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. authorities. The full schemes, including details of Dempsey): On the basis of the information avail- the income limits and maintenance levels, will be able, the person in question does not qualify for available on my Department’s website, www.edu- the vocational training opportunities scheme, cation.ie. VTOS. The main objective of the VTOS is to give unemployed people educational and training Schools Building Projects. opportunities which will develop their employ- 300. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Edu- ability. The scheme is confined to adults over 21 cation and Science when all outstanding instal- who are in receipt of unemployment assistance- lations and improvements will be carried out at a benefit, a one parent family payment, disability school, details supplied, in County Kilkenny; and allowance-benefit or signing for credits. One must if he will make a statement on the matter. be in receipt of one of these allowances for at [17755/04] least six months to join VTOS. Dependent spouses of people in these categories are also eli- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. gible. As the person in question does not meet Dempsey): The scope of the works referred to by any of these criteria, she is not eligible to partici- the Deputy would appear appropriate for con- pate in a VTOS programme. sideration under the summer works scheme. The The adult education organiser of any school did not apply for funding under the vocational education committee would be happy scheme for 2004. It is open to the management to advise her on course options available to her. authority to apply for key priority works required at the school as part of the 2005 scheme, details Schools Building Projects. of which will be announced later this year. 298. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education Schemes. Education and Science the stage of the new school development for a school, details supplied, 301. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Edu- in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on cation and Science when funding will be provided the matter. [17719/04] for the individual learning programme in respect of 60 part-time teaching hours plus secondment Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. of one permanent whole-time member of staff Dempsey): The new school building project for from the County Kilkenny VEC; and if he will the school referred to by the Deputy is listed in make a statement on the matter. [17756/04] section 8 of the 2004 school building programme which is published on my Department’s website Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. at www.education.ie. This project is at stage 1-2- Dempsey): The proposal for an individual learn- 3, detailed plans-costs, of architectural planning. ing programme for Kilkenny to which the Deputy It has been assigned a ‘band 2’ rating by my refers has recently been received within my 491 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 492

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] the school referred to by the Deputy. I expect to Department. The application for funding for the be in a position to make further announcements programme is currently under consideration. on this matter in the course of the year. In the meantime, it is open to the school’s man- Decentralisation Programme. agement authority to apply for key priority works 302. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- required at the school as part of the 2005 summer cation and Science when the decentralisation works scheme, details of which will be announced implementation plan of his Department will be later this year. completed; and the reason it was not completed within the time limit set. [17765/04] School Staffing. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 304. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Edu- Dempsey): The full decentralisation of my cation and Science the funding his Department Department impacts not just on the staff cur- will be allocating to provide resource teachers to rently working in Dublin but also on the existing those schools which apply in 2004 and 2005; the decentralised locations of Athlone and Tulla- funds that were allocated in 2003 to 2004; the more. Indications are that staff working in number of applications for resource teachers that decentralised offices will take the opportunity to were made in County Meath; the names of the further decentralise. Because this impacts on the schools; the number of resource teachers posi- entire organisation, the Department has decided tions that were filled; and if he will make a state- to adopt a participative approach to drawing up ment on the matter. [17773/04] the implementation plan. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. The decentralisation group of my Department Dempsey): The number of resource teachers in has been holding a series of meetings with senior primary schools nationwide is currently in the management in all locations. This takes time but region of 2,600 at an estimated annual salary cost is necessary to address the concerns of staff, all of \75 million. The funds to be made available of whom are directly affected by the programme. for resource teaching support in future years will It will also ensure that the entire organisation will be conditional on the allocations voted to my have an opportunity to participate in the formula- Department in the context of the annual tion of the plan and will enable management to Estimates. capitalise on the experiences of senior staff who were involved in earlier decentralisation moves. With regard to the matter of funding of This initial consultative phase is now nearing resource teachers for the 2004-2005 school year, completion. my Department is currently developing a new weighted system of allocation which I announced Schools Building Projects. recently. This system, as part of which an additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, 303. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for will involve two main elements, making a staffing Education and Science, further to the file submit- allocation to schools based on a predicted incid- ted to him by this Deputy on a school, details ence of pupils with special educational needs and supplied, the stage in the process the application making individual allocations in the case of chil- for a school extension and refurbishment, the dren with more acute lower prevalence special steps which should be taken by the school with educational needs. his Department in view of the fact that it was his It is expected that the change to a weighted Department that suggested the scope of the system will bring with it a number of benefits. works; if he has considered the request from the The new system will reduce the need for individu- school to replace the 60 windows in the school \ alised educational psychological assessment, at a cost of 45,000; if this work can be funded reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- immediately in view of the fact that some of the ment for additional resources for individual windows are now beyond repair; if he will con- pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, sider this work under two phases; and if he will which will facilitate the development and imple- make a statement on the matter. [17772/04] mentation of improved systems and procedures Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low Dempsey): When publishing the 2004 school achievement and pupils with special educational building programme, I outlined that my strategy needs. going forward will be grounded in capital invest- Transitional arrangements for the introduction ment based on multiannual allocations. My of the weighted system are being developed at officials are currently reviewing all projects which present in consultation with representative were not authorised to proceed to construction as interests. As soon as those consultations have part of the 2004 school building programme, with been completed, the detailed arrangements for a view to including them as part of a multiannual processing applications for teacher resources will school building programme from 2005 onwards. be set out in a circular to be issued to schools This review will include the proposed project at shortly. 493 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 494

I regret that the specific information sought by In the case of teacher resources, the outcome the Deputy in relation to applications from for each applicant school will be based on a new schools in County Meath for resource teaching weighted system of allocation which I announced support is not readily available. However, it is my recently. This system, as part of which an intention that all schools, including those in additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, County Meath, which are due to receive will involve two main elements, making a staffing additional resource teaching support in the con- allocation to schools based on a predicted incid- text of the weighted system will be advised by my ence of pupils with special educational needs and Department before the end of the current making individual allocations in the case of chil- school year. dren with more acute lower prevalence special 305. Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Edu- educational needs. cation and Science if he will sanction a full-time It is expected that the change to a weighted resource post between schools, details supplied,) system will bring with it a number of benefits. following the recent increase in numbers of pupils The new system will reduce the need for individu- requiring assistance. [17789/04] alised educational psychological assessment, reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. ment for additional resources for individual Dempsey): My Department received correspon- pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, dence from the schools referred to by the Deputy which will facilitate the development and imple- on 4 June 2004 concerning the introduction of the mentation of improved systems and procedures weighted model of resource allocation. A in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low response will issue to all schools, including the achievement and pupils with special educational schools in question shortly, setting out the details needs. of the weighted model to be implemented in Sep- Transitional arrangements for the introduction tember 2004. of the weighted system are being developed at present in consultation with representative 306. Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Edu- interests. As soon as those consultations have cation and Science if a full-time learning support been completed, the detailed arrangements for and resource teacher will be allocated to a school, processing applications for resources, including details supplied, for September 2004. [17790/04] those for special needs assistants and those received after 31 August last will be set out in a Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. circular to be issued to schools shortly. Dempsey): My Department has received appli- cations for special educational resources, SER, 307. Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Edu- from the school in question. The position is that cation and Science when staff will be allocated for SER applications received between 15 February the 20 new special education needs children at a and 31 August 2003, including an application school, details supplied, in County Dublin. from the school in question are being considered [17791/04] at present. In all, more than 5,000 such appli- cations were received. Priority was given to cases Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. involving children starting school last September Dempsey): My Department allocates resource and all these cases were responded to at or before posts and special needs assistant posts to second the commencement of the current school year. level schools to cater for students with special The balance of more than 4,000 applications educational needs. Applications for such support has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- are made to my Department by the relevant ing members of my Department’s inspectorate school authorities. Each application is considered and the national educational psychological ser- on the basis of the assessed needs of the pupils vice, NEPS. These applications are being further involved and the nature and level of the support considered in the context of the outcome of sur- provided is determined on the advice of the veys of SER provision conducted over the past psychological service. year and the data submitted by schools as part of An application for additional resources for a nationwide census of SER provision. students enrolled for the 2004-05 school year has The processing of the applications is a complex been made by the school in question. The appli- and time consuming operation. However, my cation is currently under consideration in my Department is endeavouring to have this com- Department and the school authority will be noti- pleted as quickly as possible and my officials will fied of the outcome as soon as possible. then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular Appointments to State Boards. 24-03, which issued in September 2003. This cir- cular contains practical advice on how to achieve 308. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education the most effective deployment of resources and Science the appointments that have been already allocated for special educational needs made to State boards and bodies within his within the school. Department from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004; 495 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 496

[Mr. Ring.] Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. the persons appointed; and the persons they are Dempsey): The information requested by the replacing. [17798/04] Deputy is contained in the following table.

Board Person appointed Person replaced

Advisory Council for English Language Schools, ACELS Ms Anne Murray Ms Anne O’Mahony Ms Margaret Kelly Ms Maura Clancy International Education Board of Ireland, IEBI Ms Anne Murray Ms Anne O’Mahony Residential Institutions Redress Board Ms Ann O’Brien New appointment Mr. John O. Mason New appointment Ms Mary Concannon Bluett New appointment Ms Darina Conlon New appointment Ms Fionnuala O’Loughlin New appointment Mr. John A. Campbell New appointment Residential Institutions Redress Review Committee Mr. Colm Gaynor New appointment Ms Ita Mangan New appointment National Centre for Technology in Education Mr. John Fanning New appointment Dr. Gerard McMahon New appointment Dr. Sarah Fitzpatrick New appointment Ms Una Halligan New appointment Ms Eileen Ward New appointment Mr. Bill Morrissey New appointment Mr. Jerome Morrissey New appointment National Education Welfare Board Mr. Gerry Mangan Ms Catherine Hazlett Mr. Richard Dooley Ms Cate Hourigan National Council for Special Education Mr. Christy Lynch New appointment Ms Mary Grogan New appointment Ms Mary Keane New appointment Ms Maisie Dooley New appointment Mr. Gearoid O’Conluain New appointment Ms Daraine Mulvihill New appointment Mr. Brendan Ingoldsby New appointment Ms Antoinette Buggie New appointment Mr. PJ Gannon New appointment Dr. Michael Shelvin New appointment Ms Frankie Berry New appointment Ms Sinead McLoughlin New appointment State Exams Commission Mr. Jimmy Farrelly New appointment Ms Mary Bridget O’Hara New appointment Mr. Barra O´ Briain New appointment Dr. Dympna Glendunning New appointment Dr. Martin Newell New appointment National Children’s Advisory Council Ms Breda Naughton Mr. John Fanning The National Platform for Biodiversity Research Ms Breda Naughton New appointment National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA Ms Marion Lyons Mr. Michael O’Riordan

Schools Building Projects. scheme. While the school’s application under the 309. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Edu- summer works scheme for 2004 was unsuccessful, cation and Science if he has received an appli- it is open to the school’s management authority cation from a school, details supplied, in County to reapply for the key priority works required at Dublin for funding for building purposes, in par- the school as part of the 2005 summer works ticular to facilitate occupational therapy work; scheme, details of which will be announced later the consideration he has given to this application; this year. and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17821/04] Special Educational Needs. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. 310. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Edu- Dempsey): The scope of works required at the cation and Science when a resource teacher will school referred to by the Deputy are appropriate be provided for a person, details supplied, in for consideration under the summer works 497 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 498

County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement those for special needs assistants and those on the matter. [17839/04] received after 31 August last, will be set out in a circular to be issued to schools shortly. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey): My Department has received an 311. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Edu- application for resource teaching support for the cation and Science when his Department will pupil referred to by the Deputy. The position is make a decision on an application for resource that applications for special educational teaching support for a person, details supplied, in resources, SER, received between 15 February County Limerick; and if he will make a statement and 31 August 2003, including the application in on the matter. [17840/04] question, are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Priority was given to cases involving children Dempsey): My Department has received an starting school last September and all these cases application for resource teaching support for the were responded to at or before the commence- pupil referred to by the Deputy. The position is ment of the current school year. that SER applications received between 15 Feb- The balance of more than 4,000 applications ruary and 31 August 2003 are being considered at has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications ing members of my Department’s inspectorate were received. Priority was given to cases involv- and the national educational psychological ser- ing children starting school last September and all vice, NEPS. These applications are being further these cases were responded to at or before the considered in the context of the outcome of sur- commencement of the current school year. veys of SER provision conducted over the past The balance of more than 4,000 applications year and the data submitted by schools as part of has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- a nationwide census of SER provision. ing members of my Department’s inspectorate The processing of the applications is a complex and the National Educational Psychological Ser- and time consuming operation. However, my vice, NEPS. These applications are being further Department is endeavouring to have this com- considered in the context of the outcome of sur- pleted as quickly as possible and my officials will veys of SER provision conducted over the past then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a year and the data submitted by schools as part of response, schools are advised to refer to circular a nationwide census of SER provision. 24-03, which issued in September 2003. This cir- The processing of the applications is a complex cular contains practical advice on how to achieve and time consuming operation. However, my the most effective deployment of resources Department is endeavouring to have this com- already allocated for special educational needs pleted as quickly as possible and my officials will within the school. then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a In the case of teacher resources, the outcome response, schools are advised to refer to circular for each applicant school will be based on a new 24-03, which issued in September 2003. This cir- weighted system of allocation which I announced cular contains practical advice on how to achieve recently. This system, as part of which an the most effective deployment of resources additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, already allocated for special educational needs will involve two main elements, making a staffing within the school. allocation to schools based on a predicted incid- In the case of teacher resources, the outcome ence of pupils with special educational needs and for each applicant school will be based on a new making individual allocations in the case of chil- weighted system of allocation which I announced dren with more acute lower prevalence special recently. This system, as part of which an educational needs. additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, It is expected that the change to a weighted will involve two main elements making a staffing system will bring with it a number of benefits. allocation to schools based on a predicted incid- The new system will reduce the need for individu- ence of pupils with special educational needs and alised educational psychological assessment, making individual allocations in the case of chil- reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- dren with more acute lower prevalence special ment for additional resources for individual educational needs. pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, It is expected that the change to a weighted which will facilitate the development and imple- system will bring with it a number of benefits. mentation of improved systems and procedures The new system will reduce the need for individu- in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low alised educational psychological assessment achievement and pupils with special educational reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- needs. ment for additional resources for individual Transitional arrangements for the introduction pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, of the weighted system are being developed at which will facilitate the development and imple- present in consultation with representative mentation of improved systems and procedures interests. As soon as those consultations have in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low been completed, the detailed arrangements for achievement and pupils with special educational processing applications for resources, including needs. 499 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 500

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] cation for resource teaching hours for a person, Transitional arrangements for the introduction details supplied, in County Donegal; and if he will of the weighted system are being developed at make a statement on the matter. [17870/04] present in consultation with representative 316. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for interests. As soon as those consultations have Education and Science the position of an appli- been completed, the detailed arrangements for cation for resource teaching hours for a person, processing applications for resources, and those details supplied, in County Donegal; and if he will received after 31 August last, including the appli- make a statement on the matter. [17871/04] cation for the pupil in question, will be set out in a circular to be issued to schools shortly. 317. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of an appli- 312. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Edu- cation for resource teaching hours for a person, cation and Science if a special needs assistant who details supplied, in County Donegal; and if he will has been assigned to a person who moves on to make a statement on the matter. [17872/04] another school can automatically transfer to the school to which the person has transferred and Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. continue as a special needs assistant to that per- Dempsey): I propose to take Questions Nos. 314 son; and if he will make a statement on the mat- to 317, inclusive, together. ter. [17867/04] My Department has received applications for special education resources, SER, for the four Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. pupils referred to by the Deputy. Three of these Dempsey): Responsibility for the recruitment and applications were received during the period 15 appointment of special needs assistants, SNAs, February 2003 to 31 August 2003 while the other rests with the relevant school authorities. The cri- application was received after 1 September 2003. teria for the appointment of SNAs is outlined in The position is that SER applications received Department circular SNA 03-03, Appointment between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are Procedures for Special Needs Assistants. The cir- being considered at present. In all, more than cular may also be accessed on my Department’s 5,000 such applications were received. Priority website, www.education.ie. was given to cases involving children starting The management of the school to which a pupil school last September and all these cases were transfers must secure my Department’s approval responded to at or before the commencement of to recruit an SNA. In the event that such the current school year. approval is given, it is a matter for that school to The balance of more than 4,000 applications appoint a suitable person to the post. has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- ing members of my Department’s inspectorate Residential Institutions Redress Scheme. and the national educational psychological ser- 313. Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Edu- vice, NEPS. These applications are being further cation and Science when a school, details sup- considered in the context of the outcome of sur- plied, in County Dublin will come under the veys of SER provision conducted over the past remit of the Residential Institutions Redress year and the data submitted by schools as part of Board. [17868/04] a nationwide census of SER provision. The processing of the applications is a complex Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. and time consuming operation. However, my Dempsey): Section 4 of the Act enables Department is endeavouring to have this com- additional institutions that are identified as pleted as quickly as possible and my officials will reformatory schools, industrial schools, orphan- then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a ages, children’s homes and special schools, in response, schools are advised to refer to circular which children were placed and resident and in 24-03, which issued in September 2003. This cir- respect of which a public body had a regulatory cular contains practical advice on how to achieve or inspection function, to be added to the Sched- the most effective deployment of resources ule. A number of institutions have been identified already allocated for special educational needs for possible inclusion and I intend bringing this within the school. matter to Government for its consideration In the case of teacher resources, the outcome shortly. The institution mentioned by the Deputy for each applicant school will be based on a new is one of those institutions under consideration. weighted system of allocation which I announced recently. This system, as part of which an Special Educational Needs. additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, 314. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for will involve two main elements making a staffing Education and Science the position of a special allocation to schools based on a predicted incid- needs assistant application by a person, details ence of pupils with special educational needs and supplied, in County Donegal; and if he will make making individual allocations in the case of chil- dren with more acute lower prevalence special a statement on the matter. [17869/04] educational needs. 315. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for It is expected that the change to a weighted Education and Science the position of an appli- system will bring with it a number of benefits. 501 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 502

The new system will reduce the need for individu- Special Educational Needs. alised educational psychological assessment, 319. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Edu- reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- cation and Science when a special needs assistant ment for additional resources for individual will be appointed for a person, details supplied, pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, in County Westmeath; and if he will make a state- which will facilitate the development and imple- ment on the matter. [17902/04] mentation of improved systems and procedures in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. achievement and pupils with special educational Dempsey): I understand that the person referred needs. to by the Deputy is the parent of a child for whom Transitional arrangements for the introduction an application for special educational resources, of the weighted system are being developed at SER, was received in my Department on 3 April present in consultation with representative 2004. The application is in respect of special interests. As soon as those consultations have needs assistant and resource teaching support for been completed, the detailed arrangements for the pupil who is due to commence school in Sep- processing applications for resources, including tember 2004. The position is that SER appli- those for special needs assistants and those cations received between 15 February and 31 received after 31 August last, will be set out in a August 2003 are being considered at present. In circular to be issued to schools shortly. all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving School Staffing. children starting school last September and all 318. Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister for these cases were responded to at or before the Education and Science if his Department has commencement of the current school year. received correspondence dated 12 May 2004 The balance of more than 4,000 applications regarding a school, details supplied, in County has been reviewed by a dedicated team compris- Meath; if he will respond positively in view of he ing members of my Department’s inspectorate special circumstances outlined; and if he will and the National Educational Psychological Ser- make a statement on the matter. [17894/04] vice, NEPS. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of sur- Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. veys of SER provision conducted over the past Dempsey): The staffing of a primary school is year and the data submitted by schools as part of determined by reference to the enrolment of the a nationwide census of SER provision. school on 30 September of the previous school The processing of the applications is a complex year. This is in accordance with guidelines agreed and time consuming operation. However, my between this Department and the education part- Department is endeavouring to have this com- ners. The enrolment of the school referred to by pleted as quickly as possible and my officials will the Deputy on 30 September 2003 was 74 pupils. then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a This enrolment will entitle the school to a staffing of principal and two mainstream class teachers response, schools are advised to refer to circular for the 2004-05 school year. 24-03, which issued in September 2003. This cir- The agreement referred to above can only be cular contains practical advice on how to achieve deviated from when a school experiences rapid the most effective deployment of resources growth in its enrolment. Rapid growth is defined already allocated for special educational needs as an increase in its enrolment in one year rela- within the school. tive to the previous year of 25 pupils plus a stipu- In the case of teacher resources, the outcome lated excess of five pupils on the appointment fig- for each applicant school will be based on a new ure. For this school to be considered for weighted system of allocation which I announced developing school status the school would require recently. This system, as part of which an a minimum enrolment of 99 pupils on 30 Sep- additional 350 teaching posts will be allocated, tember 2004. Unfortunately, an additional main- will involve two main elements making a staffing stream teacher cannot be sanctioned under any allocation to schools based on a predicted incid- other circumstances. ence of pupils with special educational needs and If the board of management of the school feel making individual allocations in the case of chil- that the enrolment of the school will increase to dren with more acute lower prevalence special a minimum of 99 pupils by 30 September 2004, it educational needs. may apply for a post under the developing school It is expected that the change to a weighted criteria as outlined in Department circular 03-04. system will bring with it a number of benefits. To ensure transparency and openness in the The new system will reduce the need for individu- system, an independent appeals board is now in alised educational psychological assessment, place to decide any mainstream staffing appeals. reduce the volume of applications to my Depart- Details of the appeals board are outlined in ment for additional resources for individual Department circular 03-04. I am sure the Deputy pupils and give greater flexibility to schools, will appreciate that it would not be appropriate which will facilitate the development and imple- for me to intervene in the operation of the inde- mentation of improved systems and procedures pendent appeals board. in schools to meet the needs of pupils with low 503 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 504

[Mr. N. Dempsey.] with Dublin 7 Educate Together; and if he will achievement and pupils with special educational make a statement on the matter. [17932/04] needs. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Transitional arrangements for the introduction Dempsey): It is my intention to publish a Bill for of the weighted system are being developed at the establishment of an agency to develop Grang- present in consultation with representative egorman as a site for education, health and other interests. As soon as those consultations have facilities. It will be known as the Grangegorman been completed, the detailed arrangements for development agency. The agency will be respon- processing applications for resources, including sible for producing a comprehensive plan for the those for special needs assistants and those development of the site in consultation with received after 31 August last, will be set out in a interested parties, including local residents, Dub- circular to be issued to schools shortly. lin Institute of Technology, health authorities, transport providers and Dublin City Council. My Vocational Education Committees. Department has always envisaged that the 320. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Edu- development of the Grangegorman site has the cation and Science the exact position on the scope to help facilitate the long-term primary and recruitment of clerical staff by VECs in respect post primary needs of the area including those of of qualifications; the reason a leaving certificate Dublin 7 Educate Together. is required in the case of a person with a primary The agency will also be responsible for the degree; his views on whether this requirement implementation of the planning scheme once it discriminates against persons who avail of second has been approved. To facilitate this, title to the chance education opportunities; and if he will lands at Grangegorman will be vested in the review this policy. [17922/04] agency during the development. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Telecommunications Services. Dempsey): The qualification criteria required for the recruitment of administrative and clerical 323. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for staff in the VEC sector are governed by collective Communications, Marine and Natural Resources agreements involving VEC managerial auth- if, in the context of revised criteria for broadband orities, representative trade unions and my provision, Kinnegad, Castlepollard and Moate, Department. In the case of the clerical officer County Westmeath, will have access to this ser- post, candidates must have obtained at least vice. [17323/04] grade D in five subjects in the leaving certificate examination, ordinary level, or have at least two Minister for Communications, Marine and years experience in a VEC, local authority or Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): My Depart- health board and have a competency in Irish. I ment’s regional broadband programme includes understand that, normally, candidates with equiv- plans to roll out broadband to more than 90 alent or higher qualifications are eligible to apply towns with a population of 1,500 and over, for the posts concerned. between now and 2006. Moate is one of the towns listed for inclusion. The group broadband My Department is currently reviewing the scheme, which is also administered by my Depart- qualification criteria with the VEC managerial ment, offers smaller communities the opportunity authorities and representative trade unions to pool their resources and, together with service concerned. providers, to apply for funding of up to 55% towards the cost of delivering broadband in their School Transport. areas. An application has been submitted by a 321. Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Edu- group based in Kinnegad and is currently under cation and Science the reason a school bus will consideration. not collect a person, details supplied, in County Full details of the broadband rollout pro- Mayo from his home; and if he will make a state- gramme are on my Department’s websites, ment on the matter. [17928/04] www.dcmnr.ie and www.gbs.ie. Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Harbour Authorities. Dempsey): A report on this case has been requested from Bus E´ ireann. The Deputy will be 324. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for advised of the position as soon as the report has Communications, Marine and Natural Resources been received and assessed. when he first requested to give his consent to the Drogheda Port Authority to lease the Morn- Educational Projects. ington Port field to Coastwatch Ireland; the reason for the delay in a decision being made; the 322. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Edu- further reason consent has not been granted to cation and Science the timescale for the exchange date; and if he will make a statement on the mat- of lands at Grangegorman, Dublin 7, from his ter. [17439/04] Department to the DIT; when the necessary legis- lation will be ready; if provision is being made for Minister for Communications, Marine and a primary school on the site as previously agreed Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): In July 2003, 505 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 506

Drogheda Port Company applied to my Depart- tact, as was promised in the joint programme; and ment for my consent under section 15(3) of the if not, if he will make a statement or explanation Harbours Act 1996 to the reservation of a rent in respect of each service not yet so provided. below open market rent obtainable for land at [17562/04] Mornington, County Meath. The company Minister for Communications, Marine and informed my Department that it had agreed to Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): My Depart- lease the land to Coastwatch Ireland Limited for ment’s information systems division is in the pro- 999 years at a peppercorn rent. In October 2003, cess of implementing a programme of ICT pro- the company provided further information to my jects and e-services, which the public will be able Department relevant to its request. to access on the Internet. During the current year My Department has not yet completed its con- a number of those e-services will be available via sideration of the company’s request, principally my Department’s own website. because the company has indicated that the lease My Department has furnished the relevant of this land takes place in the wider context of details of all these e-services to the Reach public the application to the Boyne Estuary Special Pro- service e-broker. When the Reach e-broker is tection Area of the provisions of Council Direc- ready and available, my Department’s e-services tive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural will subsequently be made accessible through a habitats and of wild fauna and flora. This has single point of contact, www.Reach.ie. given rise to the need for additional consultation which my Department is pursuing at present with Expenditure Reviews. a view to finalising the matter at the earliest opportunity. 327. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Telecommunications Services. if his Department has achieved the target, set out in the initiation of the expenditure review initiat- 325. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for ive in 1997, that all Government expenditure be Communications, Marine and Natural Resources subject to a formal review under that initiative the proportion of homes here with access to every three years; and if not, the areas of expen- broadband communications; and the way in diture in respect of which the three yearly review which that proportion compares with each of the has not taken place. [17577/04] other OECD and EU countries. [17534/04] 328. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Minister for Communications, Marine and Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): The latest the areas of expenditure of his Department in statistics published by the OECD on broadband respect of which an expenditure review under the access, which date from June 2003, show Ireland expenditure review initiative has not yet been with 0.41 per 100 inhabitants compared with the completed and published. [17592/04] OECD figure of 6.06. The most recent European Commission data, from May 2004, indicates a Minister for Communications, Marine and penetration rate of 0.9% of the population. Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): I propose to Broadband access in Ireland has been increas- take Questions Nos. 327 and 328 together. ing dramatically in recent months, so these figures The initial target of the expenditure review may not reflect the current level of broadband initiative was to review all expenditure pro- penetration here. For example, the number of grammes over a three year period. However, a DSL broadband customers in Ireland grew from review of the process by the expenditure review 1,000 in May 2003 to over 44,000 by May 2004. In central steering committee, ERCSC, in the addition, the numbers availing of flat rate Inter- Department of Finance in 2000-01 found that this net access grew by 50,000 in the same period. In target had been over-ambitious and that a more addition to these figures, 10,000 customers are focused approach to the selection of review topics now availing of corporate ultra high speed broad- was required. This view was supported by a band, and up to 5,000 have access to broadband Comptroller and Auditor General value for by wireless, cable and satellite. money study of the expenditure review initiative The recent announcements of new broadband in 2001 which proposed that a more realistic tar- offers, with three months of free trials and start- get should be set, taking into account the level of up packages, together with the general lowering evaluative capacity in departments generally. of broadband prices, will certainly help to drive In June 2001 the Government decided, inter broadband penetration into even more homes alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- and businesses. ual Departments-offices should compile and agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- ific selection criteria set out in the Comptroller Electronic Communications. and Auditor General’s report. Subsequently, in 326. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for May 2002 the Government approved a schedule Communications, Marine and Natural Resources of expenditure review topics proposed for the if all public services provided by his Department first year of the next three-year planning horizon, that are capable of electronic delivery are avail- 2002-2004, and noted the topics proposed for able electronically through a single point of con- 2003 and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC 507 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 508

[Mr. D. Ahern.] lay them before the Houses of the Oireachtas requested Departments-offices to update their since this is not required for reviews listed in the expenditure review plans, again in consultation 1997-2001 phase. The reviews will be placed on with the Department of Finance. The committee the Department’s Internet site, and simul- emphasised the Government’s selection criteria taneously laid before the Houses of the and advised that Departments-offices should sel- Oireachtas. ect a small number of programmes-areas involv- The Department has also completed two ing major policy issues or significant levels of further reviews. It is a matter for the Department expenditure. On foot of this process, revised of Agriculture and Food to publish the review of expenditure review plans were drawn up by the forestry structural programme as the function Departments-offices. transferred to that Department on 1 January 2004. The review of the inland fisheries pro- This Department has completed six expendi- gramme will not be published until the high level ture reviews from 1997 to date. Summary details review of the inland fisheries sector is completed. are listed in the following table, together with the Both reviews have been forwarded to the subheads to which each review relates. Three of committee. the Department’s reviews are being prepared for Three other reviews are under way or about to publication: BIM ice plants, fishery harbours and commence, those on marine research, the coast protection. It is at the discretion of the national seabed survey and on alternative energy Department whether to publish these reviews and and energy conservation. 509 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 510 f Harbours for of function to od Grants for ishery Harbour Centres re-categorised from year to year. same as previous years since sub-heads can be relate. The references for 2004 may not be the Salmon Research Agency (Grant-in-Aid) Table 1: Summary of DCMNR expenditure review reports. ERI. The report wasparty made or available individual. to stakeholders and to any other interested of recommendations is ongoing.imminent. Publication on DCMNR’s Internet site is given the transfer of the forestry function to that Department, 1 January 2004. Promotion of Forestry Report Progress 2004 areas of expenditure to which reports Value for money review of the Irish Coast GuardValue for money review of This fishery was harbour the first value for money review carried out by the DepartmentValue under for the money reviewprogramme, of undertaken coast by Completed B.1. protection Fitzpatrick and Irish Associates considered CoastValue by Guard for the money ERCSC, reviewprogramme, to of undertaken which the by reviews BIM Nautilus recommendations in ice is theValue plant ongoing. 1997-2001 for Publication phase money on review DCMNR’s of Internet the C.2. site Completed forestry Development is and structural & imminent. considered Upgrading by o theValue ERCSC. for Analysis money and Completed review implementationdevelopment and Completed of of programme, considered and the undertaken by has inland byEconomic the been fisheries Indecon Consultants ERCSC. sent Analysis to and the implementation ERCSC.Value of The for committee money recommendations has reviewundertaken is when decided of in-house ongoing. the to marine Publication high-level research, on review DCMNR’s Completed ofValue C.4. Internet and the for Coast site has inland money Protection is been fisheries reviewconservation & imminent. sent sector of energy Management to is the programme the completed. alternative- ERCSC. E.1. DecisionValue (part) on for Bord publication money Iascaigh K.6. will reviewsurvey Mhara Sub-head be of prior taken Currently the to underway national transfer and seabed nearing F completion Inland of Fisheries final draft Due to commence Due summer to 2004 commence summer 2004 D.1. Marine Institute (Grant-in-Aid); D.2. H.2. Energy Conservation D.3. National Seabed Survey development expenditure programme, undertakenby Richard Banks Ltd were sent. Reviews undertaken in the 2002-2004 phase are sent to an externalprogramme, Fishery undertaken Purposes; by C.3. the F CIRCA Group forward the report assessor to for the consideration Secretary rather General, than Department to of the Agriculture ERCSC. and Analysis Food, and implementation Dept. of Fund Agriculture and Fo 511 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 512

Appointments to State Boards. appointed; and the persons they are replacing. 329. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for [17799/04] Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Minister for Communications, Marine and the appointments that have been made to State Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): The material boards and bodies within his Department from 1 requested by the Deputy is provided in the table January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons below.

