Written Answers Nos. 186-205
186. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Finance the number of individual taxpayers who claimed tax relief on postgraduate fees in the years 2022 and 2023; the value of refunds in both years, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28259/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that the annual cost of the tax relief on approved training courses or third level education fees is set out in the Costs of Tax Expenditures publication, which is available on the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/information-about-revenue/statistics/tax-expenditures/costs-expenditures.aspx (see ‘Approved Training Courses/Third Level Education Fees’).
The information included in the statistics, at present is for 2004 to 2021. Tax returns for 2022 were filed in late 2023 and the data from these are now being processed and statistics will be updated over the coming months at the above link.
I am further advised by Revenue that it is not possible to separately identify the data in relation to postgraduate fees only, as the claim for relief on fees does not require the taxpayer to provide this information separately from undergraduate or other qualifying fees.
I am also advised by Revenue that this data is only available in respect of taxpayer units rather than individuals as tax liabilities are assessed on a taxpayer unit basis. A taxpayer unit can consist of two individuals in cases where a couple who are married or in a civil partnership elect to be jointly assessed.
187. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the Government Department that will have responsibility for covering all costs related to the construction and running of the proposed National Children’s Science Centre [28055/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe OPW are legally obligated to construct the National Children’s Science Centre. There is currently no Government decision as to what Government department/s should fund the construction of the NCSC.
188. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform his plans to amend the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 and the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012 to give effect to commitments made to provide for an increase in the mandatory retirement age to 62 years for uniformed public servants; if the Government plans to apply the amended legislation consistently across all line Government departments and the relevant sectoral employers; the proposed upper age limit will be explicitly provided for in the proposed amended legislation; the rationale for the apparent decision to devolve this matter to individual line departments; if the Department will agree to meet the public sector unions (details supplied) on these matters given their concerns as expressed in correspondence to him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27876/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI fully support measures to increase the retirement ages in the uniformed services. An increased mandatory retirement age of 62 for members of An Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, Firefighters and the Irish Prison Service was recently approved by Government. This will enhance the options available to members of the uniformed services and it will assist in retaining valuable expertise.
The provisions which give effect to this decision are included in Part 7 of the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024. The Bill and Explanatory Memorandum was published by the Minister for Justice on 20th June, and was initiated in the Seanad on 27th June.
While the relevant Minister with responsibility determines the operational justification for mandatory retirement age changes within each uniformed cohort, it is my role as Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan, Delivery and Reform to sanction the pay and pensions impact of any retirement age measures.
I am satisfied that the provisions set out in the Courts, Civil Law, Criminal Law and Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2024 will allow serving members of An Garda Síochána, the Defence forces, Firefighters and Prison Officers the additional option to remain in work for longer, if they choose to do so.
The correspondence, which you have referenced, will be responded to directly.
189. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the main policy achievements of his Department since 27 June 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27967/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe staff in my department have worked collaboratively on a wide range of policies and initiatives since June 2020, delivering on the strategic goals set out in the department’s previous Statement of Strategy 2021 – 2023 and the current Statement of Strategy 2023 – 2025. This includes the strategic management of well-targeted and sustainable public spending and the negotiation and allocation of €91.2 billion of funding for 2024.
The department has also drafted policy to address the challenges and contexts facing Ireland today. Policies have been developed to support an equitable, digital and green recovery, establish blended working arrangements, open our country to those fleeing war and address the cost of living crisis in an appropriate, considered and timely manner to continue to safeguard the sustainability of public expenditure.
Some of the main policy achievements over this period include:
• the publication of the revised National Development Plan (NDP) – the largest and greenest NDP in the history of the State with a particular focus on responding to the key issues of public housing provision and climate. Updates are regularly given on NDP progress through quarterly Memoranda for Government and the Project Ireland 2024 Progress Tracker outlines progress on different NDP projects across the country
• the update of the Public Spending Code to strengthen our approach to capital expenditure management. This included the introduction of the External Assurance Process (EAP) and Major Projects Advisory Group (MPAG). The Public Spending Code has been replaced with a set of Infrastructure Guidelines as of March 2023
• the commencement of the Data Sharing and Governance Act 2019
• leading on digital transformation, including the publication of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, Connecting Government 2030: A Digital and ICT strategy for Ireland’s Public Service and Digital for Good: Ireland’s Digital Inclusion Roadmap
• leading on the Life Events programme, an initiative aimed at transforming public services to be more accessible, proactive, convenient and seamless both online and in person
• working collaboratively with other departments in designing the first Civil Service Blended Working Framework which was launched to support Civil Service organisations to develop their own blended working policies
• agreement of the new Public Service Agreement 2024-2026 in response to inflation and the rising cost of living
• development of the Partnership Agreement , the overarching strategic document that lays out Ireland’s investment strategy and priorities to be addressed via the Cohesion Policy programmes
• providing appropriate funding for a whole of Government response to meeting our climate ambitions and Housing for All targets
• publication of Better Public Services , a new transformation strategy to 2030 for the Public Service aimed at delivering for the public and building trust
• launch of the Domestic Violence and Abuse Policy for the Civil Service , which sets out statutory entitlements to domestic violence leave and other employment supports for civil servants
• publication of the Civil Service Menopause in the Workplace Policy Framework , which provides an overarching framework to support Civil Service organisations to develop menopause policies to support their employees
• launch of the Open Data Strategy 2023 – 2027 , which provides the framework for the actions that the Public Service will take on Open Data over the next five years to ensure best use of data across all public sectors
• launch of the Civil Service Assisted Return to Career programme, which promotes a more inclusive labour market for skilled workers seeking to return to work after a career break
Additionally, through a continuum of measures, this department proactively continues to respond with targeted measures to alleviate pressure on households and exposed sectors of the economy. The management of a responsive fiscal policy, which invests in better public services and infrastructure for our growing and changing population, allows us - especially through the Budgetary process - to respond to external challenges faced by households, businesses and individuals across the country. This planned and careful management of our public expenditure has helped us to return Government finances to a surplus.
The Deputy may also wish to note that full details in relation to the achievements of the department are set out in the department’s Annual Reports published each year on Gov.ie. The 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 Annual Reports can be found at the following links:
www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/228322/cf7a63a8-6bda-43d2-9020-19ac6db63a37.pdf#page=null
www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/134835/161df9dc-c422-47c4-8f65-b0b9fffe2f33.pdf#page=null
www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/263645/be5988c2-b456-4ef4-b5c6-477b8b10adf8.pdf#page=null
www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/295832/414461c1-f7dc-4a1c-8bff-b84dbdbe053b.pdf#page=null
A broad range of information and updates about the department's key policy areas are published on its section of the gov.ie website at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/organisation/department-of-public-expenditure-and-reform/
190. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform to provide a breakdown of all spending to date by the OPW on the National Children’s Science Centre; and the expected final cost of the project. [28056/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe expenditure incurred by the OPW on the National Children’s Science Centre at the Earlsfort Terrace Complex amounts to €1,584,880.
