Written Answers. - Parliamentary Debates - Houses of the Oireachtas

337 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 338Written Answers.The following are questions tabled by Membersfor written response and the ministerial repliesreceived from the Departments (unrevised).Questions No. 1 lapsed.Questions Nos. 2 to 14, inclusive, answeredorally.Food Industry.15. Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he willconsider the establishment of an expert group onniche product food production to come up withpractical recommendations regarding the bestway in which this sector can be promoted in ruralIreland; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5812/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): The development of thesmall food production sector is of particularinterest to me in the context of my remit as Ministerwith responsibility for rural development.In June last year I agreed to fund the appointmentof a small food producers co-ordinator towork, under the aegis of Comhar LEADER nahÉireann, with artisan and traditional food producers.The initiative is aimed at identifying barriersinhibiting small food producers, rangingfrom the scale of the enterprise, access to fundingand distribution, marketing and promotion aswell as the provision of skills and training and theregulatory environment. Achievements to dateunder this initiative include completion of a needsanalysis with small food producers, Leadergroups and agencies supporting the small foodsector; holding of regional seminars with Leadergroups; liaison with statutory agencies and producergroups to develop areas of co-operation;development of a small food business developmenttraining programme, in co-operation withFÁS services, for small businesses in the Cork-Kerry area covering areas such as finance, marketing,development of sales skills, distributionand quality management; completion of guidelinesto assist Leader groups in establishing farmersmarkets and voluntary codes of practice; andcompilation of a database of farmers markets;issue of templates and guidelines for the developmentof regional food guides to Leader groups.My Department maintains regular contactswith the relevant Government Departments andstatutory agencies, such as the Food Safety Authorityof Ireland and Bord Bia. Arising from that,the co-ordinator has recently being appointed asa member of the FSAI artisan forum.National Drugs Strategy.16. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the positionregarding the mid-term review of the nationaldrugs strategy; when the review will be complete;if he is in a position to report on the review to theCabinet sub-committee on social inclusion; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[5797/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): As the Deputy will be aware, work onthe mid-term review of the national drugsstrategy has been ongoing since mid-2004. Thereview is being overseen by a steering group,chaired by my Department, and comprising representativesfrom a number of relevant Departmentsand agencies as well as the community andvoluntary sectors. A comprehensive consultationprocess was undertaken as part of the review andPA Consulting Group was engaged to assist thesteering group in its work.The review is examining the progress made todate in implementing the strategy and identifyingfuture priorities for the remaining period up to2008. The review is also examining the relevanceof the strategy in tackling the current nature andextent of drug misuse in Ireland, including emergingtrends.I expect the steering group to report to me bymid to late March. I will then be making recommendationson the way forward to the CabinetCommittee on Social Inclusion at the earliestopportunity.Seirbhísí Sláinte.17. D’fhiafraigh Mr. McCormack den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad éan dul chun cinn ata déanta maidir le ceapadhmúinteoirí teiripe cainte Gaeilge, cen áit ambeidh siad lonnaithe, an mbeidh siad ag freastalar dhaltaí taobh amuigh den Ghaeltacht a bhfuilan Ghaeilge mar chéad teanga acu, agus an bhfuilaon ionchur ag an Roinn Sláinte sna ceapacháin.[5539/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): D’fhógair mé ar 23Eanáir 2005 go raibh comh-mhaoiniú ar bhonn50:50 gur fiú \87,000 ceadaithe agamd’Fheidhmeannas na Seirbhíse Sláinte le cumasúdó triúr teiripeoirí urlabhra agus teanga leGaeilge a fhostú chun cur leis na seirbhísí abhíonn ar fáil sa réimse sin sna ceantairGhaeltachta.Is faoin bhFeidhmeannas atá sé, i gcomhar leisan Roinn Sláinte agus Leanaí de réir mar aoireann, na teiripeoirí seo a earcú agus a lonnúpé áit a fhágann go mbainfear an luach is fearr isféidir as an mbeartas seo agus tuigtear dom gobhfuil socraithe ina leith idir lámha ag anbhFeidhmeannas cheana féin.Ní miste a rá gur céim eile í seo atá tógtha lefeidhm phraiticiúil a thabhairt don méid atámolta i dTuarascáil Choimisiún na Gaeltachtaagus gur ar an mbonn go gcuideoidh an beartasseo lena chinntiú go ndéantar an Ghaeilge asheachadadh ó ghlúin go glúin sa Ghaeltacht aceadaíodh an cúnamh sa chás seo. Is ar an tuiscintgo nglacfaidh an Feidhmeannas freagracht asmaoiniú iomlán an bheartais seo tar éis bliana aceadaíodh an maoiniú seo.

339 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 340Foras na Gaeilge.18. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den Aire GnóthaíPobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an ndéanfaidh sécur síos ar an easaontas atá ar siúl, de réirnuachtán, idir Foras na Gaeilge agus roinnteagras Gaeilge, agus an nglacfaidh sé rólcabhrach chun réiteach a fháil ar an aighneas seogan mhoill. [5787/05]23. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Gilmore den Aire GnóthaíPobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an aontaíonn ségo bhfuil muinín caillte ag eagraíochtaí Gaeilge,thuaidh agus theas, as Foras na Gaeilge (sonraítugtha); agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas inaleith. [5793/05]30. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Gilmore den Aire GnóthaíPobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé sástago bhfuil go leor teagmhála ag Foras na Gaeilgele heagraíochtaí Gaeilge ar an talamh (sonraítugtha); agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas inaleith. [5794/05]38. D’fhiafraigh Mr. M. Higgins den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta anaontaíonn sé go bhfuil buiséad mór ag Foras naGaeilge agus ról straitéiseach náisiúnta nachbhfuil á chur i bhfeidhm (sonraí tugtha); agus anndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina leith. [5790/05]42. D’fhiafraigh Ms Burton den Aire GnóthaíPobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an aontaíonn sénach bhfuil roinnt cinntí atógadh ag Foras naGaeilge trédhearcach do ghrúpaí pobail atá agfeidhmiú ar an talamh (sonraí curtha ar fáil); agusan ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina leith. [5792/05]54. D’fhiafraigh Mr. M. Higgins den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta anaontaíonn sé go bhfuil Foras na Gaeilge aniomarca faoi thionchar an Stáit (sonraí tugtha);agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina leith. [5795/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): Ba mhaith liomCeisteanna Uimh. 18, 23, 30, 38, 42 agus 54 athógáil le chéile agus sna cásanna sin aird nadTeachtaí a dhíriú ar an bhfreagra a thug mé archeist uimhir 8 inniú.Questions Nos. 19 to 21, inclusive, answeredwith Question No. 10.Údarás na Gaeltachta.22. D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta anbhfuil aon socrú déanta aige bualadh le BordÚdaras na Gaeltachta chun na giorruithe airgidata á gcur i bhfeidhm a phlé, agus an bhfuil séféin sásta go mbeidh sé ar chumas an Údaráis andualgais a chomhlíonadh de bharr a n-easpaacmhainní faoi mar atá faoi láthair. [5789/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): Tá sé i gceist agambualadh le Bord Údarás na Gaeltachta ar 4 Márta2005. Glacaim leis go ndéanfar plé, i measc rudaíeile, faoin soláthar airgid a bheidh ar fáil donÚdarás sa bhliain reatha agus faoi thosaíochtaí naheagraíochta don tréimhse amach romhainn.Tá soláthar iomlán de\34.33 million curtha arfáil sna Meastacháin Ghiorraithe d’Údarás naGaeltachta don bhliain 2005. Is méadú 3.4% é seoar an tsuim \33.193 million a cuireadh ar fáil i2004. Ag cur san áireamh an fáltas a gheofar ófhoinsí eile, mar shampla, ioncam ó fhoirgnimh arcíos agus ó sheirbhísí, maraon le teacht isteach ódhíol sócmhainní, aisíoc deontas agus fáltais eile,tá mé sásta go gcuirfidh an soláthar seo ar chumasan Údaráis leanúint ar aghaidh leis an obairfhiúntach a dhéanann sé iréimsí tábhachtacha armhaithe le buanú na Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht.Question No. 23 answered with QuestionNo. 18.Question No. 24 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Proposed Legislation.25. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Ministerfor Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs ifthe date for the publication of the draft charitieslegislation remains the end of 2005; if any newinformation has been made available on hisDepartment’s webpage; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5808/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): In June of last year, following successfulcompletion of our public consultation on charitiesregulation, I gave end 2005 as the best estimate atthat stage for publication of the draft legislation.While I would not like to predict with certaintythat this ambitious target can still be met on thenail, I can assure the Deputy that work is proceedingas speedily as possible within my Department.A further milestone in the process wasreached only last week when, on Wednesday, 16February, I launched the Law Reform Commission’sconsultation paper on proposals forreform of charitable trust law.The Law Reform Commission agreed to assistand advise my Department in addressing certaingovernance issues as they relate to charitabletrusts. The consultation paper represents aspecialist contribution towards achievement ofthe Government commitment to regulate thecharities sector for the first time in Ireland. Theintention is that the outcome of the public consultationwould be available to my Department forconsideration during the course of preparation ofthe draft legislation.As to what new information has been madeavailable on our charities regulation webpage, athttp://www.pobail.ie/en/CharitiesRegulation/, thepress release which I issued on the occasion oflast week’s launch can be found there; and theconsultation paper itself can be accessed via thehyperlink on the webpage to the Law ReformCommission’s website.

341 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 342Dormant Accounts Fund.26. Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when thenext round of grants from the dormant accountsfund will be allocated; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5803/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): Decisions on the disbursement of fundsfrom dormant accounts moneys are currently amatter for the Dormant Accounts Fund DisbursementsBoard, an independent body establishedunder the Dormant Accounts Acts. Theboard engaged Area Development ManagementLimited, ADM, to administer the initial round offunding on its behalf.In June 2004, the Government announced anincrease in the overall amount that the DormantAccounts Fund Disbursements Board may spendfrom \30 million to \60 million under this initialround of funding. To date the board hasapproved 420 projects for funding totallingapproximately \42 million. Over the comingweeks further allocations will be made by theboard up to a total figure of \60 million. In thisregard, I understand that the board at its meetingtoday considered a number of further applicationsrecommended for funding.The Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Bill2004 was published on 24 June 2004 fulfilling acommitment given by Government in December2003 following its review of arrangements inrelation to dormant accounts funding. The Bill iscurrently before the Oireachtas.Forbairt na Gaeilge.27. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den Aire GnóthaíPobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an ndéanfaidh sécur síos ar thionchar na rialachán a rinne sé abhaineann le comharthaí bóithre, fógairtí béil,stáiseanóireacht agus le fógraí i gcoitinne, agus anbhfuil feabhas suntasach ar mhéid agus ar chaighdeánna Gaeilge a bhíonn le feiscint mar a raibhsé ag súil leis. [5786/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): Mar a thug mé le fios ibhfreagra ar Cheist Dála Uimh. 79 ar 14 Nollaig2004, tá mo Roinnse ag obair, i gcomhar le hOifigan Dréachtóra Parlaiminte, ar dhréacht de naRialacháin a dhéanfar faoi Alt 9(1) d’Acht nadTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003. Tuigfidh an Teachtanach mór do mo Roinn-se, mar chuid lárnach donphróiseas, dul i gcomhairle le Ranna Rialtais eilemaidir leis an ábhar seo sula gcuirfidh mé na Rialacháini bhfeidhm. Ó tharla gur rialacháin cuimsitheachaa bhaineann le hábhair éagsúla atá igceist, níl i gceist agam teora ama sonrach a lualeis an bpróiseas comhcomhairle seo. Tá sé marsprioc agam, áfach, go mbeidh na Rialacháindéanta roimh lár na bliana reatha agus tá súilagam go gcloífear leis sin.Cé nach féidir liom mionsionraí a tabhairt godtí go mbeidh na Rialacháin déanta, is féidir liomarágo bhfuil dhá bhunphrionsabal lárnacha sacheist seo. Tá sé i gceist agam go mbeidh roghaidir Ghaeilge, nó Gaeilge agus Béarla, a úsáid. Níbheith an triú rogha — Béarla amháin — dlíthiúilníos mó. Beidh forálacha ar leith ag baint leis annGaeltacht. An dara rud ná go gcaithfidh anGhaeilge a bheith ar a laghad ar chomh-thaispeántachtleis an mBéarla ar aon chomhartha sachás go roghnófar an dá theanga oifigiúilaúsáid.Question No. 28 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Question No. 29 answered with QuestionNo. 7.Question No. 30 answered with QuestionNo. 18.Question No. 31 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Oileáin amach ón gCósta.32. D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire GnóthaíPobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an dulchun cinn atá déanta maidir le haer-stráice a churar fáil ar Oileán Thoraí, agus an ndéanfaidh seráiteas ina thaobh. [5817/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): Faoi mar is eol donTeachta, le cúpla bliain anuas tá Údarás na Gaeltachtai mbun oibre réamh-phleanála i gcomhairaerstráice ar Oileán Thoraí. Ag eascairt ón obairseo, fuarthas Cead Pleanála ó Comhairle ChontaeDhún na nGall i leith thógáil an aerstráice seo.Chun an togra seo a bhrú ar aghaidh, d’iarr moRoinn anuraidh ar an Údarás dul ar aghaidh lecuardach ar an suíomh don fhorbairt ar mhaithele húinéirí na talún a aimsiú. Ach an obair seo abheith críochnaithe, déanfar cinneadh maidir leisan ngá le hOrduithe Ceannacháin Éigeantaigh achur i bhfeidhm ar an talamh don togra.Decentralisation Programme.33. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if any newinformation is available to him in regard toadditional applications through the central applicationsfacility for posts in his Department to betransferred to new locations under the Government’sdecentralisation plan; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5810/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): My Department hasreceived information from the central applicationsfacility, CAF, on a number of occasionssince September 2004.The information received relates to numbers ofcivil and public servants who have expressed aninterest in decentralising with my Department toKnock Airport and na Forbacha, the gradebreakdown of these numbers, the names of servingstaff in my Department who had opted tomove with my Department or who had expressed

343 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 344[Éamon Ó Cuív.]a wish to transfer to other decentralised locations.The most recent updated information wasreceived on 15 February 2005, which included thenames and other details of those who haveexpressed an interest in decentralising with myDepartment. This information indicates that thenumber of applicants from general Civil Servicegrades now stands at 157 with, in addition, nineapplications from other Civil Service grades andten from other public servants.The grade breakdown for general civil servantsis as follows:GradePrincipal Officer 2Assistant Principal 10Higher Executive Officer 28Administrative Officer 1Executive Officer 45Staff Officer 12Clerical Officer 57Services Officer 2Total 157Income Support Scheme.34. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he willreport on the success or otherwise of the ruralsocial scheme to date; the number of participantson the scheme at present; if he has satisfied himselfwith the level of awareness of the scheme;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[1924/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): The rural social scheme,the details of which were announced in May 2004,accepted its first participants in July 2004 and thenumbers have been increasing steadily since then.There are 1,114 participants on the scheme atpresent. There are 36 implementing bodiesthroughout the country and of those 27 have commencedprojects under the scheme to date.In addition, all 36 implementing bodies areworking to ensure that there is a high level ofawareness of the scheme in their respective communities.This is being achieved with the co-operationof the local social welfare offices which havesent information regarding the scheme to allrecipients of farm assist. Advertisements haveappeared in local newspapers and communitypublications and a number of the implementingbodies have held public information awarenessmeetings. I also avail of opportunities regularlyto raise awareness about the scheme in relevantpublic fora.I consider that substantial progress has beenmade in this period of time. I expect the participantnumbers will continue to increase and thatall 2,500 places will be availed of in the nearfuture.Question No. 35 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Question No. 36 answered with QuestionNo. 7.Question No. 37 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Question No. 38 answered with QuestionNo. 18.Area Development Management.39. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if any newproposals have been brought to Government withregard to the restructuring of ADM; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5800/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): I refer the Deputy tomy replies to Question No. 75 on 9 November2004 and Question No. 60 on 14 December 2004.Progress is being made in the restructuring ofADM. Proposals have yet to be brought toGovernment to give effect to these changes.Departmental Programmes.40. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the nature ofthe works which his Department has financiallysupported in the past 12 months, with particularreference to urban and rural community groupsand those involved in combating drugs or otherwise;and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5973/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): My Department fundsa variety of measures to assist both urban andrural community groups, as well as measures tocombat drugs misuse.In 2004, an amount of \20.6 million was providedin my Department’s Vote for the communitydevelopment programme. Expenditure onthat programme in the period February 2004 toend January 2005 was \21.677 million. This fundingsupports 185 community development projects,CDPs, in communities experiencing socialand economic disadvantage. These projects providefacilities such as meeting rooms, crèches,office facilities and training or education projectsto meet the needs of disadvantaged groups intheir communities. The programme also includesgroups that act as a resource for communitydevelopment work with particular interestgroups, for example, Travellers, lone parents,people with disabilities and ethnic or culturalminorities. The programme is designed to reducepoverty and social exclusion through targetingsupport at disadvantaged and socially excludedcommunities in order to improve their capacity tobenefit from economic and social development.Funding for the community development prog-

345 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 346ramme has been increased to \22.4 million for the2005 year.My Department provides a range of once-offgrants to a wide variety of locally-based communityand voluntary groups. Funding ofapproximately \3.3 million was provided in thepast 12 months for grants in the following categories:equipment and refurbishment grants — targetedat voluntary and community organisationsin disadvantaged areas; and education, trainingand research grants — providing once-off paymentsto fund training, education or researchinitiatives aimed at supporting and enhancing theeffectiveness of local community and voluntarygroups in disadvantaged areas.The scheme of community support for olderpeople encourages and assists local support forolder people by means of a community basedgrant scheme to improve the security of its oldermembers. Funding is provided by way of grantaid to voluntary groups and organisations, whichhave undertaken to identify those elderly peoplein need of assistance under the scheme. MyDepartment provided funding of approximately\2.5 million in the past 12 months under thescheme.In 2004, \3.2 million was paid in grants tocounty-city development boards to fund cohesionand better delivery service projects which havebeen proposed by various agencies under theimproved co-ordination of local and communitydevelopment schemes.In 2004, there was a provision of \42.144 millionin my Department’s Vote for the localdevelopment social inclusion programme, LDSIP.Funding was allocated to partnerships and communitypartnerships and territorial employmentpacts to deliver the programme under threemeasures — services for the unemployed, communitybased youth initiatives and communitydevelopment.Capital funding of \4.5 million was available in2004 to support small scale localised actions inRAPID areas, through co-funding with the relevantDepartment or agency. Funding of \1.3million was also available to support ADM andlocal areas in the implementation of the RAPIDprogramme.Details of the areas covered by LDSIP andRAPID are available on my Department’s website,www.pobail.ie.The Peace II programme is a distinctive EUStructural Funds programme aimed at reinforcingprogress towards a peaceful and stable societyand promoting reconciliation. My Department,through ADM-CPA, implements 12 measures ofthis programme that range from developing communityinfrastructure to new skills and newopportunities. Funding of \10.615 million wasprovided in my Department’s Vote to meet commitmentsunder the programme in 2004.My Department has overall responsibility forco-ordinating the implementation of the NationalDrugs Strategy 2001-2008.In this context, my Department has responsibilityfor the work of the 14 local drugs taskforces in Dublin, Cork and Bray and the tenregional drugs task forces located in all areas ofthe country. The Department also funds thepremises initiative which is designed to meet theaccommodation needs of community based drugsprojects and the young peoples facilities and servicesfund development groups which are basedin the 14 local drugs task forces areas, as well asCarlow, Waterford, Limerick and Galway.In 2004, my Department spent over \27 millionon the above areas. In addition, an amount ofover \6.5 million was transferred from the Voteof my Department to the Vote of the Departmentof Education and Science in early 2004 for mainstreamedyoung people’s facilities and servicesfund projects.An amount of \21.98 million was provided in2004 for schemes to benefit communities in Gaeltachtareas, including road improvement, marineworks, group water schemes, leisure facilities andcultural initiatives. In 2004, a capital allocation of\10.35 million was available for island developmentpurposes. While the greater part of thisfunding was spent on essential public infrastructureon the islands, a proportion was also allocatedtowards community led projects such asrecreational facilities and community centres.My Department also provided funding of\33.183 million in 2004 to Údarás na Gaeltachtato assist in developing industries, services andemployment opportunities, in addition to fosteringand strengthening the Irish language, inGaeltacht areas.In the past 12 months, CLÁR funds of \10.9million were spent on the various measures underthe programme. This expenditure supported theprovision and improvement of facilities rangingfrom roads, water and sewerage, village, housingand schools enhancement, health, broadband,electricity conversions and sports and communityprojects.Under the programme, community groupsavailed of assistance under the measures detailedin the appendix set out below.The rural development fund, provided for inthe White Paper on rural development, wasestablished to support research, evaluations andpilot actions mainly in disadvantaged rural areas.In the period in question the fund supported anumber of initiatives including training in traditionalskills; employment of local developmentworkers; local tourism development projects; andthe employment of a co-ordinator to examinebarriers facing small food producers. A total of\582,634 has been spent on the rural developmentfund from February 2004 to end January2005.My Department provides support to rural communitiesunder the Leader+ initiative and thearea based rural development initiative and therural development initiatives of the cross-Borderprogrammes INTERREG IIIA and PEACE II.

347 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 348[Éamon Ó Cuív.]The essential aim of the Leader+ initiative,which has a public contribution of some \73.7million, is to encourage new approaches to integratedand sustainable development in rural communities.The initiative is in place in 22 areasthroughout the country.The area based rural development initiativehas a public contribution of \75.6 million. Theinitiative complements the Leader+ programmeand ensures the availability of funding in the 13areas that were not appointed to deliver theLeader+ programme. Funding for rural-agritourismis provided from this programme on a nationwidebasis. In addition, the three collectivebodies, Muintir na Tíre, Irish FarmhouseHolidays and Irish Country Holidays that are noteligible under LEADER+, receive assistanceunder this programme.The rural social scheme was introduced in 2004to focus on the provision of direct services in thecommunity and at the same time to ensure anincome for small farmers on long-term social welfarebenefits with a working week compatiblewith farming.There are 1,114 participants on the scheme atpresent. There are 36 implementing bodiesthroughout the country and of those 27 have commencedprojects under the rural social schemeto date.My Department continued to provide supportto rural communities in the past 12 months underthe rural development initiatives of the cross-Border programmes INTERREG IIIA andPEACE II.Under the INTERREG III Ireland-WalesProgramme 2000-2006 there is a rural developmentand diversification measure to promote theeconomic and social well being of the rural communitiesin INTERREG target areas. The totalfunding package for this measure is \10 million,2000-06. To date over 60% of this funding hasbeen committed.The rural initiative measure of theINTERREG IIIA Ireland-Northern IrelandProgramme 2000-2006 aims to develop andstrengthen the rural economy in disadvantagedcross-Border areas. The funding packageamounts to \14 million over the period of theprogramme, 2000-06. To date, \5.9 million hasbeen committed.Funding is also provided in two measuresunder the PEACE II Programme 2000-2004, promotingrural community networking in marginalisedrural communities and rural developmentco-operation and diversification. Thefunding package for both measures amounts to\5.7 million, of which over 60% has beencommitted.The Dormant Accounts Fund DisbursementsBoard, which is currently responsible for overseeingthe disbursement of funds from dormantaccounts, comes under the aegis of my Department.The board is an independent body establishedunder the Dormant Accounts Acts. Fundsfrom dormant accounts are targeted at assistingdisadvantaged groups and communities andassisting persons with a disability. During 2004,the board approved 420 projects for funding totallingapproximately \42 million.APPENDIXThe figures relate to CLÁR expenditure onlyand cover the period 1 February 2004-31January 2005.Group Water Scheme and Group SewerageSchemeCLÁR provides funding to householders inthe group schemes by way of limited top-upgrants. The schemes are selected by the localauthority on foot of applications received fromgroups. Expenditure on group water schemes andon group sewerage schemes totalled \0.044 millionand nearly \0.072 million, respectively.Local Improvement Scheme, LISCLÁR funds LIS roads to provide support forbetter road access to homes in remoter areas.Applicants contact their local authority whoadministers the scheme. The allocation underCLÁR is determined by the level of investmentby the local authority from its county LIS allocation.Expenditure: \2.374 million.Village Enhancement SchemeCLÁR supports the joint village enhancementscheme operated by the Leader companies andthe local authorities covering small-scale infrastructuralprojects. Applicant villages, which alsocontribute to the scheme, contact their localLeader group. Expenditure: \0.318 million.Local Authority Housing Estate EnhancementSchemeCLÁR and the local authorities co-fund a localauthority housing estate enhancement schemewith a local contribution per project, which areselected by the local authority. Expenditure:\0.224 million.Bi-lingual Signage SchemeCLÁR and Foras na Gaeilge jointly fund abilingual signage scheme for community projectsin villages selected by Leader under the villageenhancement scheme. A bilingual townland signagescheme also operates with funding from thelocal community. Expenditure: \0.032 million.Top Up Scheme Sports Capital GrantsCLÁR provides limited top up funding to projectsthat are selected under the sports capitalgrants scheme run by the Department of Arts,Sport and Tourism and recommended for CLÁRsupport by that Department. Expenditure:\0.850 million.

349 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 350Gaeltacht Sports and Community GrantsCLÁR provides limited top up funding to projectsin Gaeltacht areas supported by the Gaeltachtdivision of the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs under its the Gaeltachtimprovement scheme. Expenditure: \0.131million.Community InitiativesCommunity based projects attracting less than50% public funding under Leader may qualify forCLÁR top-up funding subject to the certain conditions.Applicant villages contact their localLeader group. Expenditure: \0.256 million.School Outdoors Play Facilities EnhancementSchemeThis scheme aims to improve outdoor playfacilities in small rural primary schools in CLÁRareas and is co-funded by CLÁR and the Departmentof Education and Science up to 75% of thecost, supplemented by a 25% contribution fromlocal sources. Expenditure: \0.297 million.Question No. 41 answered with QuestionNo. 7.Question No. 42 answered with QuestionNo. 18.Question No. 43 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Question No. 44 answered with QuestionNo. 6.Question No. 45 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Rural Development.46. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views onthe recently published review of enterprise supportin rural areas; if he intends fully to supportthe implementation of its recommendations interms of his Department’s role in rural development;and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5818/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): The review ofenterprise support in rural areas was launched on17 January 2005 at my Department’s nationalrural development forum.With my colleagues, the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment and the Ministerfor Arts, Sport and Tourism, whose areas ofresponsibility are also covered in the report, I amnow examining the recommendations.Decisions on implementation will, as appropriate,take account of the wider policy contextand the operations and enterprise support strategiesof development agencies.I will also be taking account of the ruralenterprise report in the context of the post-2006EU rural development programmes. The provisionsof the draft EU regulation, which willapply to the period 2007-2013, include diversificationof the rural economy through, for example,development of micro-enterprises and rural tourism.Implementation will be through a localdevelopment strategy based on the Leader methodology.The negotiations on the details of howthese arrangements, including funding, are to beimplemented continue at EU level.Irish Language.47. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views onthe development of an Irish language radiostation for young persons; if he intends to progressthis project; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5819/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): The Broadcasting Commissionof Ireland, BCI, recently conducted a surveyto determine the level of interest among theyounger generation in Irish language radio programmes.The survey was co-funded by the commission,my own Department and by Foras naGaeilge. The BCI published the results of the surveyon 20 January 2005 and I intend to discussthose results with the relevant parties in thenear future.As I have already outlined to the House, thisissue was brought forward in the context of thereport of Coimisiún na Gaeltachta and in subsequentdiscussions by the advisory committeeestablished by me to advise in regard to practicalactions to implement the recommendations of thecommission. Responsibility for the overall issueof establishing any such radio service on anational basis would rest with the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources.Health Services.48. Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he willelaborate on his recent announcement regardingthe provision of speech and language therapy forIrish speaking children in Gaeltacht schools; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5804/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): I announced on 23January 2005 that I had approved the provisionof \87,000 to the Health Service Executive to cofinanceon a 50:50 basis the appointment of threeIrish-speaking speech and language therapists inorder to improve the level and nature of thespeech and language therapy services provided inGaeltacht areas.The arrangements surrounding the recruitmentand deployment of these therapists to the besteffect is a matter for the Health Service Executivein co-operation with the Department of Healthand Children, as appropriate. I understand thatdiscussions have already taken place on theseissues.

351 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 352[Éamon Ó Cuív.]The provision of this once-off funding to theHealth Service Executive by my Department forthis improved service represents another positiveand significant measure in the practical implementationof the recommendations of Coimisiúnna Gaeltachta and will help to ensure that thelanguage is carried forward in the Gaeltacht as aliving spoken language to the next generation. Itshould be noted that the grant was sanctioned onthe understanding that the Health Service Executivewould assume full responsibility for fundingthe initiative after the first year.Proposed Legislation.49. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status ofthe promised charities legislation; the proposalscontained in this legislation; when it will be published;and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5820/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): In accordance with the commitment inAn Agreed Programme for Government, a comprehensivereform of the law relating to charitieswill be brought forward to regulate the sector forthe first time in Ireland. As I informed the Houseon 14 December 2004, the content of the draftlegislation would be likely to reflect the proposalsin the Government-approved Consultation Paperon Establishing a Modern Statutory Frameworkfor Charities, which received a broad overallendorsement in the public consultation phaselast year.While it would not be possible at this stage forme to predict with certainty that the best estimatewhich I gave last year of end 2005 for publicationof the draft Bill can be met on the nail, I canassure the Deputy that work on preparation ofthe draft legislation is proceeding as speedily aspossible, and that it is being given priority withinmy Department. In the context of the overalltimeframe, I might also recall that I advised theHouse on the same occasion last December thatthe draft legislation would involve statute lawrevision and restatement, in addition to the newregulatory provisions. Going forward, therefore,we would be looking at a future charities regulationBill of substance in vision, content and size.Income Support Scheme.50. Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the publicpolicy initiative he has taken that will result inmuch needed income other than from mainstreamfarming for the many medium and smallscale farm families who will need this income ifthey are to stay in the countryside; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5805/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): The rural social schemewas introduced in 2004 to provide directlyimproved rural services and at the same time toensure an income and employment support forfarmers who can no longer make a viable livingon the land, within a working arrangement compatiblewith farming.The scheme was designed specifically for farmfamilies and its operations and structures areoperated in a farmer-friendly manner. Thescheme recognises that farmers have a wealth ofexperience and talents that need to be preservedfor future generations and these talents are beingharnessed for the good of the community. Thisscheme focuses on the provision of direct servicesin the community.There are 1,114 participants on the scheme atpresent. There are 36 implementing bodiesthroughout the country and of those 27 have commencedprojects under the rural social scheme todate. I expect the participant numbers will continueto increase and that all 2,500 places will beavailed of in the near future.Departmental Investigations.51. Mr. McCormack asked the Minister forCommunity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if hisdepartmental investigation into allegations ofunprofessional conduct in Irish Waterways hasbeen completed; the findings of the investigation;if he intends publishing the report; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5831/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): As I outlined to theHouse in my reply to Question 38 of 14December 2004, a joint investigation into allegationsof bullying and harassment and relatedmatters in Waterways Ireland was carried out,with the consent of the parties involved, by independentinvestigators appointed by my Departmentand the Department of Culture, Arts andLeisure in the North. The report of the investigatorswas submitted to the Departments andactions to be taken on foot of the report havebeen agreed with the chief executive of WaterwaysIreland.The issue of a joint statement by the Departmentsin the matter is under consideration. I willarrange for a copy of any such statement to besupplied to the Deputy.I welcome this opportunity to again acknowledgethe efforts of the chief executive and staffof Waterways Ireland in advancing the work ofthis important North-South body, often in complexand difficult circumstances. As I stated in theHouse last December, the promotion of North-South co-operation in areas within my Department’sremit remains a high priority for me and Iwill continue, in particular, to support the workof the North-South bodies responsible for inlandwaterways and language matters in every waypossible.Questions Nos. 52 and 53 answered with QuestionNo. 10.