State body Name of appointees Date of appointment Person replacing

An Post Ms Margaret McGinley, 04.02.2003 Mr. Stephen O’Connor Chairperson Mr. Donal Curtin, Chief 14.07.2003 Mr. John Hynes Executive Ms Cathy Herbert 04.02.2003 Ms Margaret McGinley Mr. Peter Wyer 04.02.2003 Re-appointed Mr. James Quinlivan 09.05.2003 Mr. Alan Benson Mr. James Hyland 11.12.2003 Mr. John A. Lally Mr. James Alan Sloane* 01.01.2004 Re-appointed *elected Postmaster Director: appointment requires Minister’s approval

Commission for Communications Mr. John Doherty, 02.01.2003 New appointment Regulation Chairperson Ms Isolde Goggins, 02.01.2003 New appointment Commissioner

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland Mr. Conor J. Maguire, 02.12 2003 Re-appointed Chairperson Mr. John Waters 02.12 2003 Ms Olive Brady Ms Mary Davis 02.12 2003 Mr. Colm Kenny Ms Angela Kerins 02.12 2003 Mr. Caimin Jones Ms Kay McGuinness 02.12 2003 Mr. Frank Masterson Mr. Tom Collins 02.12 2003 Ms Lenore Mrkwicka Ms Vivienne Jupp 02.12 2003 Re-appointed Mr. John O’Brennan 02.12 2003 Re-appointed Ms Mary Kerrigan 02.12 2003 Re-appointed Mr. Joe Griffin 02.12 2003 Re-appointed

Digital Hub Development Agency Mr. William Burgess, 21.07.2003 Existing Board re-appointed Chairperson entirely Mr. Philip Flynn, Chief 31.07.2003 Executive Dr. Don Thornhill 31.07.2003 Mr. Dan Flinter 31.07.2003 Mr. John Fitzgerald 31.07.2003 Mr. Sean Dorgan 31.07.2003 Mr. Paul Kavanagh 31.07.2003 Mr. Peter Cassells 31.07.2003 Ms Jackie Harrison 31.07.2003 Mr. Paul McGuinness 31.07.2003

ESB Mr. Joe Lacumbre*, Deputy 01.01.2003 All re-appointed Chairperson Mr. John McGinley* 01.01.2003 Mr. Pat Smith* 01.01.2003 Mr. Eamonn Connelly* 01.01.2003 *elected Worker Directors: these appointments require the Minister’s approval

Bord na Mo´ na Mr. P.J. Coghill 19.05.2003 Re-appointed Mr. Pat McEvoy 1.1.2003 Re-appointed Mr. P.J. Minogue 1.1.2003 Re-appointed Mr. Paddy Rowland 1.1.2003 Mr. Con Stokes Mr. Paddy Fox 1.1.2003 Re-appointed 513 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 514

State body Name of appointees Date of appointment Person replacing

Bord Ga´is E´ ireann Mr. Aidan Eames 3.3.2004 Mr. Tony Kenna Mr. Tom Donlon 26.03.2003 Re-appointed Mr. Micheal O´ Faola´in 19.05.2003 Re-appointed

Sustainable Energy Ireland Mr. Martin Finucane 24.10.2003 Mr. Tom Kennington

Mining Board Mr. Philip O’Brien 21.07.2003 Ms Nuala Butler B.L. Chairperson Mr. John Shackleton 04.12.2003 Re-appointed Mr. Eoin O´ Buachalla 04.12.2003 Re-appointed

Du´ n Laoghaire Harbour Company Mr. Don McManus 05.02.2004 Mr. Tom Welby

Drogheda Port Company Mr. Tom O’Reilly 24.01.2003 Re-appointed Mr. Frank Maher 24.01.2003 New appointment Cllr. Jacqui McConville 21.12.2003 Re-appointed

Galway Harbour Company Mr. Robert Molloy 10.02.2003 Mr. Patrick O’Sullivan Mr. Martin Connolly 04.12.2003 Re-appointed

New Ross Port Company Ms Rosie Kehoe 17.02.2004 Mr. Patrick Nolan Cllr. Sean Connick 17.02.2004 Mr. Tom Clerkin

Port of Waterford Company Mr. Ben Gavin, Chairperson 05.02.2004 Re-appointed Mr. Pa´draig O´ Grı´ofa 05.02.2004 Re-appointed Mr. Maurice Lonergan 05.02.2004 Re-appointed Mr. Michael Flynn 05.02.2004 Re-appointed Mr. David Lane 05.02.2004 Re-appointed Mr. Patrick Murphy 05.02.2004 New appointment Ms Fiona Robbins 05.02.2004 New appointment Mr. Derek Donnelly 05.02.2004 New appointment

Marine Institute Dr. J.P. Crowley, Chairperson 11.04.2003 Re-appointed Mr. Joey Murrin 28.11.2003 Re-appointed

Advisory Group to the Irish Mr. Alex Mullin 21.01.04 New Body — all new Maritime Development Office appointments Capt. Kevin Cribbin 21.01.04 Mr. John Dundon 21.01.04 Capt. David Hopkins 21.01.04 Mr. Padraic White 21.01.04 Mr. Jim Healy 21.01.04 Mr. Brian Kerr 21.01.04 Mr. Pat Keenan 21.01.04 Mr. Dermot McNulty 21.01.04 Ms Sheila Tyrell 21.01.04

Bord Iascaigh Mhara Mr. Hugh Byrne, Chairperson 08.07.2003 Mr. Pat Ridge

Eastern Regional Fisheries Board Ms Betty Hayes 08.12.2003 Mr. Pauric Kelly

Northern Regional Fisheries Mr. Billy Grimes July 2003 Mr. George Gallagher Board

National Salmon Commission Dr. Philip McGinnitty 31.01.2003-19.08.2003 Mr. Paul Farrell Mr. Brian Sheerin 20.08.2003 Dr. Philip McGinnitty Mr. Brendan O’Rourke 31.01.2003 Mr. P.P. O´ Conchubhair

Aquaculture Licences Appeals Mr. Conleth Bradley, 17.7.2003 Mr. Conor J Maguire SC Board Chairperson Mr. Sean Murphy 17.7.2003 Dr. Richard D Fitzgerald B. Sc PhD Mr. Mario J. Minehane 17.7.2003 Mr. Martin Howley Mr. Lorca´nO´ Cinne´ide 17.7.2003 Mr Jim Killeen 515 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 516

Grant Payments. his Department to initiate legislation in order that local authorities can raise loans to carry out such 330. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for work; if his Department has plans to implement Communications, Marine and Natural Resources private and public partnerships in regard to such his views on a matter, details supplied; and if he work; if his Department has discussions with the will make a statement on the matter. [17876/04] Department of Finance in regard to such possible Minister for Communications, Marine and proposals; if so, the results of such discussions; Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern): An appli- and if he will make a statement on the matter. cation seeking grant assistance in respect of the [17166/04] company referred to by the Deputy was received 332. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, on 18 November 2003 by An Bord Iascaigh Sport and Tourism if his attention has been Mhara under the EU co-funded aquaculture drawn to the problems that local authorities are development measure of the Southern and East- encountering in providing funding for the refur- ern, S& E, and the Border Midland and Western, bishment or replacement of swimming pools, BMW, regional operational programmes of the many of which originally were community based National Development Plan 2000-2006. or initiated; the plans his Department has to over- The application was assessed and prioritised by come such shortfalls in funding; the mechanisms BIM for Exchequer and FIFG grant assistance that are available to local authorities to obtain and BIM submitted the project to the aquaculture such funding; and if he will make a statement on selection boards for the S & E region and the the matter. [17167/04] BMW region. The application is one of a number of applications considered by the aquaculture 333. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, selection boards at their meetings on 25 May. A Sport and Tourism if his Department has con- large number of new projects were submitted sidered a private public partnership agreement in involving total grant of \10.517 million. When regard to the provision or refurbishment of local taken together with projects previously approved, authority based swimming pools seeking capital the total commitment would amount to an esti- sports grants; if he has had meetings with the mated 94% of the grant aid provided for aquacul- Department of the Environment, Heritage and ture under the BMW regional programme and an Local Government or in regard to such proposals; estimated 87% for the S & E regional pro- if so, the results of such meetings; and if he will gramme, assuming all projects were approved. make a statement on the matter. [17155/04] Taking account of the substantial level of grant Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. aid involved, the boards did not make any O’Donoghue): I propose to take Questions Nos. decisions pending a determination on the allo- 331 to 333, inclusive, together. cations of such funding in the 2005, 2006 and 2007 Private sector involvement in the local auth- financial envelopes for aquaculture development ority swimming pool programme, LASPP, is just under the NDP to be provided to the Department one of a number of issues being considered in the in the Estimates. context of an expenditure review of the pro- Over the coming weeks the Department will be gramme, which is currently under way in my examining the extent of financial commitments Department. This review is due to be completed arising out of grant aid awarded to date under the later this year. The Department of Environment, scheme, and will also be examining the projected Heritage and Local Government is represented demand relating to prioritised projects in the con- on the expenditure review group. text of available funding for 2005 and subsequent At the moment, the various arrangements and years. Decisions on the processing of the appli- accompanying guidelines in place for public cations under the measures will be made in light private partnership, PPP, are geared towards of the outcome of this exercise. major and complex capital projects with signifi- On regional advisory councils, these are stake- cant ongoing maintenance requirements, that is, holder-led organisations and include represen- projects having a capital cost of \20 million or tation of all the interests affected by the Common more. The advice is that the PPP model should Fisheries Policy, while recognising the primacy of only be used where it is appropriate and where it fishing interests given the effects on them of man- can deliver value for money. Conversely, it would agement decisions and policies. I am satisfied that not be appropriate where the transaction costs of the interests of the aquaculture sector can be pursuing a PPP are disproportionate to the value effectively represented in the councils and I am of the project. pleased that the sector is actively interested in The policy framework for PPP schemes in the getting involved in the work of the councils. local government sector issued by the Depart- ment of the Environment, Heritage and Local Swimming Pool Projects. Government in November last, and implementing 331. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, guidelines from the Department of Finance, are Sport and Tourism his Department’s position in detailed and complex, in implementation terms. relation to funding for local authority run swim- The scale of project costs in the LASPP are in ming pools when such pools need refurbishment the region of \8 million and would not be seen, or need to be replaced; if it is within the remit of therefore, as being of sufficiently high cost to jus- 517 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 518 tify the extra resources involved in pursuing a for- things, how the programme has worked to date, mal PPP approach. Indeed, the Department of the benefits which have accrued to areas where Finance confirmed some time ago that there were pools have been built and what amendments, if several considerations which would militate any, are required to ensure the effective and against a PPP approach in this programme and efficient delivery of the programme. It is hoped that pool projects do not strictly comply with the to have this review completed later this year. definition of a viable PPP in terms of scale and The closing date for receipt of applications optimal transfer of risk to the private sector. under the current round of the local authority Where local authorities require to raise loans, swimming pool programme was 31 July 2000 and section 106 of the Local Government Act 2001, since then 55 applications have or are being dealt allows for borrowing of money by local auth- with under the programme. Of these applications, orities, subject to ministerial approval. In the case 17 are for new pools in greenfield sites, 24 for of borrowings in respect of local authority swim- replacement pools and 14 for the refurbishment ming pool projects, my Department seeks advice of existing pools. from the Department of the Environment, Heri- Under the programme, there are four principal tage and Local Government on the ability of the stages in the approval process of a swimming pool relevant local authority to repay the loan. project: feasibility study-preliminary report, con- It is important to bear in mind that the LASPP tract documents, tender and construction. Grant- is merely a grant scheme and it is a matter for aid is only approved when the tender is approved local authorities to devise funding and oper- for a project and is at a grant rate of 80% of the ational arrangements as they see fit, to com- eligible cost of the project. Projects developed in plement the grant element. Experience shows areas designated as disadvantaged, however, that there is potential for private sector involve- qualify for financial support at 90% subject, in ment in the provision and operation of local auth- both cases, to a maximum grant of \3.8 million. ority swimming pool facilities and many local Because of the long lead-time associated with authorities are exploring various ways of involv- swimming pool projects, it can take some time for ing the private sector in their projects. From my projects to proceed through the various stages of Department’s perspective, there is no objection development. Of the 55 projects: 13 swimming to the involvement of the private sector provided pool projects have been opened or have com- the generally accepted operational considerations pleted construction work; five projects are at con- of a public pool form part of the project. struction phase; 37 other applications are at var- The expenditure review of the LASPP, which ious stages in the process; four are at tender is underway in my Department, will input into stage; 18 are at contract document stage; and 15 the formulation of future policy in this area. This are at preliminary report stage. review is examining, among other things, how the Projects are considered on a case-by-case basis existing programme has worked to date, the and consideration is given to such issues as to benefits which have accrued where pools have whether the area is classified as disadvantaged, been built and what changes, if any, are required the viability of the project, particularly in relation to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of to operational and maintenance issues, overall the programme. funding package for the project, technical details, the number and geographical spread of projects 334. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, within and between counties. The Department’s Sport and Tourism the assessment his Depart- annual Estimates provision for the programme ment has made in regard to swimming pools in has a significant influence on the approval the country in relation to refurbishment or process. replacement or the provision of new pools; the As the Deputy will be aware, the Revitalising number of applications with his Department with Areas through Planning, Investment and regard to the provision of new pools; the number Development — RAPID — programme aims to in regard to the replacement of existing pools; if target the most disadvantaged areas of the coun- there is a priority list in regard to such lists; if so, try for enhanced development. No additional if such a list is available; the way in which it can funding has been set aside for the programme but be obtained; the effect which an area or town rather these areas are prioritised for support with designated RAPID status has on such assess- within existing budgets. ments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17156/04] 335. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department had consul- Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. tations with Kildare County Council in regard to O’Donoghue): My Department has commenced the funding of the proposed works at Athy and an expenditure review of the local authority Naas swimming pools; if his Department has com- swimming pool programme, the outcome of mitted funding for these works; the position which will be used to assist in formulating future regarding the application; if his Department has policy. This review is examining, among other agreed with the design proposals in regard to 519 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 520

[Mr. Wall.] Question No. 337 answered with Question both proposals; and if he will make a statement No. 335. on the matter. [17157/04] Performing Arts. 337. Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when funding will be provided 338. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, to replace the existing swimming pool at Athy, Sport and Tourism the position in regard to the County Kildare; when the project can proceed to promise in the joint programme of the early tender stage; and if he will make a statement on establishment of an Irish academy for the per- the matter. [17491/04] forming arts; and the location in County Kerry at which this academy will be located. [17551/04] Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue): I propose to take Questions Nos. Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. 335 and 337 together. O’Donoghue): Capital funding is not currently Kildare County Council submitted to my available to progress the development of an Irish Department the contract documents for the academy for the performing arts. replacement of the swimming pools in both Athy and Naas. This documentation has been exam- Electronic Communications. ined by my Department’s technical advisers, the 339. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Office of Public Works, and is now under con- Sport and Tourism if all public services provided sideration in my Department. by his Department that are capable of electronic delivery are available electronically through a sin- Sports Capital Programme. gle point of contact, as was promised in the joint 336. Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Arts, programme; and if not, if he will make a state- Sport and Tourism the reason a grant which was ment or explanation in respect of each service not promised by his Department to a club, details yet so provided. [17563/04] supplied, in County Limerick has not been Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. awarded; and if he will make a statement on the O’Donoghue): The electronic delivery of services matter. [17201/04] through a single point of contact is being pro- Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. gressed through the framework of the public ser- O’Donoghue): A grant of \100,000 was pro- vices broker and the Reach agency, which reports visionally allocated to the club in question under to the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the 2002 sports capital programme operated by is charged with responsibility for its design and my Department. Approval of grants under the development. sports capital programme are subject to recipients It is intended to launch the first stage of the meeting the terms and conditions of the public services broker at the end of this month. programme. This will be a public facing website, to be known The club in question was advised in May 2002 as reachservices.ie, designed to act as a single of the conditions to be met and the docu- point of access to a range of services offered by mentation required by my Department to the Irish public service. Initially, reachservices.ie approve the grant. Among the conditions will provide access in the form of links to forms required is the execution of a deed of covenant or on-line services provided on other websites. and charge, which provides, inter alia, for a Reach is in discussion with a number of refund of grants in the event of the facility not Departments, including my Department, and continuing to be used for the purpose for which agencies in relation to the range of on-line ser- the grant was allocated. The deed of covenant vices, combining a number of the new capabili- and charge is invoked by my Department’s legal ties, which will be launched with the next phase advisers, the Chief State Solicitor’s office, CSSO. of development of reachservices.ie in the autumn. Payment of the grant due can only proceed when the deed of covenant and charge is in place. The Departmental Expenditure Review. club’s solicitors are currently dealing with the 340. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, CSSO in attempting to finalise the deed. Sport and Tourism if his Department has The grant cannot be formally confirmed or any achieved the target, set out in the initiation of the payment made until all of the required docu- expenditure review initiative in 1997, that all mentation has been submitted to my Department Government expenditure be subject to a formal and found to be in order. In addition to the first review under that initiative every three years; and formal written notification in this regard in May if not, the areas of expenditure in respect of 2002, the club was further advised in May 2003 which the three yearly review has not taken and again in May 2004 of the other outstanding place. [17578/04] documentation required by my Department in order to have the grant confirmed. To date, this 341. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, documentation has not been submitted. Sport and Tourism the areas of expenditure of his 521 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 522

Department in respect of which an expenditure the sports capital programme; the amount of review under the expenditure review initiative other funding it may have received from his has not yet been completed and published. Department; and the annual breakdown of this [17593/04] funding, that is, when it was allocated and when it was drawn down. [17609/04] Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue): I propose to take questions Nos. Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. 340 and 341 together. O’Donoghue): The national lottery funded sports The initial target of the expenditure review capital programme, which is administered by my initiative, ERI, was to review all expenditure pro- Department, allocates funding to sporting and grammes over a three year period. However, a community organisations at local, regional and review of the process by the Department of Fin- national level throughout the country. ance expenditure review central steering commit- The club in question has been allocated three tee, ERCSC, in 2000-01 found that this target had grants under the sports capital programme: been over-ambitious and that a more focused \634,869 in 2000, \634,869 in 2001 and \1,300,000 approach to the selection of review topics was in 2002. No other allocation of funding has been required. This view was supported by a made to this club by my Department. Comptroller and Auditor General value for Of the funding allocated, \1,206,251 was paid money study of the ERI in 2001 which proposed to the club in 2001 and a further \1,235,000 was that a more realistic target should be set that took paid in 2002. These payments combined represent into account the level of evaluative capacity in 95% of the total grants allocated; the remaining departments generally. 5%, in this case \128,487, is retained in accord- In June 2001 the Government decided, inter ance with standard practice pending the receipt of alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- certification of completion of the defects liability ual Departments-offices should compile and period of the project. agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- ific selection criteria, that is, that programmes 343. Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Arts, selected for review should reflect Government Sport and Tourism the funding allocated to the priorities or strategic result areas, involve signifi- FAI and its affiliates on an annual basis under cant levels of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, in the sports capital programme since the pro- May 2002, the Government approved a schedule gramme commenced. [17610/04] of expenditure review topics proposed for the first year of the next three-year planning horizon Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. — 2002-04 — and noted the topics proposed for O’Donoghue): The national lottery-funded sports 2003 and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC asked capital programme, which is administered by my Departments-offices to update their expenditure Department, allocates funding to sporting and review plans, again in consultation with the community organisations at local, regional and Department of Finance. The committee empha- national level throughout the country. The pro- sised the Government’s selection criteria and gramme is advertised on an annual basis. advised that Departments-offices should select a The Football Association of Ireland, the gov- small number of programmes-areas involving erning body for soccer in Ireland, has been allo- cated two sports capital grants of \225,000 in 2003 major policy issues or significant levels of expen- \ diture. On foot of this process, revised expendi- and 100,000 in 2004 towards the provision of ture review plans were drawn up by Depart- equipment required for the FAI’s development ments-offices. programmes. My Department’s updated expenditure review I have listed below the funding allocations plan for 2003 and 2004 includes five reviews as since 1998 to projects classified as soccer projects, follows: the sports capital programme expendi- which would include Eircom League clubs, dis- ture review is currently being finalised; the swim- trict junior and schoolboy leagues and clubs and ming pools programme expenditure review is also some municipal community soccer facilities. proceeding; the sports tourism initiative expendi- \ million ture review has been deferred pending consider- ation by the Department of the outcome of the 1998 0.89 review of the initiative currently being conducted 1999 4.10 by Fa´ilte Ireland; and expenditure reviews of the 2000 6.92 Irish Sports Council and the Irish Film Board are due to be undertaken in 2004. 2001 8.62 2002 19.98 Sports Capital Programme. 2003 9.17 342. Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of funding In relation to the 2004 sports capital programme, granted to a football club, details supplied, under I announced on 7 May provisional funding allo- cations totalling \50.8 million, of which \8.05 523 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 524

[Mr. O’Donoghue.] people, property and business and incorporating million was to soccer projects. I will shortly be risk assessment and mitigation strategies. making further announcements under the 2004 Contemporaneous with the publication of the programme in respect of funding for projects of report the Flynn group invited the Secretary Gen- major significance which, while meeting local eral of the Department to meet to discuss the needs, will also add considerably to the national issues arising for the Department. That meeting and regional sporting infrastructure which is took place on 3 June 2004. Following this meeting required both for increasing levels of partici- at which relevant issues central to the implemen- pation and improving standards of performance. tation plan were discussed, the plan was finalised and considered by the management advisory Decentralisation Programme. committee of my Department. The plan was fur- 344. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, nished to the decentralisation group on 10 June Sport and Tourism the reason the decentralis- 2004. ation implementation plan of his Department was not completed within the time limit set. Appointments to State Boards. [17766/04] 345. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. Sport and Tourism the appointments that have O’Donoghue): As the Deputy will be aware, the been made to State boards and bodies within his report of the Decentralisation Implementation Department from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004; Group, dated 31 March 2004, requested each the persons appointed; and the persons they are Department to prepare its own implementation replacing. [17800/04] plan in the light of the report. My Department Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. immediately set about this task, listing the issues O’Donoghue): The information requested by the which required to be addressed in terms of Deputy is as follows:

Arts Council **

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Olive Braiden — Chair 14 August 2003 Patrick J. Murphy — Chair Jerome Hynes — Deputy Chair 14 August 2003 Noel Crowley Noelle Campbell Sharp Proinsias MacAonghusa Theo Dorgan Se´amus O´ Cinne´ide John McGahern Maud Cotter Orlaith McBride T.V. Honan Philip King Ma´ire Nı´ Riain Willie Doherty Carlo Ge´bler Mary Nunan Clare Duignan Rosaleen Linehan Siobha´nNı´ E´ anaigh Mary Brady Brendan Flynn Dr Thomas Mitchell Dr Jane O’Leary Patrick Sutton 14 August 2003 * U´ na O´ Murchu´ 14 August 2003 * Emer O’Kelly 14 August 2003 *

*Reappointed ** The Arts Act 2003 reduced the board of the Arts Council from 17 to 13 members, including the Chairperson

Abbey Theatre

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Eithne Healy 26 May 2003 * Dr John O’Mahony S.C. 26 May 2003 Deirdre Purcell *Reappointed

Irish Film Board

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A 525 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 526

Music Board of Ireland

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A

National Concert Hall

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A

National Museum of Ireland Caretaker Board

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A

National Museum of Ireland and Botanic Gardens Board of Visitors

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A

Irish Museum of Modern Art

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Gerard Mannix Flynn 20 January 2004 Eoghan Harris

National Gallery

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

The Duke of Abercorn K.G. 21 May 2003 The Earl of Belmore Pauline Bewick 18 December 2003 Geraldine Hone Bernard McNamara 18 December 2003 K.C. Rohan Dr. Abdul Bulbulia 18 December 2003 Andrew O’Connor

National Archives Advisory Council

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A

Irish Manuscript Commission

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Prof. JFM Lydon 27 May 2003 * Prof. DW Harkness 27 May 2003 * Dr Mary Daly 27 May 2003 * Dr Anngret Simms 27 May 2003 * Dr Mary O’Dowd 27 May 2003 * Prof. Nicholas Canny 27 May 2003 * James McGuire — Chairman 28 May 2003 Prof. Geoffrey J. Hand *Reappointed 527 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 528

National Library

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Jim O’Shea 17 December 2003 Brian Murphy

Chester Beatty Library

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Madeline O’Sullivan 7 May 2003 Freda Hayes Louise O’Mahony 20 April 2004 Noreen Slattery

Marsh’s Library

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment No appointments

N/A N/A

Irish Sports Council

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Sheila Dickson 1 July 2003 Sine´ad Behan Niall Quinn 29 September 2003 Jerry O’Dwyer Marian McGennis 29 September 2003 Helen O’Rourke

Bord Na gCon

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Helen Nugent 24 January 2003 * Luke Mulligan John Hegarty 24 January 2003 Noel O’Driscoll Cathal Curley 24 January 2003 ** Tony McKenna 29 January 2004 Bob Roberts Pa´draic Feeney 29 January 2004 Tom Griffin Paschal Taggart (Chairman) 25 February 2004 ** * Reappointed on 29th January 2004 **Reappointed on 25th February 2004

Horse Racing Ireland

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Jessica Harrington 18th December 2003 * Cahir O’Sullivan 18th December 2003 Michael Osbourne Frank Clarke 18th December 2003 Ray Rooney * Reappointed

Campus & Stadium Ireland Development Ltd. (CSID)

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A 529 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 530

Fa´ilte Ireland (established on 28th May 2003)

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Mary McKeon 28 May 2003 Patrick O’Donoghue 28 May 2003 Gillian Bowler (Chair) 28 May 2003 Dominic Dillane 28 May 2003 John McDonnell 28 May 2003 Catherine Reilly 28 May 2003 Noel McGinley 28 May 2003 Pa´draig O´ Ce´idigh 28 May 2003 Maureen Cairnduff 28 May 2003 Eithne Scott-Lennon 28 May 2003 Noel O’Callaghan 28 May 2003 Pa´idi O´ Se´ 28 May 2003 Brian Dowling 28 May 2003

Bord Fa´ilte (Ceased to Exist in May 2003)

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Noel McGinley (Chairman) 1st April 2003 * Patrick O’ Donoghue 1st April 2003 * Pa´idı´ O´ Se´ 1st April 2003 * Se´an Dunne 1st April 2003 * *Reappointed until 28th May 2003

CERT (Ceased to Exist in May 2003)

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

No appointments N/A N/A

Tourism Ireland *

Name of Appointee Date of Appointment Person replaced

Gillian Bowler 28th May 2003 Shaun Quinn 28th May 2003 *There are currently 12 members on the board of Tourism Ireland. By virtue of being a North-South body, appointments to the Board of Tourism Ireland are made on a joint North-South basis by the North-South Ministerial Council. The period of appointment of the first Board has been extended by the North-South Ministerial Council for a further year to December 2004.

Health Board Services. raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him as a matter of urgency. 346. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an occupational therapy Medicinal Products. report in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be arranged; if the home 347. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for supports and appliances required for the person Health and Children if his attention has been will be provided without delay; and if he will drawn to concerns regarding the use of a new make a statement on the matter. [17154/04] class of anti-depressants known as SSRIs; his views on whether warnings should be issued Minister of State at the Department of Health regarding their dangers; and if he will make a and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy will statement on the matter. [17170/04] be aware, the provision of health services in the Carlow area is, in the first instance, the responsi- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): bility of the South Eastern Health Board. My The Irish Medicines Board is the statutory body Department has, therefore, asked the chief responsible for the regulation of medicinal prod- executive of the board to investigate the matter ucts in Ireland. 531 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 532

[Mr. Martin.] Hospital Waiting Lists. The board, in consultation with its European 350. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health colleagues, has continuously monitored the safety and Children when a person (details supplied) in of the class of medicines known as selective sero- County Mayo will be called for hip surgery. tonin re-uptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, since they [17173/04] were first licensed for the Irish market. The board has taken regulatory action on those products Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): when deemed necessary. I understand from the Western Health Board that Most recently, the board took part in a Europe- a reply was issued to the Deputy regarding the wide review of medicinal products containing case on 3 June 2004. paroxetine, which is one of the group of SSRIs which is used to treat mild to moderate Health Board Services. depression. That review was undertaken on the 351. Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for basis of safety concerns relating to those prod- Health and Children the number of children ucts. The board actively participated in that within the Northern Area Health Board area that review, which involved a complete benefit-risk re- are on the waiting list for orthodontic treatment; assessment, and concluded that the benefit-risk the number that have been on the waiting list for profile of products containing paroxetine remains more than 12 months; the length of time it will positive. Several recommendations were made take to clear the waiting list with current for inclusion on the product’s licence documents, resources; and if he intends to make orthodontic the purpose of which was to harmonise the infor- treatment available through the treatment pur- mation on those products across member states. chase scheme. [17174/04] I am informed that the majority of those recom- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): mendations are already reflected on the licence As the Deputy is aware, the provision of ortho- documentation currently approved in Ireland. dontic services is a matter for the health boards That documentation includes special warnings or authority in the first instance. and precautions for use, particularly regarding I am pleased to advise the Deputy that I have the need for close monitoring of patients using taken a number of measures to improve ortho- medicinal products containing paroxetine. dontic services in the Northern Area Health The board will continue actively to monitor the Board, or NAHB, area of the Eastern Regional safety of all medicinal products licensed for use Health Authority, or ERHA, and on a national in Ireland, evaluate all new scientific data that basis. emerge and take any regulatory action deemed The grade of specialist in orthodontics has been appropriate. created in the health board orthodontic service. In 2003, my Department and the health boards Hospital Services. funded 13 dentists from various health boards for 348. Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health specialist in orthodontics qualifications at training and Children if he will investigate the case of a programmes in Ireland and at three separate uni- person (details supplied) in County Cork. versities in the United Kingdom. Those 13 [17171/04] trainees for the public orthodontic service are additional to the six dentists who commenced Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): their training in 2001. Thus, there is an aggregate The provision of hospital services for people liv- of 19 dentists in specialist training for orthodon- ing in County Cork is a matter for the Southern tics, including five from the ERHA. Those Health Board. My Department has, therefore, measures will complement the other structural asked the chief executive officer of the Southern changes being introduced into the orthodontic Health Board to investigate the position on the service, including the creation of an auxiliary case and to reply directly to the Deputy. grade of orthodontic therapist to work in the orthodontic area. 349. Ms McManus asked the Minister for Furthermore, the commitment of the Depart- Health and Children the plans he has in place to ment to training development is manifested in the close operating theatres at the National funding provided to both the training of specialist Maternity Hospital during the summer of 2004; clinical staff and the recruitment of a professor the dates and times when those closures are to in orthodontics for the Cork Dental School. That take place; and if he will make a statement on the appointment at the school will facilitate the matter. [17172/04] development of an approved training programme leading to specialist qualification in orthodontics. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): The chief executive officer of the Southern Services at the National Maternity Hospital are Health Board has reported that the professor provided under an arrangement with the Eastern commenced duty on 1 December 2003. In recog- Regional Health Authority. My Department has, nition of the importance of that post at Cork therefore, requested the regional chief executive Dental School, my Department has given of the authority to investigate the matters raised approval in principle to a proposal from the by the Deputy and to reply to her directly. school further to substantially improve the train- 533 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 534 ing facilities there for orthodontics. That project ment purchase fund towards the treatment of per- should see the construction of a large orthodontic sons on the orthodontic waiting lists; the ERHA unit and support facilities; it will ultimately sup- received \1.815 million from that fund. My port an enhanced teaching and treatment service Department instructed the health boards and to the wider region under the leadership of the authority that the funding was to be allocated on professor of orthodontics. the basis of the following principles: treatment of Orthodontic initiative funding of \2.044 million clients longest on the waiting list in accordance was provided to the ERHA in 2001, and that has with the severity of their treatment need; allo- enabled the authority to recruit additional staff cation to provide additional treatment over and and build additional orthodontic facilities. The above what was provided in the normal way; authority has developed additional orthodontic efficiency and value for money; and equitable facilities at Loughlinstown, Ashtown and at the delivery across health board populations. The regional orthodontic unit located at St. James’s regional chief executive of the ERHA has Hospital. informed my Department of the following infor- In June 2002, my Department provided mation on the NAHB treatment waiting list at additional funding of \5 million from the treat- the end of March 2004:

Orthodontic Treatment Waiting List

Area Health Board Category A Average waiting Category B Average waiting time time

NAHB 62 < 12 2,334 < 24 months

The management of orthodontic waiting lists is Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): the statutory responsibility of the authority. The provision of health services for people living Therefore, my Department has asked the in County Carlow is a matter for the South East- regional chief executive of the authority to pro- ern Health Board. My Department has, there- vide the Deputy with the information requested fore, asked the chief executive officer of the regarding its waiting lists. South Eastern Health Board to investigate the Finally, the regional chief executive of the position on the case and to reply directly to the authority has informed my Department that, at Deputy. the end of the March quarter 2004, there were 3,782 children receiving orthodontic treatment in Health Board Services. the public orthodontic service in the ERHA. 354. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if a home help service will Health Board Allowances. be provided for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W in view of the extraordinary health 352. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for situation involved. [17177/04] Health and Children if the payment of enhanced subvention will be restored in the case of a person Minister of State at the Department of Health (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if he will and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy will investigate the circumstances of the case; and if a be aware, the provision of health services in the response will be expedited. [17175/04] Dublin 6 area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Western Area Health Minister of State at the Department of Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy will Regional Health Authority. My Department has, be aware, the provision of health services in the therefore, asked the chief executive of the auth- Kilkenny area is, in the first instance, the ority to investigate the matter raised by the responsibility of the South Eastern Health Board. Deputy and reply directly to him as a matter of My Department has, therefore, asked the chief urgency. executive of the board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a Alcohol Abuse. matter of urgency. 355. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consider the con- Nursing Home Subventions. cern expressed by a person (details supplied) 353. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for regarding alcohol abuse; and if he will make a Health and Children if the full cost of a private statement on the matter. [17178/04] nursing home will be covered for a person (details Minister of State at the Department of Health supplied) in County Carlow or a long-stay bed and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): National policy provided at St. Luke’s, Kilkenny, in view of the on the treatment of alcohol abuse, as set out in financial circumstances of their family and the Planning for the Future, stipulates that the serious medical circumstances; and if a decision emphasis in the management of alcohol-related will be expedited in the case. [17176/04] problems should be on community-based inter- 535 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 536

[Mr. T. O’Malley.] including general practitioner services, prescribed vention. Health boards already provide and con- drugs and medicines, all in-patient public hospital tinue to develop a range of comprehensive com- services in public wards, including consultants munity-based support services appropriate to the services, all out-patient public hospital services, needs of persons affected and afflicted by alcohol including consultants services, dental, ophthalmic abuse. Those services include family support and and aural services and appliances and a maternity community, medical and social services in the and infant care service. management of the problem. Persons in category 2, that of non-medical card The main therapeutic tools in the treatment of holders, are entitled, subject to certain charges, alcohol dependence are psychotherapy, coun- to all in-patient public hospital services in public selling, and family and marital therapy, either wards, including consultants’ services and out- individually or in group settings. Therapy may patient public hospital services, including consult- take place in a residential or a day setting. As ants’ services. The current public hospital statu- alcohol-related problems occur, in many tory in-patient charge is \45 per night, up to a instances, in local and family settings, the com- \ munity-based response can be direct and early, maximum of 450 in any 12 consecutive months. thereby reducing the associated levels of physical, Attendance at accident and emergency depart- \ psychological and social problems. ments is subject to a charge of 45 where the pati- The health promotion unit of my Department ent does not have a referral note from his or her is involved in a range of initiatives aimed at doctor. That charge applies only to the first visit preventing and reducing alcohol-related harm. in any episode of care. One such initiative was the establishment of a Under the Health Act 1970, the determination strategic task force on alcohol in January 2002 to of eligibility for health services is the responsi- recommend evidence-based measures to Govern- bility of the chief executive officer of the appro- ment, aimed at reducing and preventing alcohol- priate health board, and neither I nor my Depart- related harm. Following a comprehensive review ment have a function in the matter. Alternatively, of the most effective alcohol policy measures by one can opt to be the private patient of both the international experts, an interim report was pub- consultant and the hospital. Any patient, whether lished in May 2002. A second report, containing a medical card holder or not, who opts for treat- further recommendations, will be published in the ment in a private hospital or as a private patient near future. An interdepartmental group has in a public hospital is liable for the costs relating been established to co-ordinate responses to the to such treatment. I would like to add that health recommendations. boards have discretion, in cases of exceptional The health promotion unit of my Department need, to provide assistance to individuals where has provided funding to the Irish College of Gen- undue hardship would otherwise be caused. eral Practitioners, or ICGP, to implement an alcohol-aware practice project. The main aim of Persons suffering from specified conditions, the project is to assist the GP to be more effective including acute leukaemia, who are not already in helping patients with alcohol problems. medical card holders, may obtain without charge Legislation is currently being drafted in my drugs and medicines for the treatment of that Department to reduce the over-exposure of condition under the long-term illness scheme. young people to alcohol advertising and market- There are no plans at this time to amend the long- ing practices. term illness scheme to include persons with other forms of cancer. Health Board Services. Since the implementation of the national can- cer strategy commenced in 1997, there has been 356. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health \ and Children the extra entitlements and assist- a total cumulative investment of 550 million in ance that are made available to persons suffering the development of appropriate treatment and from various forms of cancer; and if he will make care services for people with cancer. The benefit a statement on the matter. [17205/04] of that investment is reflected in the significant increase in staffing and activity which has Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): occurred. For example, the investment has Entitlement to health services in Ireland is pri- enabled the funding of an additional 91 consult- marily based on residency and means. Any per- ant posts in key areas of cancer care such as medi- son, regardless of nationality, who is accepted by cal oncology, radiology, palliative care and gen- the health boards as being ordinarily resident in eral surgeons with a special interest in breast Ireland is entitled to either full eligibility, cate- \ gory 1 — i.e. medical card holders — or limited surgery. In addition approximately 90 million eligibility, category 2, for health services. Health has been invested in oncology infrastructure, boards normally regard a person as ordinarily including specialist equipment in radiation resident in Ireland if he or she satisfies the health oncology, mammography, radiology and pathol- board that it is his or her intention to remain in ogy. The recruitment and training of specialist Ireland for a minimum period of one year. staff and the utilisation of equipment is a matter Persons in category 1 are medical card holders, for individual health boards and the Eastern and they are entitled to a full range of services, Regional Health Authority, or ERHA. 537 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 538

Health Board Staff. the position on the case and to reply directly to the Deputy. 357. Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason that the Western Health Benchmarking Awards. Board has not made to retired radiographers back payments granted to them under the expert 361. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health review agreement; if his attention has been drawn and Children if a home help (details supplied) in to the fact that the payment was made by the Dublin 12 is entitled to benchmarking increases; Eastern Regional Health Authority six months and if he will make a statement on the matter. ago; when he expects those payments to be made; [17261/04] and if he will make a statement on the matter. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): [17242/04] The details supplied by the Deputy are not suf- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): ficient to allow a full reply to issue. My Depart- Responsibility for the payment of increases to ment has been in contact with the Deputy with a radiographers arising from the expert group on view to seeking further information. radiography grades rests with the chief executive officer of each board. My Department has there- Smoking Ban. fore asked the chief executive officer of the West- 362. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health ern Health Board to investigate the matter raised and Children if, in regard to the smoking ban, by the Deputy and reply to him directly. residents in group homes are permitted to smoke; and if the staff who care for them are permitted Health Board Services. to smoke. [17270/04] 358. Ms McManus asked the Minister for Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Health and Children the position regarding the The smoke-free workplaces measures apply, with case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; limited exceptions, to all enclosed places of work. when they can expect to be called; and if he will The exemptions are specified in the Public Health make a statement on the matter. [17249/04] (Tobacco) (Amendment) Act 2004, and where a residential group home, as referred to by the Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Deputy, meets the requirements so specified an Responsibility for the provision of health services exemption will apply. A decision to allow the to persons living in counties Dublin, Kildare and smoking of tobacco products in exempted prem- Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health ises is a matter for the management of the prem- Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked ises concerned. However, the fact that a premises the regional chief executive of the authority to is exempted does not confer a right to smoke in investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and that location, and neither does it affect the duty to reply to her directly. of care that an employer has in respect of his or her employees. Hospital Services. 359. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health Medical Cards. and Children if he will investigate the way in 363. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health which a person (details supplied) contracted and Children his proposals to provide for drivers MRSA; the steps taken to address the issue; and over 70 years having medical examinations on if he will make a statement on the matter. their medical cards regarding their eligibility to [17259/04] drive; and if he will make a statement on the mat- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): ter. [17287/04] Responsibility for the provision of hospital ser- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): vices to residents of Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow Medical card holders are eligible for a range of rests with the Eastern Regional Health Auth- treatments and services without charge under the ority. My Department has, therefore, requested GMS scheme. However, the issue of certificates the regional chief executive of the authority to to any medical card holder, regardless of age, for investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and medical examinations required for a driving to reply to him directly. licence, may incur charges. I do not have any 360. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health plans to change the current system. and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been advised for Adoption Services. the second time that they will not be admitted to 364. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Beaumont Hospital, Dublin. [17260/04] Health and Children the reason that some per- sons have waited as long as four years for a Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): decision from the Adoption Board before being The provision of hospital services for people liv- refused on the grounds of age; the details of the ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western age criteria which apply; and if he will undertake Health Board. My Department has asked the a full examination of the methods of the Adop- chief executive officer of the board to investigate tion Board with a view to making significant 539 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 540

