Written Answers Nos. 335-354
335. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if he will engage with insurance companies who refuse to give the residents of Derrymullen, Ballinasloe, County Galway flood cover, given that there has been no flooding in this area since the erection of the flood wall in 2011. [69582/25]
View answerThe Department of Finance has overall responsibility for policy matters in relation to insurance, including flood insurance.
The Department of Finance engages with the insurance industry on all aspects of insurance reform, including flood cover issues. These matters are a priority for the Government and efforts continue to be made to encourage a responsive approach to the provision of flood insurance from the insurance industry. The Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions and Insurance has met with the CEOs of the major insurers where he strongly emphasised to industry the need to take a reasonable approach to the provision of cover where properties are proven to be in low risk areas, including after investment in flood defences.
The OPW has a role to assist insurance companies to take into account the protection provided by completed flood defence schemes. In this regard, the OPW has a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Insurance Ireland, the representative body of the insurance industry. The MoU sets out principles of how the two organisations work together to ensure that appropriate and relevant information on these completed schemes is provided to insurers to facilitate, to the greatest extent possible, the availability to the public of insurance against the risk of flooding.
While the MoU does not guarantee the availability of insurance, Insurance Ireland members have committed to take into account all information provided by the OPW when assessing exposure to flood risk within these protected areas. The decision on whether to offer insurance, the level of premiums charged and the policy terms applied are matters for individual insurers. Insurance companies make commercial decisions on the provision of insurance cover based on their assessment of the risks they would be accepting on a case-by-case basis. Neither the Minister for Finance or the Central Bank of Ireland can direct the provision or pricing of insurance products, in accordance with the EU framework for insurance (Solvency II Directive).
Insurance Ireland operates an Insurance Information Service for those who have queries, complaints or difficulties in relation to obtaining insurance, which can be contacted at 01 676 1914 or feedback@insuranceireland.eu. Similarly, Brokers Ireland, the representative body for insurance brokers in Ireland, has access to a wide range of providers and products, and can offer advice for customers when sourcing cover. Brokers Ireland can be reached at 01 661 3067. Furthermore, where an individual considers that they have been treated unfairly, they have the option of making a complaint to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO). The FSPO can be contacted either by email at info@fspo.ie or by telephone at 01 567 7000.
336. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the work that has been done to ensure greater access to Tetra across Galway and Roscommon; the status of the review into Tetra; if it is planned to be replaced; if so, the technology that will be used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69686/25]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that the Tetra communications network was designed to provide a reliable and robust emergency network for the State's emergency personnel with the widest possible coverage. The coverage provided by the Tetra Network is far in excess of the sum of the commercial mobile networks in Ireland.
In order to provide maximum coverage and resilience, all areas in the country are covered by overlapping service from at least two base stations with battery backup in place for key sites.
During Storm Éowyn some base stations experienced power outages and automatically switched over to operate on battery backups. Due to the protracted nature of the power cuts, the batteries became depleted at a large number of sites in the west and north-west of the country, which resulted in a loss of service in parts of those geographic areas. Service for the rest of the country did not see the same impact.
A number of measures have since been taken to increase resilience at the base station sites and to reduce the risk of disruption due to future adverse weather events.
A preventative maintenance programme has been completed at all Tetra base station sites which included verification that battery backup units are performing as designed. Tetra Ireland has also sourced additional generator units that can be deployed quickly to maintain service in the event of another sustained power outage. A number of base station sites in the West and Northwest have also been upgraded to allow for both additional battery and generator capacity.
A new emergency response protocol has been established by Tetra Ireland and ESB Networks whereby power outages at Tetra Base Station sites will be prioritised for rapid power restoration in the event of an outage. This protocol was executed successfully during and after Storm Amy in October of this year. Additionally, a number of satellite units have been procured to provide service in the event of total loss of telecommunications services in the future. These units will be available following extensive integration testing with the existing network.
With regards to the future, the Tetra Network will continue to provide connectivity to the emergency services at least in the medium term but officials in my Department are investigating what other technologies may be suitable in the future. A number of trials were carried out earlier this year using a combination of private 5G networks and satellite backhaul.
337. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if his Department has reviewed the current guidance for State entities regarding the appointment and reappointment of chief executive officers, particularly the practice of offering two consecutive terms in the context of employment law requirements; if the code of practice for the governance of State bodies needs to be updated to mitigate such risks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69844/25]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware the guidelines issued by my Department recommend one term of appointment of a CEO for 5 years (Non-commercial sector) and between 5 and 7 years (Commercial sector). However, as the Deputy may also be aware, exceptional circumstances in a State body, or provisions included in the establishing legislation for the State Body, may provide for a second and final term of appointment. The guidelines issued by my Department also provide for such exceptional circumstances.
Guidelines for Appointments of CEOs on Non-Commercial State Bodies, issued by my Department, states “In general, CEOs are appointed for one five year fixed-term contract, unless otherwise provided for in the Body’s establishing legislation”. Furthermore, these Guidelines provide for exceptional circumstances of one further and final term whereby “In exceptional circumstances, the Board may wish to reappoint a CEO”. However, and as outlined in the Guidelines, “Any reappointment must have due regard to the obligations of employers under the Protection of Employees (Fixed-Term Work) Act 2003”. Section 8(2) of the 2003 Act provides that where an employer proposes to renew a fixed term contract the employee must be informed in writing, at the latest by the date of renewal of the contract, of the objective ground justifying the renewal and the failure to offer a Contract of Indefinite Duration (CID). If the Board wishes to reappoint the CEO for one further and final term, they should submit a business case to their Parent Department”. The Guidelines for Appointments of CEOs on Non-Commercial State Bodies are available at the following link [assets.gov.ie/static/documents/guidelines-for-appointments-of-ceos-of-non-commercial-state-bodies.pdf].
The relevant guidance issued by my Department in relation to tenure of CEOs of Commercial State Bodies (CSB) is ‘The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies’ Annex 'Remuneration and Superannuation’ Para 1.11 which states “It is the policy and practice across all Departments that the term of the contract of a CEO (or equivalent) of a commercial State body is normally limited to a single contract period of between five and seven years". However, in particular circumstances, the relevant Minister may consent to a single extension beyond the initial term, reflecting the circumstances in the CSB. Where such particular circumstances arise, relevant Government policy and practice is that the extension would not exceed a maximum cumulative term of 10 years in total. The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, Annex Remuneration and Superannuation is available at the following link [assets.gov.ie/static/documents/remuneration-and-superannuation-bc4ee974-9960-4459-b5f1-0f7f3da27211.pdf].
338. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation further to the recommendation included in the European Commission's 2025 Rule of Law Report for Ireland (details supplied), the steps taken to address this recommendation; the expected timeline for the completion of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69987/25]
View answerThe recommendation in the Rule of Law Report to which the Deputy refers concerns Ireland’s statutory framework for Ethics in public life: the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995 and the Standards in Public Office Act 2001 (collectively cited as the Ethics Acts), which fall within the policy responsibilities of my Department.
I wish to assure him that reform in this area is a priority for the Government, and we have committed in our Programme for Government 2025, 'Securing Ireland’s Future', to update the legislation in question. I am also happy to see that the Rule of Law Report itself notes the progress that we are making in strengthening the ethics framework.
Nevertheless, this policy area remains complex and careful consideration is required before I bring forward detailed proposals for legislative reform.
My Department has already prepared the ground with a comprehensive review of the legislative framework for ethics. This was undertaken during the life of the last Government and the Report and findings were published in February 2023. The Report's recommendations include that the legislative framework for ethics should be underpinned by a set of integrity principles; that disclosure requirements should be strengthened to improve transparency; and that consideration should be given to whether the regime should encompass more office holders. The Report also recommends a strengthening of the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO). Certain, more recent, recommendations in relation to ethics will also need to be considered in the context of the reform agenda.
A variety of operational and policy considerations flow from this. I am conscious that this represents an opportunity to make real and meaningful, long-term change to our current regime and I wish to ensure that this happens in a way that is both coherent from a policy perspective and user-friendly from an operational perspective.
Given this context, I will examine the outstanding policy issues with care, including those raised in the Rule of Law Report recommendation, and engage with my officials to determine the most appropriate way to deliver on this Programme for Government commitment.
339. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation whether contributions from the State or from employers towards the My Future Fund pension scheme will be reckonable as income for the purposes of assessing the eligibility of an individual or household for any means-tested services or schemes operated by his Department. [70027/25]
View answerThe Department Public Expenditure; Infrastructure; Public Service Reform and Digitalisation does not any operate means-tested services or schemes.
340. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation who professionally carried out the market valuation upon which the monthly or annual rent was based on a property (details supplied); and if he will provide a copy of the report. [70196/25]
View answerThe valuation to ascertain the level of rent payable in respect of the house referred to was carried out by the Valuation Office. A copy of the report has been provided to the Deputy with some minor redactions to protect the identity of individuals. The floor plans attached to the Report have also been redacted for data protection reasons.
341. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the dates and attendees at all meetings between the OPW and the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration in 2017 and 2018, by date and attendees, in tabular form. [70203/25]
View answer342. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the dates and attendees at all meetings between the OPW and An Garda Síochána in 2017 and 2018, by date and attendees, in tabular form. [70204/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 341 and 342 together.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) engages with both the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and An Garda Síochána (AGS) on a regular basis on a broad range of issues. Much of this engagement is operational and takes place on a daily basis for example reactive call outs to various Garda Stations around the country by the OPW Regional Staff.
During 2017 and 2018 a monthly meeting was held between the OPW and AGS to discuss Garda Estate Management with a focus on the Garda Building Programme.
These meetings were generally attended by staff at Principal and Assistant Principal Level from AGS, Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and the OPW.
Concurrently, there were several capital projects underway. Regular meetings were held between OPW and AGS in accordance with project governance arrangements. These projects included:
• Wexford Divisional Garda Station
• Kevin St Divisional Garda Station
• Galway Divisional Garda Station
• Walter Scott House, Military Road
• Athlone Divisional Garda Station Redevelopment Stage 2
• Fitzgibbon St Garda Station
• Garda Headquarters Phoenix Park – Masterplan
With respect to property matters, there are regular meetings held with the Department of Justice to discuss various accommodation issues. These are attended at Principal and Assistant Principal level. During 2017 and 2018 the OPW engaged with the Department to design and deliver a range of small projects in some of their Dublin offices that would facilitate the release of a high cost lease at number 94 St. Stephens Green that was due to expire in June 2018.
A high level meeting between the OPW and the Department was held to discuss these projects in August 2017 attended by the Secretary General and the Principal Officer from the Department. Attendees from the OPW included the then Chairman, Assistant Secretary, Principal Officer and Assistant Principal Officer.
There were also regular high-level meetings held between the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, the OPW and AGS to discuss key issues, the progress of key projects and the strategic approach to Garda Estate Management. These meetings were attended by staff at Assistant Secretary and Principal Officer Levels from the three organisations.
343. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the average time over the past six years it has taken to produce a stamped final bill in his Department from the time when his Department has received government approval for the general scheme and the heads of a bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70278/25]
View answerI wish to advise the Deputy that a deferred reply will be issued to him in respect of this Parliamentary Question, in line with Standing Order 52(1)(b).
344. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of employees currently employed in the National Shared Service Office; the number of staff per year since 2015, by grade, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70283/25]
View answerI refer the Deputy to the below table:
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2015 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total FTEs |
N/A |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2016 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total FTEs |
N/A |
|
Organisation: |
|
|
Year: 2017 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Principal Officer |
8 |
|
Assistant Principal |
29.6 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
66.20 |
|
Executive Officer |
139.78 |
|
Clerical Officer |
444.47 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
27 |
|
Total FTEs |
718.05 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2018 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
2 |
|
Principal Officer |
12 |
|
Assistant Principal |
43 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
80.34 |
|
Executive Officer |
161.52 |
|
Clerical Officer |
439.48 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
7 |
|
Total FTEs |
746.34 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2019 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Principal Officer |
11 |
|
Assistant Principal |
43 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
75.20 |
|
Executive Officer |
163.29 |
|
Clerical Officer |
453.26 |
|
Total FTEs |
749.75 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2020 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Principal Officer |
10 |
|
Assistant Principal |
41.60 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
75.40 |
|
Executive Officer |
172.89 |
|
Clerical Officer |
480.90 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officers |
3 |
|
Total FTEs |
787.79 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2021 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Principal Officer |
11 |
|
Assistant Principal |
45 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
71.60 |
|
Executive Officer |
180.19 |
|
Temporary Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Clerical Officer |