The costs incurred are broken down as follows;
|
Surveys, Site Investigation & Opening up works |
€ 476,275 |
|
Legal costs from Arbitration, not including final costs on 2021 arbitration (Yet to be determined) |
€ 255,252 |
|
Consultants - Civil & Structural Engineers, M&E Engineers, Quantity Surveyors etc. |
€ 620,196 |
|
Statutory Applications- Planning Applications, Appeals, Fire Safety Cert applications, Disability Access certs and associated costs |
€ 233,157 |
|
Total |
€ 1,584,880 |
The projected final cost of the project is not finalised as planning conditions are still being assessed and they will also be subject to the outcome of a tender process.
191. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if he has examined reintroducing a supplementary pension for members of the Defence Forces recruited since 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28165/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Single Public Service Pension Scheme is a statutory Public Service Career-Average Defined Benefit Pension Scheme, established on 1 January 2013 under the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme and Other Provisions) Act 2012. The Single Scheme was established to place publicly-funded retirement benefits on a more sustainable footing in the context of longer life expectancies.
All new entrants to the public service, hired after 1 January 2013, are members of the Single Scheme. Members of the Permanent Defence Force, members of An Garda Síochána, firefighters, and Prison Officers are categorised as members of the ‘Uniformed Accrual’ cohort of Single Scheme members. The uniformed grades have certain enhanced benefits that other members of the Single Scheme do not have, in recognition of their earlier retirement age, such as accelerated pension benefits accrual and early payment of scheme benefits, compared with Standard Accrual members. This enables them to accrue more Single Scheme benefits over the expected shorter public service careers in these roles.
Once members of the ‘Uniformed Accrual’ cohort reach their normal retirement age, as provided for in Section 26 of the 2012 Act, they can retire at that earlier age and receive their occupational retirement benefits accrued at a higher rate, including their retirement lump-sum and the commencement of their pension benefit payments.
Government Policy is to facilitate longer active working lives, with the social welfare system continuing to provide a safety net for those who, for health or other reasons, are not in a position to work longer. Single Scheme pension benefits are integrated with the State Pension (Contributory) as members pay Class A PRSI.In the period between a uniformed member's retirement and the State pension age of 66, they receive benefits under the Single Scheme. These benefits are separate, and in addition to any future entitlement that they may have to the State Pension (Contributory) administered by the Department of Social Protection.
Whilst Uniformed Accrual members have compulsory retirement ages lower than the State Pension (Contributory) retirement age, they are still able to work in other employment in the intervening period, while fully accessing their Single Scheme pension benefits (subject to abatement, where applicable). The Single Scheme does not provide for a ‘Supplementary Pension’ and no changes of this policy are being considered at this time.
An increased mandatory retirement age of 62 for members of the Defence Forces was recently proposed and approved by Government. My officials are at an advanced stage of drafting the legislation to enact the necessary amendments and are working with colleagues in other relevant departments to progress through all stages of the legislative process as quickly as possible. This will increase the number of years over which members of the Defence Forces, and other Uniformed Accrual members, can accrue pension benefits, under the Single Scheme and pre-existing public service pension schemes.
192. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the position regarding the proposed flood relief works by the OPW at Annagh, Lisnagry, County Limerick. [28291/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the maintenance of arterial drainage schemes completed under the Arterial Drainage Acts, 1945 and 1995, as amended. The works referred to by the Deputy do not form part of the Mulkear (Ballymackeogh) Arterial Drainage Scheme. The OPW has a statutory obligation to maintain this scheme and carries out on-going maintenance as necessary.
However, officials in the OPW South West Regional Office are aware that Limerick City and County Council are investigating and exploring available options to mitigate flood risk at Annagh upstream of the OPW maintained channel of the aforementioned scheme. The OPW have provided Limerick City and County Council with technical support to date on this project. The project will be progressed by Limerick City and County Council.
It is open to Limerick City and County Council to apply to the OPW for funding of this project under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme. The purpose of this scheme is to provide funding to Local Authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation works or studies to address localised fluvial flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas. The works to be funded are carried out under Local Authority powers and ongoing maintenance of the completed works is the responsibility of the Council.
The scheme generally applies to relatively straightforward cases where a solution can be readily identified and achieved in a short time frame. Under the scheme, applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for approved projects. Applications are assessed by the OPW having regard to the specific economic, social and environmental criteria of the scheme, including a cost benefit ratio and having regard to the availability of funding for flood risk management.
193. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of cases which have come before the WRC regarding the right to request remote working since the publication of the WRC Code of Practice; the number of these cases which have been adjudicated on; whether there was a positive or negative result regarding the employees' request; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27938/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is an independent, statutory body under the aegis of my Department. The WRC’s primary functions include the inspection of employment law compliance, the provision of information on employment law, mediation, adjudication, conciliation, facilitation, and advisory services. The WRC is independent in the exercise of its quasi-judicial function, and I have no direct involvement in its day-to-day operations.
However, I am advised by the WRC that up to 20th June 2024, it has received 10 complaints under the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 in relation to remote working, seeking adjudication by a WRC Adjudication Officer.
The vast majority of these complaints (7) were received very recently in this month or last. Two of these complaints have been withdrawn by the complainants, one has been heard with another scheduled for an upcoming hearing and the remaining are at various stages of being registered or scheduled for hearing.
194. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the main policy achievements of his Department since 27 June 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27959/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main policy achievements and actions taken by my Department to boost jobs and business between June 2020 and December 2022 are set out in our Annual Reports, which are available on our website at www.enterprise.gov.ie. These reports set out details of the objectives realised under each of the department’s strategic goals.
Key achievements for my Department in 2023 are listed below.
Enterprise Development and Innovation
• The Ukraine Credit Guarantee Scheme got underway with the first lender to the market announced in January 2023. The scheme provides loans at reduced rates and without the need for collateral on loans up to €250k, to SMEs including farmers and fishers, for purposes of working capital and medium-term investment.
• Extension and expansion of the €200 million Ukraine Enterprise Crisis Scheme to assist viable but vulnerable firms of all sizes in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors. The scheme assists firms suffering liquidity and supply chain issues as a result of Russia’s war on Ukraine and helps those impacted by severe rises in energy costs.
• The pilot framework to extend the LEO mandate was launched in January 2023. The framework will allow for the provision of direct grant aid to companies with over 10 employees in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors with export ambition.
• In February, DETE hosted a construction industry outreach event, ‘Collaborat to Innovate,’ to examine how best to promote innovation in the sector and accelerate the adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC) in the delivery of housing. DETE and EI also agreed a range of Housing for All related research projects for inclusion in the Construction Technology Centre ‘Construct Innovate’s’ work programme.
• Nine ‘Building Better Business’ conferences took place around the country to highlight the Regional Enterprise Plans and the twin challenges of digitalisation and the transition to a low-carbon economy.