[Mr. Gormley.] research — including new emerging issues — on changes to procedures to avoid unnecessary all aspects of fluoride and its delivery methods as delays which may cause hurt for future prospec- an established health technology; and as required tive parents. [17290/04] to report to the Minister on matters of concern at his or her request or on its own initiative. Minister of State at the Department of Health The expert body has broad representation, and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan): Assessments for including from the areas of public health medi- inter-country and domestic adoptions are carried cine, engineering, management, environmental out by health boards or by registered adoption protection, environmental health, dentistry, and societies. At the outset of the process, applicants health promotion. I am pleased to inform the are placed on a health board or adoption society Deputy that the body has a strong consumer waiting list for assessment. The waiting list for input in members of the public and representa- assessment varies throughout the country. The tives of consumer interests, in addition to the assessment process itself involves a number of necessary scientific, managerial and public health stages and would generally include an initial inputs. That diversity of backgrounds will enable assessment, a considerable level of education or the expert body to carry out its work effectively. preparation work, including an exploration with The membership of the Irish expert body on prospective adoptive parents of the challenges fluorides and health as at its inaugural meeting and issues likely to arise when undertaking adop- was as follows: Dr. Seamus O’Hickey, chairman, tion, and a home study assessment. The purpose Dr. Wayne Anderson, Dr. Paul Beirne, Professor of the assessment process is to determine whether William Binchy, Councillor Jack Bourke, Pro- applicants are suitable to adopt a child, and the fessor John Clarkson, Mr. Enda Falvey, Mr. Oli- length of the process can vary between applicants, ver Fogarty, Ms Dorothy Gallagher, Dr. Gerard depending on the particular circumstances of Gavin, ex officio, Mr. Denis Lyons, Mr. Stephen each case, bearing in mind at all times the best McDermott, Mr. David Moloney, ex officio, Dr. interests of the child. Joe Mullen, Ms Ursula O’Dwyer, Dr. Brian An applicant’s file is sent to the Adoption O’Herlihy, Professor Denis O’Mullane, Ms Biddy Board when the process is nearing finalisation. O’Neill, Mr. Darragh Page, Mr. Ray Parle, Ms While an applicant would not wait for four years Martina Queally, Mr. Rowland Reece, Mr. Matt for a decision from the Adoption Board, in some Twomey. cases the whole process from initial application to the Adoption Board making its decision may take Tribunals of Inquiry. that long. While there are no legal provisions regarding 366. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for upper age limits for either domestic or inter- Health and Children the cost to date of the country adoption, an applicant’s age may be Dunne inquiry. [17297/04] taken into consideration in the context of the 367. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for assessment as one of a number of factors Health and Children if the possible sale of body determining the applicant’s capacity to look after parts either within or outside the country is the the child throughout his or her childhood and to subject of investigation as part of the Dunne maintain an ongoing and meaningful relationship inquiry. [17298/04] with the child. 368. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Water Fluoridation. Health and Children if the judge and Senior Counsel investigating the organ retention issue 365. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for are working on the Dunne inquiry full-time. Health and Children the number of members [17299/04] who have been assigned to the expert group on fluoridation; and the names of those members. 369. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for [17296/04] Health and Children if he has received in recent weeks an interim or final report from the Dunne Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): inquiry. [17300/04] The expert body recommended by the forum has been established. The chairperson of the expert Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): body is Dr. Seamus O’Hickey, former chief den- I propose to take Questions Nos. 366 to 369, tal officer with my Department. Dr. O’Hickey’s inclusive, together. mix of scientific knowledge, awareness of fluori- The cost to the end of May 2004 of the Dunne dation issues and experience of administrative inquiry is \15.3 million. The inquiry, under its issues leave him well placed to chair the body. terms of reference, will investigate and report on The expert body, to be known as the Irish expert the issue of the possible sale of body parts either body on fluorides and health, held its inaugural within or outside the country. I am informed that meeting in April last. senior counsel on the inquiry team are working The terms of reference of the expert body are: full-time on the business of the inquiry apart from to oversee the implementation of the recom- a very few exceptional outstanding cases with mendations of the forum on fluoridation; to which they must deal. There is no judge assigned advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing to the inquiry. 541 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 542

I await the chairman’s report on the paediatric Hospital Accommodation. hospitals. The chairman has informed me that, 372. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for with some exceptions, the information gathering Health and Children the progress in relation to regarding paediatric hospitals is complete, and phase 2B of Mullingar General Hospital. the issue of analysing the information and estab- [17324/04] lishing which matters remain in dispute has been concluded. The inquiry must now deal with the Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): resolution of matters in dispute and the con- The development control plan for the project was clusion of the report. That involves: communi- recently submitted by the Midland Health Board cation to participants of matters in dispute; writ- to my Department. The next stage is the appoint- ten evidence regarding matters in dispute; such ment of a design team to prepare tender docu- oral hearings as are necessary regarding matters mentation for the project. It is estimated that the in dispute; resolution of such matters; and the detailed design process will take approximately opportunity for participants to make submissions 24 months. The project is at present being con- sidered by my Department in the context of where the report proposes to make criticisms. determining capital priorities to be progressed for The inquiry further advises that it has at all 2004 and beyond, in line with overall funding times kept in mind the need to be in a position resources available. My Department will continue to proceed with its work regarding the maternity to liaise closely with the board on the matter. hospitals as soon as the paediatric hospitals report has been completed. The inquiry has Hospital Services. therefore continued to work in that regard to ensure that all documentation will be available to 373. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the inquiry when required. Preparation for Health and Children when the new 12-bed unit at reports on other hospitals continues, but the pri- Mullingar General Hospital, which has been fit- mary concern of the inquiry at present is the com- ted out since early 2003, will have the necessary pletion of the report on paediatric hospitals. staff compliment to enable the unit to open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17325/04] Adoption Services. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): 370. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Responsibility for the provision of services at the Health and Children the details of the entitle- Midland Regional Hospital at Mullingar rests ment of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 with the Midland Health Board. The com- to a judicial review of the decision to reject an missioning of the development remains under application to be considered as an adopter; and if consideration in my Department. he will respond to that person’s letter to him. [17310/04] Health Board Services. Minister of State at the Department of Health 374. Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan): It is open to any Health and Children if urgent assistance will be person seeking a judicial review of a decision by given to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3; the Adoption Board to reject his or her appli- the reason the dental clinic in Beaumont Hospital cation for an adoption order or declaration of is closed; and if he will make a statement on the suitability to adopt to apply to the High Court for matter. [17348/04] leave to bring a judicial review application. That Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): application may be made either by the individual Responsibility for the provision of services to direct or through a legal representative. I under- residents of Counties Dublin, Kildare and Wick- stand that the Adoption Board has been in con- low rests with the Eastern Regional Health Auth- tact with the named person on the matter. ority, and services at Beaumont Hospital are pro- A reply was issued to the named person by my vided under an arrangement with the authority. office on 7 May 2004. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to inves- Health Board Services. tigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to 371. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health reply to him directly. and Children when a person (details supplied) in Questions Nos. 375 and 376 withdrawn. County Mayo will be called to a dermatology clinic. [17312/04] Hospital Services. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): 377. Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for The provision of hospital services for people liv- Health and Children if his attention has been ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western drawn to the fact that the renal unit in Let- Health Board. My Department has asked the terkenny General Hospital is unable to treat chief executive officer of the board to investigate holidaymakers or visitors to Donegal who require the position regarding the case and to reply kidney dialysis treatment owing to the fact that directly to the Deputy. existing facilities are fully utilised; and if he has 543 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 544

[Mr. McGinley.] However, the authorities were not able to plans to provide the necessary resources to respond until the agreement had been ratified by extend the renal unit in Letterkenny to facilitate both parties. such emergencies. [17352/04] On 5 April 2004, immediately following ratifi- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): cation, the Irish ambassador to Vietnam met the Responsibility for the provision of services at Let- authorities to open discussions on implemen- terkenny General Hospital rests with the North tation of the agreement and to present the issues Western Health Board. My Department has raised by the Adoption Board. A delegation from asked the chief executive officer of the board to the Adoption Board travelled to Vietnam on 19 investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and April to meet the officials of the new adoption to reply to him directly. authority which has just been set up in Vietnam to oversee inter-country adoption, to agree oper- Health Board Services. ational details with them and to visit several orphanages. The Vietnamese authorities iden- 378. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health tified their requirements, which included the and Children when respite care will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; nomination by the Irish Adoption Board of a faci- and if he will make a statement on the matter. litator whom they would approve. [17362/04] The delegation met possible candidates for that position and provided them with a document set- Minister of State at the Department of Health ting out the board’s requirements and standards and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy will for the post. There was significant lobbying here be aware, the provision of health services in the and in Vietnam. Interested parties were invited Kildare area is, in the first instance, the responsi- to apply and given time to consider the require- bility of the South Western Area Health Board ments of the post. Following receipt of appli- acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional cations, the Adoption Board established an inter- Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, view board on 12 May to interview the three asked the chief executive of the authority to candidates who presented themselves. investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him as a matter of urgency. The Adoption Board was correctly determined to hold an independent selection procedure Inter-Country Adoptions. which would result in a candidate being selected who would best meet the requirements of the 379. Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health Vietnamese and Irish authorities. The Vietna- and Children if he will examine a situation mese authorities were advised of the board’s whereby, there having been signed a bilateral nominee the next day, after the Adoption Board agreement for adoptions between Ireland and had approved the nominee. Under the bilateral Vietnam in September 2003 which was ratified on agreement it is a matter for the Vietnamese sov- 31 March 2004 and was due to come into effect ereign authorities to approve the nominee. Their 30 days later, the Adoption Board has only now decided, more than 200 days after the agreement approval is awaited. was signed and more than 50 days after the ratifi- Ireland is a signatory to the Hague convention cation, to interview facilitators; the reason the on inter-country adoption. The Adoption Board’s facilitators have to travel here for interview when procedures must conform to the spirit and letter the delegation from the Adoption Board was of that convention, which puts the best interest of already in Vietnam for at least seven days in the child at the centre of the process. I am very April 2004; the further reason it took such a long satisfied that the board has been exemplary and time after the delegation had returned from Viet- timely in its procedures. nam to interview facilitators; if it needed to inter- view facilitators, the reason that was not done by Drugs Payment Scheme. the delegation when it was in Vietnam; and the 380. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for objectives of the delegation going to Vietnam if Health and Children if he is proposing a change not to decide on facilitators and other issues. [17365/04] in the policy whereby the drugs refund scheme will apply to a person’s spending on medicines Minister of State at the Department of Health rather than to the family spending; the projected and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan): The bilateral cost saving to the State of such a move; and if he agreement between Ireland and Vietnam was will make a statement on the matter. [17400/04] negotiated by officials of the Adoption Board and my Department in March 2003. It was signed in Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): September and ratified on 31 March 2004. In I presume the Deputy is referring to the drugs November 2003, following the signing of the payment scheme, which replaced the drugs agreement, the Adoption Board sent a list of refund and drugs cost subsidisation schemes in issues to be clarified to the Vietnamese auth- 1999. The Deputy will be pleased to know that I orities, including Vietnamese requirements have no plans to amend the scheme for eligible regarding facilitation for Irish applications. family members. 545 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 546

Hospital Services. of health services, including speech and language therapy, to people with a physical or sensory dis- 381. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for ability is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health and Children if he has reviewed the Health Authority and the health boards in the spread of children’s hospital services through the first instance. Accordingly, the Deputy’s query Dublin region; if he has received proposals for has been referred to the chief executive officer the development of an accident and emergency of the Eastern Regional Health Authority for his department for children at Beaumont Hospital; attention and direct reply to the Deputy as a mat- and if he will make a statement on the matter. ter of urgency. [17401/04] Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Hospital Services. Responsibility for the provision of hospital ser- 385. Ms McManus asked the Minister for vices to children in the Dublin region rests with Health and Children if his attention has been the Eastern Regional Health Authority, and ser- drawn to the fact that patients under the age of vices at Beaumont Hospital are provided under 65 cannot avail of physiotherapy at Tallaght an arrangement with the authority. My Depart- Hospital; his views on whether that is unsatisfac- ment has, therefore, asked the regional chief tory; and his plans to improve the situation. executive of the authority to investigate the issue [17405/04] raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Medical Cards. Responsibility for the funding of services at the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, incorporating the 382. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght, rests with Health and Children the reason a person (details the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My supplied) in Dublin 16 has had their medical card Department has again asked the regional chief withdrawn; and if the card will be restored to executive of the authority to investigate the mat- them. [17402/04] ter raised by the Deputy and to reply to her Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): directly. Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive Cancer Incidence. officer of the relevant health board or authority. 386. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for My Department has therefore asked the chief Health and Children the action a person can take executive of the Eastern Regional Health Auth- to have a significant cluster of cancer in their area ority to investigate the matter raised by the investigated; the details of the procedure and the Deputy and to reply to her directly. agencies involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17408/04] Health Board Services. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): 383. Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for The investigation of a potential threat to public Health and Children when the additional health is a matter, in the first instance, for the resources will be made available to the North relevant health board or authority. Accordingly, Western Health Board so that the remaining four officials of my Department have referred the beds can be utilised in Donegal Hospice, Let- matter to the Eastern Regional Health Authority, terkenny; and if he will make a statement on the Mill Lane, Palmerstown, Dublin 20, for investi- matter. [17403/04] gation and direct reply. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of Medical Cards. health services in County Donegal is, in the first 387. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for instance, the responsibility of the North Western Health and Children if a medical card and domi- Health Board. The board has advised my Depart- ciliary care allowance will be issued to a person ment that the remaining four beds in Donegal (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. Hospice will be commissioned on 1 September [17420/04] 2004, and all the necessary arrangements are cur- rently being put in place to meet that deadline. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Responsibility for the provision of a medical card 384. Ms McManus asked the Minister for and for the granting of domicilary care allowance Health and Children if his attention has been is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive drawn to the fact that there is a one-year waiting officer of the relevant health board or authority. period for speech and language therapy for chil- My Department has therefore asked the CEO of dren in Bray and a four-year waiting period in the South Eastern Health Board to investigate Wicklow; if the recruitment embargo will be lifted the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to to ensure proper staffing; and if he will make a him directly. statement on the matter. [17404/04] 388. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Minister of State at the Department of Health Health and Children if a medical card will be and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The provision granted to a person (details supplied) in County 547 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 548

[Mr. McGuinness.] ment on commencing orthopaedic services at Carlow; and if a decision will be expedited in the Mayo General Hospital, particularly regarding case. [17421/04] the effect that the additional staffing required to commence services will have on the board’s cur- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): rent employment ceiling. Responsibility for the provision of a medical card I am committed to ensuring that the new ortho- is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive paedic services are established at Mayo General officer of the relevant health board or authority. Hospital at the earliest possible date. My Department has therefore asked the CEO of the South Eastern Health Board to investigate Departmental Correspondence. the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to 390. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health him directly. and Children if, further to Question No. 160 of 6 May 2004 and the failure of the CEO of the Mid- Hospital Services. Western Health board to reply, when an indepen- 389. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for dent report on the death of the person will be Health and Children when he proposes to issue available; and the reason for the delay. such approval of contracts as will enable an [17436/04] orthopaedic service to be provided at Castlebar Minister of State at the Department of Health Hospital; the access which exists for public and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): Responsibility patients in County Mayo orthopaedic surgery; if for the matter referred to by the Deputy rests his attention has been drawn to the distress being with the Mid-Western Health Board. My Depart- created and the urgency which attaches to the ment has therefore asked the chief executive matter; and if he will make a statement on the officer of the Mid-Western Health Board to reply matter. [17432/04] directly to the Deputy in the matter. 395. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount allocated in 2003 and Departmental Advertising. 2004 regarding funding provided for the ortho- 391. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for paedic unit for Mayo General Hospital; and the Health and Children the cost to date in 2004 of areas the funding was spent on. [17468/04] advertising to encourage take-up of the national 396. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health treatment purchase fund and of the full-year cost and Children the staff which have been appointed in 2003. [17437/04] for the orthopaedic unit for Mayo General Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Hospital. [17469/04] The cost incurred by the national treatment pur- chase fund, or NTPF, in 2003 in respect of adver- 397. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health tising and promotional activities was \1.58 mill- and Children when the orthopaedic unit in Mayo ion. The Deputy will be aware that those costs General Hospital will be opened and oper- include certain start-up costs for the NTPF which ational. [17470/04] were of a once-off nature in 2003. The cost to Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): date in 2004 for advertising and promotional I propose to take Questions Nos. 389 and 395 to activities is approximately \210,000. 397, inclusive, together. The new 33-bed orthopaedic unit will be a Hospital Services. particularly valuable addition to the hospital and 392. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health of great benefit to the people of Mayo. Funding and Children if the Eastern Regional Health of \3.9 million has already been provided to the Authority has agreed to fund Peamount Western Health Board to allow for the opening Hospital’s five-year strategy. [17446/04] of the orthopaedic service at Mayo General Hospital. 393. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health Currently one consultant orthopaedic surgeon and Children if the Eastern Regional Health has been recruited by the Western Health Board, Authority is currently funding Peamount the person taking up duty on 1 February 2004. Hospital for tuberculosis services; the length of The Western Health Board has informed me that time the current contract is to last; and if he will discussions between the orthopaedic staff in Gal- make a statement on the matter. [17447/04] way and Mayo are continuing in an effort to con- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): figure the best use of the facilities at Galway and I propose to take Questions Nos. 392 and 393 Mayo. Those discussions are taking place within together. a framework to develop an overall integrated As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for strategic and operational policy for orthopaedic the provision of services at Peamount Hospital services in the region. rests with the Eastern Regional Health Auth- As I have outlined above, substantial funding ority. Accordingly, my Department has asked the has already been provided to commission ortho- regional chief executive of the authority to exam- paedic services at Mayo. The Western Health ine the matters raised by the Deputy and to Board is currently in discussion with my Depart- respond to him directly. 549 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 550

Medical Cards. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): The identification, prioritisation and provision of 394. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for health centres to meet the health and personal Health and Children if a medical card will be social service needs of local communities are mat- issued to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; ters for the health boards or the Eastern Regional and if he will make a statement on the matter. Health Authority, or ERHA. In the case of St. [17464/04] Brigid’s Church Road clinic, Stillorgan, that Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): responsibility rests with the ERHA. Responsibility for the provision of a medical card My Department has asked the regional chief is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive executive of the ERHA to examine the situation officer of the relevant health board or authority. and reply directly to the Deputy. My Department has therefore asked the chief 402. Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health executive of the Eastern Regional Health Auth- and Children when long-term residential care will ority to investigate the matter raised by the be made available to a person (details supplied) Deputy and to reply to him directly. in County Cork in view of the fact that the geria- trician has recommended long-term care. Questions Nos. 395 to 397, inclusive, answered [17494/04] with Question No. 389. Minister of State at the Department of Health Hospital Waiting Lists. and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy will 398. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health be aware, the provision of health services in the and Children when a person (details supplied) in Cork area is, in the first instance, the responsi- County Kildare will receive a hospital appoint- bility of the Southern Health Board. My Depart- ment for their operation; and if he will make a ment has, therefore, asked the chief executive of statement on the matter. [17486/04] the board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him as a matter of Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): urgency. Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons residing in counties Dublin, Kildare 403. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional and Children the reason dental treatment has Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, been denied to a person (details supplied) in asked the regional chief executive of the auth- Dublin 11; and if he will make a statement on the ority to investigate the matter raised by the matter. [17500/04] Deputy and to reply to him directly. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Health Board Staff. Responsibility for the provision of dental treat- ment to eligible persons in Dublin 11 rests with 399. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Health and Children the way in which the health Department has asked the regional chief execu- board intends to provide adequate routine dental tive to investigate the matter raised by the services in St. Brigid’s Church Road clinic, Stillor- Deputy and to reply to him directly. gan, when the number of dentists working at the clinic will soon be halved. [17488/04] Hospital Waiting Lists. 400. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for 404. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health Health and Children if he will confirm that there and Children the reason a person (details are no plans to replace one of the two dentists supplied) in County Kildare who is awaiting an resigning from the St. Brigid’s Church Road operation has been continually postponed since clinic, Stillorgan. [17489/04] January 2004; his views on whether that is Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): unacceptable; and when the operation will be car- I propose to take Questions Nos. 399 and 400 ried out. [17501/04] together. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): The management of dental services in the Stil- Responsibility for the provision of health services lorgan area is the statutory responsibility of the to persons residing in counties Dublin, Kildare regional chief executive of the Eastern Regional and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has asked the Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, regional chief executive to investigate the matter asked the regional chief executive of the auth- raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly. ority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly. Health Board Services. 401. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Electronic Communications. Health and Children if he or his Department has 405. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for long-term plans for a clinic (details supplied) in Health and Children if all public services pro- view of the fact that it has recently been refur- vided by his Department that are capable of elec- bished. [17490/04] tronic delivery are available electronically 551 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 552

[Mr. J. Bruton.] services on-line facility, which will allow for the through a single point of contact, as was promised development of a single standardised delivery in the joint programme; and if not, if he will make mechanism for information and services in the a statement or explanation in respect of each ser- context of the health reform programme. That is vice not yet so provided. [17564/04] being done in full consultation with reachservice- s.ie to ensure a standardised approach to on-line Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): services. The new service will be launched later The main service provided directly to members in the year. of the public by my Department is the provision of life event — births, deaths and marriages — Expenditure Provisions. certificates by the General Register Office. Sig- nificant computerisation has taken place regard- 406. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for ing that process over the last few years in con- Health and Children if his Department has junction with the Department of Social and achieved the target, set out in the initiation of the Family Affairs, particularly with the launch of the expenditure review initiative in 1997, that all civil registration IT system in 2003. Government expenditure be subject to a formal The new civil registration IT system is currently review under that initiative every three years; and being rolled out to registration offices throughout if not, the areas of expenditure in respect of the country. The Civil Registration Act 2004, which the three-yearly review has not taken which was enacted in February 2004, provides the place. [17579/04] legislative basis for all remaining aspects of the 407. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for modernised civil registration service. The new Health and Children the areas of expenditure of electronic civil registration service provides infor- his Department in respect of which an expendi- mation systems, procedures to facilitate the elec- ture review under the expenditure review initiat- tronic registration of vital events including births, ive has not yet been completed and published. stillbirths, deaths and marriages, and the elec- [17594/04] tronic production of certificates. Historic records held by the General Register Office and the Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): associated indices have, as part of the overall I propose to take Questions Nos. 406 and 407 modernisation programme, been converted to an together. electronic format in a separate project in Ros- As the Deputy will be aware, the initial target common. That allows certificates to be obtained of the expenditure review initiative, or ERI, was at offices throughout the country rather than in to review all expenditure programmes over a the registration district where the event occurred three-year period. However, a review of the pro- or the General Register Office as heretofore. Fol- cess by the Department of Finance, and the lowing roll-out of the system, a person will also expenditure review central steering committee, or be able to register a birth, death or marriage at ERCSC, in 2000-01 found that the target had any registrar’s office. been over-ambitious and that a more focused The implementation of a modern civil regis- approach to the selection of review topics was tration service is at the heart of providing better required. That view was supported by a public services to citizens through the Govern- Comptroller and Auditor General value-for- ment’s modernisation programme. It is a key money study of the ERI in 2001, which proposed building block underpinning the integration of that a more realistic target should be set that took public service delivery and e-government objec- into account the level of evaluative capacity in tives of providing more convenient access to Departments generally. services. In June 2001, the Government decided, inter The General Register Office is working with alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- REACH, the public service broker, towards the ual Departments and offices should compile and introduction of on-line applications for certifi- agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- cates of entries in the registers of births, deaths ific selection criteria, i.e. that programmes selec- and marriages, which will be made available when ted for review should reflect Government priori- REACH launches the next phase of development ties or strategic result areas, involve significant of reachservices.ie in the autumn. levels of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, in May In the meantime, application forms for certifi- 2002, the Government approved a schedule of cates may be downloaded from the General expenditure review topics proposed for the first Register Office website, www.groireland.ie.In year of the next three-year planning horizon, addition, applications may be faxed to the Gen- 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed for 2003 eral Register Office, and payment may be made and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC asked by credit card. It is intended to launch the first Departments and offices to update their expendi- stage of the public services broker at the end of ture review plans, again in consultation with the this month, allowing for access to downloadable Department of Finance. The committee empha- application forms for life event certificates. sised the Government’s selection criteria and In addition, I have recently announced the advised that Departments and offices should sel- launch of a project to provide for a health portal, ect a small number of programmes or areas to be known as healthireland.ie, the Irish health involving major policy issues or significant levels 553 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 554 of expenditure. On foot of that process, revised In the circumstances, my Department has expenditure review plans were drawn up by requested the regional chief executive of the Departments and offices. ERHA to examine the matter and reply direct to In the case of the Department of Health and the Deputy. Children, it was agreed with the Department of Finance that, in the circumstances of the health Hospital Waiting Lists. reform programme and the demands associated 409. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health with its implementation, further expenditure and Children when a person (details supplied) in reviews under the expenditure review initiative, County Mayo will be called for cataract sur- or ERI, would not be initiated until 2005. gery. [17615/04] However, under the Department’s business plan policy review is an ongoing process. Reviews cur- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): rently under way include: a strategic review of The provision of hospital services for people liv- disability services; the work of the expert group ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western on mental health services; consultant contract Health Board. My Department has asked the negotiations, which include a review of consultant chief executive officer of the board to investigate provided services; an analysis by the acute the position on the case and to reply directly to hospitals review group of acute hospital services the Deputy. as part of preparing a national hospitals plan; and joint evaluation and review of service plan tem- National Health Strategy. plates with the Health Board Executive. 410. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Health In the context of the programme of expendi- and Children if his attention has been drawn to ture reviews for 2002, the issue of an expenditure the fact that, following a comprehensive consul- review of the general medical services scheme tation process in autumn 2003, the study design was raised. My Department agreed with the for the all-Ireland Traveller health study, as Department of Finance that the review of govern- recommended in the national Traveller health ance and accountability mechanisms in the GMS strategy of February 2002, was submitted to his schemes being undertaken by Deloitte and Tou- Department in January 2004, and the budget was che fulfilled the criteria of an expenditure review. subsequently approved; when the all-Ireland The Deloitte and Touche consultancy review of Traveller health study will commence; and if he governance and accountability mechanisms in the will make a statement on the matter. [17616/04] GMS schemes was received, in draft form, by my Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Department in February 2003. While the review The draft design for the Travellers’ all-Ireland was being considered by officials in my Depart- health study was submitted to my Department in ment, both the Commission on Financial Man- April 2004. Options for the procurement of the agement and Control Systems in the Health Ser- study are currently being considered, and it is vice, or Brennan, and the audit of structures and expected that the study will commence later this functions in the health system, or Prospectus, year. reports were published. Since the contents and recommendations of both reports are relevant to Ambulance Service. the subject matter of the GMS review, my Department requested Deloitte and Touche to 411. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health update the draft in that light, also having regard and Children if his attention has been drawn to to the latest financial data from the General the poor ambulance cover on the north side of Medical Services Payments Board. The final draft Dublin; the number of ambulances that are avail- of that review has been received by my Depart- able to Dublin’s north side; the typical number ment. It is my intention to bring that review to that are on duty at any one time; if he has satis- Government as soon as possible, at which time its fied himself with the level of cover; and if he will publication and implementation will be discussed. make a statement on the matter. [17622/04] Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Health Board Services. The question raised is appropriate to the Eastern 408. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Regional Health Authority and, accordingly, my Health and Children if the home nursing care for Department has asked the regional chief execu- a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 will be tive of the authority to investigate the matter and immediately restored; and if he will make a state- to reply directly to the Deputy. ment on the matter. [17611/04] Health Board Services. Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): The provision of home nursing services, and any 412. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health matters relating to such provision, within its func- and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for surgery on their tional area, is a matter for the relevant health ankle. [17623/04] board or the Eastern Regional Health Authority, or ERHA. In the case of Perrystown, Dublin 12, Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): that responsibility rests with the ERHA. The provision of hospital services for people liv- 555 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 556

[Mr. Martin.] is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western officer of the relevant health board authority. My Health Board. My Department has asked the Department has therefore asked the regional chief executive officer of the board to investigate chief executive of the Eastern Regional Health the position in relation to this case and to reply Authority to investigate the matter raised by the directly to the Deputy. Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Medical Cards. Home Help Services. 413. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for 418. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health Health and Children if a medical card will be and Children, further to Question No. 322 of 18 issued as a matter of urgency to a person (details May 2004, the proposals he has to ensure that supplied) in County Kilkenny on medical there will be no break in service for persons who grounds. [17624/04 have been provided with a home help on bank 414. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for holidays; and if he will make a statement on the Health and Children if an appeal for a medical matter. [17679/04] card in the name of persons (details supplied) in Minister of State at the Department of Health County Kilkenny will be expedited on medical and Children (Mr. Callely): The information grounds; and if he will make a statement on the sought by the Deputy is not readily available in matter. [17626/04] my Department. My Department has written to 415. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the chief executive officers of the Eastern Health and Children if a medical card will be Regional Health Authority and the health boards granted to a person (details supplied) in County and asked them to supply me with the relevant Kilkenny on medical grounds; and if a decision details which will be forwarded to the Deputy as will be expedited in this case. [17627/04] a matter of urgency. 426. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Hospital Sites. Health and Children if he will urgently examine the case of a person (details supplied) in County 419. Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Kilkenny. [17758/04] Health and Children , further to Question No. 262 of 11 May 2004, if he will identify the briefing Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): documents as agreed in relation to the study. I propose to take Questions Nos. 413 to 415, [17687/04] inclusive, and 426 together. Responsibility for the provision of a medical Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief As indicated in my reply of 11 May 2004, executive officer of the relevant health board approval has been given to the North Eastern authority. My Department has therefore asked Health Board to appoint a design team to prepare the chief executives of the South Eastern Health a feasibility study for Our Lady of Lourdes Board and the Eastern Regional Health Auth- Hospital, Drogheda. The purpose of the study ority to investigate the matters raised by the will be to identify the potential for future capital Deputy and to reply to him directly. developments at the site. The primary agreed briefing document relating Health Board Services. to the study is entitled Planning Brief for Feasi- bility Study — Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, 416. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Drogheda — Revision 3 — April 2004. This has Health and Children when a person (details been produced by the North Eastern Health supplied) in Dublin 5 will receive orthodontic Board and is a comprehensive and strategic docu- treatment. [17677/04] ment. The Deputy may wish to approach the Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): board if he requires further information in this Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic regard. treatment to eligible persons in Dublin 5 rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Health Board Services. Department has asked the regional chief execu- 420. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health tive to investigate the matter raised by the and Children the position regarding provision of Deputy and to reply to him directly. Alzheimer’s facilities at a hospital (details supplied) in County Limerick. [17688/04] Medical Cards. Minister of State at the Department of Health 417. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy is and Children if the application for a medical card aware, responsibility for the provision of health for persons (details supplied) in County Kildare services in the Limerick area rests with the Mid- will be approved; and if he will make a statement Western Health Board in the first instance. I have on the matter. [17678/04] visited the hospital in question and was made Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): aware of the board’s proposal to develop a 12- Responsibility for the provision of a medical card bed facility for older people with dementia and 557 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 558

Alzheimer’s disease. I understand that a brief was classed as a long-term illness; and if he will make prepared by the design team appointed for this a statement on the matter. [17740/04] project, under the direction of the project team, Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): which included representatives of the Mid-West- ern Health Board and my Department. Continu- Under the Health Act 1970, a health board may ing care and respite care facilities will be provided arrange for the supply, without charge, of drugs, to patients at the new unit. Planning permission medicines and medical and surgical appliances to for the proposed development has been obtained people with a specified condition, for the treat- from the local planning authority. ment of that condition, as per the long-term ill- The Mid-Western Health Board has submitted ness scheme. The conditions are: mental handi- documentation to my Department as regards this cap, mental illness — for people under 16 only project with a request for approval to seek ten- — phenylketonuria, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, ders for construction of the unit. A number of hydrocephalus, diabetes mellitus, diabetes queries arose out of this correspondence which insipidus, haemophilia, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, have now been addressed by the health board. multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophies, parkin- The project is now being considered by my sonism, conditions arising from thalidomide and Department as part of its overall capital invest- acute leukaemia. There are no plans to amend ment framework for 2004 to 2008 in consultation the list of eligible conditions. with the Department of Finance. Other schemes provide assistance towards the cost of approved drugs and medicines for people General Practitioner Co-operatives. with significant ongoing medical expenses. People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for 421. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health the provision of medical services for themselves and Children if the WestDoc service has been and their dependants may be entitled to a medical reviewed in the past number of months; if many card. Eligibility for a medical card is solely a mat- complaints have been received by his Depart- ter for the chief executive officer of the relevant ment or the Western Health Board regarding the health board. In determining eligibility, the CEO WestDoc service; and his views on whether this has regard to the applicant’s financial circum- service is running efficiently. [17689/04] stances. Health boards use income guidelines to Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): assist in determining eligibility. However, where a Responsibility for the provision of general prac- person’s income exceeds the guidelines, a medical titioner services for medical card holders, includ- card may be awarded if the CEO considers that ing the operation of out-of-hours co-operative the person’s medical needs or other circum- services, lies with the chief executive officer of stances would justify this. Medical cards may also the relevant health board. The matter raised by be issued to individual family members on this the Deputy has been referred to the chief execu- basis. Non-medical card holders and people with tive officer of the Western Health Board for conditions not covered under the LTI can use the investigation and direct reply. Information drugs payment scheme. Under this scheme, no received by my Department suggests that the ser- individual or family unit pays more than \78 per vice is running effectively with a high level of calendar month towards the cost of approved pre- patient satisfaction. scribed medicines.

Health Board Services. Hospital Services. 422. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for 424. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health Health and Children when a person (details and Children the location orthopaedic patients supplied) in County Roscommon will be called to who were due to be treated in the orthopaedic Beaumont Hospital; the reason for the delay; and unit in Mayo General Hospital will be sent for if he will make a statement on the matter. treatment, as this unit will not be opening on 1 [17720/04] July 2004 as promised; when persons will be called for their treatment; and if he will make a Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): statement on the matter. [17743/04] Responsibility for the provision of hospital ser- vices to residents of County Westmeath rests with Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): the Midland Health Board. My Department has, The provision of hospital services for people liv- therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western board to investigate the position in relation to this Health Board. My Department has asked the case and to reply to the Deputy directly. chief executive officer of the board to investigate the position in relation to the matter raised and Long-Term Illness Scheme. to reply directly to the Deputy. 423. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for 425. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health Health and Children if his attention has been and Children when and where a person (details drawn to the high cost of inhalers and medicines supplied) in County Mayo will receive their for asthma sufferers; if he will have asthma orthopaedic treatment. [17744/04] 559 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 560

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Services for People with Disabilities. The provision of hospital services for people liv- 428. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western Health and Children if a wheelchair will be pro- Health Board. My Department has asked the vided immediately to a person (details supplied) chief executive officer of the board to investigate in County Kilkenny in view of the fact that they the position in relation to this case and to reply have been approved for the chair some time ago; directly to the Deputy. the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17774/04] Question No. 426 answered with Question Minister of State at the Department of Health No. 413. and Children (Mr. Callely): As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Kilkenny area is, in the first instance, the Health Board Services. responsibility of the South Eastern Health Board. 427. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for My Department has, therefore, asked the chief Health and Children the reason an appointment executive of the board to investigate the matter was arranged and postponed for a person (details raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a supplied) in County Kilkenny at Beaumont matter of urgency. Hospital, Dublin; if an early appointment will be Departmental Appointments. expedited in order that this person can be assessed for the WADA list; and if he will make 429. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the appointments that have been a statement on the matter. [17759/04] made to State boards and bodies within his Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Department from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004; The provision of hospital services for people liv- the persons appointed; and the persons they are ing in County Kilkenny is a matter for the South replacing. [17801/04] Eastern Health Board. My Department has, Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the The persons appointed by me to State boards South Eastern Health Board to investigate the from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004 and the per- position in relation to this case and to reply sons who have been replaced are contained in the directly to the Deputy. following table.