353 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 354Question No. 54 answered with QuestionNo. 18.Question No. 55 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Departmental Programmes.56. Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, havingaccepted that Ballyfermot was wrongly excludedfrom strand 1 of the RAPID programme, he hasaddressed the situation to allow for its inclusion;if he has any further plans to expand the RAPIDprogramme; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5801/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): I have no plans atpresent to expand the geographical boundaries ofRAPID areas. However, as I have stated previously,there appears to be an anomaly inrelation to Ballyfermot, which despite meetingthe criteria for inclusion in strand I of the programme,was omitted due to its inclusion in theURBAN II programme. I have met representativesfrom Ballyfermot in relation to this issueand I am awaiting their proposal.Question No. 57 answered with QuestionNo. 10.Consultancy Contracts.58. Mr. Durkan asked the Taoiseach thenumber, cost and status of all public relationsconsultancies, contracts or procurements enteredinto by or on behalf of his Department or itsagencies or agencies in the past three years; theterms of reference in each such appointment; theperson to whom such persons report and fromwhom they receive instructions; if any such personor groups had any previous contracts, commitmentsor employment with either of theGovernment parties; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5543/05]The Taoiseach: The total number of PR consultancycontracts entered into by or on behalf ofthis Department in the past three years was 13 —three by my Department and ten by bodies underthe aegis of my Department. Details of the contractsawarded by my Department are listed inAppendix 1, and details in respect of bodiesunder the aegis of the Department are listed inAppendix 2.The PR consultancies listed were not engagedpreviously by this Department during the lifetimeof the current Government.Appendix 1. PR contracts awarded by the Department of the Taoiseach1. Grayling GilmoreLength of Contract: July 2003-January 2004Cost: \60,000Terms of Reference:Instructed by:Status:To promote and sustain awareness of Ireland’s hosting of the EU Presidency and it’spositive implications for the country. To highlight the calendar of events in advanceof the Presidency and to explain the implications of our hosting of the Presidencydomestically and internationally. To assist the Government Press Office with theeffective communication of how and why decisions are made at European level, toencourage our citizens to engage in the processes that shape our lives. To promoteand sustain awareness of Ireland’s hosting of the Presidency and it’s positiveimplications for the country. July 2003: To organise a National Launch of Ireland’sPresidency logo in tandem with the launch of the EU Event Calendar, involving theTaoiseach, Tánaiste and senior Ministers. August 2003: The organisation andmanagement of a 4 week publicity campaign that would highlight the mainMinisterial meetings and how they impact on the lives of citizens in those regions.December 2003: To promote and increase awareness immediately prior to our takeoverof the EU Presidency by positively engaging the public both locally andnationally in the importance and significance of the role.Grayling Gilmore reported to and received instructions from the Government PressSecretary and the Press and Information Office in the Department of the TaoiseachCompleted2. Carr CommunicationsLength of Contract: May 2004-July 2004Cost: \12,100Terms of Reference:Instructed by:Status:A contract for PR consultancy services was entered into by this Department in respectof the publication of the National Disability Strategy. The contract was completedwith the publication of the Strategy on 21st September 2004. Its purpose was: Toensure consistency and quality across the Outline Sectoral Plans; to advise on thearrangements for publication of the Disability Bill, the Comhairle (Amendment) Billand the Outline Sectoral Plans; to support and advise on a common approach topublic information in the case of the aboveCarr Communications reported to the Department’s Social Policy Unit working closelywith the Department of Justice, Equality and Law ReformCompleted

355 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 3563. Des GeraghtyLength of Contract:Cost:Terms of Reference:Instructed by:Status:May 2004 — Ongoing\2,275 (plus \445 for travel and subsistence expenses)Mr. Geraghty, former President of SIPTU, is engaged to advise the Contact Group,chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach, to progress the Affordable HousingInitiative under Sustaining Progress, and to work with the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government on promoting the initiative andassisting with general communication issues including interaction with those in therelevant target group.Mr. Geraghty reports to the Social Partners on progress made on the AffordableHousing Initiative. Mr. Geraghty’s instructions are set out in the terms of referencein his contract.OngoingAppendix 2: PR contracts awarded by bodies under the aegis of the Department of the TaoiseachInformation Society Commission — Fleishman-Hillard SaundersLength of Contract: October 2002 — December 2004Cost: \121,180Terms of Reference:Instructed by:Status:The Information Society Commission appointed a public relations agency, FHS, toprovide media and communications advice in relation to the development of its workprogramme, including stakeholder engagement with its 13 reports to Governmentand supporting research.Independent Chair of the ISC, Dr. Danny O’Hare, Former President of Dublin CityUniversityCompletedAll Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution — Dónall Ó MaolfabhailLength of Contract: 2002Cost: \6,600Terms of Reference:PR services re publication of Parliament ReportInstructed by:Secretary to the CommitteeStatus:CompletedLength of Contract: 2003Cost: \5,000Terms of Reference:Instructed by:Status:PR services re launch of Report on Government, and oral hearings on PropertyRightsSecretary to the CommitteeCompletedLength of Contract: 2004Cost: \2,500Terms of Reference:PR retainer and fees re launch of Property Rights ReportInstructed by:Secretary to the CommitteeStatus:Completed

357 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 358NESC — O’Herlihy CommunicationsLength of Contract: November 2003Cost: \6,804Terms of Reference:To provide PR services for NESCInstructed by:Director of NESCStatus:OngoingNESF — O’Herlihy CommunicationsLength of Contract:November 2004 (One month)Cost: \1,515Terms of Reference:Launch of NESF Forth Periodic ReportInstructed by:Director of NESFStatus:CompletedNCPP — Caden CommunicationsLength of Contract: May 2003Cost: \83,446Terms of Reference:To provide media and communication advice as requestedInstructed by:Director of NCPPStatus:OngoingNational Forum on Europe(a) Keating & AssociatesLength of Contract: January 2002 — March 2002Cost: \38,143Terms of Reference:Instructed by:Status:Engaged to provide a media strategy and carry out a market Survey on behalf of theNational Forum on EuropeSecretary General of the National Forum on EuropeCompleted(b) Caroline ErskineLength of Contract:2002 — ongoingCost: \125,895Terms of Reference:Engaged on a per diem basis primarily for media relations and communicationsfunctions for the Forum covering regional, national and international mediaorganisations.Instructed by:Director, National Forum on Europe and Deputy Director, National Forum on Europe(and the Chairman of the National Forum on Europe as required)Status: Under contract until June 2005

359 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 360(c) Conor JoyceLength of Contract:2002 — ongoingCost: \82,240Terms of Reference:Engaged on a per diem basis primarily for media relations and communicationsfunctions for the Forum covering regional, national and international mediaorganisations.Instructed by:Director, National Forum on Europe and Deputy Director, National Forum on Europe(and the Chairman of the National Forum on Europe as required)Status: Under contract until February 2005Waste Management.59. Mr. Cuffe asked the Taoiseach the totalweight of waste that his Department produceswithin its offices in the last year for which figuresare available; the breakdown of the weight producedby paper, glass, aluminium and steel cans,textiles, plastics, organic waste, electrical andelectronic equipment, batteries, hazardous wasteand mixed waste respectively; the percentage ofweight in each category which is recycled; and thedetails of any contracts his Department has forthis disposal, reduction or re-use of waste.[5544/05]The Taoiseach: My Department does not havea figure for the total weight of waste disposed ofper year. We have a figure for the quantity ofpaper waste disposed of — the amount in 2004was 104,000 Kg. All paper and cardboard wasteis recycled. Paper waste is disposed of througha private contractor, Leech Papers Limited. Thiscontractor also removes cardboard free of chargefor recycling.Redundant photocopiers are removed by ourcurrent suppliers, Toshiba Ireland, who complywith the EC directive on waste electrical and electronicequipment, WEEE, and the EC directiveon the restriction of the use of certain hazardoussubstances in electrical and electronic equipment,RoHS, on the disposal of photocopiers.During 2004, my Department had three areasof IT hardware disposals. These included: emptytoner cartridges are boxed and collected by acompany called Ergo Services for recycling. Aspart of this arrangement, Ergo Services donate asum for each toner cartridge returned to them forrecycling to The Jack and Jill Foundation charity;hardware that is still useable but not good enoughfor newer applications is made available forreuse. A number of these PCs were disposed of tostaff in my Department, for a nominal fee, whileothers were given, free of charge, to a charitycalled PCs for Africa and to schools-communitygroups; and hardware which could not berecycled-reused was disposed of in 2004 to a companycalled Systems 2000 following a tenderingprocess. This comprised 62 monitors, 42 PCs, 11laptops, 12 printers, 47 keyboards, one scannerand two routers. None of this equipment was ofany further practical use.We are in the process of putting in placearrangements for recycling of cans and plasticbottles.General waste is removed by Dublin CityCouncil. We are continually reviewing the possibilityof increasing the amount of such wastewhich can be disposed of by recycling. Moststationery used by my Department is recycledpaper.Adoption Services.60. Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the circumstances inwhich a person who has been adopted can getinformation about his or her birth name and hisor her natural parents; and if there are plans tomodify these requirements. [5609/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. B. Lenihan): An adopted personwishing to trace natural family should contactthe agency that handled his or her adoption. Ifthe person does not know the name of the agencyinvolved, he or she may contact the AdoptionBoard for advice. The Adoption Board workingwith the various representative groups is currentlyfinalising plans for a contact preferenceregister which will aim to facilitate contactbetween adopted people and their naturalfamilies. This register will initially be establishedon an administrative basis, but it also forms partof the adoption legislation proposals approved byGovernment in December on foot of the adoptionconsultation process.Grant Aid.61. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to the National Disability Federation ofIreland for the years 2003 and 2004; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5552/05]62. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to the Disability Federation of Irelandfor the years 2003 and 2004; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5553/05]64. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to Brainwave for the years 2003 and2004; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5555/05]

361 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 36265. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to Headway Ireland for the years 2003and 2004; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5556/05]66. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to Enable Ireland for the years 2003and 2004; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5557/05]68. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to the National Association for DeafPeople for the years 2003 and 2004; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5560/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): I propose totake Questions Nos. 61, 62, 64 to 66, inclusive,and 68 together.The Health Act 2004 provided for the HealthService Executive, which was established on 1January 2005. Under the Act, the executive hasthe responsibility to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor the provision of funding to voluntaryorganisations. Accordingly, my Department hasrequested the chief officer of the executive’seastern regional area to investigate the mattersraised and reply to the Deputy.63. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to Mental Health Ireland for the years2003 and 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5554/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): Mental HealthIreland received funding in the amount of\814,700 from my Department in 2003. Furtheronce-off grants totalling \110,000 were madeavailable to the organisation by my Departmentin 2004. An additional \15 million revenue fundingwill be made available for the furtherdevelopment of mental health services, includingvoluntary organisations, in 2005.Questions Nos. 64 to 66, inclusive, answeredwith Question No. 61.67. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to the Carers Association for the years2003 and 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5559/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Carers Associationreceived a grant of \899,026 in 2003 and\975,088 in 2004 from the Department of Healthand Children. In addition, funding has been providedto local branches of the Carers Association.The Health Act 2004 provided for the HealthService Executive, which was established on 1January 2005. Under the Act, the executive hasthe responsibility to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor funding to organisations such as the CarersAssociation. My Department has written tothe HSE to reply directly to the Deputy.Question No. 68 answered with QuestionNo. 61.69. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the grant aidadvanced to the National Council for Ageing andOlder People for the years 2003 and 2004; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter.[5561/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The NationalCouncil for Ageing and Older People receivedgrant funding from the Department of Healthand Children of \1.055 million in 2003 and \1.202million in 2004.Hospital Waiting Lists.70. Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when a person(details supplied) in County Clare will be calledto the cardiothoracic unit of the Mater Hospitalin Dublin for further treatment; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5583/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. As the personin question resides in County Clare, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer for theexecutive’s mid-western area to investigate thematter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.Hospitals Building Programme.71. Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children when the buildingof Dingle hospital will commence; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5585/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The question of anew capital development in Dingle is a matter tobe addressed in the context of the Health ServiceExecutive’s national service plan, which will indicateits proposed capital plan for this year. Iexpect this plan will be presented shortly.Health Services.72. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the reason forthe delay in providing grab rails at the home of a

363 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 364[Mr. McGuinness.]person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; ifan occupational therapist’s report is available inthe case; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5594/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for aids andappliances. Accordingly, my Department hasrequested the chief officer for the executive’ssouth eastern area to investigate the matter raisedand to reply directly to the Deputy.73. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the positionregarding hours of home help in the case of aperson (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; andif she will make a statement on the matter.[5595/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage, deliver or arrange to be delivered on itsbehalf, health and personal social services. Thisincludes responsibility for the provision of healthservices in County Kilkenny. Accordingly, myDepartment has requested the chief officer forthe executive’s south eastern area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly to theDeputy.Medical Cards.74. Mr. McCormack asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the positionregarding the review of medical cards for eligiblepersons suffering from long-term illnesses, particularlyin the case of a young person suffering aphysical disability such as cerebral palsy or spinabifida; the number of times that person’s eligibilityfor a medical card is reviewed; the guidelineslaid down for the health boards in thosecases; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5596/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for the assessment of applicationsfor medical cards. The periodic review of eligibilityand the frequency of such reviews are alsomatters for the HSE’s local area to consider anddetermine. However, the HSE takes into accountthe circumstances of each case when setting therenewal dates. Reviews are necessary to ensurethe medical card databases are accurate and thatpublic accountability issues are addressed.On the issue of children with very serious illnesses,an operational group overseeing the medicalcard scheme has been asked to put processesin place that limit the need for frequent reviewsin these cases, where a review would normallyresult in automatic renewal of the medical card.Persons aged 70 years and over have a statutoryentitlement to a medical card since 1 July 2001,otherwise applicants, including those who maysuffer from the diseases mentioned by theDeputy, must apply to the local area of the HSEto have their cases assessed on the basis ofincome and medical need.Under the Health Act 1970, the HSE mayarrange for the supply, without charge, of drugs,medicines and medical and surgical appliances topeople with a specified condition, for the treatmentof that condition through the long-term illnessscheme. The conditions are mental handicap,mental illness — for people under 16 only,phenylketonuria, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida,hydrocephalus, diabetes mellitus, diabetesinsipidus, haemophilia, cerebral palsy, epilepsy,multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophies, parkinsonism,conditions arising from thalidomide andacute leukaemia. Parkinsonism, acute leukaemia,muscular dystrophies and multiple sclerosis wereadded to the scheme in 1975. The LTI does notcover GP fees or hospital co-payments.Chiropody Services.75. Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if she will introduce astatutory scheme for the provision of chiropodyservices under the medical card. [5608/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for chiropody services. The provisionof chiropody services is a matter for thelocal areas of the HSE. There is no statutory obligationto provide these services; but nationally, avariety of arrangements are in place for the provisionof chiropody services; however, there areno plans presently to introduce a statutoryscheme. It was discovered that chiropodists in theformer ERHA area were imposing additionalcharges for their services on medical card holders.My Department informed the authority that itwas inappropriate to impose such charges and itrecently wrote to the HSE with a view to gettingan early resolution to this matter.Mental Health Services.76. Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the position in relation

365 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 366to the opening of a psychiatric unit in BeaumontHospital; when the proposal for this unit was firstinitiated; and when it is likely that it will be fullyopen. [5616/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofmental health services. Accordingly, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer for the HSEeastern regional area to investigate the matterraised and to reply directly to the Deputy.77. Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the flaws which havebeen identified by the inspector of mentalhospitals in respect of the facilities at St. Ita’s,Portrane; if her Department has agreed with thehealth board a critical path for the modernisationand upgrading of these facilities; if she plans tointervene to speed up the planning process inview of the lengthy delay in getting to grips withproblems which have been identified over a longperiod. [5617/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The provision offacilities at St. Ita’s Hospital, Portrane, is a matterto be addressed in the context of the Health ServiceExecutive’s national service plan, which willindicate its proposed capital plan for this year. Iexpect this plan will be presented shortly.Medical Cards.78. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaisteand Minister for Health and Children the numberof persons covered by a medical card at each ofthe dates 1 January 1997, 1 June 2002, 30 September2004, 31 January 2005; and for the mostrecent date available. [5636/05]87. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaisteand Minister for Health and Children the numberof persons in each county covered by a medicalcard on 1 January 1997, 1 June 2002, 30 September2004 and 31 January 2005; and thenumber at the latest date for which figures areavailable. [5664/05]106. Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the number ofpersons in County Roscommon covered by amedical card on 1 January 2003, 2004 and 2005respectively; and if she will make a statement onthe matter. [5698/05]107. Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the number ofpersons in County Leitrim covered by a medicalcard on 1 January 2003, 2004 and 2005 respectively;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5699/05]108. Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the number ofpersons in County Longford covered by a medicalcard on 1 January 2003, 2004 and 2005 respectively;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5700/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): I propose to take Questions Nos.78, 87 and 106 to 108, inclusive, together.The details requested by the Deputies are setout in the following table:County January 97 June 02 January 03 January 04 September 04 January 05 February 05Dublin 282,872 291,310 277,378 271,837 273,582 272,855 271,892Kildare 35,004 39,505 37,973 36,967 37,391 36,934 36,547Wicklow 35,068 30,211 28,918 27,982 27,804 27,502 27,411Laois 21,518 18,375 17,926 17,318 17,311 17,095 17,327Longford 12,957 12,647 12,499 12,263 12,363 12,386 12,532Offaly 23,634 19,746 19,303 18,974 19,137 19,101 19,359Westmeath 22,337 20,887 20,929 20,675 21,068 21,082 21,456Clare 30,962 31,133 29,620 30,438 30,887 30,672 30,623Limerick 55,177 52,027 50,370 49,212 49,657 49,629 49,227Tipperary N 20,822 20,098 19,105 19,135 19,061 18,918 18,921Cavan 22,030 19,216 19,124 18,768 18,400 18,564 18,463Louth 39,821 39,075 37,486 35,942 34,746 34,493 34,437Meath 38,645 32,008 30,550 31,517 30,440 29,867 29,592Monaghan 22,497 17,993 17,285 16,632 16,462 16,308 16,249Donegal 69,524 66,787 65,734 66,852 67,618 67,188 67,295Leitrim 12,430 11,526 11,476 11,264 11,344 11,163 11,186Sligo 20,615 20,270 19,714 19,629 19,483 19,442 19,222Carlow 17,061 16,365 16,008 15,602 15,455 15,190 15,242Kilkenny 22,159 20,567 20,152 19,756 19,708 19,473 19,534Tipperary S 27,309 29,064 28,607 28,720 28,459 28,336 28,304Waterford 39,508 35,775 34,955 34,716 34,785 34,925 34,696

367 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 368County January 97 June 02 January 03 January 04 September 04 January 05 February 05Wexford 40,799 39,693 38,878 39,318 39,276 38,986 38,929Cork 139,370 135,619 133,236 131,669 131,273 130,863 130,869Kerry 46,993 44,504 43,189 42,005 41,428 40,915 40,855Galway 73,724 70,884 68,293 66,704 66,432 65,684 65,561Mayo 55,910 51,052 49,660 48,859 47,635 47,493 47,281Roscommon 23,638 20,759 20,376 20,154 19,901 20,019 19,612Total 1,252,384 1,207,096 1,168,745 1,152,908 1,151,106 1,145,083 1,142,61879. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if a decisiontaken in December 2004 not to issue a medicalcard to a person (details supplied) in CountyKilkenny will be reviewed; if consideration willbe given to this persons serious medical conditionand need for ongoing treatment and daily medication;and if a decision in this case will beexpedited. [5643/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for the assessment of applicationsfor medical cards. Accordingly, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer of the executive’ssouth eastern area to investigate the matter raisedand to reply directly to the Deputy.Health Services.80. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if home helpwill be arranged in the case of a person (detailssupplied) in County Kilkenny. [5644/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage, deliver or arrange to be delivered on itsbehalf, health and personal social services. Thisincludes responsibility for the provision of healthservices in County Kilkenny. Accordingly, myDepartment has requested the chief officer forthe executive’s south eastern area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply direct to theDeputy.Smoking Ban.81. Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if research has beenor will be carried out or into the effect of thesmoking ban on consumer behaviour, the hospitalityindustry and tourism; the way in which theban has affected businesses and the sales of cigarettes,alcohol, food and beverages; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5645/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): On 29 March 2004most enclosed places of work became smoke free.The primary purpose of this measure is to protectthe health of workers and the public fromexposure to toxic second hand tobacco smoke.The Deputy will appreciate that decisions inregard to workplace safety are not influenced byconsiderations relating to their effect on trade. Asurvey on the smoke free workplace measurecommissioned by my Department was carried outby a market survey company and published inAugust 2004. The figures show that of those surveyed82% support the smoke free at workmeasure; 90% agreed that going smoke free is ofbenefit to workers; 82% agreed that it benefitseveryone in public places; and 95% agreed thatthe legislation is a positive health measure.The survey reported a positive response tosocialising in smoke free hospitality venues witha majority of people confirming that the newsmoke free legislation improved their experiencein pubs, 70%, and restaurants, 78%. More thanhalf of respondents, 53%, indicated that theywould be more inclined to eat in a pub since 29March 2004. Research carried out by FáilteIreland, the National Tourism DevelopmentAuthority, in respect of 2004 shows that 97% ofvisitors would recommend a holiday in Ireland.With regard to the smoke free measure, theresearch showed 77% of overseas visitors were infavour with 26% saying they would be morelikely to holiday in Ireland as a result and 5%saying they would be less likely to holiday here.With regard to the impact of the smoke freeworkplace measure on sales of cigarettes, alcohol,food and beverages my Department has not commissionedany research. However, provisional figuresfrom the Revenue Commissioners indicatedthat sales of cigarettes have decreased by 10% in2004 as compared to 2003. The media havereported that beer sales in licensed premises havedeclined in recent years and this is ongoing.However this is being attributed to a number offactors and not only the introduction of thesmoke free measure.Departmental Advertising.82. Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children further toParliamentary Question No. 89 of 10 February2005, the amount spent on the national publicawareness campaign aimed at persons in the 18

369 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 370to 35 age group which, since 2000 to date, hasbeen developed to increase awareness of safe sexand sexually transmitted infection; if research hasbeen carried out on the effectiveness of that campaign;if she intends to commission such research;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5646/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The amount spenton the sexual health campaign referred to by theDeputy is as follows:YearTotal Funding\2000 106,0002001 112,0002002 164,0002003 193,0002004 165,000An evaluation of the programme was undertakenin 2000 which informed the development of themost recent campaign. In addition, throughoutthe development phase, individual campaignmessages are focus group tested with the targetpopulations. Plans for an evaluation of the currentapproach are under way and it is expectedthat this evaluation will take place in May 2005.Youth Health Programme.83. Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the amount spenteach year since 2000 to date on the national youthhealth programme; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5647/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): Funding of thenational youth health programme since 2000,including a specific allocation for an alcohol educationinitiative funded by the health promotionunit in 2000 and 2001, is as follows:Year Total Funding — Department of Health and Department of Education and OtherEuro Children Science2000 194,916 106,689 60,947 27,2802001 222,922 92,903 71,105 58,9142002 234,535 72,863 75,015 86,6572003 212,105 75,391 75,765 60,9492004 222,106 75,391 78,796 67,920In recent weeks the national youth health programmelaunched a new strategic action plan for2005-07. Progress on implementing this plan isunder way.Housing Aid for the Elderly.84. Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the position of the applicationfor special housing aid for the elderly fora person (details supplied) in County Wexford;when the application will be processed or workscommence; and if she will make a statement onthe matter. [5661/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofthe housing aid scheme in County Wexford onbehalf of the Department of the Environment,Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly,my Department has requested the chief officerfor the executive’s south eastern area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly tothe Deputy.85. Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the position of the applicationfor special housing aid for the elderly fora person (details supplied) in County Wexford;when the Health Service Executive will respondto Parliamentary Question No. 206 of 2 February2005; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5662/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): ParliamentaryQuestion No. 206 was referred to the HSE southeastern area on 31 January 2005. My Departmentmade inquiries of the HSE south eastern area andhas been informed that the matter is being investigated.A reply should issue shortly to theDeputy.Mental Health Services.86. Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the details of organisationsto which her Minister of State referred inresponse to Parliamentary Question No. 4 of 10February 2005; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5663/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): I have wideranging discussions with many organisations concerningmany sensitive issues in the mental healtharea. Many of these discussions are confidentialand I am not at liberty to divulge the details.Question No. 87 answered with QuestionNo. 78.

371 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 372Medical Cards.88. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaisteand Minister for Health and Children the numberof persons over the age of 70 in possession of amedical card who were or are at the higher capitationand at the lower capitation rate on 1 June2002, 30 September 2004 and 31 January 2005;and the number at the latest date for which figuresare available. [5665/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The number of persons 70 yearsand over in possession of a medical card whowere or are at the higher capitation and at thelower capitation rate is set out in the followingtable:Date No. of persons 70 years and No. of persons 70 years and Total no. of persons 70 yearsover at higher capitation rate over at lower capitation rate and over covered on GMSJune 2002 74,868 249,474 324,342September 2004 111,065 203,532 314,597January 2005 113,723 202,051 315,77489. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaisteand Minister for Health and Children the proportionof medical cards in circulation which providemedical cover for more than one person; theaverage number of persons in such cases; the proportionof medical cards currently in circulationwhich provide medical cover for only one person,that is, the card-holder; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5666/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): Information from the Health ServicesExecutive shared services’ primary reimbursementservice for February 2005 indicatesthat 766,342 cards are in circulation and that thenumber of eligible persons covered is 1,142,618,or 1.49 persons per card. A more detailed breakdownof the total figure, in the manner specifiedin the question, has been requested from the HSEand will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon aspossible.Services for People with Disabilities.90. Mr. Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if she has recentlymet the Coeliac Society of Ireland; and the fundingarrangements planned for its work. [5670/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): I have not met the Coeliac Societyof Ireland. However, the question of funding forthe society is receiving early consideration bymy Department.Ambulance Service.91. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the cost per returnjourney of a privately hired ambulance from OurLady’s Hospital, Navan to Dublin and otherexternal hospitals; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5671/05]92. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the likely timeframefor the remaining stages of the construction of anew ambulance base in Monaghan town, currentlyat design stage; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5672/05]93. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the cost per returnjourney of a privately hired ambulance from theLouth Hospital, Dundalk to Dublin and otherexternal hospitals; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5673/05]94. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the cost per returnjourney of a privately hired ambulance from OurLady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda to Dublinand other external hospitals; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5674/05]95. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the cost per returnjourney of a privately hired ambulance fromMonaghan General Hospital to Dublin and otherexternal hospitals; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5675/05]96. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the cost per returnjourney of a privately hired ambulance fromCavan General Hospital to Dublin and otherexternal hospitals; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5676/05]97. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the expenditure onprivately hired ambulance journeys betweenCounty Louth and Dublin and other externalhospitals in 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5677/05]98. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the expenditure onprivately hired ambulance journeys between theNorth Eastern Health Board area and Dublin andother external hospitals in 2004; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5678/05]99. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the expenditure onprivately hired ambulance journeys betweenCounty Cavan and Dublin and other externalhospitals in 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5679/05]100. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the expenditureon privately hired ambulance journeys between

373 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 374County Monaghan and Dublin and other externalhospitals in 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5680/05]101. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the expenditureon privately hired ambulance journeys betweenCounty Meath and Dublin and other externalhospitals in 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5681/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): I propose to take Questions Nos.91 to 101, inclusive, together.The Health Act 2004 provided for the HealthService Executive, which was established on 1January 2005. Under the Act, the executive hasthe responsibility to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor the provision of ambulance services.Accordingly, my Department has requested thechief officer for the executive’s north eastern areato investigate the matters raised and to replydirectly to the Deputy.Hospital Services.102. Caoimhghín ÓCaoláin asked the Tánaisteand Minister for Health and Children if her attentionhas been drawn to the fact that it is impossiblefor electronic files on patients to be sharedbetween hospitals due to the fact that the primaryidentifier on a patient’s file is a number assignedto him or her by the hospital, which makes crossreferencingimpossible, so that if a patient is subsequentlytreated at a different hospital there isno efficient way to obtain his or her history; herviews on the establishment of a system wherebythe primary identifier would be the PPS numberor, in the case of tourists, the passport number; ifshe will take steps to have such a systemimplemented; and if she will make a statement onthe matter. [5684/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The health information strategypublished in 2004 provides for the introduction ofa system of unique identification of health serviceclients and patients which will be based on thePPS number. This will be critical to the reliableidentification of patients which is an essentialelement in the safe transfer of electronic patientrecords between health care providers. The questionof the identification of patients who are notIrish residents will be considered in detail as partof the process. It will also be necessary to ensurethat any system of transfer of electronic patientinformation between health care providers hasinbuilt safeguards regarding the appropriatenessof that transfer which will protect the privacy andconfidentiality of that information.Any necessary legislative or regulatory supportfor the implementation of the PPS number in thehealth service will be considered in the context oflegislation which my Department will be draftingto address any legal issues arising in the contextof the implementation of the health informationstrategy.103. Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if her attention hasbeen drawn to the fact that the NationalMaternity Hospital, Holles Street is not acceptingpublic or semi-private cases for the next fewmonths; if her attention has further been drawnto the fact that this is causing distress for someexpectant mothers who have given birth to theirother children in this hospital; the action she willtake to resolve this problem; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5688/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, HSE, which wasestablished on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services.Services at the National Maternity Hospital areprovided under an arrangement with the executive.My Department has requested the chiefofficer for the executive’s eastern regional areato examine the issues raised and to reply to theDeputy directly.The HSE is aware of the challenges facing theNational Maternity Hospital in meeting demandand will continue to work with the three Dublinmaternity hospitals to jointly address the issue ofhow best to manage the provision of maternityservices throughout 2005.Housing Aid for the Elderly.104. Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when work will becompleted to a house (details supplied) in CountyLimerick under the special housing aid for theelderly scheme. [5694/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofthe housing aid scheme in County Limerick, onbehalf of the Department of the Environment,Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly,my Department has requested the chief officerfor the executive’s mid-western area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly tothe Deputy.105. Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when work will becompleted under the special housing aid for theelderly scheme for a person (details supplied) inCounty Limerick. [5695/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act

375 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 376[Mr. S. Power.]2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofthe housing aid scheme in County Limerick, onbehalf of the Department of the Environment,Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly,my Department has requested the chief officerfor the executive’s mid-western area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly tothe Deputy.Questions Nos. 106 to 108, inclusive, answeredwith Question No. 78.Health Services.109. Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the progress madeby her Department in reviewing the impact of thediabetes shared care pilot scheme in northDublin; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5710/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for diabetic services. Accordingly,my Department has requested the chief officerfor the executive’s eastern regional area to investigatethe matter raised and reply directly to theDeputy.110. Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the action sheproposes to take to rectify a phenomenondescribed as dangerously inadequate staffing andfacilities that are seriously unsatisfactory, in viewof the external report launched on 7 February2005 by the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Irelandconfirming that Ireland has the highest incidenceof cystic fibrosis in the world. [5711/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Service Executive,which has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services, recently metthe Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland and hasagreed to its request to establish a working groupto consider the recommendations in the report.The report provides an assessment of need forcurrent and future cystic fibrosis patients andmakes a number of recommendations with regardto numbers and types of staff appropriate for amodern multidisciplinary cystic fibrosis service.The report concludes that in the future it will beessential to base cystic fibrosis care in fewer unitsof a more significant size in order to sustainviable staffing levels and to ensure that staff havea sufficient workload to enable them to maintaintheir skills level.I understand the Health Service Executive andSt. Vincent’s Hospital, which is designated as thenational adult cystic fibrosis centre, are pursuingproposals to improve the physical infrastructureto support the highly professional treatment andcare services provided there at present.Hospital Charges.111. Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the amountspent by publicly funded hospitals in the employmentof debt collectors in the years 2003 and2004; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5712/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. The informationrequested by the Deputy is not routinelycollected by my Department. Therefore, myDepartment has requested the chief officer ofeach of the executive’s regional areas to replydirectly to the Deputy with the informationrequested.Health Service Staff.112. Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when funding willbe provided to sanction staff for the remaining 20beds at Birr community nursing unit; the numberof extra staff which will be sanctioned; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5713/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive is required to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. My Departmentis awaiting the 2005 service plan from theHeath Service Executive. In the interim, myDepartment has asked the chief officer of theHealth Service Executive’s midland regional areato investigate the position regarding this projectand to reply directly to the Deputy.Health Services.113. Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when a person (detailssupplied) in County Mayo will be called for a psychologyappointment. [5726/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility to

377 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 378manage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofmental health services. Accordingly, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer for theexecutive’s western regional area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly to theDeputy.Care of the Elderly.114. Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the number of personsemployed as home attendants in the Kildare andwest Wicklow areas in the past three years; andif she will make a statement on the matter.[5727/05]115. Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the number of personsemployed as home help assistants in the Kildareand west Wicklow areas in the past three years;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5728/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): I propose to takeQuestions Nos. 114 and 115 together.The Health Act 2004 provided for the HealthService Executive, which was established on 1January 2005. Under the Act, the executive hasthe responsibility to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor the provision of home help service.Accordingly, my Department has requested thechief officer for the executive’s eastern regionalarea to investigate the matters raised and to replydirectly to the Deputy.116. Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the number of personsin receipt of home help assistance in the Kildareand west Wicklow areas in the past three years;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5729/05]117. Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the amount of fundingfrom her Department regarding the home helpassistance programme in Kildare and west Wicklowin the past three years; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5730/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): I propose to takeQuestions Nos. 116 and 117 together.The Health Act 2004 provided for the HealthService Executive, which was established on 1January 2005. Under the Act, the executive hasthe responsibility to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor the provision of home help service.Accordingly, my Department has requested thechief officer for the executive’s eastern regionalarea to investigate the matters raised and to replydirectly to the Deputy.118. Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the reason the ex gratiascheme in respect of payment deducted fromthose in publicly funded long stay care facilities isrestricted to those who were alive on 9 December2004; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5742/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): An ex gratia payment scheme wasinitiated by the Government as a goodwill gesture,as it believed that some form of repaymentshould be made to those with full eligibility whohad paid long stay charges. Therefore, a decisionwas taken to make repayments to people with fulleligibility who had paid charges and who werealive on 9 December 2004, the date on which thehealth agencies were instructed to cease charging.My Department is currently studying theSupreme Court judgment in detail and will takeon board all the consequences for policy and lawarising from the judgment. The details of a repaymentscheme to address the situation followingthe Supreme Court decision are currently beingfinalised.Medical Cards.119. Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the reason a person(details supplied) in Dublin 9 has not beengranted the medical card; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5743/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for the assessment of applicationsfor medical cards. Accordingly, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer for the executive’seastern regional area to investigate the matterraised and to reply directly to the Deputy.Health Services.120. Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if she will respond to theconcerns raised in correspondence (detailssupplied) and address the issues raised therein;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5755/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The nursing homesubvention scheme was introduced in 1993 withthe intention of financially helping those whochose private nursing home care over public longstay care. It was intended to help with the costsof this care for people who could not afford topay the full fees involved, but it was never envis-

379 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 380[Mr. S. Power.]aged the scheme would cover the full cost of care.To this end a means test was employed to ensurethat the available funds were allocated to thosemost in need. Some \5 million was allocated tothe scheme in 1993 and that figure has risen tomore than \120 million in 2005.There are currently three rates of subventionpayable under the regulations, that is \114.30,\152.40 and \190.50 for the three levels of dependency,medium, high and maximum. The aboverates, which include a 25% increase from April2001, were set by the Nursing Homes(Subvention) Regulations 1993.The Health Act 2004 provided for the HealthService Executive, which was established on 1January 2005. Under the Act, the executive hasthe responsibility to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor applications for nursing homes subvention.Accordingly, my Department has requestedthe chief officer for the executive’s easternregional area to investigate the matter raised andto reply directly to the Deputy.Services for People with Disabilities.121. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if the parentsof autistic children had any input into the reviewof services available to persons with autism beingconducted by the South Eastern Health Board,SEHB; if a draft report will be discussed withgroups representing parents of autistic children inthe counties concerned; if completion of thereport will be expedited; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5774/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act,2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January, 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver or arrange to be delivered onits behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for conducting areview of services available to persons withautism. Accordingly, my Department hasrequested the chief officer of the Executive’ssouth eastern area to investigate the matter raisedand to reply directly to the Deputy.Health Services.122. Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the situation withregard to orthodontic treatment in the mid westregion; if she will deal with the huge waiting listfor children in the mid west region; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5844/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, HSE, which wasestablished on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for orthodontic services. I ampleased to advise the Deputy that a number ofmeasures have been adopted to improve orthodonticservices in the HSE mid-western area andon a national basis.The grade of specialist in orthodontics has beencreated in the orthodontic service. In 2003, myDepartment and the former health boards fundednineteen dentists from various health board areasfor specialist in orthodontics qualifications attraining programmes in Ireland and at three separateuniversities in the United Kingdom. Thesenineteen trainees for the public orthodontic serviceinclude six dentists who successfully completedtheir training in September 2004 and havetaken up duties with the HSE. These measureswill complement the other structural changesbeing introduced into the orthodontic service,including the creation of an auxiliary grade oforthodontic therapist to work in the orthodonticarea.Furthermore, the commitment of the Departmentto training development is manifested in thefunding provided to both the training of specialistclinical staff and the recruitment of a professorin orthodontics for the Cork dental school. Thisappointment at the school will facilitate thedevelopment of an approved training programmeleading to specialist qualification in orthodontics.My Department has given approval in principleto a proposal to further substantially improvetraining facilities for orthodontics at the school,which will ultimately support an enhanced teachingand treatment service to the wider region,including the HSE mid-western area, under theleadership of the professor of orthodontics.Special Educational Needs.123. Mr. Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if her attention hasbeen drawn to the fact that no further funding isavailable for a special school (details supplied) inCounty Limerick for autistic children; if she willreview the situation with a view to providingfunding; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5850/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act,2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January, 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision offunding. Accordingly my Department hasrequested the chief officer for the executive’smid-western area to investigate the matter raisedand to reply directly to the Deputy.Long-Term Illness Scheme.124. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and

381 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 382Minister for Health and Children if and when shewill include Crohn’s disease in the list of illnessescovered under the long term illness scheme; andif she will make a statement on the matter.[5851/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): Under the 1970 Health Act, theHealth Service Executive may arrange for thesupply, without charge, of drugs, medicines andmedical and surgical appliances to people with aspecified condition, for the treatment of that conditionthrough the long term illness scheme, LTI.The conditions are: mental handicap, mental illness,for people under 16 only, phenylketonuria,cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, hydrocephalus, diabetesmellitus, diabetes insipidus, haemophilia,cerebral palsy, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, musculardystrophies, parkinsonism, conditions arisingfrom thalidomide and acute leukaemia. Parkinsonism,acute leukaemia, muscular dystrophiesand multiple sclerosis were added to the schemein 1975. The LTI does not cover GP fees orhospital co-payments.Prior to 1971, there was inadequate provisionfor assistance to people with large ongoing medicalexpenses. The purpose of the LTI scheme wasto protect patients with a specified condition fromexcessive drug costs, by providing free drugs andmedicines to treat that condition only. Followingthe establishment of the GMS scheme in 1971,to provide free treatment for those who cannot,without undue hardship, arrange to provide it forthemselves and their dependants, various co-paymentschemes have been introduced to provideassistance towards the cost of approved drugs andmedicines for non-medical card holders with significantongoing medical expenses, withoutrestriction to the treatment of a particular condition.Since 1999, non-medical card holders andpeople with conditions not covered under the LTIhave been able to use the drugs payment scheme,DPS. Under this scheme, no individual or familyunit pays more than \85 per calendar monthtowards the cost of approved prescribedmedicines.In light of the protection from excessive drugcosts provided by the GMS and DPS schemes,there are no plans to amend the list of eligibleconditions under the LTI.Hospitals Building Programme.125. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the timeframefor the provision of new purpose built unitswithin the grounds of St. Brendan’s Hospital,intended to house the long-term psychiatricpatients currently housed in the assessment unitof the St. Brendan’s facility; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5852/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofmental health services. Accordingly, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer for theHealth Service Executive eastern regional area toinvestigate the matter raised and to reply directlyto the Deputy.Water Fluoridation.126. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if, in view ofthe fact that her Department recently expressedconcern at being outfoxed by dental care providersin relation to charges, her attention hasbeen drawn to the fact that the professional bodyof most practising dentists, the Irish DentalAssociation, has no official opinion on fluoridation,whereas the Dental Health Foundation,which is Government-funded, makes numerousstatements on its website suggesting that waterfluoridation is essential to good oral health; theamount of public moneys being spent by the DentalHealth Foundation in promoting this policy,in view of the fact that virtually every other EUcountry is at variance with the foundation’s unreservedsupport for water fluoridation; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5868/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The forum on fluoridation wasestablished to carry out a review of the fluoridationof public water supplies in Ireland. Theforum consisted of people with expert knowledgespanning the areas of public health, biochemistry,dental health, bone health, food safety, environmentalprotection, ethics, water quality, healthpromotion and representatives from the consumerand environmental areas. The forum tookan evidence based approach to its examination ofwater fluoridation. The forum produced a comprehensiveand conclusive report which itpresented in 2002. In its report the forum set outa number of conclusions and made a number ofrecommendations with respect to the fluoridationof public piped water supplies in Ireland. Themain conclusion reached by the forum was thatthe fluoridation of public water supplies shouldcontinue as a public health measure. The forumalso recommended the establishment of an expertbody to implement the forum’s recommendations.The Irish expert body on fluorides and healthheld its inaugural meeting in April 2004. Theterms of reference of the expert body are tooversee the implementation of the recommendationsof the forum on fluoridation; to advise theMinister and evaluate ongoing research — includingnew emerging issues — on all aspects of fluorideand its delivery methods as an establishedhealth technology and as required; to report tothe Minister on matters of concern at his or herrequest or on its own initiative. The expert bodywill oversee the implementation of the wide-rang-