• A dedicated webpage for retail specific information from across the Government system went live in March. “Retail sector in Ireland” is a resource for retail specific information that is available in one single online space in an accessible and user-friendly format.
• In March, a sixth call of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) was launched. This call is encouraging projects that complement our policy objectives on digital transformation, integrating decarbonisation, and meeting our net zero commitments. In April, Funding of €17.6m was announced for a further five projects under Calls 4 and 5.
• The new Energy Efficiency Grant for small businesses was launched in May. The objective of the scheme is to support capital investment by businesses to reduce carbon emissions and overall energy costs by accelerating the adoption of low carbon technologies or processes.
• Three new innovation programmes were developed and launched through the European Regional Development Fund. These will, in the main, enhance knowledge transfer between industry and higher education, and provide innovation training.
• In June, the first allocation of funding under Irish Innovation Seed Fund (IISF) was made.
• NSAI has restructured their construction team to support Agrément, a certification process for innovative building products and systems, and anticipated future demand for on-site inspections.
• In June a new collection of standard recommendations was launched to guide the efforts of professionals in the retrofitting sector to deliver high-quality, sustainable, and efficient building upgrades.
Employment Rights And Workplace Relations
• On the first of January 2023, the National Minimum Wage increased by 80 cents, from €10.50 to €11.30. This increase can be considered the first year of the proposed four-year path towards reaching the living wage of 60% of the median wage.
• European Commission workshops with the expert group on the transposition of the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages commenced in March.
• My Department completed the ratification process of International Labour Organisation (ILO) Convention 190 on the elimination of violence and harassment in the workplace in January 2023. This is a legal instrument which recognises the right of everyone to a world of work free from violence and harassment, including gender-based violence and harassment.
• An Interdepartmental Working Group has concluded its high-level considerations of the changes required in order to fully transpose Article 2(1) of Directive 2008/94/EC which provides protections for employees in the event of their employers’ insolvency. A report of the group’s recommendations was finalised in March 2023.
• Work commenced with contractors on the development of the new ICT processing system for employment permits with the aim of driving further efficiencies in processing and delivering increased productivity, while at the same time improving the overall user experience.
Policy Development
• The SME and Entrepreneurship Taskforce reconvened in January to continue progressing priorities under the SME and Entrepreneurship Growth Plan.
• The Department’s Enterprise Forum meets quarterly to discuss enterprise policy implications arising from emerging national and international challenges.
• Implementation of the Regional Enterprise Plans continues, with several Steering Committee meetings taking place during H1 2023.
• The Industrial Heat Roadmap Working Group was established and first meeting held. A key output of this Working Group will be the development of a roadmap for decarbonising industrial heat. This roadmap will be published in Q4 2023 and will clearly set out the pathway to decarbonisation of industry.
• Progress on the implementation of the actions in the 2022/23 Retail Forum Work Programme is continuing and is driven by the members of the three Retail Forum Working Groups - Town Centre First/Night-time Economy, Green Transition and Digitalisation and Skills.
• A Working Group on the development of principles and guidelines on the ethical and trustworthy use of AI in the public service has met twice and developed a draft document, which they are continuing to progress. The recommendations of the Group will be brought to Government for consideration as soon as possible.
• In February 2023, the OECD’s first ever Ministerial on Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) highlighting the growing importance of the area. To ensure the Department responds coherently and consistently with messaging on the various Responsible Business initiatives across different Divisions, a Responsible Business contact group has been convened bringing officials together to clearly drive this agenda forward.
• In March the Commercial Built Environment Roadmap Working Group was established and first meeting held. This Working Group is tasked with supporting enterprises in ensuring that the commercial built environment achieves its climate change targets through the development and publication of a Commercial Built Environment Roadmap in Q3.
• In June the Consumer and Competition Protection Commission (CCPC) published their report, ‘A High-level Analysis of the Irish Grocery Retail Sector’.
• Following publication of the White Paper on Enterprise 2022-2030 in December of 2022, the first of a series of consecutive two-year Implementation Plans was developed by the Department and published on the 31 May. The Implementation Plan captures progress made against commitments, through bi-annual update reports, the first of which was delivered in Q3 2023.
• Following the review of TBESS changes have been made to the scheme in order to ensure more businesses are eligible to apply, the Finance Act which gave effect to these changes was commenced in mid-May.
• A review of the occupations on the Critical Skills Occupation List and Ineligible Occupations List for employment permits was launched in June.
Legislation
• The Representative Actions for the Protection of the Collective Interests of Consumers Bill 2023 was published in March. Final and Report stage took place in the Dáil on 21 June 2023.
• The General Scheme of Plan of Action on Collective Redundancies following Insolvency Bill 2023 was approved by Government on 4 May. The General Scheme of the Bill underwent pre-legislative scrutiny at the Joint Oireachtas Committee on 31 May.
• The EU (Cross-Border Conversions, Mergers and Divisions) Regulations 2023 were signed on 24th May. The regulations make it easier for companies to restructure across jurisdictions within the EU.
• Control of Exports Bill 2023 was published on 4 May, with Committee Stage on 28 June 2023.
• Phase one of the Personal Injuries Resolution Board Act 2022, to reform and enhance the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) commenced with effect from 13 February. Phase one included legislative provisions regarding the retention of additional claims by the Board and the Court treatment of costs. Phase two will commence in September.
• Amendments to the Employment Permits Bill to provide for the Seasonal Employment Permit and a new option to transfer employer without needing a new permit have been approved by Cabinet on 23 May.
• The Screening of Third Country Transactions Bill was considered by the Select Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment on 25 January 2023. A number of amendments were agreed and the Bill will progress to report stage in Autumn.
• Government approved the priority drafting of the General Scheme of the Digital Services Bill 2023 in March and the Pre-Legislative Scrutiny report was received in June. Drafting is underway.
• On the 20th of June, Government approved the drafting of the Microenterprise Loan Fund (Amendment) Bill in accordance with the General Scheme.
• A public consultation and webinar, with over 500 participants in attendance, was held on the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. A further webinar will take place on 4 July 2023. Stakeholder engagement will inform the ongoing transposition project.
From 1 January 2024 to date my Department continues to deliver on the following:
Enterprise Development and Innovation
• The Shared Island-funded enterprise scheme was awarded €30 million in Shared Island funding in February 2024 and will focus on three thematic areas – female entrepreneurship, clusters and networks, and green investment. The enterprise agencies are currently working towards further mobilisation of this scheme later in the year.
• Establishment of AI Advisory Council.
• In April the Second Digital Ireland Conference was held in Dublin Castle bringing together government, industry and academia to exchange views on digital developments in the EU and globally.