Name of Board Appointees Lapsed/Resigned

Advisory Committee for Human John Kelly, Bernard Silke Professor Owen Corrigan, Dr Medicines Kathleen McGarry An Bord Altranais Simonetta Ryan Kieran Feely Adoption Board Margaret Dromey, Assumpta Hogan, Siobha´n Seagh MacSiurda´in, Michael Keogh, Terry Lynam Loane, Valerie O’Brien, Mulcahy Sharon O’Driscoll, Jim O’Sullivan, Orlaith Traynor, Fachtna Whittle Beaumont Hospital Board Marie Keane, Kitty O’Neill, Shane O’Neill, Dr Edmond Smyth, Professor James Liam C. Madden, Tom Noonan, Margaret Finucane, Mr Sea´n Haughey, Dr Richardson, Mary Cullen, Mavoureen O’Leary, Aidan Hampson, Mr G.V. Wright, Cathal Magee Matt Merrigan Board for the Employment of the Brendan Ingoldsby, Mary Kelly Des Kenny, Mary Mooney, Eamon O’Connor Blind Christopher McEvoy, Shira Mehlman, Mary Mooney, Frank Tracy, Maureen Windle. Board na Radharcmhaistoiri Martin Coyne Richard Shanahan Consultative Council on Hepatitis C Ann Broekhaven, Ian Carter, Susan Corbett, Ruth Barrington, Susan Clarke, John Cullinane, Margaret Dunne, Paula Kealy, John Hegarty, Josephine Mahoney, Elizabeth Kenny, Michael Madigan, Aiden Sheila Marshall, Kltty O’Neill McCormack, Ann McGrane, John Murphy, Mark Murphy, Paul O’Donoghue, Cliona O’Farrelly, Siobhan O’Connor, Mary Rowe Drug Treatment Centre Board Fionnuala Anderson, Declan Bedford Christy Joseph Barry, Ann Coyle, Victor Burke, Ide DeLargy, Eamonn Keenan, Denise Keely, Mary Ellen McCann, Owen McCarthy, Daniel McGing, Brian Meelough, Patten John O’Connor, Ciaran Taaffe Dublin Dental Hospital Board John Clarkson, Edward Cotter, Eamonn PG. Heavey, Denise McCarthy, Croke, Jane Davis, Pat Harvey, Michael Mary McGarry, Jane Renehan, Horgan, Angela Kerins, Bernard McCartan, William Toner S.J. Colm A. O´ Mora´in, Deirdre Sadlier, Diarmuid B. Shanley, William Watts Food Safety Authority of Ireland John Daniel Collins, Charles Daly, Albert Peter Dargan, Darina O’Flanagan Flynn, Clı´odhna Foley Nolan, Michael Gibney, Gary Kearney, Daniel O’Hare Health Research Board Owen I. Corrigan, Pat McLoughlin John Travers, Professor Hugh Brady 561 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 562

Name of Board Appointees Lapsed/Resigned

Health Service Employers Agency William Beausang, Bernard Carey, Martin John Collins Cowley, Stiofa´n DeBurca, Pat Donnelly, Pat Harvey, Michael Lyons, Brian O’Donnell, Shiela Treacy Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Bridget Barry B.L., Mary Cantrell, Sheila James Devlin B.L., Margaret Nerney Tribunal Cooney, Padraig Cullinane B.L., James Devlin S.C., Joseph Hogan B.L., Alison B.L., Karen Fergus B.L., Dara Hayes B.L., Lindsay, Michael Mulcahy B.L. Deirdre Hegarty, David Martin, Una McGurk B.L., Patricia McNamara, Anthony G. Murphy, Colm O´ hOisı´n, Anne O’Neill, Leonie Reyno Irish Blood Transfusion Service Board Mary Horgan, Elizabeth Keane, Eamon Pat Farrell, Michael McLoone, Keenan, David Lowe, Maura McGrath, Tony Bridget Ann O’Connor McNamara, Sean Wyse Leopardstown Park Hospital Board Kevin Dalton, Sandra Roynane, Frank Turvey John Gilligan, Marley Kavanagh, David Hurley Mental Health Commission Anne Byrne Lynch, Joe Casey, Gerry Coone, First Appointments Padraig Heverin, Diarmuı´d McGuinness, Deirdre Murhph, Finbarr O’Leary, John Owens, Diarmuı´d Ring, Annie Ryan, Vicki Somers, Mike Watts, Maureen Windle National Council on Ageing and Older Eibhlin Byrne, Pauline Clancy-Seymour, Jim Janet Convery, John Cooney, Joe People Cousins, Michael Dineen, Ciaran Donegan, Dooley, John Gibbon, Faith Givson, Peter Finnerty, James Flanagan, Eamon Kane, Leonnie Lunny, Mary McDermott, Michael Loftus, Michael Murphy, Mary Nally, Diarmuid McLoughlin, Mary Nally Pat O’Toole, Rosemary Smith, Martha Sullivan, Eddie Wade National Social Work Qualifications Alaister Christie, Anne Coffey, Anthony Terence Boyle, Mary Crowe, Geoff Board Cotter, Chris Curtin, Monica Egan, Margaret Day, No´ irı´n Hayes, Brian Howard, Grouke, Helan Hanlon, Mary Hargaden, John Imelda Keogh, Sylda Langford, Lamont, Nicola Martin, Marie Therese Frederick Powell, Suzanne Quin, Mulholland, Bairbe Redmond, Vicki Somers, Mary L. Tallon Patricia Ann Walsh National Council for the Professional Ann Carrigy, Simonetta Ryan, Kieran Feely Jim Hough Kieran Feely, Teresa Development of Nursing and Cody Midwifery National Treatment Purchase Fund Maureen Lynnott New Board, first appointments North Eastern Health Board Brian O’Neill Alf Dwyer Scientific Committee of the Food Michael Gunn Patrick J. Rogan Safety Authority of Ireland Special Residential Services Board Aidan Browne, Helen Buckley, Ger Crowley, New Board, first appointments Michael Donnellan, Patricia Flynn, Cathal Flynn, Liam Hickey, Liam Hickey, Bill Lockhart, Maureen Lynott, Lee Mac Curtain, Michael Travers, Suzanne Vella, Anne Wall St. Luke’s Hospital Board Muiris Fitzgerald, Jean Manahan, John Mary Courtney, Liam Dunbar McCormack, Claire McNicholas, Sheelagh Ryan, Padraig A. White Voluntary Health Insurance Board Christopher Cooney, Pat Farrell Women’s Health Council Kathleen Lynch, Patricia Fitzpatrick, Ann Rita Bartenshaw Byrne, Helen Whelton, Catherine Murphy, Inez Bailey, Pat Fitzpatrick, Rita Bergin, Cecily Kelleher, Pat Doorley, Chris Fitzgerald, Catherine Harney, Claire McNicholas, Margaret Ryan, Christine Whyte, Mary Kelly Please note that most of the above board members were re-appointed. Some board members were appointed into vacant positions and did not replace anyone directly.

General Medical Services Scheme. Hospital Services. 430. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health 431. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give a detailed breakdown and Children when a person (details supplied) in of all payments made to doctors for the year 2003 County Mayo will be called for an appointment under the general medical services scheme. with a skin specialist. [17836/04] [17808/04] Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): The provision of hospital services for people liv- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): ing in County Mayo is a matter for the Western The information requested by the Deputy is not Health Board. My Department has asked the compiled by my Department but by the GMS chief executive officer of the board to investigate (Payments) Board and will be available in July at the position in relation to this case and to reply the time of the publication of the annual report directly to the Deputy. for 2003. The requested details will be forwarded to the Deputy at that time. Health Board Services. 432. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health 563 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 564

[Mr. Durkan.] Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): and Children when a person (details supplied) in General practitioners make clinical decisions on County Kildare can obtain surgery for cataract whether domiciliary visits are appropriate and removal; and if he will make a statement on the warranted based on the symptoms of the patient matter. [17888/04] as presented at the time of the request. The GMS contract provides for surgery and domiciliary vis- Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): its, where necessary, for medical card patients. Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons residing in counties Dublin, Kildare Medical Misadventure. and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, 436. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health asked the regional chief executive of the auth- and Children the progress to date in his investi- ority to investigate the matter raised by the gations into the case of a person (details supplied) Deputy and to reply to him directly. in Dublin 5; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the coroner recorded a verdict of medi- 433. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for cal misadventure on 26 April 2004; his actions Health and Children if an allocation has been since then in having the matter properly investi- made by his Department for a new health centre gated; the person who is conducting this investi- at Ballymore, County Westmeath; the facilities to gation; if he is assured of that person’s indepen- be provided in this proposed centre; if the design dence; if his attention has been drawn to the of this centre has been approved; if planning per- family’s frustrations with the degree of progress mission has been granted; the funds allocated; in this case; and if he will make a statement on and when work is likely to start on this pro- the matter. [17929/04] ject. [17893/04] Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): Following the completion of the inquest into the Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): death of the person concerned, my Department With regard to the provision of health centres requested a report from the master of the hospital generally, the position is that the identification, into the circumstances surrounding the person’s prioritisation and provision of such facilities to death. The report was received on 14 June and I meet the needs of local communities within its am arranging an early meeting with the family of functional area, is a matter for the relevant health the deceased to discuss it. board or the Eastern Regional Health Authority. In the case of Ballymore, County Westmeath, this Road Traffic Offences. responsibility rests with the Midland Health Board. 437. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Trans- The MHB have indicated that the upgrading of port if the holder of an Irish driving licence received UK penalty points following an incident the health centre at Ballymore is a capital in the UK; if these points are transferred onto priority. My Department has agreed to allocate their Irish licence; and if he will make a statement funding which would be in the region of \200,000 on the matter. [17695/04] for this project. Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Where 434. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health the holder of an Irish driving licence, resident in and Children the reason a person (details the UK, commits a penalty point offence in the supplied) in County Westmeath who was to be UK, the points are recorded in the UK but are treated under the special purchase treatment not endorsed on the Irish driving licence or fund has not been contacted to date in this regard licence record. to have a cataract removed from their left eye; Penalty point systems are now operating in this and if he will make a statement on the matter. country, Northern Ireland and Great Britain. The [17901/04] authorities in all three jurisdictions are actively considering the issue of the introduction of a Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin): scheme to provide for the mutual recognition of Responsibility for the provision of hospital ser- penalty points between the United Kingdom and vices to residents of County Westmeath rests with Ireland. This consideration is being pursued the Midland Health Board. My Department has, under the auspices of the British-Irish Council. therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the One of the first matters that will need to be board to investigate the position in relation to this addressed before full mutual recognition can be case and to reply to the Deputy directly. realised will be the introduction of bilateral recognition of the separate penalty points systems General Medical Services Scheme. operating in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. 435. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if medical doctors are expected to Driving Tests. make house calls to holders of medical cards; and 438. Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Trans- if he will make a statement on the matter. port if he will investigate the case of a person [17926/04] (details supplied) in County Cork. [17168/04] 565 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 566

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Under Transport the number of new buses, including the Road Traffic Act 1961 and the Road Traffic replacement and additional buses that were (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations 1999 to 2001, added to the Dublin Bus fleet in 2003. [17306/04] it is a matter for the appropriate licensing auth- ority, in this case Cork motor taxation office, to 443. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for determine the eligibility of a person for a driving Transport the number of new buses, including licence and to issue licences. I understand that replacement and additional buses that are being Cork motor taxation office has no record of the added to the Dublin Bus fleet in 2004. [17307/04] person concerned ever having held a full driving Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): I pro- licence. Neither has my Department any record pose to take Questions Nos. 442 and 443 together. of the person concerned having taken the driv- I understand from Dublin Bus that it purchased ing test. 90 new buses in 2003 and 36 in 2004. All of these 439. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Trans- buses are being used to replace existing buses in port when the driving testing and standards auth- the fleet. ority Bill will be prepared and tabled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17252/04] Road Traffic Offences. Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The 444. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- Government has approved the text of the driving port if he will consider introducing on-the-spot testing and standards authority Bill and arrange- fines for breaches of the three tonne limit, in view ments are being made to publish it shortly. of the fact that this is a major problem nationally 440. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Trans- as regards enforcement, particularly in built-up port his proposals to remove the restriction on areas such as Kennelsfort Road in Palmerstown, drivers over 70 years of age to a maximum period Dublin 20. [17338/04] of three years for their drivers’ licence; and if he Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Article will make a statement on the matter. [17280/04] 17 of the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 provides that where the appro- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Persons priate traffic sign is provided at the entrance to a over 70 years of age must submit a medical report road by a local authority, the driver of a vehicle, with an application for a driving licence and are restricted, depending on the certification of the the unladen weight of which exceeds the weight doctor who completes the report, to either a one- specified on the sign, shall not proceed beyond year or three-year driving licence. This require- the sign save where it is necessary for a vehicle ment is in line with general EU requirements to enter a road solely for the purpose of gaining regarding periodic medical assessment of licence access to or egress from premises only from that holders and are in the interests of the individuals road. concerned, other road users, and road safety As with all offences created under the Road generally. Traffic Acts, the maximum fine for the com- mission of a first offence relating to a contra- Motor Vehicle Testing. vention of article 17 of the traffic and parking 441. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Trans- regulations has been increased through the Road port, further to Questions Nos. 320 and 321 of 25 Traffic Act 2002 from \190 to \800. Where a per- May 2004, if a trailer is being used to carry large son is convicted of the offence on a second or goods such as items (details supplied), if it will be subsequent occasion, a maximum fine not liable for vehicle testing; and if he will make a exceeding \1,500 can be applied. In addition statement on the matter. [17281/04] however, where a third or subsequent such offence is committed within 12 months, in Minister of State at the Department of Trans- \ port (Dr. McDaid): As set out in my replies to addition to a maximum fine of 1,500, the court Question Numbers 320 and 321 of 25 May, trai- may at its discretion impose imprisonment for a lers, other than agricultural trailers, are liable for term not exceeding three months. The so-called periodic roadworthiness testing if they are con- on-the-spot fine system does not apply to that structed primarily to carry goods of any descrip- offence. tion and if they have a design gross vehicle weight The Road Traffic Act 2002 provides for the exceeding 3,500 kg. or have an unladen weight replacement of the on-the-spot fine with the new exceeding 1,254 kg. fixed charge system. Measures to apply that sys- Agricultural trailers are trailers owned by per- tem generally to a significant number of traffic sons engaged in agriculture which are designed and parking offences are being progressed by my and used primarily for work on the land and Department in consultation with the Garda auth- which are used on the public road only inciden- orities and the Department of Justice, Equality tally to such work. and Law Reform. The inclusion of the offence of driving a vehicle beyond specified weight signs in Public Transport. the new fixed charge system is being considered 442. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for as part of that process. 567 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 568

Aerodrome Development. monitored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17345/04] 445. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- port if an aerodrome (details supplied) has recently undergone an audit as per its licence Minister of State at the Department of Trans- requirements; if so, when and the results of same; port (Dr. McDaid): The regulation of flying if not, the action he will take to ensure com- activities is a matter for the Irish Aviation Auth- pliance; if members of the public can obtain such ority and complaints about low flying should be information via the Freedom of Information Act referred to it. 1997; and if he will make a statement on the mat- ter. [17340/04] Pension Provisions. 451. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Trans- 446. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- port, further to Question No. 77 of 14 May 2004, port if an aerodrome (details supplied) complies the precise measures he intends taking to safe- with all regulations governing the safe operation guard existing pension entitlements for retired of an aerodrome as required by law and as laid CIE staff in the event of the restructuring of CIE; down in Eurocontrol’s safety regulation and and if he will make a statement on the matter. safety management-principles; if not, the action [17346/04] he is taking to ensure that such regulations are complied with; and if this can in principle include Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Future instructing the aviation authority to revoke this pension arrangements are being considered as aerodrome’s licence. [17341/04] part of the detailed preparatory work on the 448. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- restructuring of CIE. The objective of that work port if he will investigate the reason the Irish Avi- is that the current position in relation to pension ation Authority changed its decision and sup- entitlements and pension security should con- ported a planning application submitted for an tinue to obtain for the future. aerodrome (details supplied) when it clearly has My Department has retained Watson Wyatt concerns regarding the safe operation of the and O’Donnell Sweeney pension consultants to facility and enforcement action is being taken examine in detail the issues surrounding the CIE against the developer for breach of a previous pensions schemes. This study will assist my planning permission. [17343/04] Department in formulating detailed technical proposals to ensure the continuity of the CIE 449. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- pension arrangements and the maintenance of port if, in relation to its recently issued licence, existing benefits and conditions. he will in investigate the basis on which the Irish Aviation Authority agreed to double the capacity Airport Development Projects. of an aerodrome (details supplied). [17344/04] 452. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Minister of State at the Department of Trans- Transport, further to Question No. 326 of 25 May port (Dr. McDaid): I propose to take Questions 2004, if he will provide consultation facilities for Nos. 445, 446, 448 and 449 together. affected parties in keeping with both the spirit The issues raised by the Deputy are entirely a and the principles of Regulating Better, the matter for the Irish Aviation Authority which will recently launched White Paper on better regu- be happy to deal directly with the Deputy. lation. [17370/04] 447. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- 458. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Trans- port if he will investigate the procedures and port, further to Question No. 326 of 25 May 2004, practices of the Irish Aviation Authority in his views on whether the difference in the depic- relation to the performance of its duties vis-a`-vis tion of the western threshold of runway 10/28 as the monitoring of aerodromes (details between the ERM report of June 2003 and the supplied). [17342/04] Aer Rianta consultation brochure rather than being of the order of approximately 100 metres Minister of State at the Department of Trans- is greater than 200 metres; his further views on port (Dr. McDaid): In the case of Baldonnel whether such a major difference in relation to the Aerodrome, the military authorities regulate avi- simple transfer of information from one map to ation activities. In the case of Weston Aerodrome another on the part of ERM is surprising and the this is a matter for the IAA which would be public may have serious reservations in respect of happy to deal directly with the Deputy. the subsequent mathematical modelling and risk analysis conducted by that company behind Questions Nos. 448 and 449 answered with closed doors; and if he will make a statement on Question No. 445. the matter. [17376/04] 450. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Trans- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): I pro- port the authority responsible for monitoring the pose to take Questions Nos. 452 and 458 together. height of flights from aerodromes (details In the consultation undertaken by ERM, the supplied) over residential areas; the course of difference was noted and has been corrected. redress available if such flights are not being Both the Aer Rianta consultation brochure of 569 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 570

October 2002 and the final ERM report which Bill 1949 on 8 March 1950 by Mr. Hawkins in has been submitted to myself and the Minister for Seanad E´ ireann, the then Parliamentary Sec- the Environment, Heritage and Local Govern- retary to the Minister for Industry and Commerce ment are consistent with each other. The pro- (details supplied) gave an assurance in relation to posed new runway 10/28 at Dublin Airport is still future protected areas promulgated in accordance at the design stage, and no planning permission with the said section 14 that persons interested has yet been given for the runway in question. would receive a map, that is, persons interested Before ERM finalised its report, it conducted in the sense of owner or occupier; if so, the reason two separate rounds of public consultation. I am such a firm assurance on the part of the said Par- happy that the public has been kept fully liamentary Secretary was not subsequently hon- informed of the contents of the report and that oured by his Department many years later in any comments or queries about ERM’s report respect of any of the three orders in question at have been seen and considered by ERM. Full Dublin, Shannon and Knock airports; and if he details of the methodology used by ERM were will make a statement on the matter. [17372/04] given in the draft report it published, which is still available on the company’s website. Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The debates which took place more than 50 years ago 453. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for that the Deputy is referring to were in the context Transport if obstacle 11 on the current ICAO of an amendment sought that would give any aerodrome obstacle chart, type A, for runway interested person a right to purchase a map 11/29 at Dublin Airport was constructed during a associated with any section 14 orders made. I period in which his Department had sole understand that the amendment was not carried, responsibility for the preparation and revision of but assurances were given by former Deputy such charts; if so, if he will provide details of the Liam Cosgrave that interested persons would get said obstacle with particular reference to its a map. I understand that records have been found identity, date of construction, distance from the in the Irish Aviation Authority since the Deputy’s nearby runway threshold, length, breadth, height previous question was replied to which indicate and its height relative to the notional 1.2% slope that landowners in relation to two of the three on the chart in question at its innermost edge that orders affecting sites in County Dublin and is nearest to the nearby runway threshold; and if County Mayo received copies of the orders he will make a statement on the matter. including their maps. It appears that landowners, [17371/04] other than the landowner from whom the site was acquired, in relation to the third order affecting a Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): site in County Clare did not receive a copy of that Obstacle 11 on the current ICAO aerodrome order. However, I can inform the Deputy that all obstacle chart, type A, for runway 11/29 at Dublin the three orders, SI 284 of 1988, SI 114 of 1989 Airport was constructed in 1991. At this time, and SI 205 of 1993, including their maps, are preparation and revision of aeronautical charts at available free of charge on the Attorney Gen- the State airports was managed within the Air eral’s website, under the link to the Irish Statute Navigation Services Office of the Department. Book. Obstacle 11, the FLS hangar was constructed in 1991 and is approximately 170 metres long by 455. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for 110 meters wide by 30 metres high. Part of the Transport, further to his confirmation by way of hangar penetrates the take-off flight path area as a reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 447 to depicted on the type A chart. At the point of pen- 455, inclusive of 1 July 2003, that a minor realign- etration, the hangar is 720 metres approximately ment of runway 10/28 took place prior to its con- from the runway threshold and penetrates the struction, the precise details of such realignment 1.2% surface by approximately 19.5 metres. with particular reference to its orientation, any SI 14 of 2002, Irish Aviation Authority change of overall length and any alteration to (Obstacles to Aircraft in Flight) Order 2002, either of its proposed end points; and if he will requires the reporting of obstacles to the auth- make a statement on the matter. [17373/04] ority and provides for the marking and lighting of same as required by the authority. The pen- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): As etration of the obstacle limitation surface by the advised in response to Question No. 312 of 11 FLS building is published on the type A chart, is May 2004, the length of the southern parallel run- included in the aeronautical information publi- way was finalised at 8,650 feet. The alignment of cation and is also included in the aerodrome the runway was determined to comply with all licence issued by the Irish Aviation Authority. appropriate International Civil Aviation Organis- The building itself is lit with red obstacle lights, ation, ICAO, safety margins and to provide for which is the required procedure where any build- maximum operational efficiency. ing penetrates an obstacle limitation surface. 456. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Trans- 454. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Trans- port, further to Question No. 637 of 27 April port, further to Question No. 325 of 25 May 2004, 2004, if cross runway 16/34 at Dublin Airport is if following the tabling of amendment No. 1 to also protected as an instrument runway; if so, the section 14 of the Air Navigation and Transport reason this runway and the cross runways at Cork 571 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 572

[Mr. P. Breen.] changes in the management of the airport. and Shannon airports are each protected as [17457/04] instrument runways when a similar cross runway Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): I pro- 11/29 at Dublin Airport is merely protected as a pose to take Questions Nos. 460 and 461 together. non-instrument runway; and if he will make a PWC has assisted my Department in its analy- statement on the matter. [17374/04] sis of financial projections and data provided both by Aer Rianta at group level and by the chair- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The men-designate in conjunction with local Aer reason a particular runway at Dublin Airport is Rianta management at Shannon and Cork air- designated as an instrument or a non-instrument ports. The working papers compiled by PWC do runway is a technical matter for Aer Rianta and not constitute a consultancy report or study but not a matter in which I have a function. they do contain confidential and commercially sensitive information and I will not, therefore, be Airport Safety. publishing them. These working papers have, 457. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Trans- however, been provided to the financial advisers port if the red zones designated by his Depart- engaged by the ICTU and the Aer Rianta unions ment at Dublin Airport in 1968 were three- subject to a strict confidentiality agreement which dimensional surfaces in the sky or two-dimen- they entered into with my Department. This shar- sional surfaces on the ground; and if he will make ing of key financial information with the unions’ a statement on the matter. [17375/04] advisers was done in the context of the current engagement process between the unions and my Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): In so far Department which is being facilitated by the Lab- as the zones are used for the protection of the our Relations Commission. public on the ground, they are two-dimensional The work which has been done by PWC in co- surfaces on the ground, and they are known gen- operation with Aer Rianta management and its erally as red zones. In so far as the zones are used advisers has underscored the fact that there are for the protection of safe navigation of aircraft, some major challenges facing the State airports they are three-dimensional surfaces in the sky and these challenges need to be addressed. I have and are known as obstacle clearance surfaces. made it clear on numerous occasions that I believe that with a fresh start, both Shannon and Question No. 458 answered with Question Cork airports will be a commercial success and No. 452. each will maximise sustainable employment both within the airport companies themselves and in Rail Network. their catchment areas. 459. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Trans- There has been a broad level of support at both port when the railway line at Cahir, County Tip- national and regional level, including among busi- perary will be fully repaired and re-opened; and ness interests in the Shannon region, for the Government’s decision to establish the three air- if he will make a statement on the matter. ports as fully autonomous authorities under State [17406/04] ownership. Through more focused commercial Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Iam operation, all three airports can perform better informed by Iarnro´ dE´ ireann that work on repair- and each can play a greater role in stimulating ing the railway viaduct at Cahir is well advanced and supporting regional and national economic and it is expected that the line will re-open at the activity to the benefit of their customers, both air- end of August this year. lines and passengers, and of Irish tourism, trade and industry. I have also given repeated assur- State Airports. ances to the ICTU and the Aer Rianta unions that there will not be any diminution in the terms 460. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Trans- and conditions of employment of workers in the port if he will publish the PWC report on the company on transfer to the new independent air- break-up of Aer Rianta; if the report concluded port authorities. that the break-up makes no economic sense; and if he will make a statement on the matter. 462. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for [17456/04] Transport the identity of the 13 consortia from which expressions of interest were received, in 461. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Trans- regard to the proposal for a new independent ter- port if his attention has been drawn to the fact minal at Dublin Airport; the content of the report that the local chambers of commerce in the Shan- of the panel of experts; and when a proposal will non region and the Atlantic Technology Corridor be brought to Government. [17553/04] Group have argued against the proposals to break up Aer Rianta; and if his attention has Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The further been drawn to the fact that the region has report of February 2003 by the expert panel the highest per capita income outside of Dublin which was chaired by Mr. Paddy Mullarkey on and Kildare and that there are widespread fears the expressions of interest which my Department locally that this will be adversely affected by received in relation to the independent terminal 573 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 574 concept at Dublin Airport is available in the Da´il In June 2001, the Government decided, inter Library and on my Department’s website at alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- www.transport.ie/aviation/publications. The list of ual Departments and offices should compile and companies and consortia which submitted agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- expressions of interest is given in Appendix 1 of ific selection criteria, namely, that programmes the report. I am continuing to give urgent atten- selected for review should reflect Government tion to the independent terminal concept and I priorities or strategic result areas, involve signifi- will bring proposals in the matter to the Govern- cant levels of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, in ment very shortly. May 2002, the Government approved a schedule of expenditure review topics proposed for the Electronic Communications. first year of the next three-year planning horizon, 2002 to 2004, and noted the topics proposed for 463. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for 2003 and 2004. In April 2003, the ERCSC asked Transport if all public services provided by his Departments and offices to update their expendi- Department that are capable of electronic deliv- ture review plans, again in consultation with the ery are available electronically through a single Department of Finance. The committee empha- point of contact, as was promised in the joint pro- sised the Government’s selection criteria and gramme; and if not, if he will make a statement advised that Departments and offices should sel- or explanation in respect of each service not yet ect a small number of programme areas involving so provided. [17565/04] major policy issues or significant levels of expen- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): My diture. On foot of this process, revised expendi- Department is delivering the driver testing appli- ture review plans were drawn up by Departments cation process electronically. This can be accessed and offices. Since its inception in June 2002 the Depart- through the Oasis single point of contact plat- ment of Transport as part of the ongoing review form. Other services are not yet capable of elec- process has completed or is in the process of com- tronic delivery at this time but my Department pleting two reviews, namely the public services will continue to develop its capabilities in this obligation, PSO, funding to regional airports, regard. In some cases the need for a variety of which was published in March, 2004 and the supporting documentation and authentication review on road safety, which is ongoing. makes the process more difficult to deliver elec- tronically. Taxi Regulations. Expenditure Reviews. 466. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Trans- port if taxis are obliged to carry children when 464. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for accompanied by adults; if he intends to oblige Transport if his Department has achieved the tar- taxis to carry child seats, in view of the fact that get, set out in the initiation of the expenditure some continue to refuse to carry children and review initiative in 1997, that all Government babies; and if he will make a statement on the expenditure be subject to a formal review under matter. [17617/04] that initiative every three years; and if not, the areas of expenditure in respect of which the three Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Under yearly review has not taken place. [17580/04] the public service vehicles regulations, whenever a person requests the driver of a vehicle used as 465. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for a taxi standing for hire in a taximeter area to Transport the areas of expenditure of his Depart- drive him or her to a specified place in that area, ment in respect of which an expenditure review the driver must comply with the request unless, under the expenditure review initiative has not inter alia, the person making the request fails to yet been completed and published. [17595/04] tender the lawful fare or the driver has another reasonable excuse for refusing or failing to com- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): I pro- ply with the request. pose to take Questions Nos. 464 and 465 together. In general, each occupant of a passenger car is The initial target of the expenditure review required to wear a safety belt or an appropriate initiative, ERI, was to review all expenditure pro- child restraint, as the case may be. The driver of grammes over a three-year period. However, a a vehicle is obliged to ensure that an occupant of review of the process by the Department of Fin- the vehicle who is under 17 years of age is either ance expenditure review central steering commit- restrained by an appropriate child restraint or, tee in 2000-2001 found that this target had been provided she or he is four years old and upwards, overly ambitious and that a more focused is wearing a safety belt. approach to the selection of review topics was The requirement to wear a safety belt does not required. This view was supported by a apply in respect of the use of a vehicle in which Comptroller and Auditor General value for the fitment of safety belts is not mandatory. money study of the ERI in 2001 which proposed However, cars registered on or after 1 January that a more realistic target should be set that took 1992 are required to have safety belts fitted to all into account the level of evaluative capacity in forward facing seats. Fitment of an appropriate departments generally. child restraint is not mandatory in vehicles. 575 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 576

[Mr. Brennan.] my Department and I expect to receive the Accordingly, it is the duty of the driver to ensure remaining plan before the end of this week. I that when a restraint is available, it is worn. understand the delay in completion is due to the need to finalise some details. Road Haulage. 467. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Penalty Points System. Transport the reason his Department continues 471. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Trans- to justify a person (details supplied) in County port the position in relation to the driving issue Kilkenny holding an international road freight concerning a person (details supplied) in County carrier’s licence when they have been served with Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the an enforcement notice from Kilkenny County matter. [17785/04] Council to the effect that they have no permission to run their haulage business from this location; Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): Where if his Department’s attention has been drawn to a person is detected exceeding a speed limit, he the fact that this situation exists due to the fact or she is offered the opportunity to pay a fixed that the existing licence expires on 13 October charge. The making of such a payment is in effect 2004; if a licence will continue to be granted; and a statement by the payee that he or she will not if he will make a statement on the matter. contest the accusation made in the notice, thus [17680/04] ensuring that the matter will not proceed to a hearing before a court. Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): I was Following receipt of the payment of a fixed not aware that the person in question, who holds charge in respect of a speeding offence, the a toad freight carrier’s licence, was served with an licence record of the person is endorsed with two enforcement notice by Kilkenny County Council penalty points. Where a person does not pay a to the effect that they have no permission to run fixed charge, thus allowing the matter to proceed their haulage business from the location shown to court, on conviction he or she will be required on their licence. to pay a fine of up to \800 and four penalty points This matter will be investigated immediately will be endorsed. and if such a notice is in place, the status of the There is no basis for a refund of a fixed pay- licence will be reviewed and appropriate action ment provided for in the Road Traffic Acts. As taken under the relevant legislation. the payment of the fixed charge is a voluntary acceptance by the person that he or she has Driving Tests. offended and is also accepting the consequences 468. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Trans- of the making of the payment, there can be no port if he will report on the circumstances wher- question of such a payment being refunded. The ein a driver test examiner refused to allow a per- principle that a fixed charge payment cannot be son (details supplied) in County Kildare sit their refunded is provided for in section 11 of the Road test at Naas driving school; and if he will make a Traffic Act 2002 which provides the legislative statement on the matter. [17681/04] basis for the operation of the fixed charge system. The only basis for the removal of penalty points Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): There is provided for in the Act is where a court accepts no record of an application for a driving test hav- a late appeal from a person convicted of a penalty ing been received in my Department from the point offence and, following the hearing of the person concerned. appeal sets aside the original conviction. To date, no driver has had penalty points removed from Decentralisation Programme. their driving licence record. 469. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the reason the decentralisation imple- Departmental Appointments. mentation plan of his Department was not com- 472. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport pleted within the time limit set. [17767/04] the appointments that have been made to State 470. Mr. J. Bruton a asked the Minister for boards and bodies within his Department from 1 Transport if the decentralisation implementation January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons plan for his Department and bodies under its appointed; and the persons they are replacing. aegis was completed and submitted to the imple- [17802/04] mentation group within the time limit set; and if Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The not, the reason therefor. [17771/04] information requested by the Deputy is in the fol- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): I pro- lowing table. pose to take Questions Nos. 469 and 470 together. The appointments made by me include worker The decentralisation implementation plans for directors to the boards of State agencies under my Department and three of the bodies under its the aegis of my Department, where this is aegis were completed within or close to the time required in section 15 of the Worker Participation limit set and these have been submitted to the (State Enterprises) Act 1977, and chief executives decentralisation implementation group. One of of such agencies where legislation specifies that the remaining two plans has just been received in they become ex officio, a director of the company. 577 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 578

Appointments to the board of the Irish Aviation SI 402 of 2002, Transport (Delegation of Minis- Authority are made by my colleague, Deputy terial Functions) Order 2002. McDaid, under the powers conferred on him by

Table of Board Appointments 1/1/2003 to 15/6/2004

Name Date Appointed Succeeded

Aer Lingus Group John Sharman 21 March 2003 Des Richardson Chris Wall 23 December 2003 Reappointment Brian Dunne 25 February 2004 Dan Loughrey Sean Fitzpatrick 11 March 2004 Paddy Wright Anne Mills 22 March 2004 John Keane

Aer Rianta Joe Gantly 28 July 2003 Dermot O’Leary Patrick Shanahan 28 July 2003 Tadgh O’Donoghue Margaret Sweeney 10 December 2003 John Burke

Co´ ras Iompair E´ ireann John Sorohan 2 March 2004 Not applicable Justin Baily 2 March 2004 Not applicable Norman Wilkinson 2 March 2004 Not applicable Paul Kiely 2 March 2004 Reappointed

Board-Designate of Cork Airport Joe Gantley 28 July 2003 Not applicable Authority

Board-Designate of Dublin Airport Gary McGann 28 July 2003 Not applicable Authority Sir Michael Hodgkinson 8 March 2004 Not applicable Colm Barrington 8 March 2004 Not applicable Marie O’Connor 8 March 2004 Not applicable Bill Cullen 8 March 2004 Not applicable Anthony Spollen 8 March 2004 Not applicable Desmond Cummins 8 March 2004 Not applicable Mary Davis 8 March 2004 Not applicable

Board-Designate of Shannon Airport Patrick Shanahan 28 July 2003 Not applicable Authority Patrick Blaney 16 October 2003 Not applicable Rose Hynes 16 October 2003 Not applicable Tadhg Kearney 16 October 2003 Not applicable Michael B Lynch 16 October 2003 Not applicable Padraic Burke 16 October 2003 Not applicable Reg Freake 16 October 2003 Not applicable Olivia Loughnane 16 October 2003 Not applicable

Dublin Transportation Office Conor McCarthy January 2004 Reappointed John Henry January 2004 Reappointed Andrew Cullen January 2004 Reappointed Kevin Ring January 2004 Reappointed Owen Keegan January 2004 Reappointed Derek Brady January 2004 Reappointed William Soffe January 2004 Reappointed Joe Horan January 2004 Reappointed Tom Dowling January 2004 Niall Bradley Tony Hickey January 2004 Reappointed Dr. Alan Westwell January 2004 Reappointed Bill Lilley January 2004 Reappointed Michael Reidy January 2004 Reappointed Michael Tobin January 2004 Reappointed Frank Allen January 2004 Reappointed 579 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 580

Name Date Appointed Succeeded

Irish Aviation Authority Eamon Brennan 12 May 2003 CEO — automatic appointment Neil Branagan 17 June 2003 Tom Quinn Frank Conway 6 April 2004 Reappointed

Medical Bureau of Road Safety Prof. Bernadette Herity 1 April 2003 Reappointment Brendan Gogarty 1 April 2003 Reappointment Dr Fenton Howell 1 April 2003 Reappointment Hilary Dalton 1 April 2003 Reappointment

National Safety Council John Weafer 18 September 2003 Jim Humphreys Brian Huston 31 January 2004 Dick O’Driscoll

National Roads Authority Brendan O’Mara 3 April 2003 Patricia King Bernard McNamara 20 March 2003 Reappointed Connie Nı´ Fhatharta 20 March 2003 Reappointed

Railway Procurement Agency John Maguire 20 March 2003 David Manley (deceased)

Advisory Council to the Commission Pat Byrne 4 November 2003 Not applicable for Taxi Regulation Chief Supt. Denis 4 November 2003 Not applicable Fitzpatrick Noreen Mackey 4 November 2003 Not applicable Sadie Doherty 4 November 2003 Not applicable Jerry Brennan 4 November 2003 Not applicable John Ussher 4 November 2003 Not applicable Deirdre Power 4 November 2003 Not applicable Dr Deirdre O’Keeffe 4 November 2003 Not applicable Michael Kilcoyne 4 November 2003 Not applicable Vincent Kearns 4 November 2003 Not applicable Denise Kinahan 4 November 2003 Not applicable Tom Fannin 4 November 2003 Not applicable Brian Killeen 4 November 2003 Not applicable Mary Keogh 4 November 2003 Not applicable Vincent Thornton 4 November 2003 Not applicable Christopher Humphrey 4 November 2003 Not applicable Joe Gavin 4 November 2003 Not applicable

Driving Tests. Public Order Offences. 473. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Trans- 474. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, port if steps will be taken to expedite an appli- Equality and Law Reform his plans to overcome cation for a driver’s test by a person (details the problems being encountered by residents in supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will an area (details supplied) in County Kildare; if he make a statement on the matter. [17906/04] will appoint extra gardaı´ to assist with the prob- Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan): The cur- lems; and if he will make a statement on the mat- rent application was received on 14 January 2004. ter. [17149/04] A letter was received from her on 29 April 2004 475. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, seeking a test as soon as possible. In support of Equality and Law Reform his views on public this, she enclosed a letter from Dundalk Institute order offences in an area (details supplied) in of Technology which states that she is registered County Kildare; the plans his Department has to as a student and that she requires the use of a overcome such problems; and if he will make a car on a daily basis for transport to and from the statement on the matter. [17150/04] institute. Due to the summer break, this urgency now no longer applies. The current waiting time Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in Mullingar is approximately 36 weeks. Urgent (Mr. McDowell): I propose to take Questions tests in Mullingar are being arranged within Nos. 474 and 475 together. approximately ten weeks. An attempt was made I have made enquiries with the Garda auth- to offer her an early test but the dates offered to orities in relation to public order offences in the her were unsuitable. A further date has not yet areas in question. I am informed by the Garda become available. It should also be noted that the authorities that in the years 2002 and 2003, there person in question has already undergone two were a total of 14 public order offences commit- driving tests since September 2003. ted in the areas concerned and eight convictions 581 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 582 for public order offences. I am further informed Castledermot Garda station is open to the public that in the areas concerned, there has been no between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. and again from 7 p.m. notable increase in public order incidents. I am to 10 p.m. each weekday. Public access call box informed that one of the persons referred to by and call diversion systems are in operation when the Deputy has been visited by the local Garda Ballytore and Castledermot Garda stations are superintendent and the incident referred to dis- closed. Callers to Ballytore Garda station are cussed with him. I understand the second person diverted to Baltinglass Garda station and callers referred to is visited regularly by local gardaı´ and to Castledermot Garda station are diverted to that the area around his residence is frequently Carlow Garda station. It is not possible to say patrolled. how many times the public access call box system I am assured by local Garda management that has been used in the past two years in respect of they are satisfied that the current Garda strength each station. The number of public order offences in the areas concerned is adequate to meet and convictions in respect of each station in the present policing needs. However, the situation past two years is detailed in the following table: will be kept under review in the overall context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the Year 2002 2002 2003 2003 country. offences convictions offences convictions

