Written Answers Nos. 175-197
175. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his Department or any bodies and agencies under its aegis use, or have in the past used, software and-or products from a company (details supplied); the duration and cost of the contract; and the services they avail of from the company. [35860/26]
View answerMy 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 set out at the following link:
176. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment when a grant will be available to support homeowners (details supplied) to bring their home to a BER B2 rating, as per the intention of the SEAI, which requires replacing single-glazing windows and wooden doors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35885/26]
View answerMy Department funds a number of schemes administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to maximise emissions reductions and deliver energy savings for the widest range of homeowners possible. These include SEAI part-funded schemes as well as free energy upgrades through the fully-funded Warmer Homes Scheme.
Under the National Residential Retrofit Plan, capital expenditure of over €1.7 billion has delivered over 257,500 home energy upgrades from 2019 to end Q1 2026.
In 2026, a budget allocation of €640 million has been provided for the SEAI's residential and community schemes, targeting over 73,000 home energy upgrades. This is up on the 58,000 home energy upgrades delivered in 2025.
The National Residential Retrofit Plan and new and enhanced measures announced in January 2026 have made retrofitting supports more accessible to households and allowed homeowners to undertake in one go a whole house retrofit to a BER B2 level or higher, or on a staggered basis over time, including allowing homeowners for the first time as of 2 March this year to access windows and doors grants as part of individual measures.
The latest data from the SEAI shows the new measures have generated greater interest among homeowners with 29,000 applications in Q1 2026, an almost doubling of applications year-on-year, including over 7,000 applications for windows and doors upgrades (new grants).
To qualify for the windows and doors grants, the building fabric must meet a specified minimum performance standard. Many homes will already meet this standard. Failing this, SEAI insulation grants are available to bring homes up to that standard. The application processes to follow are set out on the SEAI's website at: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/individual-grants.
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.
177. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide an update on the Electricity (Supply) (Amendment) Bill 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35893/26]
View answerThe Electricity (Supply) (Amendment)(No. 2) Bill 2025 is being progressed by my Department as part of a wider programme of work to strengthen the resilience of Ireland’s electricity network in the context of climate change and increasingly severe storm events. The overarching objective is to ensure that overhead electricity networks and forestry can co-exist in a manner that delivers a secure and reliable electricity supply.
Updated draft Heads of Bill are currently being revised following engagement with relevant stakeholders. My Department aims to submit these revised Heads of Bill to Government for approval to proceed to drafting in the coming weeks.
Pre-legislative scrutiny will follow thereafter with the aim of publishing the Bill the in a timely manner.
178. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for an update on the public consultation on the feasibility of transitioning the waste collection market from its current side-by-side licensing system to a franchise tendering system; when the report on this consultation will be published; if, in the meantime, he will be acting on some of the submissions in the consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35939/26]
View answerA Public Consultation on the feasibility of transitioning the waste collection market from its current side-by-side licensing system to a franchise tendering system was held in May 2025 and covered a range of issues including exploring measures to assist in achieving our EU recycling targets while developing a more resource efficient economy.
This consultation process was the first milestone in a broader independent year-long study to examine the waste collection market and identify how we can best support the achievement of EU recycling targets while also assessing service efficiency and the cost to consumers. The comprehensive year-long study included both public and targeted consultations, an assessment of the current market as well as environmental and economic modelling.
The study has recently concluded and its recommendations are currently under consideration with a view to informing the next iteration of the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy. Any future policy decisions in relation to waste collection and regulatory arrangements will be taken in line with the relevant frameworks and following appropriate consultation and consideration of the study’s findings.
It should be noted that under the Waste Management Act the statutory responsibility for decisions on waste collection arrangements ultimately rests with the Chief Executive of each local authority. Under section 60(3) of the Waste Management Act 1996 the Minister is precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to the performance by a local authority, in particular circumstances, of a statutory executive function vested in it.
179. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment for a timeline on the delivery of the Celtic Interconnector; if he will set out the delivery timeline; when construction work originally began on it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35961/26]
View answer180. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the 'technical issues' in relation to the delivery of the Celtic Interconnector that the Taoiseach was referring to in the Dáil Éireann on Tuesday, 28 April 2026 during Taoiseach's questions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35962/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 together.