• In May a package of supports for SMEs was announced that include:
• reopening the Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) Scheme for another 14 days
• introducing a second payment of ICOB for businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors
• doubling the Innovation Grant Scheme to €10,000
• increasing the maximum amount available under the Energy Efficiency Grant Scheme to €10,000 and reducing the business contribution rate from 50% to 25%
• widening the eligibility for the Trading Online Voucher, extending it to all sectors up to 50 employees, modernising eligible expenditure and doubling the grant to €5,000
• increasing the lending limit for Microfinance Ireland loans to €50,000 from €25,000
• widening the eligibility for the Digital for Business Consultancy Scheme and extending it to all sectors with up to 50 employees
• launching a new ‘Ireland’s Best Entrepreneur Programme’ to encourage entrepreneurship and startups in under-represented groups
• launching the new online National Enterprise Hub for SMEs to access information on the wide range of Government business supports
• implementing an enhanced ‘SME Test’ by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in conjunction with the Department of the Taoiseach
• review of ESRI research on the impact of Statutory Sick Leave before deciding on any further increases
• review the proposed Roadmap for Increasing Minimum Annual Remuneration Thresholds for Employment Permits
• The Minister also launched the Local Enterprise Offices Policy Statement 2024 – 2030, in May. The LEO Policy Statement, is anchored on 4 key pillars:
• Enabling Enterprise;
• Offering business advice;
• Providing Enterprise support;
• Support locally economic development.
• Progress on the commitments listed in the White Paper are reported on to the Cabinet Committee on Economy and Investment every six months. The first update report was delivered back in November 2023, and covered the period H1 2023. The second update report was published in May 2024. In addition to providing updates across the 40 initiatives, these reports included updates, where available, on progress towards the 15 targets identified in the White Paper. Almost half of the activities outlined in the first implementation plan (43%) were delivered in the first year.
• Enterprise Ireland’s results from January 2024 showed there are now 225,495 employed in EI supported companies with a total of 15,530 jobs created. 68% of new jobs created were regionally based. Latest export results, released in June 2024, show a total of €34.57 billion in 2023, a new record for Irish exporters supported by Enterprise Ireland.
• IDA Ireland is now in the final year of its 2021-24 strategy, “Driving Recovery and Sustainable Growth” and has already achieved or is on track to achieve all targets set across the five strategic pillars of the strategy: Growth, Transformation, Regions, Sustainability, and Impact. The overall targets of 800 investments and 50,000 jobs have been surpassed and there are now over 1,800 client operations in IDA Ireland’s portfolio of multinational companies with a third of these companies located in Ireland for at least 20 years.
• My Department, working with the three Regional Assemblies, Enterprise Ireland (EI) and Science Foundation Ireland (SFI), has ensured all three of Ireland’s NUTS 2 regions have been designated as Regional Innovation Valleys under the European Commission’s New European Innovation Agenda initiative. This inclusion recognises the regions’ potential as hubs of innovation and economic growth within a network of 151 similarly designated regions across Europe.
• I announced an increase in the value of Innovation Vouchers from €5,000 to €10,000 from 1 July 2024. These vouchers facilitate company access to the third level sector (across the island of Ireland) and are often the first step for a company on their innovation journey.
• My Department also supported the continued investment in the development and deployment of disruptive technologies and applications on a commercial basis through the announcement of €6.8 million in funding for a twelfth project under Call 6 of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, and the launch of Call 7 as a rolling Call. Applications will be accepted at any stage up to the deadline at 5pm on 30 April 2025.
• The 2024 Trade Mission programme is progressing with Trade Missions undertaken to Dubai, Abu Dhabi/Saudi Arabia, India, Bangladesh and Poland so far in 2024. Further Trade Missions are scheduled for July (East Coast USA) and September (West Coast USA).
• The second international Trade Horizons conference, focusing on trade and sustainability, will take place in Dublin Castle on 4 July 2024.
• On 28 May 2024, I secured Government approval for public procurement guidance to promote the reduction of embodied carbon in construction. Letters will issue shortly to public bodies to advise them of new guidance when designing public projects and procuring cement and concrete products in particular. The guidance ensures a consistent approach to reducing the embodied carbon – emissions associated with extracting and producing construction materials – in construction projects procured by government departments and their agencies.
• The EU-New Zealand FTA, entered fully into force on 1 May 2024 creating significant economic opportunity for Irish firms as well as our vibrant agri-food sector. It confirms the special status of a number of Irish products, with geographical indications (GIs) confirmed in the agreement.
• On 27 May 2024, the Council of the European Union adopted the Net Zero Industry Act. An Interdepartmental Implementation Group, led by my Department and comprising DHLGH, DECC, DFHERIS, DFIN, DPENDR, OGP, is progressing the implementation of the Act and engagement is ongoing. The specific time limits and deadlines set out in the Act are expected to be met.
• DETE-ESRI Joint Economic Research Programme Seminar was held.
• Regional Competitiveness Seminar was held in Limerick which was organised on behalf of the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC).
• In June, I published the Decarbonisation of Industrial Heat Roadmap, which sets out what the operating environment for energy used in manufacturing will look like in the future. The announcement included ringfencing of €300 million under the Capital Plan which will be available to drive the decarbonisation of Ireland’s industrial emitters. The fund will be used by EI and IDA Ireland to support client companies to reduce their industrial emissions between now and 2030. Work to progress the enabling measures identified under the Decarbonisation of Industrial Heat Roadmap are in progress.
• The first Annual Report of the Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA) was published.
• The National Enterprise Hub (NEH) is currently at an advanced stage of development with a formal launch taking place on 10th July. The NEH will make it easier for business to access information about the broad range of supports available to them across Government. The NEH is supported by a team of advisors who can be contacted by phone, email and live chat.
• The Government approved Ireland joining the Europe Startup Nations Alliance (ESNA). Enterprise Ireland will represent Ireland at ESNA.
Employment Rights And Workplace Relations
• Government approved the recommendation of the Low Pay Commission to increase the National Minimum Wage by €1.40 to €12.70 an hour from 1 January 2024. This increase can be considered the second phase of a four-year transition to 2026, at which point the Living Wage will replace the National Minimum Wage. The Government is committed to introducing a national living wage by January 2026 which will be set at 60% of the hourly median wage. The Low Pay Commission has estimated that a National Minimum Wage of €12.70 will represent 55.1% of median wages in 2024.
• The Low Pay Commission published a Report on Sub-minimum Rates of the National Minimum Wage in June.
• The development of a Single Application Procedure for employment and immigration permissions has been agreed by Government to create a single point of application for third country nationals applying to work and live in Ireland.
Policy Development
• Powering Prosperity – Ireland’s Offshore Wind Industrial Strategy was published on 8 March.
• The Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence by Council of Europe was adopted (DETE led during negotiations).
• An Assessment of the Cumulative Impact of Proposed Measures to Improve Working Conditions in Ireland was published on 5 March.
• Skills for Biopharma: Researching and Forecasting the Current and Future Skills Needs of the Biopharma Sector in Ireland to 2027 was published by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs.
