Paul Donnelly
Ceist:388. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the CEO or other senior officials from major companies he spoke with during the recent World Economic Forum in Davos. [2891/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraDepartmental Meetings
Ceisteanna (388)
Freagraí scríofa
My attendance at this year's World Economic Forum (WEF) in January involved engagements with global CEOs of existing multinationals already in Ireland, as well as CEOs of potential future FDI companies as follows:
• Astra Zeneca - Pam Cheng (Global Operations and Information Technology and Chief Sustainability Officer) and Marc Dunoyer (Chief Strategy Officer).
• PayPal - Richard Nash (Head of Public Policy).
• Anthropic - Sarah Heck (Head of Policy Planning).
• CISCO - Oliver Tuszik (President for EMEA).
• TikTok - Christine Grahn (VP Public Policy) and Adam Presser (Chief Operations Officer).
• CocaCola - Michael Goltzman (SVP Global Policy and Sustainability).
• Liberty Global - Manuel Kohnstamm (Chief Corporate Affairs Officer) and,
• Orsted - Rasmus Errboe (Deputy CEO).
Participation each year at the WEF represents another opportunity for Ireland – at both political and IDA levels - to engage with leading multinational companies, as well as leading policymakers and influential economic thinkers, in support of retaining and growing the FDI base across Ireland, and driving further innovation across our island. In my engagements, I emphasised Ireland’s capabilities as a strong, vibrant economy that is well-placed to manage external shocks, while also highlighting how our educated and talented workforce can make a unique contribution to innovation and development for FDI companies located in Ireland.
Weather Events
Ceisteanna (389)
Louis O'Hara
Ceist:389. Deputy Louis O'Hara asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if financial assistance is available to businesses such as restaurants that lost perishable stock during storm Éowyn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2946/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I recognise that many businesses have experienced significant weather impacts and recent disruption to their operations. Officials from my Department continue to engage with the National Emergency Coordination Group to respond to these weather events.
Additionally, my Department has monitored impacts at a local level, including through the proactive work by the Local Enterprise Offices. I and my officials are continuing to engage with the business community.
It is our understanding that in the majority of cases the primary impacts arising for businesses (damage to property, loss of earnings and/or spoilage to stock) will be covered by the business insurance that the businesses in question will have taken out. This should be the first recourse for businesses that have incurred financial losses as a result of recent weather events.
We will continue to monitor the position across the country and as individual businesses work through their claims with their insurers, to consider if there is a need for additional support from the Government.
The Government does recognise that businesses may have had recent challenges in addressing filing and compliance obligations and given the impact of Storm Eowyn it is appropriate to adopt a flexible, responsive and pragmatic approach. While all public bodies are taking a flexible approach, it is useful to highlight two specific agencies that may be of particular relevance to the business sector.
The Revenue Commissioners are aware that the exceptional weather events have caused difficulties for many and understands that this disruption can impact timely tax compliance. Revenue will work with those taxpayers and businesses that have been adversely impacted by Storms Éowyn and Herminia, to ensure that good compliance records can remain on track despite the disruption caused. Revenue’s Collector-General’s office can be contacted on 01 738 3663, or through MyEnquiries.
The Companies Registration Office is aware that certain areas of the country have been badly impacted by power outages caused by Storm Eowyn. As a result, the Companies Registration Office is aware that some companies have encountered difficulties when filing their annual returns with the Companies Registration Office. If the person presenting company filings is in an area that has been affected by the power outages caused by Storm Éowyn, please contact Companies Registration Office at annualreturns@cro.ie and we will endeavour to assist you where possible.
Ministerial Staff
Ceisteanna (390)
Aidan Farrelly
Ceist:390. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to provide a schedule of special advisers attached to him, as of 29 January 2025; and the official grade and or title held by that special adviser. [2995/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As of 29 January 2025, the below special advisors have been attached to me as Minister for Enterprise; Trade and Employment.
Laura Mannion, Special Advisor (PO).
Brian Keegan, Policy Advisor (PO).
Both advisors are on the PO PPC payscale.
Post Office Network
Ceisteanna (391)
Noel McCarthy
Ceist:391. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason privately owned post offices are ineligible to receive his Department’s increased cost of business and Power Up grants; if he has any plans to make changes in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3106/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In order to get payments to businesses before the end of 2024, the Power Up grant was aligned with the ICOB scheme and a business must have received the second ICOB grant and be in the hospitality, retail and beauty sectors in order to receive the Power Up grant. If a business was not in those sectors they were not eligible for the Power Up grant.
The reason for payments to those specific sectors is due to the greater impact that increased costs are having on the hospitality and retail and beauty sectors (As noted in the DETE-DSP joint working paper titled “An assessment of the cumulative impact of proposed measures to improve working conditions in Ireland”).
The Department used NACE codes to determine eligibility for those sectors. The NACE Coder is a European classification system that assigns organisations according to their business activities. These Codes are the only method for officials to define sectors and these were used for the ICOB second payment determinations. Post Offices are not eligible for the second payment as their primary business is not in the retail or hospitality or beauty sector, as per the NACE Codes used to define business categories.
The Department has no plans to reopen the scheme as the scheme closed to registrations in 2024.