The Celtic Interconnector is a major infrastructure initiative that will connect the electricity systems of Ireland and France, developed jointly by Eirgrid and its French equivalent, Réseau de Transport d’Electricité (RTE). It will enhance energy diversification, security of supply and market integration between Ireland and continental Europe. EirGrid has responsibility for the delivery of this project in collaboration with RTE.
Construction began in December 2023, with strong progress made on converter stations and cable installations. I am advised that terrestrial works including the completion of the converter station are scheduled for end 2026, while marine cable installation began in 2025 with a second campaign already begun in 2026.
However, the project does face challenges such as complex marine conditions, including weather delays, difficult seabed terrain and slower-than-expected progress in cable protection works. As a result, the timeline has been revised, with commissioning now expected at the end of 2028. It is my understanding that the technical issues referred to by the Taoiseach on 28 April relate to these emergent challenges.
Eirgrid are happy to provide detail more directly to Deputies at any time upon request and in this regard can be contacted at oireachtas@eirgrid.com. Eirgrid also issue a quarterly newsletter on progress and these can be found on their website, www.eirgrid.ie/celticinterconnector#newsletters.
I, and my officials, remain in close contact with Eirgrid on progress.
181. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate; Energy and the Environment if he will provide a breakdown of the €100 million surplus transferred by the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) from its 2024 levy income to the Climate Action Fund; and if he will outline the rationale for directing these funds (raised from a 2 cent per litre levy on petroleum products) towards climate initiatives rather than bolstering domestic oil and gas exploration or reducing the levy to ease fuel costs for Irish households and businesses. [35977/26]
View answerThe National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) is funded by a levy on the sale of oil products. Its revenue is used to fund the purchase and storage of Ireland’s strategic oil stocks in the event of a supply disruption, and other expenses of the Agency. NORA's Annual Report and Financial Statements for 2024 show that levy income for 2024 was €122,937,000.
The National Oil Reserves Agency (Amendment) and Provision of Central Treasury Services Act 2020 was enacted on 1 August 2020. This legislation facilitates the transfer of NORA Levy funds to the Climate Action Fund and is facilitated by my Department. €100 million was transferred by NORA to the Climate Action Fund in 2024 and received by the fund on 18 December that year.
In the same year, the Climate Action Fund recorded net expenditure of €99.7 million that included funding dedicated to peatland rehabilitation, an expansion of national EV charging infrastructure, the Schools Photovoltaic Programme, and the Community Climate Action Programme, among others.
Section 37B of the National Oil Reserves Agency Act, 2007 (as amended) is prescriptive in terms of what the Climate Action Fund can support. Section 37B of the Act provides that the Climate Action Fund may provide financial support for a broad range of innovative initiatives designed to accelerate Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Eligible projects include those aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, expanding the production and use of renewable energy, and improving energy efficiency across various sectors. The fund also supports nature-based solutions, alongside research in relation to reducing greenhouse gas emissions or increasing the production, or use of renewable energy.
The Government is deeply aware of the pressures placed on households and businesses by high energy costs. It is taking action to help households and businesses with these costs. In that regard, on 12 April, the Government agreed a €500 million package of fuel supports. This was in addition to the initial €250 million in targeted supports announced in March, which was already among the largest (per capita) intervention of any EU Member State.
Recognising the pressure that high energy prices are placing on Irish consumers and businesses. In the immediate term, Government has introduced a series of measures to reduce fuel prices, and further measures are under consideration by the National Energy Affordability Taskforce. The practical measures introduced by Government on 12 April (and running until 31 July) include:
• a reduction in excise on petrol, diesel and Marked Gas Oil (MGO). When taken with a reduction in the NORA Levy, that means 32 cent off a litre of diesel, 27 cent off a litre of petrol, and 7.4 cent off MGO
• a deferral of the planned increase in carbon tax — scheduled for 1 May — until the Budget
• an increase in the maximum repayment amount available under the Diesel Rebate Scheme for qualifying road haulage and bus transport operators from 7.5 cent to 12 cents per litre for Q1/Q2 2026.