Garda Deployment. Ballytore 2122 Castledermot 5055 476. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of new Gardaı´ assigned to the Kildare/Carlow division in each of the past two years; the number of retire- Compensation Award. ments in each of the past two years in the div- 478. Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, ision; and if he will make a statement on the mat- Equality and Law Reform when compensation ter. [17151/04] will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform County Cork. [17179/04] (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Garda authorities which are responsible for the (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed that the detailed allocation of resources, including person- payment in question was made on 4 June. nel, that the number of new gardaı´ assigned to the Kildare/Carlow division and the number of Citizenship Applications. retirements in the division in each of the past two years is as follows: 479. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform if the citizenship Period Assignments Retirements application by persons (details supplied) in County Clare will be dealt with in the near future; 1 June 2002 — 31 May 2003 40 8 and if he will make a statement on the matter. 1 June 200 — 31 May 2004 34 7 [17180/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): Applications from three Garda Stations. members of the family referred to by the Deputy were received in the citizenship section of my 477. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Department on 19 April 2004. As the Deputy is Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaı´ aware, such applications are taking approxi- attached to stations (details supplied) in County mately 18 months to process. Consequently, the Kildare; the number of hours the stations are applications referred to have not yet been exam- open; the provision available to residents of the ined in any detail. I will give consideration to the area to contact the Garda when the stations are matters raised by the Deputy and will communi- closed; the number of times this mechanism has cate with him directly in the near future. been used in the past two years; the number of public order offences that have occurred in the Overseas Trials. area in the past two years; the number of convic- tions that have resulted; and if he will make a 480. Ms McManus asked the Minister for Jus- statement on the matter. [17152/04] tice, Equality and Law Reform if he will take steps to ensure that he is represented at the trial Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 for (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the murder which is due to be held at the Old Bailey, Garda authorities which are responsible for the London, on 2 June 2004; and if he will make a detailed allocation of resources, including person- statement on the matter. [17181/04] nel, that the personnel strength of Ballytore and Castledermot Garda stations, as at 9 June 2004, Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is as follows: Ballytore, one garda; Castledermot, (Mr. McDowell): As Minister for Justice, two gardaı´. Ballytore Garda station is open to the Equality and Law Reform, I have no function or public between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. each weekday. role in relation to prosecutions taken in the 583 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 584

[Mr. McDowell.] that they may cause physical harm or even death. United Kingdom. The UK authorities issued a The numbers of incidences of serious self-harm request for certain evidence gathered in the juris- recorded by the Prison Service in prisons and diction to be provided to them because the places of detention for the specified periods are offence in question occurred in this jurisdiction. as follows: 2000, 73; 2001, 73; 2002, 93; and 2003, This request has been complied with. 112. The divergence between the figures given by the Prison Service and the national parasuicide Prison Suicides. registry for 2002 may be explained by the 481. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, judgment on intent of the individual compiler of Equality and Law Reform the number of suicides the figures in each prison and place of detention. and attempted suicides in prisons here in 2000, Child Care Services. 2001, 2002 and 2003. [17182/04] 482. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Jus- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform tice, Equality and Law Reform if the EOCP fund- (Mr. McDowell): All deaths in prison custody are ing for a capital project in Ballyfermot (details the subject of a Garda investigation and an supplied) will now be approved; and if he will inquest held in a coroner’s court. The cause of make a statement on the matter. [17187/04] death is determined by a jury on the basis of the information presented to the court. The number Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of deaths in prison custody which are attributed (Mr. McDowell): I understand from inquiries I to suicide are as follows: 2000, three; 2001, one; have made that an application from the group for 2002, four; and 2003, two. Inquest verdicts are a substantial capital grant of \1.5 million was sub- pending in respect of one such death in 2002 and mitted in May 2003. two deaths in 2003, but the apparent cause of The equal opportunities child care programme death indicates that suicide was the possible is a seven-year development programme, the pro- intention in the cases. gress of which was commented on favourably by Attempted suicide is also described as parasu- the mid-term evaluators of the regional oper- icide. Parasuicide is any non-fatal act which an ational programmes and the national develop- individual deliberately undertakes knowing that ment plan. Expenditure under the programme it may cause them physical harm or even death. covers the period until the end of 2007 and must Accurate historical statistical data on such incid- take place in a planned manner. Grant approvals ences is not readily available and would require must be planned to ensure that the programme extensive searches of individual files and records. can meet its financial commitments at all times. Such incidents have proven difficult to categorise There has been great demand from community- as self-harm or attempted suicide because a based groups for capital grant assistance under judgement on intent is required from the com- the programme. Every county has benefited from piler of the statistics. significant grant commitments to provide new The National Suicide Research Foundation and enhanced community-based child care facili- established the national parasuicide registry in ties and to support capital developments in the 2000 as a national monitoring system for the private child care sector. occurrence of parasuicide. The foundation On behalf of my Department, ADM Limited is defines parasuicide as any non-fatal act which an conducting an extensive review of the pro- individual deliberately undertakes knowing or gramme’s capital commitments to date, num- believing that it may cause them physical harm or bering over 1,100 and at a value of \114 million, even death. It includes acts involving varying lev- to ensure that grant commitments previously els of suicidal intent including definite attempts entered into will be realised. Projects may await at suicide and acts where the individual had no planning permission or the completion of tender intention of dying. The Prison Service agreed processes before it can be reasonably assured that with the foundation in 2001 that the registry they will proceed. If they do not proceed, the should include prisons and places of detention in funding set aside can be recommitted and made its statistics and the foundation undertook to available to another project. compile the statistics from records kept within My Department recently reviewed the different each prison or place of detention. The foundation budget lines under the equal opportunities child included a chapter on prisons and places of deten- care programme, including the capital pro- tion in its 2002 annual report, which was pub- gramme, to ensure that the most effective use is lished in late 2003. It recorded 144 episodes of made of all remaining funding in accordance with parasuicide in prisons and places of detention in the programme’s objectives. Some transfers 2002. between measures were recommended and The Prison Service has been moving in recent require the approval of the regional assemblies. I years towards centralised record systems based expect that this technical process will be com- on the use of information technology. Consider- pleted shortly and that it will bring to at least able progress has already been made in this area \157 million the total allocation for the capital and further work is under way at present. The development of child care under the present figures provided by the Prison Service relate to equal opportunities child care programme. This non-fatal acts undertaken by a prisoner knowing amount includes an element for the admin- 585 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 586 istration by ADM Limited of the capital newspapers seeking sites on the periphery of programme. Dublin for a new prison complex to replace At the same time, an extensive review of child Mountjoy Prison and the other custodial facilities care provision on the ground has taken place to adjacent to it. At my request, the Office of Public identify obvious service gaps, the filling of which Works approached those who responded to the will be a priority using the remaining capital fund- advertisement. I have been furnished with the ing which currently amounts to about \35 million. responses obtained to this request from the land- I intend to allocate the remaining capital funding owners involved. I have instructed my Depart- under this strand of the Government’s commit- ment to establish and chair an expert group to ments to child care to address the most immedi- assess the suitability of the sites which have been ate service gaps. As a result, all the projects in offered and to draw up a short list for further the pipeline are being reviewed again by ADM consideration. I am not in a position to say Limited on the basis of geographical need, the whether the chosen site will be on a railway line. range of services being offered and the capacity of the groups to complete a project before the Child Care Services. end of the programme. Those projects which best meet the criteria will receive priority. The review 484. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, process will be repeated as necessary to maximise Equality and Law Reform when capital grant the benefits deriving from this phase of the equal assistance will be made available for the provision opportunities child care programme. of a child care facility at Clogh family resource The day-to-day administration of the equal centre at County Kilkenny; and if he will make a opportunities child care programme is under- statement on the matter. [17257/04] taken by ADM Limited, which has been engaged Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform by my Department to carry out thorough assess- (Mr. McDowell): I understand from inquiries I ments against the programme criteria of all appli- have made that, to date, no application for capital cations for grant assistance under the programme. grant assistance under the equal opportunities All large-scale capital projects are referred by child care programme can be traced from the ADM Limited to an independent external build- group in question. If an application is received, it ing specialist to assess the suitability of the pro- will undergo a thorough assessment and appraisal posal and its value for money. On completion of to ensure it meets the criteria of the programme, the assessment process, applications are con- which include increasing the number of child care sidered by the programme appraisal committee, facilities and places, enhancing the quality of chaired by my Department, which makes a fund- child care provision in the locality, allowing par- ing recommendation to me before I make a final ents to avail of educational, training or employ- decision on the matter. The current review of the ment opportunities and ensuring that the applications in the pipeline will be concluded as development of child care facilities is co-ordi- speedily as possible to facilitate the development nated at local level where appropriate. The appli- of additional child care places at the earliest cation will be considered by the programme opportunity and to ensure that the funding is appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, drawn down in the planned manner I referred to for a funding recommendation before I make a earlier before the end of 2007. final decision on it. I do not doubt that the success of the present It is fair to point out that there has been a high strand of the equal opportunities child care pro- level of demand for capital grant assistance under gramme, as well as the need to continue to make the present strand of the equal opportunities child care services available to support the child child care programme. As a result, any capital care needs of our growing work force, will sup- application received at this stage might have to port my case for ongoing capital and current await a further stream of funding unless it can funding from the Government for this key sector. If additional funding becomes available before clearly show that it is addressing a significant gap the end of the present national development plan, in service availability. I advise the Deputy that the group in question received a grant towards its I expect that the programme will benefit from \ transfers again. staffing costs, amounting to 135,999 over three years. Prisons Building Programme. Court Procedures. 483. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the 485. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- replacement of Mountjoy Prison; the person by tice, Equality and Law Reform the number of whom the search for alternative sites is being con- cases, exclusive of those referred to in the Court ducted and the financial basis on which; if the of Criminal Appeal, in respect of which he has proposed site will be on a rail line; and if he will granted redress under the Criminal Procedure make a statement on the matter. [17189/04] Act 1993. [17266/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): Earlier this year, on my instruc- (Mr. McDowell): Other than those cases referred tion, the Prison Service advertised in the national to the Court of Criminal Appeal, there are no 587 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 588

[Mr. McDowell.] request for a transfer to this country in a short a cases in which I have granted redress under the time as possible, it should be noted that the pro- Criminal Procedure Act 1993. cess can take some time.

Visa Applications. Child Care Services. 486. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Jus- 488. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, tice, Equality and Law Reform if a holiday visa Equality and Law Reform if he will outline, in will be granted to persons (details supplied) to tabular form, the details of the successful recipi- visit relatives here without having to make a ents of grant aid under the equal opportunities second application which is very costly; and if he child care programme for capital and quality will make a statement on the matter. [17282/04] improvements to child care; the name and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform address of the organisation; the number of child- (Mr. McDowell): The visa applications in ques- care places provided: the number of child care tion, which relate to a mother and her 19 year old workers employed as a ratio of child care places; son, were received in my Department on 8 June the total amount of money granted from start to 2004. The applications did not include any rel- completion of the project; the date when the pro- evant supporting documentation. There was no ject came into operation; and if he will make a evidence of any obligation to return home follow- statement on the matter. [17313/04] ing the proposed visit, or of finances to show how Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the applicants intend to maintain themselves (Mr. McDowell): The Deputy will appreciate that while in the State. It was noted that the second in a programme such as the equal opportunities applicant stated that he wished to visit the State child care programme, under which some 2,000 for a four-month period, but a visit visa is valid individual grants are awarded, the volume of for a stay of up to 90 days. I understand that the information being requested is extensive. My sponsor in Ireland has been informed of the Department is completing a comprehensive docu- additional documents required to assist the con- ment which will give the key information sought sideration of the applications, which will be pro- by the Deputy — the names and addresses of pro- cessed when the additional documentation is jects, the type and amount of grant received and received. the numbers of full and part time child care places in each facility. When the document has Prisoner Transfers. been finalised, it will be lodged in the Oireachtas 487. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Library. The level of additional information being Equality and Law Reform further to a previous sought by the Deputy would necessitate many parliamentary question when a decision will be weeks of work. If the Deputy has an interest in a made on a request by a person (details supplied) specific facility, I can arrange for the collation of who is serving a sentence in a UK prison to be an extensive range of data in that regard. I am returned to serve the remaining part of their sen- happy to inform the Deputy that almost 18,000 tence in a prison here; and if he will make a state- additional child care places had come on stream ment on the matter. [17283/04] by the end of 2003, thanks to the support of the equal opportunities child care programme. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Deputy will recall that the programme’s target is (Mr. McDowell): I advise the Deputy that my 28,000 new places by the end of 2006, so the pro- Department has received a formal application gress to date is satisfying. from the United Kingdom prison authorities for the transfer of the individual in question to this 489. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, country under the Council of Europe Convention Equality and Law Reform if his attention has on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. My been drawn to the fact that many city and county Department is awaiting further information from councils are charging commercial rates to private the UK authorities in that regard. When the or for profit child care facilities; if he is in nego- information becomes available, the application tiations or discussions with the Minister for will be forwarded to the State’s legal officers, who Environment, Heritage and Local Government will advise me about whether the acts or omis- with a view to having such childcare premises sions constituting the offence, for which the indi- exempted from payment of commercial rates; and vidual concerned received a prison sentence in if he will make a statement on the matter. the UK, would also constitute an offence in this [17314/04] country. 490. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, The informed consent of the sentencing State, Equality and Law Reform if child care centres, the receiving State and the sentenced person provided by community groups, in community must be provided to facilitate a transfer. If all par- halls or related similar structures are exempt ties consent to the transfer, a warrant must be from paying commercial rates; and if he will make sought from the High Court authorising the trans- a statement on the matter. [17315/04] fer of the individual into the State and the con- tinued detention of the person here. While every 492. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, effort will be made to process the person’s Equality and Law Reform if he will consider 589 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 590 abolishing rates on child care centres, in view of I am aware that there has recently been corre- the exorbitant cost of child care. [17361/04] spondence both with me and with my Depart- ment on this issue and I have been informed that 501. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- this correspondence is being dealt with. tice, Equality and Law Reform if he has conduc- ted a survey of the typical rates bill being faced Asylum Applications. by newly establishing child care facilities in Dub- lin; if his attention has been drawn to the esti- 491. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, mates of rate bills amounting to as much as \200 Equality and Law Reform the position regarding to \300 per annum for each child attending child an application for humanitarian status for a per- care; his views on whether this heavy rates bill son (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [17360/04] will prevent the development of child care facili- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform ties which his Department is seeking to promote; (Mr. McDowell): The person concerned, a and if he will make a statement on the matter. Romanian, entered the State on 4 May 1998 and [17465/04] claimed asylum. He was refused refugee status 502. Ms McManus asked the Minister for Jus- and notified of this on 25 August 1998. He tice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received appealed this decision. On 11 August 1999, he a letter from companies (details supplied); if he was informed that the appeals authority decided will meet them; and if he will make a statement to uphold the original decision and to refuse his on the matter. [17471/04] appeal. On 18 January 2000 he was notified that the Minister was proposing to consider his 527. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Jus- deportation in accordance with section 3 of the tice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond Immigration Act 1999. Following consideration to correspondence (details supplied); and if he of the person’s case file and representations sub- will make a statement on the matter. [17764/04] mitted on his behalf, a deportation order was signed in respect of him on 6 March 2000. Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Judicial review proceedings were initiated (Mr. McDowell): I propose to take Questions against this decision. On 18 September 2001, the Nos. 489, 490, 492, 501, 502 and 527 together. person was informed that as a result of the The question of rates charged to commercial Supreme Court judgment in the P, L & B case child care providers by local authorities is more delivered on 30 July 2001, letters similar to that appropriate to my colleagues, the Minister for sent to his legal representative on 18 January Finance, who has responsibility for fiscal policy, 2000 may not have complied with the require- and the Minister for Environment, Heritage and ments of Section 3( )(a) of the Immigration Act Local Government, who has responsibility for the 1999. Accordingly, the Minister revoked the local authorities. deportation order signed in respect of him. The I have been advised that a parliamentary ques- person was also notified that the Minister was tion on this issue was put to my colleague, the proposing to make another deportation order in Minister for Finance, on 26 May 2004. In his respect of him and that he was entitled to make response he stated that he has: no plans at present additional written representations within 15 to provide for special treatment of cre`ches under working days setting out the reasons he should be the Valuation Act. The Valuation Act 2001 main- allowed leave to remain in the State. Represen- tained the long-standing position that commercial tations have been made on the p’rson’s behalf, facilities — including child care facilities such as arguing why he should not be deported. I expect play schools, pre-schools, cre`ches and Montessori the case file to be submitted to me for consider- schools — are liable for rates. Exceptions to this ation shortly and the man in question will be key principle would quickly be followed by informed of my decision in due course. demands for similar treatment from the providers of other useful services and products, which Question No. 492 answered with Question would be difficult in equity to resist. The process No. 489. could thus substantially reduce Local Authority revenues, which would have to be made good by Crime Levels. imposing corresponding increases on the remain- ing ratepayers. 493. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has The Minister also pointed out: the rateable val- been drawn to an upsurge in crime in the Portob- uation of commercial property is based on net ello area; the action the Garda has taken with annual value (NAV) i.e. the rental value of the regard to same; the further action he intends to property. Any ratepayer dissatisfied with the take; and if he will make a statement on the mat- rateability of a property, the valuation assessed ter. [17407/04] on a particular property or the method of calcu- lation can appeal to the Commissioner of Valua- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform tion in the first instance and subsequently to the (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the independent Valuation Tribunal. There is a Garda authorities that the area referred to is further right of appeal to the High Court and ulti- actively policed by gardaı´ from Kevin Street mately to the Supreme Court on a point of law. Garda station and that foot patrols are carried 591 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 592

[Mr. McDowell.] service gaps following a comparative review of all out by local uniformed gardaı´ on a regular basis. applications on hand by 30 April 2004. Appli- The patrols are assisted by the detective unit, the cations from community groups received after divisional crime task force, the special resource that date, along with capital applications which unit, the Garda mountain bike unit and the com- are not deemed to be top priority for immediate munity policing unit. Recent crimes which have funding following the present review, will be con- been carried out in the area are under investi- sidered again for funding if additional funding gation by gardaı´ at Kevin Street Garda station. I becomes available under the present strand of the have been assured by the Garda authorities that programme or for funding under the next policing in this area is kept under constant review programme. in order to ensure that it is tailored to meeting changing circumstances. Citizenship Applications. 496. Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Jus- Departmental Properties. tice, Equality and Law Reform if the naturalis- 494. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, ation period for application for citizenship has Equality and Law Reform if his Department has been extended from five years to six; and if so, sold a property in County Mayo (details the reason therefor. [17438/04] supplied); if so, the sum of money it was sold for; Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it was sold by public auction; if it has not been (Mr. McDowell): The residency and other statu- sold, when the OPW intends to sell it and the tory requirements for obtaining a certificate of manner in which. [17409/04] naturalisation are set out in the sections 15 and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform 16 of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act (Mr. McDowell): I understand that the premises 1956, as amended in 1986 and 2001. A non- in question have not been used for court sittings national applicant who is the spouse of an Irish for some time. As the premises are not owned by national for at least three years must have had a my Department or the Office of Public Works, period of one year’s residence in the island of their disposal is not a matter for my Department. Ireland immediately before the date of the appli- cation. During the four years preceding that per- Child Care Services. iod, he or she must have had total residence in the island of Ireland amounting to two years. In 495. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, other cases, the applicant must have had a period Equality and Law Reform his proposals to make of one year’s continuous residency in the State available grant aid under the equal opportunities immediately before the date of application. Dur- child care programme for capital and quality ing the eight years immediately preceding that improvement to child care centres; and if he will period, he or she must have had a total residence make a statement on the matter. [17425/04] in the State amounting to four years. Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Certain periods of residence in the State are (Mr. McDowell): We are at the middle stage of excluded in the context of naturalisation. These the implementation of the successful equal include periods of residence in respect of which opportunities child care programme, which pro- an applicant does not have permission to remain vides grant aid, as the Deputy mentioned. The in the State, periods granted for the purposes of programme has three strands: capital grants for study and periods granted for the purposes of community based, not-for-profit organisations seeking recognition as a refugee within the mean- and private sector child care providers to build, ing of the Refugee Act 1996. Further information renovate, upgrade or equip child care facilities; and the necessary application forms may be staffing grants for community groups and not-for- obtained from my Department’s website, www.ju- profit organisations which provide child care for stice.ie, or by telephoning the citizenship section’s disadvantaged families; and support to the help line on Tuesdays or Thursdays between national voluntary child care organisations and 10:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at lo-call 1890 551500 other groups which are working to improve the or (01) 6167700. quality of child care in Ireland. I am happy to inform the Deputy that almost 18,000 additional Registration of Title. child care places had come on stream by the end 497. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, of 2003 as a result of the programme’s support. Equality and Law Reform if he will take steps to The Deputy may be aware that the programme expedite the first application for registration by target is 28,000 new places by the end of 2006, so persons (details supplied) who purchased lands the progress to date is very satisfying. from the Irish Land Commission directly in 1992; There has been a significant number of appli- and if he will make a statement on the matter. cations for grant assistance under the programme. [17442/04] The demand for grant assistance to develop child care continues to remain buoyant. I intend to Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform allocate the remaining capital funding available (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the for community groups under the present strand Registrar of Titles that an application for a Land of the programme to address the most immediate Commission vesting was lodged on 22 May 2001, 593 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 594 to which schedule number 36/93618,36/93619 the pilot equity exchange programme for Garda refers. I can further inform the Deputy that the properties being progressed by the Office of Pub- application is receiving attention in the Land lic Works. If the person mentioned by the Deputy Registry and will be completed as soon as is interested in obtaining information on this possible. scheme, he or she should apply in writing to the property management section of the Office of Garda Stations. Public Works, 51 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2. 498. Mr. Grealish asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the Questions Nos. 501 and 502 answered with provision of a new city-type Garda station in Question No. 489. Oranmore to cater for the east side of Galway city in view of the fact that the current station in Citizenship Applications. Oranmore has to be vacated by July 2005, and it 503. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, is imperative that the new station be fully func- Equality and Law Reform the position of a per- tional by that time; and if he will make a state- son’s (details supplied) in County Kildare appli- ment on the matter. [17454/04] cation for post-nuptial citizenship; and if he will Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform make a statement on the matter. [17480/04] (Mr. McDowell): As it is planned to build a new Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Garda station in Oranmore, the Office of Public (Mr. McDowell): A declaration of acceptance of Works has been asked to provide a revised sketch post-nuptial citizenship from the person referred scheme for a new city-type station for further to by the Deputy was received in my Department consideration by the Garda authorities. While it in February 2004. As the processing time for such is not possible to say when the project will com- declarations is approximately eight months from mence, I assure the Deputy that the matter will the date of lodgement, it is likely that the pro- be progressed as quickly as possible in view of cessing of the declaration of the person in ques- the time constraints involved. If the new station tion will be finalised near the end of the year. is not completed by June 2005, I understand from I will write to the Deputy when the matter has the Office of Public Works that appropriate tem- been concluded. porary accommodation will be provided until the new station is ready for occupation. Crime Levels. Registration of Title. 504. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request a 499. Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Justice, report from the Garda authorities regarding their Equality and Law Reform if his Department will response to the issues raised in correspondence complete a dealing in respect of a person (details (details supplied); and if he will make a statement supplied) in County Leitrim. [17462/04] on the matter. [17502/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the Registrar of Titles that an application for a Land Garda authorities that seven incidents of criminal Commission schedule was lodged on 12 May damage have been recorded so far this year in the 1987, to which schedule number area concerned. Four incidents were reported as V0000WS089655V refers. Land Commission having occurred on 30 May 2004. There was one schedule applications are deemed to be registered reported theft from a vehicle in the area during as of the date of vesting which is prior to the date the same period. The local Garda management of lodgement of the documents in the Land has informed me that it has increased uniformed Registry. Accordingly, registration in the Land foot patrols and plain clothes and mobile patrols Registry of Land Commission cases is afforded a in the area, with a view to identifying the lower priority than the registration of other deal- offenders and ensuring a concentrated and visible ings. I assure the Deputy that the application is Garda presence. I understand that the neighbour- receiving attention in the Land Registry and will hood policing sergeant is arranging to meet local be completed as soon as possible. residents to discuss their concerns regarding crime in the area and to advise them on crime Garda Stations. prevention methods. 500. Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure a person Garda Operations. (details supplied) in County Tipperary should fol- 505. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Jus- low in relation to their interest in buying the tice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request Garda station in New Inn, Cashel, County Tip- a report from the Garda authorities at the Bride- perary, which has been closed. [17463/04] well Garda station, Dublin 7 regarding the action Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform they are taking on the anti-social activities in the (Mr. McDowell): The Garda station at New Inn, laneway (details supplied); and if he will make a Cashel, County Tipperary, is in use and is part of statement on the matter. [17503/04] 595 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 596

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Authority and the Human Rights Commission (Mr. McDowell): The local Garda management and I await their comments. The extensive con- has informed me that it has cautioned the licensee sultative process engaged in the development of of the premises in question about his usage of the the plan was overseen by a steering group, with laneway to the rear of the premises. I am further representation from the Government and non- informed that the licensee has given an undertak- governmental organisations including those rep- ing to the Garda to discontinue the usage in ques- resenting the interests of minority ethnic groups. tion. I am assured by the Garda authorities that regular Garda patrols have been instructed to Electronic Communications. give ongoing attention to the area, with a view 508. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- to monitoring the situation. Any further incidents tice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make may lead to a prosecution. a statement on the implementation by the Land Registry office of the joint programme commit- Victims Commission. ment that all public services capable of electronic 506. Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for delivery will be available through a single point Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will meet of contact. [17529/04] a person (details supplied) in order to resolve Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform their grievance. [17527/04] (Mr. McDowell): The Land Registry has made Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform significant progress in the development and (Mr. McDowell): I refer the Deputy to my implementation of its ICT programme. A signifi- answers to Questions Nos. 869 of 27 January 2004 cant advance was made in providing Internet- and 742 of 27 April 2004, in which I informed the based access and services to customers when the Deputy that the Garda authorities informed me integrated title registration information system that a person was convicted in the case in ques- and the electronic access service were launched tion and that the victim received compensation. in 1999. The information system was gradually While I am sympathetic to the distress caused to rolled out to the entire country, culminating with the victim’s family by the crime, I consider that a the final counties in October 2002. All regis- meeting with him would not serve any beneficial trations have been made on an electronic register purpose. since then. The electronic access service was the first e-government project to go live in the Civil Anti-Racism Measures. Service. Following the early success of the electronic 507. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- access service, a crucial task to be achieved was tice, Equality and Law Reform if it is proposed the conversion of over 110 years of historical to establish an expert group on managing cultural paper records into electronic format. This work, change, as promised in the joint programme; and which commenced in 2002, will be completed the way in which the status of expert on this sub- ahead of schedule in July 2004. Under the project ject is to be evaluated and the experts selec- some 6.4 million pages of official records were ted. [17528/04] systematically scanned, indexed, checked and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform loaded onto the system for use by customers (Mr. McDowell): The Deputy may be aware that through the Internet. The following table, which the national action plan against racism is being presents a snapshot of some of the key perform- finalised. My Department has almost concluded ance indicators, shows that uptake and usage con- the process of taking on board observations tinues to grow steadily and that the volume of which have been received from other agencies. users and the level of transactions continue to be The plan is with the social partners, the Equality well ahead of projections.

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 (projected)

No. of subscribers 1,700 2,900 4,400 6,120 7,200 No. of business transactions conducted through 123,943 159,807 274,561 497,560 700,000 the electronic access service each year

Over 80% of the Land Registry’s customer base intended to take advantage of the common secur- accesses services through the electronic access ity regime and electronic payments mechanisms service. Over 70% of applications for some ser- which will emanate from the work of Reach. The vices are made on-line. Approximately 3,500 on- Land Registry’s electronic service delivery strat- line business transactions are conducted through egy takes into account the rapidly changing nat- the electronic access service each day. In many ure of technology and the evolving demands for cases, it is possible to complete one’s business more efficient service delivery models through entirely on-line. the use of ICTs. The strategy includes further The Land Registry’s electronic access service examination of the possibilities for delivering is modelled to avail of the e-broker intermediary additional services electronically. being developed by Reach. It is particularly 597 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 598

The key areas under consideration include the On behalf of my Department, ADM Limited is introduction of digital mapping, so that all map- conducting an extensive review of the pro- based information can be made available elec- gramme’s capital commitments to date, num- tronically. The digital mapping project, which bering over 1,100 and at a value of \114 million, covers all the land in the State, was recently to ensure that grant commitments previously approved by the Minister for Finance for funding entered into will be realised. Projects may await and preparations are under way. Liaison with the planning permission or the completion of tender legal profession and financial institutions is processes before it can be reasonably assured that ongoing, as part of attempts to extend the range they will proceed. If they do not proceed, the of services available electronically. Options are funding set aside can be recommitted and made being considered to eliminate paper-based certifi- available to another project. cation from the registration process. We are con- My Department recently reviewed the different tributing to the Law Reform Commission’s report budget lines under the equal opportunities child on the future of electronic conveyancing. care programme, including the capital pro- A number of developments are ongoing to gramme, to ensure that the most effective use is facilitate existing service delivery on the elec- made of all remaining funding in accordance with tronic access service. The developments which the programme’s objectives. Some transfers have been successfully implemented or are between measures were recommended and planned for implementation during 2004 include require the approval of the regional assemblies. I the electronic access service website, www.landre- expect that this technical process will be com- gistry.ie, which underwent a complete redesign pleted shortly and that it will bring to at least and upgrade during 2003. More than 70,000 visits \157 million the total allocation for the capital to the Land Registry’s homepage are made each development of child care under the present month. Additional functional, performance and equal opportunities child care programme. This accessibility developments have been amount includes an element for the admin- implemented which have facilitated, and will con- istration by ADM Limited of the capital tinue to facilitate, the further extension of the programme. range of services currently available through the At the same time, an extensive review of child site. A further enhancement, subject to available care provision on the ground has taken place to funding, will see the commencement of the imple- identify obvious service gaps, the filling of which mentation of a project — already two years at will be a priority using the remaining capital fund- planning stage — to incorporate the information ing which currently amounts to about \35 million. and services of the registry of deeds into the elec- I intend to allocate the remaining capital funding tronic access service. under this strand of the Government’s commit- ments to child care to address the most immedi- Child Care Services. ate service gaps. As a result, all the projects in 509. Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, the pipeline are being reviewed again by ADM Equality and Law Reform the status of an appli- Limited on the basis of geographical need, the cation for funding from a company (details range of services being offered and the capacity supplied) in County Cork; if it satisfies required of the groups to complete a project before the criteria; and when a decision will be made on the end of the programme. Those projects which best application for funding. [17530/04] meet the criteria will receive priority. The review Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform process will be repeated as necessary to maximise (Mr. McDowell): I understand from enquiries I the benefits deriving from this phase of the equal have made that an application from the group for opportunities child care programme. a substantial capital grant of almost \1.4 million The day-to-day administration of the equal was submitted in February 2003. opportunities child care programme is under- The equal opportunities child care programme taken by ADM Limited, which has been engaged is a seven-year development programme, the pro- by my Department to carry out thorough assess- gress of which was commented on favourably by ments against the programme criteria of all appli- the mid-term evaluators of the regional oper- cations for grant assistance under the programme. ational programmes and the national develop- All large-scale capital projects are referred by ment plan. Expenditure under the programme ADM Limited to an independent external build- covers the period until the end of 2007 and must ing specialist to assess the suitability of the pro- take place in a planned manner. Grant approvals posal and its value for money. On completion of must be planned to ensure that the programme the assessment process, applications are con- can meet its financial commitments at all times. sidered by the programme appraisal committee, There has been great demand from community- chaired by my Department, which makes a fund- based groups for capital grant assistance under ing recommendation to me before I make a final the programme. Every county has benefited from decision on the matter. The current review of the significant grant commitments to provide new applications in the pipeline will be concluded as and enhanced community-based child care facili- speedily as possible to facilitate the development ties and to support capital developments in the of additional child care places at the earliest private child care sector. opportunity and to ensure that the funding is 599 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 600

[Mr. McDowell.] available in establishing a dedicated traffic corps. drawn down in the planned manner I referred to I understand the Minister for Transport will chair earlier before the end of 2007. a meeting of the group shortly. The issue to be I do not doubt that the success of the present decided on is the solution that will give the best strand of the equal opportunities child care pro- results in terms of a positive impact on road gramme, as well as the need to continue to make safety and traffic management, as well as the best child care services available to support the child value for money. The involvement of non-Garda care needs of our growing work force, will sup- personnel is one of the options under consider- port my case for ongoing capital and current ation, but it would involve substantial legal and funding from the Government for this key sector. financial implications. Issues such as the struc- If additional funding becomes available before ture, functions and method of operation of a the end of the present national development plan, traffic corps, together with the legal basis for any I expect that the programme will benefit from civilian involvement, also require detailed con- transfers again. sideration. There is a dedicated traffic unit in every Garda Visa Applications. division with special responsibility for traffic law enforcement. A new unit, managed by the chief 510. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for superintendent in Dublin Castle, is operating on Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will con- a pilot basis in the Dublin metropolitan region sider the appeal by a person (details supplied) fol- with positive results. Approximately 520 gardaı´ lowing the refusal of a visa to visit Ireland for the are attached to 40 divisional traffic units. It purpose of spending time with their child. should be remembered that uniformed gardaı´ [17532/04] throughout the State are involved in traffic law Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform enforcement as part of their duties. (Mr. McDowell): The person referred to in the question made a visa application in March 2004. Electronic Communications. She stated that she wishes to travel to Ireland in 512. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- July for the benefit of her health. No supporting tice, Equality and Law Reform if all public ser- evidence of a medical condition was submitted vices provided by his Department that are cap- with her application. The applicant named a ref- able of electronic delivery are available erence in Ireland and indicated that she would be electronically through a single point of contact, as financially supported and accommodated by this was promised in the joint programme; and if not, reference during her visit, but there is no evi- if he will make a statement or explanation in dence of any prior existing connection between respect of each service not yet so provided. the applicant and the reference. It has also been [17566/04] noted that the applicant’s 13 year old son is among a group due to visit Ireland around the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform same time as the applicant’s proposed visit. The (Mr. McDowell): A commitment to have public application was refused because the visa officer services capable of electronic delivery available was not reasonably able to conclude, on the basis through a single point of contact by 2005 was of the supporting documentation supplied to my given in March 2002 in the new connections Department, that the applicant would observe the action plan. It has been decided to focus for 2005 conditions of the visa. on the on-line delivery of the services that will The applicant’s reference in Ireland submitted deliver the greatest impact and return on invest- a letter of appeal against the refusal of the visa ment, reflecting the level of demand for a particu- on her behalf. The visa appeals officer upheld the lar service and those which are pivotal in pro- original decision to refuse the application because gressing the wider information society agenda. no additional supporting documentation was sub- My Department is not a front-line provider of mitted with the appeal. It is open to the applicant public services. Services to the public are pro- to make a fresh application with up-to-date sup- vided by the wide range of agencies in the sector, porting documentation. In such circumstances, such as the criminal justice agencies, the immi- the matter will be considered anew. gration and asylum agencies and the equality agencies. Traffic Management. The electronic delivery of services through a single point of contact is being progressed 511. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- through the framework of the public service tice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied broker. The Reach agency, under the aegis of the himself with progress towards the fulfilment of Department of Social and Family Affairs, is the promise in the joint programme of the estab- charged with responsibility for its design and lishment of a traffic corps. [17535/04] development. It is intended to launch the first Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform stage of the public services broker at the end of (Mr. McDowell): A working group has been this month. A public facing website, www.reach- established, comprising of officials from the services.ie, will be designed to act as a single point Department of Transport, my Department and of access to a range of services offered by the the Garda Sı´ocha´na, to examine the options public service. The website will initially provide 601 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 602 access by means of links to forms or on-line ser- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform vices provided on other websites. It will provide (Mr. McDowell): I propose to take Questions access to information and application forms for Nos. 513 and 514 together. up to 900 services when it is launched. Approxi- The initial target of the expenditure review mately 25 services, from the citizenship, asylum initiative was to review all expenditure pro- and courts areas of the justice and equality sector, grammes over a three-year period. A review of are included in this initial selection of services. the process by the Department of Finance and Additional services will be added over the com- the expenditure review central steering commit- ing months. tee in 2000-01 found that the target had been Reach is also working to provide essential on- over-ambitious, however, and that a more focused approach to the selection of review topics line capabilities for the benefit of customers and was required. This view was supported by the public service providers. The capabilities will Comptroller and Auditor General’s 2001 value include an integration framework that will allow for money study of the initiative, which proposed for the secure electronic transmission and that a more realistic target should be set that took exchange of service requests. An early version of into account the level of evaluative capacity in the framework is in operation in the form of the Departments generally. inter-agency messaging system, which facilitates In June 2001 the Government decided, inter secure messaging between agencies such as the alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- General Registrars Office, the Department of ual Departments and offices should compile and Social and Family Affairs and the Central Statis- agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- tics Office. My Department and the agencies in ific selection criteria. It was decided that the pro- the justice and equality sector are actively engag- grammes selected for review should reflect ing with the inter-agency messaging system Government priorities or strategic result areas, or framework to facilitate exchange of business should involve significant levels of expenditure, documents and data among the agencies in the etc. In May 2002, the Government approved a sector and to achieve the behind the scenes inte- schedule of expenditure review topics proposed gration that is necessary to deliver improved for the first year of the next three-year planning services. horizon, 2002-04, and noted the topics proposed The Reach agency is also developing facilities for 2003 and 2004. for registration and authentication of customer In April 2003, the expenditure review central identity, address validation, the pre-population of steering committee asked Departments and forms with previously registered data and an e- offices to update their expenditure review plans, payments facility. Another important facility is again in consultation with the Department of Fin- ance. The committee emphasised the Govern- the capability for developing and hosting on-line ment’s selection criteria and advised Depart- interactive forms which will be offered to Depart- ments and offices to select a small number of ments and agencies that are developing on-line programmes and areas involving major policy services for their customers. My Department is issues or significant levels of expenditure. in continuing discussions with the Reach agency Revised expenditure review plans were drawn up about the range of on-line services, combining a by Departments and offices on foot of this number of the new capabilities, which may be process. provided by the justice and equality sector in the My Department has engaged fully in the next phases of www.reachservices.ie. Rather than expenditure review initiative to date. Two expen- re-inventing, my Department intends to use these diture reviews have been completed recently, but capabilities where possible. have not yet been published. The first is a review of courthouse maintenance and building refur- Expenditure Reviews. bishment in the Courts Service. The review is 513. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- awaiting approval by the board of the Courts Ser- vice. When it has been approved by the board, it tice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department will be submitted to the Department of Finance’s has achieved the target, set out in the initiation central steering committee on programme eval- of the expenditure review initiative in 1997, that uation. The second review, which relates to the all Government expenditure be subject to a for- Prison Service’s health care expenditure between mal review under that initiative every three years; 1997 and 2002, will be forwarded shortly to the and if not, the areas of expenditure in respect of central steering committee. Both reviews will be which the three yearly review has not taken published on the Department’s website following place. [17581/04] consideration by the central steering committee. 514. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform the areas of Deportation Orders. expenditure of his Department in respect of 515. Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Justice, which an expenditure review under the expendi- Equality and Law Reform if he will suspend pro- ture review initiative has not yet been completed ceedings to deport a person (details supplied) in and published. [17596/04] Dublin 22. [17604/04] 603 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 604