383 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 384[Ms Harney.]ing recommendations of the forum and advise meon all aspects of fluoride in the future.The Dental Health Foundation was establishedmore than 20 years ago as a charitable trust dedicatedto raising the profile of oral health inIreland. Its establishment was initiated by thedental profession with the agreement and supportof the Department of Health. The foundationplays an important role in facilitating and supportingthe promotion of oral health in line withthe Department’s 1994 dental health action plan.It works closely with the Department’s healthpromotion unit, providing a focus for oral healthwithin the wider context of health promotion inIreland. In 2004, my Department provided fundingof \120,500 to the Dental Health Foundationin its role providing the secretariat for the Irishexpert body on fluorides and health.Grant Payments.127. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the reason thehome and lands of a person (details supplied) inCounty Monaghan, which the Health ServiceExecutive valued at \60,000, were assessed inconsidering this person’s application for a subventiontop up grant, when the appropriate thresholdfor means testing is \75,000; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5869/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage, deliver or arrange to be delivered on itsbehalf, health and personal social services. Thisincludes responsibility for the provision of healthservices in County Monaghan. Accordingly, myDepartment has requested the chief officer forthe executive’s north eastern area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly to theDeputy.Hospital Services.128. Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when a person (detailssupplied) in County Mayo will be called for anophthalmic procedure at Galway RegionalHospital. [5870/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for the provision of services atGalway Regional Hospital. Accordingly, myDepartment has requested the chief officer forthe executive’s western area to investigate thematter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.Health Service Reform.129. Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the status of theHanly report now that she has wound up theHanly group; and if she will make a statement onthe matter. [5873/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): I regard the report of the nationaltask force on medical staffing as a significant contributionto the development of acute hospitalsservices and to the organisation of medicalstaffing.The report makes important proposals forreducing the working hours of non-consultanthospital doctors, NCHDs, in line with the Europeanworking time directive. It highlights theneed to implement changes in medical staffing toensure safety and quality of patient care and toreduce significantly the unacceptably long workinghours of NCHDs.The Hanly report recommends a significantincrease in the total number of consultants, workingin a “consultant provided”, team basedsystem, so that patients can receive faster accessto senior clinical decision making. The report alsodeals with medical education and training withparticular reference to the changes that will beneeded in the context of a 48-hour working forNCHDs.Regarding the organisation of hospital services,I consider that the report proposes an appropriateway forward in terms of regional self-sufficiency,investment in hospital services and theorganisation of those services around hospitalnetworks. In line with these recommendations, Iwill continue the Government’s planned investmentin new hospital facilities and additional consultantposts. This approach will be to the benefitof all patients.The national hospitals office is best placed tofurther the recommendations of the Hanly reportregarding hospital services. While the acutehospitals review group which was to carry out thiswork will not now proceed, Mr. David Hanly whochaired the report of the national task force onmedical staffing will continue to be available foradvice on the reform process.Hospitals Building Programme.130. Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when the upgradeof Ennis General Hospital will commence; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter.[5874/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive, which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive is required to manage and deliver, orarrange to be delivered on its behalf, health andpersonal social services. This includes responsibilityfor facilities at the Mid Western RegionalHospital, Ennis. An outline development control

385 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 386plan for the hospital has been prepared and it wasendorsed by the Mid Western Health Board inDecember 2004. This is now a matter for considerationby the Health Service Executive in thecontext of the capital investment framework 2005to 2009.Birth Certificates.131. Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the procedure for amother wishing to remove the name of a personfrom their child’s birth certificate, with this person’sconsent; and to put the true father’s nameon it; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5875/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Births and Deaths RegistrationActs 1863 to 1996 include a provision for the correctionof an error of fact or substance in a registerof births, which allows for a correction on footof a statutory declaration setting out the errors inthe entry in question. These provisions may beused to remove erroneous details from a birthentry. The Acts also include provisions for theentry of paternity details in the register of birthsin respect of children born to parents who are notmarried to each other.The Status of Children Act 1987 amendedsection 7 of the Births and Deaths RegistrationAct (Ireland) 1880 by the substitution of sections7 and 7A. Section 7A sets out the procedures forthe re-registration of a birth to include paternitydetails where the birth was initially registeredwithout such details being included. As it wouldappear from the information furnished that a manhas been named in the entry in the register ofbirths, the provisions of section 7A may not beavailed of in the case referred to by the Deputy.However, if the Deputy were to furnish detailsto an tArd-Chláraitheoir, including details of theputative father, he could investigate to see whatmeasures, if any, can be taken to resolve thematter, either under current legislation or theprovisions of the relevant parts of the Civil RegistrationAct 2004, which are due to be commencedin the near future.Hospital Staff.132. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the findings ofthe task force established in April 2002 by herpredecessor to examine the incidence of assaulton psychiatric nurses; when she proposes toimplement these findings; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5916/05]133. Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children when it is proposedto introduce a no faults compensationpackage for psychiatric nurses who are injured asa result of assaults at work; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5917/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): I propose to take Questions Nos.132 and 133 together.The report of the task force on assaults onpsychiatric nurses was completed in 2003. Inaddition to quantifying the level of assaults andmaking recommendations on prevention, thereport contained proposals for a scheme of compensationfor psychiatric nurses who have beenseriously injured as a result of an assault by apatient in the workplace.Government approval would be required forthe introduction of any new State compensationscheme, which would be additional to the existingserious physical assaults scheme, last revised in2001. The serious physical assaults scheme providesenhanced sick pay arrangements for nursesassaulted at work. Medical expenses are alsorefunded. In circumstances where a nurse is certifiedpermanently unfit to resume duty he or shemay be paid five sixths of full salary untilretirement.In late 2003 a draft memorandum for Governmentwas circulated and during the consultationprocess, complex legal and financial issuesemerged on aspects of the scheme proposed bythe task force and their implications for thehealth service and the wider public service.In March 2004 the Psychiatric Nurses’ Associationand SIPTU were advised that particularconcerns had been raised concerning the proposedscheme. In the meantime officials from myDepartment have been in consultation with theDepartment of Finance and the office of theAttorney General. I am sure the Deputy willappreciate that the issues involved are very complexand have far reaching implications for thehealth service. I expect to be in a position to providemore definite information shortly.Health Services.134. Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children when a suitable andproper care centre involving one-to-one supervisionwill be made available to a person (detailssupplied) in County Limerick. [5918/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. T. O’Malley): The Health Act,2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January, 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has responsibility to manageand deliver or arrange to be delivered on itsbehalf, health and personal social services. Thisincludes responsibility for the provision of residentialplaces. Accordingly, my Department hasrequested the chief officer of the executive’s midwesternarea to investigate the matter raised andto reply directly to the Deputy.Care of the Elderly.135. Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the estimate ofmoney owed to persons or their families from

387 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 388[Mr. Hayes.]Tipperary south as a result of the Supreme Courtdecision of 16 February 2005, that the Health Billis unconstitutional; if there is no current estimatefor County Tipperary, when an estimate will beavailable; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5925/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): My Department is currently studyingthe Supreme Court judgment in detail andwill take on board all the consequences for policyand law arising from the judgment. The detailsof a repayment scheme to address the situationfollowing the Supreme Court decision are currentlybeing finalised and it is only after this thatit would be possible to calculate the money owedby specific area.Nursing Home Charges.136. Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the estimate ofmoney owed to persons or their families fromCounty Clare as a result of the Supreme Courtdecision of 16 February 2005, that the Health Billis unconstitutional; if there is no current estimatefor County Clare, when one will be available.[5926/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): My Department is studying theSupreme Court judgment in detail and will takeon board all the consequences for policy and lawarising from it. The details of a repaymentscheme to address the situation following theSupreme Court decision is being finalised and itis only following this that it would be possible tocalculate the money owed by specific area.137. Mr. Kelleher asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children if she will consideraccessing the national pensions reserve fund on aonce-off basis to fund the cost of reimbursementof the nursing home charges on foot of theSupreme Court’s decision of 16 February 2005that such charges were unlawful; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5928/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The national pensions reserve fundwas established for the purpose of meeting asmuch as possible of the cost to the Exchequer ofsocial welfare pensions and public service pensionsto be paid from the year 2025 until the year2055, or such other subsequent years as may bespecified, as set out in section 18(1) of theNational Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000.Section 20(1) of the Act states “the Commissionshall not make any payment from the fund to theExchequer before the year 2025”.My Department is studying the Supreme Courtjudgment in detail and will take on board all theconsequences for policy and law arising from it.The cost of reimbursement will be met from theVote for the health service Estimate. A SupplementaryEstimate to cover the costs will bemoved in due course.Health Services.138. Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if her attentionhas been drawn to the dissatisfaction amongmany members of the public with the manner acompany (details supplied) executes its afterhoursmedical doctor service in the north Galwayarea, in parishes (details supplied) in CountyGalway and other areas; if much Exchequer fundingwas invested in the start-up operation of thiscompany; the ongoing cost of this company in2002, 2003 and 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5938/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): Westdoc is the out-of-hours generalpractitioner-led service which operates on a partnershipbasis between the participating GPs andthe Health Service Executive, western area. Theservice has been operating since December 2002and to date it has received more than 95,000 patientcontacts. Westdoc has 107 general practitionersproviding service to public and privatepatients in counties Galway, Mayo andRoscommon.A patient satisfaction survey, independentlyconducted by the National University of Ireland,Galway in July 2003, found that patient satisfactionwith the Westdoc service is very high. Afurther patient satisfaction survey will be conductedin 2005. The funding provided to the HealthService Executive’s western region for the expansionof out of hours co-operatives since 2000 iscontained in the following table.2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Total\0.076 million \0.159 million \2.059 million \2.575 million \2.7536 million \3.5536 million \11.176 millionThis dedicated funding does not include fees paidto participating general practitioners.During a recent visit to Galway, I met a delegationfrom east Galway who expressed concernsabout the operation of Westdoc in theirarea. In particular they raised issues about theconsiderable distances that some people wererequired to travel to access a doctor. My Departmenthas requested the chief officer for theHealth Service Executive, western area to investigatethe matter raised and to reply directly tothe Deputy.Health Service Staff.139. Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the number of staffand the number of clerical administrative staff in

389 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 390each health board area for each year from1995. [5963/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The latest available information isfor end-September 2004. On this basis, the infor-mation as requested by the Deputy is as set outin the following table. The Deputy may wish tonote that it is estimated that approximately 64%of health services personnel formally classified as“management/administrative” are involved indirect service provision to the public.Total Health Service Staff end-1995 to September 2004 1Date Eastern Midland Mid-Western North- North- South- Southern Western TotalEastern Western Eastern31/12/1995 26,558 3,183 4,850 4,174 4,254 5,960 9,014 6,662 64,65531/12/1996 27,262 3,300 4,904 4,136 4,285 5,850 9,138 6,795 65,66931/12/1997 28,127 3,428 5,173 4,440 4,402 6,098 9,273 6,899 67,84131/12/1998 28,747 3,592 5,399 4,516 4,444 6,266 9,376 7,300 69,64031/12/1999 30,069 3,625 5,532 4,764 4,771 6,661 9,985 7,387 72,79331/12/2000 33,116 3,967 6,201 5,147 5,265 7,439 10,828 8,107 80,07031/12/2001 36,604 4,816 6,904 5,994 6,407 8,015 12,385 9,177 90,30231/12/2002 38,689 5,251 7,364 6,374 6,722 8,579 13,031 9,669 95,67931/12/2003 37,801 5,239 7,750 6,929 6,783 8,860 13,252 9,887 96,50130/09/2004 38,535 5,498 7,922 7,226 6,872 8,627 13,701 9,997 98,379Total Management Administrative Staff end-1995 to September 2004 2Date Eastern Midland Mid-Western North- North- South- Southern Western TotalEastern Western Eastern31/12/1995 3,400 338 544 527 569 675 1,025 826 7,90431/12/1996 3,527 360 581 516 594 646 1,083 866 8,17331/12/1997 3,839 385 648 569 630 729 1,153 889 8,84431/12/1998 4,138 411 723 680 656 771 1,150 951 9,48031/12/1999 4662 443 788 744 720 874 1,330 1,037 10,59931/12/2000 5,265 557 982 876 927 1,036 1,501 1,221 12,36631/12/2001 6,170 731 1,129 1,043 1,223 1,111 1,813 1,495 14,71431/12/2002 6,448 812 1,254 1,216 1,218 1,180 1,993 1,569 15,69031/12/2003 6,388 764 1,303 1,250 1,186 1,282 1,956 1,637 15,76630/09/2004 6,468 845 1,398 1,284 1,212 1,382 2,039 1,661 16,289Source: Health Service Personnel Census.Notes:1 Excludes Home Helps.2 Includes all management/ administrative and clerical personnel.Health Services.140. Caoimhghín ÓCaoláin asked the Tánaisteand Minister for Health and Children if her attentionhas been drawn to the fact that a person(details supplied) has called for an all-Ireland solutionto the shortage of children’s cardiac surgeons;if she has contacted or intends to contacther Northern counterpart with a view to establishinga joint feasibility study into the viability ofsuch a service; if so, the proposed timetable forcompletion of the study; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5979/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): Under the Health Act 2004, theHealth Service Executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for paediatric cardiacsurgery. It is intended to refer the matter to theexecutive for its views on the suggestion made bythe person referred to by the Deputy.Adoption Services.141. Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the groups awardedgrants by the Adoption Board in 2004; theamount of the grants awarded; the reason PARCand PNPIC (details supplied) were excluded fromgrant aid; and if similar grants are available in2005. [5980/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. B. Lenihan): The AdoptionBoard is an independent statutory body withresponsibility for the administration of the AdoptionActs, 1952 to 1998. My Department has forwardedthis question to the chief executive of theAdoption Board for direct response to theDeputy.

391 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 392Child Care Services.142. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if her attentionhas been drawn to the fact that the child care coordinatorat a project (details supplied) inKilkenny was let go due to lack of funding; if shewill provide the funding to restore the position;her views on the shortfall in funding of \30,000in 2005; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5981/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executivewhich was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for women’s refuges.Accordingly, my Department has requested thechief officer for the executive’s south-easternarea to investigate the matter raised and to replydirectly to the Deputy.Health Services.143. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if a bed will beprovided for a person (details supplied) inCounty Kilkenny at the medical care unit, ThomastownHospital, Kilkenny; and if a decision inthe case will be expedited. [5982/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executive,which was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.This includes responsibility for the provision ofbeds in hospitals. Accordingly, my Departmenthas requested the chief officer for the executive’ssouth-eastern area to investigate the matterraised and to reply directly to the Deputy.144. Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children if an applicationto the Health Service Executive to provide intermediatecare beds for older persons in the nameof a person (details supplied) in County Kilkennywill be processed as part of the current initiative;her Departments policy on this scheme or initiativeand the criteria by which applicants will beconsidered; if applicants such as this person areto be excluded, the reason thereof in view of thedeficit in the south east for such a facility; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter.[5983/05]Minister of State at the Department of Healthand Children (Mr. S. Power): The Health Act2004 provided for the Health Service Executivewhich was established on 1 January 2005. Underthe Act, the executive has the responsibility tomanage and deliver, or arrange to be deliveredon its behalf, health and personal social services.The initiative to provide intermediate care for500 older people annually waiting discharge fromthe acute hospital sector is being administered bythe Health Service Executive. It has invited tendersfor the 500 intermediate care places. Theclosing date for the receipt of tenders was 16February 2005. A copy of the Deputy’s questionhas therefore been forwarded to the interim chiefexecutive officer for direct reply.145. Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the number ofpatients attending the haemochromatosis clinic atthe County Hospital, County Roscommon; thecorresponding figure for January 2004; theadditional resources provided in the interim; andif she will make a statement on the matter.[5986/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Act 2004 provided forthe Health Service Executive which was establishedon 1 January 2005. Under the Act, theexecutive has the responsibility to manage anddeliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf,health and personal social services. This includesresponsibility for the provision of services atRoscommon County Hospital. Accordingly, myDepartment has requested the chief officer forthe executive’s western area to investigate thematter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.Computerisation Programme.146. Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste andMinister for Health and Children the timescalefor the roll out of the Health Level 7 messagingstructure within the health service; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5990/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): Health Level 7, HL7, is one of severalAmerican National Standards Instituteaccredited standards developing organisationsoperating in the health care arena. Its mission isto:provide standards for the exchange, managementand integration of data that support clinicalpatient care and the management, deliveryand evaluation of health care services. Specifically,to create flexible, cost effectiveapproaches, standards, guidelines, methodologies,and related services for interoperabilitybetween health care information systems.HL7 standards are being adopted worldwide ascrucial elements in creating the environmentnecessary to support the delivery of integrated,person centred health services, by making relevantinformation available as appropriate toauthorised care professionals.

393 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 394In 2003, the HL7 messaging standard wasadopted by the health service, through the workof the former health boards executive’s messagingproject, as the national standard for appropriatemessages. As new messages are developed,they will be built to conform to that standard.Selected messages between a number of hospitalsand general practitioner offices have beendeveloped and are being delivered, conforming tothis standard. It is intended that further secondarycare to primary care linkages will be made,particularly between hospitals and general practitioners,as the underlying information andcommunications technology systems are madeready to receive them. As new information andcommunications technology products and servicesare acquired for the health service, appropriatecomponents will be required to confirm tothe HL7 standard at the time of acquisition, or tohave a clear plan for ensuring such conformancewithin a reasonable timeframe.Health Services.147. Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the position on thepractice of health authorities holding the pensionbooks of older persons in public nursing homesfollowing the Supreme Court judgment of 16February 2005; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5997/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The Health Service Executive,which assumed responsibility for the delivery ofhealth and personal social services with effectfrom 1 January 2005, has indicated that it is issuinga letter to all patients who have authorisedthe executive to act as their agent offering themchoices with regard to their pension books andthat arrangements will be made to return the pensionbooks to them if that is their choice.Some patients may not be in a position to makea decision regarding their arrangements and theprocess will have to involve the patient’s next ofkin. This matter will be dealt with by each nursinghome and institution giving the opportunity todiscuss the matter with the relevant local staff.The Health Service Executive is working with theDepartment of Social and Family Affairs in thisregard. The emphasis is on ensuring choice isgiven to those who are in a position to exerciseit and that the best interests of the patient aremaintained at all times.Services for People with Disabilities.148. Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children the legal basis forthe practice whereby persons with disabilitieswho are in residential care have all or part oftheir disability benefit or allowance withheld bythe residential care facility; the extent of thispractice; if such practices will be affected by theSupreme Court judgment of 16 February 2005 onelderly persons in nursing home care; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [6090/05]Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children(Ms Harney): The practices of charging or seekinga contribution from clients with a disability inresidential care who had income which mayinclude a disability benefit or allowance has beencommon practice. Following the Attorney General’sadvice that there was no legal basis for suchcharges, the health agencies were instructed tostop charging for long-stay care on 9 December2004. The situation concerning contributionssought for rent or other expenses was furtherclarified by the Department in a letter issued on23 December 2004.The Health Service Executive has obtainedlegal advice on these practices which supportedthe Department’s decision in December to ceasecharging or the payment of contributions by eligiblepersons. My Department is considering theextent to which these practices are affected by theSupreme Court decision of 16 February 2005 andthis will be taken into account in the detailedoperation of the repayments scheme which Iexpect to put in place shortly.Child Care Facilities.149. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Financethe progress with, the costings and timescale forthe provision of crèche facilities for those workingwithin the Leinster House complex; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5545/05]Minister of State at the Department of Finance(Mr. Parlon): A brief of requirements for thecrèche facility is awaited from the Houses of theOireachtas. Until the brief is finalised, it is notpossible to accurately estimate the cost of providingthe facility or indeed the time to complete thework. The crèche facility will be located in thelower ground floor of Kildare House.Tax Code.150. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Financehis views on the recommendation containedin the NESC report on housing that considerationshould be given to a separate tax on secondhomes; if the Government is considering introducingsuch a tax; if so, the rate of such tax; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[5546/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I have noplans to introduce a tax on second homes.Flood Relief.151. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forFinance in cases in which houses are wreckedbeyond repair due to flooding and in which theinsurance only covers repairs but such repairs do

395 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 396[Mr. Connaughton.]not restore houses to their original state, will hisDepartment, through the Irish Red Cross, acceptapplications for such eventualities; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5660/05]Minister of State at the Department of Finance(Mr. Parlon): Humanitarian aid schemes forhouseholders who have suffered damage to theirhomes as a result of flooding are consideredwhere the extent of the damage has been catastrophicand the normal safety nets that protectagainst risk are either inoperable or inadequateand hardship is suffered on an extensive scale.Such schemes, which have been administered bythe Irish Red Cross, provided for the relief ofhardship and were not compensation for losses ora substitute for insurance. The aid was notdesigned to put victims in the position they werein before the catastrophic event but to alleviateextreme hardship and to assist flood victims inrestoring their lives to some semblance ofnormality.The local authorities are the housing authorityin their respective areas and there are no plans toinvolve the Irish Red Cross in cases where houseshave been damaged beyond repair. Arising fromthe Government decision last September whichapproved the recommendations of the floodpolicy review group, the administration ofhumanitarian assistance in the future by the communitywelfare services of the regional healthexecutive in conjunction with, as appropriate,local community and voluntary groups and nongovernmentalorganisations is being examined.Standards in Public Office Commission.152. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Financeif he has plans to extend the scope and remit ofthe Standards in Public Office Commission.[5724/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): There areno plans to extend the scope and remit of theStandards in Public Commission.Departmental Correspondence.153. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Financewhen a correct P21 will re-issue to a person(details supplied) in County Kildare; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5549/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I amadvised by the Revenue Commissioners that acorrect PAYE balancing statement 2003, formP21, issued to the taxpayer dated 16 February2005.Disabled Drivers.154. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Financethe position in relation to the case of a person(details supplied) in County Wicklow; if thiswill be dealt with as speedily as possible; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5586/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I have nodirect responsibility for the day-to-day operationof the medical board of appeal for the disableddrivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions)scheme. However, my Department, together withthe Department of Health and Children, is reconstitutingthe medical board of appeal for thescheme. Progress has been made and it is hopedthat the new arrangements will be put in placeshortly. I will arrange for the new secretary to theboard, when in place, to contact the individualconcerned in regard to his appeal.155. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Financethe position in relation to the case of a person(details supplied) in County Wicklow; if thiswill be dealt with as speedily as possible; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5587/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I have nodirect responsibility for the day-to-day operationof the medical board of appeal for the disableddrivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions)scheme. However, my Department, together withthe Department of Health and Children, is reconstitutingthe medical board of appeal for thescheme. Progress has been made and it is hopedthat the new arrangements will be put in placeshortly. I will arrange for the new secretary to theboard, when in place, to contact the individualconcerned in regard to his appeal.Tax Code.156. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Financethe number of first-time buyers who have paidstamp duty at the lowest rate, 3%, in Dublin in2004; and the number who paid stamp duty at thelowest rate, 3%, in Mayo in 2004. [5606/05]157. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Financethe number of first-time buyers in 2004 who wereexempt from paying stamp duty; the number whopaid at the 3%, 3.75%, 4.75%, 7.5% and 9%rates; and the amount of revenue raised in eachrate for first-time buyers. [5607/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I proposeto take Questions Nos. 156 and 157 together.As the Deputy will be aware, I changed thestamp duty rates for first-time owner-occupiers ofsecond-hand property in the 2005 budget, whichwas announced on 1 December 2004. The followingtable, which was provided to the Deputy in aprevious parliamentary question response, outlinesthe old rates which were applicable up to 1December 2004, as well as the new rates asapplicable on or after 2 December 2004. It alsoshows relevant information available regardingthe number of transactions and the stamp dutyyield relating to first-time buyers who paid stampduty in 2004 as provided to me by the RevenueCommissioners:

397 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 398Thresholds First-Time No. of transactions First-Time Buyer No. of transactions Stamp DutyBuyer Rate Pre- for First Time Rate Post-Budget for First Time Yield for FirstBudget Buyers (Pre- Buyers (Post- Time BuyersBudget)Budget)% % \m\190,501 to \254,000 3.00 3,970 Exempt n/a 26.7\254,001 to \317,500 3.75 2,542 Exempt n/a 26.5\317,501 to \381,000 4.50 1,069 3 35 16.4 (4.5%)\381,001 to \635,000 7.50 Unknown 6 16 0.40.4 (3%)As the Deputy was previously advised, stampduty rates for property transactions exceeding\381,000 up to 1 December 2004 and for transactionsexceeding \635,000 on or after 2December 2004 were the same for all purchasersand, therefore, it is not possible to distinguishfirst-time buyer transactions from other transactionsin excess of those values.As the Deputy was also advised, statistics onstamp duty transactions are not compiled by referenceto the address of the property purchasedand, accordingly, it is not possible to provide theinformation requested by reference to counties.Particulars of transactions where no stamp dutyapplies are not normally captured. Accordingly,it is not possible to provide reliable informationin relation to exempt categories.Political Fund-Raising.158. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Financeif he will consider putting in place measures toensure that companies and persons with substantialcontracts with Departments be precludedfrom political fund-raising for the Ministersoverseeing those Departments. [5719/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I have noplans to introduce such a restriction.Consultancy Contracts.159. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Financeif, in view of recent investigations by the Standardsin Public Office Commission, he will considerrequiring that each Department keep an upto-dateregister of all consultants engaged and theterms of reference of their work. [5720/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): Undersection 6, recording and reporting on consultanciesin the Civil Service, of the Department ofFinance guidelines for engagement of consultantsin the Civil Service — March 1999 — Departments-officeswhich commission consultants arerequired to establish computer registers and torecord in relation to each consultancy the firmawarded the contract, the cost and purpose of theproject, the terms of reference of the consultantsand the name of a contact official most familiarwith the details of the assignment.160. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Financeif, in view of recent investigations by the Standardsin Public Office Commission, he will considerputting strict criteria in place regarding foreigntravel by consultants engaged by hisDepartment. [5721/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): The guidelinesfor engagement of consultants in the CivilService, produced by my Department in March1999, outlines in paragraph 3.05 a number of generalcriteria to be adhered to by Departments inrelation to consultancy projects. One of the generalcriteria outlined is that Departments shouldensure that additional costs and-or expenses areincluded as part of the fee. Where this is not feasible,particular care should be taken to ensurethat such costs are adequately vouched and arereasonable. Where additional costs for travellingand subsistence cannot be avoided, they shouldwhere possible not exceed those appropriaterates applying in the Civil Service. Officials in myDepartment are, therefore, aware of the requirementthat the costs of only necessary and reasonabletravel relevant to a project by consultantsshould be met by the Department.161. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Financeif there are criteria in place for the engagementof public relations consultants by Departments;and if so, if he will provide this Deputy with acopy of such guidelines. [5722/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): There arethree sets of guidelines which set out the criteriain question: general guidelines on procurement,general guidelines on the engagement of consultantsand new guidelines which will apply particularlyin the public relations or communicationsarea.In March 1999, my Department issued theguidelines for engagement of consultants in theCivil Service. The latest public procurementguidelines, public procurement guidelines competitiveprocess, were issued by my Departmentin July 2004. Both documents are available on theDepartment’s website. I have arranged for hardcopies to be sent to the Deputy.Following consideration of the recommendationsin the recent report prepared by Mr.

399 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 400[Mr. Cowen.]Dermot Quigley, additional guidelines in relationto certain proposed consultancy contracts havenow been agreed for incorporation in the Cabinethandbook. These guidelines will apply particularlyin the PR or communications area wherethere is a significant element of direct service toa Minister or where a Minister has suggested thename of a person or enterprise for a consultancyor contract. The additional guidelines are in effectsince 15 February. The full text of the guidelinesis available on the website of the Department ofthe Taoiseach.Tax Code.162. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister forFinance if there are tax incentives for personstowards paying crèche fees; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5825/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): There areno tax incentives available for persons towardspaying crèche fees. Over recent years, theGovernment has considered carefully the area ofchild care. It has been decided as a matter ofpolicy that child benefit will be the main instrumentthrough which support will be provided toparents. One of the main benefits from thisapproach is that, whereas tax relief would be oflittle or no benefit to those with low incomes, theprovision of support for parents through the childbenefit route means equality of treatment for allrecipients.In line with this policy approach, the Governmenthas substantially increased child benefitsince coming into office in 1997. Overall expenditureon child benefit has increased by 279% from\506 million in 1997 to an estimated \1,916 millionin 2005.To address the availability of services, the supplyof formal child care places is being stimulatedthrough a programme of investment under thenational development plan equal opportunitieschild care programme, EOCP. The EOCP fundscapital development to increase places, supportstaffing costs for facilities targeting disadvantage,and improve child care quality. Over the next fiveyears, 2005-2009, the capital envelope for theplanned programme of continued investment inchild care facilities will be \313 million, which isexpected to create about 17,000 places, 3,400 perannum for each of the next five years. The 2005allocation for the EOCP provides \83.4 millionof which \43.8 million is current and \39.6 millionis capital funding.The Government has also undertakenmeasures to favour the supply of child care bytax incentives to set up facilities and relief frombenefit-in-kind taxation for free or subsidisedchild care where this is provided by employers.Taken together, these represent substantialmeasures to assist with the cost of child care andI have no plans to introduce additional measuresat this time.Dormant Accounts Fund.163. Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Financethe requirements under dormant accounts legislationon life companies to contact the policyholdersin respect of single premium investmentbonds which have a distant maturity date; and ifhis attention has been drawn to the complaintsthat the standard format of communication wouldencourage many individuals to encash their policies;and if he will make a statement on theappropriateness of the procedures coming intooperation ahead of the maturity date of thepolicy. [5884/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): Undersection 6 of the Unclaimed Life Assurance PolicesAct 2003, a life assurance policy is treated asunclaimed if, in the case of a fixed term policy,the specified term has expired, if an amountwould be payable if the policyholder were tomake a claim, and if the insurance undertakinghas received no communication from the policyholderfor a period of at least five years. In thecase of a policy which does not have a specifiedterm, these conditions are met only when aperiod of 15 years has elapsed without any communicationfrom the policyholder.Section 8 of the Act sets out the procedures fornotification of the holders of unclaimed policiesbefore a transfer is made to the dormant accountsfund. The insurance undertaking must give writtennotice to the policyholder, at the last addressknown to the undertaking, of the following: thename and current address of the undertaking andany information regarding a change of name sincethe policy issued; that an unclaimed policy towhich the policyholder appears to be entitled isheld at the undertaking; that if no communicationfrom the policyholder is received by the undertaking,the net encashment value of the policywill be transferred to the dormant accounts fund;and that the policyholder is entitled to claim themoneys payable under the policy.Where the value of the policy is \500 or less orthe undertaking has been either instructed not tocontact the policyholder or is unable to do so,section 9 of the Act requires the undertaking toadvertise the fact that it holds unclaimed policies.In the normal course of business, insuranceundertakings may contact policyholders whosepolicies have not yet matured for a variety ofreasons unconnected with the unclaimed policieslegislation. These include the requirements underthe Insurance Act 1989 and the Life Assurance(Provision of Information) Regulations 2001referred to in to my reply to the Deputy’s questionof 10 February last.I understand that it is also common industrypractice to send out annual communication to

401 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 402clients, including such information as unit allocationstatements, indexation notices and annualbenefit statements. Where a policy has a fixedterm, such as in the case of single premium investmentbonds, the undertaking will normally writeout to the policyholder in advance of the maturitydate to advise them that the policy is about tomature. These commercial practices may varyfrom firm to firm and may not extend to all typesof policy.I am informed by the financial regulator thatit is not aware of any complaints regarding lifecompanies’ correspondence in respect ofunclaimed policies, including single premiuminvestment bonds. However, any complaintsshould in the first instance be made to the regulatorat: Consumer Information Department,Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority,PO Box 9138, College Green, Dublin 2, lo-call1890 77 77 77.Tax Code.164. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Financethe details of all section 50 student accommodationschemes approved since the inception ofthe schemes; if he will provide a breakdown ofthe location and number of bedspaces approvedby each participating college; the mechanismwhereby such student accommodation is monitoredto ensure that it is used by students of theapproving colleges; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5913/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): The Ministerfor Education and Science, in consultationwith the Minister for the Environment and LocalGovernment, with the consent of the Minister forFinance, issues guidelines regarding section 50student accommodation. Under these guidelinesthere is a requirement for a minimum of threebed spaces per unit and a maximum of eight perunit. In this regard, I am informed by the Departmentof the Environment and Local Governmentthat the 4,718 units certified and completed todate have on average 3.7 bed spaces whichamounts to an average of 17,500 bed spaces. Themajority of the units certified and completedrelate to Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Cork.The following table illustrates the location of theapproved units.The guidelines issued by the Department ofEducation and Science also contain a requirementthat tax-relieved accommodation can onlybe let to students of a certifying educational institutionduring the academic year and to nonstudentsoutside of the academic year. Claims fortax relief for the capital investment in studentaccommodation schemes by investors are madeunder the self-assessment system. In this regard,a certain number of such claims are audited aspart of the Revenue Commissioners’ audit programme.Part of an audit would involve the inspectorof taxes, who deals with the audit, being satisfiedthat the conditions for claiming the tax reliefhave been fulfilled, and the investor may beasked to provide evidence that the accommodationhas been let solely to students of the certifyingeducational institution.Section 50 Units Approved01/04/1999-18/02/2005Carlow 79Castlebar 22Cork 570Letterkenny 112Dublin 641Galway 819Tralee 264Maynooth 183Limerick 1061Sligo 356Waterford 512Athlone 99Total 4,718Under the terms of the scheme, there is a requirementfor a minimum of 3 bedspaces per unit anda maximum of eight per unit. The average is 3.7per unit.165. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Financethe number of spouses of company directors whoare not in receipt of the employee tax credit,PAYE allowance; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5915/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): Under theprovisions of Section 472 of the Taxes ConsolidationAct 1997, a proprietary director and herhisspouse are not entitled to the employee taxcredit, formerly the PAYE allowance, againstemoluments paid to either spouse by a companyof which one of the spouses is a proprietary director.However, the employee tax credit may bedue to each spouse against her-his other emoluments,if any.A “proprietary director” means a director of acompany who is either the beneficial owner of,or able, directly or through the medium of othercompanies or by any other means, to controlmore than 15% of the ordinary share capital ofthe company. I am informed by the RevenueCommissioners that statistics on the number ofspouses of proprietary directors who are not inreceipt of the PAYE allowance are not maintainedand could not be obtained without conductinga protracted investigation of the RevenueCommissioners’ records.Nursing Home Charges.166. Mr. Kelleher asked the Minister for Financeif he will consider accessing the nationalpensions reserve fund on a once-off basis to fund