Government has also announced a new €120 million Road Transporters Support Scheme, as well as supports for coach operators providing local link services. A €100 million Fuel Subsidy Support Scheme for farmers, agricultural contractors and fishers has also been announced.
This package of supports is in addition to the measures announced in March, which include:
• an expansion of the diesel rebate scheme, backdated to January
• an extension of the Fuel Allowance season to help the most vulnerable with the cost of home heating. This is in addition to the €5 per week increase and the extension of the eligibility rules announced in Budget 2026. Over 470,000 households are now supported by the Fuel Allowance
In relation to supporting domestic oil and gas exploration, consideration of policy options has due regard to all relevant factors including the wider economic context, global energy market activity, consumer and business impacts, legally binding climate commitments, and energy security including increased security through renewables and reduced dependence on imports.
As outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction licences for natural gas or oil. Holders of existing authorisations are not affected by these changes and may apply to progress their authorisations through the usual licensing stages.
182. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to the Committee of Public Accounts discussion on 7 May 2026, whether he has examined the security implications of one-third of Ireland's strategic oil reserves being held off-island in other EU member states; and if he will confirm whether the Government's continued opposition to domestic oil and gas exploration is compatible with claims that NORA provides an essential "insurance policy" for national energy security. [35978/26]
View answerThe National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve. I am satisfied that the NORA Board fulfils its remit in the oversight and approval of expenditure within the Agency, including expenditure on storage contracts for both on-island and off-island storage. Subject to value for money, NORA is charged with seeking to maximise the level of stock held on the island of Ireland and to that end, it is actively pursuing a number of possible opportunities for additional on-island storage.
In relation to domestic oil and gas exploration, as outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction licences of natural gas or oil. This commitment was made effective immediately upon the previous Government taking office in June 2020, and the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 placed this commitment on a statutory basis.
Holders of existing authorisations are not affected by these changes and may apply to progress their authorisations through the usual licensing stages.
183. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will state the current level of Ireland's oil reserves in days of consumption; the estimated cost of replenishment following the recent IEA-coordinated release; and whether he accepts that accelerating licensing for oil and gas exploration in Irish waters would reduce long-term reliance on imported stocks and the associated NORA levy burden on consumers. [35979/26]
View answerThe National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve. NORA reserves consist of petrol, diesel and kerosene. NORA’s oil is stored in various port locations throughout the island of Ireland, with the balance held in a small number of EU Member States. The locations at which NORA’s oil is stored are monitored under tight security in accordance with normal industry standards.
Member countries of the IEA agreed to initiate an action to release Strategic Oil Reserves to address the supply issues that are emerging on foot of the conflict in the Middle East. Ireland's contribution to an IEA 400-million-barrel release is approximately 1.6 million barrels. That level of contribution equates to approximately 10.5 days of supply and that process has been commenced by NORA.
At close of business of 12 May, NORA was holding the equivalent of 85 days of stock.
The estimated cost of replenishment following the recent IEA-coordinated release is an operational matter for NORA.
In relation to accelerating licensing for oil and gas exploration in Irish waters, as outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction licences of natural gas or oil. This commitment was made effective immediately upon the previous Government taking office in June 2020, and the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 placed this commitment on a statutory basis.
Holders of existing authorisations are not affected by these changes and may apply to progress their authorisations through the usual licensing stages.
184. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the projected decline in NORA levy income over the next five-ten years as fossil fuel consumption falls in line with net-zero targets; and if he will outline the contingency plans to maintain Ireland's 90-day oil reserve obligation without imposing higher costs on fuel users or further transfers from the levy to the Climate Action Fund. [35980/26]
View answerThe National Oil Reserves Agency’s (NORA) Strategic Plan 2026–2030 indicates that its stockholding obligation is expected to remain broadly stable over the lifetime of the plan, at approximately 1.6–1.7 million tonnes. While increased electrification of transport and heating should reduce oil demand, the decarbonization of the heavy freight sector and aviation are regarded as more challenging. These projections may, however, be influenced by evolving geopolitical and energy market conditions.
