Tuesday, 25 Mar 2025

Energy Infrastructure

Ceisteanna (191)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

191. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the plans for the new Gas Networks Ireland, GNI, LNG gas jetty will be available; the way in which the plans will be subject to public scrutiny and review; if it is intended that GNI will purchase or lease a floating storage and regassification unit, FRSU, to be moored at the jetty in the long term; the way in which his Department will monitor the refilling of the FRSU to cater for boil-off; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13443/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

As outlined in the Programme for Government, this Government is committed to taking decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and to achieve a 51% reduction in emissions from 2018 to 2030, and to achieving net-zero emissions no later than 2050.

In the Programme for Government we also set out our commitment to achieving 80% of Ireland’s electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030 and to take all necessary action to ensure and protect Ireland’s energy security.

It is through delivering on this commitment that we will deliver a secure and sustainable energy future.

The commitment to a secure energy future builds upon the 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' report, approved by Government in November 2023. The report includes 28 actions and is defined by three policy objectives: sustainability, affordability, and security.

Action 17 of the Plan is the development of a state-led strategic gas reserve. On 4 March this year, Government approved the development of a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve, in the form of a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit, for use in the event of an interruption to gas supplies.

A State-led strategic gas emergency reserve, operating on a non-commercial basis for use only in the event of an emergency, will provide resilience to the gas system and mitigate against the major consequences for our society and our economy that would arise from a significant gas supply disruption in Ireland.

My Department is developing the appropriate policy and legislative measures to ensure that a strategic reserve provides the resilience to our energy system in a manner that:

• does not inadvertently increase gas demand by increasing the supply available on the market; and

• is compatible with the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act.

This work is to determine commercial arrangements such as the options to lease or procure a floating storage and regassification unit and the management of boil-off gas are ongoing and this will work will inform the final investment decision.

Energy Production

Ceisteanna (192)

Ryan O'Meara

Ceist:

192. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will report on the Biomethane Implementation Groups progress to date regarding the development of the anaerobic digestion industry in Ireland; if he will report on its work to develop planning guidelines to support local authorities when assessing anaerobic digestor plant planning applications; what assessment factors they aim to include in these guidelines; the agencies and Departments involved; the timeline for the implementation of these guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13360/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

In line with the agreed Sectoral Emissions Ceilings, Government has committed to supporting the production of up to 5.7TWh of indigenously produced biomethane by 2030. A first step to realising this ambition was the publication of the National Biomethane Strategy which sets out twenty-five key strategic actions and outlines the necessary supports needed to drive growth across the biomethane sector. Chaired by my Department, the Biomethane Implementation Group will oversee implementation of the strategy and monitor overall target delivery.

Anaerobic Digestors (AD), used to produce biomethane, can bring significant benefits to the communities and the local environment in which they are located but they are also significant infrastructure with impacts on the environment, biospheres, and local communities. AD and other integrated assets are, therefore, correctly required to undergo a planning process to ensure proper consideration of a range of factors, including location, visual impact, land-zoning plans, and ecology.

Delivery of the 5.7TWh target will require significant resourcing in key Government Agencies, particularly in specialist areas such as planning and environmental assessment. The availability of professional advisors, such as planners and environmental specialists, will also be a critical requirement.

Priority deliverables under the Strategy include Actions 5f and 5g which will see the development of planning guidelines to support Local Authorities when assessing AD-related planning applications, and a review of the resourcing requirements of key Government Agencies to support development of the industry. Delivery of these actions will be overseen by the Biomethane Implementation Group and in collaboration with key Departments and Agencies.

Energy Prices

Ceisteanna (193)

Cian O'Callaghan

Ceist:

193. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the proceeds collected arising from the cap on market revenues to date; the use to which these monies will be put; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13378/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Energy (Windfall Gains in the Energy Sector) (Cap on Market Revenues) Act 2023 was enacted in November 2023 and was commenced on 4 December 2023. This Act implemented a cap on market revenues of specific electricity producers, traders and intermediaries as required in Council Regulation (EU) 2022/1854 of 6 October 2022 on an emergency intervention to address high energy prices.

The Act provides for the collection agent to establish, administer, and maintain a fund to be known as the Market Cap Fund, into which the proceeds from the cap on market revenues will be retained. Under the Act, the proceeds from the cap on market revenues have been retained by EirGrid on behalf of the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) and are to be used to support final electricity consumers in measures in line with Article 10 of the Regulation.