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform statutory position regarding the right of a person (Mr. McDowell): The person referred to by the born in Ireland to acquire Irish citizenship as set Deputy is the subject of a deportation order out at present in section 6 of the Irish Nationality signed by me on 7 August 2003. The order is sub- and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended in 2001. ject to a judicial review challenge in the High The Government signalled its legislative inten- Court, but no injunction has been issued nor any tions with the publication of a document on 8 undertaking given suspending the implemen- April last which included the draft text of a Bill tation of the order. No undertaking will be given to give effect to its policy on citizenship following in respect of such a suspension except in the con- acceptance of the referendum proposal. The text of that court action. preparation of a Bill on those lines is proceeding in my Department in conjunction with the Office Citizenship Applications. of the Chief Parliamentary Counsel. I have pub- 516. Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Justice, licly indicated the Government’s commitment to Equality and Law Reform the status of an appli- consulting the relevant parties in the North in cation for citizenship made by a person (details advance of the publication of the Bill. I asked the supplied) in Dublin 15; and when a decision in Irish Human Rights Commission for its obser- this case is likely. [17605/04] vations on the draft Bill. When it is published, I expect that the Bill will take appropriate account Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of the consultations and observations. (Mr. McDowell): An application for naturalis- There is not and never has been a register of ation from the person referred to by the Deputy Irish-born citizens as such. There is no general was received in the citizenship section of my requirement for a person born in Ireland who Department on 10 December 2002. The appli- chooses to exercise the entitlement to Irish citi- cation is in the final stages of processing and I zenship arising from that birth to do anything as understand from my officials that it will be sub- a demonstration of that exercise. I do not propose mitted to me for decision in the near future. I to include provisions providing for such a register will inform the applicant and the Deputy of the in the forthcoming Bill. The question of the pro- outcome as soon as I have reached a decision on cedure for issuing passports is a matter for the the matter. Minister for Foreign Affairs. I do not expect the Constitutional Amendments. forthcoming Bill to include specific provisions relating to passport procedures. In the context of 517. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, the Bill, however, it is intended, to the greatest Equality and Law Reform the changed pro- extent possible consistent with the practicalities, cedures he intends to put in place to register chil- that there will be no difference in the steps neces- dren born here as Irish citizens and the charges sary for a person born in Ireland to establish he views this will impose on the public finances, entitlement to be an Irish citizen irrespective of in the event of the proposed citizenship refer- the place of birth in Ireland. As there are no endum being passed. [17618/04] implications in the acceptance by the people of 518. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, the referendum proposal for the Good Friday Equality and Law Reform if his attention has Agreement, I do not expect that the provisions of been drawn to the fact that persons born in the implementing Bill will have any such Northern Ireland can obtain an Irish passport by implications. simply presenting their birth certificate as part of 519. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, their application process; the changed procedures Equality and Law Reform if his Department he intends to put in place for persons resident in received any request from the UK Government Northern Ireland to claim Irish citizenship in the to consider holding a referendum on the issue of event of the proposed citizenship referendum citizenship. [17620/04] being passed; and his views on the way in which this may impact on the Belfast Agreement. [17619/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): No such request has been 520. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, received by my Department. Equality and Law Reform the provision he intends to make for persons who may become Question No. 520 answered with Question stateless in the event of the citizenship refer- No. 517. endum being passed. [17621/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Asylum Applications. (Mr. McDowell): I propose to take Questions 521. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Nos. 517, 518 and 520 together. Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the appro- No person will become stateless as a result of priate identification documents will issue to a per- the constitutional change approved by the people son (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if this on 11 June. The approval of the people of the person will be permitted to stay here; the status citizenship referendum and the consequent of their application; and the timeframe for deal- amendment of the Constitution do not change the ing with their application. [17625/04] 605 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 606

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (details supplied); and if he will make a statement (Mr. McDowell): The person in question arrived on the matter. [17632/04] in the State on 19 March 2003 and claimed asy- lum. The Office of the Refugee Applications Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Commissioner recommended that he should not (Mr. McDowell): The person concerned arrived be declared as a refugee and he was notified of in the State in November 2001 with her two sons this recommendation on 3 December 2003. The and two daughters and made an asylum appli- person in question appealed this recommendation cation. Her husband arrived in the State the fol- to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Following a lowing month, December 2001, and made an asy- hearing, the original recommendation was lum application. On 9 April 2002 she gave birth. affirmed and he was informed of this decision on The couple withdrew their asylum applications 19 January 2004. and applied for residency on the basis of parent- In accordance with section 3 of the Immi- age of the Irish-born child. Following the decision gration Act 1999, as amended, the person con- of the Supreme Court in the cases of L and O, cerned was informed on 27 January 2004 that it the separate procedure which existed to allow was proposed to make a deportation order in his persons to apply to reside in the State on the sole case. He was given the options of making rep- basis of parentage of an Irish-born child ended resentations within 15 working days to the Mini- on 19 February 2003. The Government decided ster for Justice, Equality and Law Reform setting that the separate procedure would not apply to out reasons why he should be allowed to remain cases which were outstanding on that date. There in the State, to voluntarily leave the State or to are a large number of such cases outstanding at consent to the making of a deportation order. present, including the case to which the Deputy Representations have been received on behalf of refers. the person concerned. This person’s case file will As the persons in question do not have an be considered within the terms set out in section alternative legal basis for remaining in this juris- 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 diction, the issue of permission to remain will be of the Refugee Act 1996 — prohibition of refoule- considered, but only in the context of a minis- ment. I expect his case file to be submitted to me terial proposal to deport them. If the Minister for consideration shortly. decides not to make a deportation order in the light of representations received and the range of 522. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for factors set out in section 3(6) of the Immigration Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an appeal to Act 1999, the persons in question will be given stay here on humanitarian grounds will be leave to remain on a humanitarian basis. I am expedited in the name of a person (details unable to say at this stage when the file will be supplied) in County Kilkenny. [17631/04] examined because of the large number of such cases on hand. Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The person in question arrived Visa Applications. in the State on 1 May 2002 and claimed asylum. The Office of the Refugee Applications Com- 524. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, missioner recommended that he should not be Equality and Law Reform the reason a person declared as a refugee and he was notified of this (details supplied) in County Waterford was recommendation on 25 March 2003. The person refused a spouse visa in favour of her husband; in question appealed the recommendation to the and if he will make a statement on the matter. Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Following an oral [17684/04] hearing, the original recommendation was Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform affirmed and he was informed of this decision on (Mr. McDowell): I can inform the Deputy that 31 July 2003. In accordance with section 3 of the the visa was approved on appeal on 3 June 2004. Immigration Act 1999, the person concerned was informed on 12 September 2003 that it was pro- Garda Operations. posed to make a deportation order in his case. He was given the options of making representations 525. Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, within 15 working days setting out the reasons as Equality and Law Reform the position regarding to why he should not be deported, but instead be the review that is taking place to extend Garda clearance by the Garda central vetting unit to allowed to remain temporarily in the State, leav- ´ ing the State voluntarily before the order was include prospective voluntary and FAS workers made or consenting to the making of a deport- who may have substantial unsupervised access to ation order. Representations have been received children; and if he will make a statement on the on behalf of the person concerned. This person’s matter. [17721/04] case file will be considered within the terms of Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 and (Mr. McDowell): I refer the Deputy to my reply section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 — prohibition to Question No. 54 of 1 June 2004. of refoulement. I expect his case file to be submit- ted to me for consideration shortly. Public Order Offences. 523. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for 526. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Jus- Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of tice, Equality and Law Reform if he will have the an application to stay here in the name of persons law and order issue as it affects an estate (details 607 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 608

[Mr. G. Mitchell.] changes or improvements in the women’s wing of supplied) in Dublin 12 examined comprehen- the Limerick Prison, regarding the lack of privacy sively with a view to taking steps to restoring around the toilet facilities in the prisoners’ order in same. [17763/04] cells. [17782/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): The Garda authorities have (Mr. McDowell): I propose to take Questions informed me that the area in question is policed Nos. 529 and 530 together. by gardaı´ from Kilmainham Garda station. The The issues highlighted by the 2003 prisons ´ regular patrols by uniformed gardaı and detective inspectorate report on the various prisons and personnel are assisted by the divisional crime task places of detention are being addressed through force, the special resource unit, the drugs unit and the Garda mountain bike unit. A community pol- the prisons capital building programme. A new icing Garda is also assigned to the area on a full- block with space for 100 prisoners has recently time basis. I have been further informed that been opened at Limerick Prison. This work also there have been recent incidents of vandalism included a major refurbishment of E wing where and public order committed by juveniles, some of modern fully equipped accommodation for whom have been identified and held responsible. female prisoners has been provided. The cells are The rest of the incidents remain under investi- equipped with a specially designed modesty gation. The Garda authorities have assured me screen. I recently announced that I am contem- that they consider that the policing resources allo- plating the building of a new prison on Spike cated to the area are satisfactory and that they Island. This new facility would augment the exist- are kept under constant review. ing Fort Mitchel detention centre on the island as Question No. 527 answered with Question well as replacing the existing Cork Prison. It No. 489. would be a significant prison complex with separ- ate sections devoted to male adult prisoners, Prisoner Complaints Procedures. young offenders aged 16 to 17 years and female prisoners. 528. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide 531. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, details of allegations of misconduct made by pris- Equality and Law Reform the number of women oners in the women’s wing of Limerick Prison being held in Limerick Prison; and the average against the prison staff, including the number of for each month since January 2001. [17783/04] allegations, the nature of the allegations, whether investigations have been carried out by a neutral Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform third party and the outcomes of these investi- (Mr. McDowell): There were 13 female prisoners gations since January 2000. [17780/04] in Limerick Prison on 10 June 2004. Figures relat- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform ing to the number of women in custody for the (Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the director tenth day, or the nearest date for which figures general of the Prison Service that allegations by are available, of each month since January 2001 two prisoners in the female section of Limerick are set out in the following table: Prison — that they were sexually assaulted by a named prison officer — were investigated fully 2001 2002 2003 2004 by prison management and independently by the Garda, which found that the claims were January 9 14 16 18 unfounded. The allegations were made against two individual officers in separate incidents. I also February 13 16 17 17 understand that one of the complainants sub- March 16 17 17 15 sequently admitted to the Garda that she had April 12 14 14 12 made a false allegation to secure a transfer back May 17 17 16 16 to a Dublin prison or a release from custody early June 16 14 16 13 in her sentence. The person was no longer in pri- son custody when she withdrew her allegation. July 17 15 12 — August 18 19 12 — Prison Accommodation. September 18 14 14 — 529. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, October 18 17 15 — Equality and Law Reform if there has been November 17 14 18 — further development of plans, as mentioned in December 15 16 19 — the Irish Prisons Inspectorate’s 2003 report, for a new female prison, similar in design to the Do´ chas Centre at Mountjoy, at Limerick Prison; Ministerial Appointments. if so, the timeframe for construction of the prison; 532. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, and the new facilities which will be available for Equality and Law Reform the appointments that the prisoners. [17781/04] have been made to State boards and bodies 530. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, within his Department from 1 January 2003 to 15 Equality and Law Reform if, since the Irish Pri- June 2004; the persons appointed; and the per- sons Inspectorate report in 2003, there have been sons they are replacing. [17803/04] 609 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 610

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Deputy is set out in the following tabular (Mr. McDowell): The information requested by statement:

Name of Board Person Appointed Date of Persons Being Replaced Appointment

Censorship of Publications Ms Paula Mullolly (Chair) 29/03/2004 Mr Padraig O’Connell (Chair) Appeals Board Ms Mary Banotti Mr Mike Burns Mr David Goldberg Mr Francis O’Driscoll Ms Clare Martin Mr Denis Lenihan Mr. David Quinn Mr Seamus Hughes

Legal Aid Board Ms Anne Colley (Chair) 19/09/2003 Mr Eamon Leahy (Chair) Mr David Barnaville BL Ms Anne Colley — ordinary member (who became chair)

Human Rights Commission Ms Maureen Harding Clark 11/05/2004 Ms Jane Liddy

Equality Authority Board Ms Karen Erwin, (Chair) 23/06/2003 Ms Kate Hayes, (Chair) Ms Mary Keogh Ms Anne Clune Mr Bob Quinn Ms Anne Arthur-O’Brien Mr Leonard Hurley * Mr Tony Donohoe * Ms Marie Moynihan * Ms Joan Carmichael * Mr Paddy Keating * * Re-appointed Ms Grainne Healy * Ms Carol Fawsitt * Mr Thomas McCann * Mr Cearbhall O’Meadhra*

Prisons Authority Interim Mr James Martin 31/05/2004 Mr Michael Mellett Board

Justice and Equality Sector Ms Olive Braiden (Chair) Established May, Performance verification Group Ms Jacqui Browne 2003 (JES PVG) Mr Jerry Carroll Ms Rosaleen Glackin Mr John Clinton Mr Moling Ryan Mr Steve Magner

National Crime Council Mr Padraic White (Chair) * July, 2003 * All reappointments D/Commissioner Peter Fitzgerald * Judge Michael Reilly * Mr Fergus McCabe * Ms Lillian McGovern * Mr Jack Marrinan * Mrs Rosemary Tierney * Ms Mary Ellen Ring, SC * Professor Dermot Walsh* Ms Deirdre Kenneally * Mr Philip Maguire * Rev Gerard Godley * Mr Sean Hegarty * Mr Ken O’Leary * Mr. Tom Coffey July, 2003 Mr. John Hynes Mr. John Kenny July, 2003 Mr. Nelius Moriarty

Internet Advisory Board Ms Anne Conroy, Barnardos July, 2003 Ms Marguerite McCormack Mr Kieran Grace, Department July, 2003 Mr Michael English, Department of Enterprise, Trade and of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Employment Mr Kevin Birkett, O´ gra Chorcaı´ Aug, 2003 Terence Kelly, O´ gra Chorcai Ms Audrey Conlon (Chair) Sept, 2003 Eamon Barnes Mr Philip Watt, National March, 2004 New appointment Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism Mr Cormac Callanan, Director June, 2004 New appointment General for the Association of Internet Hotline providers in Europe 611 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 612

Name of Board Person Appointed Date of Persons Being Replaced Appointment

Refugee Appeals Tribunal Mr John Ryan (Chair) 03/12/2003 PJ Farrell (Chair) Mr Eamon Cahill * 20/11/2003 * Reappointed Mr Aidan Eames * 20/11/2003 Mr Eamonn Barnes * 20/11/2003 Mr Jim Nicholson * 20/11/2003 Mr Donal Egan * 20/11/2003 Mr Patrick Hurley * 20/11/2003 Ms Sunniva McDonagh * 20/11/2003 Mr Des Zaiden * 20/11/2003 Ms Bernadette Cronin * 20/11/2003 Mr Michael O’Kennedy * 20/11/2003 Ms Doreen Shivnen 23/01/2004 Monica Lawlor, B.L. Mr Con Murphy 13/02/2004 Ms Olive Brennan 30/04/2003 Mr Bernard McCabe 12/01/2004 Ms Mary E Laverty 12/01/2004 Mr David McHugh 12/01/2004 Mr Ricardo Dourado 12/01/2004 Ms Elizabeth O’Brien 12/01/2004 Ms Susan Nolan 08/03/2004 Ms Samantha Cruess Callaghan 10/03/2004

Courts Service Board Mr Caoimhı´nO´ hUiginn January, 2004 Mr Michael Mellett

Garda Sı´ocha´na Complaints Assistant Commissioner Noel 25/11/2003 Assistant Commissioner Walter I. Board Smith Rice

Garda Sı´ocha´na Complaints Judge Mathew Deery (Chair) 23/12/2003 Reappointed Appeal Board Ms Anne Walsh Mr Brendan Looby Mr James Gregory Mr Cornelius Brosnan

Garda Sı´ocha´na IT and Mr Cyril Dunne Feb, 2003 Mr Michael Sweeney Telecommunications Executive Mr Pa´draic Conway Mr Fionna´n O’Sullivan Committee (deceased)

The Deputy will be aware that details of appoint- Prison Visiting Committees. ments to the various prison visiting committees 533. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, have been provided in response to the Deputy’s Equality and Law Reform the appointments that Question No. 533 of 15 June 2004. In accordance have been made to the visiting committees for with the provisions of regulation 25 of the Garda each Irish prison from 1 January 2003 to 15 June Sı´ocha´na (Discipline) Regulations 1989, I nomi- 2004; the persons appointed; and the persons they nated Mr. Fergal Foley BL and Mr. Kevin Cross are replacing. [17807/04] BL to a panel of persons from which the Garda Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Commissioner can appoint, as the need arises, a (Mr. McDowell): The attached table sets out the chairman of a Garda Sı´ocha´na appeal board. The names of the individuals who have been nominations, which came into effect from 1 June appointed or re-appointed to the various prison 2003, are not strictly speaking appointments to visiting committees for the period between 1 Jan- positions but nominations to a panel from which uary 2003 and 15 June 2004. Aside from the re- appointments might be made. The nominations appointments, it is not possible to state categori- were made to fill two positions on this panel left cally which persons were replaced on the visiting vacant following the appointment of Mr. Brian committees by the new appointees listed, given Curtin BL to the Circuit Court in November 2001 that in some instances not all vacancies which and the death of Mr. Michael Feehan SC in 2002. occurred were filled.

Name of Visiting Committee Name Appointment Date

Arbour Hill Prison visiting committee Jim Hanrahan 17 February, 2003

Ita Greene 17 February, 2003 Castlerea Prison visiting committee Nuala Carroll 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Ken Glynn 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Susan Meagher 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Christy Gorman 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Michael Nevin 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Geraldine Lambert 3 July, 2003 (Re-appointment) 613 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 614

Name of Visiting Committee Name Appointment Date

Paul Hogan 17 February, 2003 Eddie Brady 26 March, 2003

Cloverhill Prison visiting committee Peggy Downey 7 December, 2003 (re-appointment) Fintan Hudson 7 December, 2003 (re-appointment) Eddie Martin 7 December, 2003 (re-appointment) Dermot Flynn 7 December, 2003 Christine Ryan 7 December, 2003 Michael Coyle 7 December, 2003 (re-appointment)

Cork Prison visiting committee Terry Kelly 17 February, 2003 Ca´it Uı´ Fhaola´in 18 December, 2003 (re-appointment) Eileen Curran 18 December, 2003

Curragh Place of Detention Gerry McMahon 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Paddy Cullotty 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Evelyn Varley 17 February, 2003 (re-appointment) Ma´irı´n Hyland 17 February, 2003 Michael Hanrahan 17 February, 2003 Wilhelmena Daly 17 February, 2003 Brian O’Reilly 26 March, 2003

Fort Mitchel Place of Detention visiting Margaret Coady 17 February, 2003 committee

Midlands Prison visiting committee Colm Wiley 9 April, 2004 (re-appointment) Teresa Mulhare 9 April, 2004 (re-appointment) Jennifer Murnane O’Connor 9 April, 2004 (re-appointment) Patrick Boland 9 April, 2004 (re-appointment) Nuala Halpin 9 April, 2004 (re-appointment) Brigid Teefy 19 April, 2004 (re-appointment)

Mountjoy Prison visiting committee Bernie Nolan 4 April, 2004 (re-appointment) Paddie Connellan 4 April, 2004 (re-appointment)

Portlaoise Prison visiting committee Tom Colgan 18 December, 2003 Michael Hough 18 December, 2003 Eilis Croke 3 March, 2004 Ann Turley 3 March, 2004

Shelton Abbey Place of Detention visiting John Murphy 17 February, 2003 committee

Visa Applications. cation was refused because it had not been estab- lished, on the basis of the documentation sup- 534. Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Jus- tice, Equality and Law Reform the progress plied to my Department, that the applicant would which has been made in relation to an appeal by observe the conditions of the visa. In particular, a person (details supplied); if, in view of the it was considered that the applicant had not dis- medical circumstances in this case, he will make played sufficient evidence of his obligations to an early decision; and if he will make a statement return home following his proposed visit. My on the matter. [17822/04] Department does not have any record of having received an appeal in relation to this visa appli- Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform cation. It is open to the applicant to appeal (Mr. McDowell): The person in question made a against the refusal by writing to the visa appeals visa application in March 2004. The applicant officer of my Department. stated on his application form that his intention was to visit Ireland and documentation Road Traffic Offences. accompanying the application stated he had an appointment for a consultation at an Irish medi- 535. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, cal clinic. No supporting evidence of a medical Equality and Law Reform if he will provide the condition was submitted with the application. It most recent statistics available to him on the was noted that a previous visa application made numbers of prosecutions taken or sanctions by the applicant in November 2003 had also been imposed against drivers of off-road dumpers refused by my Department. The current appli- which are found to have a load in excess of the 615 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 616

[Ms Shortall.] come here from the USA (details supplied); and licensed maximum; if he has satisfied himself with if he will make a statement on the matter. the level of enforcement of road traffic legislation [17898/04] in this respect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17841/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): If the person concerned is a US Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform citizen he will not require a visa to enter the (Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by the State. If he intends to remain in Ireland for longer Garda authorities that between 1 January 2002 than 90 days, he must register with the Garda and and 10 June 2004, that there were 567 cases where obtain permission to remain in the State. proceedings had commenced against either the Depending on his individual circumstances, it owner or drivers of vehicles exceeding the may be that he is eligible for the work authoris- maximum weight applying to such vehicles. It is ation scheme which applies in respect of certain not possible to indicate the number of pro- categories of professionals whose skills are in ceedings which apply to off-load dumpers as short supply. Otherwise it is likely that it will be statistics are not compiled in such a way as to necessary for a potential employer to obtain a distinguish between vehicle types. I am assured work permit on his behalf. Information on by the Garda authorities that, as part of Oper- employment permits is available on ation Lifesaver, the Garda continues to target www.entemp.ie. overweight heavy goods vehicles for possible breaches of the law. Visa Applications.

Residency Permits. 539. Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will 536. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, be made on an application by a person (details Equality and Law Reform the situation regarding supplied); and if he will make a statement on the an application for residency by a person (details matter. [17931/04] supplied) in Dublin 6W. [17866/04] Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell): I can inform the Deputy that (Mr. McDowell): Consideration of the appli- the application in question was approved on 14 cation in question is almost finalised. It is June 2004. expected that a decision will issue shortly. Wildlife Conservation. Garda Complaints Procedures. 540. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the 537. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person the position in relation to farmers who want to (details supplied) in County Kerry had been pre- burn, cut hedges and so on; the time of the year viously appointed as a member of a Garda Sı´och- this work can be carried out; and if he will make a´na Complaints Appeal Board prior to their a statement on the matter. [17293/04] appointment to office as a judge; if so, the details thereof, including the date of appointment and Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the total remuneration or expense received. Local Government (Mr. Cullen): Wildlife legis- [17873/04] lation lays down a number of restrictions designed to protect bird life during the nesting Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform season, to prevent forest fires and to protect veg- (Mr. McDowell): There is no record of the person etation and wildlife habitats during the months of mentioned by the Deputy having been appointed growth and reproduction. Under section 40(1)(a) as a member of the Garda Sı´ocha´na Complaints of the Wildlife Act 1976, as amended by section Appeal Board under the Garda Sı´ocha´na 46 of the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000, it is (Complaints) Act 1986. The person in question an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or was nominated in May 2001 to a panel of persons otherwise destroy any vegetation growing on land from which the Garda Commissioner can not then cultivated during the period from 1 appoint, as the need arises, a chairman of a Garda March to 31 August. Sı´ocha´na Appeal Board under regulation 25 of Under section 40(1)(b) of the Act as amended, the Garda Sı´ocha´na (Discipline) Regulations it is an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or 1989. The person mentioned was never appointed otherwise destroy any vegetation growing in any chairman of an appeal board and automatically hedge or ditch during the period from 1 March to ceased to be on the panel in November 2001. I 31 August. During this period it is not an offence, wrote separately to the Deputy in this regard on in the ordinary course of agriculture or forestry, 11 June. to destroy vegetation growing in a hedge or ditch or to cut or grub isolated furze bushes or growths Residency Permits. of fern, or to destroy any noxious weed to which 538. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, the Noxious Weeds Act 1936 applies. Section 39 Equality and Law Reform the procedures that of the Wildlife Act 1976 lays down further par- have to be adopted by a person who wishes to ticular restrictions and prohibitions on the burn- 617 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 618 ing of vegetation or the lighting of a fire near Global Atmosphere. The summary for pol- woods and other specified sites and specifies con- icymakers is available at http://www.ipcc.ch/pub/ ditions to be met if it is proposed to burn reports.htm. The panel produced this report fol- vegetation. lowing a request from the International Civil Aviation Organisation to assess the consequences Local Authority Staff. of greenhouse gas emissions from aircraft 541. Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the engines. Environment, Heritage and Local Government if The Irish scientific community contributes to his attention has been drawn to the fact that the work of the intergovernmental panel on inspectors’ reports signed off by senior planners climate change. Measurement of cloud cover and are lacking all relevant professional and other solar input are made at both Valentia and Mace qualifications on planning matters; his views on Head, County Galway, for scientific and research whether matters as serious as planning require purposes. The work by the panel informs the that all correspondence signed by senior officials United Nations Framework Convention on should be signed off with full qualifications Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol. In this clearly stated; and if he will make a statement on context, Ireland participates in the global United the matter. [17153/04] Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and Kyoto process within the EU in the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and light of the continuing need for further and sus- Local Government (Mr. Cullen): As local auth- tained action across all policy areas to ensure that orities are independent statutory bodies with Kyoto targets are met and further reductions in their own management systems, the administrat- greenhouse gas emissions are made subsequently. ive procedures which a planning authority uses I am satisfied that EU and Government policy for the preparation and signing off of planning should continue to be developed in the context of reports and correspondence is properly a matter the analysis and advice provided by the for individual planning authorities themselves. intergovernmental panel on climate change. The There are stringent standards for entry to posi- special report on aviation and global atmosphere tions as professional planners in the local auth- reinforces the necessity for further work to orities. Candidates must hold a qualification in reduce scientific and other uncertainties, under- town planning recognised by the Local Appoint- stand better the options for reducing emissions, ments Commissioners and have a minimum of better inform decision makers, and improve the between three and seven years’ satisfactory post- understanding of the social and economic issues graduate experience of town planning, depending associated with the demand for air transport. on the post involved. The assistant planner grade I understand that the high rate of transatlantic is open to newly graduated planners or individ- flights over Ireland is not of special significance uals without a qualification in town planning in regard to climate change in Ireland, as the recognised by the Local Appointments Com- effects are primarily global rather than localised. missioners, but who have a relevant qualification, such as in architecture, engineering, chartered EU Directives. surveying, environmental economics, geography, 543. Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for the and who have at least two years’ relevant experi- Environment, Heritage and Local Government if ence. In general, candidates for all planner posts his Department has received a letter of formal would be expected to possess a high standard of warning or similar correspondence from the technical training and experience. In light of these environmental directorate of the EU Commission requirements, it would not normally be necessary relating to concerns on the part of that director- for qualifications to be indicated on reports or ate regarding the proposal currently before An correspondence. Bord Pleana´la to develop a large scale landfill at Garrynagree, Dungarvan, County Waterford; if Greenhouse Gas Emissions. so, if he has responded to this correspondence; if 542. Ms McManus asked the Minister for the not, when he proposes to respond and the terms Environment, Heritage and Local Government if in which; if he will publish the text of the corre- his attention has been drawn to the studies car- spondence received and his response; if the corre- ried out that show atmospheric change caused by spondence received from the Commission has vapour trails from jet planes; his views on the been furnished to An Bord Pleana´la and the high rate of transatlantic flights over Ireland; if Environmental Protection Agency in order that research has been done or will be done on this their attention may be drawn to the Com- matter regarding Ireland; and if he will make a mission’s concerns in a timely manner having statement on the matter. [17165/04] regard to the exercise of their own statutory func- tion relating to the proposal; and if the correspon- Minister for the Environment, Heritage and dence will be placed in the library of the Houses Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I am aware of of the Oireachtas. [17169/04] research and studies in this area, including a special report prepared and published by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and intergovernmental panel on climate change in Local Government (Mr. Cullen): My Department 1999, entitled IPCC Special Report Aviation and has received a formal letter of notice from the 619 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 620

[Mr. Cullen.] Ballybunion Castle, County Kerry, will be desig- European Commission on a proposed landfill nated a national monument; and if he will make development at Garrynagree in County Water- a statement on the matter. [17316/04] ford. I intend to have a formal response issued to Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Commission in advance of the extended reply Local Government (Mr. Cullen): Ballybunion deadline of 1 August 2004. Castle is listed on the record of monuments and Any consultations regarding correspondence of places. While it is not of national significance, it this kind that take place with partner bodies of is an important monument for the local com- my Department would be for the purpose of the munity. I understand that the monument is in the compilation, by Ireland, of as complete a care of Kerry County Council. All resources response as possible to the issues raised by the available to my Department are committed to Commission. It would not be for the purposes of existing monuments in State care. inputting the Commission’s correspondence into the decision-making processes of bodies who are 547. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the independent in the exercise of their statutory Environment, Heritage and Local Government if functions in particular cases; correspondence of he will raise at Cabinet the possibility of the State this kind from the Commission would more usu- purchasing the Clondalkin round tower and ally arise after such decisions are made. The legal adjoining site from the developer with a view to advice to my Department is that it would not be developing it as a public park with the designated appropriate to publish or generally make avail- heritage centre possibly housed in the adjoining able copies of such correspondence with the protected cottage (details supplied), thus negat- European Commission, as it comprises material ing the need to build on the site, which is cur- which could form the basis of pleadings in sub- rently under threat, and providing a means of sequent legal proceedings before the European secure access to the proposed park; if such a pro- Court of Justice. posal is in line with Du´ chas guidelines regarding Reports have been sought from the Environ- national monuments and preserves the site for mental Protection Agency and Waterford County future generations; and if he will make a state- Council on the Commission’s correspondence on ment on the matter. [17331/04] the Garrynagree case. These have now been 572. Mr. Curran asked the Minister for the received and are under consideration in my Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Department. his Department will assess the feasibility of the State acquiring approximately half an acre of land Constituency Commission. in the immediate vicinity of the Clondalkin round 544. Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the tower to be used as an open public amenity Environment, Heritage and Local Government area. [17890/04] the electoral divisions which are divided between two separate constituencies as the result of pre- Minister for the Environment, Heritage and vious election revisions; and if he will make a Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I propose to statement on the matter. [17264/04] take Questions Nos. 547 and 572 together. The round tower in Clondalkin is a national 545. Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the monument in State care and its conservation and Environment, Heritage and Local Government maintenance is managed on behalf of my Depart- his views on the negative implications of dividing ment by the Office of Public Works. My Depart- an electoral area between two constituencies; and ment has no plans for the acquisition of land or if he will make a statement on the matter. property surrounding the national monument. I [17265/04] am informed that South Dublin County Council Minister for the Environment, Heritage and has been in negotiation with a third party regard- Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I propose to ing a proposed development in the vicinity of the take Questions Nos. 544 and 545 together. round tower. The objective underlying these The information sought is not readily available negotiations is to ensure that any such develop- but can be accessed by examination of the Acts ment will be in sympathy with, and complemen- providing for revisions of Da´il constituencies tary to, the adjacent national monument. Any most recently the Electoral (Amendment) (No. planning application for development impacting 2) Act 1998, the Electoral (Amendment) Act on this or any other national monument would 1995, the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1990, and have to be referred for comment to my Depart- the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1983. The back- ment for implications for heritage conservation. ground to recommendations on changes to Da´il constituencies since 1980 is set out in the various Planning Issues. Constituency Commission reports, which were 548. Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the implemented in the referred Acts. Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legislation which exists to investigate the pro- National Monuments. cedures and practices of a local authority regard- 546. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the ing inaction on planning enforcement issues. Environment, Heritage and Local Government if [17332/04] 621 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 622

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and services investment programme, 2004-2006, under Local Government (Mr. Cullen): Direct responsi- the rural towns and villages initiative. The bility for ensuring compliance with planning per- approval incorporates Exchequer funding at the missions in individual cases is a matter for the serviced land initiative rate of 40% for sewer relevant planning authority. The legislation has extensions to Skaghardgannon and Brough Cross. not assigned powers to the Minister for the Envir- I recently approved the acceptance by Cork onment, Heritage and Local Government to County Council of the tender for the civil works enforce planning permissions or conditions or to associated with the collection system for the direct authorities to take action in individual scheme. Additional information required by my cases. Section 255 of the Planning and Develop- Department to facilitate consideration of the ten- ment Act 2000 enables the Minister to direct der documents for the wastewater treatment planning authorities to review their organisation, plant, which is being procured as part of a gro- systems and procedures. Where the Minister uped design/build/operate contract that also forms the opinion that a planning authority may includes Kilbrin and Buttevant, has recently been not be carrying out its functions in accordance received from the council and is under with the Act, the Minister may appoint a com- examination. missioner to carry out these functions. The Office 551. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the of the Ombudsman is the statutory body estab- Environment, Heritage and Local Government if lished to investigate complaints regarding the the Buttevant sewerage scheme in County Cork administrative practices of planning authorities has been sanctioned; if a tender to carry out the including the area of planning enforcement. work has been accepted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17355/04] Local Authority Housing. 549. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Environment, Heritage and Local Govern- Local Government (Mr. Cullen): The Buttevant ment further to Parliamentary Question No. 1288 sewerage scheme has been approved for funding of 30 September 2003 if funding will now be in my Department’s water services investment passed for a voluntary housing project at the Five programme, 2004-2006, under the rural towns and Acres, Celbridge, County Kildare; if all of the villages initiative. information requested from Kildare County Additional information required by my Council has been submitted; and if so, the time- Department to facilitate consideration of the ten- frame for a final decision. [17347/04] der documents for the wastewater treatment plant element of the scheme, which is being pro- Minister of State at the Department of the cured as part of a grouped design/build/operate Environment, Heritage and Local Government contract that also includes Kilbrin and Doneraile, (Mr. N. Ahern): Information requested from has recently been received from the council and Kildare County Council last year on this project is under examination. The submission of the was received earlier this year in my Department. council’s report on tenders for the collection sys- Following a review of this information, the coun- tem for the Buttevant scheme is awaited by my cil were requested in May to provide further sup- Department. port material to this project. Further consider- ation will be given to the council’s funding Question No. 552 answered with Question applications for this project as soon as this infor- No. 550. mation is received. Register of Electors. Water and Sewerage Schemes. 553. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the 550. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the reason it was decided to allow non-nationals the Doneraile sewerage scheme in County Cork who are not EU citizens to vote in local elections; has been sanctioned; if a tender to carry out the and if he will make a statement on the matter. work has been accepted; and if he will make a [17396/04] statement on the matter. [17354/04] Minister for the Environment, Heritage and 552. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the Local Government (Mr. Cullen): The Electoral Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Act 1963 provided that a person shall be entitled the plans for Skaghardgannon and Brough Cross to be registered as a local government elector in extension in the Doneraile sewerage scheme will a local electoral area if he or she has reached the be approved; and if he will make a statement on age of 18 and was, on the qualifying date, ordi- the matter. [17356/04] narily resident in that area. The legislation makes Minister for the Environment, Heritage and no distinction or requirement regarding the Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I propose to nationality of the resident. take Questions Nos. 550 and 552 together. Private Rented Accommodation. The Doneraile sewerage scheme has been approved for funding in my Department’s water 554. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the 623 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 624