414.74 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
4 |
|
Total FTEs |
731.53 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2022 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Principal Officer |
12 |
|
Assistant Principal |
46 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
98.5 |
|
Executive Officer |
184.4 |
|
Temporary Executive Officer |
3 |
|
Clerical Officer |
434.58 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
20 |
|
Total FTEs |
802.48 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2023 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Director (Chief Information Officer) |
1 |
|
Principal Officer |
10 |
|
Assistant Principal |
53 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
87.6 |
|
Executive Officer |
204 |
|
Temporary Executive Officer |
2 |
|
Clerical Officer |
425.95 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
9 |
|
Total FTEs |
796.55 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2024 |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Director (Chief Information Officer) |
1 |
|
Principal Officer |
12 |
|
Assistant Principal |
55 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
107.6 |
|
Executive Officer |
198.5 |
|
Clerical Officer |
479.85 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
24 |
|
Total FTEs |
881.95 |
|
Organisation: NSSO |
|
|
Year: 2025 to Date |
|
|
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
Chief Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
3 |
|
Director (Chief Information Officer) |
1 |
|
Principal Officer |
15 |
|
Assistant Principal |
59 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
110.60 |
|
Executive Officer |
215.95 |
|
Temporary Executive Officer |
1 |
|
Clerical Officer |
496.63 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer |
12 |
|
Total FTEs |
915.18 |
345. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of employees currently employed in the Office of Public Works; the number of staff per since 2015, by grade, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70288/25]
View answerPlease see attached the total FTE of staff employed in the OPW, by year, since 2015. The figures are represented by State Industrial and Established staff groupings, for 2015-2025 (noting that the figure for 2025 is as of 8th December 2025).
346. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the number of employees currently employed in the offices of the Public Appointment Service; the number of staff per year since 2015, by grade, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70289/25]
View answerI refer the Deputy to the below table:
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2015 |
Not available from NSSO data |
113 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total FTEs |
113 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2016 |
Not available from NSSO data |
144 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total FTEs |
144
|
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2017 |
TCO |
2 |
|
|
Service Officer |
2 |
|
|
CO |
71.9 |
|
|
EO |
47.7 |
|
|
HEO |
19 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
3.9 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
12.5 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
5.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
165.6
|
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2018 |
TCO |
4 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
79.24 |
|
|
EO |
47.1 |
|
|
HEO |
24.16 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
3.9 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
13 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
5.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
181 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2019 |
TCO |
1 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
91.02 |
|
|
EO |
51.95 |
|
|
HEO |
25.16 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
4 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
17.6 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
4.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
199.33 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2020 |
TCO |
1 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
86.92 |
|
|
EO |
60.05 |
|
|
HEO |
29.6 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
4 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
20.46 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
5.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
211.63 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2021 |
TCO |
6 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
91.67 |
|
|
EO |
55.05 |
|
|
HEO |
31.2 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
6 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
23.56 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
6.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
224.08 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2022 |
TCO |
4 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
113.9 |
|
|
EO |
78.9 |
|
|
HEO |
34.4 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
7 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
25.2 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
4.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
272 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2023 |
TCO |
10 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
122 |
|
|
EO |
86.1 |
|
|
HEO |
34.8 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
7 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
26 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
7.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
297.5 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2024 |
TCO |
2 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
116.7 |
|
|
EO |
94.2 |
|
|
HEO |
45.2 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
7 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
27.5 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
9.6 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
306.2 |
|
Organisation: Public Appointments Service |
Grade |
Number of FTEs |
|
2025 to date |
TCO |
0 |
|
|
SVO |
3 |
|
|
CO |
119.8 |
|
|
EO |
79.2 |
|
|
HEO |
45.8 |
|
|
AO & Equivalent |
7 |
|
|
AP & Equivalent |
28.6 |
|
|
PO & Equivalent |
8 |
|
|
CEO |
1 |
|
|
Total FTEs |
293 |
347. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the empty buildings which exist in County Mayo. [70319/25]
View answerThe Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility on behalf of the State for managing and maintaining a substantial and complex estate of approximately 2,500 properties.
