Written Answers Nos. 60-89
60. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the next steps for the highly-trained soldiers on peacekeeping duties in Lebanon, given the deteriorating situation between Israel and that country and that more widely in the region, the evidence shows the IDF behaving in ways not in accordance with accepted international rules of military engagement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38654/24]
View answerAt the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that the safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces’ personnel is of paramount concern to the Government, and I wish to agree with her statement on the highly trained nature of our soldiers on peacekeeping duties in the region. Our personnel are indeed highly trained, professional, and have undergone rigorous preparation to effectively handle the challenges that come with peacekeeping in this volatile region.
Over the last week, there has been a significant escalation of violence across Lebanon, in terms of Israeli air strikes and Hezbollah rocket fire however. The Defence Forces has advised that this escalation has led to an increased level of kinetic activity in the UNIFIL Area of Operations including in the IRISHPOLBATT area of operations. This has led to the Irish personnel taking shelter in their bunker positions (termed a ‘GROUNDHOG’) on a number of occasions for varying periods of duration.
I wish to reassure the Deputy that Defence Forces HQ remains in ongoing contact with Irish personnel in the three UN missions (UNIFIL, UNTSO and UNDOF) in the region throughout the current unrest, and advise that all Irish personnel are all accounted for and are safe and well. The safety of troops remains paramount in terms of every activity undertaken, and personnel continue to take every precaution in terms of force protection.
I also wish to reassure the Deputy that ongoing threat assessments are carried out in the mission area and personal equipment and force assets are continually reviewed so that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfil their role. Unfortunately, no mission is without danger, but based on the military advice I have received, I am satisfied that all appropriate security measures are in place to provide for the safety of all Defence Forces personnel serving overseas. I also remain in regular contact with the UN and with the Chief of Staff with regard to the ongoing situation. The Department of Defence is also regularly kept appraised of all developments in those areas where Defence Forces personnel are deployed.
Finally, and despite the extremely difficult situation, UNIFIL remains committed to its mission and continues to adapt in order to deliver on the mission’s mandate in this very hostile situation. Likewise, Irish personnel remain focussed on carrying out their mission. While Ireland remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace and stability in Lebanon, our Defence Forces will however remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding all troops, ensuring they are well-protected and able to perform their duties effectively.
61. Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he has carried out a SWOT analysis or any other detailed analysis on Ireland joining the European Sky Shield Initiative; if he has any concerns that Northern Ireland could be under this protective umbrella, leaving the State more vulnerable and exposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38695/24]
View answerThe European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), spearheaded by Germany, was launched in 2022, with the self-declared aim of creating a European air and missile defence system through the joint acquisition of air defence equipment and missiles by European nations in order to strengthen NATO’s integrated air and missile defence.
While my Department is aware of the ESSI, Ireland has not received a direct invitation to join the initiative. As the deputy will be aware, decision-making power with regard to Defence remains a national competence under the European Treaties, and it remains a matter for Ireland, and every other individual EU Member State to decide its own way forward in this regard both with regard to bilateral or multilateral or EU initiatives. If such an invitation is received it will be examined in full cognizance of Ireland's national policy in this area.
I wish to assure the Deputy, however, that Department officials are considering ESSI and other European developments regarding Air and Missile Defence while focusing on developing Ireland’s own capabilities in this area. Work on the development of military radar capabilities is underway by my Department. This is an ambitious and complex programme of three related air defence and radar projects (collectively termed the Military Radar – Recognised Air Picture Programme) which will contribute to the establishment of a Recognised Air Picture as follows:
• Land based Long Range Primary Radar;
• Ground Based Air Defence System (to include Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems capability);
• Maritime Ship Borne Radar System.
A civil / military project team are continuing their work in examining available options as well as determining the appropriate procurement strategy, through various means including bilateral engagement with other States. Governance structures to manage this programme of work are also in place. Significant progress has been made to date but we are still at the early stages of this project.
62. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if there are contingency plans in place to ensure the safety of Irish Defence Forces deployed with UNIFIL in Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38768/24]
View answer67. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report in relation to the current situation in south Lebanon; the activities of Defence Forces personnel deployed on mission with UNIFIL in light of escalating kinetic activity in those regions; the measures taken to best ensure the safety and readiness of personnel, to reassure that they are adequately supplied should they be unable to resupply for a period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39052/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 62 and 67 together.
