Micheál Carrigy
Question:162. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of civil and public servants employed by her Department in each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [33952/26]
View answerDepartmental Staff
Questions (162)
Written answers
The number of civil servants employed by my department in the years 2015-2025 is provided in tabular form below.
Each figure provided is as of 31 December in the year in question.
The number of civil servants employed at 31 December 2025 by the Department includes staff serving in temporary roles to prepare for Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the European Council as our preparations for Ireland’s Presidency intensify across both policy and operational strands of planning.
In addition to civil servants, my department also employs staff across our diplomatic missions abroad that are recruited locally. These employees are subject to local labour law and their salaries are set on a mission by mission basis based on their job description and on the prevailing conditions for salaries in each location. The number of locally recruited staff as of 31 December 2025 was 987.
|
Year |
Total |
|
2015 |
1,152 |
|
2016 |
1,208 |
|
2017 |
1,276 |
|
2018 |
1,422 |
|
2019 |
1,641 |
|
2020 |
1,617 |
|
2021 |
1,844 |
|
2022 |
2,012 |
|
2023 |
2,117 |
|
2024 |
2,220 |
|
2025 |
2,410 |
Energy Infrastructure
Questions (163, 164, 167, 168, 174, 177)
Catherine Callaghan
Question:163. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a list of all capital projects, including energy and environmental infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of his Department, and bodies under his aegis, which have been completed on time and within budget in Carlow in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33449/26]
View answerCatherine Callaghan
Question:164. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a list of all capital projects, including energy and environmental infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of his Department, and bodies under his aegis, which have been completed on time and within budget in Kilkenny in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33450/26]
View answer
Paula Butterly
Question:167. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a list of all capital projects, including energy and environmental infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of his Departments, and bodies under their aegis, which have been completed on time and within budget in Louth in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33634/26]
View answer
Emer Currie
Question:168. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a list of all capital projects, including energy and environmental infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of his Departments, and bodies under their aegis, which have been completed on time and within budget in Dublin West in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33674/26]
View answer
Barry Ward
Question:174. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a list of all capital projects including energy and environmental infrastructure projects delivered under the remit of his Department, and bodies under its aegis, which have been completed on time and within budget in Dublin in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33821/26]
View answer
Brian Brennan
Question:177. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a list of all capital projects including energy and environmental infrastructure projects delivered under the remit of his Department, and bodies under his aegis, which have been completed on time and within budget in the Wicklow Wexford constituency in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33934/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 163, 164, 167, 168, 174 and 177 together.
My Department, through its agencies and bodies under its aegis, works to deliver climate action, the transformation of our energy systems, the protection and resilience of our environment, and a resource–efficient economy. Capital funding provided by my Department, including through its agencies, supports the delivery of secure and sustainable supplies of energy, a robust system for the regulation of Ireland’s energy markets and infrastructure, and the protection of Ireland’s environment and reducing Ireland’s carbon emissions.
In this context, my Department does not have direct responsibility for the delivery of individual infrastructure projects, with the majority of its capital funding provided via grant programmes administered by agencies of the Department. Such grants are typically provided to recipients in accordance with strictly specified criteria, which avoids the possibility of budget overruns for the Department on individual grant awards.
During the period specified by the Deputy, my Department had responsibility for the National Broadband Plan which, following a 2025 transfer of functions, now falls within the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport.
The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency and as such the Deputy may wish to contact those agencies directly. Contact details are set out in the attached document for ease of reference
Question No. 164 answered with Question No. 163.
Energy Policy
Questions (165)
Gillian Toole
Question:165. Deputy Gillian Toole asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the analysis of an organisation (details supplied) of surplus grid energy that has taken place; if there is a proposal to make free surplus energy available to targeted customers in energy poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33507/26]
View answerWritten answers
Imperfections and dispatch down is a major challenge facing electricity systems, like ours, that are increasingly powered by renewables. This complex issue can only be addressed by taking a systematic and multi-faceted approach requiring investment in grid, storage and demand flexibility.