The returns received by the CRU to date are currently subject to audit. Pending final adjustments, it is estimated that the size of the fund will be approximately €189 million.

The monies collected have not yet been spent. My Department is preparing a recommendation for the disbursement of the funds to suitable schemes benefitting final electricity customers in keeping with the requirements of Council Regulation (EU) 2022/1854 and in co-operation with the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform.

Legislative Programme

Ceisteanna (194)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

194. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications on the general scheme and regulatory impact assessment of the air pollution Act (amendment) Bill 2024 will undergo pre-legislative scrutiny; when that will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13428/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

On 22 April 2024 the Government approved the drafting of a Bill to amend the Air Pollution Act, 1987.

The General Scheme and regulatory impact assessment were published on 8 August 2024 and are available to download at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/abad8-general-scheme-and-regulatory-impact-assessment-of-air-pollution-act-amendment-bill-2024/

My Department requested pre-legislative scrutiny of the Bill in July 2024. On 24 September 2024 the Committee on Environment and Climate Action agreed that it would not undertake pre-legislative scrutiny on this occasion, particularly given the importance of the Bill.Officials from my Department have been working with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel and the Attorney General's Office on the drafting of the Bill and it is expected that it will be published in the coming weeks.

Renewable Energy Generation

Ceisteanna (195)

John Clendennen

Ceist:

195. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications for a progress report on the consultation on community benefit funds under the renewable energy support scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13476/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) mandates the establishment of Community Benefit Funds (CBFs) for projects participating in the scheme to ensure that local communities hosting renewable energy projects directly benefit from the country's transition to sustainable energy. Each RESS Project is required to contribute a minimum payment of €2 per Megawatt-hour (MWh) of electricity generated annually to its respective CBF. The distribution of the CBF is allocated in near neighbour payments, Sustainable Development initiatives, and administration costs. In December 2024, a public consultation was held to refine the CBF framework. This consultation seeks feedback on various aspects, including enhancing transparency measures and adjusting near neighbour payment arrangements.

The consultation is critical to ensuring that the CBFs remain effective and responsive to community needs, as well boosting community support for and engagement with renewable energy projects. The consultation will inform the RESS 5 Terms and Conditions and the publication of the CBFs under RESS Rulebook, providing further guidance and rules. The consultation closed on the 7 March and my Department is reviewing the submissions received from stakeholders. My Department will publish a Consultation Response document along with the new CBF Rulebook taking account of the feedback received in the consultation submissions in Q2 this year to coincide with the publication of the RESS 5 Terms and Conditions. Further information on the CBFs under RESS public consultation is available on the following link: www.gov.ie/en/consultation/6d1c8-consultation-on-community-benefit-funds-cbf-under-the-renewable-electricity-support-scheme/

Public Procurement Contracts

Ceisteanna (196)

Albert Dolan

Ceist:

196. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to detail the total expenditure on public procurement by his Department and its agencies, including spending on goods, services and works acquired through public procurement processes, in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [13559/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

All procurement within my Department, is conducted in accordance with applicable EU and national regulations and guidelines and is subject to regular review and oversight to ensure that budgetary control is maintained over the life cycle of individual projects.

Procurement takes place in the context of Directive 2014/24/EU supported by the Procurement Guidelines published by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP). These set out a range of procedures governing the procurement process through tendering to the award of contracts. It also sets out the procedures governing the modification of contracts during their term.

The Department complies with circular 05/2023 and applies the use of a public tender for any procurement with a value over €50,000 excluding VAT. This threshold was increased from €25,000 during 2023 to facilitate SME participation.

The Department also participates fully in on-going initiatives of the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) focusing on ensuring value for money particularly through the use of shared framework agreements for the provision of different categories of supplies and services.

I am advised that the total cost of contracts entered into following a public tendering process and completed by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, in each of the past five years, is detailed in the table below. It should be noted that the 2020 and 2021 figures predated the introduction of the Department's current procurement recording process and have been compiled based on available data.

Year	Final Cost of Public Tenders (ex. VAT)
2024	€27,480,406
2023	€8,810,759
2022	€3,250,806
2021	€1,801,859
2020	€330,590
Total	€41,348,30

In relation to the State Agencies under the aegis of my Department, they are responsible for their own procurement processes. I have however asked the Agencies concerned to respond directly to the Deputy.