At the outset, I wish to assure the Deputy that the safety and security of Ireland’s Defence Forces’ personnel is of paramount concern to the Government.
Over the last week, there has been a significant escalation of violence across Lebanon, in terms of Israeli air strikes and Hezbollah rocket fire. The Defence Forces has advised that this escalation has led to an increased level of kinetic activity in the UNIFIL Area of Operations including in the IRISHPOLBATT area of operations. This has led to the Irish personnel taking shelter in their bunker positions (termed a ‘GROUNDHOG’) on a number of occasions for varying periods of duration.
The Defence Forces HQ remains in ongoing contact with Irish personnel in the three UN missions (UNIFIL, UNTSO and UNDOF) in the region throughout the current unrest, and advise that all Irish personnel are all accounted for and are safe and well. The safety of troops remains paramount in terms of every activity undertaken, and personnel continue to take every precaution in terms of force protection.
I wish to reassure the Deputy that ongoing threat assessments are carried out in the mission area and personal equipment and force assets are continually reviewed so that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfil their role. Unfortunately, no mission is without danger, but I am satisfied based on the military advice that I have received, that all appropriate security measures are in place to provide for the safety of all Defence Forces personnel serving overseas. It is important to be aware also that all our people are highly trained, professional, and have undergone rigorous preparation to effectively handle the challenges that come with peacekeeping in this volatile region.
I also remain in regular contact with the UN and with the Chief of Staff with regard to the ongoing situation. The Department of Defence is also regularly kept appraised of all developments in those areas where Defence Forces personnel are deployed. Last week, while in New York at the UN High Level Week, I also took the opportunity to meet with UN Under Secretary General Lacroix, who is responsible for Peacekeeping, to discuss the ongoing situation in Lebanon and highlight the importance of peacekeeper supply, safety, security and contingency planning.
As regards supply, I wish to assure the Deputy that the personnel in UNIFIL are adequately supplied for current eventualities. Throughout the last year, the Defence Forces have ensured that additional supplies have been deployed for sustainment purposes and supplies and equipment surplus to requirements have been recovered and repatriated. The Defence Forces HQ in close coordination with IRISHPOLBATT continues to monitor the situation in this regard, and UN deliveries of supplies to personnel continue as and when conditions allow. This is in addition to a contingency supply chain in place to allow all of UNIFIL to remain in place unsupplied for up to 30 days.
Finally, with regard to contingency, though it is not the practice to ordinarily comment on operational matters, planning in this regard is part and parcel of the planning in operational deployments, including in UNIFIL. Given the ongoing security issues in South Lebanon, contingency planning is ongoing on the ground and with partners should the need for evacuation arise. It should be underlined however that the Government remains committed to our missions in the Middle-East, including UNIFIL, and the Government has no plans to evacuate our personnel currently.
63. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if any members of the Defence Forces in Lebanon have had to pay for their own flights home in the past six months; the number of members to whom this applied; and whether these members were subsequently reimbursed. [38942/24]
View answerThe requested information has been sought from the Defence Forces but unfortunately cannot be gathered within the prescribed timeframe as it covers a number of Branches within the Defence Forces as well as the battalion currently stationed in UNIFIL. The Department and the Defence Forces will continue to gather this information, and will follow up with the Deputy in due course.
|
Compassionate |
Medical |
Admin |
TOTAL |
|
15 |
3 |
7 |
25 |
64. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence when a promotion competition (details supplied) will be progressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38959/24]
View answerThe promotion competition that the Deputy refers to is scheduled to run this year.
There has been ongoing consultation between civil/military management and the Office of Reserve Affairs (ORA), to take account of a number of proposed changes to ensure improved efficiency of the competition process and to additionally ensure that the necessary regulatory underpinning for such improvements is in place. This consultation process is almost concluded and once the appropriate underpinning is in place, it is expected that the competition will be launched shortly thereafter.
65. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the capital works projects that are currently ongoing at Stephen's Barrack, Kilkenny; the estimated cost of each of these projects; and when each project will be completed, in tabular form. [39043/24]
View answerThere is one capital project currently ongoing in Stephens Barracks, details of which are is set out below:
|
Project |
EstimatedCost incl. VAT |
Expected Completion |
|
New Barrack Accountant Facility (estimated completion date early 2025) |
€627,405 |
Summer 2025 |
|
Total |
€627,405 |
The Deputy may also wish to note that the following two projects are scheduled to be developed in the near future :
• Construction of a New Locker Facility
• Upgrade O/Ranks Accommodation Blocks A-C
The following capital works have been completed to date since the launch of the Infrastructure Development Plan.
|
Year |
Projects |
Total Funding(Capital and Design Team Costs)€m |
|
2024 |
Stephens Barracks, Refurbishment of Block C - completion March 2024 |
€0.76 |
|
2022 |
Kilkenny underground site services |
€0.65 |
|
2021 |
Construction of a new gymnasium at Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny |
€3.7 |
My Department also allocates funding each year to the Defence Forces for the maintenance, repair and upkeep of its building stock. This year the devolved budget of €11 million was assigned to the Defence Forces by my Department. The individual prioritisation of specific projects to be carried out is solely a matter for the Defence Forces in keeping with the delegated nature of this budget.
66. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the engagements he has had with his Cabinet colleagues regarding the illegal transport of weapons through Ireland; the capacity within the Defence Forces to surveil Irish airspace and ensure that aircraft do not transit Ireland without the knowledge and/or permission of Irish authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39051/24]
View answer69. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the role of the air corps in surveillance and policing sovereign Irish space; the standard operating procedure should the Air Corps become aware that an aircraft is transiting sovereign Irish airspace illegally; the standard operating procedure should the Air Corps become aware that an aircraft carrying weapons of war is transiting Ireland illegally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39054/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 69 together.
As the Deputy is aware, the Minister for Transport has confirmed that his Department is examining the recent media reports regarding civil aircraft flights and the carriage of munitions of war. The Department of Transport is continuing its examination of these reports, and its ongoing engagement with the air carriers concerned.As I have stated previously, it is important that the facts as to what has taken place are established, and this is the urgent work that the Department of Transport is currently taking forward. It would not be helpful to speculate on what course the Government might take until the facts have been fully established.
In answer to the Deputy's specific question of Defence Forces capacity to be aware of aircraft movements in our air space, the development of a primary radar capability was one of the key recommendations made in the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces. One of the Early Actions identified in the subsequent High Level Action Plan published in response to the Commission’s report, was to commence planning for military radar capabilities. A project team, comprising senior civil and military personnel, has commenced work on a programme of work to develop military radar capabilities. This includes military primary radar systems, ground based air defence, maritime and counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS).
It must be acknowledged, however, that delivery of Military Radar is both costly and extremely complex, and will take some time to deliver. Nevertheless, delivery has been prioritised by Government and the increased capital allocation for Defence includes funding for the development of a primary radar capability. As indicated in the Detailed Implementation Plan, the Needs Phase has completed, with the scope of the capabilities having been established. The Requirements Phase has now commenced which will progress in accordance with the Infrastructure Guidelines. The Defence annual capital budget for 2024 is €176 million. In April, I announced record levels of capital funding for Defence over the next two years of €215 million in 2025 and €220 million in 2026. This demonstrates the Government’s strong commitment to supporting the transformation of the Defence Forces into a modern, agile military force, capable of responding to the increasingly complex security threats that have emerged.
68. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence further to reports that weapons of war bound for Israel have been illegally trafficked through Ireland, if he has conducted an analysis as to whether any such munitions have endangered the lives of Irish peacekeepers deployed on mission with UNIFIL to south Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39053/24]
View answerI believe the Deputy may be referring to a report of planes transporting weapons to Israel through Irish airspace. In the first instance, I would like to clarify that the Department of Transport holds the authority and responsibility for overseeing matters related to Irish airspace. I understand that my colleague the Minister for Transport's Department is engaging with the airlines involved and is working to confirm the accuracy of reports about cargo alleged to have been on board those flights.
Therefore, it is not possible for my Department to ascertain the specific nature of the cargo being transported on flights passing through Irish airspace.
70. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the contact he or any Minister in his Department have had with any minister or official in the government of Israel since January 2014; the nature of these contacts, the purpose of these contacts; if a record was kept; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39066/24]
View answerEngagement with my international counterparts is a central part of my work and that of my officials in the Department of Defence. That being said, in my capacity as Minister for Defence I have not had any contact with a Minister/official from Israel.