We are already taking steps to invest in this critical energy infrastructure. For example, PR6 will enable the delivery of over 500 capital network projects, supporting the integration of increasing volumes of renewables and helping to reduce the amount of wasted energy. Last July, the Government committed to investing €3.5 billion of NDP funding in EirGrid and ESB Networks in order to ensure that the PR6 infrastructure programme can be delivered.
Also last year, my Department published the Electricity Storage Policy Framework for Ireland which supported the procurement of 500 MW of demand flexibility products by ESBN and 500 MW of long duration electricity storage by EirGrid to meet specific network needs. Work is already underway to ensure the timely delivery of both.
Last June, EirGrid established the Renewable Dispatch Down Working Group. This group is actively working with renewable industry representatives to identify additional actions that could improve levels of ‘dispatch down’.
Demand flexibility can also help to support our transition to a renewables-led energy system. The National Energy Demand Strategy aims to make 20% to 30% of electricity demand flexible by 2030. A key aspect of this strategy is preparing households and businesses to maximise their use of renewables.
Energy Cloud is a privately-organised and funded organisation, and my Department is not in a position to assess savings associated with the programme, or the characteristics of beneficiaries of the programme to date. Officials from my Department have met with Energy Cloud on a number of occasions and will continue to engage with Energy Cloud as well as other relevant stakeholders to identify areas for cooperation in relation to tackling energy poverty and renewable energy waste.
A new Demonstration and Innovation Delivery Programme is under development by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) with the intention of identifying solutions to smart energy challenges, testing applications and assessing impacts. This will be crucial for the successful integration of flexible energy assets in homes, businesses and communities and will ensure that these assets can optimise energy use for consumers, as well as allow consumers to participate in flexible demand management services as these become available. The SEAI’s National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Programme provides a framework for successful applicants to scale their initiatives while also ensuring that the associated results and impacts are identified. On my request, the SEAI has met with Energy Cloud to discuss the possibility of Energy Cloud participating in this Programme.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce has also been established by my Department to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses, while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability. It will consider the use of smart technologies to benefit energy poor households and other vulnerable citizens.
The First Report of the Taskforce set out measures for consideration in the Budget 2026 process. The Taskforce is now focused on the preparation of an Energy Affordability Action Plan to be submitted to Government in Q3. The Action Plan will include a review of cost drivers within the energy sector and consideration of measures that benefit households in energy poverty.
Turf Cutting
Questions (166)
Carol Nolan
Question:166. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will confirm, following remarks by the Taoiseach (details supplied), that it is the policy of his Department and the policy of Government to cease all commercial extraction of peat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33554/26]
View answerWritten answers
Commercial peat extraction continues to be a regulated activity. My Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Service commissioned a guidance document The Regulatory Framework Applying to Peat Extraction - A Guidance Document which is available on gov.ie.
This document contains information regarding the regulatory framework (primarily that aspect which relates to the Planning System) which applies to peat extraction. Planning policy and legislation in that regard are matters for the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
In summary:
• For peat extraction on an area of less than 30 Ha, planning permission from the relevant local authority and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) may be required (e.g. if the extraction is likely to have a significant effect on the environment). Appropriate Assessment (AA) is required if peat extraction could have a significant effect on a protected area.
• For peat extraction on an area between 30 to 50 Ha, planning permission from the relevant local authority and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required. Appropriate Assessment (AA) is also required if peat extraction could have a significant effect on a protected area.
• For peat extraction from on an area greater than 50 Ha, the extraction needs an Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) licence from the Environmental Protection Agency (Agency) as well as planning permission from the relevant local authority. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required. Appropriate Assessment (AA) is required if peat extraction could have a significant effect on a protected area.
As set out above, in addition to planning permission, the extraction of peat in areas over 50 Hectares requires an IPC licence from the Agency. The Agency is an independent public body established under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 and is entirely independent in the exercise of its functions, including enforcement, under that Act.
The Agency provides details of its enforcement action on its website, including the Agency’s Large Scale Illegal Peat Extraction report from June 2025. The Agency has also noted on its website that it has carried out a significant number of site inspections and inspection reports can be viewed at www.epa.ie.