This extensive and diverse portfolio of State properties includes office accommodation for all Government Departments, the property estate for An Garda Síochána and numerous properties for many State Agencies. The portfolio also encompasses specialised spaces such as public offices, laboratories, and cultural institutions, in addition to warehouses, heritage properties, visitor centres, and sites.
In any major portfolio, there will always be a certain level of vacant or non-operational properties, at any given time, as the portfolio could not function without the flexibility that it provides. Not all vacant properties will be deemed surplus to the state’s requirements or suitable for disposal.
The OPW, like other State bodies, is obliged to follow central Government policies on the disposal of surplus properties and the arrangements involved are set out in the following Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) Circulars:
• Circular 11/2015: Protocols for the Transfer and Sharing of State Property Assets
• Circular 17/2016: Policy for Property Acquisition and for Disposal of Surplus Property
As a matter of policy, no property is disposed of until there is absolute certainty that there is no alternative State use for that property.
The OPW’s Policy in managing surplus vacant properties is firstly, to establish if the property is required for alternative State use, including the potential for it to be re-purposed for either Government Departments or the wider public service. A number of strategic properties are retained in anticipation of potential State use/development in line with service demands arising from Government policy changes to public service provision.
Secondly, if no State use is identified, the OPW considers if open market disposal is an option, depending on prevailing market conditions.
Thirdly, the OPW may consider community involvement, subject to a detailed submission that demonstrates that the community or voluntary group seeking to use the property has the means to insure, maintain, and manage it in order to reduce costs to the Exchequer.
Before properties are placed on the open market the OPW advises other state bodies of its owned surplus vacant properties, so that they can assess them for suitability for social or humanitarian housing purposes or for other State use. This includes the Land Development Agency, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Department of Children, Disability and Equality and the relevant Local Authority.
The following properties in Co. Mayo are currently vacant and surplus:
|
Property |
Status |
|
Former Garda Station and Residence at Ballycastle, Co. Mayo |
Sale agreed following online/public auction |
|
Former Garda Station and Residence at Glenisland, Co. Mayo. |
Sale agreed following online/public auction |
348. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the details of each empty building that his Department owns or rents nationwide, by county. [70320/25]
View answerThe Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility on behalf of the State for managing and maintaining a substantial and complex estate of approximately 2,500 properties.
This extensive and diverse portfolio of State properties includes office accommodation for all Government Departments, the property estate for An Garda Síochána and numerous properties for many State Agencies. The portfolio also encompasses specialised spaces such as public offices, laboratories, and cultural institutions, in addition to warehouses, heritage properties, visitor centres, and sites.
In any major portfolio, there will always be a certain level of vacant or non-operational properties, at any given time, as the portfolio could not function without the flexibility that it provides. Not all vacant properties will be deemed surplus to the state’s requirements or suitable for disposal.
The OPW, like other State bodies, is obliged to follow central Government policies on the disposal of surplus properties and the arrangements involved are set out in the following Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) Circulars:
• Circular 11/2015: Protocols for the Transfer and Sharing of State Property Assets
• Circular 17/2016: Policy for Property Acquisition and for Disposal of Surplus Property
As a matter of policy, no property is disposed of until there is absolute certainty that there is no alternative State use for that property.
The OPW’s Policy in managing surplus vacant properties is firstly, to establish if the property is required for alternative State use, including the potential for it to be re-purposed for either Government Departments or the wider public service. A number of strategic properties are retained in anticipation of potential State use/development in line with service demands arising from Government policy changes to public service provision.
Secondly, if no State use is identified, the OPW considers if open market disposal is an option, depending on prevailing market conditions.
Thirdly, the OPW may consider community involvement, subject to a detailed submission that demonstrates that the community or voluntary group seeking to use the property has the means to insure, maintain, and manage it in order to reduce costs to the Exchequer.
Before properties are placed on the open market the OPW advises other state bodies of its owned surplus vacant properties, so that they can assess them for suitability for social or humanitarian housing purposes or for other State use. This includes the Land Development Agency, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Department of Children, Disability and Equality and the relevant Local Authority.
There are currently 56 owned surplus vacant buildings and 1 leased vacant building. A list of the current surplus vacant buildings is attached at Appendix 1. Some are being prepared for disposal, others are being transferred to local authorities for social housing, with others being examined for alternative uses.
349. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the way in which his Department is advancing digitalisation of public services; the specific supports being provided to ensure rural communities in Laois have equitable access to online government services, given ongoing broadband challenges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70342/25]
View answerIn November 2025, I launched the Digital Public Services Plan 2030, which sets out Ireland’s roadmap to fully digitalise key public services by 2030, ensuring that 100% of these services are available online and 90% of applicable services are accessed digitally. Aligned with this Plan, my Department is delivering critical features of the digital public service infrastructure to improve the quality, consistency and interoperability of digital systems underpinning key public services.
In early 2026, my department will publish the Public Service Data Strategy 2030 to deliver a modern public service data ecosystem where high quality public administrative data is routinely used for policy and service planning and delivery for Better Public Services outcomes.
As set out in Digital for Good: Ireland’s Digital Inclusion Roadmap, Government’s aim is to make the digital transition a positive one for those who can engage digitally and to provide support or an alternative for those who cannot.
Combined, these strategies and their successful and sustained implementation reshape the way in which public services are delivered and experienced, with the overall goal of improving outcomes and trust.
The Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, oversees delivery of Ireland’s National Broadband Plan (NBP). In those Deployment Areas still awaiting the rollout of the National Broadband Ireland (NBI) network, Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) offer an interim solution, allowing local residents to quickly get free public access to high-speed broadband in advance of fibre deployment under the National Broadband Plan. NBI reports that 283 publicly accessible BCP sites now connected with a high-speed broadband service through a service provider contract with Vodafone. To find the nearest public BCP, an Eircode can be searched on NBI’s website ([nbi.ie/bcp-map/]).
I have been advised by NBI that over 11,985 premises are now passed with a high-speed fibre broadband network and are available to order/pre-order in the deputy’s own county of Laois, with circa 4,955 premises now connected. A further circa 1,000 premises in County Laois will be passed by NBI’s high speed fibre broadband by the end of network deployment. The latest information on when high-speed broadband will become available to premises in the Intervention Area can be found on NBI’s website at [nbi.ie/map/].
350. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the way in which his Department is ensuring value-for-money in capital and current expenditure across all Departments, given inflationary pressures and rising construction costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70343/25]
View answerEnsuring effective and appropriate oversight of use of public funds is a key responsibility of all Departments and Ministers.
Government has in place a range of oversight mechanisms pertaining to public expenditure whose objectives are to ensure financial control of monies appropriated by the Dáil and to ensure those monies deliver value for money.
These mechanisms are in place at the various levels of policy implementation and delivery, and work together to provide a strong oversight structure, ensuring effective oversight and transparency, while facilitating delivery. Some examples of these frameworks are:
• Various budgetary processes and reforms which are in place to support oversight in the delivery of policy
• Guidelines, such as the Infrastructure Guidelines for capital expenditure, and the Public Spending Code for current expenditure
• The Code of Practice of the Governance of State Bodies
• Public Financial Procedures
• Public Procurement Guidelines
• Arrangements for oversight of Digital/IT projects and initiatives
• Internal and External audit which provide validation of all public expenditure
The Public Financial Procedures (PFP) sets out the rules and underpinning legal framework for the appropriate use of public money. It is based on the Constitution and legislation as well as the institutional and financial relationships between the Oireachtas, the Government, the Minister for Finance and my Department.
The detailed procedures of the PFP are required to be observed by Government Departments in their use of public funds to provide public services and develop the State's capital infrastructure.
The office of the Comptroller and Auditor General relies on and refers to these frameworks during its investigations and cites them in his reports, particularly such frameworks as the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies and Public Financial Procedures.
These measures are updated periodically. Currently, reforms recommended by the Accelerating Infrastructure Task Force to support coordination, align planning and funding, and create a more predictable pathway for delivering critical infrastructure are being implemented. This will result in a reduction in timelines for project approval and delivery, while retaining sufficient protections to ensure value for public money.
351. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the steps his Department is taking to address escalating capital project costs under the National Development Plan, particularly in education and transport infrastructure; the way in which cost-control and procurement reforms are being implemented to ensure value-for-money for the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70344/25]
View answerMy Department is responsible for the Infrastructure Guidelines, which aims to ensure value for money for the taxpayer in delivering on capital requirements of the State. These guidelines set out directions for evaluating, planning, and managing Exchequer-funded capital spending.