Weather Events
Ceisteanna (392)
Mairéad Farrell
Ceist:392. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if additional supports will be given to businesses that have had to close due to the effects of storm Éowyn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3152/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I recognise that many businesses have experienced significant weather impacts and recent disruption to their operations. Officials from my Department continue to engage with the National Emergency Coordination Group to respond to these weather events.
Additionally, my Department has monitored impacts at a local level, including through the proactive work by the Local Enterprise Offices. I and my officials are continuing to engage with the business community. It is our understanding that in the majority of cases the primary impacts arising for businesses (damage to property, loss of earnings and/or spoilage to stock) should in the normal course be covered by business insurance that the businesses in question will have taken out. This should be the first recourse for businesses that have incurred financial losses as a result of recent weather events.
We will continue to monitor the position across the country and as individual businesses work through their claims with their insurers, to consider if there is a need for additional support from the Government.
The Government does recognise that businesses may have had recent challenges in addressing filing and compliance obligations and given the impact of Storm Eowyn it is appropriate to adopt a flexible, responsive and pragmatic approach. While all public bodies are taking a flexible approach, it is useful to highlight two specific agencies that may be of particular relevance to the business sector.
The Revenue Commissioners are aware that the exceptional weather events have caused difficulties for many and understands that this disruption can impact timely tax compliance. Revenue will work with those taxpayers and businesses that have been adversely impacted by Storms Éowyn and Herminia, to ensure that good compliance records can remain on track despite the disruption caused. Revenue’s Collector-General’s office can be contacted on 01 738 3663, or through MyEnquiries.
The Companies Registration Office is aware that certain areas of the country have been badly impacted by power outages caused by Storm Eowyn. As a result, the Companies Registration Office is aware that some companies have encountered difficulties when filing their annual returns with the Companies Registration Office. If the person presenting company filings is in an area that has been affected by the power outages caused by Storm Éowyn, please contact Companies Registration Office at annualreturns@cro.ie and we will endeavour to assist you where possible.
Departmental Contracts
Ceisteanna (393)
Denise Mitchell
Ceist:393. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department, or any body under its aegis, currently outsources cleaning services and-or service officer or security officer roles to private companies; the value and length of any related contract, by body, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3194/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I can confirm that my Department and the Offices under its aegis currently outsource cleaning services and/or service officer/security officer roles to private companies, the details are set out in the table below:
|
Office Name |
Location |
Contractor |
Service Provided |
Period of Contract |
Value of Contract |
|
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment |
Earlsfort Centre |
Bidvest Noonan |
Security |
July 2024 to February 2025 with option to extend for further six months |
€17,000.00 for first six months |
|
Workplace Relations Commission |
WRC premises in Dublin, Cork, Carlow, Ennis and Sligo |
Allpro Services |
Cleaning |
June 2024 to May 2026 with option to extend for further two years |
€375,000.00 for full period of contract (including potential extended two years) |
|
Companies Registration Office |
Bloom House |
Grosvenor Cleaning Services Ltd. |
Cleaning |
May 2024 to May 2026 with option to extend for a further two years |
€130,000.00 for full period of contract (including potential extended two years) |
Outsourcing of services by any agencies under the aegis of the Department is an operational matter for each individual agency. The agencies under the aegis of the Department have been contacted and requested to respond directly to the Deputy within 10 days of this question being answered.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Orders.
I refer to Parliamentary Question 3194/25 for answer on 05 February 2025 where I indicated that additional time would be needed to obtain the requested information, which is set out in the table below. “To ask the Minister for Enterprise; Trade and Employment if his Department, or any body under its aegis, currently outsources cleaning services and/or service officer/security officer roles to private companies; the value and length of any related contract, by body, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter.”
I am informed that agencies under the aegis of my Department currently outsource cleaning services and/or service officer/security officer roles to private companies as follows:
I trust this is of assistance to you.
Departmental Contracts
Ceisteanna (394)
Denise Mitchell
Ceist:394. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department, or any body under its aegis, currently directly employs cleaners and-or service officers; if so, the number of staff employed in each role; the value and length of any related contract, by body, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3212/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Yes, my Department directly employs cleaners and service officers. The below table shows the number of staff currently employed in each role and the length of such contracts.
The value of each contract is based on the pay scales shown in the circular at the link:
Value of contracts Enterprise, Trade and Employment
|
Role |
Number of staff employed |
Length of related contract |
|
Head Service Officer |
1 |
Full time – Permanent Contract |
|
Deputy Head Service Officer |
4 |
Full time – Permanent Contract |
|
Service Officer |
21 |
Full time – Permanent Contract |
|
Service Attendant |
3 |
Full time – Permanent Contract |
|
Cleaner |
12 |
Full time – Permanent Contract |
Oireachtas Members' Expenses
Ceisteanna (395)
Ged Nash
Ceist:395. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the total value of the annual mileage claims for each Minister of State assigned to his Department in 2023 and 2024, respectively; to provide a breakdown for each year of the individual claims; the annual cost of overnight allowances related to the civilian drivers of each relevant Minister of State in 2023 and 2024; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3248/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The table below provides the total value of annual mileage claims for Ministers of State appointed to my Department in 2023 and 2024 and the cost of overnight allowances relating to civilian drivers of each relevant Minister of State in 2023 and 2024 requested by the Deputy.