Question No. 167 answered with Question No. 163.
Question No. 168 answered with Question No. 163.
Public Procurement Contracts
Questions (169)
Aidan Farrelly
Question:169. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department or any bodies and agencies under his aegis use software and or products from a company (details supplied); and the duration and cost of the contract; and the services they avail of from the company. [33715/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department has not procured services from the supplier referenced in the Question.
The information sought in the question in relation to each agency or public body under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each of the State Bodies concerned and, as such, it is not information held by my Department. It is suggested that the Deputy contact the Bodies directly in relation to this matter. A list of these Bodies and their dedicated Oireachtas email addresses is attached.
Energy Policy
Questions (170)
Barry Heneghan
Question:170. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether his Department or any agency under its remit has examined the potential for a State supported bulk procurement or aggregated purchasing model for small-scale solar photovoltaic systems for households; if so, the findings of any such examination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33733/26]
View answerWritten answers
The Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) provides support to domestic and non-domestic applicants for renewable installations through grants provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
The grants administered by the SEAI assist homeowners in privately engaging contractors to install solar PV works. A declaration of works is provided by scheme participants to the SEAI, on which data concerning the brand and quantity of panels installed is recorded. All installers must meet the standards specified by the SEAI's Domestic Technical Standards and Specifications document and the Domestic Solar Photovoltaic Code of Practice for Installers.
Bulk purchasing of solar PV is supported under the Sustainable Energy Communities Programme, through Solar Meitheal. This is a community-led initiative based on the traditional Irish concept of neighbours working together. It enables groups of homeowners within a Sustainable Energy Community to come together and get quotations for solar PV. It also helps the community and homeowners to simplify organising the installations and achieve cost efficiencies through bulk purchasing.
The Sustainable Energy Community Programme supports communities to develop sustainable energy systems by improving energy efficiency, increasing the use of renewables and considering smart energy solutions. Under Solar Meitheal projects, homeowners are assisted through the provision of information on solar PV and guidance on SEAI grants.
Since the introduction of the MSS domestic grant in 2022, the scheme has gone strength to strength. 10,000 homes received support in 2022; followed by 22,214 in 202;3 and 28,000 in 2024. Last year, over 33,000 installations were supported; with over 7,000 homes supported so far in 2026 and applications of over 10,000 - a 60% increase year on year. This high level of demand and delivery indicates that the scheme is working well and that citizens recognise the significant benefits of investing in solar PV.
My Department and the SEAI will continue to ensure that grant schemes terms and conditions, eligibility criteria and rates are kept under review taking account of demand, research, innovation, evolving technology and other relevant factors.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce, was formed to identify, assess and implement measures to enhance energy affordability for households. The Taskforce is now leading the response to the energy shock, and the immediate associated energy affordability challenge. This work includes examining how to support increased uptake of home energy efficiency upgrades and continued development of the SEAI retrofit schemes in line with commitments in the Programme for Government.
Seirbhísí Dátheangacha
Questions (171)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Question:171. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment whether or not he is aware that the SEAI online application system does not permit applicants to enter the correct spelling of their names using a síneadh fada; if he will take action to correct this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33792/26]
View answerWritten answers
The management of the online grant application system, including ensuring the system is compliant with the provisions of the Official Languages (Amendment) Act 2021, is an operational matter for the SEAI.
The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly and in line with the SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is oireachtas@seai.ie.
Fisheries Protection
Questions (172)
John Connolly
Question:172. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to Parliamentary Question No. 68 of 18 March 2026, for an update on the engagement regarding the establishment by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine of a Food Vision Seafood Sector Group; whether representatives of the recreational angling and charter boat sectors have now been engaged with or consulted as part of this process; the current status and work programme of this group; whether any immediate supports, mitigation measures or transitional arrangements have been identified to date for charter boat operators impacted by the recreational pollack bag limit; when the group is expected to report or make recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33796/26]
View answerWritten answers
I remain conscious of the concerns of the recreational angling and charter boat sectors in relation to the conservation measures being introduced for the recreational fishing of pollack. I recently met with representatives of the sector, to hear directly their concerns regarding the introduction of the recreational bag limit for pollack and to discuss the impact this measure will have on their businesses and on coastal communities.