• On 1 May, a new Balance for Better Business 5-year strategy and targets was launched, to improve gender balance in senior business leadership in Ireland, with a view to the benefits of diversity for business performance.
• Skills for International Financial Services: An Assessment of Future Skills Requirements in High Potential Sub-sectors of Ireland’s International Financial Services Sector to 2027 was published on 3 May by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs.
• In June, “Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe” was published.
Legislation
S.I. NO. 10/2024 – Sick Leave Act 2022 (Increase of Statutory Sick Leave Days Order 2024, increased the entitlement to statutory sick leave days from 3 days to 5 days, effective from 1 January 2024.
• S.I. No. 705/2023 - Workplace Relations Act 2015 (Fixed Payment Notice) Regulations 2023 were published in January 2024. These regulations set out new fines for businesses found breaching rules surrounding tips as outlined in the Payment of Wages (Amendment) (Tips and Gratuities) Act 2022.
• Commencement of Digital Services Act 2024, giving full effect to EU Digital Services Act in Ireland.
• The General Scheme of the Employment (Restriction of Certain Mandatory Retirement Ages) Bill 2024 was approved by Government on 5 March 2024. The Bill will implement a key commitment included in the government’s response to the Pensions Commission Recommendations and Implementation Plan. It will deliver a statutory provision which will allow, but not compel, an employee to stay in employment until the State Pension age, which is age 66.
• The right to request remote working was integrated into the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023, which is led by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. In March the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment commenced Part 3 of the Act, which provides all employees with the right to request remote working arrangements. The Act includes obligations for the employee and the employer with regard to requests for remote working arrangements.
• Enactment of Statutory Instrument giving full effect to EU Digital Markets Act in Ireland
• The European Union (Adjustments of Size Criteria for Certain Companies and Groups) Regulations 2024 (S.I. No. 301 of 2024) came into operation on the 1 July 2024, adjusting company size thresholds in line with 25 per cent inflation, thereby reducing the regulatory and administrative burden on some companies which would otherwise become subject to audit and additional financial reporting requirements.
• June 2024 has seen The Employment Permits Bill 2022 pass all Oireachtas stages and it is expected to be enacted next month. This Bill will allow for a more flexible employment permits system which will be better able to adapt to changing labour market needs.
• Digital Services (Levy) Bill 2024 was passed by Dáil Éireann on 26 June 2024.
• The Employment (Collective Redundancies and Miscellaneous Provisions) and Companies (Amendment) Act 2024 (Commencement) Order 2024 came into effect from 1 July finalising the State’s commitments to further enhance the protections afforded to employees in a collective redundancy situation following insolvency.
• Drafting commenced of the Companies (Corporate Governance, Enforcement and Regulatory Provisions) Bill 2024.
• Adoption of EU Artificial Intelligence Act by European Council on which my Department led during negotiations.
• The General Scheme of the Protection of Employees (Employers' Insolvency) (Amendment) Bill 2024 was approved by Government in May 2024. The Scheme protects employees’ pay-related entitlements if their employer becomes insolvent. The Bill will expand access to the Scheme to protect employees of employers who cease trading without entering into liquidation, receivership or bankruptcy.
• My Department is working with stakeholders to determine how Ireland can best leverage the potential of the European Chips Act for increased research and manufacturing investment in Ireland. The Department and its agencies have begun implementation of the European Chips Act, including by supporting participation in two pilot lines and advancing the process of selecting an Irish Competence Centre in Semiconductors. Work is also ongoing to develop a National Semiconductor Strategy due for publication in Q3 2024.
195. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has read a report (details supplied); if, in view of that report, it is possible to estimate the cost of phasing out sub-minima national minimum wage rates for workers aged under twenty years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28110/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, in February 2022, the Low Pay Commission was asked by the then Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to examine the issues around retaining or removing the sub-minimum youth rates of the National Minimum Wage and to make recommendations on the subject.
To inform its work, the Low Pay Commission asked the ESRI to conduct background research on this issue under the terms of the LPC-ESRI Research Partnership Agreement. This report, “Sub-minimum Wages in Ireland”, was published in November 2023.
The study examines the incidence and the characteristics of employees that are paid below the full National Minimum Wage rate. It provides evidence on the number of employees, and the type of employees, that could be impacted by any changes made to the sub-minimum youth rates.
I have read this report, and the Low Pay Commission’s report and recommendations on sub-minimum rates of the National Minimum Wage. The Deputy will be aware that the Low Pay Commission has recommended the removal of all sub-minimum youth rates of the National Minimum Wage.
While these reports provide information on the incidence of sub-minimum employment, I have committed to commissioning an economic impact assessment of the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations.
The economic impact assessment will model the cost and impact of making changes to youth rates on firms of different sizes and in different sectors. It will also consider the likely changes to the National Minimum Wage given the Government’s decision to progress to a National Living Wage set at 60 per cent of the median wage.
Terms of reference for this economic impact assessment are being finalised.
196. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason a new Employment Regulation Order for the security guarding sector, which will increase the minimum hourly rate of pay, is being decoupled from a link to the national minimum wage, which means the pay for workers in the sector would not increase consequentially with increases in the national minimum wage; if he will reverse this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28283/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMinister Higgins approved the new ERO for the Security Industry on 13 June 2024 and it is due to commence on 1 July 2024. The full details of the ERO will be made available to the public on the Department’s website.
Under legislation the statutory role of the Minister in the ERO process is clearly defined. As soon as practicable after receiving a copy of the proposals from the Labour Court, where she is satisfied that Sections 42A and 42B of the Industrial Relations Act 1946 have been complied with, and where she considers it appropriate to do so, she will make an Employment Regulation Order giving effect to the proposals; or should the Minister refuse to make such an Order, she must notify the Court as to the reasons why.
The terms and conditions contained in an Employment Regulation Order are independently negotiated at the Security Industry Joint Labour Committee by representatives of workers and employers and sent to the Minister for approval by the Labour Court. Minister Higgins received the recommendation for this ERO from the Labour Court on 4th June 2024.
197. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will review the renewal fee for general employment permit applications, in view of the fact that the renewal fee is greater than the initial application fee and the renewal fee is a significant financial burden incurred by the employer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28318/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe employment permits system is run on the principle of cost recovery. The fee for processing an employment permit application is intended to cover the costs involved in administering the service, which includes enforcement as well as the provision of information.
The application fee was last set on 1st October 2014 and has not been increased for applicants since. A General Employment Permit can be granted for a period of up to two years for a fee of €1,000. That permit can be renewed for a further period of up to three years at a cost of €1,500. Reduced fees of €500 and €750 are applicable for shorter periods of six months or less for new and renewals of General Employment Permits, respectively.
After five years on a General Employment Permit, the non EEA permit holder may apply to the Department of Justice for immigration permission allowing them to continue to work in the State without the need for an employment permit.
The legislation provides fee waivers for certain categories of non EEA nationals and for a refund of 90% where an application is either withdrawn or refused.