|
Minister of State |
2023 Mileage Claimed |
2024 Mileage Claimed |
|
MoS Dara Calleary |
€16,584.81 |
€11,685.98 |
|
MoS Damien English |
€1,488.94 |
|
|
MoS Neale Richmond |
€10,255.69 |
€4,122.77 |
|
MoS Emer Higgins |
€4,920.75 |
|
|
2023 Overnight Allowance |
2024 Overnight Allowance |
|
|
Civilian Driver 1 for Mos Dara Calleary |
€16,700 |
€9,512.50 |
|
Civilian Driver 2 for Mos Dara Calleary |
€7,682 |
€5,571.00 |
|
Civilian Driver for MoS Emer Higgins |
€1,755.00 |
I would advise the Deputy that the aforementioned claims were in accordance with the set terms and conditions.
Departmental Staff
Ceisteanna (396)
Ged Nash
Ceist:396. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to list the composition of his private office, inclusive of the grade and increment of each civil servant assigned to the office; whether they are located in the private or constituency office; the value of any allowance paid to those individuals and the purpose of each allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3266/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The below table shows the composition of my private office; inclusive of the grade and increment of each civil servant assigned to my office; their location, either in the private or constituency office and the value of any allowance paid to those individuals and the purpose of each allowance.
|
Grade |
Grade Equivalent |
Increment |
Allowance |
|
HEO |
HEO - Private Office |
Officer is on step 5 - Higher Executive Officer Standard Scale PPC scale |
Private Secretary to Minister PPC - 20,685 |
|
EO |
EO - Private Office |
No further increment due, Officer is on the max of the Executive Officer trainee analyst higher scale |
N/A |
|
EO |
EO - Private Office |
No further increment due, Officer is on the max of the (EO) salary scale |
N/A |
|
CO |
CO - Private Office |
No further increment due, Officer is on the max of the (CO) salary scale |
N/A |
|
CO |
CO - Private Office |
No further increment due, Officer is on the max of the (CO Higher) salary scale |
N/A |
|
CO |
CO - Private Office |
Officer is on step 2 of Clerical Officer PPC scale |
N/A |
|
CO |
CO - Private Office |
No further increment due, Officer is on the max of the (CO Higher) salary scale |
N/A |
|
CO |
CO - Private Office |
Officer is on step 1 of Clerical Officer PPC scale |
N/A |
|
CO |
CO - Constituency Office |
Officer is on step 2 of Clerical Officer PPC scale |
N/A |
|
Minister’s Special Advisor |
PO |
Officer is on step 1 of PRINCIPAL – PPC scale |
N/A |
|
Minister’s Special Advisor |
PO |
Office is on step 4 of PRINCIPAL – PPC scale |
N/A |
Departmental Bodies
Ceisteanna (397)
Ged Nash
Ceist:397. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the actions an agency under his aegis (details supplied) plans to take in relation to a matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3407/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Corporate Enforcement Agency (CEA) was established in July 2022 under the Companies Act 2014. The CEA’s functions include encouraging compliance with the Act, investigating suspected offences, summary prosecution of detected breaches, referring cases to the Director of Public Prosecutions for prosecution, exercising a supervisory role over the activities of liquidators and receivers, and operating a regime of restriction and disqualification undertakings in respect of directors of insolvent companies. The CEA is equipped with significant enforcement powers to enable it to carry out its functions.
The CEA is independent in the delivery of its functions, and the Minister does not have information on specific investigations.
Tourism Policy
Ceisteanna (398)
James Geoghegan
Ceist:398. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he supports the introduction or enforcement of levies such as a tourist tax as set out in the Dublin City Taskforce as a measure which could assist in funding the implementation of the recommendations in the Dublin City Taskforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3471/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Dublin City Taskforce report is available at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/eb20b-dublin-city-taskforce/ and its recommendations are being considered by a working group of senior officials from across government under the leadership of the Department of the Taoiseach.
The issue of a tourism accommodation levy on short-term stays in paid accommodation is a multi-faceted one from a tourism perspective.
The tourism sector generates very significant revenues for the Exchequer and the introduction of such a levy would need careful consideration given the importance of inbound international tourism to Ireland's economy. A tourism accommodation levy would have to take account of issues such as who would pay; for example, whether it would be limited to international visitors or would it be extended to all tourists including domestic visitors. It cannot be considered independently of our general taxation system which is primarily the responsibility of the Minister for Finance. The geographic scope of such a measure would also be an issue. Other issues arising include the collection mechanism and its potential administrative impact on accommodation providers.
How the revenue raised from such a levy could be applied in support of the recommendations of the report would also require close examination. I look forward to engaging, within my own Department and across government, with the recommendations in due course.
Redundancy Payments
Ceisteanna (399)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:399. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a company (details supplied) has notified him of redundancies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3492/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department has not received a collective redundancy notification from the company.
The rules governing collective redundancies are set out in the Protection of Employment Act 1977, as amended. Collective redundancies arise where, during any period of 30 consecutive days, the employees being made redundant are:
• 5 employees where 21-49 are employed,
• 10 employees where 50-99 are employed,
• 10% of the employees where 100-299 are employed,
• 30 employees where 300 or more are employed.