The introduction of this measure arises from scientific advice regarding the status of pollack and the need to support the long-term sustainability of the species. I fully recognise the importance of the recreational sea angling and charter boat sectors to coastal communities, and I am conscious of the challenges that this measure presents for operators in the sector. While there are currently no specific support or mitigation measures under consideration in relation to these measures, my Department will continue to engage with stakeholders in relation to implementation of recreational conservation measures.
Sustainable Energy Communities
Questions (173)
Barry Heneghan
Question:173. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the additional staffing and administrative resources allocated to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland to support delivery of the Traditional Homes Pilot in the context of increased demand for retrofit supports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33803/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department funds a number of grant schemes administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to support homeowners to improve energy efficiency, and to promote the adoption of renewable energy systems.
The SEAI launched a pilot scheme for the retrofit of traditionally built homes in September 2024. The initial pilot is limited to 100 dwellings with the objective of gathering data on the types of solutions set out in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage guidance, Improving Energy Efficiency in Traditional Buildings: Guidance for Specifiers and Installers.
The pilot scheme is available under the SEAI’s National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme which provides an end-to-end service for homeowners.
Under this pilot, upgrades are delivered through registered One Stop Shops, supported by a home-owner appointed qualified Traditional Building Professional (TBP). Grant supports are at the same level as those under the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme – as outlined on the SEAI website at: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/one-stop-shop
The administration and management of the schemes, as well as the assignment of staff to particular work areas, is an operational matter for the SEAI.
The SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that such queries can be addressed promptly and in line with the SEAI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is [oireachtas@seai.ie].
Question No. 174 answered with Question No. 163.
Climate Change Policy
Questions (175)
Jennifer Whitmore
Question:175. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the development of Ireland’s Social Climate Plan; whether a draft has been completed; when the plan is expected to be finalised and submitted to the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33900/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department is continuing to prepare Ireland's Social Climate Plan in close consultation with the European Commission and relevant Departmental stakeholders.
A draft of the Plan is currently in development. This draft will include a summary of submissions received from the public consultation on the Plan. Following a stakeholder event on the draft Plan later this year, co-hosted by my Department and the European Commission, a final Plan will be submitted to Government for approval. It will then be submitted to the European Commission for final approval.
Energy Policy
Questions (176)
Michael Cahill
Question:176. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to consider issues raised in correspondence (details supplied); the current and future plans to make Ireland more energy resilient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33922/26]
View answerWritten answers
Recent geopolitical events have shown that the best way to protect electricity consumers, protect our economy, and deliver a more stable and secure energy future is to increase our renewable electricity capacity. Countries with a greater share of renewables are better protected from the impact of volatility in the international fossil fuel markets.
We are seeing that here with recent high renewables limiting the impact of gas price increases on electricity prices and with an ESRI report published recently highlighting how our renewable generation increasingly acts as a hedge against higher wholesale electricity prices.
Ireland has reached a milestone of 8 GW of onshore renewable electricity generation, an increase of 5 GW since 2015. Onshore wind now stands at over 5 GW, a doubling since 2015. Provisional figures from EirGrid show that in 2025 nearly 41% of electricity grid demand was met with renewables, with that figure jumping to nearly 50% in both February and March this year.
Communities throughout the country support and are benefiting from renewable electricity projects, through investment and employment in local economies, the paying of commercial rates to Local Authorities, and Community Benefit Funds supporting sustainable community initiatives.
As a number of the topics raised are outside of the scope of the Department of Climate, Energy, and the Environment, I will ask my Government colleagues to respond directly to the Deputy on the other topics raised.
Question No. 177 answered with Question No. 163.