403 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 404[Mr. Kelleher.]the cost of reimbursement of the nursing homecharges on foot of the Supreme Court’s decisionof 16 February 2005 that such charges wereunlawful; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5929/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): Thenational pensions reserve fund was establishedfor the purpose of meeting as much as possible ofthe cost to the Exchequer of social welfare pensionsand public service pensions to be paid fromthe year 2025 until the year 2055, or such othersubsequent years as may be specified, as set outin section 18(1) of the National Pensions ReserveFund Act 2000. Section 20(1) of the Act statesthat “the Commission shall not make any paymentfrom the fund to the Exchequer before theyear 2025”.The reimbursement of nursing home charges isprimarily a matter for the Tánaiste and Ministerfor Health and Children who, I understand, isconsidering the judgment of the Supreme Courtand will bring proposals to Government veryshortly. As the Tánaiste indicated in the Houselast week, the cost of reimbursement will be metfrom the Vote for the Health Service Executive.A Supplementary Estimate to cover the costs willbe moved in due course.Tax Code.167. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance,further to Question No. 269 of 15 February2005, the technical difficulties which have beenexperienced; if he will elaborate on these; thesteps being taken to resolve this issue; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [6096/05]Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen): I amadvised by the Revenue Commissioners that aproject was commenced on a pilot basis to captureinformation from income tax and corporationtax returns for the purpose of raising taxassessments. The pilot project in relation toincome tax experienced some technical difficultiesnot related to the external contractor andsteps are being taken to resolve these. The essentialdifficulties were technical issues regarding thespeed of transfer of captured data from the externalcontractor to Revenue, amendments to computersoftware rules relating to the validation ofinformation on return forms and amendments tocomputer software rules used to generate computerassessments.Work to resolve these issues involving softwaredevelopment and testing is ongoing. It is estimatedthat this work will be completed by theend of March 2005. In the meantime, the incometax forms included in the pilot project are beingassessed to tax in the normal manner. Overall, inexcess of 92% of paper income tax returns submittedto Revenue have now been processed.Water and Sewerage Schemes.168. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif approval has been granted to the foreshorelicence for the Mullagh and Quilty seweragescheme; the status of the current scheme; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[5635/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): My Department’s responsibilityin this matter relates to the foreshore licenceaspect only. The conditions of the draft licencewhich the Department is prepared to recommendfor my approval were sent to Clare CountyCouncil’s consultants on 1 February and theDepartment is still awaiting confirmation of thecouncil’s agreement to them. Assuming a positiveresponse is received from the local authority, theDepartment will then be in a position to make arecommendation to me.Heating Systems.169. Mr. Fleming asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif he will consider introducing a grant to facilitatethe installation of geothermal heating in allhouses; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5878/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): Housinggrants schemes are generally the responsibility ofmy colleague, the Minister for the Environment,Heritage and Local Government. I have neitherplans nor funds to introduce a grant scheme ofthe type suggested in the question.Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, which wasestablished as a statutory agency in May 2002,implements initiatives on renewable energy andenergy efficiency on behalf of my Department.Under SEI’s House of Tomorrow researchdevelopment and demonstration programme,heat pumps are one of a number of energy technologieseligible for support in the context of anintegrated set of measures comprising a wholehouse energy efficiency solution. This programmeis open to demonstration projects involving clustersof five or more homes. Funding is availableon a limited scale for whole house measures at arate of up to \5,000 per house in suchdevelopments.Departmental Funding.170. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourceshis proposals to assist, directly or indirectly, TG4with reference to home-produced material; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[6007/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): MyDepartment provides significant public fundingfor TG4 to enable it to provide an Irish languagetelevision service. The 2005 Estimates includes a

405 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 406provision of \24.858 million for TG4. Decisionsin relation to the commissioning of programmesare a matter for TG4. I have no role in the matter.Postal Services.171. Mr. Andrews asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourceshis views on the failure of An Post managementto allow the same pension increase to formeremployees as is being negotiated for existingstaff. [5590/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): I refer theDeputy to my reply to Question No. 268 of 8February 2005.The authority to implement pension increaseswas delegated to An Post, subject to certain conditions,as this activity was considered part of theday-to-day operations of the company. In practicethis allowed the company to implement pensionincreases following pay increases to employees.However, decisions outside the scope of the originaldelegated authority still require the consentof both the Minister for Communications, Marineand Natural Resources and the Minister forFinance.Following a proposal from the board of AnPost to amend the existing pension increase termsof An Post, in this instance, my Department andthe Department of Finance undertook a reviewof the situation. While I fully empathise with AnPost pensioners for the position they find themselvesin due to the failure of An Post managementand unions to reach agreement on implementationof the recovery strategy, the wideroverall policy issues raised by the proposal fromAn Post also need to be considered.By way of background and as the Deputy maybe aware, the existing terms of the An Post superannuationscheme provide for pay parity, that is,that pensions are increased in line with the payof serving staff. This is in accordance with publicservice defined benefit pension increase policygenerally, pay parity being an integral and wellestablished practice which is widely applied inpublic service defined benefit pension schemes.Unfortunately, following examination of theissue and taking into consideration the implicationsof providing a precedent which couldimpact adversely on the cost of pensions in thewider public sector and the existing practice ofpay parity, increases to pensioners of An Postlinked to increases under Sustaining Progress arenot possible at this time.While I understand the current frustration ofAn Post pensioners with the situation, agreementin partnership with An Post unions to the restructuringplan aimed at securing the future of thecompany and providing sustainable long-termemployment for An Post workers is the way forward.With this in mind, I have urged both theunions and the management of An Post to engagefully with the industrial relations mechanisms ofthe State to agree a way forward for the future ofthe company and all stakeholders in this matter.Foreshore Licences.172. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourceswhen a foreshore licence regarding the proposednew sewerage system at Cheekpoint, CountyWaterford, will be granted; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5591/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): Subsequent to making an applicationto the Department for a foreshore licencefor the Cheekpoint waste water treatment plant,Waterford County Council discovered that, dueto increasing siltation problems, the storm wateroverflow pipe would not have worked effectivelyat the location originally proposed for it. Consequently,the local authority put revised proposals,involving relocation of the overflow pipe, to theDepartment.The revised proposals were put to public consultationin December last. The submissionsreceived, together with the county council’sresponses to them, received by the Departmenton 19 January, have been examined by theDepartment’s engineering division. The matterwill now be put before the next meeting of themarine licence vetting committee, an expertgroup that advises me on proposals of this nature.I understand the issues to be considered by thecommittee in this case will include possibleimpacts on fishing and fisheries as well as possibleimplications for the navigation channel for theport of Waterford. A decision on the countycouncil’s proposals will be made as soon as possibleafter the marine licence vetting committeehas completed its consideration of theapplication.Harbour Authorities.173. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourceswhen a representative of the workers will beappointed to the port of Waterford; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5602/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): The appointment of anemployee director of the Port of Waterford companyfalls to be made by me in accordance withthe procedure laid down in section 30 of the HarboursAct 1996. The legislation provides thatbefore making the appointment I shall consultany recognised trade union or staff associationconcerned which, following such consultation,may recommend that I consider that a particularperson be appointed as a director of the company.This statutory consultation process is completeand I will be making the appointment in thenear future.

407 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 408Fishing Permits.174. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif he will revoke the fishing permit for courseangling introduced in 2003 on the River Suck; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5652/05]181. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesthe amount of money collected by way of fishingpermits or rod licences on the River Suck (detailssupplied) since the legislation was introducedover two years ago; the cost of providing suchpermits by way of printing, travelling expensesand general administration costs; if his attentionhas been drawn to the fact that this scheme hasbeen a disaster for this area; if his attention hasfurther been drawn to the fact that this river is anoutstanding coarse fishing venue and the introductionof the fishing permit has discouraged anglersfrom fishing on the river; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5937/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): I propose to take QuestionsNos. 174 and 181 together.Under the Fisheries Acts 1959 to 2001, theregional fisheries boards are empowered to havea permit charge for angling on fisheries undertheir control and management. However, theapplication of such a permit charge is an operationalmatter solely for the relevant board todecide, in this instance the Shannon RegionalFisheries Board, and is not something over whichI, as Minister of State, have control.I am advised by the Shannon Regional FisheriesBoard that it has had a permit charge for troutangling for many years on fisheries that it controlsand manages in the region. I am also informed bythe board that the permit income is reinvested inthe conservation and day-to-day management ofthese fisheries.I understand that the fisheries board, inreviewing its management and the fees chargedfor its fisheries in 2002, decided to extend the permitcharges to cover coarse angling on the boardcontrolled fisheries on the basis that it was unfairto charge one angler to fish for one species whileanother angler fishing for a different species onthe same water was not charged. As this is anoperational matter, I have asked the chief executiveofficer of the Shannon Regional FisheriesBoard to address the particular queries raised andto reply directly to the Deputies.Alternative Energy Projects.175. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesthe action that is being taken to achieve theobjective set out in the EU biofuels directiverequiring Ireland to replace 2% of petrol anddiesel with renewable fuels by the end of 2005and to increase this to 5.75% by 2010; if bioethanolfrom sugar beet is being considered as aviable alternative; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5750/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): MyDepartment is responsible for the promotion anddevelopment of renewable energy including biofuelsand I am committed to the development andpromotion of a biofuels market in Ireland’s transportfuel sector. The targets set in the biofuelsdirective for market penetration of biofuels areindicative and not mandatory and present a challengeto Ireland given the low base from whichwe are starting. An interdepartmental group hasbeen established, chaired by my Department andcomprising officials from Sustainable EnergyIreland, SEI, and the Departments of the Environment,Heritage and Local Government, Transport,Agriculture and Food, and Finance. Thegroup is considering policy options for thedevelopment of a biofuels sector in Ireland. Aspart of the work of this group, a liquid biofuelsstrategy study was published by SEI in Decemberwhich examines the full range of options andpotential supports for liquid biofuels developmentin Ireland, including bioethanol and biodiesel.The report is being considered as part of theoverall policy objective to increase market penetrationof biofuels in Ireland, which is at a verylow level.In March 2004, my Department secured anamendment to the Finance Act 1999, which providesfor the introduction of a scheme for excisetax relief for biofuels. The purpose of the schemeis to allow qualified and conditional relief fromexcise of biofuel used in approved pilot projectsfor either the production of biofuel or the testingof the technical viability of biofuel for use as amotor fuel. It is envisaged that the scheme willencompass market development for pure plantoil, biodiesel and bioethanol. The EuropeanCommission has confirmed that the schemewould represent a state aid and consequently itsapproval is required. In this regard the Departmentof Finance has written to the Commissionseeking approval. Once the necessary clearance isgranted, a commencement order will be signed bythe Department of Finance and the process forproject selection and approval will beimplemented.Sustainable Energy Ireland is also funding anumber of biomass projects and studies throughits renewable energy research development anddemonstration, RERDD, programme. Under theprogramme, Sustainable Energy Ireland offerscapital grant aid for biofuels market demonstrationprojects in the pure plant oil, biodieseland bioethanol categories.Fishing Industry Development.176. Mr. Perry asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourceswhen a comprehensible survey to establish theparameters of the wild oyster fishery in Lough

409 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 410Swilly will be carried out; if this will be done inconjunction with interested parties such as aquacultureinterests, licensed wild oyster dredgers andrepresentatives from the Inch fishing communityand traditional hand-pickers; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5754/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): A comprehensive survey of thewild oyster beds in Lough Swilly was carried outin 2001 by personnel from Bord Iascaigh Mharain conjunction with staff from the aquacultureinitiative — a cross-Border body funded underthe peace programme. The survey was conductedin conjunction with the Lough Swilly Wild OysterDevelopment Association, LSWODA, and otherwild fisheries interests and its findings werewidely disseminated at that time. Since then anumber of smaller-scale surveys of specific areasof Lough Swilly have been carried out. Mostrecently, a survey was conducted adjacent to theBallygreen area, the results of which, I understand,will be reported to the Department beforethe end of February. At the request of theLSWODA, a further local survey of the Ryebridgearea is to be carried out in the next sixmonths by BIM and aquaculture initiative staffas before.I am advised that as a result of the work carriedout in recent years, the location and extent of theLough Swilly wild oyster beds are quite wellunderstood. In these circumstances, there are noproposals at present for a further comprehensivesurvey of the oyster beds.Fishing Vessel Licences.177. Mr. Kenny asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif his attention has been drawn to the hardshipcaused by conditions to licences awarded to certainfishing vessels (details supplied); and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5824/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): The Fisheries Consolidation Act1959, as amended, expressly empowers the licensingauthority to make it a condition of a sea-fishingboat licence that a certain proportion of thecrew of a boat shall be of a specified nationality.The requirement for a certain proportion of crewmembers to be of EU nationality arises from theimportance of achieving the maximum economicbenefit to coastal communities and the Irish economygenerally from the operation of an Irish seafishingboat. The requirement was reduced from75% to 50% in 2001 following representationsfrom industry representatives. It should be notedthat the recent enlargement of the EuropeanUnion has increased the number of potentialcrew members from EU nationalities. Since thischange was implemented, there has been nodemand from industry representatives for anyfurther change in this requirement. In the eventthat a change in the requirement is pursued byindustry representatives, I will review the matter.178. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif the licensing authority will issue a short-termpolyvalent licence to a person (detailssupplied). [5862/05]179. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesthe number of short-term polyvalent licenceswhich have been issued since 1 January 2005.[5863/05]180. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesthe number of short-term pelagic licences whichhave been re-issued since 1 January 2005.[5864/05]Minister of State at the Department ofCommunications, Marine and Natural Resources(Mr. Gallagher): I propose to take Question Nos.178 to 180, inclusive, together.The particular licence applicant referred to bythe Deputy wrote to me on 31 January 2005 seekinga polyvalent sea-fishing boat licence for thevessel in question, without the provision of 100%replacement capacity, on a short-term basis. Iwrote to him on 9 February informing him thatresponsibility for the licensing of sea-fishing boatshad transferred to the licensing authority for seafishingboats established under the Fisheries(Amendment) Act 2003 and that I had passed hisletter to the head of the licensing authority, asenior official in the Department, for direct replyto him. The licensing authority operates on anindependent basis subject to certain criteria andimplements licensing policy in accordance withministerial policy directives.I understand that the licensing authority, whichhad previously met and written to the individualconcerned about this matter, replied to him on 10February and again explained that sea-fishingboat licensing policy does not permit the licensingauthority to license the vessel without fullreplacement capacity being provided in advance.It pointed out that ministerial policy directive2/2003, issued to the licensing authority on 17November 2003, makes it clear that the 1:1replacement capacity requirement applies otherthan in limited specified cases. I understand thatthe licensing authority recently agreed to extend,by three months, the period of validity of thelicence offer issued to the individual concerned togive him more time to comply with licensingrequirements.On the question of “short-term” licences, nostatutory period is specified in respect of whichsea-fishing licences may be granted. Subject toany overriding licensing policy considerations,this is an operational matter for the licensingauthority which can issue licences having validityfor any period of time in the interests of efficientmanagement of licensing and taking into account

411 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 412[Mr. Gallagher.]any other relevant issues such as safetyrequirements.The licensing authority had, up to 17 February,issued six new sea-fishing boat licences for thepolyvalent fleet segment since the beginning ofthis year. Full replacement capacity was providedin all cases prior to licensing, as required undergeneral licensing policy. The licensing authorityhas, since 1 January 2005, issued six renewallicences in respect of vessels in the pelagic fleetsegment. The six vessels concerned have beenlicensed in accordance with section H of policydirective 2/2003, as amended, which specificallysets out the manner in which replacement capacitymust be provided by vessel owners in the pelagicsegment in respect of works previouslyclaimed as “safety tonnage”.Question No. 181 answered with QuestionNo. 174.Broadcasting Development.182. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif he has met or intends to meet representativesof the independent television production sectoror its representative body, Screen ProducersIreland, regarding their concerns on the developmentof broadcasting here; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [6002/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): I havereceived a request from Screen Producers Irelandfor a meeting and I am considering that request.Job Losses.183. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif his attention has been drawn to the number ofjobs lost in Gaeltacht-based companies supplyingprogramming for TG4 in recent years; his viewson the reasons for those losses; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [6003/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): Decisionson the commissioning of programmes are amatter for TG4. I have no role in the matter.Broadcasting Legislation.184. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister forCommunications, Marine and Natural Resourcesif he intends to address the issue of ownership ofintellectual property rights in television programmesand formats in the forthcoming BroadcastingBill; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [6004/05]Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey): Work iscontinuing on the development of legislative proposalsthat will form the basis of a new BroadcastingBill. The priority issues to be addressedby the legislative proposals are the establishmentof a single content regulator for both private andpublic service broadcasters as recommended bythe forum on broadcasting; the establishment ofRTE as a commercial company under the CompaniesActs 1963 to 2003; the provision of a statutorymechanism for future adjustments to thelevel of the television licence fee; and thedevelopment of the right of reply mechanismallowing persons whose reputation and goodname have been damaged by an assertion ofincorrect facts in a television or radio programmeto gain redress.I have no immediate plans to address the issueof ownership of intellectual property rights intelevision programmes and formats. However, allaspects of broadcasting policy will be consideredin the development of the legislative proposals.Human Rights Issues.185. Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister forForeign Affairs if a person (details supplied) wasin charge when a young unarmed Irish citizen wasshot dead by security forces while trying to givehimself up; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5542/05]Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern):The information I have is that the circumstancesof the death in question were investigated underthe supervision of the Police Complaints Authorityin Britain. The resulting report was sent tothe Crown Prosecution Service which concludedthat there was insufficient evidence on which tobase a prosecution of the police officer involved.The subsequent inquest concluded with a verdictby the jury of “lawful killing”.Overseas Development Aid.186. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for ForeignAffairs the grant aid advanced to Aid ActionIreland for the years 2003 and 2004; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5558/05]Minister of State at the Department of ForeignAffairs (Mr. C. Lenihan): Action Aid Irelandreceived the following support from the Government’sprogramme of assistance to developingcountries:2003 2004\ \NGO Co-FinancingBlock Grants 800,000 800,000HIV/Aids PartnershipScheme (HAPS) 499,512 277,371.60Development Education 11,165 16,000Total 1,310,677 1,093,371.60187. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for ForeignAffairs his views on a submission (detailssupplied); his plans to assist in overcoming the

413 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 414stated problems; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5953/05]Minister of State at the Department of ForeignAffairs (Mr. C. Lenihan): The letter referred toin the Deputy’s question concerns the challengesfor Ireland and the international community in2005 in achieving the millennium developmentgoals, the UN target for official developmentassistance, the international trade agenda,insecurity, in particular in Darfur in Sudan, andthe need to tackle the global arms trade.On the millennium development goals, MDGs,I am keenly aware of the need to accelerate progressif the goals are to be achieved by 2015,particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In preparationfor the United Nations high level event in Septemberwhich will assess global progress towardsmeeting the MDGs, the EU has decided to takeon a leadership role by promoting initiatives onaid financing, policy coherence and a specialinitiative on Africa. Ireland has been a leadingproponent of a strong EU role in promoting theMDGs, including during our 2004 EU Presidency,and we have submitted a national report to theEuropean Commission on our contributiontowards meeting the MDGs.With regard to overseas aid, the allocation for2005 provides for an increase of \70 million inGovernment spending on official developmentassistance, ODA, this year. This will bring totalGovernment aid to the developing world toapproximately \545 million in 2005, the highestallocation in the 30-year history of the aid programme.Further increases of \65 million will begiven in each of the years 2006 and 2007. Thismeans that over the three years from 2005 to2007, \1.8 billion will be spent by Ireland ondevelopment assistance. The welcome advantageof these multi-annual commitments, recognisedand recommended by the last OECD review ofour aid programme, is the ability to plan on along-term basis and to give our partners in sub-Saharan Africa and elsewhere predictability offunding.The Government remains strongly committedto achieving the UN target for expenditure onODA. The issue of how best to meet the targetand in what timeframe is under ongoing review.In the coming months also, Development CooperationIreland will launch a consultative processthat will lead to a White Paper on developmentassistance. All interested stakeholders arebeing invited to submit views.On the issue of trade, Ireland has constantlystressed the needs of developing countries in thenegotiations on the Doha development agenda.The former Minister of State with responsibilityfor development co-operation and human rights,Deputy Kitt, took part in Ireland’s ministerialdelegation to the world trade talks in Cancun inSeptember 2003. At EU ministerial level, Irelandhas stressed the need to take on board the concernsof developing countries, including in thearea of special and differential treatment. TheEuropean Commission is engaged in negotiationswith the African, Caribbean and Pacific, ACP,states to conclude regional economic partnershipagreements, EPAs, which will enter into force atthe beginning of 2008. While a number of pointsof divergence remain to be resolved, Ireland supportsthe EPAs since they are intended to promotesustainable development and poverty eradicationin the ACP countries.The situation in Darfur in Sudan is a source ofparticular concern. The United Nations and theSecurity Council have been centrally involved inefforts to address the Darfur crisis and with thisin mind are, inter alia, assessing the possibility ofstrengthening the implementation of the UNarms embargo and broadening it to include theGovernment of Sudan. At national level, the IrishGovernment will continue to use all avenuesopen to it to urge action in addressing thehumanitarian, security and political challengeswhich exist in Darfur. In 2004, Ireland providedmore than \10 million in humanitarian support toSudan generally, of which \6.38 million went toDarfur. Additional funding will be delivered in2005.With regard to a global arms trade treaty aimedat preventing arms transfers which underminehuman rights and sustainable development, I amaware of a process led by a number of nongovernmentalorganisations, NGOs, includingAmnesty International and Oxfam, aimed at theconclusion of an international arms trade treaty.This treaty is intended to be a legally bindingagreement with core principles and mechanismsrelating to international transfers of arms. Whilework on the drafting of the text is still ongoing, itis a promising initiative and I commend theNGOs concerned for their efforts. My Departmentwill continue to be associated with the processand will closely monitor developments.Officials from my Department are attending ameeting on this subject in Tanzania this week.International Agreements.188. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs the nature of contact his Departmenthas had at EU 133 committee meetings inview of the impact of liberalisation of trade withIreland’s priority aid countries; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [6022/05]189. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs if the Government will press itsEU partners for increased co-operation withACP countries to attain an extension of theCotonou waiver at the WTO or to change GATTArticle XXIV in order for the EU to continue togive preferential access to poor countries; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[6023/05]190. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs the assessment his Departmenthas undertaken concerning the impact upon agriculturaland industrial producers in Ireland’s

415 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 416[Mr. Eamon Ryan.]priority aid countries of the EPAs; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [6024/05]191. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs the details of any EPA impactassessments on Irish priority aid countries, that is,the level of unemployment expected, the natureof industries to be adversely affected and thecapacity of these countries to adjust to EU competitionwithin the transition period; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [6025/05]192. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs the communications, meetingsand other representations his Department hashad with the Department of Enterprise, Tradeand Employment on the liberalisation of marketsunder the proposed EPAs; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [6026/05]193. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs the concerns his Department hasraised with the Department of Enterprise, Tradeand Employment over the opening up of prioritycountry markets to EU competition; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [6027/05]194. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs the areas of priority countrymarkets his Department has suggested should beexcluded from liberalisation, in EU and interdepartmentalmeetings; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [6028/05]195. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs his views on the regional groupingsrequired under EPAs; his views on the factthat Zambia is forced by this process to decidebetween SADC and COMESA, two regionalgroupings in which it has invested years ofenergy; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [6029/05]196. Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister forForeign Affairs his views on criticisms that, withthe EPAs, the EU is bringing about an effectiveredrawing of the economic map of Africa; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[6030/05]Minister of State at the Department of ForeignAffairs (Mr. C. Lenihan): I propose to take QuestionNos. 188 to 196, inclusive, together.The legally binding Cotonou Agreementbetween the African, Caribbean and Pacific,ACP, states and the European Union providesfor the negotiation of economic partnershipagreements, EPAs, between the parties. Sincetrade is a European Community competence, theEuropean Commission negotiates the EPAsbetween the EU and six regional groupings ofACP states on behalf of the member states. TheCommission provides member states with regularupdates on the progress of the negotiations. TheEPAs are to enter into force by 1 January 2008.The EPAs are first and foremost instrumentsfor development that will foster the smooth andgradual integration of ACP states into the worldeconomy with due regard for their politicalchoices and development priorities, thereby promotingtheir sustainable development and contributingto poverty eradication in the ACP countries.They combine trade and wider developmentissues in a unified framework while takingaccount of the specific economic, social andenvironmental circumstances of each regionalgroup and its component states. By enlargingACP markets through regional integration and bymaking regulatory frameworks in these countriesmore transparent, EPAs can create an environmentconducive to the private sector and thusfunction as a vehicle for long-term economicdevelopment.According to Article 37(7) of the CotonouAgreement, the negotiations on the EPAs:shall take account of the level of developmentand the socio-economic impact of trademeasures on ACP countries, and their capacityto adapt and adjust their economies to the liberalisationprocess. Negotiations will thereforebe as flexible as possible in establishing theduration of a sufficient transitional period, thefinal product coverage, taking into account sensitivesectors, and the degree of asymmetry interms of timetable for tariff dismantlement,while remaining in conformity with WTO rulesthen prevailing.While Ireland, like the other member states, doesnot participate in the ongoing EPA negotiations,we are generally satisfied that the Commission isdischarging its mandate in accordance with theseprovisions of the Cotonou Agreement. It is clearfrom the most recent EU-ACP joint report ofOctober last on the state of play of regional EPAnegotiations that the process with the six regionsis conducted with considerable concern for itsimpact on the economies of the ACP countries.As in all trade negotiations, the EPA negotiationhas brought to light differences of approachbetween the parties in a number of areas. It is tobe hoped that as the talks progress, these divergencescan be resolved in accordance with theprinciples and objectives underlying the negotiations.However, it is not helpful for the successof the EPA project at this stage to suggest takingaction at the WTO for a continuation beyond2008 of the preferential access of ACP countriesto EU markets.All the programme countries in Ireland’s bilateralaid programme — Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique,Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Timor-Leste — are ACP states. Our underlyingapproach in those countries is complementary tothat of the EPAs in that we are sensitive to theneed to help build the economic architecture inthese least developed countries so that they willbe able to avail of an improving internationaltrading environment. To that end, Ireland worksboth with its partner governments and with otherdonor countries to ensure a real focus on economicdevelopment and employment generation

417 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 418and on helping to equip our African partners topursue access for their goods and progressivelythe means to avail of that access.Within Ireland, the Department of Enterprise,Trade and Employment has primary responsibilityfor trade policy. An officer of that Departmentrepresents Ireland at meetings of the 133committee. The committee normally meets oncea month at the level of full members. An officerof the Department of Foreign Affairs also attendsmeetings of the committee on a regular basis.Given the importance for Ireland of trade andtrade relations with other countries, includingthose which are programme countries forIreland’s development co-operation programme,there is close co-operation with the Departmentof Enterprise, Trade and Employment and otherDepartments, including the Department of Agricultureand Food, in preparing for meetings ofthe 133 committee and on questions relating totrade generally, including the EPA negotiations.Swimming Pool Projects.197. Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Arts,Sport and Tourism if there is money available orif he will make money available to refurbish theGus Healy swimming pool in Cork; if he has hadany representation on this project from Cork CityCouncil; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5620/05]Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr.O’Donoghue): Under the local authority swimmingpools programme, which is administered bythe Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism,grant aid is provided towards the capital costs ofnew pools or the refurbishment of existing pools.The closing date for receipt of applications underthe current programme was 31 July 2000. Noapplication was made in respect of the Gus Healyswimming pool in Douglas before that date.The programme’s priority to support the proposalson hand. New proposals for swimmingpools are not being considered at this time. TheDepartment is conducting an expenditure reviewof the swimming pools programme, which isexamining, among other things, how the programmehas worked to date, the benefits whichhave accrued to areas where pools have beenbuilt under the existing programme and whatamendments, if any, are required to ensure theeffective and efficient delivery of the programme.The review is expected to be completed by themiddle of the year. The question of re-openingthe programme can be considered when thereview has been completed.In a letter dated 16 December 2004, Cork CityCouncil requested a meeting with me to discussgrant aid towards the refurbishment of the publicswimming pool in Douglas. Due to a heavy scheduleof commitments, I am not in a position tomeet the delegation at this time. However, therequest will be kept on file and I will be in touchwith the council if an opportunity arises for sucha meeting in the future.198. Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for Arts,Sport and Tourism when funding will be grantedfor a project (details supplied) in CountyLaois. [5931/05]Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr.O’Donoghue): The proposal to refurbish Portarlingtonswimming pool is one of a number ofswimming pool projects within the local authorityswimming pools programme being considered bythe Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. Thefour stages of the programme are preliminaryreport, contract document, tender approval andconstruction. The Portarlington project is at contractdocument stage. The question of this projectmoving to the next stage in the programme isbeing considered in the Department in the contextof the funding available in the Department’smulti-annual capital envelope for the local authorityswimming pools programme.199. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts,Sport and Tourism the number of public orprivate public partnership swimming pools here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5945/05]200. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts,Sport and Tourism the number of public orprivate public partnership swimming pools here;the towns in Ireland which have such a facility;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5946/05]201. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts,Sport and Tourism his views on the need for theDepartment to publish guidelines for publicprivate partnership provision of swimming pools;if, pending the publication of these guidelines, itis permissible for a local authority to proceedwith plans for a public private partnership providedswimming pool in its administrative area;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5947/05]Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr.O’Donoghue): I propose to take Questions Nos.199 to 201, inclusive, together.Under the local authority swimming poolsprogramme, local authorities can seek grantassistance in respect of swimming pool projectsdeveloped by them or in conjunction with communityor private sector interests. An expenditurereview of the local authority swimming poolsprogramme is under way in the Department ofArts, Sport and Tourism and is due to be completedby the middle of the year. As part of thereview, all data on the number and location ofswimming pools promoted by local authoritiesthroughout the country, some of which date backto the 1960s, is being updated. The Department’sexisting records are not complete because theyrelate to projects which were grant aided,whereas local authorities have always been ableto construct swimming pools without reference tothe Department. Local authorities have not been

419 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 420[Mr. O’Donoghue.]required to update the Department on the statusof grant aided swimming pool projects after theyhave opened to the public. The expenditurereview is seeking to update all records in thisarea.Some 55 projects are being dealt with under thecurrent round of the swimming pools programme,which closed for applications on 31 July 2000.Some 25 of those projects have been grant aided,of which 15 have been completed. The completedprojects are located in Arklow, Courtown-Gorey,Dundalk, Ennis, Enniscorthy, Monaghan, Navan,Wicklow, Roscommon, two in Tralee, Ballinasloe,Finglas, Grove Island in Limerick city andClonmel. Ten projects are under construction, inBallymun, Ballyfermot, Cobh, Youghal, Churchfieldin Cork city, Drogheda, Letterkenny, Jobstownin south County Dublin, Monaghan townand Tuam.Some 30 projects are at various stages of theprogramme. Two projects are at tender stage, inKillarney and Ballybunion. Some 13 projects areat contract document stage, in Askeaton, Athy,Claremorris, Clondalkin, Dunmanway, Glenalbynin Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Longford,Naas, Portarlington, Portlaoise, Skerries, Thurlesand Tullamore. Some 15 projects are at preliminaryor feasibility report stage, in Ballaghaderreen,Ballybofey, Birr, Buncrana, Bray, Castlebar,Clara, Dundrum in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Edenderry, Ferrybank in Wexford,Greystones, Kilkenny, Loughrea, New Ross andRoscrea.Private sector involvement in the programmeis being considered in the context of the expenditurereview. The work of the interdepartmentalworking group, which was established in 1999 toadvise on key issues relating to the operation of apublic private partnership approach to swimmingpools, will be taken into account as part of thereview process. The experience of local authorities,national legislative and policy developmentsin the area of PPPs will also bepertinent.The arrangements and accompanying guidelinesin place for PPPs are geared towards majorand complex capital projects with significantongoing maintenance requirements — projectswith a capital cost of \20 million or more. ThePPP model should be used where it is appropriateand where it can deliver value for money. Themodel would not be appropriate where the transactioncosts of pursuing a PPP are disproportionateto the value of the project. The policyframework for PPPs in the local government sectorissued by the Department of the Environment,Heritage and Local Government and theimplementing guidelines issued by the Departmentof Finance are detailed and complex inimplementation terms.The project costs in the local authority swimmingpools programme are in the region of \8million and are not seen, therefore, as being ofsufficiently high cost to justify the extra resourcesinvolved in pursuing a formal PPP approach. TheDepartment of Finance confirmed some time agothat there were several considerations whichwould militate against a PPP approach to thisprogramme and that pool projects do not strictlycomply with the definition of a viable PPP interms of scale and optimal transfer of risk to theprivate sector.It is important to consider that the swimmingpools programme is just a grant scheme. Localauthorities can devise funding and operationalarrangements as they see fit to complement thegrant element. Experience shows there is potentialfor private sector involvement in the provisionand operation of local authority swimmingpool facilities. Many local authorities are exploringvarious ways of involving the private sector intheir projects. The Department of Arts, Sport andTourism does not object to the involvement ofthe private sector, as long as the generallyaccepted operational considerations of a publicpool form part of the project. The considerationsinvolve, for example, non-membership pay perswim access, concessionary rates as part of socialinclusion measures, etc.Sports Capital Programme.202. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts,Sport and Tourism if he will approve an applicationby a centre (details supplied) in CountyLongford under the grants capital programme;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[6068/05]Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr.O’Donoghue): The national lottery funded sportscapital programme, which is administered by theDepartment of Arts, Sport and Tourism, allocatesfunding to sporting and community organisationsat local, regional and national level throughoutthe country. The programme is advertised on anannual basis. Applications for funding under the2005 programme were invited in press advertisementson 5 and 6 December last. The closing datefor the receipt of applications was 4 February2005. All applications, including one from theclub in question, are being evaluated against theprogramme’s assessment criteria, which are outlinedin the programme’s guidelines, terms andconditions. I intend to announce the grant allocationsunder the programme as soon as possibleafter the assessment process has been completed.Workplace Inspections.203. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the numberof workplace inspections that were carried out bythe labour inspectorate in 2004; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5572/05]204. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the numberof workplace inspections that were carried out by

421 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 422the labour inspectorate in 2003; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5573/05]Minister of State at the Department ofEnterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr.Killeen): I propose to take Questions Nos. 203and 204 together.The number of workplace inspections or visitsundertaken by the labour inspectorate in 2003was 7,168. In 2004, the number of workplaceinspections or visits undertaken was 5,160. Thereduced numbers of workplace inspections in2004 relates to the demands placed on the staffof the inspectorate by their work on the successfulIrish Presidency of the EU in the first halfof the year and the review of the mandate andresourcing of the labour inspectorate requiredunder commitment 12.4 of the mid-term reviewof Sustaining Progress.Job Losses.205. Mr. Neville asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the progressin establishing a replacement industry for a company(details supplied). [5579/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): The company has decided toclose its chicken processing plant on 4 Marchnext. There is overcapacity in the competitivechicken processing market. There is a trendtowards consolidation into larger processingunits. Further investment could not be contemplatedbecause the plant was deemed to be smallby industry standards. I understand thatemployees will be given an opportunity to takeup alternative positions in Charleville, where amajor expansion is taking place, and Listowel,where demand for workers is increasing. To get areplacement industry into the plant, it wouldneed to be decommissioned and fumigated andto be made available as a vacant unit. ShannonDevelopment, which is responsible for industrialdevelopment in the area, is ready and willing toexplore and consider eligible business proposalsfrom current employees or other parties. A smallgroup has been established to represent the community’sinterest. Shannon Development and thelocal county enterprise board are working withthe group on the future development of the area.Bullying in the Workplace.206. Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the progressbeen made within his Department on the proposalto create a new statutory body to investigatebullying in the workplace; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5600/05]Minister of State at the Department ofEnterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr.Killeen): I understand that the expert advisorygroup established to look at measures for the preventionof workplace bullying and to identifyimprovements is finalising its report and will submitit to me shortly. I am committed to publishingthe advisory group’s report. I look forward to thereport, which I hope will be a useful input to theformulation of a policy to deal with workplacebullying.Job Creation.207. Mr. Fleming asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the positionon a year by year basis for each of the years from1998 to 2004, the number of jobs created with theassistance of Enterprise Ireland for each of theseyears; the number of Enterprise Ireland assistedjobs in existence in firms in Laois at 31 December2004. [5603/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): The following table providesdata on jobs created with the assistance ofEnterprise Ireland between 1998 and 2004. Thetable also provides data on jobs assisted byEnterprise Ireland in County Laois in 2004.All Counties 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004Total full-time jobs 131,469 138,838 147,263 149,856 146,978 143,432 142,115Gains 12,712 16,941 18,897 14,670 14,020 12,300 11,898Losses −8,288 −9,572 −10,472 −12,077 −16,898 −15,846 −13,215Net change 4,424 7,369 8,425 2,593 −2,878 −3,546 −1,317County LaoisTotal full-time jobs 1,292 1,397 1,252 1,416 1,361 1,352 1,263Gains 103 194 35 260 101 67 86Losses −33 −89 −180 −96 −156 −76 −175Net change 70 105 −145 164 −55 −9 −89208. Mr. Fleming asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the position,on a year by year basis from 1998 to 2004, on thenumber of job losses in IDA Ireland-supportedfirms in County Laois; the number of new jobscreated with IDA Ireland assistance in firms ineach of those years; the number of firms inCounty Laois with IDA Ireland-assisted employment;the number of IDA Ireland-assisted jobs inCounty Laois at 31 December 2004; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5604/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): IDA Ireland is the agencywith statutory responsibility for the attraction of