Other redundancies outside of these parameters are not required to be notified to the Minister.
Employers must comply with a number of obligations when proposing collective redundancies. Section 12 of the Act provides that employers proposing a collective redundancy must notify the Minister of the proposed collective redundancy at least 30 days before the first dismissal takes effect.
Employers must also consult with and provide information to employees and their representatives. This consultation period must last at least 30 days and employers may not issue notices of redundancy during this period.
Departmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (400)
Brendan Smith
Ceist:400. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when approval will issue to local authorities to issue payments to the remainder of outstanding applications under the 2024 increased cost of business scheme which were due to be issued before the end of 2024; if this matter will be finalised without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3554/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Increased Cost of Business (ICOB) scheme closed on 29th May 2024 following an extension to the deadline to allow those who missed the first closing date a second chance to register. All eligible businesses were paid the ICOB grant in 2024 and the scheme is now closed.
The Power Up grant opened for registrations on 24 October 2024 and was aligned with the ICOB scheme in order to get payments out to eligible businesses before the end of 2024. In total, the Increased Cost of Business and Power Up grant schemes paid out over €400 million in 2024.
A small cohort of businesses were scheduled for payment in 2025 and those payments are currently being processed.
My Department is aware of issues that have arisen during the registration period , in particular, in relation to businesses that were ineligible for the grant due to incorrect classification of their business type while registering for ICOB. The Department is currently reviewing the issues that have arisen and will consider next steps in consultation with the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform and the local authorities.
Business Supports
Ceisteanna (401)
Barry Heneghan
Ceist:401. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports that are being offered to small businesses to promote local economic growth and job creation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3604/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to backing businesses and will continue to work closely with small businesses to support their growth, help them to find new markets, create jobs and take on the twin challenges of decarbonisation and digitalisation.
The Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), located within each of the 31 Local Authorities, play an extremely important role at local level, as part of a supportive ecosystem, providing their services to small businesses, promoting entrepreneurship and contributing to jobs growth within towns and communities across the county. The LEO provides a signposting service for all government supports available to small businesses and can provide information/referrals to other relevant bodies.
The LEO Policy Statement 2024 – 2030 captures the current level of activity of LEOs nationwide and outlines an agreed approach on how their work will adapt to contribute to the implementation of five of the priorities of the White Paper on Enterprise – decarbonisation, digitalisation, increasing exporters, enabling the locally traded sector to thrive, and stepping up enterprise innovation.
The 2024 Annual Employment Survey of LEO clients has once again shown positive job creation across most of the Local Enterprise Offices. LEO supported companies created 7,104 new jobs in 2024 which represents a 7% increase in employment from 2023. There was a net employment gain of 2,459 for the year and 81% of the new jobs created in 2024 were located outside of Dublin. This shows again how vital the LEOs are to the development of our indigenous enterprises and is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff of the 31 Local Enterprise Offices.
The figures accounted for in these results are only LEO clients that have received direct financial grant assistance from their LEO and does not include the number of small businesses and associated jobs that have received training, mentoring or other supports such as the Grow Digital Voucher, Green for Business, Lean for Business, Digital for Business and Energy Efficiency Grants (EEG).
The National Enterprise Hub (NEH) which provides a centralised signposting service for over 230 Government supports. This excellent resource is available to all small business owners and can provide information and a point of contact to relevant government bodies.
Departmental Policies
Ceisteanna (402)
Barry Heneghan
Ceist:402. Deputy Barry Heneghan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if measures will be introduced to encourage consumers to shop locally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3605/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Towns and villages throughout Ireland act as social and economic hubs, providing employment and supporting businesses. Making these local towns attractive to shoppers is important and buying locally sustains local economies and supports the growth of jobs and vibrant communities.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions around retail and other impacted businesses and sectors, the Local Enterprise Office launched a ‘Look for Local’ campaign in 2020 to encourage businesses to see what local suppliers had available to them, particularly when at the time there was ongoing international supply chain issues. As part of that campaign, consumers were encouraged to Look for Local when they were purchasing gifts, services and experiences at Christmas.
Town Centre First is a Government policy published in 2022 that aims to regenerate towns across Ireland, creating town centres that are viable, vibrant, and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit. By investing in town centres, Town Centre First enables towns to thrive and to reach their full potential, while functioning as the service, social, cultural, and recreational hub for the local community.
Implementation of the Town Centre First policy lies with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Department of Rural and Community Development.
Departmental Staff
Ceisteanna (403)
Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Ceist:403. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures his Department is taking to encourage civil servants in his Department to take or avail of special leave or career breaks, or other forms of leave to encourage and facilitate Ireland's 2026 EU presidency, the Government "Career for EU" jobs strategy, and the Department's Gaeilge/Irish-language policy and promotion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3934/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The policy in my Department, is to release staff on secondment to work in the EU institutions to facilitate Ireland’s 2026 EU Presidency. We do not regard this as special leave or career break.