In the past there have been visits by previous Ministers for Defence to the Middle-East which included on occasion meetings with an Israeli Minister and/or officials. The last such meeting was in March 2018 when a visit to Israel was included as part of Minister Kehoe's visit to the Middle East. The visit was primarily as part of the St Patricks Day programme to the region. During that visit he met with Mr Zohar Palti, Head of Political- Military Bureau of Israel's Ministry of Defence .
71. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he will report on his engagement with veterans' associations; the work of his Department to support veterans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39124/24]
View answerMy Department provides support to two recognised Veterans Associations. These Veterans Associations, which represent all former personnel, are Óglaigh Náisiúnta na hÉireann (ONE), the Organisation of National Ex-Service Personnel, and the Irish United Nations Veterans Association (IUNVA). My officials and I meet regularly with these recognised Veterans Associations, as well as the Association of Retired Commissioned Officers (ARCO), to discuss matters of concern to their members.
My Department has entered into Service Level Agreements with ONE and IUNVA, under which an annual grant is paid to both organisations in order to assist with their administrative overheads. ONE is paid €130,000 and IUNVA is paid €30,000. These grants were increased substantially in 2022. As a further means of assistance, since 2021 my Department has also secured total funding of €900,000 under the Dormant Accounts Fund to assist ONE and IUNVA with specific special projects.
Additionally, in line with the commitment in the current Programme for Government to "support the establishment of centres for members of the Defence Forces", my Department continues to facilitate, where possible, the establishment of further ONE Veterans Support Centres and IUNVA Posts around the country. I was able to see the work of both organisations first-hand during my visits to ONE HQ in July 2023 and IUNVA HQ in June of this year.
72. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if he, his special advisory teams, or senior officials have consulted with, received briefings or sought advice from an external communications expert or communications consultancy company, or a public relations or public affairs company, in 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024; the costs associated with those interactions; the names of those that have been engaged with; the subject matter or topics the engagements related to, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39128/24]
View answerIn June of this year, the Department of Defence sought a request for tender for the engagement of external communications’ consultants to assist in the completion of a comprehensive Communications Strategy. The development of a comprehensive Communications Strategy was a specific recommendation of my Department’s Organisational Capability Review in 2022.
Following a detailed assessment of the responses received, 360 FINN Partners were awarded the contract. This Strategy is being written by Department of Defence officials only, and my Officials are the only recipients of this advice. The final costs associated have yet to be determined as the work is ongoing, however I do not envisage this contract being in excess of €25,000. My Department will write to the Deputy with a breakdown once this work is completed and billed.
I can confirm that there are no other instances, during period 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024 of myself, or my special advisory teams, or senior officials consulting with or receiving briefings or advice from an external communications expert or communications consultancy company.
73. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Transport if the OPW will carry out certain works (details supplied) arising from damage caused as a result of the serious flooding event in the Cooley peninsula in late October 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38571/24]
View answerIreland has recently experienced several severe weather events which have caused significant damage to the regional and local road network. Prompt restoration of our roads and bridges is essential to maintain social/economic connectivity as well as enabling safer journeys.
It is important to highlight, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants.
Every year the Department of Transport emphasises to all local authorities the importance of setting aside a contingency fund to manage events such as severe flooding. Where practical, the Department also works with local authorities to reprioritise grant funding following such incidences as severe weather events.
Due to the impacts of the wet winter season, Louth County Council sought additional financial support to assist in carrying out its duty as the Road Authority. My Department has committed €1m to the Council in 2024 for the managing of essential repair works, especially of key roads and bridges, as well as investing in future proofing of the network.
On 31st May 2024, I announced additional funding of €30 million to local authorities through Restoration Improvement (RI) Grants following persistent rainfall over winter and spring with Louth receiving €472,000 in additional funding.
74. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Transport the number of tests that have been undertaken under the commercial vehicle roadworthiness regulations or any other relevant regulations for 2022, 2023 and 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38712/24]
View answerThe operation of the commercial vehicle roadworthiness testing (CVRT) system under the Roadworthiness (Vehicle Testing) (No. 2) Regulations 2013 (SI 347/2013) is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. CVRT is carried out at 148 authorised CVRT centres, which are run by private operators under agreement with the RSA.
Information on the number of CVR tests undertaken in 2022 and 2023 is available at www.cvrt.ie/en-US/CVRT-Statistics/.