423 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 424[Mr. Martin.]foreign direct investment, FDI, to Ireland, includingits regions. Data on job creation are compiledfrom an annual employment survey carried outby Forfás. County data for 2004 will not be avail-able until mid-2005. The number of IDA Irelandsupportedcompanies in County Laois and thenumbers of jobs created and lost in those companiesin each of the years 1998 to 2003 are setout in the following tabular statement.Year 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003Number of IDA Supported Companies 8 5 5 6 5 5Number of Job losses in IDA Supported Companies 108 393 34 59 43 17Number of jobs created in IDA Supported Companies 7 23 41 13 30 2Grocery Industry.209. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment his views onwhether the abolition of the groceries orderwould result in job losses in the retail sector; ifbelow-cost selling will continue to be bannedhere; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5847/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): The consumer strategy groupwas established to deliberate on a wide range ofconsumer matters. I am awaiting the report ofgroup and I expect that it will contain recommendationson the groceries order. On receipt ofthe report, I will consider the group’s findings inconsultation with my Government colleagues andinterested parties before deciding what action isappropriate.Job Creation.210. Mr. Kenny asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the numberof IDA Ireland-supported firms, which were setup here in 2004; the number of existing IDAIreland-supported firms which increased thenumber of Irish workers they employ; the numberof such increase; the location and number of newjobs created in each firm; the proportion of thesenew start-ups which was located in the BMWregion; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5879/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): IDA Ireland is the agencywith statutory responsibility for the attraction offoreign direct investment, FDI, to Ireland and itsregions. In its 2004 end-of-year statement, IDAIreland indicated that 2004 was the best yearsince 2000 in terms of the quality, depth and valueof the investment decisions won. It indicated thatan estimated 10,800 new jobs were created.However, more precise data on job creation arecompiled from an annual employment survey carriedout by Forfás, and final figures for 2004 willnot be available until mid-2005.According to the 2003 survey, which was publishedin mid-2004, 21 new greenfield projectssupported by IDA Ireland started operations duringthe year, of which one third was in the BMWregion. The survey also indicates that 426 existingcompanies created 8,673 new jobs. Employmentdata on individual companies are provided on aconfidential basis for survey purposes only.Industrial Development.211. Mr. Kenny asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the workundertaken by Enterprise Ireland in 2004 in facilitatingthe expansion of Dublin companies toregional locations; the details of firms which relocatedin 2004; the number of employees who relocated;and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5933/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): The implementation ofregional development strategy is a day-to-daymatter for the industrial development agenciesconcerned and not one in which I am directlyinvolved. However, in line with stated Governmentpolicy, Enterprise Ireland seeks to encouragea balanced spread of regional development.Enterprise Ireland’s strategy in this regardincludes encouraging companies, where relevant,to locate outside Dublin and its environs to lessdeveloped regions.One of the ways in which Enterprise Irelandfacilitates client companies that wish to relocateto regional locations is by making it financiallymore attractive for them to establish or grow outsideDublin and the mid-east region. Forexample, Enterprise Ireland provides higher levelsof funding assistance for companies that areexpanding or establishing a business in the BMWregion. In the BMW region, the grant aid rate forbuilding competitiveness is 45% of eligibleexpenditure, while in the south-east, south-westand mid-west regions it is 30%. In the Dublin andmid-east regions, the rate is 25%.The availability of suitable building infrastructurecan be an important factor in encouragingcompanies to expand outside Dublin. EnterpriseIreland makes its client companies aware of availablebusiness space in the regions and conductsitineraries to regional locations for companieswho might be encouraged to relocate.In this regard, the institutes of technology arekey players in Enterprise Ireland’s regionaldevelopment strategy. They are recognised as avital component of the innovation system in eachregion. Since 2001, Enterprise Ireland hasapproved funding of almost \25 million for 11

425 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 426regionally based incubation units in the institutesof technology to encourage knowledge-basedcompanies to locate therein.Enterprise Ireland has also approved fundingof \24 million for the provision and operation ofover 100 regionally based community enterprisecentres. Community enterprise centres areregarded as key partners in the development ofnew enterprises and enterprise culture in theregions.Ultimately, the choice of location for new andexpanding Irish businesses is influenced by manyfactors, including the promoter’s home base,proximity to markets, availability of physical,educational and research infrastructure, access toraw materials and availability of skilled labourand research facilities, to name but a few. In lightof Irish promoters’ tendency to locate close totheir roots, and taking account of all the otherfactors, Irish companies have shown themselvesto be less mobile than their foreign counterpartsboth at start-up and expansion stages.In 2004, Lir Chocolates Limited moved fromDublin and relocated to Navan, County Meath,when moving to bigger premises. It is not possiblefor Enterprise Ireland to verify if the sameemployees moved with the company to its newlocation.Retail Sector Developments.212. Mr. Wall asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment the positionregarding a submission (details supplied); theaction he intends to take to alleviate the concernsraised; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5944/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): The concerns raised in thesubmission on changes to the retail planningguidelines are the responsibility of the Ministerfor the Environment, Heritage and LocalGovernment. Accordingly, I have arranged toforward a copy of the submission to that Ministerfor his attention.On the groceries order, I am awaiting thereport of the consumer strategy group, which wasestablished last year to deliberate on a wide rangeof consumer matters. I hope to receive thegroup’s report soon and I expect that it will pronounceon the groceries order in its findings. Iwill consider the group’s recommendations inconsultation with my Government colleagues andinterested parties before deciding what action isappropriate.Metrology Service.213. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment further toQuestion No. 124 of 16 December 2004, the progresson the inspection regime under the metrologylaw; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5988/05]Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment(Mr. Martin): I understand from the legalmetrology service of the National StandardsAuthority of Ireland that measures are being progressedto facilitate the early resumption ofinspection in meat plants. An issue that remainsto be resolved relates to the contracting of hauliersfor the carriage of the necessary test weightsto and from different premises. Legal aspectsrelating to the establishment of such contracts arebeing considered and it is expected that this issuewill be clarified shortly, following which quotationsfor the provision of haulage services willbe sought with a view to resumption of inspectionsshortly thereafter.Construction Industry.214. Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister forEnterprise, Trade and Employment if there areworkers at the Dublin Port tunnel project working12 hour shifts at \45 per day; and if he willinvestigate the matter. [6000/05]Minister of State at the Department ofEnterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr.Killeen): The Department has not received anycomplaint about working conditions at theDublin Port tunnel and, accordingly, I am notaware of any workers on the project working 12-hour shifts at \45 per day.The wages and employment conditions ofworkers employed in the construction industryare governed by the Registered EmploymentAgreement (Construction Industry Wages andConditions of Employment) Variation Order,which is enforced by the labour inspectorate ofmy Department. If the Deputy is aware of evidencethat particular employers are in breach ofthe employment regulation order, I ask that thisevidence be brought to the attention of thelabour inspectorate.Pension Provisions.215. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social andFamily Affairs if a person (details supplied) inCounty Mayo has been awarded the old age noncontributorypension. [5550/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The person concerned applied to myDepartment for this pension in January 2005. Followingan investigation of his circumstances by asocial welfare inspector, a deciding officer determinedthat he was not eligible because his means,deriving from both a farm and capital, exceededthe maximum weekly statutory limit. He was notifiedof this decision as well as his right of appealagainst it to the independent social welfareappeal’s office.Under social welfare legislation, decisions onclaims must be made by deciding officers andappeals officers. These officers are statutorilyappointed and I have no role in regard to makingsuch decisions.

427 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 428Social Welfare Code.216. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs if he has set up a workinggroup to review the position of lone parents andrelevant social welfare payments; when the groupwas established; the frequency with which it hasmet; the names of the members of the group;when it will complete its review; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5551/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The Department has been involved ina number of reviews and studies related to theone-parent family payment. These have includedthe Department’s review of the one-parent familypayment, regarding which a report was publishedin October 2001, and participation in an internationalOECD study on reconciling work andfamily life, entitled Babies and Bosses, VolumeII of which contains the findings on Ireland. TheDepartment has also assisted in NESF studies onlone parents. Relevant research has been carriedout under the Department’s family research programmeand by Combat Poverty Agency, theESRI and other bodies in this general area.In November 2004, following discussion at theCabinet committee on social inclusion, it wasdecided that priority be given to specificallyexamining obstacles to employment for loneparents.The aforementioned OECD report shows thatemployment participation among lone parents inIreland is relatively low compared to that in otherOECD countries. Jobless households are particularlyat risk of poverty and the fact that loneparents and their children are among the groupsmost at risk may, in part at least, be attributed tothe relatively low level of employment participation.It was therefore concluded that action inthis area would be a key element in the contextof the special initiative on ending child povertyunder Sustaining Progress.This task was entrusted to the senior officials’group on social inclusion, which reports to theCabinet committee. The senior officials’ grouphas set up a small steering group to examine theissue in detail and prepare a draft report for considerationby the group and, when completed, theCabinet committee. Both the senior officials’group and steering committee are chaired by theDepartment of the Taoiseach, and the secretariatto the latter group is provided by the familyaffairs unit in my Department. The Departmentof Finance and the office for social inclusion inmy Department are also represented on the steeringgroup. Representatives of other Departmentswill participate as necessary.The steering group held its first meetingrecently and will meet on a regular basis with aview to completing its draft report by mid-year.It is expected that the final report will bepresented to the Cabinet committee on socialinclusion in the second half of the year.The report will contain an analysis of obstaclesto employment for lone parents which may arisein current support arrangements, includingincome support, education and training, employment,health, housing and accommodation, withrecommendations on how these obstacles couldbe overcome and what further supports may berequired to facilitate lone parents in taking upemployment, including information provision.Special account will be taken of the findings ofa report that NESC has been commissioned toprepare, under Sustaining Progress, on the possiblemerging the child dependant allowance,CDA, with the family income supplement.A list of the members of the steering group onlone parents is given in Appendix A.Appendix A: Members of Steering Group on Lone ParentsMs Mary DoyleMs Eileen KeoghMr. Michael ScanlonMr. Dermot QuigleyMr. Gerry ManganMs Orlaigh QuinnDepartment of the Taoiseach(Chair)Department of the TaoiseachDepartment of FinanceDepartment of FinanceOffice for Social InclusionOffice for Social InclusionThe secretary to the group is Mr. HeberMcMahon, Department of Social and FamilyAffairs.Work Permits.217. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Maltesenationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5562/05]218. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of nationals ofHungary who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5563/05]219. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Latviannationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5564/05]220. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Polishnationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5565/05]221. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Estoniannationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to workhere. [5566/05]

429 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 430222. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Lithuaniannationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5567/05]223. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Sloveniannationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5568/05]224. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Slovakiannationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5569/05]225. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of Cypriotnationals who have applied for PPS numberssince 1 May 2004 to permit them to work here;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5570/05]226. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of nationals of theCzech Republic who have applied for PPSnumbers since 1 May 2004 to permit them towork here; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5571/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): I propose to take Questions Nos. 217to 226, inclusive, together.The total numbers of personal public servicenumbers issued to each of the nationalitiesquoted by the Deputy in the period 1 May 2004to 11 February 2005 are as follows:Malta 152Hungary 2,029Latvia 6,885Poland 29,731Estonia 1,842Lithuania 13,439Slovenia 75Slovakia 5,889Cyprus 26Czech Republic 3,503The personal public service number is the citizen’sunique reference number for all dealingswith Departments and public bodies. Personalpublic service numbers are issued automaticallyto children born in Ireland. Others requiring apersonal public service number must apply at oneof the Department’s local offices.When applying for a personal public servicenumber, applicants are asked to complete anapplication form and supply documentation toestablish their identity. Their personal public servicenumbers are usually issued to them, by post,within five days.Social Welfare Benefits.227. Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs if a person (details supplied)in County Limerick is entitled to some form ofpayment from his Department to prevent unduehardship; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5629/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The person concerned initially madean application to my Department for disabilitybenefit. His application was unsuccessful as hedid not have any PRSI contributions paid in therelevant qualifying period. He subsequentlyapplied for assistance under the supplementarywelfare allowance scheme which is administeredon my behalf by the community welfare divisionof the Health Service Executive.Subject to certain conditions, including a meanstest, the scheme provides for the payment of aweekly allowance to an eligible person whosemeans are insufficient to meet his or her basicneeds and those of his or her dependants.The western region of the Health ServiceExecutive has advised that the person concernedwas refused basic supplementary welfare allowanceon means grounds, as the level of his householdincome is in excess of the supplementarywelfare allowance rate appropriate to his familycircumstances.The executive has further advised that it hassuggested to the person concerned that his partner,who is in employment, should apply to myDepartment under the family income supplementscheme, which provides assistance to families inemployment on low earnings.Social Welfare Appeals.228. Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the reason the Health ServiceExecutive, southern region, is refusing to pay supplementarywelfare to a person (details supplied)in County Cork; if their appeal against thedecision not to allow them unemployment assistancehas been heard. [5716/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Payment of unemployment assistanceto the person concerned was terminated by myDepartment in November 2004 on the groundsthat he was not genuinely seeking work. Heappealed this decision to the social welfareappeals office, and an appeals officer will reviewhis case as soon as possible.The person concerned subsequently applied forassistance under the supplementary welfareallowance scheme which is administered onbehalf of my Department by the community welfaredivision of the Health Service Executive. Thesouthern region of the Health Service Executive

431 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 432[Mr. Brennan.]has advised that, having assessed his circumstances,the person concerned was awarded basicsupplementary welfare allowance in December2004 on the condition that it would be for a limitedperiod to allow him a further opportunity tomake reasonable efforts to secure employment.He failed to make reasonable efforts subsequentlyto seek employment and payment ofhis supplementary welfare allowance was terminatedas a result at the end of January 2005. Hewas unsuccessful in appealing against thisdecision to the executive’s area appeals officerand at his request his case has been referred tothe social welfare appeals office for review.The executive has further advised that the wifeof the person concerned is in part-time employment.She was absent from work through illnessrecently and received a reduced rate of disabilitybenefit from my Department. In addition to thisbenefit she received assistance under the supplementarywelfare allowance scheme to ensurethat the overall household income was maintainedat the supplementary welfare allowancelevel appropriate to the family circumstances.Decentralisation Programme.229. Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the situation regarding thedecentralisation of jobs to Carrick-on-Shannon,County Leitrim, and to Sligo; the timetable fordecentralisation to Carrick-on-Shannon andSligo; and the number of persons who haveapplied for each centre. [5753/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Under the Government decentralisationprogramme announced as part of budget2004, my Department is required to relocate 100posts to Sligo and 225 posts to Carrick-on-Shannon. According to figures received by myDepartment from the central applications facilitythe number of applicants for Sligo and Carrickon-Shannonis 69 and 280 respectively. These figuresrepresent applications made through thecentral applications facility before the priorityapplication date of 7 September 2004.The decentralisation implementation groupreport to the Minister for Finance of 19 November2004 made recommendations on thelocations and organisations to be included in thefirst phase of moves. In the case of my Department,Sligo was included in the first phase ofmoves and Carrick-on-Shannon was recommendedas a potential location for an early move.The estimated date given in the report for thecompletion of building works in Sligo is the thirdquarter of 2006 and in Carrick-on-Shannon thesecond quarter of 2007.The Office of Public Works has been chargedwith securing suitable accommodation in thedecentralised locations. It has confirmed to myDepartment that the planned extension to thepension services office in Sligo will accommodatestaff relocating under the decentralisation programme.It is expected that the contractors will beon site by mid-year, with completion scheduledfor early 2007.In the meantime, my Department has initiatedplans, subject to the availability of suitable temporaryaccommodation to relocate the supplementarywelfare allowance section to Sligothis year. The Office of Public Works is in theprocess of identifying suitable accommodation inCarrick-on-Shannon. Detailed plans, includingtimescales will be completed once a site hasbeen procured.Social Welfare Benefits.230. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the reason recipients of socialwelfare are entitled to child benefit for childrenup to 21 years in full-time education, while personswho are in employment are entitled to drawchild benefit only for children up to 19 years ofage in full-time education; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5759/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Child benefit is payable in respect ofchildren up to the age of 16 years and continuesto be paid in respect of children up to age 19years while they remain in full-time education, orwhere they have a physical or mental disability.Payment of child benefit does not extend beyonda child’s 19th birthday. Child benefit is payable inrespect of all children whether or not the parentsare in employment or in receipt of social welfarepayments.Child dependant allowance is an additionalpayment made to social welfare recipients inrespect of each qualified child dependant. In thecase of short-term payments this allowance ispayable in respect of a child who is under 18 yearsof age.Payment of the allowance continues to age 22years where the person is in receipt of a longtermsocial welfare payment, or a short-termsocial welfare payment for six months or moreand the child is in full-time education.231. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of persons inreceipt of single parent payments in the Dublin11 area; their breakdown by category; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5760/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The number of people in receipt of aone-parent family payment with an address in theDublin 11 postal district is 2,467. The breakdownby category is unmarried parents, 2,079; separatedspouses, 376; widowed persons, 11; and prisoners’spouses, one.232. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs the number of persons inreceipt of social welfare allowances. [5845/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The objective of the supplementary

433 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 434welfare allowance scheme, which is administeredon behalf of my Department by the communitywelfare division of the Health Service Executive,is to provide assistance to eligible people in theState whose means are insufficient to meet theirbasic needs.In addition to a basic weekly allowance, assistancemay be provided in the form of supplementswhich may be paid in respect of needs such asrent, mortgage interest, diet or special heatingrequirements or in any other case where itappears to the executive that the circumstancesof the case so warrant.A single payment can also be made to meetan exceptional need or in urgent situations. Suchpayments are made at the discretion of the executivetaking into account the particular circumstancesof a case.Details of the numbers of recipients are summarisedin the following table:Number of Recipients of Supplementary Welfare Allowanceat 11 February 2005.RecipientsBasic Supplementary Welfare Allowance 30,048Supplement in respect of:Rent 57,714Mortgage Interest 3,283Diet 2,514Heating 3,205Other 3,980Exceptional/Urgent Needs Payment 4,627Total 115,371*Includes interim payments to applicants for other social welfareschemes.233. Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister forSocial and Family Affairs if he will reconsider theapplication of a person (details supplied) inCounty Galway who has previously applied, andbeen turned down for, the back-to-educationallowance given that the application was turneddownon the grounds that the number of days duringwhich the person was in receipt of social welfarepayment fell short of the minimum given.[5923/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The back-to-education allowance is asecond chance education opportunities programmedesigned to encourage and facilitatepeople on certain social welfare payments toimprove their skills and qualifications and, therefore,their prospects of returning to the activework force.To qualify for participation in the scheme anapplicant must be, inter alia, in receipt of a relevantsocial welfare payment for at least sixmonths if pursuing a second level course of study.The qualifying period for third level courses ofstudy was increased from six months to 15 monthsfor new applicants from September 2004.This qualifying period is to be reduced from15 months to 12 months from September 2005.However, the person concerned started his courseof study in September 2004 when the qualifyingperiod was 15 months and does not, therefore,satisfy the eligibility criteria for participation inthe scheme.Social Welfare Appeals.234. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs when a decision will be madein respect of an appeal regarding rent allowancefor a person (details supplied) in CountyKilkenny; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5939/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Rent supplements are provided forthrough the supplementary welfare allowancescheme which is administered on behalf of myDepartment by the community welfare divisionof the Health Service Executive. Under standardassessment rules, rent supplements are calculatedto ensure that an eligible person, after the paymentof rent, has an income equal to the rate ofsupplementary welfare allowance appropriate tohis or her family circumstances, less a minimumcontribution of \13 which each recipient isrequired to pay from his or her own resources.In addition to this minimum contribution, eachrecipient is also required to contribute any assessablemeans he or she has over and above theappropriate supplementary welfare allowancerate.Supplementary welfare allowance is not normallypayable to people who are engaged in fulltimeemployment. However, arrangements havebeen in place for a number of years which allowpeople to retain a portion of their rent supplementwhere they take up employment throughapproved schemes such as community employment,subject to a weekly household income limitof \317.43. In such cases, the supplement may beretained on a tapered basis over a period of upto four years. Participants in community employmenthave the option of being assessed for rentsupplement purposes under either standard orspecial retention rules, depending on whichoption is more favourable in their situation.The Dublin-mid-Leinster office of the HealthService Executive was contacted regarding thiscase and has advised that the person concernedhad been in receipt of rent supplement which wasbased on her income from one-parent family payment.It came to the attention of the executivethat the person concerned is now participating ina community employment scheme. The level ofher household income is now such that she doesnot qualify for rent supplement under either thetapered retention rules or standard assessmentrules. Her rent supplement was terminated

435 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 436[Mr. Brennan.]accordingly. The person has appealed against thisdecision to the executive’s area appeals officer.The appeal will be decided as soon as possible.Social Welfare Benefits.235. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister forSocial and Family Affairs if he will introducesome element of flexibility into the qualificationcriteria for the companion travel pass for personswho cannot travel alone and who are close to thequalifying age of 75; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5954/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The free travel companion passscheme was introduced in 1990 for persons whoqualify for free travel and who, on account oftheir disability, are unable to travel alone. Someof those who are eligible for a companion freetravel pass include recipients of disability allowanceor invalidity pension who are medicallyassessed as being unfit to travel unaccompanied;people who are blind or severely visuallyimpaired; people who are confined to wheelchairs;people who are aged 75 years and overand who are medically certified as unfit to travelalone; and people who are receiving full-time careand attention from someone who is in receipt ofa carer’s allowance.The companion pass enables a person 16 yearsof age, or over, to accompany the pass holder freeof charge. The purpose of the companion passscheme is to ensure that a person’s entitlement tofree travel is not diminished because a companioncannot afford to accompany them. Any furtherextension to the free travel scheme could only beconsidered in a budgetary context.236. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Socialand Family Affairs if eligibility for the respitecare grant will be determined; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5965/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The conditions for receipt of theextended respite care grant are set out in theSocial Welfare Bill, which this week passedSecond Stage and was referred to the Select Committeeon Social and Family Affairs. The followingconditions will apply: the carer must be providingfull-time care to a person who is in need ofsuch care, as is the case with recipients of carer’sallowance, a full-time carer must not be engagedin employment for more than ten hours per week;those who are on unemployment payments willbe excluded since they are required to be availablefor and actively seeking full-time work. Fulldetails of the conditions for receipt of theextended respite care grant will be set out inregulations and will be widely publicised inadvance of the payment date.237. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forSocial and Family Affairs if the maximum rentallowance will be approved in the case of persons(details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and ifassistance will also be given on the up-front paymentrequired. [5984/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Rent supplements are provided forthrough the supplementary welfare allowancescheme. The scheme is administered by the communitywelfare division of the Health ServiceExecutive. The southern region of the HealthService Executive has advised that, apart from aninformal enquiry from the people concerned, ithas no record of an application by them for rentsupplement. If they wish to apply they shouldcontact the community welfare officer at theirlocal health centre for an assessment of their circumstancesand eligibility.238. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forSocial and Family Affairs if rent allowance willbe approved in the case of a person (detailssupplied) in County Kilkenny; if a decision in thecase will be expedited. [5993/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Rent supplements are provided forthrough the supplementary welfare allowancescheme. The scheme is administered by the communitywelfare division of the Health ServiceExecutive.The southern region of the Health ServiceExecutive has advised that it is awaiting thereturn of the appropriate application forms fromthe person concerned. As soon as she findsaccommodation to rent and supplies the necessaryinformation the executive will assess hereligibility for rent supplement.239. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social andFamily Affairs when the fuel allowance will beapproved for a person (details supplied) inCounty Mayo. [6061/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The person concerned commencedemployment under the rural social scheme, on 12February 2005. That scheme is administered bythe Department of Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs. It is a matter for that Departmentto decide on eligibility, as well as whether participantsare entitled to any secondary benefits.Under social welfare legislation, decisions onclaims must be made by deciding officers andappeals officers who are statutorily appointed. Ihave no role in making such decisions.240. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social andFamily Affairs if an application for a person(details supplied) in County Mayo for the carer’sallowance will be reassessed. [6063/05]

437 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 438Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): Under the regulations governing carersallowance, a person may participate inemployment for a maximum of ten hours perweek. Following the necessary investigations todetermine his entitlement to the allowance, hisapplication was refused on the grounds that hewas employed in excess of the ten hours allowedeach week.My Department received a notice of an appealin this case on 15 February 2005. The person submitteda letter from his employer stating that henow works six to eight hours per week. Based onthis information a revised decision will be made.In this regard, he was requested to submit confirmationof the date from which he reduced thehours of his employment and details of his earnings.On receipt of the requested information, hisclaim will be reviewed.Under social welfare legislation decisions onclaims must be made by deciding officers andappeals officers who are statutorily appointed. Ihave no role in making such decisions.Social Welfare Appeals.241. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social andFamily Affairs when a person (details supplied)in County Mayo will have their appeal dealt within regard to unemployment benefit. [6066/05]Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr.Brennan): The person concerned applied forunemployment benefit on 10 January 2005. Hisclaim was disallowed by the deciding officer onthe grounds that he was not available for full-timework and not genuinely seeking employment.The person appealed against this decision tothe social welfare appeals office — appealreceived on 7 February 2005 — and an appealsofficer is of the opinion that an oral hearing isrequired. He will be advised of the date andvenue for the hearing when the necessaryarrangements have been made.Under social welfare legislation decisions onclaims must be made by deciding officers andappeals officers who are statutorily appointed. Ihave no role in making such decisions.Road Safety.242. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transportthe legal position in respect of the widespreaduse of quad-bikes by young people; ifthese bikes come within road traffic legislation; ifit is legal for minors or adults to ride these bikeson public roads or public open spaces; the personwho is liable in respect of injury to persons or toproperty caused by one of these bikes; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5920/05]252. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Transportthe legislation or regulations which governthe use of micro-motorcycles either on the publicroadway or in public places such as parks; thepenalties for breaches of any such laws or regulations,given that these vehicles are now in widespreaduse; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5761/05]Minister of State at the Department of Transport(Mr. Callely): I propose to take QuestionsNos. 242 and 252 together.The Road Traffic Act 1961 defines a mechanicallypropelled vehicle as a vehicle intended oradapted for propulsion by mechanical means.Quadricycles and motorcycles, including micromotorcycles,come within this definition.In order to use a mechanically propelledvehicle in a public place, a range of requirementsmust be satisfied in relation to both the vehicleand the driver. Specifically, a mechanically propelledvehicle when in use in a public place mustcomply with the requirements of the Road Traffic(Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles)Regulations 1963 to 2002 and the Road Traffic(Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 1996and the driver must have third party insurancecover in accordance with section 56 of the RoadTraffic Act 1961. In addition, under section 38 ofthe Road Traffic Act 1961, a driving licence isrequired to drive a mechanically propelledvehicle in a public place. The minimum age forholding a driving licence is 16 years for a mopedand small motorcycles and 17 years for aquadricycle.Enforcement of the road traffic law is a matterfor the Garda Síochána. The penalties forbreaches of the road traffic law in respect of theserequirements are a fine not exceeding \800 in thecase of a first offence, a fine not exceeding \1,500in the case of a second or subsequent offence, anda fine of \1,500 or to a term of imprisonment notexceeding three months or both in the case of athird or subsequent offence in a period of 12 consecutivemonths. A person convicted of a breachof section 56 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 incursfive penalty points.In addition to the requirements of road trafficlaw, a mechanically propelled vehicle for use in apublic place is required to be registered and liableto motor tax, which are matters for the RevenueCommissioners and the Minister for the Environment,Heritage and Local Government,respectively.Driving Tests.243. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transportwhen a driving test will be available for aperson (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5601/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): The applicantis on my Department’s waiting list for a drivingtest. No documentary evidence has been submittedto my Department indicating that an earlydriving test is required.

439 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 440244. Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transportwhen his Department officially notified drivingschool proprietors that a change in standardsin relation to heavy goods vehicles registeredafter 1 January 2004 would come into force inFebruary 2005; if this notice was adequate toenable owners to make the necessary adjustmentsin time to meet compliance by the due date; ifadditional time to comply can be afforded inorder that tests already arranged will not have tobe postponed; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5639/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): EUDirective 2000/56/EC provides for changes in thetype of vehicle that may be presented for a drivingtest. These changes only apply in respect oftruck, bus, or car with trailer driving tests. TheRoad Traffic (Licensing of Drivers)(Amendment) Regulations 2004, SI 705 of 2004,give effect to the provisions of the directive.Vehicles registered before 1 January 2004 are notsubject to these requirements and may continueto be used for driving test purposes until 2013.In February 2002, representative bodies ofdriving instructors were advised, by letter, of thedirective. In the course of information sessionsheld at most test centres in both 2003 and 2004,regional supervisors from my Departmentadvised driving instructors that changes were tobe introduced to the representative vehicles thatcould be presented for driving tests. While theimplementation date of 14 February 2005 for thechange was decided in November 2004, I amsatisfied that the correspondence and informationsessions conducted during the previous threeyears provided adequate notice of the impendingchange.Road Network.245. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister forTransport if he will use his powers under section41 of the Road Traffic Act, 1993 to direct theNRA to approve phase 1 of the Roscommon toCooltighe stretch of the N61; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5650/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): The planning,design and implementation of roadimprovement projects including the Roscommonto Cooltighe section of the N61 is a matter for theNational Roads Authority in conjunction with therelevant local authority, in this case RoscommonCounty Council.I do not propose to issue a direction undersection 41 of the Roads Act 1993 in regard to thisissue which is an operational matter for the NRA.Driving Tests.246. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transportthe assistance which can be offered to a person(details supplied) in County Wexford to bringforward their C class driving test date; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5668/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): A drivingtest has been arranged for the person concernedfor 14 March, 2005. Notification of the testappointment issued to him on 9 February 2005.Road Network.247. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister forTransport if all relevant State and EU public procurementand tendering requirements were followedin relation to the tendering process to buildand operate the West Link and East Link tollbridges; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5669/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): Proposalsfor the financing, construction and operation ofthe West Link bridge as a toll concession wereapproved in principle by Government in October1984. The subsequent construction of the bridge,and associated roads, was subject to a competitivetendering process run by Dublin County Counciland conformed to the relevant EEC directive forworks contracts, 71/305/EEC, and Department ofFinance guidelines for the award of public sectorcontracts, outline of Government contract procedures,prevailing at the time.Issues relating to the construction and operationof the East Link bridge are a matter forDublin City Council.Driving Tests.248. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister forTransport if the percentage of successful applicantsfor the driving test is broadly similar for allthe driving test centres; if there is evidence toshow that the driving test centre in Raheny,Dublin 5, has a much higher failure rate thanother centres; the action he will take to addressthis problem; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5687/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): While thedata available for the period from 1 January to31 December 2004 shows that the pass rate inRaheny was 52.4% compared to a national averagepass rate of 54%, the pass rate for drivingtests in Raheny in 2004 was higher than the otherDublin test centres.As in other EU countries, there are variationsin the pass rate among test centres. The pass ratemay be influenced by a number of factors, includingthe number of lessons taken by the candidate,the standard of instruction available and socialand demographic factors. The work of drivertesters is monitored on an ongoing basis to ensureconsistent application of the test standard.Air Services.249. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transporthis views on warnings from Fáilte Ireland and

441 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 442Tourism Ireland that aviation restrictions, whichare curbing access to Ireland from Europe andNorth America, are detrimental to the touristindustry here; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5689/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): First, Iassure the Deputy that there are no economicrestrictions of any kind on aviation business fromthe EU. The aviation market in the EU is fullyliberalised, and EU airlines are free to fly wherethey wish in the EU, subject only to the normalsafety and technical requirements. Regardingtransatlantic aviation, I am aware of the concernsset out in the report of the tourism policy reviewgroup to the Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism,dated 30 September 2003, regarding restrictionson aviation services between Ireland and the US.As I have indicated in the House on a numberof occasions, my officials have been engaging inexploratory discussions with U.S. officials aboutpossible changes to transatlantic arrangements. Ihave ensured that the concerns of the tourismindustry are taken into account in the course ofthese discussions.Airport Development Projects.250. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister forTransport the details of and implications arisingfrom the recent European Commission initiativeto promote the development of regional airportshere and to encourage new flights by providingdevelopment aid; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5740/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): The EuropeanCommission has recently issued draft guidelinesentitled Community guidelines on financingof airports and start-up aid to airlines departingfrom regional airports. The draft guidelines areavailable on the Commission’s website, www.europa.eu.intand the Commission has invited viewsand comments from interested parties by 7March 2005.The Commission has also written separately toall member states seeking comments on the draftguidelines and intends to arrange a meeting ofmember states in Brussels next month for anexchange of views on the proposals. My Departmentis currently examining the draft guidelinesand is consulting with Irish airlines and airportson the matter.Public Transport.251. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister forTransport if a decision has been made to allowbuses approaching Dublin to use the hard shouldersof roads in order to reduce delays to trafficcongestion; the roads and sections of roads whichare to be included in the scheme; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5741/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): I refer theDeputy to the answer given to ParliamentaryQuestions Nos. 158 and 151 of 15 February 2005.There has been no change since this reply.Question No. 252 answered with QuestionNo. 242.Traffic Management.253. Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transportif, in order to reduce the amount of trafficon roads, he will consider designating stretchesof dual carriageway for persons who carpool andallowing such persons free travel on toll roads;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5767/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): The planning,design and implementation of nationalroads improvement projects is a matter for theNational Roads Authority and the relevant localauthorities concerned.I have no plans to designate stretches of dualcarriageway for persons who carpool. The provisionof free travel for particular categories ofvehicles or users on toll roads is a matter for theNRA in the context of toll by-laws for individualprojects.Driving Tests.254. Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transportif Drogheda town will be considered as alocation for a driving test centre; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5775/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): Thepresent network of driving test centres comprisesof 54 test centres nationwide. This is generallyconsidered to provide good coverage across thecountry and represents a reasonable balancebetween convenience to test applicants and theneed for economy in delivering the driver testingservice. I have no proposals to provide a testcentre in Drogheda as the existing test centres inDundalk, Navan and Finglas provide adequatelyfor the demand in Drogheda and the generalarea.Air Services.255. Mr. Kelleher asked the Minister for Transportif there are any legal impediments eitherunder EU law or Irish law to transatlantic flightsgoing directly from Cork Airport to the USA; if,in the context of the bilateral agreements, therewas never a legal basis for not allowing the operationof transatlantic flights from and to CorkAirport; if, with the restructuring of Aer Rianta,the Cork Airport Authority is now free activelyto pursue cross-Atlantic business; if there are anyobstacles remaining, they will be removed; hisviews on whether transatlantic business would beof huge benefit to the commercial and touristeconomy of the greater south Munster area; if hewill make a statement on the Government’s positionin relation to Cork and USA flights; and if

443 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 444[Mr. Kelleher.]he will actively encourage such a proposal.[5855/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): Under theIreland-US bilateral aviation agreement, there isno impediment to Irish airlines operating scheduledor charter transatlantic services to and fromCork. However, US carriers may only operatecharter services to and from Cork.Traditionally the focus of Irish transatlanticservices had been on Shannon and Dublin.Recently, however, my Department took accountof a number of Irish policy developments such asthe Government’s decision to separate the Stateairports to increase their regional focus, as wellas the opportunities for extra tourism, and concluded,with my agreement, that no objectionshould be raised if any airline wishes to operateservices between Cork and the USA. As I mentionedabove, only Irish carriers may operatescheduled services to and from Cork.Road Traffic Offences.256. Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transportif arrangements will be made in order thatpenalty points imposed become effective fromthe date of the offence, rather than delayed untilthe record is issued. [5886/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): The RoadTraffic Act, 2002, which provides the legislativebasis for the introduction and operation of thepenalty points system, contains specific provisionsgoverning application of such points on thelicence record of an individual. Section 5 of theAct provides that where penalty points are to beendorsed on a record, a notification of thatendorsement must be issued to the licence holderinvolved. The notice sets out in particular thebasis for the endorsement of the points. Section7 of the Act provides that, save in very limitedand quite specific instances, the operative date forpenalty points is 28 days from the date of thenotice issued under section 5. This date isreferred to in the Act as the “appropriate date”.The provisions in the 2002 Act, in regard to theappropriate date, recognise that as a result of theendorsement of penalty points a person may facethe application of an automatic disqualificationfrom driving. Section 3 of the Act establishes thatwhere a person accumulates at least 12 penaltypoints, he or she will be disqualified for a periodof six months. If penalty points were to be appliedfrom the date of the commission of the offence inthe first instance, or from the date of the paymentof the fixed charge, a person could be faced withthe prospect that they would have already beendisqualified in advance of any notification beingsent to that effect. This would in turn create thesituation that a person would be open to a chargeof driving when disqualified where they haddriven in the period between the commission ofthe original offence or the payment of the chargeand the date of the notice.The penalty points system has been designedand structured to ensure that any person who isaccused of the commission of a penalty pointoffence is afforded a significant time period tochose whether or not to allow the matter to proceedto court. Save in respect of eight of the 69offences determined to be penalty point offencesin the Act, the option of the payment of a fixedcharge is afforded to the accused person. A personpresented with a fixed charge notice is givena period of 56 days in which to make such a paymentbefore the certainty of a court summons isapplied. There is, therefore, a potentially significantperiod made available to a person to makea decision and all of the time lapses relating tothe system that are established in the Act are setout in the fixed charge notice issued in respect ofthe alleged commission of the offence.Public Transport.257. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister forTransport the measures he is taking to improvepublic transport in general in the Dublin area; hisplans for quality bus corridors, Dublin Bus,Iarnród Éireann, including the DART, a metrosystem to Dublin Airport, integrated ticketing,road improvements, including the M50 and anorbital route and park and ride facilities; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5967/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): I outlinedthe current position in regard to a number ofpublic transport and road measures in the Dublinarea in my response on 15 February 2005 toParliamentary Questions Nos. 94, 95, 123, 132,157, 161, 171, 344, 354, 360. In response to QuestionsNos. 98 and 110 of 15 February, I outlinedmy intention to bring a ten year transport investmentframework to Government.The ten year transport investment frameworkwill identify the investment and outline themeasures that I believe are required in order tofurther develop all elements of national transportinfrastructure, addressing existing bottlenecksand capacity constraints, enhancing quality,optimising the use of the network and makingprudent advance provision for future economicgrowth. The framework will include my proposalsfor investment in roads and public transportwithin the greater Dublin area. It is not possibleto outline the specifics of the draft plan pendingits consideration by the Cabinet InfrastructureCommittee and by the Cabinet itself.I assume the Deputy is referring to the conceptof a Dublin outer orbital route. Both the strategicplanning guidelines for the greater Dublin area,1999, and the DTO’s platform for change, 2000,identified a possible need for a Dublin outerorbital route linking Drogheda-Navan-Naas.More recently the regional planning guidelinesfor the greater Dublin area, 2004, also provide for

