Written Answers Nos. 40-60
40. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; the reason for the delay in issuing said passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25619/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra42. Deputy James Lawless asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if a passport application for a person (details supplied) will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25623/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra43. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to review a passport application and expedite same (details supplied); and if he will provide an update on the matter. [25662/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 40, 42 and 43 together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputies have enquired, the Passport Service has issued passports to the applicants.
41. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will consider amending the rules to allow the issuing of passports of shorter durations in view of some extenuating circumstances (details supplied). [25621/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe standard Irish passport issued to adults is valid for 10 years. Passport fees were last updated in June 2019 and set out in Statutory Instrument No. 259/2019 - Diplomatic and Consular Fees. At that time the fee for adult passports applied for through the Passport Online service was reduced from €80 to €75. The fee for passports applied for through postal service providers remained at €80.
In 2023 the Passport Service received 11,272 applications from applicants aged 80 years or older. Of these, 10,062 were online applications and 1,210 were Post Passport paper applications.
Given that the production cost of a passport is the same, irrespective of validity, and that any shortfall in revenue or additional costs would have to be met by the taxpayer, there are no plans to offer the option of a passport with a shorter period of validity at a reduced cost.
I am satisfied that, at a cost of €75 for an online application, which breaks down to €7.50 per year, the Irish passport fee compares favourably with the services offered elsewhere.
44. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of formal and informal Council of the European Union meetings that have been held since 27 June 2020 under the remit of his Department; and the number of formal and informal meetings, respectively held virtually and the corresponding number held in person; if he or his predecessor attended each meeting, or a Minister of State or ambassador represented the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25670/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Foreign Affairs has specific responsibility for engagement with:
• The Foreign Affairs Council (FAC);
• The General Affairs Council (GAC); and
• The Foreign Affairs Council (Development) (FAC Dev).
Since 27 June 2020, there have been a total of 60 FAC meetings, 46 GAC meetings, and 15 FAC (Dev) meetings. The information requested on format and attendance is provided in tabular form below.
Foreign Affairs Council
|
Date of meeting |
Formal or Informal |
Virtual or In Person |
Government representative(s) |
|
13/07/2020 |
Formal |
In person |
Permanent Representative, Ambassador Tom Hanney and PSC Ambassador Noel White |
|
14/08/2020 |
Formal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
27-28-08/2020 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Ambassador Nicholas O’Brien |
|
21/09/2020 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
12/10/2020 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
19/11/2020 |
Formal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
07/12/2020 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
25/01/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
22/02/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
15/03/2021 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
22/03/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
19/04/2021 |
Informal |
Virtual conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
10/05/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
18/05/2021 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
27/05/2021 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
21/06/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
12/07/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
17/08/2021 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
2-3/09/2021 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
18/10/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
15/11/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
13/12/2021 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
13-14/01/2022 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
24/01/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
21/02/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
22/02/2022 |
Informal |
In person |
Ambassador Neil Burgess |
|
25/02/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
27/02/2022 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
04/03/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
21/03/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
11/04/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
16/05/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
20/06/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
18/07/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
31/08/2022 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
17/10/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
14/11/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
12/12/2022 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD |
|
23/01/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
20/02/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
20/03/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
24/04/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
12/05/2023 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
22/05/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
26/06/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
20/07/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
PSC Ambassador Cáit Moran |
|
31/08/2023 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
10/10/2023 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
23/10/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
13/11/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
20/11/2023 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
11/12/2023 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
22/01/2024 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
3-4/02/2024 |
Informal (Gymnich) |
In person |
Permanent Representative, Ambassador Aingeal O’Donoghue |
|
19/02/2024 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
18/03/2024 |
Formal |
In person |
Permanent Representative Ambassador Aingeal O’Donoghue |
|
16/04/2024 |
Informal |
Virtual Conference of Foreign Affairs Ministers |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
22/04/2024 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
|
27/05/2024 |
Formal |
In person |
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Micheál Martin TD |
General Affairs Council
|
Date of meeting |
Virtual or in-person |
Formal or informal |
Government representative(s) |
|
15/07/2020 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
22/09/2020 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
13/10/2020 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Simon Coveney TD, and Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
17/11/2020 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
08/12/2020 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
18/01/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
23/02/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
23/03/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
20/04/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
11/05/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
17/05/2021 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
22/06/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
22-23/07/2021 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
21/09/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
19/10/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
23/11/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