Departmental Bodies

Ceisteanna (197)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

197. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to provide a list of regulatory, appeal or other bodies, either funded by or under the remit of his Department, which are quasi-judicial in nature. [13573/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

There are a number of bodies under my Department's aegis with powers to make determinations, decisions or authorisations under regulatory functions or appeal functions: the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA), the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Mining Board. With reference to whether any of the bodies are quasi-judicial in nature, their roles and functions are briefly described below.

MARA is an independent body with regulatory functions provided for under the Maritime Area Planning Act 2021, which includes the assessment and granting of Maritime Area Consent (MAC) applications for the maritime area and marine licensing for specified activities, as well as compliance and enforcement functions. Determinations in relation to MARA authorisations can be subject to Judicial Review.

ComReg is an independent body responsible for the regulation of service providers in the electronic communications sector and the postal sector in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and associated Regulations. It is responsible for the authorisation, licensing and registration of a range of different telecoms and postal services, and has an adjudication regime under which sanctions imposed require confirmation by the High Court.

The CRU is Ireland’s independent energy and water and natural gas regulator set up under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 (as amended). The CRU grants certain authorisations and licenses, then monitors performance and can modify or revoke those licences if needed. It has powers of investigation and to impose administrative sanctions. Determinations in relation to CRU authorisations can be subject to Judicial Review.

The EPA enforces environmental legislation and carries out other functions in line with the EPA Act 1992, which includes Integrated Pollution Control (IPC) and Industrial Emissions (IE) licensing. Those licences are awarded, refused, or awarded with conditions based on the relevant legislation and the individual facts of each application. The decisions of the EPA can be appealed under the EPA Act 1992 and it is the Courts that decide the validity of the decision under Judicial Review.

The Mining Board is a Statutory Body established pursuant to Section 33(1) of the Minerals Development Act 1940. It is a board appellate that hears appeals in relation to mineral rights, and has powers similar to those vested in the High Court to enforce the attendance of witnesses and examine them on oath. The Mining Board's decisions can be subject to Judicial Review.

Energy Policy

Ceisteanna (198)

Robert O'Donoghue

Ceist:

198. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications given that our country has banned fracking due to its well-documented impacts on public health and the environment, how he justifies the importation of fracked gas from the United States, where communities have suffered severe health and environmental consequences from this practice; if he will ensure that our energy policies do not contribute to the harms we have deemed unacceptable within our own borders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13614/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

As outlined in the Programme for Government, this Government is committed to taking decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and to achieve a 51% reduction in emissions from 2018 to 2030, and to achieving net-zero emissions no later than 2050.

In the Programme for Government we also set out our commitment to achieving 80% of Ireland’s electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030 and to take all necessary action to ensure and protect Ireland’s energy security.

It is through delivering on this commitment that we will deliver a secure and sustainable energy future.

The commitment to a secure energy future builds upon the 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' report, approved by Government in November 2023. The report includes 28 actions and is defined by three policy objectives: sustainability, affordability, and security.

Action 17 of the Plan is the development of a state-led strategic gas reserve. On March 4th this year, Government approved the development of a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve, in the form of a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit, for use in the event of an interruption to gas supplies.

A state-led strategic gas emergency reserve, operating on a non-commercial basis for use only in the event of an emergency, would provide resilience to the gas system and mitigate against the major consequences for our society and our economy that would arise from a significant gas supply disruption in Ireland.

My Department is developing the appropriate policy and legislative measures to ensure that a strategic reserve provides the resilience to our energy system in a manner that:

• does not inadvertently increase gas demand by increasing the supply available on the market; and

• is compatible with the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act.

The State-Led Strategic gas emergency reserve will be owned and operated by Gas Networks Ireland for use in the event of a disruption to gas supplies. My Department is working on supporting policies and legislation to support the development of the strategic gas emergency reserve. No commercial arrangements currently exist for the supply of the reserve. All legal, commercial and regulatory matters are now progressing following the Government Decision.

The 2021 'Policy Statement on the Importation of Fracked Gas' notes that the statement will remain in place pending the completion of the review of Ireland’s energy security. The approval of this Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve marks that completion. The Policy Statement on the Importation of Fracked Gas no longer remains in place.

Any application for fossil fuel infrastructure in Ireland will be subject to the planning, consenting and regulatory approvals by relevant bodies and the provision of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2021 will apply.

