Patrick Costello
Question:94. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs for an update in relation to the ‘Ireland House’ model; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38307/24]
View answerDiplomatic Representation
Questions (94)
Written answers
The Ireland House model involves the co-location of diplomatic missions and State Agencies in one premises in key markets overseas, working together to maximise the collective impact of Team Ireland.
There are currently twenty Ireland Houses worldwide: Abu Dhabi, Atlanta, Austin, Beijing, Budapest, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mumbai, New York, Prague, Riyadh, San Francisco, São Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Stockholm, Sydney, Tokyo and Warsaw. These include integrated diplomatic and State Agency operations in one premises, as well as other arrangements such as separate offices within the same building or desks for locally engaged State Agency staff within a diplomatic mission.
The Global Ireland Strategy outlines the Government’s commitment to developing and expanding the Ireland House model, including a uniform and coherent brand for Ireland abroad, building on the Team Ireland concept of shared services and facilities, and collaborative working practices.
The Ireland House model contributes to a joined-up Team Ireland approach to Ireland’s international engagement and to raising our profile by showcasing our cultural heritage, creativity and innovation through excellence in design.
Four new Ireland Houses were recently completed: in Shanghai in December 2023; Singapore and Stockholm in June 2024, and New York earlier this month. Two new Ireland House projects in Tokyo and Chicago are under construction, with expected completion in early 2025. Planning is also underway in relation to four potential new Ireland Houses in London, Toronto, Milan and Madrid, with expected delivery before the end of 2026.
This will bring the total number of Ireland Houses to twenty-four by the end of 2026.
Irish Aid
Questions (95)
Patrick Costello
Question:95. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff, and their grade currently, employed within Irish Aid, highlighting if they are employed on a part- or full-time basis, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38308/24]
View answerWritten answers
As of 31 August 2024, 271 civil servants are employed by the Department of Foreign Affairs in support of the Government of Ireland's development cooperation programme, Irish Aid. 12 officers are currently availing of flexible working options, resulting in a Full Time Equivalent staffing total of 268. Details are provided in the table below.
|
Grade |
Vote 27 |
|
Assistant Secretary and higher |
2 |
|
Principal Officer and equivalent |
22 |
|
Assistant Principal Officer and equivalent |
93 |
|
Higher Executive Officer and equivalent |
19.7 |
|
Administrative Officer and equivalent |
51 |
|
Executive Officer |
33 |
|
Clerical Officer |
39.59 |
|
Tempory Clerical Officer |
2 |
|
Services Officer/Cleaner |
3 |
|
Political Appointee |
3 |
|
Total |
268.29 |
Departmental Staff
Questions (96)
Patrick Costello
Question:96. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff, and their grade currently, employed within his Department, highlighting if they are employed on a part- or full-time basis, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38309/24]
View answerWritten answers
As of 31 August 2024, 2,164 civil servants are employed by the Department of Foreign Affairs. 101 officers are currently availing of flexible working options, resulting in a Full Time Equivalent staffing total of 2,129. Details are provided in the table below.
|
Grade |
Total |
|
Assistant Secretary and higher |
32 |
|
Principal Officer and equivalent |
130.2 |
|
Assistant Principal Officer and equivalent |
382.5 |
|
Higher Executive Officer and equivalent |
142.09 |
|
Administrative Officer and equivalent |
227 |
|
Executive Officer |
281.05 |
|
Clerical Officer |
673.15 |
|
Tempory Clerical Officer |
208 |
|
Services Officer/Cleaner |
44 |
|
Political Appointee (inclusive of drivers) |
9 |
|
Total |
2128.99 |
Departmental Staff
Questions (97)
Patrick Costello
Question:97. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of vacancies, including the grade, within his Department, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38310/24]
View answerWritten answers
Over the past five years, the Department of Foreign Affairs has grown as Ireland’s diplomatic footprint has expanded and as our Passport Service continues to successfully meet high demand for passports with turnaround times at or well-ahead of target.
The Department now employs 2,164 civil servants, which is 522 more than at the end of 2019.
In that context, we currently have a small number of vacancies to be filled from panels established in recent or planned competitions.