14/12/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
25/01/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
22/02/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
3-4/03/2022 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
22/03/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
12/04/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
23/05/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
21/06/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
14-15/07/2022 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
20/09/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
18/10/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
18/11/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Thomas Byrne TD |
|
13/12/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Permanent Representative Tom Hanney |
|
06/02/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
21/02/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
21/03/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
30/05/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
21-22/06/2023 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
27/06/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
10/07/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
19/09/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
27-28/09/2023 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
24/10/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
15/11/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
12/12/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Permanent Representative Aingeal O’Donoghue |
|
29/01/2024 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
20/02/2024 |
In-person |
Formal |
Permanent Representative Aingeal O’Donoghue |
|
19/03/2024 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Mr Peter Burke TD |
|
29-30/04/2024 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Ms Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD |
|
21/05/2024 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for European Affairs, Ms Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD |
Foreign Affairs Council (Development)
|
Date of meeting |
Virtual or in-person |
Formal or informal |
Government representative(s) |
|
29/09/2020 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
23/11/2020 |
Virtual |
Formal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
29/04/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
14/06/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
11/10/2021 |
Virtual |
Informal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
19/11/2021 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
6-7/03/2022 |
In-person |
Informal |
Director General Ruairí De Búrca |
|
20/05/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Permanent Representative Tom Hanney |
|
28/11/2022 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Mr Colm Brophy TD |
|
8-9/03/2023 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Mr Seán Fleming TD |
|
04/05/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Mr Seán Fleming TD |
|
4-5/09/2023 |
In-person |
Informal |
Director General Michael Gaffey |
|
21/11/2023 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Mr Seán Fleming TD |
|
12/02/2024 |
In-person |
Informal |
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Mr Seán Fleming TD |
|
07/05/2024 |
In-person |
Formal |
Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Mr Seán Fleming TD |
45. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department and each body and agency under the remit of his Department has achieved the Government-mandated public sector remote working target of 20%; when this was achieved in each instance; the current percentage of staff working remotely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25688/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Foreign Affairs is committed to ensuring a positive and productive working environment, and to sustaining strong standards of performance and delivery on our high level goals for the people we serve at home and abroad.
In this context, my Department recognises the shift to flexible and remote working that has taken place in Ireland and globally over the last number of years and the opportunities that advances in technology present in terms of how and where we perform work. My Department’s Blended Working at HQ policy was launched in September 2022. It is framed within the context of the broader Civil Service Policy on Blended Working, which when published in March 2022 set an initial blended working target of at least 20%. A separate Blended Working Framework was established for DFA diplomatic missions abroad in early 2023.
The initial Civil Service target was met by DFA in September 2022. The proportion of civil servants that had approved blended working arrangements at HQ offices on the NSSO system stood at 46% at the beginning of June 2024, and I expect that this percentage will rise further.
While acknowledging that blended working may not be suitable in all cases, both from personal and organisational perspectives, the Department is committed to expanding available options while taking account of business needs.
There are no bodies or agencies under the remit of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
46. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has any plans to provide extra supports to students from Gaza, in light of the awful situation they and their families have endured and continue to face in Palestine (details supplied); if he will take extra steps to further support these students; the measures he can take in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25744/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Ireland Fellows Programme is an important programme of the Department of Foreign Affairs, to build the capacity of graduate students from developing countries through participation in Masters courses at Higher Education Institutions in Ireland. It is managed for the Department by the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS).
There are currently 22 Fellows from the Occupied Palestinian Territory participating in the Programme for the academic year 2023-24, 11 of them from Gaza. ICOS is their main point of contact on practical arrangements for their stay in Ireland. This is a particularly stressful time for the students from Gaza and, in consultation with the Department, ICOS have supported Gazan Fellows to adjust their study programmes in response to their difficult circumstances. This support is ongoing. In addition, Department officials are in direct contact with each of the Gazan Fellows to discuss their situation. With ICOS, officials will provide advice on issues, including the procedures to apply for the Third Level Graduate Programme, also known as the Stay Back Visa.
47. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs to provide an update on a foreign birth register application (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25766/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is responsible for processing Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) applications for people who are born abroad and claim Irish citizenship through a grandparent born in Ireland or through a parent who has claimed citizenship also through FBR, Naturalisation or Post Nuptial Citizenship.
FBR applications are currently being processed within the normal turnaround time of 9 months from receipt of supporting documents. Applications which require further supporting documents will take longer to process.
Foreign Birth Registration, by its nature, is a detailed and complex process, often involving official documentation relating to three generations and issued by several jurisdictions. Such documents take considerable time to validate.
The Passport Service Customer Service Hub has dedicated agents to deal with Foreign Birth Registration application queries. The contact number for urgent Foreign Birth Registration queries is +353 1 568 3331. This number is also available on the Department's website.
With regard to the specific Foreign Birth Registration (FBR) application about which the Deputy has enquired, supporting documents were received for the application on 15 September 2023. These documents are currently being processed, and a member of the FBR team will be in contact with the applicant in due course.
48. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of formal and informal Council of the European Union meetings that have been held since 27 June 2020 under the remit of his Department; and the number of formal and informal meetings, respectively held virtually and the corresponding number held in person; if he or his predecessor attended each meeting, or a Minister of State or ambassador represented the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25668/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraOfficials in my Department are compiling the information sought by the Deputy and will forward a response shortly.
49. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department and each body and agency under the remit of his Department has achieved the Government-mandated public sector remote working target of 20%; when this was achieved in each instance; the current percentage of staff working remotely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25686/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm to the Deputy that my Department achieved the Government-mandated public sector remote working target of 20% on 18 July 2023.
All staff in my Department were working remotely full-time from late March 2020 due to the pandemic with the transition to remote/blended working starting on a phased basis from 21 March 2022.
Of the 692 staff members in my Department, 96% currently avail of Blended Working.
I will ask the bodies under the aegis of my Department to respond to the Deputy's question directly.
50. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the number of formal and informal Council of the European Union meetings that have been held since 27 June 2020 under the remit of his Department; and the number of formal and informal meetings, respectively held virtually and the corresponding number held in person; if he or his predecessor attended each meeting, or a Minister of State or ambassador represented the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25665/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDuring each European Union Presidency, both formal and informal meetings of Defence Ministers are held within the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union. There is no separate Defence Ministers' Council within the Council of the European Union.
In the period from 27 June 2020 to date, a total of twenty EU Defence ministerial meetings have taken place. Of these, ten were Foreign Affairs Council in Defence configuration (FAC Defence) meetings, eight were Informal Meetings of EU Ministers for Defence and two were Jumbo FAC Meetings which are ordinarily attended by both Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Ministers for Defence. From available records, only two of these meetings were held virtually, twelve EU Defence Ministerial meetings were attended either by myself or my predecessor, one was attended at Minister of State level and a further seven were attended at Ambassador level.
51. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if his Department and each body and agency under the remit of his Department has achieved the Government-mandated public sector remote working target of 20%; when this was achieved in each instance; the current percentage of staff working remotely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25683/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with the Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service Organisations, my Department launched its Blended Working Policy in late October 2022. Approximately 85% of Department of Defence staff are currently availing of blended working, and are required to attend the office on a minimum of 2 specific days each week as agreed with their manager.
The only State body currently under the aegis of my Department is the Army Pensions Board which is an independent statutory body, established under the Army Pensions Act 1927. The secretary to the Board is provided from my Department’s staff and avails of blended working as per the arrangements above.
52. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport when work to repair a bridge in County Kerry (details supplied) will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25624/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from Councils' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is a matter for the local authority.
My Department provides grant assistance to local authorities under the Regional and Local Road Grant Programme for a number of targeted programmes, including the Bridge Rehabilitation Programme. Applications are sought each year from local authorities under this programme for consideration for funding in the subsequent year.
In the 2024 allocations, Kerry County Council received an allocation of €195,000 for the bridge in an Inse Bhui, Maistir Gaoithe, Co. Kerry and approval has been given to the Council to proceed with the works.
As Kerry County Council is responsible for maintaining and improving its regional and local roads, it is the Council's responsibility to determine its priorities and work programme while taking account of the funding provided from grant allocations and from the Council's own resources.
53. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport to examine an issue (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25733/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport.
The issue raised by the Deputy in relation to the method of payment accepted for food, tea, and coffee on trains is a matter for Irish Rail. Therefore, I have referred the Deputy's question to Irish Rail for direct response to the Deputy.
Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
54. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Transport to examine an issue (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25618/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the NTA’s responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's request to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
55. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Iompair an bhfuil sé ar an eolas nach bhfuil seirbhís trí Ghaeilge nó suíomh idirlíon trí Ghaeilge fiú ag an Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre, agus go ndéanann an tSeirbhís Náisiúnta um Cheadúnais Tiomána teagmháil go huathoibríoch le custaiméirí i mBéarla amháin, agus an bhfuil sé i gceist aige an tÚdarás agus an tSeirbhís a fhorordú faoi chúram an Choimisinéara Teanga de réir Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla, 2003. [25626/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDe réir an Achta fán Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre, 2006, is ar an Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre (an RSA) atá an fhreagracht reachtúil as gach gné den tSeirbhís Náisiúnta um Cheadúnas Tiomána (NDLS). Tá mé tar éis ceist an Teachta a chur faoi bhráid an RSA dá bhrí sin le go bhféadfaidh siadsan freagra díreach a thabhairt dó. D’iarrfainn ar an Teachta teagmháil a dhéanamh le m’oifig mura mbeidh freagra faighte aige laistigh de 10 lá.
56. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Iompair céard is líon na gcigirí tiomána atá in ann scrúduithe a reáchtáil trí mheán na Gaeilge ag an Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre ar fud an stáit, agus chun briseadh síos de réir gach limistéir Gaeltachta a iarraidh. [25627/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraDe réir an Achta fán Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre, 2006, is ar an Údarás um Shábháilteacht ar Bhóithre (an RSA) atá an fhreagracht reachtúil as gach gné den tSeirbhís Náisiúnta Tástála Tiomána.Tá mé tar éis ceist an Teachta a chur faoi bhráid an RSA dá bhrí sin le go bhféadfaidh siadsan freagra díreach a thabhairt dó. D’iarrfainn ar an Teachta teagmháil a dhéanamh le m’oifig mura mbeidh freagra faighte aige laistigh de 10 lá.
57. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport the total allocation from central Government/Departments and TII for roads in County Offaly for the years 2022, 2023 and 2024 in tabular form. [25657/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
On 15th February an Exchequer investment of €658 million in our regional and local roads across the State was announced which represents an increase of €32 million over the 2023 allocations. Each local authority received an increase in funding for their Restoration Improvement grant. This Exchequer funding is intended to supplement realistic contributions from local authorities’ own resources. On 31st May, Supplementary Restoration Improvement funding of €30 million was announced following persistent rainfall over winter and spring.
The primary focus for capital investment under the National Development Plan continues to be the protection and renewal of the regional and local road network which plays a critical role in supporting economic and community links throughout the country. Ireland's regional and local road network spans over 96,000kms. The network requires significant funding to ensure it remains fit for purpose, safe and resilient.
Please see table below outlining the regional and local road grant payments made to Offaly County Council in 2022 and 2023. The 2024 allocation includes the Supplementary Restoration Improvement funding announced on 31st May 2024.
|
- |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
|
Offaly County Council |
€14,152,194 |
€14,372,673 |
€16,412,650 |
In respect of National roads, as Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning and construction of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the Infrastructure Guidelines and the necessary statutory approvals.
Full details of the exchequer allocations for TII are available in the respective grant allocations booklet for each year, which are placed in the Oireachtas library. They are also available on the TII website.
58. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport to outline any additional funding given to Offaly County Council from central Government for strengthening of roads that are transversing peatlands in 2022, 2023 and 2024. [25659/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, each local authority has statutory responsibility for the improvement and maintenance of their regional and local roads. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources and are supplemented by State Road grants. Of these grants, the vast majority (approximately 90%) are targeted at the maintenance and renewal of the network with c. 10% of the remaining funding invested in new roads/bridges or for road realignments.
Offaly County Council in conjunction with the Department of Transport have been working on a pilot project for the roads over peat. The pilot project is to help identify innovative solutions in dealing with the issue of road over peat.
Between 2022 and 2023, Offaly County Council received €1,953,572 in funding for this pilot project. In 2024, the Council has been allocated €1 million for the pilot project.
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to the National Roads Programme. Once funding arrangements have been put in place with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), under the Roads Acts 1993-2015 and in line with the National Development Plan (NDP), the planning, design and construction of individual national roads is a matter for TII, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This is also subject to the requirements of the Public Spending Code and necessary statutory approvals. In this context, TII is best placed to advise in relation to any additional funding for National Roads transversing peatlands in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question, on this occasion, to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
59. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the number of formal and informal Council of the European Union meetings that have been held since 27 June 2020 under the remit of his Department; and the number of formal and informal meetings, respectively held virtually and the corresponding number held in person; if he or his predecessor attended each meeting, or a Minister of State or ambassador represented the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25680/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs noted in the Programme for Government, the Government is committed to placing Ireland at the heart of Europe. Membership of the European Union has been transformative for Ireland and its people and I believe that it is in Ireland's best interests to pursue an active and engaged membership by working with our colleagues across the Union.
Details in relation to the meetings of The Council of the European Union can be found here Meeting calendar - Consilium (europa.eu) .
60. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if his Department and each body and agency under the remit of his Department has achieved the Government-mandated public sector remote working target of 20%; when this was achieved in each instance; the current percentage of staff working remotely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25698/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the Civil Service Blended Working Framework, published on 31st March 2022, my Department has published its own Blended Working Policy. Since the 1st July 2022, my Department has facilitated flexible blended working arrangements for all eligible staff members, on a pattern of up to a maximum of 5 days over a fortnight period on a 2 days / 3 days alternating pattern for office attendance as determined by business need, with flexibility expected from staff on other days where there are particular business requirements. Pro-rata arrangements are in place for work-sharing staff members.
At present, around 85% of employees at the Department of Transport are availing of blended working arrangements. Due to the nature of work undertaken by my Department, some roles, such as Watch Officer in the Irish Coast Guard, are unsuitable for blended working due to requirements for duties having to be carried out exclusively at the Department’s work premises.
I have referred your query to the agencies under the aegis of my Department and have asked the bodies to respond directly to you on this matter. If you do not hear from them within 10 days please contact my private office.