445 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 446the development of such a route in the mediumto longer term on the basis that these centreswould be strengthened by the provision of goodlinks between them without having to passthrough the Dublin city area. A 2001 strategicstudy commissioned by the NRA of a Dublinouter orbital route concluded that such a routehad significant merit and is feasible on engineeringand environmental grounds. As a high levelstrategic study of the concept, the 2001 report,apart from identifying a possible corridor for anouter orbital, did not consider route options,appropriate road type and costs. Detailed considerationof these and other issues including spatialplanning, land use and environmental issuesand the appropriate type and class of road to beprovided will be the subject of further studies.I have asked the NRA to carry out thesefurther studies and to consider the proposedroute as part of future road infrastructuredevelopment plans taking account of the nationalspatial strategy, the regional planning guidelinesand the planning and traffic implications of sucha route for the greater Dublin region and neighbouringregions. The proposal will also be consideredin the context of the ten year transportinvestment framework presently being preparedwithin my Department.Airport Development Projects.258. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister forTransport the progress being made towards providinga second terminal in Dublin Airport; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5968/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): Passengertraffic through Dublin Airport is forecast to growfrom last year’s level of more than 17 millionpassengers to 30 million by 2018. New infrastructurecapacity and facilities, both airside and landside,will clearly be needed to cater for thisgrowth, including further terminal capacity. Theissue at this point is how best to provide thatadditional capacity to meet passenger growth.As the Deputy is aware, An Agreed Programmefor Government includes a commitmentto examine proposals for a new independent terminalat the airport and to progress such proposalsif the evidence suggests that such a terminalwill deliver significant benefits. I recognisethat an early decision is desirable in regard to thismatter so that, regardless of how it is provided,adequate terminal capacity is in place at DublinAirport when required to meet the growth inpassenger traffic. I am in the process of finalisingproposals that I will be bringing to Governmentvery shortly. My objective in putting proposals toGovernment will be to ensure the provision andoperation of terminal capacity on an efficient,cost effective basis.Road Network.259. Mr. Haughey asked the Minister forTransport when work on the Dublin Port Tunnelwill be complete; the cost of this project; the tollingregime which will be in place; if the proposedheavy goods vehicles management strategy isready; the measures being considered to preventcongestion on the M50 in this context; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5969/05]Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen): As, inaccordance with my decision of October 2004, theheight of the DPT is not being increased and asthe implementation of individual national roadimprovement projects are a matter for the NRAand the local authority concerned rather than myDepartment, the completion of the Dublin Porttunnel as designed, the implementation of a HGVtraffic management strategy to coincide with theopening of the tunnel and other related issues,are matters for the NRA and Dublin CityCouncil.Heavy Goods Vehicles.260. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister forTransport the regulations covering the use ofheadlights on HGVs; if, in view of the practise ofexcessive lights on the top of the cabs of HGVs,he has plans to review the regulations; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5989/05]Minister of State at the Department of Transport(Mr. Callely): The fitting and use of lights onmechanically propelled vehicles is governed bythe Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations1963 to 1996. The regulations specify amaximum of four headlights on a vehicle and donot limit the number of auxiliary lights that maybe fitted. Under the regulations, all lamps thatshow a light to the front of a vehicle must eitherbe fitted with a dipping device so that the beamof light from the lamp, when dipped, is incapableof dazzling a person more than 25 feet away fromthe lamp or be fitted and constructed so that theywill not dazzle or mislead other traffic when lit.Exceptions to the dipping device requirement aremade for direction indicators and for one or moreother lamps with a combined maximum poweroutput of seven watts. The European Communities(Road Traffic) (Vehicle Type Approval)Regulations 1991, provide that a vehicle whichcomplies with the provisions of the relevantEuropean Union type approval directive will beregarded as complying with Ireland’s road trafficregulations on the construction, equipment, lightingand use of vehicles.I have witnessed the position of excessive lightson the top of cabs of HGV’s and have drawn tothe attention of the Garda Síochána the regulationsin this regard. Dipped headlamps must beused when a vehicle is either passing anothervehicle or travelling close behind one. Enforcementof the regulations is a matter for the Garda.

447 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 448Grant Payments.261. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forCommunity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when adecision will be made on an application for subsidisedESB for a slatted house in the name of aperson (details supplied) in County Galway; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5614/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Eamon Ó Cuív): My Department has notreceived an application for grant aid under thefarm electrification grant scheme from the personconcerned. Any such application received will beprocessed by my Department without delay.Security of the Elderly.262. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forCommunity, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs ,further to previous parliamentary questions, if thelong outstanding funds due for installation ofalarms in the homes of the elderly will be paidforthwith to a company (details supplied); thereason this money has not been paid to date; andthe procedures now in place to gain approval fora person. [5995/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): I am advised by my Department that, followingrepresentations received from the Deputyin September 2004, an application form wasissued to the group in question for completion.The application form and documentation wasreturned by the group, but was seriously deficientin terms of the information and documentationrequired under the scheme of community supportfor older people.A letter issued to the group on 20 November2004 requesting further information-documentation.My Department is still awaitingreceipt of this information and documentation.Upon receipt of same the application will befurther considered by my Department.Offshore Islands.263. Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the way inwhich Údarás na Gaeltachta has assisted islandcommunities through the provision of buildings;and if any such provision will be made in ArranmoreIsland, County Donegal. [5788/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): Údarás na Gaeltachtahas been assisting island communities in theGaeltacht in various ways over the years. Thisassistance includes the direct provision of buildingsor, in some cases, the provision of grant aidtowards the cost of buildings. Islands that havereceived assistance to date include Inis Mór, InisMeáin, Inis Oírr, Oileán Cléire, Toraigh andÁrainn Mhór in County Donegal.In the case of Árainn Mhór, an enterprisecentre comprising two new units was built byÚdarás between 2000 and 2002. I understand thatone of these units was vacated by the occupier in2004 and that expressions of interest from personswishing to locate a business in this unit haverecently been sought by Údarás.If the Deputy requires additional informationin regard to any specific case, I will be happy topursue the matter further.Questions Nos. 264 to 266, inclusive, answeredwith Question No. 10.Iarratais Pleanála.267. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta céardiad na hiarratais pleanála a fuair a Roinn óúdaráis phleanála, a bhfuil ceantracha Gaeltachtafaoina gcúram, ó tháinig Ionstraim ReachtúilUimh. 600 de 2001 i bhfeidhm. [5957/05]268. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta céardiad na hiarratais phleanála a bhfuil aighneachtaíina leith curtha ag a Roinn faoi bhráid nan-údarás pleanála maidir le cosaint na Gaeilge saGhaeltacht mar theanga phobail ó tháinig antAcht um Pleanáil agus Forbairt 2000 ibhfeidhm. [5958/05]269. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta céard épolasaí an Aire agus cur chuige a Roinne maidirle haighneachtaí a chur faoi bhráid na n-údaráspleanála i gcás iarratais a d’fhéadfadh tionchar aimirt ar an nGaeilge mar theanga phobail saGhaeltacht. [5959/05]270. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta céard édearcadh a Roinne maidir le soláthar RáiteasTionchair Teanga do na húdaráis phleanála i gcásiarratas pleanála ina bhfuil le forbairtí ar nósÓstáin, Ionaid Siopadóireachta, IonaidSiamsaíochta etc. a thógáil sa Ghaeltacht.[5960/05]271. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cur síosar an mbaint shonrach a bhí aige le dréachtúlitreach, a cuireadh chuig Comhairle Chontae naGaillimhe in éindí leis an iarratas pleanála(04/5509), ag iarraidh nach mbeadh ar anbhforbróir Ráiteas Tionchair Teanga a sholátharmaidir le hiarratas ar óstán a thógáil sa Spidéal,mar gur ‘commercial development’ a bhí i gceistagus an bhfuil an dearcadh faoin ngá atá leRáiteas Tionchair Teanga a sholáthar maidir lehiarratais pleanála, mar atá léirithe sa litirthuasluaite, ag teacht le polasaí an Rialtais agusa Roinne maidir le cosaint na Gaeilge sa

449 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 450Ghaeltacht ar fhorbairtí a d’fhéadfadh tionchardiúltach a bheith acu ar sheasamh na Gaeilge saGhaeltacht. [5961/05]272. D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den AireGnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén dulchun cinn atá déanta ag a Roinn maidir letreoirlínte a aontú leis an Roinn Comhshaoil,Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil i dtaobhchosaint na Gaeilge sa Ghaeltacht faoin gcóraspleanála agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas inathaobh. [5962/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): Tógfaidh méCeisteanna Uimh. 267 go 272 uilig, le chéile.Mar is eol don Teachta, is iad an RoinnComhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúilagus na hÚdaráis Áitiúla atá freagrach as cúrsaípleanála sa Ghaeltacht, ar a n-áirítear cur ibhfeidhm na bhforálacha faoi leith san Acht umPleanáil agus Forbairt 2000 a bhaineann leis annGaeltacht féin.Ag féachaint don chuspóir lárnach atá ag moRoinnse maidir le húsáid na Gaeilge marphríomh-theanga na Gaeltachta a láidriú agus abhuanú, chuir mo Roinn aighneacht i 2003 chuigna hÚdaráis Áitiúla ar fad a bhfuil ceantarGaeltachta faoina gcúram (Comhairle Chontaena Gaillimhe san áireamh) d’fhonn a n-aird atharraingt ar na dualgais faoi leith atá orthu indáil leis an nGaeilge sa Ghaeltacht igcomhthéacs an Achta thuasluaite.Rinneadh ábhar na n-aighneachtaí seo a dhíriúar a thábhachtaí is atá sé: anról cinniúnach ad’fhéadfadh bheith ag cinntí pleanála ar stádas naGaeilge sa Ghaeltacht agus ar na limistéirGhaeltachta a aithint; agus straitéisí agus beartaisa fhorbairt dá réir a thabharfaidh aghaidh ar antsaincheist seo go ginearálta, de réir mar aoireann sna ceantair éagsúla Gaeltachta.Is faoi na hÚdaráis Phleanála atá sé, mar atásainithe san Acht, dul i gcomhairle le mo Roinnagus le hÚdarás na Gaeltachta, de réir mar acheapann siad gur gá, maidir le hiarratais faoileith agus tá sonraí ag Aguisín 1 de na cásannaina ndearnadh amhlaidh ó tháinig an tAcht ibhfeidhm. Is féidir a rá go ginearálta gurb é ancur chuige atá ann maidir le cásanna a chuirtearfaoi bhráid mo Roinne, agus a bhfuil lonnaíochtshubstaintiúil ar nós eastáit tithíochta i gceist, náaird an Údaráis Áitiúil ábhartha a dhíriú ar anaighneacht a cuireadh chug an Údarás sin i 2003a chlúdaíonn an tsaincheist sin trí chéile. Támionsonraí faoi seo sa tábla in Aguisín 1.Maidir leis an gceist faoi iarratas pleanála faoileith (uimhir thagartha 04/5509), fuair m’oifigdháilcheantair fiosrú ó ghníomhaire a bhí agfeidhmiú thar ceann tógálaí a raibh iarrataspleanála á bheartú aige i mí na Nollag 2004. Bafaoi éileamh Chomhairle Chontae na Gaillimhe indáil le ráiteas tionchar teanga chomh fada is abhain sé le forbairt thrádálach i nGaeltacht naGaillimhe a bhí an fiosrú. Bunaithe ar an eolas athug an té a rinne an fiosrú agus i bhfianaise abhfuil ráite i bPlean Forbartha an Chontae i ndáille ráiteas tionchar teanga (féach Aguisín 2), ba ébarúil an té a d’fhreagair an fiosrú i mo oifigsenach bhfuil ráiteas tionchar teanga ag teastáil deréir an phlean condae ach d’fhorbairt tithíochtade níos mó ná teach amháin in aon cheantaramháin. Cuireadh an barúil sin i bhfoirm dréachtlitreach chuig an gníomhaire ar faics ag an am.Tuigtear go ndearna an gníomhaire a iarrataspleanála ar 21 Nollaig 2004 agus gur shocraigh anChomhairle Chontae féin caitheamh leis aniarratas mar fhorbairt thrádálach faoi réir nadtreoirlínte ábhartha pleanála mar a shainíteariad sa phlean forbartha don Chontae.Aontaím go bhfuil tábhacht ar leith ag baintle rialacha pleanála atá teanga-chairdiúil agus gobhfuil sé fíor-thábhachtach modhanna aguscleachtais éifeachtacha, réadúla a cheapadh (ar an-áirítear ráitis tionchar teanga) chun go mbeidhdea-thionchar agus feidhm phraiticiúil ag narialacha seo ar an nGaeilge agus ar an nGaeltachttrí chéile. Is faoi na hÚdaráis Phleanála iad féinatá sé, ár ndóigh, cúram a dhéanamh den cheistseo ar fad.Ar mhaithe le cuidiú leis na hÚdaráisPhleanála Áitiúla agus Réigiúnda a gcuid dualgasmar a leagtar amach iad faoin Acht um Pleanáilagus Forbairt a chur i bhfeidhm, tá fo-ghrúpaNASC atá ag feidhmiú faoi scáth Údarás naGaeltachta ag obair faoi láthair ar dhréachtthreoirlíntea chur i dtoll a chéile chuige sin. Táan grúpa seo comhdhéanta de ChomhairleChontae Chorcaí, Comhairle Contae Dhún nanGall, Comhairle Chontae na Gaillimhe,Comhairle Cathrach na Gaillimhe, ComhairleChontae Chiarraí, Ollscoil na hÉireann Gaillimh,Údarás na Gaeltachta, Údarás Réigiúnach anIarthair agus mo Roinn féin agus tuigtear dom gobhfuil tuarascáil nach mór réidh le cur faoi bhráidna Roinne Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agusRialtais Áitiúil.Ní miste a rá chomh maith go raibh mo Roinni dteagmháil leis an Roinn Comhshaoil,Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil faoi chúrsaípleanála go ginearálta sa Ghaeltacht ar 1 Feabhra2005 d’fhonn na féidearachtaí go n-eagródh anRoinn sin seimineár faoin ábhar a ardú. Tuigteardom go bhfuil an t-iarratas seo á mheá ag anRoinn sin faoi láthair.

451 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 452Aguisín 1Sonraí faoi na h-iarratais pleanála a fuair an Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta ó na hÚdaráis Phleanála a bhfuil ceantracha Gaeltachta faoina gcúram san ord a fuarthas iad ó2005 siar agus an chaoi gur caitheadh leoUimh. Thag. Iarratas Comhairle Chontae Nádúr an iarratais Aighneacht curtha04/4409 faighte 31/05/05 Muiris Ó Cléirigh agus Mathhias Jauch Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí athchóiriú tí ar an mBlascaodníor cuireadh aighneacht mar 04/4419 faighte 27/1/05 Muiris Ó Cléirigh agus Mathhias athchóiriú tí ar an mBlascaod níor cuireadh aighneacht mar gurgur iarratas aonarach é Jauch iarratas aonarach é04/2858 faighte 31/05/05 Feargal Ó Slatara Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí athchóiriú sciobóil ar an mBlascaod cás aonarach — níor cuireadh aonaighneacht04/4636 faighte 27/1/05 Mícheál agus Philomena Uí Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí cás aonarach oifig phoist siopa agus cás aonarach — níor cuireadh aonBhrosnacháin lóistín aighneachtn/a William Mongey Consultant ESBI Comhairle Chontae Dhún na Scoping of EIS for proposed 110KV litir curtha ar 1 Feabhra agEngineering and Facility Management nGall Power Line moladh don ChomhairleLtd Stephen Court St Stephens Green tuairimí Údarás na GaeltachtaDublin 2 a lorg mar gheall ar an róllárnach atá ag an Údarásmaidir le cúrsaí fiontair agusfostaíochta sa Ghaeltacht04/8278 faighte 18/1/05 Finbarr Developments Comhairle Chontae Dhún na 15 teach i gCarraig Airt freagra curtha ar 21 Eanáir 2005nGall ag díriú aird na Comhairle aran aighneacht a cuireadh chuigan gComhairle i Meán Fómhair2003 agus ar na freagraí acuireadh i ndáil le cásannacosúil leis an gceann seo(04/3548 agus 04/166)04/3548 13/12/04 Creelough Roarty Development 8 teach agus arasáin i nGort a’ Choirce litir curtha chuig an gComhairleLtd Chontae ar 14 Nollaig 2004 agdíriú aird na Comhairle ar anaighneacht a cuireadh chuig angComhairle i mí Meán Fómhair200304/166 faighte 7/12/05 Comhairle Chontae Dhún na Part VIII 10 teach sóisialta sa Charraig, litir curtha chuig an gComhairlenGall Dún na nGall Chontae ar 14 Nollaig 2004 agdíriú aird na Comhairle ar anaighneacht a cuireadh chuig angComhairle i mí Meán Fómhair200304/8299 faighte 11/1/05 Kelly Louise agus Patricia Weir Comhairle Chontae Dhún na 2 teach cás aonarach — níor cuireadh aonnGall aighneacht04/3936 faighte 25/11/04 Limestone Partnership Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí scéim 20 teach agus 44 arasáin i litir curtha 12 Nollaig 2004 agnGortnora, Daingean díriú aird na Comhairle araighneacht na Roinne acuireadh chucu ar 16 Aibreán2003 maidir le cúrsaí pleanálago ginearálta

453 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 454Uimh. Thag. Iarratas Comhairle Chontae Nádúr an iarratais Aighneacht curtha04/874 29/3/04 Tom Long Imleach West Cooleen An Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí méadú tí teach aonarach — níor cuireadhDaingean aon aighneacht03/730 7/3/03 Breandán Houlihan Smerwick Harbour Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí méadú óstán níor cuireadh aon aighneachtBaile an Fheirtéaraigh03/731 7/3/03 Denis Dennehy Cathair Dónaill Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí méadú tí teach aonarach — níor cuireadhaon aighneacht03/710 7/3/03 Ionad Pobail Ceann Trá Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí naíonra/ionad lae forbairt shóisialta — níorcuireadh aon aighneacht03/702 7/3/03 Pádraig Budhlaeir Gort Mór Baile an Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí teach aonarach teach aonarach — níor cuireadhFheirtéaraigh aon aighneacht03/691 7/3/03 Maolíosa Bhiocaire Dún Chaoin Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí teach aonarach teach aonarach — níor cuireadhaon aighneacht03/522 7/3/03 Tomás Devane Aird Mhór Liospóil Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí teach a mhéadú teach aonarach — níor cuireadhaon aighneacht03/328 7/3/03 Éisc Gheal Teo. Liospóil Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí cead coinneála ionad cuairteora teach aonarach — níor cuireadhaon aighneacht03/333 7/3/03 Mairín Keating Baile an Sceilg Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí teach nua teach aonarach — níor cuireadhaon aighneacht03/305 7/3/03 Seán Cox Cathair Dónaill Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí méadú tí teach aonarach — níor cuireadhaon aighneacht

455 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 456[Éamon Ó Cuív.]Aguisín 2Sliocht as Phlean Forbartha Chontae naGaillimhe i ndáil le ráiteas tionchar teangaLanguage impact statements will be requiredwhere an application is made for two or morehouses, or where an applicant applied for morethan one house in an area. The purpose of aLanguage Impact Statement will be to assessthe likely impact of the proposed developmenton the usage of Irish within the Gaeltacht area.Permission will only be granted where theAuthority is satisfied that the effect of thedevelopment will be beneficial to the usage ofthe language in the area, if permitted.Community Development.273. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans forthe enhancement of services provided or fundedby his Department on a county basis; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [6006/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): I am always seeking toimprove measures and benefits for communitiesacross the range of programmes operated by myDepartment. In the context of a 19% increase inthe Estimates for 2005 for my Department, Ianticipate progress across a range of measuresthis year, including the local and regional drugstask forces, the rural social scheme, and the communitydevelopment programme.Dormant Accounts Fund.274. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the numberof applications received from County Kildare forfunding from the proceeds of dormant accountsin 2005; the funds he has allocated to date orintends to allocate before the end of 2005; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[6009/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): Decisions on the disbursement of fundsfrom dormant accounts moneys are currently amatter for the Dormant Accounts Fund DisbursementsBoard, an independent body establishedunder the Dormant Accounts Acts. Theboard engaged Area Development ManagementLimited, ADM, to administer the initial round offunding on its behalf which involves the disbursementof up to \60 million from the fund.Following an invitation to groups and organisationsto make applications for funding, over1,600 applications were received by ADM in2004. I understand that 21 of the applicationsreceived were in respect of proposals in CountyKildare. The process of assessing and makingdecisions on these applications is ongoing andnearing completion. In this regard, to date theboard has approved 420 projects for funding totallingapproximately \42 million. Ten of the projectsapproved, involving funding of approximately\1.5 million, are based in County Kildare.Question No. 275 answered with QuestionNo. 7.Drugs Task Forces.276. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent towhich he expects to assist those in the fightagainst drugs throughout 2005; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [6012/05]Minister of State at the Department of Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N.Ahern): My Department has responsibility forthe work of the 14 local drugs task forces, the tenregional drugs task forces and the young people’sfacilities and services fund. Funding of \31.5 millionis available in my Department to support anddevelop drugs projects through these programmesin 2005.In addition, approximately \20 million in fundingis being provided on an annual basis to mainstreamedLDTF and YPFSF drugs projectsthrough other Departments and agencies.Departmental Funding.277. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he hasexpanded the number of groups or bodies eligiblefor various forms of grant aid from his Department;and if he will make a statement on thematter. [6013/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): There has been no formalexpansion of the number of groups or bodieseligible for various forms of grant aid from myDepartment. However, given my Department’sfocus on communities, particularly those that arevulnerable or under threat, all applications forfunding receive serious consideration.Community Development.278. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent towhich he has been able to address the issues ofrural depopulation; if he has come to an understandingwith An Taisce on the issue; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [6014/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): I refer the Deputy tomy reply to Question No. 93 of 9 November 2004in relation to rural housing.Departmental Funding.279. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the numberof applications for grant aid or other forms of financialassistance received in his Department fromvarious voluntary bodies, groups or agencies in

457 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 458County Kildare in 2005; the number and amountof approvals made to date; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [6015/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): My Department has notadvertised new grant schemes for 2005 as yet.Funding is being continued under existing programmesto bodies such as area partnership companies,Leader groups, community developmentprojects etc.RAPID Programme.280. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community,Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans forthe development of the RAPID programme andgroups likely to benefit under that heading; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[6105/05]Minister for Community, Rural and GaeltachtAffairs (Éamon Ó Cuív): As I have stated previously,the RAPID programme is now operatingon a number of different levels.Many small-scale proposals from RAPID areasare being dealt with more effectively at locallevel. To support this approach dedicated fundingof \6 million is provided in 2005. These proposalsare being co-funded by the relevant departmentor local agency under a number of categories withbroad levels of funding agreed at national level.I am currently in discussions with my colleaguesregarding co-funding a number of measures for2005 and I hope to make an announcement in thenear future.As regards the larger projects from RAPIDplans that have already been submitted toDepartments, these will continue to be consideredfor funding within existing funding streamsin each Department. However, Departmentswill now deal with a smaller number of projectsand will therefore be in a better position to prioritiseprojects and set out timescales for furtheractions.Work on improving integration and coordinationof service delivery at local level will alsocontinue, as this is a key component of theRAPID programme.Special provision was made by the Governmentfor RAPID areas under the dormantaccounts plan. Discussions are ongoing withDepartments regarding prioritisation of othernon-capital actions included in the AIT plans.Communities in the RAPID areas will benefitfrom the measures that I have outlined.Grant Payments.281. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food the number of applicants underthe area aid scheme, the suckler cow scheme,slaughter premium, special beef premium and thesheep premium in the years 1997 to 2004; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter.[5547/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The numbers of applicants-applicationsunder the various schemes from 1997 to2004 are set out in the table:1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004Suckler Cow Premium 79,823 77,116 74,107 71,080 66,935 64,349 62,905 61,847Ewe Premium 45,768 44,583 43,704 41,209 38,647 36,177 35,099 34,821Special Beef Premium* 212,320 242,341 187,100** 169,095 158,973 173,029 163,702 223,119***New Slaughter Premium* — — — 98,921 97,139 92,686 89,429 83,814Deseasonalisation SlaughterPremium* 32,174 33,774 33,115 — — — — —Area Aid 135,186 132,935 133,874 130,589 129,050 127,546 128,131 131,501†* The figures shown refer to the number of applications received rather than applicants as a producer may submit more thanone application or slaughter animals on more than one date.** In 1997 and 1998 a farmer had to submit a different application for special beef premium under each age bracket ten months,22 months and bulls. A combined application was introduced as and from 1999, hence the large change in the volume ofapplications received.*** Extra applications have been received due to final year of scheme.† As a result of the introduction of the single payment scheme farmers who were not previously required to lodge area aidapplications were required to lodge them in 2004.Factory Closure.282. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if, on the closure of Carlowsugar factory, a report from a German consultancyfirm was commented on or used at hermeeting with the company (details supplied); ifthe report will be placed in the OireachtasLibrary; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5574/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): I understand that Greencoreemployed a consultancy firm. I have not seen thereport of the firm nor was it discussed in mymeetings with the company. Any inquiries aboutthe report would be a matter for the companyitself.Grant Payments.283. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if, in view of evidence given bypersons (details supplied) at the Mahon tribunal,she will re-examine the entitlement of a person

459 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 460[Mr. Sargent.]to farmer forestry premium payments; and if shewill suspend the payment of further premiumspending he outcome of such review. [5575/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): Having examined the relevant application,I am satisfied the person in question meetsthe criteria laid down for payment of the farmerrateof forestry premium.Freedom of Information Requests.284. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if, in addition to the informalthird party observations sought by telephone on7 October 2004, there was other informal oral orwritten contact with a person (details supplied),her spouse or any other party concerningFOI/04/176; the reason for any such contact andthe outcome thereof. [5576/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): In addition to informal third partyobservations sought by my Department with thenamed individual on 7 October 2004, the individual’sspouse contacted the Department by telephoneon the same day. The outcome of that contactwas to confirm the reluctance of theindividual concerned to the release by theDepartment of the information in question.Contact was also made by the Department withthe Tribunal of Inquiry into Certain PlanningMatters and Payments, which had earlier in 2004sought and been given the relevant records/filerelating to the application for forestry premiumby the individual concerned. The purpose of thiscontact was to advise the tribunal that theDepartment had received a request under theFreedom of Information Acts for suchrecords/file and to establish whether the tribunalwould have a difficulty with their release. The tribunalindicated that it had no such difficulty.There was also communication with the requesterfor the purpose of apprising him of progress inprocessing his request.285. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if she will provide a copy of theguidelines received by her Department from theFOI central policy unit of the Department of Financeadvising all decision-makers to consult anythird parties informally when deliberating overthe release of records involving these parties.[5577/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): As agreed with the Deputy’s office, acopy of the FOI central policy unit notice number13, “Requests involving third parties — A step bystep guide” was forwarded to him on 16February 2005.286. Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if her Department has found alacuna in the Freedom of Information Acts; if shewill provide a copy of the record of the mannerin which any such lacuna has been brought to theattention of the Department of Finance and theAttorney General. [5578/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): My Department has not concludedthat the Freedom of Information Acts containany lacunae.Milk Quota.287. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food the reason a quota belonging toa person (details supplied) in County Clare wasreduced; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5592/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The person named applied to leasehis entire quota under the milk quota temporaryleasing scheme 2004-05. His entire quotaamounted to 109,105 litres, of which 21,808 litreshad been allocated from the national reserveunder various measures. As allocations from thenational reserve are not eligible for temporaryleasing, the maximum which the producer isentitled to offer to the 2004-05 scheme is 87,297litres. Accordingly, the permission grantedrelated to this amount.Disadvantaged Area Status.288. Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food the position regarding thereview of the disadvantaged areas; if there is atimescale when there are likely to be proposalsfrom the European Commission; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5593/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): As part of the suggested 2007-13 ruraldevelopment framework, the European Commissionhas proposed new criteria for less favouredareas. These lay emphasis on soil and climaticconditions. In line with other memberstates, Ireland has highlighted the sensitivity ofthis issue. Ireland has also sought clarification asto the Commission’s intentions.While some clarification on the proposedmethodology for redefining disadvantaged areashas just been received from the EU Commission,that proposed methodology needs detailed assessmentand further clarification before we canrespond fully to it in the course of ongoing negotiations.I shall continue to stress the sensitivityof this issue for Ireland in the course of thosenegotiations.Grant Payments.289. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forAgriculture and Food when the single paymententitlements will issue to a person (details

461 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 462supplied) in County Galway; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5611/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The person named applied for considerationof force majeure/exceptional circumstanceson 5 February 2004.Following examination of the exceptional circumstancesoutlined, my Department decidedthat the reference years 2000, 2001 and 2002 willbe excluded from the calculation of the singlepayment entitlements for the person named andthe entitlements will be based on the referenceyears 1997, 1998 and 1999. A statement of provisionalentitlements reflecting this positionissued to the person named on 1 February 2005.290. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forAgriculture and Food when her Department proposesto pay a special restocking grant to a person(details supplied) in County Galway; if herDepartment has approved such a payment to allsheep farmers in similar circumstances; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5612/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The sheep flock belonging to theflock owner in question was depopulated as aresult of scrapie prior to Christmas 2001. He hasbeen paid compensation on the basis of an agreementreached with my Department. The terms ofthe agreement and the amount of compensationand income loss involved were clearly understoodand accepted by all concerned at the time ofdepopulation.Flock owners depopulated under this firstphase depopulation arrangements were notallowed to restock for a period of two years. Theyreceived compensation for the capital value of thesheep and for income loss for that period. Inaddition, those who restocked in the third year,including the person named, also received compensationfor income loss for that year.The amounts paid to these producers for thecapital value of the animals and for income lossfor the period of three years were generous havingregard to all the circumstances involved. I donot consider that payment of any additionalamounts by way of restocking grants is justifiedin these cases.291. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forAgriculture and Food the amount of grantsawarded to a person (details supplied) in CountyClare in 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002; ifit is more advantageous to this person to have thereference years calculated on the years 1997, 1998and 1999; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5613/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The person named received the followingpayments under the cattle headagescheme for the years 1997-2000:1997 1904.611998 2034.121999 Nil — Not an applicant2000 Nil — Not an applicantThe person named received the following paymentsunder the sheep headage scheme for theyears 1997-2000:1997 91.421998 Nil — Not an applicant1999 Nil — Not an applicant2000 Nil — Not an applicantThe area based compensatory allowance schemereplaced the cattle-sheep headage schemes in2001 and the person named received the followingpayments under the scheme for the years2001-02:2001 Nil — area aid (100% over declaration penalty)2002 1858.92The payments awarded to the person namedunder the special beef premium scheme for theyears 1997-2002 are:1997 1,300.991998 1,652.571999 Nil — not an applicant2000 Nil — not an applicant2001 Nil — not an applicant2002 Nil — not an applicantThe payments awarded to the person namedunder the suckler cow premium scheme for theyears 1997-2002 are:1997 1,246.391998 1,246.391999 Nil — not an applicant2000 Nil — not an applicant2001 Nil — not an applicant2002 Nil — not an applicantThe payments awarded to the person namedunder the extensification premium scheme for theyears 1997-2002 are:\\\\\

463 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 464[Mary Coughlan.]1997 1,300.991998 1,173.841999 Nil2000 Nil2001 Nil2002 NilThe payments awarded to the person namedunder the slaughter premium scheme for theyears 1997-2002 are:1997 Nil — not an applicant1998 Nil — not an applicant1999 Nil — not an applicant2000 103.842001 Nil — not an applicant2002 438.21The payments awarded to the person namedunder the ewe premium scheme for the years1997-2002 are as follows:1997 318.601998 407.881999 708.002000 602.962001 Nil — not an applicant2002 Nil — not an applicantThe only grounds for calculating the single farmpayment using the reference period 1997-99 arewhere force majeure/exceptional circumstancesare accepted as having caused a sudden, unforeseenbreakdown in production, beyond the controlof the producer, and affecting the entire referenceperiod 2000-02.The person named submitted an application forconsideration of force majeure/exceptional circumstanceson 5 February 2004. Having examinedthe circumstances outlined and supportingdocumentation, the single payment unit advisedthe person named that his application did notsatisfy the criteria laid down in Article 40 ofCouncil Regulation EC No 1782/2003.An opportunity to appeal this decision to theindependent single payment appeals committeewas offered to the person named but has not beenavailed of to date.292. Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food when a person (detailssupplied) in County Mayo will receive his REPscheme payment. [5631/05]\\\Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The application for payment in thiscase was received in my Department on 10January 2005 and is being processed in accordancewith the targets set out in the protocol ondirect payments to farmers.293. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food when a decision on the applicationby a person (details supplied) in CountyKerry to be considered as a new entrant-inheritanceunder the single payment scheme will bemade; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5749/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The person named submitted anapplication for consideration in respect of theinheritance and new entrant measures of the singlepayment scheme.Following the initial examination of the paperssubmitted the person named was requested tofurnish additional information. This informationhas now been received and both applicationshave been processed. The person named has beensuccessful in respect of both the new entrant andinheritance measures of the scheme. However,the inheritance measure, which is the inheritedentitlements combined with those earned by theperson named in his own right, was more favourablefinancially than the new entrant measure.The person named was notified on the 18February 2005 that the inheritance measurewould be the one reflected in his statement ofprovisional entitlements scheduled to issueshortly.Nitrates Directive.294. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food the obstacles to the publicationof the specifications of earthen bank tanks; whenthese specifications will be published; if sheintends to provide grant aid to this form of storage;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5832/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): I refer the Deputy to my reply toParliamentary Question No. 400 of 15 February2005.The working group, which is considering thespecification and guidance documents for earthlinedstores has reached an advanced stage in itswork. Some further discussions are taking placethis week. I expect that the expert working groupwill shortly submit its conclusions to my Departmentand to the Department of the Environment,Heritage and Local Government. Considerationwill be given to the working group’s recommendationsparticularly in the context of the implementationrequirements of the nitrates directive.Grant Payments.295. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if her Department has received