The table below provides details of the civil service vacancies in the Department of Foreign Affairs as of 23 September 2024.
|
Grades |
Number of Vacancies as of 23 September 2024 |
|
Counsellor/Principal Officer |
1 |
|
First Secretary/Assistant Principal Officer/Development Specialist |
15 |
|
Third Secretary/Administrative Officer/Development Specialist Officer |
9 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
6 |
|
Executive Officer |
5 |
|
Clerical Officer |
19 |
Departmental Staff
Questions (98)
Patrick Costello
Question:98. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff, and their grade currently, within his Department that are not currently working within his Department due to being seconded to a different Department, EU institution or organisation, or if they are on parental/maternity leave, career break or long-term sick leave, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38311/24]
View answerWritten answers
The below tables include the numbers of staff not current working within the Department of Foreign Affairs due to secondment, maternity leave, career break, long-term sick leave and parental leave as of 23 September 2024. There are currently no officers on paternity leave as of 23 September 2024.
Officers currently on a secondment to another Department, EU Institution or external organisation (as of 23 September 2024)
|
Grade |
Number of officers |
|
Principal Officer & Equivalent |
5 |
|
Assistant Principal Officer & Equivalent |
17 |
|
Higher Executive Officer & Equivalent |
2 |
|
Administrative Officer & Equivalent |
3 |
|
Clerical Officer |
1 |
|
Total: |
28 |
Officers currently on a career break (as of 23 September 2024)
|
Grade |
Number of officers |
|
Principal Officer & Equivalent |
1 |
|
Assistant Principal Officer & Equivalent |
15 |
|
Administrative Officer & Equivalent |
3 |
|
Executive Officer |
6 |
|
Clerical Officer |
23 |
|
Total: |
48 |
Officers currently on long term sick leave (as of 23 September 2024)
|
Grade |
Number of officers |
|
Assistant Principal Officer & Equivalent |
2 |
|
Higher Executive Officer & Equivalent |
1 |
|
Administrative Officer & Equivalent |
1 |
|
Executive Officer |
5 |
|
Clerical Officer |
16 |
|
Total: |
25 |
Officers currently on maternity leave (as of 23 September 2024)
|
Grade |
Number of officers |
|
Assistant Principal Officer & Equivalent |
11 |
|
Administrative Officer & Equivalent |
2 |
|
Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Clerical Officer |
6 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
1 |
|
Total: |
21 |
Officers currently on parents leave (as of 23 September 2024)
|
Grade |
Number of officers |
|
Assistant Principal Officer & Equivalent |
1 |
|
Higher Executive Officer & Equivalent |
1 |
|
Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Clerical Officer |
2 |
|
Total: |
5 |
The entitlement for Parental Leave, which can be availed of in hours, days or in weekly or monthly blocks, is 130 days (26 weeks). As it is availed of on an on-going basis it is difficult to determine the number of officers availing of parental on a particular date. The table below provides a breakdown by grade of officers who have availed of parental leave this year as of the end of August 2024.
Officers who have availed of parental leave from January 2024 to August 2024
|
Grade |
Number of officers |
|
Principal Officer & Equivalent |
7 |
|
Assistant Principal Officer & Equivalent |
22 |
|
Higher Executive Officer & Equivalent |
7 |
|
Administrative Officer & Equivalent |
4 |
|
Executive Officer |
16 |
|
Clerical Officer (including TCO) |
37 |
|
Services Officer |
1 |
|
Total: |
94 |
Diplomatic Representation
Questions (99)
Patrick Costello
Question:99. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs for a breakdown of the Irish embassies which are considered ‘hardship postings’, highlighting either the points allocation or the level of assigned hardship, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38312/24]
View answerWritten answers
A breakdown of current hardship categorisation follows.
Postings at a number of DFA missions are categorised as hardship postings. These missions are in locations where there are assessed to be particularly difficult conditions across a range of factors including climate, health and social services, personal security and political tension.
Hardship ratings are calculated on a points-based system. The five categories of hardship run from A (greatest hardship) to E (minor hardship). These ratings are based on independently sourced data and are reviewed annually. There is no guarantee that a post will retain its hardship designation in any category for the duration of an officer’s posting.