Waste Management

Ceisteanna (199)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

199. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps that are being taken to address the growing issue of textile waste in Ireland; and the further steps that are being taken to reduce the level of over consumption and promote recycling and upcycling of clothing. [13689/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

My Department is engaged on a number of initiatives to reduce and tackle textile waste. The separate collection of textiles is essential to maximise opportunities for reuse and supporting our transition to a circular economy. Currently, our separate collection system for textiles consists of a national network of local authority and charity bring banks, charity retail shops as well as some private bring banks. There are also a number of retailers who have take-back schemes in operation.

The current system requires substantial enhancement to ensure the treatment of textiles aligns with the waste hierarchy and circular economy principles. My Department is developing our first National Policy Statement and Roadmap on Circular Textiles with input from the EPA, local government and the Textiles Advisory Group. This document will set out steps required to enhance our separate collection system and I look forward to launching the draft document for public consultation in the coming weeks.

At EU level, the European Commission's legislative proposal to revise the Waste Framework Directive includes the introduction of a mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for textiles. The key objective of the proposed EPR scheme is to apply the 'polluter pays principle' while creating a more robust economy for textile collection, sorting, reuse and recycling.

This proposal has progressed to the final stage of negotiation between the European Parliament and the Council of the EU and is expected to be adopted in the first half of 2025. An EPR scheme for textiles is expected to become mandatory by 2027. My Department has already started the foundational work with the sector for an Irish EPR scheme.

Energy Policy

Ceisteanna (200)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

200. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of the Government's policy statement on the importation of fracked gas; if the Government still maintains this policy; if not, the reason this policy has changed; if any climate impact assessment has been undertaken on changing this policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13787/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

As outlined in the Programme for Government, this Government is committed to taking decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and to achieve a 51% reduction in emissions from 2018 to 2030, and to achieving net-zero emissions no later than 2050.

The Programme for Government set out the commitment to achieving 80% of Ireland’s electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030 and to take all necessary action to ensure and protect Ireland’s energy security.

It is through delivering on this commitment that we will deliver a secure and sustainable energy future.

The commitment to a secure energy future builds upon the 'Energy Security in Ireland to 2030' report, approved by Government in November 2023. The report includes 28 actions and is defined by three policy objectives: sustainability, affordability, and security.

Action 17 of the Plan is the development of a state-led strategic gas reserve. On 4 March this year, Government approved the development of a State-led strategic gas emergency reserve, in the form of a Floating Storage and Regasification Unit, for use in the event of an interruption to gas supplies.

The 2021 'Policy Statement on the Importation of Fracked Gas' notes that the statement will remain in place pending the completion of the review of Ireland’s energy security. The approval of this Strategic Gas Emergency Reserve marks that completion. The Policy Statement on the Importation of Fracked Gas no longer remains in place.

Any application for fossil fuel infrastructure in Ireland will be subject to the planning, consenting and regulatory approvals by relevant bodies and the provision of the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2021 will apply.

Official Engagements

Ceisteanna (201)

Paul Donnelly

Ceist:

201. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he met with the mayor of Miami during the recent Saint Patrick's Day events. [13846/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

I can confirm that I did not meet with the Mayor of Miami during my recent visit as part of the 2025 Saint Patrick's Day events.

Noise Pollution

Ceisteanna (202)

Richard O'Donoghue

Ceist:

202. Deputy Richard O'Donoghue asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to Parliamentary Question No. 65 of 26 February 2025, if he will provide information in relation to reports on wind turbine noise (details supplied). [13953/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

The European Communities (Environmental Noise) Regulations 2018 (S. I. No 549 of 2018) transpose EU Directive 2002/49/EC relating to the assessment and management of environmental noise. The Directive aims to provide a common framework to avoid, prevent or reduce, on a prioritised basis, the harmful effects of exposure to environmental noise. The Environmental Noise Directive (END) is specific in its definition, considering environmental noise as unwanted or harmful outdoor sound created by human activity, such as noise emitted by different means of transport — road traffic, rail traffic, air traffic — and industrial activity. Therefore, noise in workplaces, noise from domestic activities, noise from neighbours or recreational venues, noise from wind turbines, or noise caused by military activities is not considered under the END.