[Mr. Haughey.] loans approved by local authorities on or after 1 Environment, Heritage and Local Government July 1986. The terms of the cover under the the measures he is taking to prevent escalating scheme was negotiated by a sub-committee of the rents in the housing market; and if he will make County and City Managers’ Association, the a statement on the matter. [17399/04] Housing Finance Agency and a representative of my Department. These terms are renegotiated Minister of State at the Department of the periodically by the committee. Environment, Heritage and Local Government The cost of the scheme is met by way of an (Mr. N. Ahern): Measures to ensure moderation additional charge, currently 0.598%, to the rate of rent levels in the private rented sector have of interest charged on individual loans. One of been targeted at boosting supply of available the conditions of the scheme, which is a group accommodation. Successive years of record hous- policy, is that it is obligatory for all local authority ing output, together with the re-introduction in 2002 of interest deductibility against tax on rental borrowers who meet the eligibility criteria to join income generally, has resulted in increased supply the scheme. Altering this condition would have a of accommodation available for renting. This in negative impact on the scheme and increase the turn has led to declining rents. The Central Statis- cost for all existing borrowers. Borrowers who tics Office has recently released figures indicating have existing loans with local authorities have the that average rents have declined by almost 7.5% option of redeeming these loans and refinancing since March 2002. The March 2004 Gunne report in the private sector. found that average rents in Dublin have declined 557. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the by as much as 18% overall since 2001 with about Environment, Heritage and Local Government if 6% of the decline occurring in the period March he will further review the first-time buyer’s grant 2003 to March 2004. application in the case of a person (details The Residential Tenancies Bill 2003, currently supplied) in County Kildare; if they have received before the Oireachtas, provides that rents are to misleading information in relation to the cut off be no greater than the market rate and that rent timeframe for such applications; and if he will reviews are to take place no more frequently than make a statement on the matter. [17504/04] once a year unless there has been a substantial change in the nature of the accommodation in the Minister of State at the Department of the interim. The legislative reforms will also increase Environment, Heritage and Local Government the attractiveness of the sector to investors and (Mr. N. Ahern): The final deadline for occupation thereby further underpin the positive trends in and receipt of claim for payment of the new supply and rents. house grant was 2 April 2004. This statutory con- dition, which was notified to the applicant on 21 Grant Payments. November 2003 and 27 February 2004 and pub- 555. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the lished in the main daily newspapers on the 27 Environment, Heritage and Local Government if March 2004, cannot be set aside in any particular there is grant aid available to enable persons to case. As a claim for payment was not received remove and dispose of asbestos roofing from in this case before the deadline, a grant cannot their dwelling houses or ancillary buildings; and be allowed. if he will make a statement on the matter. [17443/04] Local Authority Housing. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and 558. Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Local Government (Mr. Cullen): No such grant Environment, Heritage and Local Government if assistance is available from my Department. his attention has been drawn to the fact that more and more applicants for affordable housing are Housing Grants. above the income limit for local authorities and are unable to secure loans from financial insti- 556. Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for the tutions; and when the income thresholds for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if schemes will be increased. [17536/04] he will address the issue of mortgage protection insurance for persons who are taking out loans 565. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the from the county council and who are not allowed Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the freedom to acquire their own insurance inde- he will increase the upper limit for purchase of pendently and are being forced to pay a much a house under the shared ownership scheme in higher rate to obtain it from their local authority; Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the and if he will make a statement on the matter. matter. [17606/04] [17461/04] Minister of State at the Department of the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern): I propose to take Questions Nos. (Mr. N. Ahern): The local authorities’ 1986 mort- 558 and 565 together. gage protection scheme has applied, subject to I refer to the reply to Question No. 189 of 3 the terms of the scheme, to all house purchase June 2004. 625 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 626

EU Directives. Glantane sewerage scheme, Glantane, Mallow, County Cork. [17538/04] 559. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Ireland is yet fully compliant with the terms of Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I understand the EU urban wastewater directive as promised that this scheme is being progressed by Cork in the joint programme. [17537/04] County Council under the small public schemes measure of the rural water programme for which Minister for the Environment, Heritage and responsibility has been devolved to the local Local Government (Mr. Cullen): Excellent pro- authorities. gress is being made nationally in the provision of wastewater treatment facilities to meet the Electronic Communications. requirements of the EU urban wastewater treat- ment directive. Since 2000, wastewater collection 561. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the and treatment systems have been completed Environment, Heritage and Local Government if under my Department’s water services invest- all public services provided by his Department ment programme in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and that are capable of electronic delivery are avail- Galway and in the major towns of Dundalk, able electronically through a single point of con- Drogheda, Wexford, Midleton, Westport and tact, as was promised in the joint programme; and Courtown and Riverchapel. if not, if he will make a statement or explanation in respect of each service not yet so provided. The recently completed Ringsend wastewater [17567/04] treatment plant in Dublin deals with the waste- water treatment requirements of all of Dublin Minister for the Environment, Heritage and city and south Dublin county, significant areas of Local Government (Mr. Cullen): There are a Du´ n Laoghaire-Rathdown and Fingal, and parts number of public services capable of electronic of County Meath. It will produce the single delivery by my Department. The key service in biggest ever improvement in the quality of Irish terms of volume of transactions and customers is coastal waters and will restore bathing water stan- motor tax renewal. This service has been avail- dards throughout Dublin Bay. Other major able over the Internet to vehicle owners nation- schemes under construction, or due to start this wide at http://www.motortax.ie since February year, include those at Cork Lower Harbour, Dun- 2004. The service has already been used by over garvan, Tramore, Waterford, Sligo and 120,000 customers, paying almost \30 million in Bray/Shanganagh. Schemes for Bundoran, Let- motor tax. terkenny and New Ross are expected to com- In the case of on-line notification of change of mence in 2005, together with the Arklow main vehicle ownership, a preliminary business analysis drainage scheme, subject to the outcome of legal has been undertaken and work on making the proceedings relating to the location of the treat- service available through vehicle traders will ment plant in the latter case. begin this year to go live in 2005. In the case of The urban wastewater treatment directive on-line application for archaeological licences, requires specific wastewater treatment and/or col- my Department has recently invited tenders for lection facilities to be in place by 31 December the development of a national archaeology webs- 2005 for discharges from a graduated range of ite, which will include a facility to apply and pay agglomeration thresholds. The current water ser- for archaeological licences. The development vices investment programme, which covers the contract will be awarded shortly and the service will be available in early 2005. years 2004 to 2006, incorporates all the remaining Services are not currently being delivered wastewater schemes needed for full compliance through a central Government portal as this is not with the directive. It also includes all the schemes yet available to my Department. However, I required to give effect to the commitment in the understand that the first phase of the public ser- agreed programme for Government for the pro- vices broker being provided by Reach will go live vision of wastewater treatment for all agglomer- towards the end of this month and that a further ations with populations of more than 1,000. phase of the portal, including some on-line ser- At the beginning of the national development vice provision, will be available in the autumn. In plan, compliance with the year 2005 requirements addition, my Department provides information of the urban wastewater treatment directive on a range of services through its website, http:// stood at 25%. This had risen to 84% by the end www.environ.ie and through a number of dedi- of 2003. Overall, I am satisfied with the rate of cated sites such as http://www.enfo.ie, http:// progress being achieved in the wastewater treat- www.buildingsofireland.ie and http:// www.irishs- ment area in response to our obligations under patialstrategy.com. the directive. Expenditure Reviews. Water and Sewerage Schemes. 562. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the 560. Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Environment, Heritage and Local Government his Department has achieved the target, set out when he intends giving the go-ahead for the in the initiation of the expenditure review initiat- 627 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 628

[Mr. J. Bruton.] 564. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the ive in 1997, that all Government expenditure be Environment, Heritage and Local Government subject to a formal review under that initiative the steps he has taken to implement the recom- every three years; and if not, the areas of expen- mendation of the Comptroller and Auditor Gen- diture in respect of which the three yearly review eral that his Department should analyse underly- has not taken place. [17582/04] ing trends in regard to planning appeals in order better to evaluate the overall effectiveness of the 563. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the planning system; and the results of this analysis Environment, Heritage and Local Government to date. [17601/04] the areas of expenditure of his Department in respect of which an expenditure review under the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and expenditure review initiative has not yet been Local Government (Mr. Cullen): Following pub- completed and published. [17597/04] lication of the Comptroller and Auditor Gen- Minister for the Environment, Heritage and eral’s report in 2002, a committee of officials from Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I propose to my Department and An Bord Pleana´la was estab- take Questions Nos. 562 and 563 together. lished to review the trends in planning appeals. The initial target of the expenditure review An Bord Pleana´la has carried out studies into cer- initiative was to review all expenditure pro- tain categories of appeals, which were published grammes over a three year period. However, a in its 2003 annual report. Studies into further cat- review of the process by the Department of Fin- egories of appeals are currently underway and ance and expenditure review central steering will be published in due course. committee in 2000-1 found that this target had Following on from a recommendation in the been overambitious and that a more focused report that identifying and investigation vari- approach to the selection of review themes was ations in the rates of appeals against decisions of required. This view was supported by a individual planning authorities and in the rate of Comptroller and Auditor General value for overturn of decisions on appeal could point to money study of the expenditure review initiative areas where action might be taken by my Depart- in 2001 which proposed that a more realistic tar- ment to ensure consistency of planning authority get should be set that took into account the level decision-making, my Department is also engaged of evaluative capacity in Departments generally. in a study of the number of decisions of the indi- In June 2001 the Government decided, inter vidual planning authorities that are appealed to alia, that the Department of Finance and individ- An Bord Pleana´la. It is intended on foot of this ual Departments and offices should compile and study to develop a system of performance indi- agree a work plan of review topics based on spec- cators for planning authorities in 2005 in consul- ific selection criteria such as programmes selected tation with the relevant sub-committee of the for review should reflect Government priorities City and County Manager’s Association, with or strategic result areas, involve significant levels which regular meetings are held, to address the of expenditure, etc. Subsequently, in May 2002, concerns outlined in the report. the Government approved a schedule of expendi- ture review themes proposed for the first year of Question No. 565 answered with Question the next three year planning horizon (2002-04), No. 558. and noted the themes proposed for 2003 and 2004. In April 2003, the expenditure review cen- Rented Dwellings Register. tral steering committee asked Departments and 566. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Envir- offices to update their expenditure review plans, onment, Heritage and Local Government the again in consultation with the Department of Fin- number of properties registered with each local ance. The committee emphasised the Govern- authority for private renting; and if he has satis- ment’s selection criteria and advised that Depart- fied himself that his Department monitors this ments and offices should select a small number of correctly. [17613/04] programmes/areas involving major policy issues or significant levels of expenditure. On foot of Minister of State at the Department of the this process, revised expenditure review plans Environment, Heritage and Local Government were drawn up by Departments and offices. (Mr. N. Ahern): Information relating to regis- Overall, nine expenditure reviews of my trations of houses and landlords under the Hous- Department’s programmes have been completed ing (Registration of Rented Houses) Regulations to date. In addition, the major infrastructure pro- 1996, based on returns from local authorities, is grammes with which my Department is con- contained in the quarterly and annual housing cerned have been evaluated as part of the mid- statistics bulletins published by my Department. term review of different operational programmes The most recent information is contained in the under the current community support framework 2003 annual housing statistics bulletin, which indi- and national development plan. Taking account cated that an overall total of 26,982 units were of this, I am satisfied that the substantive spend- registered by 17,445 landlords with local auth- ing programmes which come within my Depart- orities on 31 December 2003. My Department ment’s remit have been reviewed since the incep- considers these registration figures to be accurate tion of the expenditure review initiative. as they are extracted from the registers that local 629 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 630 authorities are statutorily required to maintain Dooncarton which is scheduled to meet again at and they relate only to registered units where the the end of June. registration fee has been paid up to date. Mayo County Council has informed my When the Residential Tenancies Bill 2003, cur- Department that a full review of the current rently before Da´il E´ ireann, is enacted, the 1996 status of the hillside is being carried out, includ- registration regulations will be repealed and land- ing an assessment of the protection works, ditches lords will be required to register details of their and berms which have already been reinstated or tenancies with the private residential tenancies constructed by the county council and the Office board. This board will proactively pursue com- of Public Works. Based on this review the pliance. One way in which unregistered accom- detailed design of fencing will be carried out and modation will come to the attention of the board the issue of further resources required, if any, will will be if the tenants refer disputes pertaining to be addressed. Mayo County Council is holding such tenancies to the board. Unlike tenants, land- regular liaison meetings with the Dooncarton lords must be registered in order to avail of the landslide committee and there has being excellent board’s dispute resolution service. A double fee co-operation on the ground between the local will apply to late registrations and penalties for committee and staff of Mayo County Council and convictions for non-registration are being the Office of Public Works. Reinstatement and increased. protection works are proceeding in consultation with the committee with expenditure of just over \ Decentralisation Programme. 1 million to date. Restoration work for the graveyard including replacement and refur- 567. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the bishment of headstones is also about to com- Environment, Heritage and Local Government if mence with funding provided by Mayo County he will answer Parliamentary Question No. 267 Council and the Department of Community, of 2 June 2004 in respect of the annual report of Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. his Department dealing with the risks of decen- tralisation. [17760/04] Proposed Legislation. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and 569. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Local Government (Mr. Cullen): My Depart- Environment, Heritage and Local Government ment’s decentralisation implementation plan has when the provisions of the Residential Tenancies been submitted to the decentralisation implemen- Bill 2003 for anti-social behaviour by tenants will tation group and includes an initial assessment of be brought into force; the person who will be the risks and risk mitigation strategies relating to responsible for enforcing this law; and if he will the decentralisation programme. Progress by my make a statement on the matter. [17762/04] Department in implementing decentralisation Minister of State at the Department of the will be reported on as appropriate in future Environment, Heritage and Local Government annual reports. (Mr. N. Ahern): While it may be appropriate to commence some provisions of the Residential Mayo Landslides. Tenancies Bill earlier than others for practical 568. Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the reasons, I intend that provisions of the Bill will Environment, Heritage and Local Government be brought into force as soon as possible after when the necessary funding will be provided to enactment. the people of the Dooncarton landslide area, Landlords are, in the first instance, responsible County Mayo, in order that barriers can be for enforcing the obligations that apply to their erected immediately; and if he will make a state- tenants. Anti-social behaviour will be grounds for ment on the matter. [17761/04] termination of the tenancy by the landlord and serious anti-social behaviour will entitle the land- Minister for the Environment, Heritage and lord to terminate the tenancy with only seven Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I refer to the days’ notice, regardless of the duration of the ten- reply to Questions Nos. 800, 801 and 833 of 27 ancy. The notice period will be 28 days in the case April 2004 which outlined funding provided to of less serious, but persistent, behaviour where Mayo County Council for necessary restoration the tenant has been advised of the breach of his and protection work following the Dooncarton or her tenancy obligations and failed to remedy landslide. the behaviour within the time specified by the An implementation working group has been landlord. set up by Mayo County Council with representa- If the tenant fails to vacate the dwelling on foot tives from my Department, the Department of of the ensuing notice of termination, the landlord Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs; the may refer a dispute to the private residential ten- Office of Public Works and Mayo County Coun- ancies board. The Bill also gives third parties who cil. The group is chaired by the director of ser- are affected by anti-social behaviour a right to vices for Mayo west region, Mayo County Coun- take a case to the private residential tenancies cil, and has met on two occasions, 22 April 2004 board against a landlord who, having been and 26 May 2004. This group is reviewing all advised of the problem, failed to enforce the ten- aspects of protection and restoration works in ancy obligations of the tenant for such behaviour. 631 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 632

[Mr. N. Ahern.] Minister for the Environment, Heritage and The board after hearing a dispute relating to anti- Local Government (Mr. Cullen): A number of social behaviour will issue a determination order different processes are involved in appointments regarding the matter and, if its order is not com- to bodies under the aegis of my Department. In plied with, it will, at the request of an affected some cases statutory selection procedures must party, apply to the Circuit Court for an enforce- be followed or nominations must be sought from ment order. independent nominating panels before appoint- ments are made by the Government or by the Appointments to State Boards. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and 570. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Envir- Local Government. In other cases, only particular onment, Heritage and Local Government the public office holders may be appointed to certain appointments that have been made to State boards or there is discretion to vary the numbers boards and bodies within his Department from 1 appointed. In a number of situations, only some January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons appointments to the body concerned are made by appointed; and the persons they are replacing. the Minister. Subject to the above, the details [17804/04] sought are listed in the following table.

Name of Body Person Appointed (include name) Replacing (name of previous since 1 Jan 03 to 15 June 04 incumbent)

Irish Water Safety Kevin Ring Martin Condon

Dublin Docklands Development Authority Liam Whelan Pat Macken Emer Costello Joe Costello

Designated Areas Appeals Board Sean Duignan Michael Mills Housing Finance Agency Maria Graham Tom Corcoran Aine Stapleton Brenda McVeigh

Rent Tribunal Mr. Fred Devlin Mr. Pat Riney *Ms. Moya Quinlan *Ms. Mary Doyle *Ms. Louise Moloney *Mr. Joe McPeake *Mr. Kieran Buckley *Ms. Morette Kinsella *Mr. John Leddin *Mr. William Stanbridge (*All re- appointed)

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland Professor Kieran R. Byrne Ms. Mary A. Coffey

Fire Services Council Mr. Donal Connolly Mr. Donal Connolly Cllr. Mary Bohan Cllr. Mary Bohan Mr. Stephen Brady Mr. Stephen Brady Ms. Anne Costello Ms. Anne Costello Mr. Frank Dennison Mr. Frank Dennison Mr. John L’Estrange Mr. John L’Estrange Mr. Teddy O’Connor Mr. Teddy O’Connor Ms. Theresa White Ms. Theresa White Mr. Tony Gleeson Mr. Michael Fitzsimons Ms. Attracta McKay Ms. Fiona Holland Cllr. Enda Nolan Ms. Mary Wheatley Mr. Jim Byrne Ms. Teresa Casserly Mr. Michael Cassidy Ms. Bernie Doherty Mr. John Fitzsimons Mr. Michael Forrest Mr. Gerard Guerin Mr. Martin Lawton Mr. Con Murphy Ms. Noreen Dunne

Local Government Computer Services Mr. T. Dowling Mr. T. Dowling Board Mr. D. Nelson Mr. D. Nelson Mr. S. Carey Mr. S. Carey Mr. J. Tiernan Mr. J. Tiernan Mr. A. Fleming Mr. A. Fleming Mr. H. Kearns Mr. E. Sheehy Mr. J. Crockett Ms. A. McGuiness Mr. M. Riordan Mr. D. Connolly Mr. F. Bradley Mr. F. Bradley Mr. J. Fitzgerald Mr. J. Fitzgerald Mr. P. Tyrell

Heritage Council Ms. Deirdre Ellis-King Ms. Bride Rosney Mr. Eamon McEneaney Ms. Clare O’Grady Walsh 633 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 634

Name of Body Person Appointed (include name) Replacing (name of previous since 1 Jan 03 to 15 June 04 incumbent)

Local Government Management Services Mr. Kevin Cullen Mr. Tony Boland Board Mr. Aidan Kinch Mr. Danny McElhinney Mr. Jim Lillis Mr. Jim Lillis

Environmental Protection Agency *Mr. Gerry Carthy Mr. Ian MacLean *Mr. Larry Stapleton (*Appointments made Ms. Anne Butler by Government on foot of nomination by statutory selection committee)

Comhair Mr. Christine Croton Ms. Liz Cullen

Local Government Elections. and when approval and funding for this scheme are likely to be granted. [17892/04] 571. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Minister for the Environment, Heritage and he will make it compulsory for county registrars Local Government (Mr. Cullen): The Kilbeggan to notify candidates for local elections in writing sewerage scheme is included in my Department’s at least seven working days prior to these elec- water services investment programme 2004-2006 tions that the names of persons to act as person- as a scheme to enter planning at an estimated cost ation agents should be with the county registrar of \1 million. My Department is awaiting the sub- not less than two days before the elections. mission of a design brief for the scheme by [17889/04] Westmeath County Council. Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen): Under the Local Authority Staff. Local Elections Regulations 1995, a candidate at 575. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the a local election shall, not later than two days, dis- Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding any excluded day, before polling day, the exact position on the recruitment of clerical give written notice to the returning officer of the staff by local authorities in respect of qualifi- name and address of every personation agent cations; the reason a leaving certificate is required appointed by the candidate together with the in the case of a person with a primary degree; his name of the polling station for which the person- views on whether this requirement discriminates ation agent is appointed. While I am satisfied that against persons who avail of second chance edu- these long-standing arrangements operate effec- cation opportunities; and if he will review this tively, I will keep them under review. policy. [17923/04] Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Question No. 572 answered with Question Local Government (Mr. Cullen): The current No. 547. educational qualifications declared for the post of clerical officer in a local authority require a candi- Water and Sewerage Schemes. date to have obtained at least grade D (or a pass), 573. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the in higher or ordinary level, in five subjects from Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the approved list of subjects in the Department a request has been submitted from Westmeath of Education and Science established leaving cer- County Council for funding to provide a water tificate examination or leaving certificate pipeline from the western end of Moate, County vocational programme, or have passed an exam- Westmeath, to the reservoir at the eastern end of ination of equivalent standard. The holder of a the town; when this application was received; the primary degree who is not the holder of a leaving estimated cost of the project; and when funding certificate would be regarded as satisfying the will be made available for this scheme. educational qualifications for clerical officer [17891/04] posts. Persons who do not satisfy the educational Minister for the Environment, Heritage and requirements are eligible to compete for clerical Local Government (Mr. Cullen): I refer to the officer posts provided they have had at least two reply to Parliamentary Question No. 198 of 3 year’s previous service as a clerical officer or June 2004. clerk typist under a local authority, or heath 574. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the board in the State, or have satisfactory relevant Environment, Heritage and Local Government if experience which encompasses demonstrable an application has been received from Westme- equivalent skills. ath County Council for funding to upgrade the Inland Waterways. sewerage plant at Kilbeggan, County Westmeath; the date of this application; the estimated cost; 576. Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Com- 635 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 636

[Mr. Penrose.] Cla´rDı´la´rnaithe. munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will 578. D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gno´ - take steps to have the bridge over the Royal thaı´ Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad e´ an dul Canal at Baltrasna, Mullingar, widened in order chun cinn ata´ de´anta maidir le dı´la´rnu´ Fhoras na to enable farm machinery to gain access to farms Gaeilge go Gaoth Dobhair. [17302/04] along the route; and if he will make a statement Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht on the matter. [17903/04] Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): Mar is eol don Teachta, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht ta´ dul chun cinn i nda´il leis an dı´la´ru´ ata´ beartai- Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): The issue raised by the the d’fhoireann Fhoras na Gaeilge go Gaoth Deputy, concerning the bridge over the Royal Dobhair, Contae Dhu´ n na nGall, ag brath ar, Canal at Baltrasna, Mullingar, County Westme- agus ag fanacht ar, chomhaontu´ na Comhairle ath, is the day-to-day responsibility of Waterways Aireachta Thuaidh/Theas. Ireland, a North/South implementation body for Chas me´ leis an Aire, Angela Smith, MP, a inland waterways, set up under the British-Irish bhfuil comhfhreagracht uirthi i nda´il leis An Agreement 1999. Foras Teanga, ar 12 Bealtaine 2004. Ple´adh ceist an dı´la´raithe i measc a´bhar eile agus aontaı´odh Waterways Ireland informs me that it is not gur cho´ ir don da´ Roinn, i gcomhairle le Foras na common practice for them to widen such bridges. Gaeilge, an pro´ iseas measu´ naithe ata´ idir la´mha However, should Westmeath County Council, faoin gceist seo a thabhairt chun cinn. who currently maintain the approach roads and the surface over the bridge, deem it necessary to Community Development. upgrade the bridge structure, Waterways Ireland 579. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for would facilitate them, subject to the necessary fin- Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the pro- ance being in place and the design option being jects in County Westmeath which were funded approved by it. under the CLA´ R programme; and the grant aid for each of these projects. [17326/04] Voluntary Activity. Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht 577. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): When I launched the Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he CLA´ R programme in October 2001, six Westme- will consider putting in place a policy on volun- ath DEDs were included. This increased to 18 in teering, including a national infrastructure for January 2003 following the analysis of the 2002 volunteers as set out in correspondence (details population census data in line with the commit- supplied). [17200/04] ment in the agreed programme for Government. From 2002 to date, CLA´ R funding of \243,887 Minister of State at the Department of Com- been approved under various measures of CLA´ R munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. in County Westmeath. The following tables detail Ahern): I refer the Deputy to my replies to Par- the CLA´ R funding allocated from 2002 to date in liamentary Questions Nos. 12 20, 26 and 34 of 3 2004. Full details of the co-funding arrangements June 2004. and actual expenditure are listed in the appendix.

Measure Approved CLA´ R Approved CLA´ R Approved CLA´ R Funding 2002 Funding 2003 Funding 2004

\\\ Non-National Strategic Road co-funded with DOEHLG 20,000 20,000 N/A Class 11 and 111 Roads co-funded with DOEHLG N/A N/A 28,302 Class 111 Local Roads (Fully funded by CLA´ R) 70,000 N/A N/A Flashing Amber Safety Lights at Schools N/A 10,000 N/A LIS Roads 14,121 N/A N/A Village Enhancement Scheme 20,000 20,000 20,000 Local Authority Estate Enhancement Scheme (2003 and N/A 7,232 7,232 2004) Sports Capital Grants Top-up Funding N/A 7,000 N/A

Total 124,121 64,232 55,534 637 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 638

Appendix — County Westmeath: Co-funding with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for Strategic Non-National Roads 2002

Road Number Road Description Length of Section CLA´ R Expenditure From To kms \

LS 5763 / LS 5762 Castlepollard to Oldcastle at Sheskernagh 0.4 5,584 LS5470 Creggan Athlone 0.12 2,000 LS5472 Creggan Athlone 0.2 8,000

Total *15,584 * Matched equally by DOEHLG

2003

Road Number Road Description Length of Section CLA´ R Expenditure From To kms \

LP1218 Junction with R392 at Skeaghbeg towards 2.7 17,709 Loughnavalley

Total *17,709 * Matched equally by DOEHLG Measure not operating in 2004

Co-funding with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for Class 11 and Class 111 Local Roads 2004

Road Number DED Location of Scheme Length of Approved CLA´ R Scheme (m) Funding 2004

\ LS5769 Knockarrow Start at LS5769/R394 junction and 1km to 800 13,300 Castletown Church LS5238 Jamestown Carn, Kildare 1,500 15,000

Total *28,300 * Matched equally by DOEHLG

Class 111 Roads Fully Funded by CLA´ R 2002

Road Number DED CLA´ R Funding

\ LT17712 Finnea 6,000 LT17715 Finnea 19,948 LT57632 Hilltown 6,500 LT58291 Lismacaffrey 13,098 LT57681 Finea 9,789 LT17717 Finnea 5,000

Total 60,335 No Class 111 roads selected by Westmeath County Council for funding in 2003 639 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 640

Flashing Safety Lights at Schools Fully Funded by CLA´ R 2003

School Name DED Actual Cost

\ Moyvore National School Templepatrick 3,750

Total 3,750

Local Improvement Scheme Roads 2002

Road Name/Number Name of Applicant DED Actual Cost * CLA´ R Funding

\\ Off L5469 Michael McArdle Muckanagh 19,940 14,121

Total 14,121 *Includes local contribution No applications for LIS funding received from Westmeath County Council in 2003 or 2004

Village Enhancement Scheme 2002

Village DED Enhancement Works Total Cost CLA´ R Expenditure @ 1/3

\\ Lismacaffrey Boherquill Public lights columns 3,892 Widening Footpaths 7,200 Boherquill Boherquill Black Top to Church Car Park 7,214 Drainage work to Cemetery Car Park 3,500 Sub-base and surface dressing to Cemetery 8,194

Total 30,000 * 10,000 *Funded equally three ways by CLA´ R, Local Authority and LEADER Group/Local Community

2003

Village DED Enhancement Works Total Cost CLA´ R Expenditure @ 1/3

\\ Killare Killare Provision of new public light and upgrading of existing public lights 1,420 Boher Killare Surface dressed car park off church and erection of village signs 1,672 Ballinalack Rathowen Supply and install bench landscaping 1,956 Moyvore Templepatrick Installation of 6 no. public lights and civil works and commission of same by ESB 6,358 Finnea Finnea Repairs to monument and paving 4,343 Street Street New footpath 19,753 Boherquill Boherquill 6 lights to cemetery 11,389 Empor Empor Supply and install 2 no. lights direct labour mach. Stores hire plant materials 10,283 Rathowen Rathowen Supply and install 5 no. fingerpost signs and 1 no. bench landscaping

Total 58,774 * 19,591 *Funded equally three ways by CLA´ R, Local Authority and LEADER Group/Local Community 2004 Total Allocation \60,000. To be funded equally three ways by CLA´ R, Local Authority and LEADER Group/Local Community 641 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 642

Local Authority Housing Estate Enhancement Scheme 2004

Estate DED Nature of Enhancement Total CLA´ R Funding Cost @ 47.5%

\ Rathowen Housing Estate Rathowen Paving, Fencing, Kerbing Footpaths 15,186 7,213 Finnea Housing Estate Finnea Handstand Play area, Landscaping 14,164 6,728

Total 29,350 13,941 Total Allocation for 2003 and 2004 = \30,450. Funding: CLA´ R 47.5%, Local Authority 47.5% and Community 5%

Sports Capital Top-up Grants 2003

Club DED Approved CLA´ R Top up funding (20%)

\ Street Parish Park Committee Street 7,000 No top-up applicable in 2002 or 2004

Dormant Accounts Fund. ing shall be allocated annually to such areas. In 580. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for addition, the plan provides that at least half of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his the allocation for the purposes of educational dis- attention has been drawn to an application advantage will go towards programmes or pro- (details supplied) in connection with a dormant jects within RAPID and drugs task force areas. accounts fund and if, in view of the importance Under the current round of funding, therefore, of this application for the extension of proper projects which are not in RAPID, CLA´ Ror child care facilities in this area, he will make an drugs task force areas can qualify for assistance urgent decision on the matter. [17379/04] in respect of projects targeting educational disad- vantage and persons with a disability. An appli- 581. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for cation from the group referred to by the Deputy Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if pro- has been received by Area Development Man- jects which are not in a CLA´ R or RAPID area agement Limited. All applications received will can qualify for support from the dormant be evaluated by it against the criteria set out in accounts fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17433/04] the published guidelines and recommendations made to the dormant accounts board for decision. Minister of State at the Department of Com- The group concerned will be advised of the out- munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. come in due course. Ahern): I propose to take Questions Nos. 580 and 581 together. Community Development. Decisions on the disbursement of dormant accounts funds are currently a matter for the Dor- 582. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Com- mant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board, an munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will independent body established under the Dormant provide funding for a road in County Mayo from Accounts Acts. The board has engaged Area the CLA´ R programme. [17492/04] Development Management Limited to administer Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht the initial round of funding on its behalf which ´ ´ ´ \ Affairs (Eamon O Cuı´v): Under the CLAR pro- will involve the disbursement of up to 30 million gramme, my Department co-funds, with the from the fund to assist programmes or projects Department of the Environment, Heritage and targeting three broad categories of persons, those Local Government, the improvement of class affected by economic and social disadvantage, 111 roads. those affected by educational disadvantage and persons with a disability. The roads proposed for such funding are selec- The board’s disbursement plan, published in ted by the county councils and approved for ´ late 2003, provides that at least 40% of total CLAR funding subject to the criteria for the annual funding will be allocated to the area of measure being met. economic and social disadvantage and at least I have had enquires made about the road in 25% to each of the other two categories. Over question which is a class 111 road. I understand the first year, funding allocated for economic and that major re-construction work is required social disadvantage will wholly be allocated to involving significant funding. This road was not RAPID, CLA´ R or drugs task force areas and in proposed by the county council for CLA´ R fund- subsequent years, not less then 50% of this fund- ing this year. 643 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 644

Electronic Communications. expenditure of his Department in respect of which an expenditure review under the expendi- 583. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Com- ture review initiative has not yet been completed munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if all public services provided by his Department that are cap- and published. [17598/04] able of electronic delivery are available elec- Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht tronically through a single point of contact, as was Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): I propose to take Ques- promised in the joint programme; and if not, if he tions Nos. 584 and 585 together. will make a statement or explanation in respect As the Deputy is aware, the Department of of each service not yet so provided. [17568/04] Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs was Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht established 2002, bringing together a range of Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): Application forms for functions previously held by six different Govern- all grant schemes administered by my Depart- ment Departments. ment are currently available on-line via my While the initial target of the expenditure Departments website www.pobail.ie. The pro- review initiative was to cover all expenditure pro- vision of better quality of service and greater grammes over a three year period, I understand access to the Department for the customer is one that a review of the process by the Department of the key tenets of my Department’s recently of Finance/expenditure review central steering completed ICT strategy plan. The plans includes committee in 2000-01 found that this target had provision for on-line application facilities for been over-ambitious. In June 2001 the Govern- Gaeltacht and community grants. ment decided that the Department of Finance The electronic delivery of services through a and individual Departments/offices should com- single point of contact is being progressed pile and agree a work plan of review topics based through the framework of the public services on specific selection criteria (i.e. Government broker. The Reach agency is charged with priorities, strategic result areas, significant levels responsibility for its design and development. of expenditure, etc.). I understand that it is intended to launch the In May 2002, the Government approved a first stage of the public services broker at the end schedule of expenditure review topics for the of this month. This will be a public facing website, three-year planning horizon (2002-04). Sub- to be known as reachservices.ie, designed to act sequently, in April 2003 the expenditure review as a single point of access to a range of services central steering committee asked Departments to offered by the Irish public service. Initially reach- update their expenditure review plans, in consul- services.ie will provide access through links to tation with the Department of Finance, placing forms or other on-line services provided on other the emphasis on a small number of websites including application forms on my programmes/areas involving major policy issues Department’s website. or significant levels of expenditure. Among the other facilities that Reach is My Department is progressing with the pro- developing is the capability for developing and gramme of reviews agreed with the expenditure hosting on-line interactive forms, which will be review central steering committee. In line with made available to Departments and agencies that the agreed programme, reviews of sce´imanna are developing on-line services for their cus- feabhsu´ cha´in sa Ghaeltacht and the local drugs tomers and I understand that this service will be task forces are on-going and scheduled for com- available in the autumn. pletion later this year. A further two reviews are My Department is currently in the process of envisaged for na hoilea´in and ciste na gaeilge in developing a comprehensive IT system for the 2005 and my Department will continue to liaise administration of Gaeltacht grants, which will be with the expenditure review central steering com- completed by August this year. It is intended that mittee in relation to the future development of when this system has bedded down within the the review programme. Department, the extension of the system to I also wish to advise the Deputy that a number include the provision of an on-line interactive ser- of reviews of areas now under the remit of my vice with Reach will be pursued. Department were carried out under the aegis of the former Department of Arts, Heritage, Gael- Expenditure Reviews tacht and the Islands. These were as follows: 584. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Com- review of canal expenditure — completed in Nov- munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his ember 1998; review of deontais faoi Achtanna na Department has achieved the target, set out in dTithe (Gaeltacht) 1929-1979 — completed in the initiation of the expenditure review initiative November 1998; and review of U´ dara´s na Gael- in 1997, that all Government expenditure be sub- tachta — completed in October 2000. ject to a formal review under that initiative every three years; and if not, the areas of expenditure Offshore Islands. in respect of which the three yearly review has 586. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Com- not taken place. [17583/04] munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position 585. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Com- in regard to proposals, contained in the joint pro- munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the areas of gramme, for a subsidised cargo service to islands 645 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 646 offshore; and the islands which will be so subsi- Communications, Marine and Natural Resources dised. [17600/04] or by the relevant local authority. Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Helvick pier has been identified as a strategic Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): As the Deputy is aware, Gaeltacht pier under this programme. However, there is a commitment in An Agreed Programme it is estimated that the development of the pier for Government to identify proposals to provide would cost in excess of \4million, which would a subsidised cargo service to islands in consul- be outside the scope and scale of development tation with island communities and ferry normally envisaged under the programme. My operators. Department has, however, had discussions with At the moment, my Department subsidises the the Department of Communications, Marine and provision of cargo ferry services to the three Aran Natural Resources regarding this project. Should islands off the County Galway coast and to Cape that Department be in a position to allocate fund- Clear Island, County Cork. In addition, subsidies ing to this project in the future, my Department are also provided for roll on/roll off services cap- would be open to considering the question of able of serving the cargo requirements of Arran- co-funding. more Island, County Donegal, and Bere Island, County Cork. Last year, consultants were commissioned by Social Welfare Benefits. my Department to carry out a review of subsi- 588. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Mini- dised transport services to a number of islands. ster for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs The islands included were Tory, Inishturk, Clare the qualification criteria for the rural social Island, Inis Mo´ r, Inis Mea´in, Inis Oı´rr, Inishboffin scheme; if it is open to individuals currently on or and Cape Clear. This report, which was com- ´ pleted earlier this year and is available on my shortly leaving a FAS scheme; and if he will make Department’s website at www.pobail.ie, contains a statement on the matter. [17788/04] a recommendation that, in the event that additional funding becomes available for the pro- Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht ´ ´ vision of ferry services to the islands, consider- Affairs (Eamon O Cuı´v): To be eligible to partici- ation should be given to providing a monthly pate on the rural social scheme, an individual freight service to the remainder of the islands must be in receipt of farm assist or have a herd which were the subject of the report. The consult- number and be in receipt of one of the following ants also estimated that the annual cost of such a long-term social welfare payments: unemploy- service would be in the order of \250,000. ment assistance, unemployment benefit, if pre- The issue of extended freight services to the viously on CE, or disability allowance. islands will be kept under constant review having Persons who are currently on the FA´ S com- regard to the funding available for the provision munity employment scheme who meet the above of transport services to the islands and the com- criteria are eligible to apply for the rural social peting demands on that funding. scheme. Harbours and Piers. Those applying for the rural social scheme will do so under the same conditions as other appli- 587. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Com- cants and will have to avail of their option to munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs further to transfer by a specified date. Parliamentary Question No. 334 of 30 March 2004, in particular to the last paragraph of his reply to same (details supplied), the proposals he Question No. 589 resubmitted. has to finance urgent repairs to the pier at Hel- vick, County Waterford; and if he will make a Appointments to State Boards. statement on the matter. [17682/04] 590. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Com- Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the appoint- ´ ´ Affairs (Eamon O Cuı´v): I wish to state at the ments that have been made to State boards and outset that the question referred to by the Deputy bodies within his Department from 1 January was addressed to the Minister of Communi- 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons appointed; and cations, Marine and Natural Resources, who the persons they are replacing. [17805/04] replied to same on 30 March 2004. Under the national development plan a seven- Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht year programme has been put in place by my Affairs (E´ amon O´ Cuı´v): In response to the Department to develop strategic Gaeltacht piers Deputy’s query, I wish to confirm that the follow- in consultation with the Department of ing appointments have been made to State boards Communications, Marine and Natural Resource and/or the relevant local authorities. My Depart- and bodies within my Department from 1 January ment may make grants of up to 100% available 2003 to 15 June 2004. These details and the names under the programme, while the works in ques- of the persons they replaced where appropriate tion are undertaken by the Department of are set out in the following appendix. 647 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 648

Appendix

National Drugs Strategy Team (NDST)

Member Date of Appointment Person replaced

Padraic White, Chairperson Feb 2004 Ray Henry

Western Development Commission (WDC)

Member Date of Appointment Person replaced

Billy Grimes 24/06/2003 Frank O’Donnell

An Coimisiu´ n Logainmneacha

Membership Date of Appointment Person replaced*

Seosamh O´ Braona´in (Cathaoirleach) 03/06/2003 Dr Nollaig O´ Muraile 03/06/2003 An tOllamh Pa´draig O´ Riain 03/06/2003 Marcus O´ Floinn 03/06/2003 Dr Rı´onach Uı´ O´ ga´in 03/06/2003 An tOllamh Ma´irı´nNı´ Dhonnchadha 03/06/2003 Liam Mac Con Iomaire 03/06/2003 Dr Edel Breathnach 03/06/2003 Tom Crowley 03/06/2003 Ma´ire Nı´ Chiarba 03/06/2003 Dr U´ na Uı´ Bheirn 03/06/2003 Prionnsias de Priondarga´st 03/06/2003 *The previous Coimisiu´ n Logainmneacha was dissolved and a new Coimisiu´ n Logainmneacha was appointed on 03/06/2003

Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board

Member Date of Appointment Person replaced

David Brennan 10/10/2003 Deirdre Carroll

Ulster Scots Agency

Member Date of Appointment Person replaced

Dr. Ian Adamson 04/09/2003 Additional appointment

Commissioners for Charitable Donations and Bequests

Member Date of Appointment Person replaced

Peter Mullock 1/07/2003 C. Garret Walker Appointments are made by Government.