465 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 466the latest correspondence from a person (detailssupplied) in County Wexford with regard to theoutcome of force majeure; the assistance which isavailable to this person; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5848/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The person named was notified thathis application for consideration of forcemajeure/exceptional circumstances as a result ofBSE depopulation in 2001 was successful and thathis single payment entitlements would thereforebe based on the two-year average for 2000 and2002.Following this decision the person named submittedan appeal to the independent single paymentappeals committee. In the light of the circumstancesoutlined in the appeal, the singlepayment unit is satisfied that the force majeurecircumstances had a greater impact on the patternof production in 2002 and therefore the year 2002rather than 2001 should be excluded and the twoyearaverage of the years 2000 and 2001 only willbe used in the calculation of the provisional singlepayment entitlements. A certificate of provisionalentitlements reflecting this position will issueshortly to the person named.Milk Quota.296. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if additional milk quota onhardship grounds will be awarded to a person(details supplied) in County Clare; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5866/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): Allocations of milk quota from themilk quota national reserve are granted on thebasis of recommendations from the milk quotaappeals tribunal. The tribunal is a body establishedto consider and advise on applications foradditional quota from individual producers whohave suffered severe hardship in the context ofthe milk quota system.The named person has submitted an applicationfor additional quota on the grounds ofhardship in the current 2004-05 milk quota year.The tribunal examined this application at a recentmeeting and an allocation of additional quota wasrecommended. This allocation has now beenapproved and notification is being issued to theperson and his cooperative.Grant Payments.297. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food when a person (detailssupplied) in County Clare will receive annualpayment for forestry; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5867/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): Payments of the 2005 forestry premiumwill be made in April of this year.298. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food the position regarding the singlepayment appeals consideration for a person(details supplied) in County Limerick. [5911/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The person named, having been notifiedthat the circumstances outlined by him didnot satisfy the criteria for forcemajeure/exceptional circumstances under Article40 of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003,submitted an appeal to the independent singlepayment appeals committee.Following a full examination of the circumstancesin the appeal, the findings of the independentsingle payment appeals committee were thatthe original decision taken by my Departmentshould be upheld.However further information relating to theappeal was received after the date of the appealscommittee decision. A full review of the circumstancesof the case including this additional informationwill be carried out by the independent singlepayment appeals committee at its meetingscheduled for 23 February 2005 and the personnamed will be notified shortly of the outcome.Agriculture Appeals.299. Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food if unsuccessful appellants to theagricultural appeals office are notified of theirright of appeal to the office of the Ombudsmanrather than initially to the director of the office;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5927/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): Unsuccessful appellants are advisedof their right of recourse to the office of theOmbudsman. In addition, under the AgricultureAppeals Act 2001, the decision of an appealsofficer may be reviewed by the Director of AgricultureAppeals, where the legality or factualbasis of the decision is questioned.Grant Payments.300. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forAgriculture and Food if farmers who declaredtheir holdings for area aid in order to qualify forthe single farm payment entitlements in 2005 willbe allowed to afforest that land or part of itshould they wish to do so before 1 October 2005;if the ten months period can start from 1 September2004 which would free the land for plantingfrom 1 July 2005; if the start-up date for theten months period is automatically set for 1 Septemberor does the applicant choose a start-update. [5936/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): Farmers will be required to indicateon their 2005 area aid-single payment applicationforms the date from which the ten months retentionperiod for each of their parcels begins. Farmerswill be allowed to choose at most two differentdates in respect of their parcels and those two

467 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 468[Mary Coughlan.]dates must be between 1 September 2004 and 30April 2005.In choosing the starting date for a parcel a personwill need to be mindful of declarations inrespect of that parcel for 2004. In 2004 forage parcelshad to be available and accessible for rearinganimals for a seven months period commencingbetween 1 January 2004 and 31 March 2004. Careshould be taken that there is no overlappingbetween the ending of the seven months periodfor 2004 and the beginning of the ten monthsperiod for the 2005. In the case of parcelsdeclared in 2004 for arable aid the ten monthsperiod for 2005 single payment scheme shouldnot commence until after harvesting of the 2004crops. Also, in the case of rented or leased landsthere should be no overlapping between the endingof a rental agreement or lease for 2004 andthe commencement of the ten months period for2005.It will not be possible, for the reasons outlinedto automatically set 1 September 2004 as the startdate for all parcels. Some farmers will, however,be free to commence afforestation after 1 July2005 on parcels declared for the 2005 single paymentscheme where they have indicated a validstart date of 1 September 2004.WTO Talks.301. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agricultureand Food his views on a submission(details supplied); his plans to address the submissionin regard to the WTO talks; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5948/05]Minister for Agriculture and Food (MaryCoughlan): The negotiations on the new WTOround are taking place under the mandate,known as the Doha Development Agenda,agreed at the WTO ministerial conference inDoha in November 2001. This mandate providesthat special and differential treatment fordeveloping countries will be an integral elementof all aspects of the agriculture negotiations. Significantprogress was made towards concluding anew round with the framework agreement agreedin Geneva in August 2004. The framework agreementrecognises the critical importance of agricultureto the economic development ofdeveloping countries and the need to allow themto pursue agricultural policies that are supportiveof their development goals, poverty reductionstrategies, food security and livelihood concerns.The framework agreement sets out, in broad outline,the terms of special and differential treatmentwhich will apply to developing countries inthe form of longer implementation periods andless demanding commitments than will apply todeveloped countries. Negotiations on details arecontinuing with a view to reaching a conclusionat the WTO ministerial conference in Hong Kongin December 2005. I fully support the approachto assisting developing countries outlined in theDoha Development Agenda and the frameworkagreement.Garda Investigations.302. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice,Equality and Law Reform his position in relationto the arrest of a person (details supplied) as partof the investigation into a series of robberies atDublin Port in recent years. [5610/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the Gardaauthorities that the person in question wasarrested and detained in respect of an offenceunconnected with the Dublin Port robberies andwas subsequently released without charge.Garda Complaints Procedures.303. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfiedhimself that the allegations made by a person(details supplied) in Dublin 7 regarding amember of the Garda Síochána which have beenwidely reported in the media, have been fully andproperly investigated; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5637/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I have been informed by theGarda authorities that an investigation file in thiscase has been forwarded to the Director of PublicProsecutions. As the Deputy will appreciate, Ihave no official responsibility to the Dáil in thismatter which is one for the Director of PublicProsecutions who is independent in his function.Inquiries into Garda Activities.304. Mr. Costello asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform if the Governmenthas accepted all the recommendations(details supplied) made in the first report of theMorris tribunal; the progress made to date inimplementing these recommendations; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5682/05]319. Mr. Costello asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform if the Governmenthas accepted all the recommendations madein the first report of the Morris tribunal, includingthe need for a more pro-active role for Gardaheadquarters in the management of Garda divisions;the need for improved recording andreporting of incidents; the restoration of the practiceof members of inspector rank and abovekeeping daily official journals; the need for anurgent and independent review of policy on thehandling of informants; the need for a specificobligation on members of the Garda Síochána toaccount truthfully for any actions taken in thecourse of duty; the progress made to date inimplementing those recommendations; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5964/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I propose to take QuestionsNos. 304 and 319 together.

469 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 470I am informed by the Garda authorities thatthe Garda Commissioner has accepted the recommendationsmade in the first report of the Morristribunal. The Garda Commissioner has establishedan implementation group under the chairmanshipof the Deputy Commissioner, Mr. PeterFitzgerald, to examine the issues arising from therecommendations contained in the first report ofthe Morris tribunal.A number of working groups have been establishedto deliberate on matters raised in thereport. These working groups are examining thefollowing areas; (1) role of assistant commissionerand accountability framework; (2) erosion of discipline;(3) issues involving personnel; (4)migration management and policy of tenure; (5.)management development; (6) internal audit; (7)informant management; (8) religious and ethnicminorities.The working groups have almost completedtheir deliberations and the issues referred to willbe addressed therein. A composite report, containingfirm recommendations, will be preparedby the implementation group for the Garda Commissionerand myself.Legal Aid Service.305. Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Justice,Equality and Law Reform the nature of hisresponsibility in ensuring the implementation ofthe European Agreement on the Transmission ofApplications for Legal Aid (details supplied).[5697/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): Under the provisions of a EuropeanAgreement on the Transmission of Applicationsfor Legal Aid my Department has nominatedthe Legal Aid Board as the transmittingand receiving authority for this jurisdiction.Under the terms of this agreement, the nominatedauthorities are required to assist personswho are applying for legal services in anothercontracting state in providing assistance, includingany necessary translation of documents, toenable a person make an application in that state.The agreement also provides that legal aidgranted in the member state in which the court issitting shall cover the costs directly related to thecross-border nature of the dispute includingtranslation costs. Accordingly, in the case of theperson whose case the Deputy has referred to,once the applicant is granted legal aid by the relevantauthority, the board’s role is completed andall issues with regard to the on-going provision oflegal services is a matter for the authority whichhas granted legal aid.Drug Seizures.306. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform his views onrecent comments in a publication (detailssupplied) indicating that there is an increase indemand and availability of cocaine recently in theNorth and that much of the cocaine entering theregion is sourced from the Republic; and if he willmake a statement on the action being taken tocounteract not only demand but also supply.[5733/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): Intelligence available to theGarda Síochána indicates that there is cross-Border movement of controlled drugs in bothdirections.The Garda Síochána and the Police Service ofNorthern Ireland have been involved in a numberof joint drugs investigations which have resultedin significant seizures, including seizures ofcocaine. There is and continues to be close cooperationbetween the two police services in thisregard. Whenever available information so merits,and if appropriate, the Garda and PSNI authoritiesinitiate a joint investigation or operationwith the objective of seizing illicit drugs andapprehending traffickers.In September, 2004 the Garda Síochána andthe Police Service of Northern Ireland launchedthe first ever joint threat assessment on cross-Border organised crime. The threat assessmentcovers a number of crime areas, including drugs.Following on from the launch of the joint threatassessment the two police forces are workingclosely together to further develop the strategicresponse to cross-Border organised crime.The Deputy will appreciate that demandreduction relating to cocaine use in NorthernIreland is not an issue into which the Garda authoritiescan have any practical input.Garda Mounted Unit.307. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform the number ofhorses acquired for the mounted Garda corps; hisplans to increase this number in view of the commentsof the PSNI that one mounted officer canbe the equivalent of five officers on the beat, followingits mounted patrols recently with horseson loan from the Garda Síochána mounted unit;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5734/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the Gardaauthorities who are responsible for the detailedallocation of resources, including personnel, thatthe Garda Mounted Unit currently has a complementof thirteen horses with plans to increasethe unit to its full complement of fifteen horsesin the near future.The Garda Mounted Unit is a nationalresource in support of regional policing requirementsand was established in March 1998. Thecurrent strength of the unit stands at fourteen, allranks. A competition will commence in the nearfuture to return the strength of the unit to itsauthorised strength of 18 members, two sergeantsand 16 gardaí.

471 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 472Garda Investigations.308. Mr. Gregory asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform if the Gardahas investigated the shooting of domesticateddeer at a location (details supplied) in CountySligo as reported in a national newspaper; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[5737/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the Gardaauthorities that a complaint was received by theGarda regarding the incident referred to by theDeputy and that matter is now the subject of aninvestigation. As the Deputy will appreciate, itwould be inappropriate for me to make anyfurther comment regarding Garda involvement inthe investigation.Prisoner Releases.309. Mr. Costello asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform when he proposesto release a person (details supplied); andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5738/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): The case of the person referredto by the Deputy remains the subject of close andcareful review and I have not yet decided on arelease date.Irish Prison Service.310. Mr. Costello asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform the number ofpersons who visited Mountjoy Prison in 2004; thenumber of prisoners admitted to Mountjoy in2004; the number of prisoners released fromMountjoy in 2004; the number of prisoners transferredfrom Mountjoy in 2004; the number ofprisoners taken out of the prison for emergencyservices such as hospital care in 2004; the numberof prisoners transported from Mountjoy to andfrom the courts in 2004; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5739/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): The Governor of MountjoyPrison has indicated a total of 26,071 visits to theprison in the year 2004. The vast majority of thesevisits were to prisoners and the remainder by personssuch as solicitors, gardaí, Irish Prison ServiceHeadquarters staff, contractors, catering anddelivery staff, addiction counsellors, St. Vincentde Paul and The Samaritans. While the exactnumber of persons who visited the prison is notreadily retrievable, it is estimated that, on average,three persons were present during each visitto a prisoner.I can also inform the Deputy that prisonrecords show a total of 2,695 separate committalsto Mountjoy Prison in 2004. This figure includescommittals from the courts and transfers fromother prisons. There were 1,429 prisoner releasesfrom Mountjoy Prison in the same time period.In addition, figures indicate a total of 1,854prisoner transfers out of Mountjoy Prison toother institutions during the year and 736 prisonerescorts to various hospitals for treatment in2004.Finally, there were 2,836 prisoner transfersfrom Mountjoy Prison to court and 3,119 prisonersescorted from court to Mountjoy Prisonduring the year. Legislation is being drafted toallow certain pretrial hearings to be conductedwith the accused remaining in prison but participatingin the proceedings by a video-link betweenthe prison and court. This will reduce the numberof prisoners who have to be transferred to andfrom the courts.Prison Building Programme.311. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform the details ofthe tender process, applicants and applicationsconsidered, including details of the successfulapplicant, for the commissioning of the buildingof the vacant unit adjacent to St. Patrick’s Institutionat Mountjoy Prison. [5853/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): On 14 April, 2002, twomembers of the Garda Síochána were tragicallykilled when struck by a stolen car on the StillorganRoad in Dublin. Following this, on April 17the Government decided to provide up to 20places for offenders aged up to 16 years at StPatrick’s Institution. The contract was not tendered,but was negotiated with the contractorwho submitted the lowest tender for a constructionproject at an adjacent site in MountjoyPrison in December, 2001 which was not proceededwith. This procedure was adopted due tothe urgency of the project at that point in timeand the fact that the Prison Service was advisedby its professional consultants that the rates in theMountjoy tender were competitive, representedvalue for money and were unlikely to beimproved in a new tender competition. The contractwas awarded to Rohcon Limited. The originaltender was conducted by the Office of PublicWorks on behalf of the Prison Service and a totalof seven contractors competed in the process.Garda Complaints Procedures.312. Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform the proceduresopen to victims of crime who are not satisfiedwith the Garda investigation of their case; if hewill seek further clarification, support, advice andassistance to ensure that truth and justice prevails;and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5854/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): If a person is not happy withthe conduct of a member of the Garda Síochána,it is open to him or her to make a complaint tothe Garda Síochána Complaints Board. TheGarda Síochána Complaints Board is currently

473 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 474the statutory body to investigate complaints bymembers of the public against the Garda. A complaintcan be made by writing or by calling toits offices.A complaint can also be made at any GardaStation, and it will be forwarded to the board forattention unless the person indicates in writingthat he or she wishes it to be dealt with by theGarda Síochána itself. The Minister cannot passon a complaint to the board on anyone’s behalfas it is a condition of the relevant legislation thatthe person concerned must make the complaintin one of the ways described. The board is notempowered to deal with complaints not lodgedwithin six months of the date of the incident.The board’s offices are located at Block 1, IrishLife Centre, Lower Abbey Street, Dublin 1, telephoneNo. 01-878 7526.I understand from the Garda authorities thatprocedures put in place in relation to the victimsof crime — which are set out in the Garda Charterfor Victims of Crime — provide that theGarda will inform victims, where a suspect ischarged, of the time, date and location of thecourt hearing of the charges against the accused.Victims who are not satisfied with the investigationof their case or have inquiries, suggestionsor feedback on any aspect of treatment or thevictims of crime by any member of the GardaSíochána may contact the Victim Liaison Officer,Community Relations Section, Harcourt Square,Harcourt Street, Dublin 2. (01) 6663802 or theirlocal superintendent.I can further inform the Deputy that provisionsfor victims is made by a number of Governmentagencies as well as non-governmental organisations.The rights and entitlements of victims ofcrime in Ireland are set out in the Victims Charter,published by my Department in 1999, followingextensive consultations with all relevant agenciesincluding the Courts, Garda Síochána, thePrison Service, the Probation and Welfare Service,the State Prosecution Service and the VictimSupport organisation. Victim Support providessupport to victims of crime and their familiesthrough a network of volunteers nationwide. MyDepartment has provided funding for its administrativeand staff costs amounting to \5.3 millionin the five years up to the end of 2004.The charter makes specific provision for particularlyvulnerable victims such as victims of sexualoffences, domestic violence, elderly victims withdisabilities, and children. It also contains specificprovisions on keeping victims informed of theoutcome of their complaints, the progress of anycriminal proceedings, and the outcome of theseproceedings.It is my intention to arrange for a review ofthe provisions of the Victims Charter in the nearfuture, in order to ensure its continuing relevanceand effectiveness in providing for crime victims.As well as administrative and other provisions,the review will critically examine the deploymentof resources to ensure that they continue todeliver maximum effectiveness as well as valuefor money.The review will also have regard to the EUFramework Decision of 15 March 2001 on theStanding of Victims in Criminal Proceedings,which sets out to harmonise the treatment of victimsof crime across the EU, to ensure thatIreland continues to meet its commitments inthat regard.Asylum Applications.313. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Ministerfor Justice, Equality and Law Reform whenhe proposes to make a decision on an applicationfor family reunification for a person (detailssupplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5856/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): In the course of processing theapplication for family reunification in respect ofthe person concerned questions arose in relationto the validity of the marriage. This issue is currentlybeing investigated. When the investigationhas been completed a decision on the applicationwill be taken at that stage.Registration of Title.314. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform further toParliamentary Question No. 323 of 14 December2004, the reason for the delay in having this person’s(details supplied) application processed;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5883/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the Registrarof Titles that this is an application for Transfer ofPart which was lodged on 14 June, 1999. DealingNumber D1999CR003738J refers.I am further informed that this application wascompleted on 17 February, 2005.Garda Stations.315. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice,Equality and Law Reform the reason for thedelay in progressing the new Garda station promisedfor Ballymun; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5919/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): Before a new station can bebuilt in Ballymun, it is necessary for the State tohave secured a suitable site there.In that regard, I understand that the Commissionersof Public Works are in negotiation withBallymun Regeneration Limited regarding aspecific site. Once secured, the planning processfor the new station can commence.

475 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 476Children Act.316. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform the exactsections and provisions of the Children Act 2001that have not commenced; if he will give a proposeddate for their commencement. [5921/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): The Children Act 2001 is a verycomplex and comprehensive piece of legislationand, for those reasons, provisions under the Actare being implemented on a phased basis, as wasenvisaged at the time of enactment.Responsibility for implementing the ChildrenAct 2001 lies with three Departments, theDepartments of Justice, Equality and LawReform and Education and Science mainly inrespect of juvenile offending, and the Departmentof Health and Children mainly in respect ofchildren who are non-offending but out of control.The National Children’s Office is co-ordinatingthe cross-departmental aspects of the implementationof the Act.Three main areas of the Act for which I haveresponsibility remain to be brought into operation.These concern the age of criminal responsibility,community-based options, and the provisionof children detention centres for 16 and 17year old offenders.The first commencement order under the Actin respect of my Department was signed by mypredecessor on 23 April 2002. This order, whichcame into force on 1 May 2002, brought intooperation a wide range of provisions, includingPart IV — diversion programmes, including theGarda restorative justice provisions, most of PartVI — treatment of child suspects in Gardastations, Part VII — Childrens Court, Part XII —child protection measures.Among the other provisions which werebrought into operation on 1 May 2002 were thepayment of compensation by parents in respectof offences committed by their children — section113 of the Act, a court order which would requireparents to exercise proper and adequate controlover their children — section 114 of the Act, andrestriction on movement order.I signed the second commencement orderunder the Act on 29 July 2004. This order broughtinto operation the remaining restorative justiceprovisions. Restorative justice is a philosophicalframework which considers the ways in whichcrime harms relationships in the context of thecommunity. It is a way of dealing with victims andoffenders by focusing on the settlement of conflictsarising from crime and resolving the underlyingproblems which cause it.The family conference which was placed on astatutory basis on 29 July 2004 is convened by theprobation and welfare service and the conveningof the conference is directed by the court whereit considers that the preparation of an action planwould be desirable in an individual case.A pilot programme for the mentor — familysupport — order is due to commence shortly.Pilot programmes of parental supervision ordersare also being developed and are expected to beintroduced later this year.The following tabular statement outlines thesections of the Children Act 2001 which have notyet been fully commenced in so far as my Departmentis concerned.Children Act, 2001Part Section Description6 59 Notification to Health Board61(1)(b)Interviewing children8 77 Referral of case to Health Board88 Remand in Custody9 96 Principles relating to exercise of criminal jurisdiction over children97 Construction of certain reference98 Orders on finding of guilt99 — 107 Probation Officer and other reports111 — 112 Parental supervision115 — 132 Community sanctions137 — 139 Other aspects of community orders140 -147 150-153 Detention provisions154 Amendment of the Criminal Justice (Community Service) Act, 1983155 Punishment of certain indictable offences156 Restriction on punishment of children13 259 Duties of probation officers262 Delegation by principal probation & welfare officer263 Temporary accommodation of children265 Right of appeal

477 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 478Prison Service.317. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister forJustice, Equality and Law Reform the amount ofmoney which has been expended in refurbishingthe Mountjoy Prison complex in the past tenyears. [5922/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): The Mountjoy Prison complexincludes Mountjoy Male Prison, St. Patrick’sInstitution, the Dóchas Centre and the trainingunit. I am informed by the Irish Prison Servicethat the information requested by the Deputy isnot readily available. I have directed the IrishPrison Service to forward the informationrequested directly to the Deputy as soon aspossible.Registration of Title.318. Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Justice,Equality and Law Reform if a land registry dealing(details supplied) will be expedited.[5934/05]Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform(Mr. McDowell): I am informed by the Registrarof Titles that this is an application for transfer ofall of folio which was lodged on 5 July 2004. DealingNumber D2004CS007245Q refers. I amfurther informed that a query issued to the lodgingsolicitor on 6 September 2004 and that areminder issued on 17 February 2005. On receiptof a satisfactory reply to this query, the matterwill receive further attention in the LandRegistry.Question No. 319 answered with QuestionNo. 304.Tax Code.320. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Educationand Science if, in respect of the operationof section 50 tax relief for student accommodation,there is any conflict of interest on the partof third level institutions where they are the regulatorof the scheme and in many cases are providersof the scheme; and if she has any plans toreview this aspect of the scheme. [5914/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): Third level institutions must work topromote the best interest and welfare of students.The role bestowed on them under the section 50tax scheme and the rationale for that role is consistentwith that objective. Their participatoryrole in providing accommodation is not incongruouswith their function of safeguarding and promotingthe best interest of students. There are noplans to review this aspect of the scheme.Capitation Grants.321. Ms Enright asked the Minister for Educationand Science if she has issued any guidelinesin respect of schools within the free educationscheme that levy a top-up fee on parents; if shehas considered the case of a school (detailssupplied) in this matter; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5615/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): Voluntary contributions by parents ofpupils in recognised primary schools are permissibleprovided it is made clear to parents that thereis no question of compulsion to pay and that, inmaking a contribution, they are doing so of theirown volition. The manner in which such voluntarycontributions are sought and collected is amatter for school management. However theircollection should be such as not to create a situationwhere either parents or pupils could reasonablyinfer that the contributions take on a compulsorycharacter.The school referred to by the Deputy has temporaryrecognition. All issues, including thematter of payment of fees, would be taken intoaccount in the context of consideration beinggiven to extending permanent recognition to theschool.It should be noted that capitation funding hasincreased significantly in recent years from \57per primary pupil in 1997 to \134 in 2005 and to\286 per pupil at second level.Special Educational Needs.322. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Educationand Science the position regarding the provisionof special services for children withAsperger’s syndrome at St. Joseph’s secondaryschool in Fairview; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5619/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): My Department is actively engaged inpursuing the development of a second level programmefor children with Asperger’s syndrome onDublin’s north side. A letter outlining proposalsregarding the establishment of a unit for pupilswith Asperger’s syndrome has recently issued tothe school referred to by the Deputy.Schools Building Projects.323. Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister forEducation and Science the proposals for a newschool (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [5621/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): The long-term accommodation needsof the school referred to by the Deputy are beingassessed in the context of an overall review ofprimary educational infrastructure in the area inquestion. This assessment is taking into accountthe likely demand for primary school places inthe medium to long term and it will determinehow existing provision can be maximised to caterfor this demand. A decision on how best theaccommodation needs of the school in questioncan be met will be taken when this broader examinationhas been completed.

479 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 480Special Educational Needs.324. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister forEducation and Science if her Department proposeto establish a special needs class for Down’ssyndrome children at a location (detailssupplied). [5633/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I have requested my Department’sinspectorate to discuss the matter referred to bythe Deputy with the school in question. Thematter will be progressed further as soon as thisprocess has been completed.Schools Refurbishment.325. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Educationand Science if she will provide funding toa school (details supplied) in County Galway tofacilitate the purchase of furniture and equipment;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5651/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): An application for new-replacementfurniture has not been received from the schoolreferred to by the Deputy. I will make arrangementsfor an application form to issue to theschool as soon as possible. The school buildingunit will be in further contact with the schoolauthorities once this application has beenreceived.Special Educational Needs.326. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Educationand Science, further to Question No. 487of 8 February 2005, the extra teaching supportand special needs assistance specifically allocatedto the person attending a second level school; ifthis case will be reviewed as a matter of urgency;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5659/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): Where a pupil with special educationalneeds enrols in a post-primary school, it is opento the school to apply for additional teaching supportand-or special needs assistant support for thepupil. My Department allocates additional teachingsupport and special needs assistant supportto second level schools and vocational educationcommittees to cater for pupils with special educationalneeds. Each application is considered onthe basis of the assessed needs of the pupilsinvolved and having regard to a range of factorsincluding the overall resources available to theschool.An application for additional teaching supportand special needs assistant support for a numberof pupils, including the pupil referred to by theDeputy, was received in my Department on 21June 2004. The school authority was notified ofthe outcome of this application on 24 September2004. Subsequently an appeal was received in myDepartment on 12 October 2004 and the schoolauthority was notified of the outcome of thisappeal on the 1 November 2004.My Department has approved an allocation of75.62 hours’ teaching support per week and 45hours’ special needs assistant support per weekto the school in question to cater for the specialeducational needs of a number of pupils, includingthe pupil to which the Deputy refers. Thelevel of support allocated was determined afterdetailed consideration of the school’s application,the supporting documentation provided and havingregard to the overall level of resourcesalready available to the school to address specialneeds issues. If the school authority is of the viewthat the existing approved allocation is incapableof addressing the current level of assessed specialneeds within the school and additional informationto that already submitted becomes available,my Department will be prepared to reconsiderthe case.Grant Payments.327. Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Educationand Science the grant aid advanced to theInstitute of Design and Disability for the years2003 and 2004; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5690/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): My Department does not provide anyfunding to the Institute of Design and Disabilityand therefore did not provide any funding to theinstitute for the years in question.Tax Code.328. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Educationand Science when a person (details supplied) inCounty Kildare will be issued with a P60 from herDepartment; and if she will make a statement onthe matter. [5744/05]329. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Educationand Science when a person (details supplied) inCounty Kildare will be issue with a P60 from herDepartment; and if she will make a statement onthe matter. [5745/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I propose to take Questions Nos. 328and 329 together.It is planned to issue P60s to all special needsassistants employed in primary schools, includingthe two persons referred to by the Deputy, on24 February.Special Educational Needs.330. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forEducation and Science the supports which herDepartment will put in place to assist a person(details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if herDepartment will take a proactive approach inmeeting this person’s needs; if a report on theirneeds is already available; if not, if one will bearranged immediately; and if she will make astatement on the matter. [5746/05]

481 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 482Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): With effect from 1 January 2005, theNational Council for Special Education throughlocal special educational needs organisers willprocess resource applications for children withspecial educational needs. The National Councilfor Special Education has been established as anindependent statutory body with responsibilitiesas set out in the National Council for SpecialEducation (Establishment) Order 2003. Where apupil with special educational needs enrols in apost-primary school, it is open to the school toapply to the local SENO for additional teachingsupport and-or special needs assistant support forthe pupil.My Department has recently issued circular letterPPT 01/05 advising the authorities of post-primaryschools of the arrangements put in place asa result of the transfer of these functions to theNCSE. I am confident that the establishment ofthe National Council for Special Education willprove of major benefit in ensuring that all childrenwith special educational needs receive thesupport they require when and where theyrequire it.331. Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Educationand Science if, in view of the fact thatEnnis is one of the largest centres of populationin County Clare with no provision for educationfor children and teenagers suffering from autism,she will provide facilities at one of the schools inEnnis as a matter of extreme urgency; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5766/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I am most anxious that all children,including children with autistic spectrum disorders,receive education appropriate to theirneeds.There are three special classes catering forpupils with autism in mainstream primary schoolsin County Clare as well as three special classes inspecial schools in the county. My Department hasreceived an application to establish an additionalspecial class for autism from a primary school inCounty Clare. My officials are liaising with theNational Educational Psychological Serviceregarding the application and a decision will beconveyed to the school as soon as this process hasbeen completed.Schools Refurbishment.332. Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Educationand Science if a mechanical lift will be providedat a school (details supplied) in CountyCork; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5773/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): The application from the schoolreferred to by the Deputy for the provision offunding for a mechanical lift under the 2005 summerworks scheme is under consideration. Detailsof schools with projects approved under the SWS2005 will be outlined in the near future.Third Level Fees.333. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister forEducation and Science if financial assistance isavailable for a person (details supplied) inCounty Donegal; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5833/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): In 1996-97, my Department’s studentsupport schemes were extended to provide maintenancegrants to eligible students pursuingapproved full-time undergraduate courses of atleast two years’ duration in other EU memberstates, including the UK. The courses must be followedin a university or third level institution,which is maintained or assisted by recurrentgrants from public funds. The extension of theschemes at that time did not extend to courses atpostgraduate level. Students attending approvedcourses in other EU member states are subject tothe same conditions of funding as studentsattending approved courses in the State. Themain conditions of funding relate to age, residence,means, nationality and previous academicattainment.Tax relief on tuition fees is available in respectof approved courses at undergraduate and postgraduatelevel in other EU member states. Inrecent years, the UK authorities introduced anumber of changes in the financial supportarrangements for students pursuing courses atfurther and higher education institutions. Theseincluded the introduction of an annual tuition feefor students entering further and higher educationinstitutions for the first time from the 1998-99 academic year and the replacement of maintenancegrants by student loans to be phased infrom that year also. All EU students, includingIrish students, are eligible for consideration forgrant assistance towards the tuition fee subject tothe same conditions as apply to UK students.School Class Sizes.334. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Ministerfor Education and Science the averagenumber of pupils in primary school classes; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter.[5834/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): The system for allocating teachers toprimary schools is based on ensuring an overallmaximum class of 29 in each school. Where someclasses in a school have class sizes of greater than29, it is generally because a decision has beentaken at local level to use their teaching resourcesto have smaller numbers in other classes.The Deputy should note that significantimprovements have been made in this area inrecent years. The average class size at primarylevel is now 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996-97. Thepupil teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers

483 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 484[Ms Hanafin.]in the school including resource teachers, hasfallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to17.44:1 in 2003-’04. Over 4,000 additionalteachers have been employed in our primaryschools since 1997. These additional teachingposts have been used to reduce class sizes, totackle educational disadvantage and to provideadditional resources for children with specialneeds.Significantly smaller class sizes have beenintroduced in disadvantaged schools involved inthe Giving Children an Even Break — Breakingthe Cycle programme, with approximately 47,700pupils in 243 participating schools availing ofreduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils perclass. In line with An Agreed Programme forGovernment commitment, class sizes for theunder-nines will continue to be reduced further.Educational Projects.335. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Educationand Science the funds given to communitygroups in the Dublin South-East area for afterschoolprojects; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5841/05]336. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Educationand Science the course of action whichcommunity groups can pursue if they have notspent money received from her Department; andif she will make a statement on the matter.[5842/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I propose to take Questions Nos. 335and 336 together.While my Department does not operate a specificnational scheme for the provision of afterschoolprojects, it supports a range of programmeswhich target additional resources atpupils from educationally disadvantaged backgroundsin order to facilitate their full participationin the education system.Eighty-two projects, 112 post-primary schoolsand 300 primary schools, participate in the schoolcompletion programme, which aims to developlocal strategies to ensure maximum participationlevels in the education process. It entails targetingindividual young people of school going age, bothin and out of school, and arranging supports toaddress inequalities in education access, participationand outcomes. Each project site mustdevise a collaborative programme of in-schooland out-of-school actions, which provide afterschool,holiday time, home, family and communitysupports to enhance the young person’sreadiness to benefit from education. There aretwo school completion programme clusters servingschools in south-east Dublin. These clusters,comprising three post-primary and seven primaryschools, have received an allocation in excess of\400,000 in 2004-05.My Department also provides funding forhomework clubs in disadvantaged areas underthe fund for the development of targetedresponses to certain children at risk. This fund isthe responsibility of my colleague, the Ministerof State, Deputy Brian Lenihan. Its purpose is todevelop preventative and supportive programmestargeted at children and young people who are atrisk of educational disadvantage and socialexclusion. Under this fund, three projects arebeing supported in Dublin South East in 2005.These projects, including the Life Centre inPearse Street and the Rathmines Information andCommunity Services Centre, have received combinedfunding in excess of \70,000 in 2004-05. Itis a general requirement that projects supportedunder the above-named programmes spend theirallocation within the relevant calendar or schoolyear. In cases where a particular group does notexhaust its full allocation within the prescribedtimeframe, this will be taken into account by myDepartment in determining the level of supportrequired by the project in the following year. Ifthe Deputy has any queries regarding particularprojects, I will arrange for a direct response toissue if relevant details are forwarded to myDepartment.Property Transfers.337. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Educationand Science if her Department owns anyof the school property in the Dublin South-Eastarea; the schools to which this applies; and if shewill make a statement on the matter. [5843/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): There are different management andownership structures for voluntary secondaryschools, vocational schools, community colleges,community and comprehensive schools and primaryschools. In general, voluntary secondaryschools are privately owned and managed institutions,whereas all community and comprehensiveschools are vested in the Minister for Educationand Science. Vocational schools andcommunity colleges are public schools owned andmanaged by vocational education committeeswho are responsible for the day-to-day running ofthese schools and colleges.The vast majority of denominational and multidenominationalprimary schools are owned bythe relevant patron. The sites and school buildingsprovided for Gaelscoileanna are vested inthe Minister for Education and Science.Since 1999, the State offers to provide the fullcost of sites for all new schools at both primaryand second level. Where the State bears the costof the site purchase new school buildings providedon these sites would be vested in the Ministerand leased to the school operator.If the Deputy wishes to identify a particularschool property I will arrange to have the ownershipdetails made available to him.School Staffing.338. Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for

485 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 486Education and Science if, in view of the classroomcircumstances of Gaeltacht primaryschools, she will concede the same appointmentthresholds for additional teachers as apply inGaelscoileanna; and if the appointment of anadditional teacher will be sanctioned at a Gaeltachtschool (details supplied) in County Cork forSeptember 2005. [5865/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): Under present arrangements, theappointment requirement for mainstream classteachers in Gaelscoileanna operates to a lowerratio up to the appointment of 13 teachers, relativeto other primary schools, including thoselocated in the Gaeltacht.I am aware of the unique position of primaryschools situated in Gaeltacht areas and of theparticular problems that they experience as aresult of losing teaching posts. In this context,since the start of the 1999-00 school year, thestaffing schedule for the retention of posts inGaelscoileanna has applied to Gaeltacht schools.The staffing of a primary school is determinedby reference to the enrolment of the school on 30September of the previous year. The mainstreamstaffing of the school referred to by the Deputyfor the current school year is a principal and threemainstream class teachers based on the enrolmentof 107 pupils on 30 September, 2003. Theschool also has a resource post and the servicesof two shared learning support posts.According to data submitted to my Departmentby the board of management the enrolmenton 30 September 2004 was 110 pupils. The staffingfor the 2005-06 school year will be determinedin accordance with the agreed staffing schedulewhich is expected to be notified to boards of managementin the near future.As outlined in primary circular 19/02, an independentappeals board was established to adjudicateon appeals from boards of management onthe staffing allocations in primary schools. Theappeal board operates independently of the Ministerand my Department and its decision is final.Appeals in respect of staffing for the 2005-06school year must be submitted to primary paymentssection, Department of Education andScience, Athlone, on the standard applicationform, clearly stating the criterion under which theappeal is being made.Schools Building Projects.339. Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Educationand Science if her Department hasreceived an application from a school (detailssupplied) in County Wexford for additionalclassrooms urgently needed in the school; if thesewill be provided and when; if not, the reasontherefor; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5877/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): An application for additional accommodationhas been received from the school towhich the Deputy refers. This application hasbeen assessed in accordance with the publishedprioritisation criteria, which were revised followingconsultation with the education partners. Progresson this project is being considered in thecontext of the school building programme.In this regard, the Deputy will be aware that Irecently announced the first phase of the 2005school building programme which provideddetails of 122 major school building projectscountry wide which will prepare tenders andmove to construction during 2005. Thisannouncement is the first in a series of announcementsI plan to make in the coming period inrelation to the schools building and modernisationprogramme that will include details ofschools identified as suitable for constructionunder public private partnerships; an expansionof the number of schools that will be invited todeliver their building projects on the basis ofdevolved funding; details of schools with projectsapproved under the 2005 summer works scheme;schools whose projects will further progressthrough the design process; and schools that willbe authorised to commence architecturalplanning.Special Educational Needs.340. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Educationand Science her views on the assessmentscarried out on special needs assistants; and ifthere has been a delay in notifying applicants whowere informed that a decision would be madeafter Christmas. [5880/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I take it that the Deputy is referring tothe review of special needs assistant, SNA, provisionin primary schools. The review commencedin September 2004 and is continuing. The reviewis concerned with the level and deployment ofSNA posts in mainstream classes. The intentionis to ensure that the level of approved SNA supportin schools, and the manner in which that supportis being allocated, are such as to ensure thatthe special care needs of pupils are being appropriatelymet.Decisions regarding the appropriate level ofSNA support in respect of applications made tomy Department will be based on the outcome ofthis review. It is my intention that decisions willissue to the schools concerned at an early date.341. Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Educationand Science if the application for aresource teacher and special needs assistance supportfor a person (details supplied) in CountyKerry has been successful. [5881/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): The pupil in question is currently inreceipt of 2.5 hours resource teaching support.My Department has received an application toincrease this support to five hours per week. Inaddition, the school has made an application for