2024 - Hardship Missions Overview
CATEGORY E
Sofia
Tel Aviv
Santiago
Pretoria
Abu Dhabi
Belgrade
Bangkok
Buenos Aires
Sarajevo
Kuala Lumpur
Shanghai
Ankara
CATEGORY D
Rabat
Brasilia
Beijing
Amman
Sao Paulo
Bogotá
Mexico City
Chisinau
Hanoi
Nairobi
CATEGORY C
Manila
Moscow
Riyadh
Kampala
Lilongwe
Cairo
Dar es Salaam
New Delhi
Lusaka
Mumbai
Dakar
Jakarta
CATEGORY B
Kyiv
Ramallah
Addis Ababa
Maputo
Tehran
CATEGORY A
Abuja
Freetown
Monrovia
Islamabad
Departmental Staff
Questions (100)
Patrick Costello
Question:100. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the details of the system of tax-free allowances paid to civil servants assigned to Irish missions abroad; the way in which they are calculated; the annual cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38313/24]
View answerWritten answers
All civil servants posted to our missions abroad are paid the standard salary for their grade as determined by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform and are subject to the normal taxation and social security obligations that apply to civil servants.
In common with other diplomatic services, this Department further supports officers who are assigned abroad to serve the State in an official capacity through a system of Foreign Service Allowances (FSA). This is to assist in contributing to defraying the additional costs officers and their families incur in moving and living abroad. These allowances are based on independently sourced data and are reviewed annually. The various components of the system can increase, decrease or be removed altogether during an officer’s posting.
The components of the allowance system are:
Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), which is designed to estimate and defray costs associated with a higher cost of living at the post abroad. The Department uses the services of an independent firm to provide cost of living indices for the locations where we have missions. COLA only becomes payable at mission locations with a higher cost of living index than Dublin.
Local Post Allowance (LPA), which assists mainly with the additional indirect costs arising from the representational role of officers. This allowance is payable at all locations abroad. LPA is updated in line with inflation annually, and when a cost of living index applies to the location. Officers serving in designated “hardship” posts may also be currently entitled to a hardship allowance as part of their LPA.
Children’s Foreign Allowance (CFA), which contributes towards the additional costs incurred with regard to qualifying children at post overseas.
The Finance Act 2005 provides for FSA to be disregarded as income for the purposes of the Income Tax Acts.
The total expenditure on FSA to end August 2024 was €12,173,000.
Foreign Policy
Questions (101)
Carol Nolan
Question:101. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to provide an update on the engagement he and his Department have had with the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan from 2022 to date; if the Taliban government in Afghanistan has withdrawn staff who engage with Ireland through its non-resident embassy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38319/24]
View answerWritten answers
I have consistently stated that Ireland does not recognise the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan. This remains our strong position, especially as women, girls and vulnerable groups continue to face abhorrent human rights abuses by the Taliban. Ireland remains fully aligned with the EU Council Conclusions of March 2023 which reaffirmed commitment to peace and stability in Afghanistan, supporting its people as well as the key role of the United Nations in Afghanistan.
Since 2013, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has accredited an Ambassador to Ireland on a non-resident basis, from London. The current Ambassador-designate, Dr. Zalmai Rassoul, was granted agrément in March 2021 but did not have an opportunity to present his credentials in Ireland before the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021. Following those events, no invitation was extended to Dr. Rassoul to present credentials and he has therefore not taken up his functions. My Department has had very limited written engagement with representatives of the Embassy of Afghanistan in London, appointed by the previous Afghan government, in the intervening period since the Taliban takeover in August 2021.
On 12th September 2024, Ireland received formal communication from the Ambassador-designate regarding the planned closure of the Afghan Embassy in London to take effect from 27th September 2024. This communication from the Embassy in London followed an announcement by the Taliban in August that they were closing a number of Afghan Missions associated with the former Republic of Afghanistan, including the Afghan Embassy in London, and will no longer honour documentation issued by officials in these Missions including deeds, passports and visa stickers. The decision to close the Afghan Embassy was taken following consultation on their part with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in London. There has been no communication of any kind from the Taliban received by my Department in relation to this issue.