The assessment of noise impacts of proposed wind energy development is currently provided for in statutory planning guidelines, the current applicable guidelines being the Wind Energy Development Guidelines, 2006. All planning guidelines are prepared under the remit of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended). I am advised that the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently undertaking a focused review of the 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines. The review is addressing a number of key aspects of the Guidelines including noise, setback distance, shadow flicker, community obligation, community dividend and grid connections. My Department will continue to assist, as required, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, which has responsibility for reviewing the Wind Energy Development Guidelines.

I am advised that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not commissioned any wind turbine modelling reports. Further, I understand that the only report SEAI has published specifically on the subject of Wind Turbine Noise is “EXAMINATION OF THE SIGNIFICANCE OF NOISE IN RELATION TO ONSHORE WIND FARMS” provided by Marshall Day Acoustics on 29 November 2013 www.seai.ie/sites/default/files/publications/Examination-of-the-Significance-of-Noise-in-Relation-to-Onshore-Wind-Farms.pdf

Energy Conservation

Ceisteanna (203)

Peter 'Chap' Cleere

Ceist:

203. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if there are plans to introduce stand-alone grants, outside of the One Stop Shop, for retrofitting windows and doors in homes. [14040/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

My Department funds a number of grant schemes, administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), to support homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties.

Grant support for window and door replacement is available under the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme (One Stop Shop service) as well as under the Community Energy Grant Scheme as part of a whole home upgrade solution. When a homeowner is completing a whole home energy upgrade under these schemes, the overall fabric of the property is assessed through the home energy survey and assessment. The assessment may recommend particular measures, including windows and doors, to ensure that home achieves a B2 rating or is suitable for installation of a heat pump.

The Warmer Homes Scheme provides fully-funded upgrades for households at risk of energy poverty. In certain circumstances window upgrades may be recommended following a survey and provided where suitable. Eligibility for the Warmer Homes Scheme requires applicants to be in receipt of certain Department of Social Protection payments.

SEAI schemes do not fund windows and doors upgrades as a single measure. The vast majority of homes in Ireland that have inefficient windows also have walls and/or roofs with low levels of insulation. Upgrading the wall and/or roof insulation would typically be of a greater benefit to a homeowner in terms of energy saving than upgrading windows and so the grants for individual measures are directed towards higher priority measures that are of greater benefit.

My officials engage with their counterparts in the SEAI on an ongoing basis in relation to the operation of the schemes and, as part of this engagement, will progress the Programme for Government commitment to improve the provision of grants and financing models for homeowners who wish to retrofit, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing costs.

Social Media

Ceisteanna (204)

Gary Gannon

Ceist:

204. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the percentage of social media video accessible, such as providing the information or activities posted on each of his Department’s social media accounts, or the social media accounts of public bodies and agencies that operate under its remit, including closed captioning and subtitling and Irish Sign Language translations, between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024, inclusive. [14050/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

My Department ensures, to the greatest extent possible, that our published video content is accessible and includes closed captioning or subtitling.

In 2024, 100% of videos posted on our social media channels were captioned.

No videos with Irish sign language translations were posted.

The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency. The Department will request the relevant bodies to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested in respect of their organisations

Illegal Dumping

Ceisteanna (205)

Mark Ward

Ceist:

205. Deputy Mark Ward asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the cost to each of the four Dublin local authorities for the collection and management of illegal dumping each year from 2022 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14121/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Under the Waste Management Act, the primary responsibility for management and enforcement responses to illegal dumping lies with the local authorities. It is a matter for each local authority to determine the most appropriate awareness, enforcement, clean-up and disposal actions in relation to illegal dumping, taking account of local circumstances and priorities. As such my Department does not hold information on the amounts individual local authorities spend on managing illegally dumped waste on an annual basis. Questions in relation to expenditure relating to illegal dumping in each county should be directed to the relevant local authority. However, my Department provides significant support to the local authority sector in their efforts to deal with incidences of illegal dumping. Almost €20.5m has been provided to the sector under the Anti-Dumping Initiative (ADI) since it was first introduced in 2017 in order to encourage a collaborative approach between local authorities, community groups and other State Agencies to tackling the problem. Innovative projects, which recognise waste as a resource that can be re-purposed for use in a Circular Economy are particularly encouraged under the initiative. €2.8m was provided in support of the ADI in 2024, while a further €3m has been allocated in support of the Initiative in 2025. Full details of the amounts provided to individual local authorities by my Department under the ADI for each of the years 2017 - 2023 (2024 data will be added shortly), including details of the specific projects supported by county are available at the following link - www.gov.ie/en/publication/e27ac-anti-dumping-initiative/

My Department also continues to invest heavily in the local authority waste enforcement network, through the Waste Enforcement Measures Grant Scheme, with the intention of maintaining a visible presence of waste enforcement personnel on the ground across the State. €7.58m was provided to local authorities under the scheme in 2024, with a further €7.7m allocated for 2025.