In 2024, my Department ran two internal competitions at Assistant Principal and Higher Executive Officer/Administrative Officer grade to increase the Departments presence in the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the EU in Brussels (PRB) in the lead up to the 2026 presidency where two panels were established at the respective grades. 4 senior positions have already been filled with the deployment of 4 Assistant Principal Officers on the 27th of Jan. The remaining panellists (3 Assistant Principals, 1 Higher Executive Officer & 2 Administrative Officers) are to be assigned to their new posts in the PRB in the Summer of 2025.
In regards to the Government "Career for EU" jobs strategy and in line with the strategies aim to increase the number of Irish officials in both permanent and temporary positions within the EU Institutions, my Department have ensured that all departmental staff are made aware of the career opportunities available to them via the Seconded National Experts (SNE) vacancies, where these vacancies closely align with the strategic relevance of my departments remit.
The final provisions of the Official Languages (Amendment) Act 2021 came into effect on 21 December 2024. My Department is fully committed to the Official Languages (Amendment) Act 2021. A member of Senior Management at Principal Officer level has been appointed to oversee performance and report on the Department’s obligations under the Official Languages Acts and will continue to keep staff informed as new provisions are implemented.
My Department is currently preparing a statutory return in line with the new obligations under section 10A (Advertising by Public Bodies) requiring a minimum of 20% of all advertising undertaken to be in the Irish language and that 5% of annual advertising spend on Irish language.
In order to ensure that my Department is accessible and capable of engaging with all customers proficiently, Irish Language Training is provided by the Learning and Development Unit through OneLearning, the Civil Service Language and Development Centre. This training is being delivered to ensure that my Department has a cohort of staff who can assist business units to respond to clients who may wish to communicate through the medium of Irish.
The Gaeilge Section is continuously looking at ways in which my Department can promote the Irish language across my Department informally and we reach out to our colleagues for new suggestions/feedback.
Promoting the use of the Irish language in DETE
• DETE staff volunteer their Irish language services to assist my Department conduct its business through Irish by translating short documents/letters and accepting telephone calls in Irish. There are currently eight such volunteers.
• DETE have contracted a reputable outside provider for Irish language translations ensuring a quality translation service is readily available.
• To coincide with the Seachtain na Gaeilge festival week, DETE promotes the calendar of events and also runs a number of social events in DETE through the Irish language.
• DETE’s Learning and Development Unit offers accredited Irish language training to all staff.
• DETE’s informal social events include virtual tea breaks and an annual Christmas table quiz run through Irish. The objective is to provide staff with an opportunity to enhance their Irish language skills in an informal, non-classroom, environment.
My Department is a client of Gaelchultúr; the largest provider of Irish language courses worldwide. Gaelchultúr is committed to promoting the use of Irish and to the development of improved language services while offering several training courses designed specifically for Public Sector bodies. My Department’s Learning and Career Development Unit works closely with Gaelchultúr to ensure timely promotion of courses and highly encourages participation among staff members. The Learning and Career Development Unit also promotes extra-curricular activities such as Gaeltacht attendance, as appropriate.
My Department continues to be committed to providing a quality service to the public through the medium of the Irish language having regard to the demand for services in Irish. My Department’s internal Customer Service Unit has responsibility for promotion of the Official Languages Act and regularly holds information sessions to raise awareness and compliance with same. The Customer Service Unit also regularly holds informal events for staff who wish to converse via the Irish Language.
Departmental Staff
Ceisteanna (404, 527)
Jennifer Murnane O'Connor
Ceist:404. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Education the number of requests to her Department that were granted for various matters (details supplied); the number of such requests that have been refused; and the grounds on which they have were refused. [2499/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraJennifer Murnane O'Connor
Ceist:527. Deputy Jennifer Murnane O'Connor asked the Minister for Education the measures her Department is taking to encourage civil servants in her Department to take or avail of special leave or career breaks, or other forms of leave to encourage and facilitate Ireland's 2026 EU Presidency, the Government "Career for EU" jobs strategy, and the Department's Gaeilge-Irish language policy and promotion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3953/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 404 and 527 together.
Delivering a successful Presidency of the Council of the European Union (EU) from July to December 2026 requires extensive preparatory work and significant resources. An important element of this is to ensure that there are sufficient staffing resources in place, both in Dublin and in Brussels at the Permanent Representation to the EU, to enable us to prepare and deliver a high-quality Education Presidency together and to manage its implementation.
The Department of Education is currently establishing the resource requirements, including our staffing needs arising from the EU Presidency role. The Presidency team in the Department of Education is being led by the International Unit along with the Education Attaché in the Permanent Representation of Ireland to the EU. This team has been engaged with the EU Presidency central planning process that is being coordinated by the Department of Foreign Affairs which includes discussion on staffing requirements. In addition, discussions are ongoing between the Presidency team and the Human Resources (HR) Unit of this department on the resourcing requirements associated with the EU Presidency.
Since 2024, no applications have been made for special leave or career breaks to facilitate Ireland's 2026 EU presidency, the Career for EU jobs strategy, the Gaeilge/Irish-language policy or to accompany a spouse to take up a temporary post in an EU institution. Where such applications are made, these will be given favourable consideration in line with central policies on special leave/career breaks for civil servants, the business needs of the department, career development opportunities for staff members and of course wider Government priorities.