The number of CVRT tests undertaken in 2024 to 31 August are detailed below.
|
1 January to 31 August 2024 |
|||||
|
Vehicle Type |
Total Full Tests |
Full Test Pass Rate |
Full Test Fail Rate |
Full and retests Fail Dangerous Rate |
Total Re-Tests |
|
Trucks |
39,726 |
72% |
28% |
3.3% |
9,725 |
|
Trailers |
26,176 |
82% |
18% |
1.8% |
3,979 |
|
Buses |
11,013 |
78% |
22% |
2.1% |
2,245 |
|
Vans/Jeeps |
310,564 |
63% |
37% |
5.0% |
99,193 |
|
Fast Tractors |
43 |
65% |
35% |
5.0% |
10 |
75. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of concerns regarding the infrequent bus service to Rocky Island, Cork, which serves in excess of 250 personnel living in Haulbowline (details supplied); if this issue can reviewed and addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39019/24]
View answerAs 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 National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public passenger transport services nationally, including the scheduling and timetabling services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
76. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Transport if a club (details supplied) not included in a scheme can apply for these EV charging points; how the successful clubs were selected; the basis on which they were selected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38510/24]
View answerThe Shared Island Sports Club EV Charging Infrastructure Scheme was officially launched in February 2023. The aim of the scheme is to install a network of publicly accessible chargers in communities nationwide through their local sports clubs, in line with the Department's EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy 2022-2025.
The scheme was advertised both generally and through recognised National Governing Bodies for individual sports. The scheme is now closed for applications.
Participating clubs have applied to the scheme confirming they met the required terms and conditions., An independent assessor appointed by ZEVI then completed an initial assessment and site inspection which confirmed the club met the scheme criteria and the suitability of their sites for installation of a charger. The site inspections were undertaken by 4 market-procured suppliers with expertise either as a Charge Point Operator or in a related field such as civil engineering consultancy.
The main reasons applications were unsuccessful were not satisfying the stated minimum requirements including - no license submitted to facilitate site visits by independent inspectors, no 3-phase electricity and/or no toilet facilities on site or within 500m.
The Scheme is funded through the Government’s Shared Island Initiative and ZEVI infrastructure funding. €15m has been allocated in 2024 and 2025 for delivery of the scheme.
A total of 295 applications were received. Of these, 227 met qualifying and suitability criteria. All those clubs that were confirmed as meeting qualifying criteria are now eligible to apply for the final phase of the scheme.
77. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of plans for dedicated bike lockers and sheltered bike storage for Wicklow train station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38525/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including, in consultation with Iarnród Éireann, bike lockers at train stations.
Noting the NTA's responsibility in this matter and the specific issues raised by the Deputy, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a more detailed reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days
78. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware that Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has instructed all local authorities to withhold planned road improvement tenders unless they receive explicit approval from TII; if this is a recent change in policy; if so, the rationale for same; the number of planned projects announced by the Government that have yet to be issued for tender; if any tenders have been withdrawn; if he will provide an update on the Knockatemple pavement, Liscromwell to Knockanour (Turlough) pavement scheme, Ballina town pavement, and Claremorris town pavement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38542/24]
View answerAs 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.
Approximately €411m in capital exchequer funding was allocated to local authorities through TII for the purposes of national roads in 2024. This includes funding for new roads projects, as well as for the protection and renewal of the existing network, such as pavement renewal. The allocations announced by TII earlier this year are an indication of the progress that TII believes is possible on each national roads project during the year. However, if the progression of any national roads project, programme or operation is impeded or priorities change, the funding will be redistributed by TII, in accordance with its statutory remit, to other national roads or greenways projects, programmes, or operations.
Several new national road projects are facing funding pressures in 2024 due to reasons including an increased pace of delivery and land acquisition costs, as well as inflation and increased cost of materials which are higher than when the original estimates were calculated. These new national road projects include the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge project, which is under construction, and the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy and Limerick to Foynes (including Adare Bypass) projects which are approaching construction. A number of projects at an earlier stage in the development lifecycle are also affected. These important projects are in line with the commitment of Government to invest in new national road infrastructure to ensure that all parts of Ireland are connected to each other. They will also assist in removing traffic from our towns and villages, creating more liveable communities.