Discussions are underway with our EU Partners on the full implications of the Taliban announcement regarding Embassy closures and its potential impact on the rights of Afghans living within the EU. In the meantime, Ireland will continue to speak out and condemn the gross, widespread and systematic human rights abuses by the Taliban across Afghanistan, particularly against women, girls and individuals from marginalised communities.
Ministerial Staff
Questions (102)
Catherine Murphy
Question:102. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide a schedule of all special advisors that are and or were attached to him, to include Ministers of State special advisors, by grade, duration of role held and point on the pay scale. [38363/24]
View answerWritten answers
The following Special Advisers have been employed by the Department of Foreign Affairs since December 2022. The appointment of Special Advisers are made in line with the Public Service Management Act, 1997 and are subject to Government approval.
|
- |
Special Adviser |
Minister |
Salary Scale |
|
2022 – present |
Gráinne Weld |
Tánaiste and Minister Micheal Martin |
Principal Officer PPC Standard Scale |
|
2023 – present |
Sharon McGowan |
Tánaiste and Minister Micheál Martin |
Principal Officer PPC Standard Scale |
|
2022 – 2024 |
Laura Mannion |
Minister of State Peter Burke |
Assistant Principal Officer PPC Standard Scale |
|
2023 – present |
Eoin Delaney |
Minister of State Sean Fleming |
Assistant Principal PPC Scale |
|
2024 – present |
Stephen Foley |
Minister of State Jennifer Carroll MacNeill |
Assistant Principal PPC Scale |
Human Rights
Questions (103)
John Paul Phelan
Question:103. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is aware that the Republic of Iran has stepped up the number of executions of those convicted of offences arising from protests against its regime; and to outline what communications the Government has had with the Iranian government in relation to this practice. [38384/24]
View answerWritten answers
I am deeply concerned about the human rights situation in Iran. The widespread, arbitrary, and sometimes politically-motivated use of the death penalty is an issue of particular concern.
Ireland and the EU regularly speak out against the use of the death penalty, including in Iran. Human Rights remain a consistent topic raised in interactions with Iranian officials, including the death penalty. We did this formally most recently in political consultations with the Iranian Foreign Ministry here in Dublin in June. My officials raise human rights generally whenever they meet Iranian counterparts in Dublin and in Tehran. We will continue to do so both directly to Iranian officials, as well as at EU and international level.
The new President of Iran was elected after a campaign marked by his commitment to reform and increased cooperation with the EU and other states. We will continue to encourage the Iranian government in that direction including on urgently needed improvements in human rights.
Foreign Policy
Questions (104)
John Paul Phelan
Question:104. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason he made no public statement in relation to Hezbollah attacks on northern Israel, which have been ongoing since October 2023, but commented immediately on the apparent Israeli retaliation against those attacks on 18 September last. [38385/24]
View answerWritten answers
While attention has been focused on the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, it is important also to stress that there have been ongoing attacks across the Israel-Lebanon border since October 2023, and that approximately 100,000 people in northern Israel and in southern Lebanon have been evacuated from their homes since then.
I have repeatedly drawn attention to this unacceptable situation, including in discussions at EU level and elsewhere. I have been clear that firing is going on in both directions, that populations on both sides of the border are suffering as a result, and called on both sides to halt these actions.
It is clear that Hezbollah has long been a malign actor, in Lebanon and in the region. I am also deeply concerned about the ongoing escalation in Israel's response, about its scale and intensity, and the rising number of casualties as a result of Israel's aerial bombardment. There is a risk of wider conflict, which would be disastrous for all the peoples of the region.
I have called for calm, restraint and de-escalation on all sides, and for all to use their influence to this end. It is past time for the violence to stop.