The purpose of the Employment Permits System is to assist economic growth by facilitating the filling of key skills gaps which cannot be filled using domestic or EEA labour markets and not to facilitating access to cheap labour. There are no plans at present to adjust the application fees for the various permit types which are detailed in the below table.
|
Employment permit Category |
First Application Fee |
Renewal Fee |
|
General Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 24 months and€500 for six months or less |
€750 for six months or less€1,500 up to 36 months |
|
Critical Skills Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 24 months |
N/A |
|
Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit |
No fee |
No fee |
|
Intra-Company Transfer Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 24 months and€500 for six months or less |
€500 for six months or less€1,000 up to 24 months€1,500 up to 36 months |
|
Contract for Services Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 24 months and€500 for six months or less |
€750 for six months or less€1,500 up to 36 months |
|
Reactivation Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 24 months and€500 for six months or less |
€750 for six months or less€1,500 up to 36 months |
|
Sport and Cultural Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 24 months and€500 for six months or less |
€750 for six months or less€1,500 up to 36 months |
|
Exchange Agreement Employment Permit |
No fee |
N/A |
|
Internship Employment Permit |
€1,000 up to 12 months and€500 for six months or less |
N/A |
198. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education if she will provide a revised completion date for a school (details supplied).; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27873/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra210. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Education to provide an update on the revised completion date for the new build and works at a school (details supplied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28004/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 198 and 210 together.
The school referred to by the Deputy is at Architectural planning Stage 4 - Construction. Works commenced on site in June 2023 with an estimated completion timeframe of 18 months. However, due to unforeseen site issues at the outset, completion is now estimated at Quarter 2 of 2025. The Design Team and my Department's Planning and Building Unit are monitoring progress closely and every effort will be made to mitigate any further delay.
My Department officials will keep the school authority informed in relation to the completion date as the project progresses.
199. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education the number of children, by county, who availed of the home tuition grant scheme 2023-2024 special education component; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27874/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe purpose of the Home Tuition Grant Scheme is to provide a compensatory educational service for children who, for a number of reasons, are unable to attend school.
The different categories of Home Tuition under the special education component are as follows:
• Mental Health - Students enrolled in schools with school phobia and/or associated depression/anxiety.
• Medical - Students enrolled in schools with a significant medical condition.
• Early Intervention - 2.5yr -3yr - Children aged between 2 ½ and 3 years of age with an ASD diagnosis.
• 3+ - Children aged 3 or more years of age who are availing of the early intervention supports available to pupils before they commence in primary school.
• SEN school aged no placement - Children with Special Educational Needs seeking a school placement. Many of these students are sanctioned Home Tuition on a shortterm basis while awaiting for special schools/classes to open or to assist with transition to school placement.
A breakdown of the number of children, by county, who were approved Home Tuition in the 2023/2024 academic year is as follows:
|
County |
Mental Health |
Medical |
Early Intervention - 2.5yr -3yr |
3+ |
SEN school aged no placement |
Total |
|
Carlow |
4 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
14 |
|
Cavan |
4 |
1 |
2 |
4 |
0 |
11 |
|
Clare |
12 |
5 |
3 |
14 |
2 |
36 |
|
Cork |
71 |
25 |
10 |
95 |
19 |
220 |
|
Donegal |
9 |
11 |
1 |
5 |
0 |
26 |
|
Dublin North |
31 |
15 |
6 |
145 |
42 |
239 |
|
Dublin South |
37 |
14 |
6 |
171 |
38 |
266 |
|
Galway |
17 |
11 |
2 |
31 |
2 |
63 |
|
Kerry |
25 |
11 |
0 |
3 |
3 |
42 |
|
Kildare |
20 |
7 |
4 |
32 |
7 |
70 |
|
Kilkenny |
5 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
16 |
|
Laois |
8 |
5 |
0 |
6 |
1 |
20 |
|
Leitrim |
7 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
7 |
|
Limerick |
16 |
14 |
9 |
50 |
0 |
89 |
|
Longford |
3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
|
Louth |
7 |
4 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
14 |
|
Mayo |
4 |
6 |
2 |
7 |
1 |
20 |
|
Meath |
26 |
7 |
4 |
36 |
0 |
73 |
|
Monaghan |
2 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
0 |
12 |
|
Offaly |
23 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
32 |
|
Roscommon |
2 |
6 |
0 |
17 |
4 |
29 |
|
Sligo |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
|
Tipperary |
18 |
5 |
0 |
2 |
3 |
28 |
|
Waterford |
10 |
4 |
0 |
5 |
2 |
21 |
|
Westmeath |
12 |
6 |
1 |
20 |
5 |
44 |
|
Wexford |
6 |
4 |
2 |
16 |
1 |
29 |
|
Wicklow |
14 |
3 |
1 |
8 |
2 |
28 |
|
Total |
397 |
178 |
65 |
682 |
135* |
1457 |
* These include children who are at least 6 years old and are seeking a school placement or are/were transitioning to a school setting. Of the 135 who were sanctioned, many will have found places or transitioned to places during the school year. Separately, 68 of the 135 children are remaining in a group based setting for this school year before they transition. The Department works closely with the NCSE on each of these cases.
200. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 32 of 15 May 2024, if he will examine the case for placement of a child (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27877/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that this is an anxious time for parents who are seeking a school place for their child for September and I would like to assure the Deputy that this government is determined to alleviate the pressures faced by parents when seeking a special educational placement.
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has advised my department that the local special educational needs organiser (SENO) is working with the family in relation to securing a school placement for the child for September and has provided them with information in relation to new special classes opening in schools in the area.
My department and the NCSE work closely in relation to the forward planning of new special classes and additional special school places, work which is close to finalisation for the 2024/25 school year.
381 new special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the 2024/25 school year, 267 at primary and 114 at post primary level. Of these, 59 are in Dublin, this brings the overall number of classes in the county to 593.
The NCSE expect to confirm some additional classes shortly to ensure that a sufficient level of provision is available. The NCSE is confident that through the provision of these new classes and vacancies in existing classes there is sufficient places to meet the needs of all children known to them for September 2024.
I referenced earlier that this government is committed to alleviating the pressures faced by parents seeking a special educational placement.
Significant additional resources and funding of €13 million have been allocated to the NCSE to allow for the expansion of its services, which will bolster the level of service and provide effective structures to relieve pressure on parents.
This funding has allowed for, among other things, a significant increase in the number of SENOs which will increase from 73 to 120 by next September. These SENOs will work closely with children, their families and schools on the ground in order to provide the necessary supports.
Additional administrative support staff, team managers and other professionals are also being employed to allow SENOs concentrate on working directly with schools and families.
Legislation also provides for the NCSE to have a greater role in the admission of children with special educational needs. This is something that would require significant engagement with the education partners and it is something my Department and the NCSE.
201. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Education if she will address concerns identified by school principals in relation to professional burnout and an excessive administrative burden (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27878/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraTeaching Principals
I recognise the key role school leadership has in promoting a school environment which is welcoming, inclusive and accountable
As a result of Budget 2022, I ensured that all schools with a teaching principal have a minimum of 37 Principal Release Days. i.e. one administrative day per week since September 2022. Schools with one special class have 4 additional release days, a total of 41 in the school year and schools with 2 special classes have administrative principal status.
A new leadership framework introduced in 2017 allows for flexibility in identifying and prioritising the evolving leadership and management needs of schools. This shared leadership model supports school leaders in the overall management and operation of schools. It provides for the assignment and re-assignment of post holders to specific roles and responsibilities to meet a school’s evolving needs. Today, 1 in 3 primary school teachers hold management positions. In Budget 2024, I provided for an additional 500 posts of responsibility (Assistant Principal II) for the 2024/25 school year.
Any further improvement will have to be considered in the context of the overall budgetary process.
School Funding
My Department is committed to providing funding to recognised primary and post-primary schools in the free education scheme by way of per capita grants. The two main grants are the Capitation grant to cater for day to day running costs such as heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance, general up-keep etc. and the Ancillary grant to cater for the cost of employing ancillary services staff. Schools have the flexibility to use capitation funding provided for general running costs and ancillary funding provided for caretaking and secretarial services as a common grant from which the Board of Management can allocate according to its own priorities.
In addition to these grants, €20 million in funding issued during the mid-term break, to support all recognised primary and post-primary schools in the Free Education Scheme. This funding was the first tranche of an overall additional €60 million funding announced as part of Budget 2024 measures designed to assist schools with increased day-to-day running costs such as heating and electricity. A further €40 million in funding was delivered in 2024.
I understand the need for increased capitation funding and I am pleased that I have been able to provide for significant increases in capitation funding for primary and post-primary schools in Budget 2024 which includes a permanent restoration of capitation funding as well as an increase for cost of living pressures.
This year’s Budget will provide targeted funding for school communities with an increase in capitation of over €81 million.
As part of the capitation package in Budget 2024 I am pleased to have secured €21 million as a permanent increase in capitation funding to assist schools now and longer term with increased day-to-day running costs. This will support a permanent restoration of funding for all primary and post-primary schools from September 2024. This will bring the basic rate of capitation grant to the pre-2011 level of €200 per student in primary schools and to €345 in voluntary secondary schools. Enhanced rates will also be paid in respect of pupils with Special Educational Needs. This represents an increase of circa 9.2% of current standard and enhanced capitation rates.
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department’s voted estimate for capital and current expenditure for 2024 stands at over €10.9 billion. This represents an increase of over €2.8 billion or 35% since 2019. This is the third largest budget across Government, and the largest ever investment in our schools. This indicates the strong commitment to investment in education by this Government.
In the lead up to the 2025 Budget, as Minister for Education, I will continue to deliver on the priorities outlined in the Programme for Government and to continue to support the students, staff and families in the education sector. As I am sure the Deputy appreciates, it would not be appropriate for me to outline any more specific plans at this stage of the Budgetary process but over the last four years, I have delivered substantial increases in investment in our Education system, and I remain committed to this vision of a world class education system for all.
The OECD average, as referenced by the Deputy, is taken from the annual ‘OECD Education at a Glance’ report and the 13% of per capita and 27% OECD average is based on all education funding from primary to tertiary education. This report also uses GDP as the base against which to compare investment in education across different OECD members. As the Deputy will be aware, senior academics and other independent analysts have raised questions regarding the use of GDP as the most appropriate measure of the size of the Irish economy. To assist with this, my department published a paper on this matter in October 2022 to assist users of these statistics to understand this issue. This paper is available on www.gov.ie under OECD briefing notes.
This paper outlines how the very large increase of 34% in GDP between 2014 and 2015 raised questions about the usefulness of GDP as an accounting standard for Ireland and its distorting effects on measures such as spend per capita on education. In order to help in analysis of the Irish macroeconomy and in the derivation of other such development indicators, a special measure, GNI-Star (GNI*), which excludes these distorting factors by (for example) excluding the net profits of companies that have been sent abroad, rather than staying in the Irish economy. GNI* has been calculated by the Central Statistics Office (2016) and is available as a continuous series (alongside GDP) from 1995. For context, according to the CSO, in 2021 GNI* was about 30 per cent below the level of GDP. An indication of the more appropriate value of GNI* versus GDP is that GNI* is now being used instead of GDP in national policy for example, the National Development Plan, 2021-2030. The Department of Finance uses GNI* in meeting the Government’s European budgetary requirements with debt-to-GNI* figures rather than debt-to-GDP. The briefing paper referenced above outlines how, using the alternative measure of GNI*, education expenditure in 2020 as a percentage of GNI* stood at 5.8%. This compares favourably to the OECD average for education expenditure as a percentage of national income, which stood at 5.1% in 2020. When The document also looks at Ireland’s spend on education as a percentage of total Government spending and this also compares well internationally.
My Department is committed to providing schools at both primary and post-primary level with as much detail regarding grants, grant amounts and expected payment timeframes for each academic year as far in advance as is practicable.
For the 2024/25 academic year, officials in the Department are currently considering the presentation of schedules for grants that should include, as applicable across primary and post-primary, Standardised Testing, Capitation, Digital Strategy ICT, Deontas Breise Gaeilge, Free School Books, School Services Support Fund, Programme grants and DEIS grants.
Special Education
As the SET allocation model has been in place since 2017 based on a 2014 NCSE report, my department believed a review of the model was prudent. The department commenced a review in late 2022 to ensure that the model was meeting the changing needs in special education.
The review examined the following:
• The individual inputs (components) of the model
• The validity and reliability of the data used for each component
• Feedback from our education partners and individual schools
The review of the SET allocation model further identified that a programme of continuous development was required to ensure that the model was delivering effectively, both in supporting the changing needs in the education system, and for individual schools.
A high level roadmap has been discussed and agreed with our education partners during a series of consultations to enhance the inputs and improve the sensitivity of the model.
The journey of enhancement begins with the 2024/25 allocation by ensuring that the model has a strong foundation.
The key to building a solid foundation is ensuring that the data, for each pillar within the model, is already available to the department and provided by schools. Where data used in the model is received from external sources, it is critical that the information is being received on a consistent basis.
Upon examination of each of the five components used in the model, concerns were identified in relation to two of them, namely gender and complex needs.
Gender was included as a component in the 2017 allocation model on the basis that in Ireland, just as in other jurisdictions, there appeared to be a higher incidence of special educational needs in males.
However, in the intervening period since the model was introduced, there have been developments in research in this area and also in the perception of gender. It is now accepted that the female pupils may have a similar level of need and that this need is becoming apparent at later stages in their growth and development.
The complex needs input, which was introduced in the 2017 model, was predicated on the provision of data from the HSE Children Disability Network Teams on children entering junior infants with special education needs who were assessed or triaged for a waiting list for assessment.