School Accommodation
Ceisteanna (405)
John Connolly
Ceist:405. Deputy John Connolly asked the Minister for Education for an update on the emergency works application of a school (details supplied). [2167/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The school to which the Deputy refers submitted applications for funding under the Emergency Works Scheme (EWS) for roof works and fabric defect works.
The application regarding roof works was refused on the basis that the school in question was asked to provide further information illustrating evidence of leaks. This information has not been provided as of yet. If the school can provide this information to the Department's EWS team the application can be assessed further and the school has also been informed of this.
The application regarding fabric defects, is currently being reviewed by the technical team within the EWS.
Once a technical recommendation has been made the EWS team will engage further with the school as appropriate. The EWS team is aware of the urgent nature of the works required and will keep the school informed throughout the process.
School Staff
Ceisteanna (406)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:406. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education if an SNA post for a school (details supplied) will be filled as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2181/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Enabling 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 NCSE has the responsibility for planning and coordinating school supports for children with special educational needs including the allocation of Special needs assistants (SNAs).
SNAs play a central role in the successful inclusion of students with additional and significant care needs into schools. They help ensure that these students can access an education to enable them to achieve their best outcomes and reach their full potential.
Schools can apply to the NCSE for a review of its SNA allocation if it is insufficient to meet the needs of its students. Detailed information on the NCSE exceptional review process is published on the NCSE website.
The NCSE manages the exceptional review process and handles each case individually. Some review requests can be concluded as an office-based exercise, whilst others require a school to be visited in order to observe the current deployment of SNA support in the school setting.
The NCSE has confirmed that a review was recently carried out at the school referred to by the deputy and the school will be notified this week of the outcome.
Following the outcome of the review, the NCSE will make the local special educational needs officer (SENO) available to the school to discuss the deployment of special educational supports in the local area and to discuss how to put these supports to the best advantage of its students. NCSE in-school support is also available to schools to offer further guidance and support.
My department and the NCSE are committed to delivering an education system that is of the highest quality and where every child and young person feels valued and is actively supported and nurtured to reach their full potential.
Weather Events
Ceisteanna (407)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:407. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education the number of primary and post primary schools in north Offaly that were forced to close during the severe cold weather the country experienced from 6 to 10 January 2025, in tabular form. [2186/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The decision to close a school in response to a severe weather event is a matter for individual school management authorities around the country, taking into consideration the full guidance and direction available from the principal response agencies, especially the local authority. Individual school management authorities are best placed to do this in light of local weather conditions, which can vary significantly in regions. Any decision to close is taken in the interest of child safety, having assessed the local risks and having consulted, as appropriate, with school transport operators.
Guidance is available to schools on responding to severe weather on the Winter Ready website provided by the Office of Emergency Planning as part of the whole of government response to severe weather experienced in recent years via the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/e1d49a-schools-and-severe-weather-be-winter-ready/
The Departments guidance for schools in relation to making up for time lost due to unforeseen closures, which includes unforeseen closures due to weather conditions, is set out in appendix B of Circular 0072/2022 available via the following link: www.gov.ie/en/circular/0a2b0-standardisation-of-the-school-year-in-respect-of-primary-post-primary-schools-for-the-years-202324-202425-and-202526/
As outlined in Circular 0072/2022, significant flexibility is given to schools to make up tuition hours lost due to unforeseen circumstances.
The Department does not seek the data requested by the Deputy from schools.
Special Educational Needs
Ceisteanna (408)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:408. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education for an update on the third special class at a school (details supplied). [2190/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As you are aware enabling children with special educational needs to receive an education is a priority for government. Thanks to considerable investment in special education in recent years 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 National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility for coordinating and advising on the education provision for children with special educational needs. Almost 1,700 classes have been sanctioned by the NCSE in the last 5 years, 11 new special schools have been established and many more expanded. For this school year alone over 400 new special classes have been sanctioned bringing the total number of special classes nationwide to over 3,330.
In relation to the school referred to by the Deputy, the NCSE has confirmed that the school has received sanction to open a third special class. My department’s Planning and Building Unit is engaging with the school in relation to the school’s additional accommodation requirements. This engagement will continue with a view to addressing the school’s accommodation needs. The local SENO also remains in contact with schools and a number of parents in the area and its surrounds.
Parents seeking special class placements for their children are advised to contact the NCSE locally for planning purposes. Local SENO's are available to assist and advise parents and can provide details on schools with available special educational places. Parents may contact SENO's directly using the contact details available on the NCSE website.
My department and the NCSE are committed to ensuring that sufficient special education placements will be available for children for this school year and future years.
School Accommodation
Ceisteanna (409)
Paul Donnelly
Ceist:409. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Education the timeline for the new school (details supplied) where children, staff and teachers are finding it difficult to continue using prefabs indefinitely and in particular in cold weather conditions. [2191/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The current position in respect of the joint major building project referred to by the Deputy is as follows;
The major project for St. John Bosco Boys JNS, St. John Bosco SNS, and Mary Help of Christians GNS is currently at Stage 2(a) of Architectural Planning - Developed Design - which is a crucial element of the architectural planning process as it is at this stage that the design is developed to a stage where it can be fully cost planned and prepared to lodge for statutory approvals.