In order to ensure the continued delivery of these important projects, earlier this year TII proposed to postpone some asset renewal works on the existing network, including work to renew pavement, until 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. In addition, some Greenways funding will be used to advance active travel infrastructure on the national road network, which would otherwise be funded from the roads budget. This will allow funding to be directed to new national road projects. It is important to point out that Safety Improvement Schemes will not be affected by these measures. No funding has been withdrawn by my Department from TII this year.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply regarding the works referred to. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
79. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport the person, and their rank or position within the National Transport Authority or Dublin Bus, who did not make an application for the charging points for the electric buses that subsequently could not move for the lack of charging points; if there has been an investigation into the matter; and if so, when the results of the investigation will be reported. [38550/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, 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 the provision of relevant bus charging points, in conjunction with Dublin Bus.
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.
80. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the number of bike spaces on trains available on each intercity rail route; and if the new intercity carriages coming onboard over the next few years will have additional capacity for bikes. [38613/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy, overall funding in relation to public transport, and corporate governance of transport operators including Irish Rail.The issues raised by the Deputy in relation to the number of bike spaces on trains by each intercity route, and whether the new intercity carriages will have additional bike capacity are a matter for Irish Rail. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's questions to Irish Rail for direct response to the Deputy.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
81. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Transport the number of tickets that were sold for the Dublin Bus ‘hop on, hop off’ services in 2022, 2023 and to date in 2024; and the amount that Dublin Bus has spent on replacement of these buses for these services in 2023 and to date in 2024, in tabular form. [38614/24]
View answerAs 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.
Further, the Dublin Bus ‘hop on, hop off’ service, is a commercial bus service and responsibility for the operation of the service is a matter for the company. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
82. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Transport if a review has been undertaken on the decision to reduce essential driver training (EDT) to six hours instead of 12 hours, as instructors are reporting that students are not ready after six lessons; if he will consider allowing the instructor to assess the student and determine suitability for the reduced six EDT hours via the approved driving instructor portal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38676/24]
View answer83. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Transport if consideration can be given to liaising with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to undertake a review of the driving test, particularly elements like reverse parking, which is not used in day-to-day driving; if his Department will liaise with the RSA to instead introduce parallel and reverse parking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38677/24]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 83 together.
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the operation of the National Driver Testing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA). As part of the learning to drive process all learner drivers must complete 12 mandatory essential driver training (EDT) lessons, completed over twelve one hour sessions. In the case of an applicant with a full driver licence, from a non-EU country, that Ireland does not have a licence exchange agreement they must undertake six EDT lessons to be eligible to sit a driving test. Under the Government's Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030, a current priority action is a review of the driver curriculum, which the RSA has commenced. This review is to ensure that the service is fit for purpose, future proofed and can cope with changes in vehicle technology. International best practice and research will be considered in order to produce recommendations on improving driver education in Ireland.
84. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport the options available to install an EV charging point outside a property (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38680/24]
View answerThe Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the electric vehicle (EV) charging network over the coming years. Having an effective and reliable charging network is an essential part of enabling drivers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
There are a number of financial incentives which support the transition to EVs and the rollout of EV charging infrastructure. These include the Home Charger Grant Scheme – up to €300 – for homeowners, and the Apartment Charger Grant which assists residents and owners of apartments and multi-unit developments install an EV charger.
Home charging is the primary charging method for most Irish EV owners as it’s convenient and cheaper for the consumer as well as assisting in the overall management of the national grid. Over 80% of charging is expected to happen at home.
However, there is also a need for a seamless public charging network that will provide for situations or instances where home charging is not possible.
The draft Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan provides a pathway for the accelerated delivery of regional and local networks of public EV charging infrastructure at destination and neighbourhood areas, in line with both national and European ambitions for cleaner transportation.
This plan will be led by local authorities, working together to develop regional strategies, promoting a unified and efficient rollout of charging infrastructure, facilitating nationwide integration of EVs.
Local authorities are ideally suited to accelerate the delivery of charging infrastructure at the local level. Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland are engaging with Local Authorities and will provide funding and guidance to them for developing their strategies – these will identify areas without off street charging capabilities and identify solutions which may include off street community chargers, Shared Charging facilities, and/or use of local Rapid Destination Chargers or Hubs.
85. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Transport if he will meet with a group (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38700/24]
View answerFrom the outset I would like to clarify that I, as Minister for Transport, have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. However, issues in relation to CIÉ pension schemes are primarily a matter for the trustees of the pension schemes, the CIÉ, Group and their employees. As a commercial semi-state body CIÉ are responsible for the provision of pension schemes for their employees, this is consistent with the pension arrangements of semi-state bodies.