Departmental Staff
Questions (178)
Micheál Carrigy
Question:178. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of civil and public servants employed by his Department in each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [33946/26]
View answerWritten answers
I can confirm to the Deputy the number of Full Time Equivalents (FTEs) employed by my Department in each of the past ten years is as set out in the table below:
|
Year |
FTE |
|
2016 |
317.96 |
|
2017 |
373.10 |
|
2018 |
393.65 |
|
2019 |
383.20 |
|
2020 |
392.41 |
|
2021 |
440.11 |
|
2022 |
537.98 |
|
2023 |
641.81 |
|
2024 |
856.61 |
|
2025 |
668.54 |
|
2026 |
646.23 |
2016 to 2024 figures are sourced from the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation - Databank.
2026 figure is to up to Quarter 1.
Defence Forces
Questions (179, 181)
Emer Currie
Question:179. Deputy Emer Currie asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide a list of all capital projects, including Defence Forces infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of her Departments which have been completed on time and within budget in Dublin West in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33673/26]
View answerBarry Ward
Question:181. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide a list of all capital projects, including Defence Forces infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of her Department which have been completed on time and within budget in Dublin in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33820/26]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 181 together.
The capital expenditure for building works in military installations and barracks across the country for the last five years was some €170 million. This year the capital allocation stands at €69.5 million for capital investment with a further €13.5 million allocation for ongoing maintenance and running costs.
The information sought by the Deputy is as follows:
|
Year of Completion |
Project |
Project Cost Inc VAT |
|
2025 |
Casement Aerodrome: Modular Accommodation |
€2m |
|
2024 |
Casement Aerodrome: Main Technical Stores Refurbishment |
€0.9m |
|
2024 |
McKee Barracks: New MTF Former Chief of Staff House Upgrade |
€1.45m |
|
2024 |
McKee Barracks: Printing Press relocation |
€2.32m |
|
2024 |
Casement Aerodrome: Hangar 3 upgrade and new door |
€1.36m |
|
2024 |
McKee Barracks: Upgrade of Block F |
€17.57m |
|
2024 |
McKee Barracks: New Locker Block |
€1.83m |
|
2023 |
McKee Barracks: Refurbishment of East Wall Building |
€0.75m |
|
2023 |
Casement Aerodrome: Hangar 3 Roof-light replacement |
€0.3m |
|
2022 |
Casement Aerodrome: Runway Led Lights |
€0.47m |
|
2022 |
McKee Barracks: Refurb of Block H |
€6.58m |
|
2022 |
McKee Barracks: Guard Room Roof Upgrade |
€1.12m |
|
2022 |
Casement Aerodrome: Watermains upgrade |
€1.16m |
|
2021 |
Casement Aerodrome: Replace of standby generators at Casement Aerodrome |
€0.22m |
In addition, my Department also allocates funding each year to the Defence Forces for the maintenance, repair and upkeep of its building stock. This year a devolved budget of €13.5 million was assigned by my Department to the Defence Forces for these tasks. 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.
Public Procurement Contracts
Questions (180)
Aidan Farrelly
Question:180. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Defence if her Department or any bodies and agencies under her aegis use software and or products from a company (details supplied); and the duration and cost of the contract; and the services they avail of from the company. [33717/26]
View answerWritten answers
My Department, and the bodies and agencies under its aegis, do not use software, products or services provided by the company referred to by the Deputy.
Question No. 181 answered with Question No. 179.
Departmental Data
Questions (182)
Shane Moynihan
Question:182. Deputy Shane Moynihan asked the Minister for Defence the number of Acts for which her Department has responsibility; the number of these that have official texts available in both English and Irish; the number that are available in English only; the number that are available in Irish only; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33852/26]
View answerWritten answers
Rannóg an Aistriúcháin, which is a section of the Houses of the Oireachtas, provides official translations of the Acts of the Oireachtas. Rannóg an Aistriúcháin is addressing the translation of Acts on a rolling basis.
The tables below set out the principal legislation falling within the remit of my Department. It has been broken down into four broad categories:
(i) General Defence matters;
(ii) Defence Forces Pensions;
(iii) Civil Defence and;
(iv) the Irish Red Cross.