The profile of future NORA levy income will depend on a range of factors, including population and economic growth, energy efficiency measures, biofuel blending targets, fuel switching, and changes in transport patterns and consumer behaviour. For this reason, it is not possible at this stage to provide a definitive projection of levy income over a five-to-ten-year horizon.
Under EU law and Ireland’s obligations as a member of the International Energy Agency, NORA must maintain oil reserves equivalent to 90 days of net oil imports, except in circumstances where a stock release is authorised in response to an international or domestic energy supply emergency. In such cases, strategic reserves can be reduced on a temporary basis to support security of supply and market stability. As reserve requirements are directly linked to oil consumption and import levels, any reduction in levy income arising from lower fossil fuel use would also be expected to reduce the associated reserve holding costs. Accordingly, no contingency measures involving additional costs to fuel users or increased transfers from the levy to the Climate Action Fund are currently envisaged.
185. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide the latest assessment of Ireland's gas supply security given that NORA holds no strategic gas reserves; and whether the Government will now reconsider its moratorium on gas exploration in order to develop indigenous sources and reduce vulnerability to international price volatility and supply disruptions. [35981/26]
View answerThe current assessment of the Gulf situation in relation to gas, based on engagement through the IEA, European Commission, UK and GNI, is that there is currently not a risk to security of gas supply in Ireland. We receive around five-sixths of our natural gas from the UK, which has a diverse and robust supply. The primary impact has been on prices, which remain elevated and volatile.
In the longer-term, the Energy Security Review published by my Department in 2023 identified a Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve in the form of a floating storage and regasification unit as the most appropriate approach to ensure security of supply. The Government decided in March 2025 to proceed with the strategic reserve, which is not intended for commercial use and will be divested when no longer required to secure the Irish energy system.
As outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction licences of natural gas or oil. This came into effect immediately on the previous Government taking office in June 2020, and the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 placed this commitment on a statutory basis.
Holders of existing authorisations are not affected by these changes and may apply to progress their authorisations through the usual licensing stages.
186. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to evidence given to the Committee of Public Accounts on 7 May 2026 that storage costs account for 90% of NORA's €42 million operating expenditure, whether he is satisfied with the value for money achieved in current contracts, including those for off-island storage; and if he will confirm plans to increase on-island storage capacity through new domestic oil and gas infrastructure. [35982/26]
View answerThe National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve. Subject to value for money, NORA is charged with seeking to maximise the level of stock held on the island of Ireland and to that end, it is actively pursuing a number of possible opportunities for additional on-island storage.
In March 2025, I received Government approval to proceed with the development of a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve. The delivery of a strategic gas emergency reserve is critical to Ireland’s energy security as we continue to transition to indigenous, clean renewable energy. Crucially, the strategic gas emergency reserve will also ensure compliance with EU standards and regulation.
The emergency reserve will be in the form of a Floating Storage and Regassification Unit (FSRU), to be owned on behalf of the State by the system operator, Gas Networks Ireland (GNI). The operation of the strategic gas emergency reserve will be underpinned by policy and legislation that my Department is progressing as a matter of priority.
187. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the reason the Government reduced the NORA levy to 0.1 cent per litre in recent years for price relief yet continues to support policies that block domestic oil and gas exploration, thereby perpetuating Ireland's dependence on imported petroleum products and the associated levy costs passed on to motorists, farmers and hauliers. [35983/26]
View answer190. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment further to the Committee of Public Accounts hearing on 7 May 2026 regarding NORA's role in energy security, whether he will now bring forward a comprehensive policy statement confirming that the development of Ireland's oil and gas resources is essential to maintaining strategic reserves, lowering the levy burden and ensuring long-term energy independence in the face of ongoing geopolitical risks. [35986/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 187 and 190 together.
The National Oil Reserves Agency (Amendment) Bill 2026 provides for a reduction in the Petroleum Product Levy, more commonly known as the NORA Levy. The NORA Levy is a charge of 2 cent per litre applied to most petroleum products sold in the market, for the purpose of funding the operations of the National Oil Reserves Agency and the Climate Action Fund. The levy reduction to a nominal amount came into effect on 1 April 2026 and will remain in place until 31 July 2026. This levy reduction assists in easing the financial impact of energy price inflation on consumers.
As outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction of natural gas or oil. This commitment was made effective immediately upon the previous Government taking office in June 2020, and the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 placed this commitment on a statutory basis.
Holders of existing authorisations are not affected by these changes and may apply to progress their authorisations through the usual licensing stages.
188. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the additional administration costs to NORA of implementing the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation and ReFuelEU Aviation regulations; and whether he accepts that these obligations, combined with the existing NORA levy, represent a double burden on consumers that could be mitigated by permitting greater domestic oil and gas production. [35984/26]
View answerThe Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) implements Article 25.1 of the European Renewable Energy Directive placing a statutory obligation on fuel suppliers to ensure a minimum proportion of renewable fuel in all road transport petroleum products placed on the market in Ireland. The Renewable Transport Fuel Levy provided for under section 44 of the NORA Act 2007 is a nominal amount payable on the sales of all renewable transport fuels in Ireland. It is already set at €0.001 per litre, therefore was not considered under the recent temporary fuel measures announced by Government.
The ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation aims to promote the deployment of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) within the EU while ensuring a level playing field for airlines and fuel suppliers. NORA is designated as the competent authority responsible for the application of the Regulation on fuel suppliers for which Ireland is the responsible Member State pursuant to the provisions set out in the Regulation.
NORA estimate that the annual administrative cost of implementing these schemes is in the region of €1m.
The cost of compliance with the RTFO and the obligations under ReFuelEU Aviation Regulations would not be altered by permitting greater domestic oil and gas production as referenced by the Deputy.
As outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction licences of natural gas or oil. This commitment was made effective immediately upon the previous Government taking office in June 2020, and the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 placed this commitment on a statutory basis.
189. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will publish the criteria used to award NORA storage contracts and the savings achieved by competitive bidding; and whether the Government has conducted any analysis of the potential reduction in NORA's storage expenditure that could be achieved if Ireland developed its own indigenous oil and gas resources instead of relying on foreign storage facilities. [35985/26]
View answerThe criteria used to award the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) storage contracts and the savings achieved by competitive bidding are an operational matter for NORA.
NORA has operational responsibility for the day-to-day management of the State’s Strategic Oil Reserve. Subject to value for money, NORA is charged with seeking to maximise the level of stock held on the island of Ireland and to that end, it is actively pursuing a number of possible opportunities for additional on-island storage.
In relation to the development of Ireland's own indigenous oil and gas resources, as outlined in the 2022 Policy Statement on Petroleum Exploration and Production, my Department no longer accepts new applications for petroleum authorisations for the exploration and extraction licences of natural gas or oil. This commitment was made effective immediately upon the previous Government taking office in June 2020, and the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 placed this commitment on a statutory basis.
Holders of existing authorisations are not affected by these changes and may apply to progress their authorisations through the usual licensing stages.
191. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment to provide a copy of the recent correspondence issued by the Minister for Public Expenditure; National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to his Department referred to in media reports (details supplied); if he will provide details of the percentage reduction(s) in spending in his Department referenced in the correspondence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36400/26]
View answerThe recent correspondence referred to by the Deputy relates to a levy which will apply to the 2027 current provision for my Department, based on its 2026 current allocation as set out in the Revised Estimates Volume (REV). The basis for the calculation of the levy across Departments is a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation.
I do not believe that it is appropriate to release the letter at this time as the specific areas against which the levy will be applied have yet to be determined and will form part of my Department’s preparation for Budget 2027.
192. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if he will provide a breakdown of spending on advertising that was funded or overseen by his Department, and bodies under its aegis, in each of the past five years, including a breakdown by medium, that is, radio, television and social media, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36484/26]
View answerMy Department uses advertising to promote a range of services, supports and initiatives for people and communities across Ireland.
As the media landscape has evolved over the past number of years, advertising expenditure has grown to address the diverse needs of different audiences including costs associated with achieving national reach for important public messages. For example, my Department has run a significant national campaign on reducing energy use in 2022, 2023 and 2024. This “reduce your use” campaign was designed to assist every household in Ireland in dealing with rising energy costs and supporting positive behaviour change. In recent years, advertising expenditure has also grown to ensure that we are meeting our Irish language advertising requirements under the Official Languages (Amendment) Act 2021.