I am acutely aware of concerns raised by the members of both CIÉ pension schemes, regarding the lack of pension increases since 2008, especially given the higher cost of living that many are facing.
My Department is engaged with financial advisors at NewERA, the Pensions Authority, Trade Union Group Representatives, and colleagues at Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform on the matter of bringing CIÉ pensions onto a more stable footing for the benefit of active, and retired scheme members. The Department receives information from pension scheme members via correspondence, all of which are considered by my officials, and I am kept regularly update on the schemes.
The CIÉ Group is actively engaged in introducing changes to their pension schemes aimed at rectifying the significant deficit (c.€371 million for both schemes at end 2023) in order to meet the statutory Minimum Funding Standard (MFS) as required by the Pensions Authority. The changes also aim to sustain the pension schemes into the long-term.
Under the Transport Act 1950, CIÉ have initiated the statutory process by submitting an amending scheme to the Minister for Transport for review. The amending scheme is subject to Ministerial approval from both the Minister for Transport and the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform.
A statutory public consultation process is required, where any representations from interested parties will be considered. I, as Minister for Transport, may therefore confirm, modify, or reject an amending scheme in accordance with the process set out under the Transport Act. Under Section 44 of the Transport Act 1950, CIÉ is required to publish notification of any proposed change to its superannuation schemes in Iris Oifigiúil, and at its head office for a period of not less than 28 days.
I would like to clarify that decisions regarding pension increases are ultimately a matter for the CIÉ Board as informed by actuarial advice and is subject to requirements imposed by statute and scheme rules. The procedure of many commercial semi state body pension schemes, including that of CIÉ, is that it is not the Minister who grants increases, rather that the Board brings forth a proposal for an increase, and the Minister, with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure NDP Delivery and Reform, may then authorise the proposal. Neither I nor any of my predecessors in the role of Minister of Transport, have received a request from CIÉ for consent to a pension increase and pension increases in either of the Schemes since 2008.
Based on the current position of the 1951 Scheme, the Scheme Actuary is of the opinion that a pension increase is not currently affordable and that annual pension increases would not be sustainable into the future. The CIÉ Board has been advised by the Scheme Actuary that the current MFS position does not create sufficient headroom to grant pension increases at this time, as such a move would put the Scheme at risk of having a deficit on an MFS basis again. In line with industry norms, and in order to achieve stability and security for all members, a MFS funding level (including the Risk Reserve) of materially in excess of 100% is required to give the Scheme sufficient resources to withstand the investment losses that could result from investment market falls.
Any proposal to increase pension benefits would be dependent on the advice of the Scheme Actuary at the time an increase is proposed and must be done in agreement with the Trustees of the Schemes. Awarding discretionary pension increases remains a goal of the CIÉ Group, but it is not envisaged that any such increases can be awarded from the Schemes in the near term.
Requests for meetings can be sent to my diary team who will liaise directly with the requestor. They can be contacted at ministerdiary@transport.gov.ie.
86. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport if a bus service will be provided for Palatine village to facilitate travel to Carlow town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38701/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including delivering the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and New Town Services.
The rollout of transport services in County Cavan under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan is dependent on the annual Estimates process.
In light of the NTA's responsibilities for the rollout of new services, including in County Cavan, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
87. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport for a breakdown, by gender and location, of all driving test failures to date in 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38705/24]
View answerUnder the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, the operation of the National Driver Testing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and the information requested is held by them. I have therefore referred the question to the Authority for direct, detailed reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
88. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Transport the status of an application for active travel (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38723/24]
View answerAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area.
Noting the role of the NTA in the matter, I have referred your question to that agency for a more detailed answer. If you do not receive a reply within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
89. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to ban any airline company found to have illegally transported military equipment without authorisation through Irish sovereign airspace from transiting through Irish sovereign airspace in the future; if legislative changes would be required to implement such a ban; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38744/24]
View answerMy Department’s examination into the alleged contravention of the Air Navigation (Carriage of Munitions of War, Weapons and Dangerous Goods) Orders 1973 and 1989 continues. My Department is exploring all avenues of potential action to be taken if necessary and in accordance with existing legislation.