The table below specifies whether the Act in question has yet been translated, and where applicable, provides a link to the translation. Only 3 of the 61 Acts concerned (less than 6%) are not yet translated.
|
Act |
Translated to Irish |
Link to Irish translation |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 2024 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Bill 2024 |
|
Defence Forces (Evidence) Act 2022 |
No |
|
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 2021 |
No |
|
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 2015 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Bill 2015 |
|
Defence Forces (Second World War Amnesty and Immunity) Act 2013 |
Yes |
Defence Forces (Second World War Amnesty and Immunity) Bill 2012 |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 2011 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Bill 2011 |
|
Defence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 |
Yes |
Defence (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2009 |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 2007 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2006 |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 2006 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Bill 2006 |
|
Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004 |
No |
|
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 1998 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Bill 1998 |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 1990 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Act, 1990 |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 1987 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Act, 1987 |
|
Courts-Martial Appeals Act 1983 |
Yes |
Courts-Martial Appeals Act, 1983 |
|
Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1979 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) (No.2) Act, 1979 |
|
Defence (Amendment) Act 1979 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Act, 1979 |
|
Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1960 |
Yes |
Defence (Amendment) Act, 1960 |
|
Defence Act 1954 |
Yes |
Defence Act, 1954 |
Defence Forces Pensions Legislation
|
Act |
Translated to Irish |
Link to Irish translation |
|
Army Pensions Act 1980 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1980 |
|
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act 1975 |
Yes |
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act, 1975 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1973 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1973 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1971 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1971 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1968 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1968 |
|
Army Pensions (Increase) Act 1964 |
Yes |
Army Pensions (Increase) Act, 1964 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Increase) Act 1964 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Increase) Act, 1964 |
|
Army Pensions (Increase) Act 1962 |
Yes |
Army Pensions (Increase) Act, 1962 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1962 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act 1962 |
|
Army Pensions (Increase) Act 1961 |
Yes |
Army Pensions (Increase) Act, 1961 |
|
Army Pensions (No. 2) Act 1960 |
Yes |
Army Pensions (No. 2) Act, 1960 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Increase) Act 1960 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Increase) Act, 1960 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act 1960 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act, 1960 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1960 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1960 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1959 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1959 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1957 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1957 |
|
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act 1957 |
Yes |
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act, 1957 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1953 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1953 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act 1953 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act, 1953 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act 1949 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act, 1949 |
|
Army Pensions (Increase) Act 1949 |
Yes |
Army Pensions (Increase) Act, 1949 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1949 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1949 |
|
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act 1949 |
Yes |
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act, 1949 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1946 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1946 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1945 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) (No. 2) Act, 1945 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act 1945 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act, 1945 |
|
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act 1944 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act, 1944 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1943 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1943 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1941 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1941 |
|
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act 1938 |
Yes |
Defence Forces (Pensions) (Amendment) Act, 1938 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1937 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1937 |
|
Military Service Pensions Act 1934 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions Act, 1934 |
|
Defence Forces (Pensions) Act 1932 |
Yes |
Defence Forces (Pensions) Act, 1932 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1932 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1932 |
|
Military Service Pensions Act 1930 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions Act, 1930 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1927 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1927 |
|
Military Service Pensions Act 1925 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions Act, 1925 |
|
Military Service Pensions Act 1924 |
Yes |
Military Service Pensions Act, 1924 |
|
Army Pensions Act 1923 |
Yes |
Army Pensions Act, 1923 |
Civil Defence Legislation
|
Act |
Translated to Irish |
Link to Irish translation |
|
Civil Defence Act 2023 |
Yes |
Civil Defence Act 2023 |
Red Cross Legislation
|
Act |
Translated to Irish |
Link to Irish translation |
|
Red Cross Act 1938 |
Yes |
Red Cross Act, 1938 |
|
Red Cross Act 1944 |
Yes |
Red Cross Act, 1944 |
|
Red Cross Act 1954 |
Yes |
Red Cross Act, 1954 |
World Bank
Questions (183)
Aidan Farrelly
Question:183. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Defence if she will publish and or provide this deputy with a report, the EU-funded World Bank country consultation into Ireland's review of the strategic emergency management structures. [33896/26]
View answerWritten answers
Officials in my Department are currently working with the World Bank team to finalise the report on Ireland's Strategic Emergency Management structures and framework. Once the report is finalised, it will be considered by Government.