My department is also responsible for the Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF), an integrated set of contractual provisions, guidance material and technical procedures which covers all aspects of the delivery process of a public works project from inception to final project delivery and review. The structure of this strategic framework is closely aligned with and complements the Infrastructure Guidelines.
Under the Infrastructure Guidelines, sponsoring agencies and approving authorities are asked to critically consider the potential cost implications of a project, which are further developed as a project progresses through the approval gates and more information becomes available. This includes undertaking both detailed financial and economic appraisal, sensitivity analysis, accounting for behavioural influences such as optimism bias as well as consideration of appropriate levels of contingency.
Within the CWMF, there are ongoing reforms designed to enable better decision making and reduce risks on construction projects, ensuring better value for money. These include:
• rebalancing the risk position in the public works contracts aimed at encouraging greater participation, thereby improving competition,
• a public sector Building Information Modelling (BIM) mandate, providing the structure for the development of high quality information generated on a construction project and promoting collaboration between all the members of the project team,
• adoption of new Reporting Templates based on the International Cost Management Standard (ICMS),
• proposals to amend the existing dispute resolution mechanisms and to promote the greater use of dispute avoidance, and
• the establishment of a working group in conjunction with the Government Contracts Committee for Construction to develop a model to engage construction and manufacturing expertise early in the design stage to foster collaboration and explore innovative construction solutions.
Management and delivery of investment projects and public services within allocation and the national frameworks is a key responsibility of every Department, Accounting Officer and Minister. This includes the Department of Transport and the Department of Education.
352. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation to provide an update on the implementation of the Digital Ireland Framework; the timelines for the expansion of digital ID, online public services, and cyber-security readiness across Government departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [70345/25]
View answerThe Digital Ireland Framework, launched in 2022, sets out Ireland’s ambition to be a digital leader in Europe by 2030 and aligns closely with the EU Digital Decade objectives. The Framework focuses on four key pillars:
• digital transformation of business,
• digital infrastructure,
• digital skills, and
• the digitalisation of public services.
Significant progress has been made across these areas and I would direct the Deputy to the annual update reports published by the Department of An Taoiseach which has overall coordination of the Digital Ireland Framework and alignment with EU Digital Decade targets, (available here https://assets.gov.ie/static/documents/Harnessing_Digital_-_Progress_Report_2024.pdf).
My Department has responsibility for coordinating the digitalisation of public services and I would direct you to the recently published Digital Public Services Plan 2030 which commits to making all key public services available online and to achieving 90% digital uptake of these services by 2030. Online services will be delivered through a life-events portal hosted on gov.ie, to simplify users experience as they engage with public services. I am pleased to report that there are currently over 3 and a quarter million verified MyGovID accounts, and progress continues towards a target of 80% adoption by 2030.
The Government digital wallet is one of a number of building blocks of the digital transition that will see all key public services becoming available online over the next five years in line with our targets under the EU Digital Decade. The technical build of the Irish EU-compatible Digital Wallet, developed in line with the EU’s eIDAS 2.0 regulation, completed a successful pilot programme and there will be a further limited beta version launched in the coming months.
The Digital infrastructure has been greatly enhanced by the construction of the newly completed Government Data Centre in Backweston, which will support secure and efficient delivery of digital services.
With regard to Cyber Security, the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications oversees cybersecurity policy and the National Cyber Security Centre and coordinates the Cyber CORE project. The Government’s Cyber Security Co-ordination and Response Network (GovCORE) is made up of representatives from 28 Departments and Agencies and continues to strengthen cyber resilience by threat intelligence sharing and joint training across critical sectors.
353. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment given recent reports that the Australian Government has identified the possible use of asbestos materials in certain wind turbines brake systems, if he will confirm whether asbestos-containing components are used in any wind turbines operating in the State; if any assessment or investigation has been undertaken to determine this; and if so, the findings of that investigation. [70247/25]
View answerThe use of asbestos was phased out in Ireland with laws passed in 1994 and 1998, but a complete ban was not enacted until 2004, under the European Communities (Dangerous Substances and Preparations) (Marketing and Use) Regulations 2003.