Departmental Programmes
Questions (105)
Catherine Connolly
Question:105. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the scope and objective of the INFOMAR hydrographic survey work being carried out under Marine Notice No. 6 of 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38232/24]
View answerWritten answers
The Marine Notice No. 6 of 2024 is a notice of operations for Ireland’s national seabed mapping programme, INFOMAR. This is a jointly managed seabed mapping initiative between Geological Survey Ireland and the Marine Institute, funded by my Department. INFOMAR aims to provide comprehensive and accessible marine datasets for Irish waters that underpin and add value to marine research, SOLAS Convention obligations and government policy. These products will foster growth within the national blue economy, maintain the health and integrity of our natural marine environment while facilitating international collaboration and best practice in the sustainable development of Ireland's marine resource.
All information regarding the programme can be found at www.infomar.ie. All data are freely accessible to the public and can be downloaded at the following link: experience.arcgis.com/experience/3f2815ec89e745d2b65630429d06385c .
Energy Conservation
Questions (106)
James O'Connor
Question:106. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to reduce the current waiting times for applications for the SEAI warmer homes scheme (details supplied), particularly in cases where the need is most urgent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38227/24]
View answerWritten answers
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) operates the Warmer Homes Scheme on behalf of my Department. Delivering free energy upgrades to low-income households and reducing the waiting times for the Warmer Homes Scheme is a top priority for my Department and the SEAI. My officials work with the SEAI on an ongoing basis to accelerate the delivery of free energy upgrades provided under this critical scheme.
Last year saw a record spend of €158 million under the scheme with an allocation of almost €210 million in place for 2024. This budget includes funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The funding increases have supported the delivery of a greater volume of deeper and more complex upgrades.
These deeper upgrades mean that more lower income homeowners are benefitting significantly from warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills and reduced emissions. However, deeper retrofits take longer to complete. This improvement in the upgrades provided under the scheme in tandem with increased awareness of the multiple benefits of retrofit are driving significantly increased levels of demand.
Applications to the Scheme are assessed on the basis of when they first apply to SEAI. Homes with the worst Building Energy Ratings (E, F or G) are then prioritised for works. No other prioritisation takes place under the scheme.
The SEAI indicates that the average timeframe for a pre-works BER assessment is 12 months, though this can vary. Significant reductions in the average waiting time for works to be completed have been achieved, reducing from 26 months in 2022 to 17 months for the worst performing homes (rated E, F and G) for homes completed so far in 2024.
This has been achieved in part through the following actions taken to reduce the timeline to completion and increase output under the scheme:
• SEAI has been allocated additional staff for the Warmer Homes Scheme.
• SEAI work to increase contractor output through active contract engagement and management.
• Actions to address ongoing supply chain and inflationary pressures.
• A record budget allocation of €208.8m for 2024.
• ERDF funding of €264 million has been secured for the period 2021 until 2027 to supplement Exchequer funding for the Scheme.
• A new €700 million contractor panel has been put in place for the next 4 years, which has increased contractor capacity to 36.
Applicants can contact SEAI at any time to get further information on the status of their application either by email to warmerhomes@seai.ie or by phone to 1800 250 204. Oireachtas members can make queries on behalf of applicants by contacting the dedicated email address oireachtas@seai.ie.
The Deputy may wish to note that Government also has other schemes and supports in place which may be of assistance where there is an urgent need:
• The Department of Social Protection's Additional Needs Payment is a payment available to people who have essential expenses that they cannot pay from their weekly income. Additional Needs Payments are paid under Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is administered by the Community Welfare Service (CWS) or the Department of Social Protection. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/4eb45-additional-needs-payment/
• The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage's Housing Adaptation Grants can assist older people to have necessary adaptations, repairs or improvement works carried out in order to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. Details are available here: www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability/
Renewable Energy Generation
Questions (107)
John McGuinness
Question:107. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will ensure, by regulation or other means, that there will be unhindered access 24/7 for all health and emergency services and primary care services and for all local residents, to their homes, particularly those with high and complex medical needs, during every phase of the construction of large-scale renewable energy developments. [38279/24]
View answerWritten answers
I have no function in this matter.
Individual planning applications are a matter for the relevant planning authority including review of any traffic management plan submitted as part of an application. Where any condition of a planning permission is breached it is a matter for the relevant planning authority to investigate and commence enforcement proceedings in accordance with the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended.
Access to public roads is a matter for the relevant local authority in its function as a Roads Authority.