Departmental Projects
Questions (184)
Brian Brennan
Question:184. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Defence if she will provide a list of all capital projects, including Defence Forces infrastructure projects, delivered under the remit of her Department which have been completed on time and within budget in the Wicklow Wexford constituency in each of the past five years, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33933/26]
View answerWritten answers
The capital expenditure for building works in military installations and barracks across the country for the last five years was some €170 million.
This year the capital allocation stands at €69.5 million for capital investment with a further €13.5 million allocation for ongoing maintenance and running costs. The information sought by the Deputy is as follows:
|
Year |
Project |
Project Cost Inc VAT |
|
2022 |
Coolmoney Water and Waste Water Treatment |
€0.42m |
|
2024 |
Coolmoney - New Vehicle Garaging Facility |
€0.69m |
In addition, my Department also allocates funding each year to the Defence Forces for the maintenance, repair and upkeep of its building stock. This year a devolved budget of €13.5 million was assigned by my Department to the Defence Forces for these tasks. 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.
Departmental Staff
Questions (185)
Micheál Carrigy
Question:185. Deputy Micheál Carrigy asked the Minister for Defence the number of civil and public servants employed by her Department in each of the past ten years, in tabular form. [33948/26]
View answerWritten answers
The table below provides a breakdown of the number of civil and public servants employed by my Department in each of the past ten years. The number of Civil Servants includes 16 civil servants employed to work directly for the Defence Forces at a number of military installations. Among those are 2 at Assistant Secretary grade; the Head of Strategic HR and the Head of Transformation, both of whom are members of the Defence Forces Board.
|
Year |
Civil Servants |
Civilian Employees |
Permanent Defence Forces |
|
2015 |
360 |
491 |
9140 |
|
2016 |
369 |
487 |
9126 |
|
2017 |
359 |
469 |
9173 |
|
2018 |
360 |
430 |
8957 |
|
2019 |
376 |
451 |
8659 |
|
2020 |
374 |
456 |
8568 |
|
2021 |
392 |
450 |
8456 |
|
2022 |
398 |
424 |
7966 |
|
2023 |
418 |
437 |
7550 |
|
2024 |
458 |
433 |
7557 |
|
2025 |
499 |
424 |
7756 |
Transport Policy
Questions (186)
Grace Boland
Question:186. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Transport the role, if any, his Department plays in the funding, policy development or delivery of rural transport services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33497/26]
View answerWritten answers
As Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for Rural Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to rural public transport service provision; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations.
The Department of Transport is responsible for policy and overall funding for the strategic development and expansion of transport services.
Ireland’s public transport system is, however, at a pivotal point. Growing passenger demand, worsening urban congestion, and increasing reliance on public transport for commuting and essential travel highlight the need for reliable and sustainable services. At the same time, the public transport sector is currently experiencing a significant workforce shortage, particularly among drivers, mechanics, and craftworkers.
This challenge is already affecting service performance across the network. Bus operators are actively engaging with the NTA to identify and implement solutions to address these resource constraints. In this context, maintaining and strengthening the existing network is essential to safeguard the delivery of high-demand services to ensure they can operate effectively, while supporting longer-term reforms to enhance capacity, accessibility, and efficiency across the system.
The PSO funding allows the NTA to operate the Network on a sustainable basis and to prioritise any necessary changes in line with operational capacity and passenger needs.
The focus for 2026 is on stabilising the PSO position, ensuring services already in place can operate reliably and sustainably, and progressing improvements that are already in train. We are therefore focused on consolidating and strengthening the current network, while progressing improvements already underway, including Phase 7 BusConnects route adjustments and the new Mullingar town service. Within its allocated resources, the NTA will continue to prioritise operational improvements, where possible within its €940 million current allocation. Decisions on service changes or enhancements are a matter for the NTA, taking account of available funding, operational readiness, and driver availability.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally including the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan and TFI Local Link services.