The review highlighted concerns in relation to the veracity and the consistency of the data provided on a national basis by the CDNT. This resulted in the potential for significant variations from one area of the country to another. In addition, it is not possible to verify whether all data reported relates solely to educational need as distinct from care needs, which are resourced through the Special Needs Assistant allocation process, or medical needs.
To ensure that schools are not negatively impacted by these issues, all existing hours assigned for complex needs are being maintained for each school and future data from the CDNT will not be used as a value in the model. This is being done by reapportioning this value at individual school level across the remaining pillars with an emphasis on the Literacy and Numeracy category which demonstrates where additional teaching supports are required. This exercise strengthens the model to give a sustainable allocation to schools, which recognises where there are significant learning needs.
At primary, the Educational Teaching needs profile is calculated based on educational outcome (STen) data which are collected and held within schools and submitted to the Department of Education. At post primary, the data used is Junior Cycle results. Hence, the profiles are directly correlated to, and focused on, pupils with the greatest level of teaching need in the areas of literacy and numeracy.
In addition, to ensure children with the greatest level of need are addressed by the model all pupils who are marked as exempt (approx. 1% of the population) are included as STen 1 to ensure that the school receives an allocation to support them. STen 1 & 2 scores (including exempted) would align in general to pupils in our education system who are in need of the greatest level of teaching support.
In addition, over the last number of years we have seen significant growth in special classes from 548 in 2011 to 2,921 in 2024, with 390 opened in the past year alone. We have also opened new special schools with 130 special schools nationwide with an enrolment of over 8,700 students. A significant number of pupils who were previously supported in mainstream are now supported in these settings.
These elements of the continuum of education provision are resourced separately to the SET model.
My department is committed to ongoing engagement with our education partners in relation to future developments and enhancements to the SET model. The Department acknowledges that every school is different, and that schools can experience unique circumstances that may be difficult to reflect in any standardised method. This is always a challenge when making allocations in respect of 4,000 schools. It is for this reason that the Department, working with the NCSE has streamlined the review process for special education teachers and schools who have any concerns can engage with the NCSE on their allocation. My department is very much aware that additional data is available in individual schools which may not be available consistently across all schools and a key focus of the roadmap is to develop an accurate and verifiable system to capture such data.
A phased high level plan has been compiled to further enhance the model over the coming years.
My department intends to undertake further detailed consultations with our education partners in the development of future enhancements to the model. The initial focus will be on areas such as:
• Examination of additional potential data sets already available in schools or other areas within the early years settings that could support greater sensitivity in the model.
• Development of a revised process for resourcing new schools and those in early stages of development
• Development of a mechanism for transfer of resources from primary to post primary based on changing demographics
• Examination of geographically isolated schools
• Delivery of a package of training and supports on the use of the continuum and education passports
In the context of an inclusive education, and in recognition of the significant growth in special classes and special schools, further work is required to consider SET and special school/class resources to align with the needs of all children.
In further phases, it is intended that my department, in consultation with education partners, will examine an ongoing continuous improvement process that can give schools more input into identifying the need in their school in the most efficient way possible.
202. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Education to examine a pension matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27885/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person concerned is an employee of an Education & Training Board (ETB) and, therefore, it is a matter for the relevant ETB to ensure their pensionable employees are assigned to the correct pension scheme and that the correct contributions, as provided for in the relevant legislation, are deducted.
Additional Superannuation Contribution (ASC) was introduced on 1 January 2019 and is provided for under Part 4 of the Public Service Pay and Pensions Act 2017. In this regard, an employer is obliged to apply the appropriate rates.
The rate of ASC payable varies depending on the public service pension scheme of which an individual is a member. I understand that in this case the individual concerned was originally assigned to the wrong pension scheme, and due to the error, an underpayment of ASC arose.
The individual concerned should engage with their employer whom I trust will provide sensitivity and flexibility in putting arrangements in place to recoup outstanding monies.
203. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Education if additional supports could be put in place at a facility (details supplied) for a student who has a diagnosis of autism and an intellectual disability and is non-verbal. [27899/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.
The NCSE is responsible for planning and coordinating school supports for children with special educational needs including the allocation of Special Needs Assistants (SNAs). SNAs are allocated to schools as a school based resource and schools deploy SNAs in a manner which best meets the care support requirements of their students.
My department is aware of an application from the school for additional supports and the NCSE will be in direct contact with the school regarding the application.
204. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Education the reason a school (details supplied) has been denied opening a second ASD class despite demand and now six children have been denied a class place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27916/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.
The NCSE has advised my department that this school recently expressed an interest in opening a second special class. The NCSE actively encourages expressions of interest from schools to open special classes, and I appreciate and commend the efforts taken by boards of management in expressing their interest.
When considering to establish a special class the NCSE assess the needs in the local area. The NCSE identify schools in the neighbouring vicinity with available special class vacancies and assess their capability with consideration to demographical and statistical data. The NCSE advise my department that there are schools in the local area with existing vacancies.
The NCSE acknowledge that circumstances may change, and they are committed to ensuring that both the parents and the school receive the necessary advice and support.
383 new special classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE for the 2024/25 school year, of these 8 are in county Mayo. this brings the overall number of special classes in the county to 73.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to contact the NCSE locally so that their needs can be taken into account for planning purposes. Local special educational needs organisers (SENOs) are available to assist and advise parents of children with special educational needs and can be contacted directly using the details available on the NCSE’s website.
205. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Education the measures she is taking to establish a special school to serve the identifiable need across Dublin 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27923/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for this government. It is also a key priority for my department and for the National Council for Special Education (NCSE).
The vast majority of children with special educational needs are supported to attend mainstream classes with their peers. Where children with more complex needs require additional supports, special classes and special school places are provided.
The new special schools established over recent years have focused on providing additional places in our largest urban areas: Dublin and Cork. The most recent of these new special schools to open was An Cosán Special School in Dublin 7 which opened in May.
Prior to this, both Our Lady of Hope special school in Crumlin and Libermann special school in Templeogue have opened in recent years. Libermann special school are expanding to take an additional 12 students for the coming school year and a new school building project is being planned which will support over 150 students in this new special school. Capacity is also being expanded in a number of other special schools across Dublin.
My department and NCSE continue to work on expanding special school capacity for the 2024/25 school year and beyond. In planning for increased special school places, the department and NCSE review all of the available data on the growing need for special school places across the country. This involves a detailed analysis of enrolment trends and the potential for existing special schools in a region to expand.
An important consideration when deciding to establish or expand provision in an existing special school is the distances that some students are travelling in order to access a special school placement.
My department and the NCSE are continually reviewing where additional capacity is required in existing special schools or in what regions a new special school may need to be established over the coming years.
It is estimated that a further 300 new special school places may be required each year for the coming years. When looking to provide additional capacity the department’s preferred option is to increase provision in existing special schools if possible.