Air and Water Pollution

Ceisteanna (206)

Pádraig Rice

Ceist:

206. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he is aware of the issues regarding air pollution in Cork and the health risks associated (details supplied); the steps his Department is taking in order to meet the World Health Organisation’s target for air pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14162/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Ireland is currently not in exceedance of any of our legal requirements for air quality levels. The EPA air quality monitoring network is used to determine our compliance with legal limits and all relevant data is available from www.airquality.ie.

Amendments to the EU Ambient Air Quality Directive have set more stringent legally binding limits for Ireland to achieve by 2030 and plans are in development to support the achievement of these levels.

Furthermore, the Clean Air Strategy published in 2023 sets out our ambition in relation to reaching the WHO guidelines by 2040 and provides a roadmap on how this will be achieved.

My Department continues to promote the importance of air quality on health. It also continues to work with key stakeholders to ensure continuous reductions in air pollution, which in Ireland is predominantly caused by solid fuel burning and transport. Practical measures to date include the 2022 Solid Fuel Regulations, communications campaigns and supporting local authority enforcement.

Last year my Department engaged with three local authorities with higher levels of solid fuel related air pollution as part of a pilot project to determine how best to tackle this issue. Officials in my Department are currently working on the next phase of this project, which will also involve tackling emissions from transport in particular areas around the country, including Cork City.

Departmental Meetings

Ceisteanna (207)

Aidan Farrelly

Ceist:

207. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has met with officials from communications companies (details supplied) since taking up his post and, if so, to provide details of any discussions held with them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14231/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications

Following the damage caused to the Telecoms networks by Storm Éowyn, my colleague Minister O'Donovan met with senior executives of both mobile and fixed telecoms providers on 14 February, including Eir, Three and Vodafone to reflect on the lessons to be learned, and measures to be considered to build further resilience into telecommunications networks to avoid, where feasible and practicable, a reoccurrence of the same level of disruption to services.

I am advised that this was a constructive engagement and it was agreed by all that it will require a strong collaboration between public and private entities to ensure that our communication networks are strengthened to withstand the kinds of weather impacts recently experienced.

To that end, the telecoms providers have been asked to begin to identify specific areas in which both the State and private industry can work together in the short-term to improve both the resilience and recovery plans for these kinds of damaging events.

Officials in my Department are developing a longer term climate resilience plan for communication networks which will look at how all sectors of the electronic communication networks market can be better prepared for the effects of climate change.

My colleague Minister O'Donovan has also met with representatives from Virgin Media on 6 March. Topics of discussion at this meeting included an introduction to Virgin Media Ireland, an update on Virgin’s fibre roll out across Ireland and the future of Public Service Broadcasting funding. I am advised that no meetings have taken place between Minister O'Donovan and representatives from Sky since taking up his post.

Public Procurement Contracts

Ceisteanna (208)

Albert Dolan

Ceist:

208. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to detail the total expenditure on public procurement by his Department and its agencies, including spending on goods, services and works acquired through public procurement processes, in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [13551/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

The Defence Vote Group is comprised of Vote 35 (Army Pensions) and Vote 36 (Defence). The Army Pensions Vote, which is mainly demand-led and non-discretionary, provides pension benefits to 13,600 Army Pensioners and their dependants. The Defence Vote allocation provides, inter alia, for the pay and allowances of 8,960 public service employees (including 8,000 members of the Permanent Defence Force), ongoing Defence Forces standing and operational costs and essential capital investment on Defence Forces equipment and infrastructure requirements.

The Department ensures that there is an appropriate focus on good procurement practice in the award of all contracts and that procedures are in place to ensure compliance with all relevant public procurement guidelines. Procurement procedures are kept under constant review to ensure that they are in line with best practice, guidance and the legal framework. In addition, all procurement practices are subject to regular scrutiny and audit by both the Department's Internal Audit Section and the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

Excluding expenditure on pay and allowances, pensions, litigation, grants, etc, the total remaining expenditure in the Defence Vote Group represents the approximate expenditure on goods, services and works acquired through public procurement processes. The table below sets out that figure over the period in question.