Ministerial Staff
Questions (108)
Catherine Murphy
Question:108. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide a schedule of all special advisors that are, or were, attached to him, to include Ministers of State special advisors, by grade, duration of role held and point on the pay scale. [38361/24]
View answerWritten answers
The information requested in the Question is set out in the table below.
|
NAME |
POSITION |
MINISTER |
Period |
Current Salary Scale |
Salary Scale on leaving department |
Expertise |
|
Paul Kenny |
Special Adviser |
Minister Ryan |
July 2020 to July 2024 |
Principal Officer PPC - Point 6 |
Policy Adviser |
|
|
Edel Hackett |
Special Adviser |
Minister Ryan |
March 2022 to date |
Principal Officer PPC - point 3 |
Press Adviser |
|
|
John Mc Donald |
Special Adviser |
Minister Ryan |
June 2020 to date |
Principal Officer PPC - point 5 |
Policy Adviser |
|
|
Margaret Ward |
Special Adviser |
Minister Ryan |
July 2020 to February 2022 |
Principal Officer PPC - Point 2 |
Press Adviser |
Post Office Network
Questions (109)
Brendan Smith
Question:109. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to ensure that detailed consideration is given to the submission of a union (details supplied), taking into consideration the very important and valuable services its members provide throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38406/24]
View answerWritten answers
The Government is committed to a sustainable An Post and post office network, as a key component of the economic and social infrastructure throughout Ireland. In line with this commitment, my Department is providing €10 million funding per annum over a three-year fixed term from 2023 to 2025 to An Post. This funding is being disbursed across the post office network, with An Post being responsible for operational detail.
The provision of funding to Postmasters is contributing towards ensuring both that the public have access to important socially valuable services across the post office network, and, that the network is of sufficient scale right across the country. The funding provides time and space for An Post to accelerate the transformation and commercialisation of the network to ensure a relevant, commercially viable network delivering more services to citizens and small businesses.
Ministerial Staff
Questions (110)
Catherine Murphy
Question:110. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will provide a schedule of all special advisors that are, or were, attached to him, to include Ministers of State special advisors, by grade, duration of role held and point on the pay scale. [38358/24]
View answerWritten answers
Any Special Advisers appointed to me as Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence are employees of the Department of Foreign Affairs and as such, that Department holds their employment details.
The Special Adviser assigned to the Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, is also an employee of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Departmental Contracts
Questions (111)
John Paul Phelan
Question:111. Deputy John Paul Phelan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the total number of applications for tenders for military contracts received in each year from 2010 to date; and the number of such applications which were received from companies or individuals in Israel, per year, in tabular form. [38386/24]
View answerWritten answers
I am advised by my officials that the information requested by the Deputy is not recorded or retained on file in my Department.
As I have previously advised the House, a small number of Israeli companies have won orders for defensive equipment in recent years as a result of tender competitions. In each case, the contract was awarded on the basis that the company concerned had submitted the most economically advantageous tender. The most recent procurement of goods from Israel or Israeli firms was in 2021.
Defence Forces
Questions (112)
Niamh Smyth
Question:112. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the supports, if any, that would be available to a member of the Defence Forces (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38431/24]
View answerWritten answers
I am advised that Defence Forces personnel on overseas tours of duty are debriefed before repatriation and informed of the supports available to them should they experience issues upon return home. Personnel are also examined by a military medical officer prior to repatriation and may raise any concerns at that examination. In the event of further care being required, personnel have access to a range of mental health services which are provided to serving members of the Permanent Defence Force.
Medical mental health services available to personnel include access to clinical psychology and psychiatry services. The psychology service assesses, diagnoses, treats and advises on strategies to prevent mental health disorders, while psychiatry services specialise in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. There are currently two Clinical Psychologists and one dedicated civilian consultant psychiatrist engaged by the Defence Forces.
In addition to these clinical supports, non-medical mental health services are provided by the Defence Forces Personnel Support Service (PSS). The PSS provides a welfare, information, psycho-social support and referral service to serving members of the Defence Forces and their families. This service sustains and enhances the individual well-being of personnel, and promotes a safe and positive work culture, in order to support the effectiveness of the Defence Forces.