The majority of Department advertising is procured via a media buying agency, and the weighting assigned to different media platforms is determined by target audience, best practice and securing value for money.
The table below sets out overall expenditure in my Department since 2020. 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.
|
Year |
Spend* |
|
2021 |
€516,668.44 |
|
2022 |
€3,828,081.00 |
|
2023 |
€3,764,527.50 |
|
2024 |
€2,519,386.01 |
|
2025 |
€679,013.28** |
|
2026 |
€90,888.27** |
* Following the transfer of the Communications function to another Department in 2025, figures for that year and earlier may vary slightly, as advertising is now reported by the Departments that incorporated the function.
** A number of campaigns span 2025-2026, final figures will be confirmed once they are completed.
The table below comprises radio/TV/social media spend for major campaigns over this period. Other advertising channels utilised over this period include print, out of home (billboards) and digital display.
193. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Defence if her Department or any bodies and agencies under its aegis use, or have in the past used, software and-or products from a company (details supplied); the duration and cost of the contract; and the services they avail of from the company. [35862/26]
View answerMy 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.
194. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Defence the number of retired Defence Force personnel who currently have their pension entitlement abated due to being employed in other sectors of the public sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35906/26]
View answerThe abatement of public service pensions is provided for under section 52 of the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and other Provisions) Act 2012.
This legislation is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitisation, and his Department has provided guidelines on the application of abatement in accordance with the legislation.
The effective operation of the system of abatement depends upon notification by the second/new Public Service Body employer and/or the individual ex-Defence Forces member to the pension paying authority (i.e.: the Department of Defence's Pensions Administration) that they have taken up employment again within the public sector.
Once my Department is informed that a relevant Defence Forces pensioner has been re-employed in a relevant public service position, their pension is reviewed and, if appropriate, the abatement of their pension will be commenced immediately, in line with the legislative requirements.
As of end April 2026, there were over 11,000 former members of the Permanent Defence Force in receipt of a Defence Forces occupational pension. Of these, there are currently 140 whose pensions are reduced or ceased under the 2012 Act.
As the Deputy may be aware, the principle of public service pension abatement is long-standing within the rules of various public service pension schemes. It applies across all of the public service, including the Permanent Defence Force. It does not apply in relation to employment with the commercial state bodies or where public service pensioners are employed outside the public service. Abatement policy remains a key component of Public Service pension policy and addresses valid concerns about simultaneous payment of both pension and salary in the Public Service.
195. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence the current status of the proposed procurement of medium-lift or super medium-lift helicopters as recommended by the Commission on the Future of the Defence Forces; whether a procurement process has commenced or is planned; the estimated timeline for any such acquisition programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36007/26]
View answerMy priority as Minister for Defence is to ensure that the operational capability of the Air Corps, Army, and Naval Service is maintained and developed. Equipment priorities for the Air Corps, Army, and Naval Service are considered in the context of the established capability development and Equipment Development Planning (EDP) processes.
Capital investment in aircraft continues with the placing of the following contracts in recent years:
• Two new Airbus C-295 in Maritime Patrol Aircraft delivered in 2023.
• One new Airbus C-295 in a Military Transport configuration. This aircraft was delivered in October 2025.
• One new Dassault Falcon 6X Strategic Reach Aircraft. This aircraft was delivered in December 2025.
• Four Airbus H145M Light Utility Multi-Role Helicopters. These aircraft are in production with phased delivery planned in 2027 and 2028.
Specifically concerning the procurement of future Air Corps assets, the rolling Equipment Development Plan (EDP) encompasses a programme of sustained equipment procurement/acquisition across the Air Corps, Army, and Naval Service as identified and prioritised in the Strategic Framework, the recently updated Detailed Implementation Plan for the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces.
This is part of the ambitious programme of work to move to Level of Ambition 2 (LOA2) and will ensure that the Air Corps and the wider Defence Forces have the major equipment platforms, ancillary equipment and force protection equipment required to carry out their important roles both at home and overseas.