The Rural/Agri-Tourism Advisory Group (Established February 2003)

Membership Date of Appointment Person replaced

Tom Allen Feb 2003 Michael Bergin Feb 2003 Jim Finn Feb 2003 649 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 650

Membership Date of Appointment Person replaced

Siobha´n Greene Feb 2003 Donal Guilfoyle Feb 2003 Vincent Gorman Feb 2003 Maurice Harvey Feb 2003 Marie Heneghan Feb 2003 Dermot Hurst Feb 2003 Tom O’Donnell June 2003 Michael Ludlow Joss Lynam Feb 2003 Cormac MacDonnell Feb 2003 Baz Millar Feb 2003 Pat Moynan Feb 2003 Michea´lO´ Corcora Feb 2003 Fionn O´ Gra´da Feb 2003 Una O’Neill, Frank d’Arcy June 2003 Christine O’Shea Joe Palmer Feb 2003 Breda Raggett Feb 2003 Donal Coleman June 2003 Dermot Ryan Frank d’Arcy Jan 2004 Additional appointment

The Consultation Group on Access to Waymarked Ways established in May 2003 (Now Comhairle na Tuaithe, since February 2004)

Membership Date of Appointment Person replaced

Bill Murphy May 2003 Micheal Manning Jan 2004 Frank Donaldson Paddy O’Mahony Feb 2004 Brian Geraghty Beatrice Kelly May 2003 Maurice Harvey May 2003 Michael Comiskey May 2004 Con Hickey Cormac MacDonnell May 2003 Mary Tubridy Oct 2003 Adrian Phillips, R.I.P. Roger Garland May 2003 Joss Lynam May 2003 Jim McDonald May 2003 Malcolm Thompson May 2004 Brian Kehoe May 2004

Arramara Teo.

Directors Date of Re-appointment*

Tom Hyland 6/10/2003 Risteard Mac Donnacha 6/10/2003 Marie Tinney 6/10/2003 *Following transfer of functions from the Department of Communications Marine and Natural Resources to my Department. Security of the Elderly. people. The scheme provides grant aid to volun- 591. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Com- tary groups and organisations which have under- munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when a bur- taken to identify older people in need of such glar alarm grant will be approved for a person assistance in their localities. (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will Under the terms of the scheme, grant aid is make a statement on the matter. [17838/04] available towards the once-off costs of purchase and/or installation of small-scale physical security Minister of State at the Department of Com- equipment and socially monitored alarm systems. munity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. There is no funding available towards the cost of Ahern): The purpose of the scheme of com- conventional burglar/intruder alarms under this munity support for older people is to improve the scheme. security and social support of vulnerable older 651 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 652

[Mr. N. Ahern.] persons; and if she will make a statement on the Arrangements for the 2004 scheme are in prep- matter. [17162/04] aration and it is intended that the scheme will be Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary advertised in the local and national papers in the Coughlan): The objective of rent supplement is coming month. to provide assistance to eligible people residing in I attach for the Deputy’s information a list of private rented accommodation whose means are organisations funded under the scheme in the insufficient to meet their accommodation needs Kerry region in 2003. In order to be included for and who do not have accommodation available to assistance under the 2004 scheme the person in them from any other source. A rent supplement question may wish to contact one of these organ- is a short-term income maintenance support and isations. is not intended to address a person’s long term accommodation needs. Departmental Programmes. The regulations governing the payment of rent 592. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and supplement stipulate that, in general, rent sup- Family Affairs the way in which her Department plement is not paid to people who vacate local expects persons to supply food to children under authority accommodation. These regulations the school meals programme; the figures for this were in place prior to the introduction of the new scheme; if a more realistic payment will be made measures earlier this year. to the meal providers; and if she will make a The new measures do not restrict the discretion statement on the matter. [17158/04] available to health boards to deal with excep- tional cases. In this regard a health board may Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary provide assistance where, in the opinion of the Coughlan): The school meals programme pro- board, the circumstances of the particular case so vides funding for the urban school meals scheme, warrant. The South Western Area Health Board which operates in conjunction with certain local was contacted regarding this case and has advised authorities, as well as for a number of locally that the person concerned made an enquiry about operated school meals projects that are in place rent supplement at his local health centre. He was in both urban and rural areas. advised that he would not qualify for rent sup- In the case of local projects, funding is pro- plement if he vacated local authority accom- vided for food only and is based on a rate per modation. meal per child. The type and range of meals pro- In the opinion of the board the circumstances vided as well as the method and logistics of sup- of the case do not warrant payment of rent sup- plying the meals are decided by the local groups plement as an exceptional measure. The person that design and run the projects. concerned has been advised as to the most appro- The amount of funding allocated to a project priate way to deal with his situation and that, if depends on the type and number of meals pro- he is unhappy with his present accommodation, it vided. The current rates of funding for the var- is open to him to request a transfer to alternative ious meal types are as follows: breakfast \0.55, local authority accommodation. \ \ light meal 1.20, and dinner 1.70. These rates 594. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and are reviewed each year. The review has regard to Family Affairs her views on the action a person information supplied by project sponsors, who (details supplied) in County Kildare should take are required to submit financial accounts at the when her Department refuses to pay their rent end of each school year. \ subsidy and the person is not in a position to fin- In 2003, 3.29 million was spent on the school ance the rent or to seek alternative accommo- meals programme. Some 382 schools with a total dation with family or friends; and if she will make of over 50,650 pupils benefited from the urban a statement on the matter. [17207/04] scheme while 347 schools and voluntary organis- ations received funding which benefited some Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary 26,000 children under local school meals projects. Coughlan): In my reply to the Deputy on 18th \ Budget 2004 provided 6.08million for the May 2004, I advised that the South Western Area programme. Health Board was awaiting the outcome of an I am satisfied that the programme makes an assessment, to be undertaken by the local housing important contribution to the well-being of the authority, of the housing needs of the person children involved and my Department is working concerned. with the Department of Education and Science to The board has advised that the local housing ensure that the scheme is targeted at the schools authority has completed its assessment and and areas in greatest need. informed the board that the person concerned is not considered to be in need of housing as she Social Welfare Benefits. has the option of living in the family home. In the circumstances she does not satisfy the 593. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and conditions for the receipt of rent supplement Family Affairs the position regarding persons under the supplementary welfare allowance (details supplied) in County Kildare seeking rent scheme. subsidy allowance as determined under the new guidelines set down by her Department; if there 595. Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Social is a position in regard to emergency cases deter- and Family Affairs when a decision will be made mined by the legislation as is applicable to these on an application for the carer’s allowance sub- 653 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 654 mitted to her Department by a person (details cies, including my own Department. The outcome supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make of this group will inform future policy in this area. a statement on the matter. [17279/04] 597. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary and Family Affairs her proposals to increase the Coughlan): The application for carer’s allowance child benefit allowance to help parents pay for from the person concerned is currently with an child care costs; and if she will make a statement investigative officer of my Department for a on the matter. [17426/04] means assessment and to establish if the con- ditions necessary for receipt of carer’s allowance Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary are satisfied. In addition, the medical evidence Coughlan): Child benefit delivers a standard rate received with the application form has been sent of payment in respect of all children in a family to my Department’s chief medical advisor for regardless of income levels or employment status. consideration. It supports all children but delivers proportion- On receipt of the investigative officer’s report ately more assistance to those on low incomes and the chief medical advisor’s report, the matter and with larger families. It does not distort par- will be further examined and she will be notified ental choice in respect of labour force partici- directly of the outcome. pation, and ontributes towards alleviating child Under social welfare legislation decisions in poverty. relation to claims must be made by deciding Child benefit is not intended primarily to meet officers and appeals officers. These officers are child care costs. However, the very substantial statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard increases in benefit in recent years can make a to making such decisions. significant contribution to meeting those costs. Budget 2004 provided for a \6 per month 596. Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for increase, or 4.8%, in the rate of child benefit pay- Social and Family Affairs if her attention has able in respect of each of the first two children been drawn to the fact that a person who and \8 per month, or 5.1% increase in the rate becomes acutely ill necessitating a prolonged per- payable in respect of the third and subsequent iod of hospital treatment, is eligible for no finan- children. cial support whatsoever, because the person is Over the period since 1997, the monthly rates deemed to be in full-time care; if an investigation of child benefit have increased by \93.51 at the will be carried out of the non medical expenses lower rate and \115.78 at the higher rate, for a family associated with a period when a fam- increases of 246% and 234% respectively, com- ily member is in long term acute care; and if she pared with inflation of 26.9%. This level of will consider introducing a part-rate disability increase is unprecedented and delivers on the allowance payment to such persons related to the Government’s objective of providing support for cost which a family bears. [17412/04 children generally while offering real choice to all parents. Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary The question of further increases in child bene- Coughlan): A person who becomes ill and fit will be a matter for consideration in a budget- requires a prolonged period of hospital treatment ary context, taking into account stated Govern- may qualify for disability benefit from my ment commitments in this area. Department if they have paid sufficient PRSI contributions. Where a person has not worked or 598. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and has insufficient PRSI contributions, they may Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) qualify for the disability allowance, which is sub- in County Mayo will receive an appeal date for a ject to a means test. hearing in respect of unemployment benefit. In order to qualify for disability allowance a [17483/04] person must have a disability which substantially restricts their capacity to undertake work which Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary would otherwise be suitable for a person of simi- Coughlan): The person concerned applied for lar age, experience and qualifications. Under the unemployment benefit on 13 April 2004. His current arrangements, neither disability benefit claim was disallowed by the deciding officer on nor disability allowance is affected by the residen- the grounds that he was not genuinely seeking tial status of the recipient. Payment of both of employment. these payments can therefore, be made where the The person appealed against this decision to applicant is in hospital for medical treatment or the social welfare appeals office (appeal received is in any other form of residential care, either on on 14th May 2004) and an appeals officer is of a short-term or long-term basis. the opinion that an oral hearing is required. He The feasibility of introducing a payment to will be advised of the date and venue for the meet the additional costs arising from disability is hearing when the necessary arrangements have currently being examined by a working group been made. which has been established under the programme Under social welfare legislation decisions in for prosperity and fairness. This working group, relation to claims must be made by deciding which is being chaired by the Department of officers and appeals officers. These officers are Health and Children, comprises representatives statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard of relevant Government Departments and agen- to making such decisions. 655 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 656

599. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social programme; and if not, if she will make a state- and Family Affairs the reason a person (details ment or explanation in respect of each service not supplied) in County Kildare is not in receipt of yet so provided. [17569/04] the rent subsidy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17507/04] Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan): The electronic delivery of services Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary through a single point of contact is being pro- Coughlan): The South Western Area Health gressed through the framework of the public ser- Board was contacted regarding this case and has vices broker and the REACH agency, which advised that the person concerned was referred reports to my Department. to the local housing authority for an assessment It is intended to launch the first stage of the of her housing needs. The local housing authority public services broker at the end of this month. completed its assessment and informed the Board This website, www.reachservices.ie, is being that the person concerned is not considered to be designed to act as a single point of access to a in need of housing. range of services offered by the Irish public ser- In the circumstances she does not satisfy the vice. Initially it will provide access in the form of conditions for the receipt of rent supplement links to forms or on-line services provided on under the supplementary welfare allowance other websites. The website will provide access to scheme. information and application forms for up to 900 The board has further advised that the person services, including services of the Department of concerned has appealed against the decision to Social and Family Affairs, at time of launch. Ulti- refuse her rent supplement. Her appeal is cur- mately www.reachservices.ie will be expanded rently with the appeals officer in the Eastern until it provides a comprehensive index to the full Regional Health Authority. range of publicly provided services in Ireland. My Department has a substantial programme 600. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Social of work underway to develop and prioritise ser- and Family Affairs the proposed date for intro- vices which will be suitable for early on-line deliv- duction of the all-Ireland free travel scheme ery via the public service broker. Further services promised in the Government joint programme. will be developed in line with REACH develop- [17515/04] ment plans for 2005 and later years. Substantial progress has already been made in Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary exploiting the benefits of e-enablement of ser- Coughlan): Under existing arrangements free tra- vices. An example of this is the inter-agency mes- vel pass holders in Northern Ireland and the saging system, IAMS, between agencies such as Republic can undertake free travel within their the general registrar’s office, GRO, my Depart- own jurisdictions. They can also avail of free ment and the central statistic’s office. One practi- cross-border journeys on bus and rail services. cal effect of this system is the automatic notifi- The programme for Government contains a cation of an electronically-registered birth to my commitment to introduce a system of all-Ireland Department making it possible to change child free travel for pensioners and other eligible social benefit payments without the parents having to welfare customer categories. This would enable repeat basic information, or provide copies of a passholders to make onward journeys free of birth certificate. This has improved the delivery charge in each jurisdiction. of child benefit to customers. Families in receipt I intend to have this scheme in operation of child benefit can now expect to receive notifi- before the end of the current Government’s term cation of increased payment within days of elec- of office. Officials from my Department have tronic registration of the birth of a second or sub- held initial discussions on the all-Ireland free tra- sequent child, without any need to complete an vel scheme with their counterparts in the Depart- application form. ment for Regional Development for Northern The IAMS facility is being further developed Ireland, in the context of regular liaison between to facilitate exchange of business documents and the two organisations in relation to the existing data among a wider range of Departments and cross-border free travel scheme. agencies. There are a number of policy and operational Other key projects include the recently com- issues to be resolved for the proposed new pleted redesign of my Department’s website, scheme, including options for joint funding and www.welfare.ie and the development of proposals the possible use of smartcards. My Department in relation to a framework for public service cards will continue to progress these issues with the based on the personal public service number northern authorities and participating transport which would provide access for customers to a operators, with the intention of finalising con- range of public services. The Department is tracts and funding provisions for the new scheme working with REACH in developing facilities for as soon as possible. registration and authentication of customer ident- ity, address validation, improved on-line appli- Electronic Communications. cation forms and an e-payments facility. 601. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Social I am arranging for more detailed information and Family Affairs if all public services provided to be put together on the range of eGovernment by her Department that are capable of electronic activities being progressed and which my Depart- delivery are available electronically through a sin- ment is involved with and this will be forwarded gle point of contact, as was promised in the joint to the Deputy. 657 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 658

Expenditure Reviews. ined under the ERI process are child benefit and payments to widows and widowers. 602. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Social The aim at the outset of the process was to and Family Affairs if her Department has review all expenditure programmes every three achieved the target, set out in the initiation of the years. However, a review of the process by the expenditure review initiative in 1997, that all central steering committee in 2000-01 found that Government expenditure be subject to a formal this target had been over-ambitious and that a review under that initiative every three years; and more focused approach to the selection of review if not, the areas of expenditure in respect of topics was required. This view was supported by which the three yearly review has not taken a Comptroller and Auditor General value for place. [17584/04] money study in 2001 which proposed that a more 603. Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Social realistic target should be set that took into and Family Affairs the areas of expenditure of account the level of evaluative capacity in her Department in respect of which an expendi- Departments generally. In that context my ture review under the expenditure review initiat- Department has operated on the basis of agreeing ive has not yet been completed and published. schedules of reviews with the Department of Fin- [17599/04] ance and presenting these to the central steering committee. The Department has delivered on Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary reviews, with those specified either completed or Coughlan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 602 commenced and currently ongoing. and 603 together. The following are the reviews which have been The objective of the expenditure review initiat- completed in the Department to date and those ive, ERI, launched in 1997, is to provide a system- which are currently under way: In Phase 1 (1997- atic analysis of what is being achieved by expendi- 2001), a total of 13 reviews were completed: ture in each programme, a basis on which more 1. Miscellaneous Grants to Men’s and Women’s Groups informed decisions can be made on priorities (1997) within and between expenditure programmes and 2. Family and Community Services Resource Centre Pro- a systematic and evidence based approach to pol- gramme (1998) icy making. 3. National Fuel and Smokeless Fuel Schemes (1998) My Department has undertaken a range of expenditure reviews under the initiative. These 4. Carer’s Allowance (1998) reviews have been carried out by working groups 5. Actuarial Review of Social Welfare Pensions (1997) involving staff from the relevant scheme areas, 6. Credited Contributions (1999) with representation from the Department of Fin- 7. Disincentive Effects of Secondary Benefits (1998) ance and other Departments and agencies, as 8. Back to Work Allowance Scheme (1999) appropriate. A steering committee is in place in the Department to provide support and direction 9. Report of the Working Group Examining the Treat- ment of Married, Cohabiting and One-Parent Families to the process, while the process overall is over- under the Tax and Social Welfare Codes (1999). seen by a central steering committee, chaired by 10. An Evaluation of the Back to Work Allowance and the Secretary General of the Department of Area Allowance Enterprise Scheme (2000) Finance. 11. Qualifying conditions for the Old Age (Contributory) Since the launch of the initiative in 1997, there and Retirement Pensions — Phase 1 (2000) have been two phases. At the end of the current 12. Free Schemes operated by the Department of Social phase my Department will have completed 22 and Family Affairs (2000) expenditure reviews, reflecting engagement at some level with approximately 70 % of our pro- 13. One-Parent Family Payment (2000) gramme expenditure. The principal programme In Phase 2 (2002-2004) the following is the areas which have not yet been specifically exam- position of the selected reviews:

Title of Review Status

1. Urban and Gaeltacht School Meals Completed (2002) 2. Social Welfare Payments to Orphans Completed (2003) 3. Illness and Disability Payments Completed (2003) 4. Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance Currently being finalised 5. Qualifying conditions for contributory pension Underway Phase II 6. Supplementary Welfare Allowance Interim Report nearing completion 7. Back to Education Allowance Due for completion in 2004 8. Unemployment Payment Schemes (as applied to atypical Due for completion in 2004/5 employment)

The process has made a positive contribution to could be improved and has also contributed in evidence based policy making, it has identified some cases to improvement in the administrative areas where the effectiveness of our programmes efficiencies of the schemes reviewed. 659 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 660

Question No. 604 answered with Question Social Welfare Code. No. 88. 606. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will review the position Social Insurance. whereby a person who is in receipt of a disability 605. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Social allowance loses this benefit if they decide to take and Family Affairs the PRSI class paid by taxi a spouse or partner who is on a good income; if drivers; the reason benefits are restricted for such her attention has been drawn to the fact that this self-employed persons; if she will increase the does not apply to a person who is in receipt of an range of benefits which can be claimed under this invalidity pension; and if she will make a state- category; and if she will make a statement on the ment on the matter. [17738/04] matter. [17737/04] Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan): The social welfare code provides for Coughlan): Workers are generally insured under a range of social insurance benefits which are the Social Welfare Acts either as employed or financed through PRSI contributions, and a range self-employed contributors. The nature of an of social assistance payments, which are payable employment contract, that is, whether as an subject to a means test and financed by the employee under a contract of service or a self- Exchequer through general tax revenue. The pur- employed person on a contract for services, deter- pose of the means test is to ensure that, for mines the class of PRSI contribution due, which people who do not have social insurance cover or in turn determines the range of benefits and pen- who have insufficient PRSI contributions to qual- sions to which contributors can build up an ify for benefit, resources are targeted at those entitlement. most in need. Thus social protection of the popu- Most workers are insured as employees, paying lation is general is provided through a combi- PRSI contributions at Class A which gives them nation of insurance-based and payments targeted entitlement to a broad range of benefits. While at need. there is no reason why a taxi driver could not be A person with a disability or long-term illness an employee, most taxi drivers are self-employed might qualify for an insurance based payment if and pay PRSI contributions at Class S, giving they have sufficient PRSI contributions either entitlement to a narrower range of benefits. disability benefit or invalidity pension. Entitle- Class S PRSI was introduced for the self- ment to social insurance benefits is not affected employed in 1988 and they have been compul- by the claimant’s income or, if one of a couple, sorily insured since. They are eligible for the fol- by their spouse-partner’s income although there lowing benefits and pensions: widow/ers contribu- may be an impact on the level of payments as tory pension; orphans contributory pension; old spousal means are taken into account in the cal- age contributory pension; maternity benefit; culation of qualified adult additions. adoptive benefit; and bereavement grant. Where a person with a disability or long-term When compulsory social insurance for the self- illness does not qualify for an insurance based employed was introduced, coverage for payment because of insufficient PRSI contri- insurance-based short-term benefits, such as dis- butions, he or she may qualify for a means-tested ability and unemployment, was excluded given disability allowance. In assessing means, account the difficulties of applying these to self-employed is taken of the claimant’s own means and, in the workers. This represents the position in many case of a couple, the joint means of the couple EU countries. are assessed. In addition, the value of any capital There are no plans at present to extend any of is also assessed. the short-term benefits to this group of insured While these arrangements might serve to workers. Any such measures would have signifi- explain the particular circumstances outlined in cant financial implications and would have to be the deputy’s question, it might be noted that considered in the wider budgetary context. To applicants for disability allowance are treated in extend the range of benefits for self-employed the similar manner to applicants for other social contributors would necessitate an appropriate assistance payments, for example, unemployment increase in the rate of PRSI Class S contribution. assistance, old age pension. A departure from My Department is examining the issues arising these arrangements would represent a fundamen- from the extension of other long-term benefits to tal change in the social welfare system with major self-employed persons, such as invalidity pen- implications both in terms of the cost and financ- sions. However I am not in a position to bring ing of the system. The policy of successive forward specific proposals at this time. governments has been to improve the level of I would point out however that a taxi driver social protection provided through the social or any other self-employed person may claim an insurance system, by extending access to coverage assistance based payment such as unemployment and the range of benefits which are covered by assistance, or disability allowance. the system. Entitlement to these payments is contingent on satisfying the appropriate conditions, including a Departmental Appointments. means test under which the annual income from self-employment is assessed. 607. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and 661 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 662

Family Affairs the appointments that have been made to State boards and bodies within her Since 1 January 2003 I have appointed five members to the Social Welfare Tribunal, as follows Department from 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004; the persons appointed; and the persons they are Person Date of Person Replaced replacing. [17806/04] Appointed Appointment Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan): The five statutory agencies operating Colin Walker 06/03/03 Reappointed under the aegis of my Department are the Pen- Patrick Pierce 04/10/03 Tom Noonan sions Board, the Combat Poverty Agency, Comh- Dympna 04/10/03 Reappointed airle, the Social Welfare Tribunal, and the Family Harpur Support Agency. Fergus Whelan 04/10/03 Reappointed On 16 February 2004 I appointed Mr. Michael Richard 04/10/03 Reappointed Keating McNulty as chairperson of the Pensions Board following the resignation of the previous chairp- erson, Ms Grainne Clohessy, in December 2003. On the Family Support Agency, the board was I also appointed, for the first time, a Pensions formally established on 6 May 2003 and all per- Ombudsman, Mr. Paul Kenny, from 28 April sons appointed then continue to hold office. They 2003. Appointments to the Combat Poverty are listed as follows: Agency Board since 1 January 2003 are as follows: Person Appointed Date of Appointment

Person Date of Person Replaced Mr Michael O’Kennedy 06/05/03 Appointed Appointment Mr Paddie Connellan 06/05/03 Ms Sinead Hanly 06/05/03 Brian Duncan 08/03/04 Reappointed Mr Gerard Mangan 06/05/03 Pearse 06/12/03 Reappointed Ms Clare Cashman 06/05/03 O’Hanrahan Mr Dick Hickey 06/05/03 Helen Johnston 01/06/04 Reappointed Mr Brendan Murphy 06/05/03 Tony Lane 31/01/03 Fintan Farrell Dr Colm O’Connor 06/05/03 Alice Robertson 31/01/03 Reappointed Ms Muriel Walls 06/05/03 Maria Gorman 31/01/03 Grace Maguire Ms Dilly O’Brien 06/05/03 Frank Curran 31/01/03 Benny Devlin Ms Brid Rocks 06/05/03 Anthony Gavin 31/01/03 Niall O’Keefe Ms Margaret Farrell 31/07/03 Marie O’Neill 20/02/03 Mary Kennedy Maria Corrigan 07/05/03 Reappointed Olive Sweetman 07/05/03 Michael Waugh Margaret 20/08/03 Reappointed Social Welfare Benefits. Sweeney 608. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Tony 20/08/03 Christina Maguire Family Affairs her views on whether it is fair that O’Callaghan when supplementary welfare assistance is Callista Bennis 01/06/04 Bernard Feeney awarded to a person in the Western Health Board in the County Mayo region for domestic appliances and furniture, these items are deliv- Persons appointed to Comhairle in the period 1 January 2003 to 15 June 2004 are as follows: ered to them from a firm in County Galway that no local businesses can provide the goods that it Person Date of Person Replaced can be over 100 miles from these firms to their Appointed Appointment homes giving them no immediate back-up when the goods are faulty and that it is unfair on small, John Hogan 19/06/03 Reappointed local businesses being squeezed out of the busi- Martin 19/06/03 Reappointed ness; and if he will consider leaving the suppliers Naughton to be nominated by each local community welfare Joe Meagher 19/06/03 * officer, as it always was. [17834/04] Michael Walsh 19/06/03 * Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Patricia Walshe 19/06/03 * Coughlan): The supplementary welfare allowance David Ormond 19/06/03 * scheme is administered on behalf of my Depart- Maria Mangan 08/07/03 * ment by the health boards. The scheme provides Hubert Kearns 04/11/03 * for a single payment to help meet essential, once- * These board members replaced the following people: off, exceptional expenditure which a person could Terry O’Sullivan not reasonably be expected to meet out of his or Carol Brill her weekly income. The scheme also provides John Gallahue that boards may grant assistance with exceptional Clare Young John Quinlivan needs in kind as well as in cash. The grant of Oliver Wilkinson. assistance in exceptional cases is at the discretion of the board. 663 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 664

[Mary Coughlan.] date and what they see as the priorities for The Western Health Board was contacted and strengthening family well-being. It is my priority has advised that for the past six years it has oper- to ensure that family in Ireland is fully taken into ated a policy of using a central source to supply account in further developing policies and pro- certain types of goods. grammes to afford the widest possible protection In the opinion of the board the policy it oper- and assistance to families and family life. My aim ates is the most effective and efficient way to deal is to bring forward a strategy to achieve this with the type of assistance in question and also objective before the end of this year. In doing so provides good value for money. The board is I will also take full account of the issues raised at satisfied that the service arrangements in oper- the fora. ation are satisfactory. During the first half of 2003, my Department, The board has further advised that the contract in co-operation with the Combat Poverty Agency, in place complies with EU law. In this regard ten- undertook an extensive public consultation pro- ders for the contract to supply the goods were cess to inform the development of our National advertised in local and national newspapers as Action Plan Against Poverty and Social well as the official EU journal. Exclusion 2003-2005, NAPs/incl., which was sub- mitted to the European Commission in July. Departmental Policy. This consultation process built on feedback 609. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Social obtained from the social partners and the com- and Family Affairs the name, number and com- munity and voluntary sector during a previous mencement date of policy review groups with a round of consultation relating to the revision of public consultative process under way within her the national anti-poverty strategy in 2002. Department; and if she will make a statement on The NAPs/incl. consultation process com- the matter. [17864/04] menced with a social inclusion forum convened by the National Economic and Social Forum in Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary January 2003 which was attended by individual Coughlan): Consultation with stakeholders is a members and representatives of the community key element of the policy making process within and voluntary sectors. A wider consultation then my Department in order to respond effectively to followed in April and May. This involved a series the needs of customers in the context of a chang- of national and regional seminars and an invi- ing economic and social environment. Such con- tation in the national newspapers for submissions. sultation and the development of participative There was a wide-ranging response across the structures where customers, representative board, and some 65 written submissions were organisations and stakeholders generally can received. express views, provide feedback on services deliv- ered and input into policy making is necessary to Question No. 610 answered with Question ensure that income support programmes and No. 98. associated supports continue to be relevant and effective. This is recognised in the Department’s Questions Nos. 611 and 612 answered with statement of strategy. Question No. 76. In the last week a major public consultative process was commenced by the Department relat- Social Welfare Benefits. ing to the future financing of long-term care in 613. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Ireland, on which I launched a major report last and Family Affairs the annual amount paid by year. In order to progress policy consideration way of rent allowance in lieu of housing in each and development in this area, the Department of the past four years; and if she will make a state- circulated a consultation document which aims to ment on the matter. [17880/04] focus interested parties on the specific complex issues which need to addressed. Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary These issues, which are discussed at length in Coughlan): The supplementary welfare allowance the report, include benefit design, delivery, cost scheme, which is administered on behalf of my and financing of long-term care in the future. The Department by the health boards, provides for document has been circulated to over 70 the payment of a rent supplement to assist with interested parties including Government depart- reasonable accommodation costs of eligible per- ments, health boards, interest groups and the sons who are unable to provide for their accom- social partners. These organisations and groups modation costs from their own resources and who have been asked to consider a number of issues do not have accommodation available to them and to reply to the Department by 16 July. from any other source. Last year I undertook a major nationwide con- Details of expenditure on rent supplements in sultation process with families, organisations who each of the past four years are set out in the work with families and public representatives to following: hear, first hand, their views on developments to 665 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 666

Expenditure on Rent Supplement for the years 2000 to 2003 Special Grants This year, the tenth anniversary of the UN Year Expenditure (\) International Year of Families, I announced a special awards scheme to fund projects and 2000 150.59m events to celebrate the role of the family. Some 2001 179.40m 950 applications have been received under this 2002 252.34m scheme. 2003 331.47m To mark this special year I also announced a once-off payment of \100 to parents of babies born on Leap Day, 29 February 2004. Questions Nos. 614 and 615 answered with Family Support Agency Question No. 88. The Family Support Agency, which was estab- lished on 6 May 2003 is responsible for a scheme Grant Payments. of grants for marriage, child and bereavement 616. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social counselling, which prior to the establishment of and Family Affairs the extent to which her the agency, was administered by my Department. Department has awarded grant aid to individuals, Total funding since 2002 under this scheme is as bodies, groups or institutions in each of the past follows: two years to date; and if she will make a state- ment on the matter. [17883/04] Year Amount (\) No. of organisations

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary 2002 6.7m 466 Coughlan): There are four grant aid schemes 2003 7.0m 460 administered by my Department:

Special Projects Fund In addition, I recently approved grants totalling The special projects fund provides supports \7.5 million to 523 organisations to be issued to unemployed people needing additional help shortly. to progress to further training and employ- The Agency also administers grants to more ment. The amounts and numbers of projects than 70 family and community resource centres involved are as follows: throughout the country. The budget for this scheme is as follows. Year Amount(\) No. of Projects

Year Amount(\) 2002 1.9m 180 2003 2.12m 200 2002 5.1m 2004 to date 0.7m 80 2003 7.0m 2004 8.4m Second Chance Education Opportunities Grants can be awarded to organisations for the development and promotion of second chance Social Welfare Benefits. education opportunities. A total of \325,000 was awarded under this scheme to six organisations in 617. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social each of 2002 and 2003. No grants have yet been and Family Affairs if she will consider improving awarded in 2004. entitlements under the optical and dental benefit scheme; and if she will make a statement on the Information Grants matter. [17884/04] Grants are paid to organisations and groups involved in dissemination of information on Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary social welfare rights and entitlements generally. Coughlan): The treatment benefit scheme oper- The amounts paid are as follows: ated by my Department provides to insured per- sons and their dependent spouses a range of ser- Year Amount (\) vices in the area of dental, optical and aural benefit. 2002 0.7m The availability of these benefits is subject to 2003 1.1m certain PRSI contribution conditions. The PRSI 2004 to date 0.9m contribution classes which qualify for treatment benefit are A, E, H and P. The operation of the schemes is subject to Family Services Project ongoing monitoring by my Department. I have no Grants can be awarded to local projects proposals, at present, for amending the dental involved in the provision of information and sup- and optical benefit schemes and any changes port services for families with difficulties. Expen- would be a matter for consideration in a budget- diture under this project amounted to \87,000 in ary context within the constraints of available 2002 and \1.35 million in 2003. resources. 667 Questions— 15 June 2004. Written Answers 668

618. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social grant, and a significant increase in the weekly and Family Affairs if she will consider extending income disregard for carer’s allowance. the free travel allowance to a wider category of Over the period 1997 to 2004 social welfare applicant; and if she will make a statement on the spending has nearly doubled, from \5.7 billion to matter. [17885/04] a projected \11.3 billion in 2004. In this period, rates were increased far in Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary excess of the cost of living. For example, the rate Coughlan): The free travel scheme is available to of old age pension has increased by 80%, rep- all people living in the State aged 66 years, or resenting a real increase of over 40%; the old age over, to all carers in receipt of carer’s allowance contributory pension has increased by 69%, rep- and to carers of people in receipt of constant resenting a real increase of 32%; the widow/er’s attendance or prescribed relative’s allowance. contributory pension aged 66 years and over has It is also available to people under age 66 who increased by 85.3%, representing a real increase are in receipt of certain disability type welfare of 45%. payments, such as disability allowance, invalidity The levels of increases provided in budget pension and blind person’s pension. People who 2004, in conjunction with the levels of increases live in health board approved residential care provided over the period from 1998, demonstrate who were previously receiving disability allow- the Government’s continuing commitment to ance from my Department or disabled person’s safeguard and enhance the living standards of the maintenance allowance from a health board are most vulnerable in our society. also entitled to a free travel pass. Further exten- Departmental Services. sions to the free travel scheme could only be con- 620. Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social sidered in a budgetary context and taking account and Family Affairs if she will provide the most of the financial and other needs of those not immediate statistics available on the number of covered by the existing arrangements. citizens who have made use of the information giving services of Comhairle [17930/04] 619. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has examined the extent Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary to which cost of living price increases has eroded Coughlan): The national information agency, widows pensions and similar social welfare pay- Comhairle, is charged with the task of supporting ments; if she will consider proposals to address the provision of independent information, advice the issue; and if she will make a statement on the and advocacy services so as to ensure that citizens matter. [17886/04] have access to accurate, comprehensive and clear information relating to social services. One of the Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary principal ways in which it carries out that task is Coughlan): Budget 2004 provided for increases in through the support it provides to the national the weekly personal rates of social welfare pay- network of citizen’s information centres and the citizen’s information phone service. ments, which were well ahead of inflation, as fol- During 2003, the last year for which statistics lows: a \11.50 increase in the maximum personal are available, citizen’s information centres rate of widow/er’s contributory pension and received almost 560,000 queries from citizens deserted wife’s benefit for those aged 66 years which represents an increase of 23% on the pre- and over, this represents an increase of 7.4% and vious year. Personal callers comprised just over a real increase, which is well ahead of inflation; \ half of those queries with telephone, letter, e-mail and a 10 increase in the maximum personal rate and outreach services making up the balance. The of all other weekly payments, including all other citizen’s information phone service which was widow/er’s pensions and all old age pensions. launched as a nation wide service in May 2003 These changes represent increases ranging from received more than 41,000 calls in 2003, an 6.4% to 10.3% and real increases which are well increase of 112% over the previous year. ahead of inflation. Comhairle also makes information available to Budget 2004 also provided for: increases in the citizens through the OASIS on-line access to ser- weekly rate of qualified adult allowances ranging vices, information and support, website which from 6.3% to 11.4%, again representing substan- provides user-friendly information on the full tial real increases; child benefit increases of \6 range of public services. In 2003, there were per month for the first two children and \8 for almost one million hits on this website. the third and subsequent child; an increase of A total of 359,500 copies of Comhairle infor- \200, from \2,500 to \2,700, in the widowed par- mation publications were produced and distrib- ent grant; a \100 increase in the respite care uted to members of the public in 2003.