The Stage 2(a) submission was received in the Department during the summer of 2024, and the Stage 2(a) Stakeholders meeting took place on Wednesday 16th October, with representatives from the 3 schools Board of Management, the Design Team and Department officials invited to attend.
Following that meeting, the Design Team are progressing to address the Department comments.
The Department is committed to progressing this project through architectural planning, and is supporting the design team in preparing the project design so that it can apply for all statutory approvals, including planning permission.
Until the project design is at a stage where statutory approvals, planning permission, etc are secured by the Design Team, it will not be possible to provide an estimated onsite date.
Department officials have been in contact with the school authorities in respect of their current accommodation and are supporting the individual schools regarding essential emergency works.
School Admissions
Ceisteanna (410)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:410. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Education if she will ensure a child (details supplied) has a secondary school place in September 2025. [2271/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department’s main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places in the area.
Parents have the right to choose which school to apply to and where the school has places available for the relevant year, the student should be admitted. However, in schools where there are more applicants than places available, a selection process will be necessary. This selection process and the enrolment policy on which it is based must be non-discriminatory and must be applied fairly in respect of all applicants. However, this may result in some students not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
In accordance with the provisions of the Education (Admission to Schools) Act 2018, schools are required to clearly set out their selection criteria in their admission policies. The criteria to be applied by schools and the order of priority are a matter for the schools themselves. It is an important feature of the act that schools can only make a decision on an application for admission that is based on the school’s admission policy.
Under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, the parent of the student, or in the case of a student who has reached the age of 18 years, the student, may appeal a decision of this school to refuse admission. An appeal may be made under Section 29 (1)(c)(i) of the Education Act 1998 where the refusal to admit was due to the school being oversubscribed. An appeal may be made under Section 29 (1)(c)(ii) of the Education Act 1998 where the refusal to admit was due a reason other than the school being oversubscribed.
TUSLA’s Education Support Service (TESS) which is the statutory agency that can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. TESS can be contacted at 01-7718500. For ease of reference, I have provided you with a link to the relevant phone numbers for the Education Welfare Officers who are part of TESS assigned to various areas around the country. See: https://www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices
Special Educational Needs
Ceisteanna (411)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:411. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Education further to Parliamentary Question No. 292 of 15 October 2024, when a person (details supplied) will receive an assessment for dyslexia; the reason the assigned psychologist has not meet with the parent to outline how the pupil can be supported, as indicated in the previous PQ response; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2292/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I would like to thank Deputy Carthy for his question regarding my Department’s National Educational Psychological Service.
The National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) works with schools using a problem-solving model to help schools identify need and interventions to support those needs. Under this model, NEPS encourages schools to use a continuum-based assessment and intervention process whereby each school takes responsibility for initial assessment, educational planning and remedial intervention for pupils with learning, emotional or behavioural difficulties. Teachers may consult their NEPS psychologist should they wish to for advice. If the school has concerns that a pupil is not making reasonable progress following evidence informed support and intervention, the school may prioritise the involvement of the NEPS psychologist to support the identification of need process.
The Continuum of Support is the framework developed by NEPS for schools to identify, plan and provide support for those students who experience difficulties with their learning. Students do not require a psychological assessment, or a diagnosis in order to access additional support at school.
NEPS understands dyslexia in the context the severity and persistence of an individual’s needs over time and their response to intervention. This approach aligns with the new Special Educational model in schools which focuses on the identification of need and the matching of specific interventions to that need. Specific interventions are therefore tailored, by the school, to the individual’s observed needs by the school, rather than being generic to a specific difficulty or disability.
NEPS have recently developed new guidance documents for primary and post-primary schools on Supporting Students with Literacy Difficulties/Dyslexia Using the Continuum of Support. These are designed to equip schools with knowledge of approaches and strategies required to support students who experience difficulties with literacy, using a response to intervention approach, in all school contexts: English medium schools; Gaeltacht schools; and Irish medium schools.
These resources contain information on evidence informed practice and are intended as a guide to support schools in meeting the needs of students with literacy difficulties, including dyslexia, and will be accessible to all schools through the gov.ie website.
Training is currently being provided by NEPS nationally for all schools, at primary and post-primary levels, facilitated by local Educational Centres, on evidence informed approaches and strategies to support students with literacy difficulties including dyslexia, using the Continuum of Support approach.
I have made enquiries in relation to the pupil referred to and I understand that the pupil has been prioritised for referral to NEPS and the process will commence this term.
Education Policy
Ceisteanna (412)
Pádraig Rice
Ceist:412. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Education her position on single-sex primary and post-primary schools; if she is taking steps to encourage single-sex schools to become co-educational schools or if such changes in status are solely school-led; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2346/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to advise the Deputy that the decision making authority for a change of status to coeducation is the patron/trustees of the schools, subject to the approval of my Department. Local consultation regarding potential change of status to coeducation is encouraged and supported by the Department but it is the responsibility of the patrons to undertake any consultation that they deem appropriate and to make the final decision as to whether to change status.
My Department in considering such applications must assess the implications, if any, of changing the status of a school(s) in the context of how this change may impact the viability of other schools in the area and any future implications for school place availability. My Department must also consider any associated capital implications that may be warranted as a result of such a change.