Year	Public Procurement Expenditure € million
2020	€265
2021	€250
2022	€290
2023	€360
2024*	€350

* based on provisional outturn.

Departmental Bodies

Ceisteanna (209)

Roderic O'Gorman

Ceist:

209. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence to provide a list of regulatory, appeal or other bodies, either funded by or under the remit of his Department, which are quasi-judicial in nature. [13570/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

I can confirm that there are no regulatory, appeal or other bodies funded by or under the remit of my Department that are quasi-judicial in nature. There are three bodies under the aegis of my Department; the Army Pensions Board, the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces and the External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces (EOB), which was placed on a Statutory basis on 1 December 2024.

The Army Pensions Board is an independent statutory body, established under the Army Pensions Act 1927. The Army Pensions Board adjudicates and reports on applications under the Army Pensions Acts for disability pensions by ex members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF). The Act specifies that the Board shall consist of a chairman and two ordinary members. The two ordinary members must be qualified medical practitioners, one of whom must be an officer of the Army Medical Corps. The Army Medical Corps ordinary member is appointed by the Minister for Defence on the recommendation of the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces.

The Office of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces (ODF) was established under the Ombudsman (Defence Forces) Act 2004 and became operational in December 2005. The primary role of the Ombudsman for the Defence Forces is to provide an independent appeals process for serving and former members of the Defence Forces who have processed a complaint through the internal Redress of Wrongs process but remain dissatisfied with the outcome, or the manner in which their complaint was handled. The Ombudsman for the Defence Forces has full independence and autonomy in the discharge of his statutory functions. On completion of an investigation, the Ombudsman issues his report which will include his conclusions and, if appropriate, recommendations to the Minister for Defence.

Following publication of the report of the Independent Review Group (IRG) an External Oversight Body of the Defence Forces (EOB), was established, initially on a non-statutory basis. The Body’s Terms of Reference were published in July 2023. The role of the Body is to oversee the implementation of the relevant recommendations of the Report of the Independent Review Group (IRG), to increase transparency and accountability in the Defence Forces, and to bring about necessary changes to the workplace culture and behaviour in the Defence Forces.

The Defence (Amendment) Act 2024, provided for the establishment of a statutory Body to be known as Comhlacht Formhaoirsithe Seachtrach Óglaigh na hÉireann (the External Oversight Body). In accordance with the provisions of the Act, the Minister for Defence signed the commencement and establishment day orders bringing the statutory Body into operation on 1st December 2024. The Defence (Amendment) Act 2024, sets out the functions of the Body.

Air Corps

Ceisteanna (210)

Paul Donnelly

Ceist:

210. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence if funding is available this year to replace the air traffic control tower at Casement Aerodrome; and, if so, when this work will commence. [13869/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Defence

The Defence Forces Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) sets out a programme of project delivery for the years 2023 to 2027. The Plan is iterative in nature thus ensuring that it remains relevant and that investment is targeted where most needed. The updated Plan estimated infrastructure requirements to be in the region of some €359m for the coming years. At the end of 2024 there were over €230m worth of projects underway at different stages of development. This level of expenditure will continue to increase as the Plan is implemented. This year the capital allocation stands at €50m for capital investment with a further €12.5m allocation for ongoing maintenance and running costs.

In order to further progress development of Defence Forces infrastructure more quickly and to increase economies of scale, a series of masterplans for each installation will be developed. This approach will identify from the outset the infrastructure requirements in line with capability development for each installation with an associated prioritisation of projects and a phased timeline for delivery, as well as identifying how best to futureproof each installation. These plans will dovetail with developments identified under the current IDP, and will also layout requirements for the years from 2027 onwards.

The first masterplan for the airside in Casement Airbase, Baldonnel has recently been completed in February 2025 and is currently being reviewed by officials in my Department. It has determined how the airbase should be developed in response to the requirements of a growing Air Corps, and sets out the phased delivery of infrastructure projects while ensuring the safeguarding of any future development.

In respect of the Air Traffic Control Tower, the masterplan recognises the development of a new Control Tower as being of strategic importance to the Defence Forces and is included in the phased delivery of projects. Once the masterplan has been reviewed and published, timelines for the construction of the new Tower and its incorporation into the aforementioned IDP can be determined.