The service is delivered through a network of military Barrack Personnel Support Service Officers and civilian Occupational Social Workers. This network of professionals is prepared to provide immediate help to service personnel and their families in a routine environment or at a time of crisis. This assistance can range from the simple provision of information to counselling or, if required, signposting and referral to specialist help and assistance.
I am advised that the PSS briefs Units and personnel going overseas on stress management and awareness. It trains overseas teams in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and conducts Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) when required. Furthermore, the assistance provided may include providing psychosocial support, counselling and information services on a variety of issues, including relationships, general finances, addiction, retirement (including pensions and gratuities), housing, taxation and PRSI, and much more.
In addition, my Department funds a confidential counselling, referral and support service for serving members of the Defence Forces, civilian employees and Civil Defence volunteers. The service provides confidential counselling on a wide range of personal and work related issues, including but not limited to health, relationships, addictions, financial, bereavement, stress, conflict, critical incident and trauma. A Freephone confidential helpline is available on a 24/7 basis 365 days a year. The helpline provides for referral to appointment-based telephone or face-to-face counselling.
Rail Network
Questions (113)
Paul Donnelly
Question:113. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport for an update on Metro North; the timeline for completion, the current status and costing to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38237/24]
View answerWritten answers
MetroLink will be a fully segregated and mostly underground new railway line between Swords and Dublin City Centre, via Dublin Airport. It is a key project under the National Development Plan 2021-30.
A significant milestone in the progression of the MetroLink project was cleared in July 2022, when the Minister for Transport secured approval for the project from the Cabinet under Decision Gate 1 of the Public Spending Code. This decision enabled the project to move to the planning application stage, and in September 2022 Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) submitted a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanála.
The Railway Order consultation period, following the submission of the Railway Order application in September 2022, provided the opportunity for stakeholders along the MetroLink route to raise concerns with the project. As part of the process, TII reviewed submissions, constructively engaged with stakeholders on their concerns, developed mitigations and prepared responses to the submissions received. This includes submissions made by other State agencies. The statutory planning consultation for the project closed in January 2023.
An Bord Pleanála commenced an Oral Hearing in relation to MetroLink on February 19th, which concluded on March 28th. This process allowed planning authorities, prescribed bodies (Office of Public Works, Dublin Airport etc.), elected representatives and observers such as Trinity College Dublin to share their views on the project.
TII engaged constructively with all parties as part of the Oral Hearing. Where possible, following engagement, TII has provided An Bord Pleanála with conditions agreed by both parties aimed at addressing their specific concerns. Following the Oral Hearing an additional round of public consultation is taking place from 19th August to 8th October.
Another key milestone was reached in June this year when Sean Sweeney was announced as the Project Director for MetroLink. Mr Sweeney has held leadership roles on major infrastructure projects in Australia, New Zealand and the US.
Dependent on the outcome of the planning process, construction of MetroLink is earmarked to commence over the coming years with a view to operation by the mid-2030s.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including, in conjunction with with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), MetroLink.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Bus Services
Questions (114)
Paul Donnelly
Question:114. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport for an update on a direct bus route connecting the greater Dublin 15 area with the airport. [38238/24]
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The NTA has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including BusConnects.
BusConnects Dublin provides for a transformative programme of investments in the city’s bus system including the purchase of new fleet, a network redesign and the provision of 16 Core Bus Corridors (CBCs) to provide bus priority infrastructure.
The 16 CBCs in the BusConnects Dublin programme have been bundled into 12 schemes to assist in the planning application process. Following approval at Approval Gate 1 of the Public Spending Code for the BusConnects Dublin in 2021, the NTA submitted planning applications to An Bord Pleanála in respect of all 12 of the Core Bus Corridor schemes. An Bord Pleanála recently granted planning permission for eight of the CBC’s namely, the Clongriffin, Liffey Valley, Ballymun/Finglas, Belfield/Blackrock, Blanchardstown, Swords, Ringsend and Lucan to City Centre CBCs. Legal proceedings are ongoing in relation to four of these schemes, including the Blanchardstown to city centre CBC, which serves the Dublin 15 area, and the Swords CBC which serves the airport. The NTA are considering how best to respond to these legal challenges.