Capital funding of €1.7 billion has been allocated to Defence under the National Development Plan for the period 2026-2030. The funding represents an increase of €600 million or 55% on the previous baseline figure of €1.1 billion.
Future Air Corps projects identified within these planning processes include:
• The procurement of a fleet of super-medium helicopters to replace the current fleet of AW-139 medium helicopters;
• The replacement of the Pilatus PC-9M fleet of fixed-wing training aircraft.
Both of these projects are underway and are in the assessment phase in accordance with the requirements of the Infrastructure Guidelines.
I am satisfied that the ongoing programme of prioritised sustained investment in upgrading and enhancing Air Corps capabilities will ensure that the Defence Forces continue to be suitably equipped to fulfil all roles assigned by Government.
196. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the acquisition of the four Airbus H145 helicopters is intended by the Department to satisfy, replace, defer, or partially fulfil the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of the Defence Forces relating to medium-lift helicopter capability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36008/26]
View answer197. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether alternative rotary-wing aircraft platforms, including lower-cost light utility helicopter configurations, were evaluated during the procurement process for the four Airbus H145 helicopters; whether comparative operational, training, maintenance, lifecycle, and value-for-money assessments were conducted between aircraft categories; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36014/26]
View answer198. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence the primary operational rationale underpinning the selection of the Airbus H145 platform for the Air Corps; whether the procurement was principally intended to address pilot training, utility transport, air ambulance support, tactical deployment, maritime support, or multi-role operational capability requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36015/26]
View answer199. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether a cost-benefit analysis was conducted comparing the acquisition of a smaller number of higher-capability helicopters versus a larger number of lower-cost rotary-wing aircraft for Air Corps operational and training requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36016/26]
View answer200. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the Department conducted a formal operational requirements analysis prior to the acquisition of the Airbus H145 helicopters for the Air Corps; whether alternative aircraft categories or configurations were assessed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36212/26]
View answer201. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the lifecycle operating costs, maintenance costs, and projected service-life costs associated with the Airbus H145 helicopters were independently assessed prior to procurement approval; whether comparative modelling was undertaken against alternative rotary-wing platforms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36213/26]
View answer202. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the Government considered the acquisition of a larger number of lower-cost helicopters in place of a smaller number of higher-capability aircraft for pilot training, utility support, and general Air Corps operational requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36214/26]
View answer203. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the acquisition of the Airbus H145 helicopters forms part of a wider long-term rotary-wing fleet modernisation strategy for the Air Corps; whether additional helicopter acquisitions remain planned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36215/26]
View answer204. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether her Department has conducted any assessment of the strategic implications arising from dependence upon foreign-origin mission systems, avionics, software, or specialist operational components in relation to the Airbus H145 fleet; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36216/26]
View answer205. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the Airbus H145 helicopters procured for the Air Corps are intended solely for pilot training and utility support purposes, or whether the aircraft are also intended for operational, tactical, security, force-protection, or armed support roles; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36217/26]
View answer206. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether any weapons systems, weapons mounts, weapons integration capability, force-protection systems, or armed operational configurations have been procured, approved, planned, or considered in connection with the Airbus H145 helicopters acquired for the Air Corps; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36218/26]
View answer207. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether Cabinet approval was specifically sought in relation to any armed operational capability, weapons integration capability, or tactical mission configuration associated with the Airbus H145 helicopters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36219/26]
View answer208. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether her Department has developed an operational doctrine, mission profile framework, or strategic capability assessment relating to the intended operational use of the Airbus H145 helicopters within the Air Corps; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36220/26]
View answer209. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the Airbus H145 helicopters acquired for the Air Corps are capable of being configured for armed operations, tactical deployment, counter-terrorism support, force protection, or special operations support; whether such capabilities formed part of the procurement assessment process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36221/26]
View answer210. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether any review has been conducted into the consistency of current State aviation procurement policy across the Defence Forces, Air Corps, and Garda Air Support Unit, including procurement standards, certification arrangements, operational oversight, and compliance with stated Government procurement policies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36226/26]
View answer211. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Defence whether the Department of Defence or Air Corps will assume responsibility for airworthiness oversight, operational certification, or regulatory assurance relating to the Airbus H145 helicopters procured for use by the Garda Air Support Unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36229/26]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 196 to 211, inclusive, together.