School Transport
Ceisteanna (413)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:413. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education to provide an update on the planned phasing out of the ‘nearest school’ rule for the school transport scheme; a timeline for its abolishment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2353/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education. In the current school year over 172,500 children, are transported daily in approximately 7,900 vehicles across 10,300 routes to primary and post-primary schools throughout the country. These daily trips cover over 100 million kilometres. This figure includes over 143,800 pupils travelling on primary and post primary services, 21,700 pupils with special educational needs, and 6,800 pupils who have arrived to Ireland from Ukraine.
The scheme is made up of three separate schemes, the school transport scheme for primary, post primary and for children with special educational needs. Transport is also provided for children who have arrived in Ireland from Ukraine and those residing in IPAS/EROC centres.
The total expenditure on the scheme in 2024 was €512m.
The purpose of my Department's School Transport Scheme is, having regard to available resources, to support the transport to and from school of children who reside remote from their nearest school.
Under the current terms of the School Transport Schemes, children are eligible for transport at primary level where they reside not less than 3.2 kms from and are attending their nearest national school. At post primary level, they are eligible where they reside not less than 4.8 kms from and are attending their nearest post primary school/education centre. Distance is determined by the Department/Bus Éireann and rules have regard to ethos and language.
The School Transport 2030 report, which was published in early 2024 marks the largest review of the School Transport Scheme since it was established in 1967. The Government is committed to working to achieve the report’s recommendation of expanding access to the scheme so that an additional 100,000 pupils can be carried by 2030. The recommended changes to the future operation of the schemes include expansion of the current eligibility criteria, addressing current operational challenges and moving towards better integration with public transport to ensure the best value for money to the Exchequer. A phased implementation of the review’s recommendations began at the start of the 2024/2025 school year.
As indicated at the time of the launch of the review, a number of pilots were being considered by my Department in conjunction with the Department of Transport and Bus Éireann. As also indicated at the time of the launch of the review, it was intended that following closure of the application process for the 2025/2026 school year consideration would be given to further potential pilots.
A total of 14 pilot projects are underway this school year. These pilots are currently being evaluated and they will provide valuable insights into the impact of increased demand on the scheme, the potential for integrating public transport with school transport services, and opportunities to promote more sustainable modes of transport. The findings from the evaluation will guide the planning and implementation needed for a national rollout of a revised School Transport Scheme.
Further information on plans for the 2025/2026 school year will be available shortly.
Child Protection
Ceisteanna (414)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:414. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Education whether her attention has been drawn to the calls from organisations (details supplied) for an urgent review of the reporting mechanism for the use of restraint in schools; whether she would consider instigating an independent child protection review of the guidelines and the reporting mechanism on the use of seclusion and restraint in schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2354/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
On December 12, 2024, my department published the "Understanding Behaviours of Concern and Responding to Crisis Situations in Schools" guidelines. These guidelines were developed in response to an identified need for clearer guidance for schools. They aim to enhance schools' understanding of behaviours of concern and support them in effectively managing crisis situations.
The guidelines place a strong focus on prevention and early intervention strategies for the management of crisis situations in which physical intervention may be employed only as the last part of a comprehensive, positive and planned behavioural approach by the school. They are underpinned by the principles that such intervention is never used for the purposes of discipline; that it should be applied proportionately and should last only as long as is necessary to de-escalate the situation. The guidelines underline the importance of continued supervision of children during a crisis period including matters related to behaviour and the need for such incidents to be recorded.
Furthermore, the guidelines explicitly state seclusion should not be used under any circumstances in any recognised school setting.
The publication of Circular 0081/2024 serves to inform schools about the "Understanding Behaviours of Concern and Responding to Crisis Situations Guidelines for Schools," with a particular focus on the recording and reporting of physical restraint. The Guidelines include templates and detailed guidance to support schools in this process. Schools will be required to report instances of restraint being used to the NCSE from September 2025.
The Department will monitor incidents with physical restraint and will work with the NCSE to ensure there is engagement between the NCSE and individual schools in circumstances where a physical restraint has been used involving students with special educational needs. In addition, the Inspectorate will have a role in monitoring the use of physical restraint in schools.
The availability of information relating to the use of restraint in school settings will also inform the NCSE’s overarching approach to its professional learning and training support programmes for schools.
The Guidelines do not replace any existing obligations or processes, statutory or otherwise, that already exist in this area. If a parent wishes to make a complaint, they should follow the complaints procedure as set out by the school. If there are child protection allegations Tusla and An Garda Siochana continue to be the relevant authorities.
The Department is aware of the two organisations noted and their campaign for a child-protection led review of the reporting mechanism for the use of restraint in Irish schools. It is important to note that the Guidelines were published following an extensive consultation process with education stakeholders and advocacy groups. In addition, the Guidelines and the attendant training programme were subject to trials in special schools. In that regard, the Department has taken account of feedback provided by the two organisations in the development of the guidelines.
The Department is committed to monitoring and reviewing the implementation of the Guidelines in schools once published and to updating them as necessary on foot of the outcomes of the monitoring and review. The Department will continue to engage with the relevant stakeholders as part of the review process.