487 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 488[Ms Hanafin.]15 hours per week special needs assistant, SNA,support for the pupil.My Department advised the school on 9 November2004 that the pupil’s special educationneeds, SEN, appear to be within the high incidencecategory and he is therefore receiving thelevel of resource teaching support appropriate tohis category of need. It would be expected thatthe pupil’s SEN can be met from within the currentresource-learning support teaching allocationavailable to the school. The school currentlyhas the services of one shared learningsupport post together with 13 hours part-timeresource teaching support. It is a matter for theschool to deploy these resources to meet the SENof the pupils in the school.The Deputy may be aware that a review ofSNA provision in primary schools commenced inSeptember 2004 and is continuing. The review isconcerned with the level and deployment of SNAposts in mainstream classes. The intention is toensure that the level of approved SNA support inschools, and the manner in which that support isbeing allocated, are such as to ensure that thespecial care needs of pupils are being appropriatelymet.Decisions regarding the appropriate level ofSNA support for the pupil in question will bebased on the outcome of this review and adecision will issue to the school as quickly aspossible.Site Acquisitions.342. Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Educationand Science when the land for the promisednew school (details supplied) in CountyDublin will be purchased; the alternative arrangementswhich are in place for the rapidly growingpopulation of this area until the school is completed;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5912/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I am pleased to inform the Deputy thata suitable site for the school in question has beenidentified. Acquisition of the site is at anadvanced conveyancing stage. The schoolreferred to by the Deputy have not requestedadditional accommodation, however, a newschool in this area is expected to commence operationnext September and the planning section ofmy Department is currently liaising with thechairperson of the board of management with aview to procuring temporary accommodation tofacilitate its commencement plans.Schools Building Projects.343. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forEducation and Science when approval will begiven to proceed to tender stage for the extensionof a school (details supplied) in County Galway;if her attention has been drawn to the fact thatthis college is now almost 40 years without a gymand sports hall; the reason progress has been soslow; and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5935/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): The building project for the schoolreferred to by the Deputy is at an early stage ofarchitectural planning and includes the provisionof a physical education hall. I recently announceddetails of 122 major school building projects thatwill progress to tender and construction phaseover the next 12 to 15 months under the \3.4billion multi-annual funding secured for the years2005-09. I am anxious to ensure that a consistentflow of projects to tender and construction can besustained into the future. I plan to make anumber of announcements in the near future inrelation to the schools building and modernisationprogramme including details of those schoolprojects which will further progress through thedesign process. All projects in architectural planning,including the school in question, will be consideredas part of this process.Higher Education Grants.344. Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister forEducation and Science if funding will be suppliedto a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 giventhe circumstances of their case; and if she willmake a statement on the matter. [5943/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): The higher education grants schemesoperate under the Local Authorities (HigherEducation Grants) Acts 1968 to 1992.Under the higher education grants scheme anapproved course is defined as a full-time undergraduatecourse of at least two years duration ora full-time postgraduate course of not less thanone year duration pursued in an approvedinstitution.An approved institution is defined to mean auniversity college or other institution of highereducation in so far as it provides a course orcourses of not less than two years duration, beinga course, or courses, which the Minister for Educationand Science approves for the time beingfor the purposes of the Acts.Each year, the higher education grants schemespecifies a list of approved institutions for thepurposes of the schemes. The approved institutionsmainly comprise of public funded thirdlevel institutions. In this regard, the studentreferred to by the Deputy is not attending anapproved college for the purpose of the scheme.Any extension to the scope of the grantsscheme, to include private colleges such as GriffithCollege can be considered only in the light ofavailable resources and in the context of competingdemands within the education sector. Thereare no plans at present to extend the scope of thestudent support schemes to private colleges. Taxrelief, at the standard rate of tax, is available ontuition fees paid to certain private colleges in theState, including Griffith College. Further details

489 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 490and conditions in relation to such tax relief areavailable from any tax office.Vocational Education Committees.345. Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Educationand Science if her attention has beendrawn to the ongoing difficulties in implementingthe Vocational Education (Amendment) Act2001, resulting in Kildare VEC not yet holding ameeting of the new committee since the 2004local elections; her views on the legislation toensure, in particular, that parents are appropriatelyrepresented; and if she will make a statementon the matter. [5949/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I am aware that County Kildare VEChas not been in a position to hold the first meetingof its newly re-constituted committee. Iunderstand that the reason for the delay is due tothe finalising of the appointment process by thelocal authorities of four members from amongnominated representatives of community, voluntaryand other interests as set out in theVocational Education (Amendment) Act 2001. Itis expected that this appointment process will becompleted shortly and that the first meeting ofthe new meeting will take place in March next.The Vocational Education (Amendment) Act2001 represents a new departure by giving a statutoryright to parents and guardians to be representedon VECs for the first time. The electionof parent representatives heralds a significantstep in the partnership process whereby representativesof parents, VEC staff and other relevantcommunity interests will sit alongside electedlocal authority members on VECs for the firsttime. The Act provides for a balance in representationof members between the different categorieswith two members to be elected by parents,two members to be elected by VEC staff and fourmembers to be appointed from among the nominatedrepresentatives of community, commercialand other interests in addition to the elected localauthority members. I am confident that the viewsof parents will now be adequately represented onthe new committees and I have no proposals tochange the position at this stage.School Management.346. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Educationand Science, further to ParliamentaryQuestion No. 333 of 2 February 2005, if her attentionhas been drawn to the fact that the newboard of management for the Ballymun comprehensiveschools will comprise representatives ofboth parents and teachers; and her views on thefact that there is no further delay in appointingthe board. [5950/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): To expedite the appointment of a principalto oversee the commencement of the newBallymun comprehensive school, it is essentialthat a board of management is appointedimmediately. This board must be constituted inaccordance with the existing model which doesnot, at this point in time, allow for parent orteacher representation. This board, however, willbe replaced by a board that will include such representationfollowing the finalisation of revisedarrangements for the composition of boards ofmanagement across the comprehensive sector.Agreement on these arrangements is nearing conclusionwith the relevant education partners.The parties involved in the Ballymun comprehensiveschool have been informed of theposition.Schools Building Projects.347. Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Educationand Science the nature and extent of capitalworks which need to be carried out to the Ballymuncomprehensive schools prior to theamalgamation of these schools taking place; andwhen funding will be provided for theseworks. [5951/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): I am pleased to be able to inform theDeputy that tenders in excess of \9 million havebeen accepted for a major refurbishment andextension programme at Ballymun comprehensiveschools to enable the planned amalgamationtake place. The contractor went on site on 24January last and I am confident that the amalgamationwill proceed, as intended, on 1 September2005.School Transport.348. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Educationand Science if she will sanction an extensionof school transport for a school (detailssupplied) in County Kerry to facilitate 12 childrenas outlined in a memo sent by Bus Éireann,Tralee, to head office on 10 November 2003; andif she will make a statement on the matter.[5952/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): On the basis of the information suppliedby Bus Éireann in its report of 10 November2003, only two families are eligible fortransport to the school referred to in the detailssupplied. These families have a pick-up point 0.3and 0.8 miles from their homes. This is consideredto be a reasonable level of service in the contextof the general operation of the scheme.The seven children of the remaining fourfamilies are not eligible for school transport tothe school referred to in the details. These childrenmay avail of concessionary transport to thatschool subject to no additional State costs beingincurred by way of extending or altering the routeof the existing service.Special Educational Needs.349. Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Educationand Science if her attention has been

491 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 492[Mr. Crawford.]drawn to the fact that two persons (detailssupplied) in County Monaghan who wereassessed by Department personnel and found toneed remedial tuition have now been advised thatno remedial help is available; and if she will makea statement on the matter. [5985/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): Having confirmed the identities of thepupils in question with the Deputy’s office, I wishto confirm that my Department considered applicationsfor resource teaching support for bothpupils. The school was advised on 4 February2005 that the pupils do not qualify for resourceteaching support as the applications did not meetthe criteria for such support. The school currentlyhas the services of a learning support teacher postand a resource teacher post supporting a totalenrolment of 28 pupils. It would be expected thatthe special educational needs of both pupils canbe met from within these resources. I understandthat the assessments were carried out by a personwho was a former member of my Department’sstaff.350. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Educationand Science the reason special needs assistantsin primary school both part-time and fulltimestaff receive holiday pay but assistants inthird level colleges do not receive such a payment;the plans she has to review this situation;and if she will make a statement on thematter. [5987/05]Minister for Education and Science (MsHanafin): Personal assistants are utilised withinthird level colleges for certain classes of studentswith disabilities, mainly those with physical ormobility difficulties. The main source of fundingfor personal assistants is the fund for studentswith disabilities. Colleges of further and highereducation can apply on behalf of students whorequire a personal assistant in order to participateequitably in their education. Contractual arrangementsin relation to personal assistants varybetween institutions. Most colleges either useagencies that supply personal assistants, oremploy personal assistants directly on temporarypart-time or wholetime contracts. In both cases,the employer of the personal assistant is requiredto comply with the relevant employment legislationwhich is in force at this time. In somesmaller colleges, personal assistants are contractedon a self-employed basis directly by thestudent, who is provided with the necessaryresources by their college.The manner in which the personal assistantsare employed is a matter for each institution. Theterms and conditions of employment foremployees who provide support for students withdisabilities in third level is a matter for the individualcolleges concerned.Departmental Correspondence.351. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defenceif he will investigate the issues raised in correspondence(details supplied); and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5640/05]Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea): The issuesraised in the correspondence referred to by theDeputy are not a matter for the Department ofDefence, nor has an application to use DefenceForces facilities been received from the group inquestion.Defence Forces Ombudsman.352. Mr. Stanton asked the Minister forDefence the position regarding the DefenceForces ombudsman, including powers and functionsand date of commencement of the role; ifthe ombudsman will be able to investigate complaintsby persons who are no longer members ofthe Defence Forces; the way in which theombudsman can be contacted; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5658/05]Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea): The personappointed to be the ombudsman for the DefenceForces will be selected through a process of openpublic competition held by the Public AppointmentsService. This competition will be advertisedas soon as possible.As regards the matter of former members ofthe Defence Forces making application to theDefence Forces ombudsman, on his-her appointment,the position is that the Ombudsman(Defence Forces) Act 2004 generally providesthat both serving and former members of theDefence Forces may make an application within12 months of the occurrence of an action complainedof or within 12 months of the applicanthaving become aware of the action complainedof. However, members and former members ofthe Defence Forces will not be able to makeapplication to the Defence Forces ombudsman inregard to a matter which pre-dates the commencementof the legislation. Complaints madeby serving members of the Defence Forces relatingto matters pre-dating the commencement ofthe legislation may be submitted to the Ministerthrough the structured redress of wrongs process,as at present, on a transitional basis when the newlegislation is commenced.Defence Forces Property.353. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defencethe position regarding overholders in theCurragh, County Kildare; the position regardinghis Department’s proposals to address the matter;his plan to provide alternative accommodationfor these persons and their families; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5763/05]Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea): Personnelon being discharged from the Permanent DefenceForce are obliged to vacate married quarterswithin a short period of the dates of their dis-

493 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 494charge. The provision of housing is primarily amatter for the local authorities and marriedmilitary personnel have an equal claim on suchhousing as other members of the community inthe same income category. My Department iscontinuing to examine all options, includingaffordable housing and voluntary and cooperativehousing schemes, with regard to the rehousingof those overholders who would in thenormal way be eligible for local authority housing.The Department remains in contact with theoverholders pending resolution of the issue.354. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defencethe number of houses purchased by tenants at anestate (details supplied) in County Kildare; thenumber still in negotiation; his proposals to concludethe stated sales; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5764/05]Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea): To date 85of the 100 houses at Orchard Park have been soldto the occupants. A contract of sale and deed oftransfer have been executed in respect of anothercase. Two further houses are in the process ofbeing sold by tender and it is expected that thesesales will also be completed in 2005. The sales ofthe remaining 12 quarters to the occupants arebeing actively pursued.355. Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defencethe position in regard to the takeover of theOrchard Park housing estate, The Curragh,County Kildare by Kildare County Council; andif he will make a statement on the matter.[5765/05]Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea): KildareCounty Council has advised that the roads, servicesetc. at Orchard Park will have to be broughtup to the required standard before they will betaken in charge. It is hoped to undertake a programmeof works later in the year to ensure thefacilities at the estate are up to the standardrequired. In the interim a contractor is beingengaged to carry out emergency repairs to theroads.Architectural Heritage.356. Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifhe will consider an application for grant assistancetowards repair and restoration of a premises(details supplied) in County Kildare; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [6008/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): No applicationhas been received in my Department for grantassistance for the building referred to in the questionunder the scheme of EU co-financed grantsfor the conservation of the architectural heritageprovided for under the National DevelopmentPlan 2000-2006. My Department has also establishedthat no application for funding has beenmade to Kildare County Council under the grantsscheme for the conservation of protected structureswhich is administered by local authorities,although the council is aware of the project.Applications for grant assistance in 2005 undereither of these schemes are now closed. It will beopen to the project promoters to lodge an applicationfor assistance under the 2006 schemes.Waste Management.357. Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe progress which has been made on the promisedintroduction of a common nationwide wastecharges waiver system for qualifying applicants.[6095/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The provisionby a local authority of a waiver in respect of allor part of a charge in respect of the provision ofa waste service by or on behalf of the authority issolely a matter for the local authority concerned.My Department has no function in the matter.However, the issue of waste charges and lowincome persons-households has been raised in asocial partnership context arising from SustainingProgress. Discussions are continuing between myDepartment and the Department of Social, Communityand Family Affairs in terms of identifyinghow any outstanding issues might be addressed.Social and Affordable Housing.358. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe average cost per unit of delivery of socialhousing in the State. [5580/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): The last full year for whichactual social housing unit costs are available is2003 and these are set out in the following table:2003 National Dublin\ \Local Authority 142,000 175,000Voluntary and Co-operative(Capital Loan and SubsidyScheme) 149,000 201,500House Completions.359. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe house completions in each of the past fiveyears; the percentage of these each year whichwere social housing; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5581/05]360. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe house completions in each of the past fiveyears; the percentage of these each year whichwere second homes; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5582/05]

495 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 496Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): I propose to take Questions Nos.359 and 360 together.Details regarding total house completions,including those provided by the State, under thelocal authority housing programme and the voluntaryand co-operative housing sector are setout in my Department’s housing statistics bulletin,copies of which are available in theOireachtas Library and on the Department’swebsite at www.environ.ie.Details from the statistics bulletin reveal thatthe number of social houses completed by thelocal authorities and under the various voluntaryhousing schemes has doubled since 2000 — table1. The share of social housing has increased byapproximately 30% since 2000. This reflects successfulpolicies to encourage an increase in overallhousing supply together with a commitment toincreasing the rate for building of social houses.Table 1 House completions — Total and Social housing.Number of House Completions Numbers of Newly Percentage Social Housing %Built Social Houses2000 49,812 3,155 6.32001 52,602 4,875 9.32002 57,695 5,763 10.02003 68,819 6,133 8.92004 (9 months) 54,170 3,123 5.7These figures do not reflect the total provision ofsocial housing as they do not include the numberof acquisitions of housing units for social rentedaccommodation or the casual vacancies in socialhousing stock that occur each year. It is expectedthat the accommodation needs of more than13,000 households will have been addressed in2004 through the various social and affordablehousing measures.A definitive breakdown of house completionseither by type of purchaser or whether they weresecond, holiday or investment homes cannot beprovided at present. My Department is in discussionwith the Central Statistics Office regardingthe collection of more reliable information onsecond homes with the objective of addressingthis information deficit.EU Directives.361. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe position regarding the implementation of thenitrates directive, 91/676/EEC; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5597/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): I refer to thereply to Question No. 346 of 1 February 2005.Work is continuing in my Department, in cooperationwith the Department of Agricultureand Food, to prepare a response to the EuropeanCommission letter of formal notice — Article 228— in regard to Ireland’s nitrates actionprogramme.Housing Aid for the Elderly.362. Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe criteria under the housing aid scheme for theelderly which prevents two elderly persons fromqualifying for the grant; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5599/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): Under the special housing aidfor the elderly scheme, which is operated by theHealth Service Executive, formerly the healthboards, in line with various guidelines issued fromtime to time by the task force which administersthe scheme under the aegis of my Department,aid is provided to improve the housing conditionsof elderly persons living alone in unfit or insanitaryconditions. The household may include morethan one elderly person. Aid is not availablewhere others who are not elderly are resident inthe house. Decisions to grant assistance in individualcases are the responsibility of the HealthService Executive at local level and it is a matterfor the relevant community care department todetermine, within the funds available, the priorityof cases on hand.Local Authority Housing.363. Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe number of houses constructed or started byLaois County Council on a year by year basis forthe years 2000 to 2004; the projected number ofhousing starts in 2005; the way in which this compareswith the allocations of approvals granted byhis Department to the council for each of thoseyears; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5605/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): Information on the number ofhouses completed and started by Laois CountyCouncil for each of the years 2000 to 2004 underthe local authority housing construction-acquisitionprogramme is set out in the following table.

497 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 498Laois County Council — Housing Completions/StartsYear Completions Starts2000 68 1122001 128 1632002 63 1082003 57 682004 end September 149 68Completions-acquisitions figures for the full year2004 are being finalised and will be published indue course in the annual housing statistics bulletin.The delivery of housing by local authoritiesin the next few years is being developed in thecontext of new five year action plans for socialand affordable housing to ensure a systematic andintegrated approach to the effective use ofresources. I consider that given the nature of continuoushousing need, the preparation of theseaction plans is beneficial to local authorities inidentifying priority needs over the coming yearsand providing a coherent and co-ordinatedresponse across all housing services, includingdelivery of housing by the voluntary and cooperativehousing sector. The majority of theseplans, including Laois County Council’s actionplan, have already been approved by my Departmentand the remainder are likely to be approvedwithin a matter of weeks. Laois CountryCouncil’s nominated housing programme for2005 has recently been received and is underexamination in my Department.Election Management System.364. Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifthe warranties on the electronic voting machineshave now expired; the open market value of themachines; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5634/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): Under the termsof the contract agreed with Nedap in December2003, the warranty period in respect of the votingmachines and related equipment extends to theend of 2007. The unit price of a voting machineis \4,508, plus VAT.Wildlife Protection.365. Mr. Perry asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentwhen action will be taken to help preserve thefreshwater pearl mussel, margaritifera durrovensis,.[5653/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): I refer to thereply to Questions Nos. 165 and 170 of 9February 2005.Flood Relief.366. Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister forthe Environment, Heritage and Local Governmentif there is an emergency fund available inhis Department to compensate householders whoare victims of extreme and devastating flooding;and if he will make a statement on the matter.[5660/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): My Department has no directrole in relation to flood damage and compensationfor householders or others who sufferlosses as a result of flooding. The Office of PublicWorks has primary responsibility for devising andimplementing such flood relief measures. Nofunds are available to the Department specificallyto meet expenditure incurred by local authoritiesdue to flooding. However, local authorities can,where necessary, provide emergency short-termaccommodation for persons made homeless as aresult of disasters such as flooding. My Departmentrecoups 90% of the cost of providing suchaccommodation.Local Authority Housing.367. Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister forthe Environment, Heritage and Local Governmentwhen he will approve the new scheme oflettings for Dublin City Council as submitted in2004; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5691/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): The revised scheme of lettingpriorities submitted by Dublin City Council hasbeen the subject of ongoing discussions betweenmy Department and the city council. A recentmeeting was held at official level to progressmatters further. A decision will be made on thematter as soon as possible.Water and Sewerage Schemes.368. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe position regarding the provision of the Croomand Patrickswell water supply scheme. [5693/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The links fromthe Limerick county trunk water mains to Croomand Patrickswell-Adare have been approved forconstruction in my Department’s water servicesinvestment programme 2004-06. The submissionof Limerick County Council’s detailed design andcontract documents for the Croom link for myDepartment’s approval is awaited. The council’scontract documents and water pricing policyreport for the Patrickswell-Adare element arebeing examined in the Department and are beingdealt with as quickly as possible.369. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Ministerfor the Environment, Heritage and LocalGovernment the reason for the delay in approvingthe preliminary report for the Kenmare water

499 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 500[Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin.]supply improvement scheme; when he proposesto issue approval; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5705/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The Kenmarewater supply scheme has been included in myDepartment’s water services investment programme2004-2006 as a scheme to commence constructionthis year. Kerry County Council’s preliminaryreport for the scheme is underexamination in my Department and is being dealtwith as quickly as possible.370. Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Ministerfor the Environment, Heritage and LocalGovernment the status of the application byKerry County Council for funding towards theupgrading of the sewerage scheme in Kenmare,County Kerry; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5706/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The Kenmaresewerage scheme upgrade has been included inmy Department’s water services investment programmefor 2004 to 2006 as a scheme to enterplanning at an estimated cost of \1.3 million. MyDepartment is awaiting the submission of adesign brief for the scheme by Kerry CountyCouncil.Departmental Communications.371. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifhis Department had identified difficulties inexternal communications prior to the Governmentassuming office in 2002. [5718/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): My Departmenthas on a number of occasions prior to 2002 identifiedspecific communication requirements whichcould not be met by the resources available inthe Department. On some of those occasions, theshortfall was met by contracting specialistcommunications expertise.In 2000, my Department awarded a contract forassistance in devising and implementing thenational spatial strategy, NSS, communicationscampaign. Included in that campaign were arange of marketing and advertising initiatives, topromote awareness and interest in the NSS, todisseminate information, identify and engage thetarget audience for the consultation process andsupport that process through organising consultationforums at regional level at various stagesduring the strategy’s preparation.In 1998, my Department awarded a contract forassistance with advertising campaigns in connectionwith the draft register of electors and the referendumson the Good Friday Agreement andthe Treaty of Amsterdam. For a number of yearsprior to 2002, specialist assistance was contractedfor anti-litter awareness campaigns. A non-establishedtemporary civil servant acted as communicationsco-ordinator to my Department for theperiod from October 1999 to June 2002.Planning Issues.372. Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifhe is aware that a decision was made by BrayTown Council in December 2004 when draftingits town development plan for 2005 to 2011 toadopt a town centre zoning on the most sensitivepart of the flood plain on golf club lands immediatelyadjacent to the Dargle River in Bray, that amajority of elected members on Bray TownCouncil made this zoning decision without havinghad access to the findings of a flood risk studybeing carried out by University College Dublinon behalf of the prospective developers of thesegolf club lands and that this zoning decision doesnot comply with the guidelines issued by theOffice of Public Works for development that isappropriate on flood plains; and if he will makea statement on the matter. [5747/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The proposedamendments to the draft Bray development planhave been on public display with a view to facilitatingsubmissions from interested persons. It isa matter for the elected members of Bray TownCouncil to adopt the final plan in accordance withthe provisions of the Planning and DevelopmentAct 2000.The question of zoning land for different usesis a matter for each planning authority to addressin the context of its development plan. Under thePlanning and Development Act 2000, planningauthorities may include in their developmentplans objectives regulating, restricting or controllingdevelopment in areas at risk of flooding.Development plan objectives may also includepolicies indicating that developers will berequired to support the funding of flood defencesneeded for particular developments, either partiallyor fully, depending on the circumstancesinvolved.The Office of Public Works, as a prescribedconsultee on all draft development plans underthe Planning and Development Act 2000, has theopportunity as appropriate to ensure that itsviews are considered in the making of developmentplans with particular reference to its statutoryresponsibilities in respect of river drainage,flood relief and localised flooding problems. Irefer also to the reply to Question No. 72 of 9February 2005.Housing Grants.373. Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister forthe Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to information which has been submittedto his Department recently, the positionregarding a social housing scheme application

501 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 502(details supplied) under the voluntary housingcapital assistance and communal facilities grantscheme; and if he will make a statement on thematter. [5748/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): I refer to my reply to QuestionNo. 521 of 8 February 2005. The additional informationsought from Donegal County Council hasrecently been received and the application isbeing further considered by my Department. Thecouncil will be advised of the outcome as soonas possible.Planning Issues.374. Mr. Carey asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifregulations exist to govern the change of use ofretail shop units to chip shops and food takeawayoutlets in general; if regulations exist to governthe change of use of retail shop units to offlicenceshops for the sale of alcohol; if he hasgiven consideration to updating or consolidatingsuch regulations; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5757/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The Planningand Development Regulations 2001 provide thatdevelopment which consists of a change of usewithin any one of the certain specified classes ofuse is exempt from the requirement to obtainplanning permission, subject to certain conditions.One of these classes of use is as a shop.The definition of “shop” in the regulationsspecifically excludes use for the sale of hot foodfor consumption off the premises except wherethe sale of such food is subsidiary to the mainretail use.I am considering whether it may be desirableto amend the regulations so that a change of usefrom a shop to an off-licence would require planningpermission. Any such change would requirepositive resolution by both Houses of theOireachtas.Housing Policy.375. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifhis Department has set a housing stock per populationtarget; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5762/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): The Irish housing stock wasapproximately 390 per 1,000 persons at the endof 2003. While we are moving closer to the EU15 average of 440, such comparisons must takeaccount of differences resulting from demographic,economic and cultural factors. TheGovernment has not, therefore, set a housing targetper head of population. The focus of policy ison seeking to ensure that supply meets prospectiveneeds.We are building houses at a rate of over 19units per 1,000 persons. This is the highest rate ofhouse building in the European Union. Morethan 30% of the entire Irish housing stock hasbeen built over the past seven years. The regionalplanning guidelines, which have been adopted ineach region, incorporate estimates of the populationand household distribution in the region inthe period up to 2020. These guidelines providea strategic, long-term context for local authoritydevelopment plans, particularly in terms of providingthrough the development plan processadequate zoned lands to meet future demands forresidential development.Election Management System.376. Mr. Neville asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe reason for the difference in the reply to QuestionNo. 534 of 30 November 2004 indicating thatthe monthly storage cost of electronic votingequipment amounts to \55,000, and the presentationon the subject to the Committee of PublicAccounts. [5768/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): Informationsupplied to my Department by returning officers,which was made available to the Committee ofPublic Accounts at its meeting on 3 February2005, indicates that the total annual storage costsfor the electronic voting system is \658,229, whichis equivalent to less than \55,000 per month.Retail Sector Developments.377. Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmenthis views on the concerns of a person (detailssupplied) in County Cork regarding possiblechanges in the retail planning guidelines; and if hewill make a statement on the matter. [5872/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): I refer to myreply to Questions Nos. 524 and 528 of 8February 2005.Property Rights.378. Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentwhen the report on property rights by the All-Party Committee on the Constitution will beimplemented; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5876/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The Governmentis giving careful consideration to this report,as well as report No. 112 of the National Economicand Social Council, Housing in Ireland: Performanceand Policy, and a report by GoodbodyEconomic Consultants, within the context of itscontinuing commitment to meeting the broad

503 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 504[Mr. Roche.]range of housing needs. I intend bringing proposalsto Government in response to thesereports as soon as possible.Alternative Energy Projects.379. Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe steps he is taking to ensure that geothermalheating is included in all public buildings; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter.[5878/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): While thenational climate change strategy identifies themaximisation of renewable energy capacity as anessential step towards meeting our greenhousegas emissions limitation target under the KyotoProtocol, it would not be appropriate for buildingregulations to prescribe specific systems forpublic buildings or to promote one type of renewableenergy over others.I understand Sustainable Energy Ireland Limited,SEI, is supporting a number of programmesin geothermal heating. SEI comes under the remitof the Minister for Communications, Marine andNatural Resources.NameDog Breeding Establishments.380. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe details of the list of members of the workinggroup to review the management of dog breedingestablishments; the criteria for membership; thename of the chairperson; the terms of referenceof the committee; how often it meets; when itsfinal report is expected; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5941/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): The members ofthe working group to review the management ofdog breeding establishments, and the bodies whonominated them, are set out in the table below.The group comprises representatives of a crosssection of relevant bodies which have an interestor expertise in the matter. The terms of referenceof the group are “to examine the current positionregarding management of kennels and to makerecommendations for such improvements, includingbetter regulation, as it considers necessary inthis area”.Its work programme is a matter for the groupitself. As part of its examination of the issues, Iunderstood the group undertook public consultationand has held three meetings to date. Iexpect to receive a report by the end of March.OrganisationMr. Finbarr Heslin ChairmanMr. Frank McRorySuperintenent Aidan ReidMr. Bobby BehanMr. Pat BranganMr. Denis HistonMr. Garret ShineMr. Fred CuthbertMr. Paul FloodMr. Conor DowlingMr. Kevin RingMr. Sean O LaoideMr. Frank Gallagher Working Group SecretaryVeterinary Surgeon, Beaufield Veterinary Centre, Celbridge, Co. KildareVeterinary Council of IrelandAn Garda SíochánaNational German Shepherd Working Dog AssociationDepartment of Agriculture and FoodIrish Greyhound BoardCounty and City Managers’ AssociationThe Irish Kennel Club,The Dog Breeders Association of IrelandISPCADepartment of the Environment, Heritage and Local GovernmentVeterinary Ireland,Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local GovernmentTraveller Accommodation.381. Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifhe allocated funding to local authorities to fundTraveller accommodation; if he must authoriseany compulsory purchase orders that might berequired to meet accommodation needs; if fundingis provided for specific requests; and if he willmake a statement on the matter. [5942/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): Under the Housing (TravellerAccommodation) Act 1998, all relevant localauthorities adopted Traveller accommodationprogrammes. The first programmes, covering theperiod 2000 to 2004, have just been completed. Asecond round of programmes, covering the period2005 to 2008, is in the process of being adopted.The provision, under these programmes of newTraveller-specific accommodation and the refurbishmentof existing Traveller-specific accommodationwhich includes halting sites and grouphouses is funded under my Department’s Travelleraccommodation capital programme. In theperiod 2000 to 2004, local authorities received anallocation of \125.69 million, of which \40 millionwas allocated in 2004. This does not include thecost of standard local authority accommodationprovided for Travellers which is funded under myDepartment’s local authority housing programme,or housing provided by voluntary housingbodies allocated to Travellers and funded undermy Department’s voluntary housing schemes.

505 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 506As section 214 of the Planning and DevelopmentAct 2000 transferred functions of the Ministerfor the Environment, Heritage and LocalGovernment in regard to the determination ofcompulsory purchase orders to An Bord Pleanálawith effect from 1 January 2001, I have no functionin authorising such orders.Local authorities develop particular Travellerspecificaccommodation schemes in accordancewith their Traveller accommodation programmes.Prior to commencing such schemes, local authoritiesmust obtain approval from my Department,which allocates funding from within theoverall Traveller-specific allocation to suchschemes. My Department will continue to providethe necessary funding to meet the cost tolocal authorities of the provision of Travellerspecificaccommodation.Details of the amount available to authoritiesfor the provision and refurbishment of Travellerspecificaccommodation will be made available inthe revised Estimates for public service for 2005.Housing Policy.382. Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government ifhis Department has set a social rent housing stockper population target; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5971/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): The Government’s targets inregard to social housing are not set on the basisof a social housing stock per population. Quantifyingtargets in this manner would not be appropriategiven the influence of demographic andeconomic factors on the level of need at any pointin time. The focus of the Government’s housingprogrammes is on responding to identified needs.A broad range of targeted initiatives have beenintroduced in recent years to address the needsof low income groups and those with social andspecial housing needs.The Government has responded to increasedlevels of social housing need by expanding socialand affordable housing output significantly inrecent years and is committed to maintainingstrong programmes into the future. Additionalresources are being made available this year toincrease the output of social housing further. Asa result, we expect that approximately 5,500 newhouses will be started under the main local authorityprogramme and that the output of the voluntaryand co-operative housing sector will alsoincrease.In total, my Department will spend a record\1.3 billion in Exchequer funding on supports forsocial and affordable housing programmes in2005. This will enable the needs of more than13,000 households to be met this year throughexisting schemes and the new rent accommodationscheme will address the long-term housingneeds of some 5,000 recipients of rentsupplement.The decision to introduce five-year multiannualcapital investment programmes providesan important opportunity to ensure a structuredbasis for the planning and delivery of all socialand affordable housing programmes. The statutoryassessment of social housing which must beundertaken at the end of March this year will providean up-to-date assessment of social housingneeds.To maximise the benefits of this multi-annualapproach, five-year action plans for social andaffordable housing have been developed by localauthorities. The main objective in developingthese action plans is the need to ensure that theinvestment available for these programmesachieves the desired effect in the long term bytackling real need and breaking cycles of disadvantageand dependency having regard to thefunding available under the five-year multiannualcapital envelopes.The expanded social and affordable housingprovision over recent years has had a beneficialimpact on the social rented housing stock.Returns from local authorities indicate that thenumber of occupied local authority dwellings hasincreased in recent years. The number of occupiedlocal authority dwellings at the end of 2003was in the order of 107,000, compared with 99,200at the end of 1998.Fire Stations.383. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forthe Environment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe status of an application to provide a newfire station at Freshford, County Kilkenny; theamount of funding already allocated to the project;the reason for the delay in the constructionof the station; the contract price of the project;the timeframe involved; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5976/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. B. O’Keeffe): In July 2004, my Departmentconveyed approval to Kilkenny County Councilto invite tenders for the construction of a new firestation at Freshford at an estimated all-in cost of\590,000. The council’s tender proposals areawaited in the Department.384. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forthe Environment, Heritage and Local Governmentwhen a new fire station will be provided atCastlecomer, County Kilkenny; if the project hasbeen approved and costed; if funding will bemade available in 2005; and if he will make astatement on the matter. [5977/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. B. O’Keeffe): Kilkenny County Council’sproposal for a new fire station at Castlecomer isbeing considered in my Department in the contextof the fire services capital programme having

507 Questions— 22 February 2005. Written Answers 508[Mr. B. O’Keeffe.]regard to the overall availability of resources andpriorities under the programme.Local Authority Housing.385. Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister forthe Environment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe reason his Department, throughKilkenny County Council, reduced the grant to aproject (details supplied) in Kilkenny by \30,000;the criteria used; and if he will make a statementon the matter. [5978/05]Minister of State at the Department of theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Government(Mr. N. Ahern): My Department has not reducedthe grant to the project referred to in the question.While the level of accommodation-relatedfunding applicable to this type of project is, in thefirst instance, a matter for decision by the localauthority in whose area the project is situated, myDepartment recoups to the authority 90% of suchfunding. In this context, Kilkenny CountyCouncil has been requested to submit detailedinformation to support its proposal to increasethe funding for the project in question. On receiptof this information, the matter will be consideredfurther.Architectural Heritage.386. Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmenthis views on the funding for architectural protectiongrants; and if he will make a statement onthe matter. [5998/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): I refer to thereply to Questions Nos. 66 and 134 of 9 February2005, which set out the various grant schemes andother measures that are in place to support theprotection of architectural heritage. I am satisfiedthese arrangements afford appropriate supportfor the safeguarding of our architectural heritage.Planning Issues.387. Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for theEnvironment, Heritage and Local Governmentthe status of the \20 charge payable to countycouncils when making an objection to a planningapplication; if this charge has been reviewed bythe European courts; and if it has been found tobe illegal. [6031/05]Minister for the Environment, Heritage andLocal Government (Mr. Roche): On 23 January2003, the European Commission issued Irelandwith a reasoned opinion to the effect that the \20fee for the making of a submission on a planningapplication which requires an environmentalimpact assessment is contrary to the public participationprovisions of Directive 85/337/EEC onenvironmental impact assessment. A reply issuedto the European Commission on 16 May 2003responding to each of the points raised in the reasonedopinion and setting out our contention thatthe imposition of a \20 participation fee is not inconflict with the provisions of the directive.On 22 July 2003, the European Commissionissued a press release in which it stated its intentionto refer the case to the European Court ofJustice. No official communication has beenreceived from the Commission to date. MyDepartment has no plans to amend the relevantregulations which reflect an approach endorsedby the Oireachtas in the context of the Planningand Development Act 2000.