A contract is in place for the delivery of four aircraft to provide a modern training and light-utility helicopter capability for the Air Corps. The procurement was conducted in accordance with EU Defence and Security procurement legislation, the Public Spending Code and the Infrastructure Guidelines, and was underpinned by legal advice from the Attorney General.
The four Airbus H145M helicopters will replace the ageing EC-135 fleet, which has reached the end of its useful service life. The total capital value of the contract is €91.7 million, exclusive of VAT.
The decision to procure the H145M followed a comprehensive Strategic Assessment Review, Preliminary Business Case and Final Business Case process, as required under the Public Spending Code. This process included a detailed operational requirements analysis and an options assessment examining how identified capability requirements could best be met in a sustainable and value-for-money manner. This assessment considered pilot training requirements, operational roles, interoperability, fleet resilience, and projected lifecycle operating, maintenance and service-life costs.
The CoDF Report recommended that, within the scope of LOA2, two additional medium lift rotary wing aircraft (AW-139) should be acquired, increasing the current medium lift fleet to eight helicopters. However, the Commission also stated that:
“in making these recommendations the Commission acknowledges that future defence planners may, in their detailed analysis, assess that the same effect can be delivered by different methods and as such the specific equipment recommendations outlined are intended to be indicative rather than prescriptive once the recommended capability requirement is met.”
In this instance, the Department and the Defence Forces examined whether the capability identified in the Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces could best be delivered through the acquisition of additional medium-lift helicopters or through the procurement of a greater number of modern military light-utility helicopters. In this context, analysis was undertaken on whether resources that might otherwise have been allocated to the acquisition of two additional AW-139 aircraft could more effectively be invested in procuring four H145M light-utility helicopters. The H145M aircraft was assessed as providing enhanced flexibility across training, utility transport, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, maritime support and general operational taskings.
The acquisition of the H145M helicopters forms part of a wider programme of rotary-wing fleet modernisation. Work is also underway, in accordance with the Infrastructure Guidelines and the recommendation within the CoDF Report and the updated Detailed Implementation Plan to assess the future Super Medium Lift helicopter capability and progress the project to replace the current AW-139 fleet medium lift capability.
The H145M is a military-configured aircraft intended to support a range of military roles consistent with Government policy and the operational taskings of the Defence Forces. The procurement contract includes approved weapon mounts and associated munitions, providing the aircraft with an enhanced force-protection and defensive capability. These elements were considered as part of the overall procurement approval process and no separate or specific Cabinet decision was required in respect of weapons integration or armed configuration. The aircraft are also equipped with defensive aide systems designed to enhance survivability. Any operational deployment of such capabilities is a matter for the military authorities and is subject to Government policy and appropriate oversight arrangements.
The Department also had regard, as part of normal Defence procurement governance, to issues relating to reliance on foreign-origin mission systems, avionics, software and specialist components. Ireland does not possess a large domestic defence aerospace industry and it is therefore necessary that Defence Forces equipment platforms are procured from international suppliers. In this context, procurement arrangements include appropriate contractual, logistical safeguards to support assured supply, sustainability and operational resilience.
In relation to Garda aviation, I am advised that An Garda Síochána acquired two Airbus H145 helicopters for operation by the Garda Air Support Unit. While these aircraft are the property of the Garda Commissioner and procurement oversight rests with the Department of Justice, they are operated on the Military Aviation Register by Air Corps personnel. Airworthiness oversight and operational certification for such aircraft are exercised through established Air Corps Military Aviation Regulatory arrangements. The Air Corps and An Garda Síochána operate within their own statutory, regulatory and governance framework. All relevant public bodies remain subject to national and EU public procurement rules and Government policy on value for money, transparency and accountability.
I am satisfied that the procurement of the Airbus H145M helicopters forms part of an ongoing programme to modernise and enhance the operational capabilities of the Air Corps, and to support the Defence Forces in carrying out the roles as assigned by Government.