Under https://echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/ea9dc42d-7656-8afd-09e4-d8b41fae2c9c of Annex XVII to the REACH Regulation, the manufacture, placing on the market (including import) and use of asbestos fibres (Crocidolite, Amosite, Anthophyllite, Actinolite, Tremolite and Chrysotile) and of articles and mixtures containing these fibres added intentionally is prohibited. However, the use of articles containing asbestos fibres which were already installed and/or in service in the State before 1 January 2005 continue to be permitted to be used until they are disposed of or reach the end of their service life.
While awareness has been raised of the recent reports from Australia relating to the detection of asbestos containing components used in the internal service lifts of a number of wind turbines, neither The Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment nor The Health and Safety Authority has been notified of the presence of asbestos containing components in any wind turbines operating in the state.
No assessment or investigation into the presence of asbestos-containing braking system in wind turbines operating in the State has been undertaken to date.
354. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to set out, in respect of Coimisiún na Meán in its role as Digital Services Coordinator under Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 (the Digital Services Act), the total number of formal orders issued since 17 February 2024 to providers of intermediary services requiring the removal or disabling of access to specific content, and the downranking, limitation of visibility or other forms of algorithmic suppression of content; the Member State of establishment or other country of origin of each provider concerned; the legal basis and nature of the alleged infringement in each case; if, and on what date, each order was implemented in full or in part by the provider; and the number of such orders which were issued following a request from another Digital Services Coordinator or the European Commission, and have been communicated to other Digital Services Coordinators or the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69009/25]
View answer355. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment to state whether Coimisiún na Meán, in its capacity as Digital Services Coordinator under Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, has issued any orders, binding instructions, formal notices, or informal requests to intermediary service providers established in the State which resulted in the removal, restriction, downranking, or other limitation of access to content originating in the United States; to provide details of the number of such cases, the type of measure applied, the legal basis invoked, and whether the relevant action was initiated by Coimisiún na Meán, by another Member State's Digital Services Coordinator, or by the European Commission; and to outline whether any such measures were communicated to, or coordinated with U.S. authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69010/25]
View answer356. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if Coimisiún na Meán, in its role as Digital Services Coordinator under Regulation (EU) 2022/2065, received or acted upon any requests, alerts, or cooperation mechanisms from other Digital Services Coordinators or the European Commission in connection with the recent elections in Romania, the Czech Republic, or the Netherlands; the number and nature of any measures taken by Coimisiún na Meán or by service providers established in the State under the Digital Services Act in relation to election-related content, including takedown orders, visibility-limitation measures, or systemic risk mitigation actions; to indicate whether any such measures affected cross-border content flows or accounts accessible in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69011/25]
View answer357. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the current applicants for the trusted flagger system, and those already with the designation; to set out the steps Coimisiún na Meán takes to assess the funding sources, foreign ties, advocacy positions, or potential conflicts of interest of organisations applying for trusted flagger status; if any applicants have been rejected, suspended, or reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [69012/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 354, 355, 356 and 357 together.
Under Section 10 of the Broadcasting and Other Media Regulation Acts 2009 and 2022, Coimisiún na Meán is established as an independent regulator. This statutory independence ensures that decisions relating to enforcement, compliance, and operational matters are taken without Ministerial direction or influence. This separation of powers is essential to maintain the integrity of the regulatory framework and to uphold Ireland’s obligations under EU law.
Article 50 of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 (the Digital Services Act) explicitly requires that national Digital Services Coordinators, such as Coimisiún na Meán, act with complete independence and remain free from any external influence when carrying out their tasks and exercising their powers. This provision reflects a core principle of EU law, that regulatory authorities must operate autonomously to guarantee impartiality, legal certainty, and the effective application of the Regulation across Member States.
The questions raised, covering the issuance of orders to service providers, cooperation with other authorities, actions on election-related content, and the designation of trusted flaggers, fall squarely within the operational remit of An Coimisiún. These functions involve regulatory judgment and enforcement under the Digital Services Act, which are matters for the independent regulator.
Under Article 55 of the Digital Services Act, Coimisiún na Meán is required to publish an annual activity report detailing its activities under the Regulation. This report is publicly available and those seeking further information on these operational matters may consult the most recent report at: www.cnam.ie/app/uploads/2025/04/20250319_Art-55-DSA-report_VFinal.pdf.