In the short term, I am pleased to say the NTA are currently in the process of introducing significant improvements to the public transport offering at Dublin Airport as part of the continued roll-out of the BusConnects network redesign. These improvements will see new and enhanced services introduced on a phased basis over this year and into next year, improving connections between the airport and all parts of Dublin – North, South, West and the city centre. This will build on the many buses which depart the airport daily serving passengers in Dublin and across the country.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Road Projects
Questions (115)
Michael Healy-Rae
Question:115. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide funding to resurface a road in County Kerry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38239/24]
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As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Bus Services
Questions (116)
Steven Matthews
Question:116. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to reliability concerns on a bus route (details supplied); the actions he will take to engage with the operator on these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38260/24]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The query raised by the Deputy is an operational matter for Bus Éireann. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the company for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.
Taxi Regulations
Questions (117)
Denise Mitchell
Question:117. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if any consideration is being given to changing the ten-year rule for taxi drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38270/24]
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The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry, including vehicle age limits for SPSVs, is a matter for the independent transport regulator, the National Transport Authority (NTA), under the provisions of the Consolidated Taxi Regulation Act 2013 and 2016. I have no role in the day-to-day operations of the SPSV industry.
Regulations made by the NTA in 2010 first established a maximum permissible age of 10 years for new standard taxis and hackneys. The ten-year rule was adopted in recognition of the need to strike a balance between achieving standards that offer the customer confidence, comfort, and safety, and allowing industry members to operate successfully.
The Taxi Regulation Acts 2013 and 2016 require the NTA to seek to promote the provision and maintenance of quality services by small public service vehicles and their drivers. Taxi Regulation (Small Public Service Vehicle) Regulations 2015 continued the age limit for taxis and hackneys as, in general, less than 10 years old and always of a condition and quality suitable to provide SPSV services.
Wheelchair accessible taxis and wheelchair accessible hackneys can operate up to 15-years old. No maximum age is set for limousines due to the vintage nature of many of these vehicles, and the reduced mileage they do due to their ceremonial and prestigious roles.
The NTA's extension of age limits during Covid-19 was an emergency measure of a temporary nature, taken in recognition of the particular challenges posed by the pandemic and was specifically aimed at ensuring that no operator would be required to change their vehicle while passenger demand remained low, and there was a lack suitable vehicles available for purchase. The 2022 Regulations amend Regulation 31 (Maximum Permissible Age Requirements) of the Taxi Regulation (Small Public Service Vehicle) Regulations 2015. This amendment was made as an exceptional provision and contingency measure, as a result of vehicle supply issues. The Regulations also provide for a graduated return to the ten-year age limit, with vehicles whose 10-year limit was originally in 2020 or 2021 now extended to 2025; those whose original limit is in 2022 or 2023 now extended to 2026, and those whose original limit will be reached in 2024, extended to 2027.
The impact of the 2022 Regulations has been under continuous review and the NTA does not anticipate introducing any further maximum permissible age extensions, as the instigating factors no longer exist.
Grants which are administered by the NTA, are available for drivers looking to purchase new vehicles. The eSPSV Grant Scheme is available to persons (individuals or companies) applying for new SPSV licences or existing SPSV licence holders who wish to upgrade their current vehicle with a replacement electric vehicle. Applicants can avail of up to €25,000 in grant funding under this Scheme. The WAV Grant is available to provide financial support towards the acquisition or conversion of suitable vehicles to operate as WAVs in the SPSV fleet. Applicants can avail of up to €17,500 in grant funding under this Scheme.
Planning Issues
Questions (118)
Mattie McGrath
Question:118. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if local authorities have the power to grant planning permission for the development of new entrances (domestic/residential/agricultural) onto national primary and secondary roads in Ireland, or if this authority lies solely with Transport Infrastructure Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38282/24]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals.
The relevant planning guidelines are included in the Spatial Planning and National Road Guidelines which were published by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. TII implements these Guidelines in relation to national roads. Local authorities also consider these when drafting County Development Plans.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply updating you as to the application of these guidelines on national roads. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51.