Written Answers Nos. 1382-1406
1382. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether his Department has a policy or goal of better insourcing of IT requirements and needs of the Department for better cybersecurity, autonomy, and crisis management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43673/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department recognises the strategic importance of maintaining robust cybersecurity defences, service resilience and operational continuity.
My Department actively reviews and refines our cybersecurity approach based on up to date intelligence and actively measures it against the Public Sector Cyber Security Baseline Standards. The Baseline Standards were developed by the National Cyber Security Centre, in conjunction with the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer and follow a holistic and comprehensive approach that combine the best of various standards. They focus on key cybersecurity areas such as access control, security monitoring, incident response and resilience.
1383. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the way he will ensure that artists, musicians and arts workers are not negatively impacted by any findings of the review of the Arts Council; and that funding levels are not decreased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43959/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs outlined in the Programme for Government, the Government believes that culture and the arts are essential to a well-rounded society, providing opportunities for education, expression and community engagement. Ireland is world renowned for our rich, diverse and vibrant arts sector.
The Arts Council is the national agency for funding, developing and promoting the arts in Ireland and it works within the framework of the Arts Act 2003. The Arts Council's commitment to the arts is provided for in its 10-year investment Strategy -Making Great Art Work. As a reflection of the Government's commitment to support Irish arts, funding for the Arts Council has increased by 75% since 2020 to €140 million in 2025. With this allocation, the Arts Council has been in a position to very significantly increase the support and funding it provides to the sector.
The Review of Governance and Organisational Culture in the Arts Council is essential to address failings within the Arts Council and to put it on a sound footing for the future so that it can continue to perform its very valuable role in supporting and developing Irish arts and culture.
I have consistently stated that individual artists should not bear responsibility for any failures by the Arts Council or the Department. The governance failures must be addressed in order to safeguard public funding and to prevent a recurrence of issues that have arisen.
The review is not intended to disrupt the operations of the Arts Council and the Arts Council's day-to-day work of supporting Irish artists is continuing during the review process.
Future funding requirements will be considered in the context of the annual estimates process.
1384. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether his Department has plans for the development and promotion of amateur and community theatre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43960/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Arts Act 2003, the Arts Council has primary responsibility for the development of the arts in Ireland and Budget 2025 has provided record funding of €140 million for the Arts Council. The Arts Council is committed to increasing public engagement in the arts in Ireland and it provides financial support to a number of initiatives aimed at increasing public access, participation and engagement in the arts.
The Arts Council invests funding in a range of art forms and developmental projects including Creative Schools, Creative Places, Creative Europe and Culture Night. For example, Culture Night, in collaboration with RTÉ, creates opportunities for artists at all levels. Details of all these programmes are available on the Arts Council's website. The Council also supports festivals across the country providing opportunities for performances of many forms.
I am informed by the Arts Council that the development of amateur drama in Ireland is currently supported through the Theatre team who support theatre artists at all stages of their careers to create work that reflects Ireland out to the world and back on itself. Creative Ireland Programme funding through my Department is also supporting the delivery of a number of creative projects nationwide including amateur drama.
Additionally, a network of cultural infrastructure exists throughout the country with the majority in the ownership of local authorities. Annual support, including programming and revenue supports, is provided to these arts centres by local authorities and the Arts Council. These arts centres are where amateur and professional artists and audiences meet and this is a key part of the Arts Council strategy to invest in public engagement.
My Department focuses on providing capital grant funding to assist development and to maintain these arts and cultural facilities. Funding is administered through applications received for specific grant schemes.
Notwithstanding the official supports described above, it would be appropriate to mention the significant number of commercial sponsors who also contribute towards the national associations and annual programmes for amateur drama and musicals. I take this opportunity to acknowledge their generous support to the national bodies and also to commend the special contribution of the title sponsor of the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival in Athlone which took place from the 8th to the 16th of May this year in Athlone under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland.
1385. Deputy Sinéad Gibney asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport his plans to ensure decision-making in the granting of monies directly from his Department to arts festivals and organisations is done in an equitable and transparent manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43961/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Culture, Communications and Sport operates four annual grant schemes in support of arts festivals and organisations, - each with particular requirements re eligibility of applications and support levels. Information in relation to these schemes and all allocations made under the schemes are available on the Departmental website. These schemes are:-
• Small Scale festivals and Summer Schools
(2025: allocations amounting to €293,252 in respect of 64 successful applications),
• Co-operation with Northern Ireland
(2025: allocations amounting to €182,721 in respect of 15 successful applications),
• Mobility of Collections Scheme,
(2025: allocations amounting to €34,780 in respect of 2 successful applications),
and
• Regional Museums Expansion Scheme
• (2025: allocations amounting to €192,193 in respect of 17 successful applications).
The opening and closing dates for applications are announced through the Department’s Press Office each year. Commencing from 2025, applications were submitted through an online portal that seeks to ensure complete information is provided in a standardised template along with any required supporting material. An assessment panel of three officials was convened to consider each of the applications and make recommendations with regard to eligibility and support. An oversight review is conducted at management level in the Business Unit in relation to conformity and resource availability to prepare the proposal for consideration by the Minister.
The availability of the annual schemes providing support for Arts festivals and organisations does not preclude the possibility of a direct approach to the Department by a body seeking assistance or support in exceptional circumstances. In such cases, procedures similar to the above will be pursued by officials in relation to assessment and to prepare a recommendation for consideration by the Minister. In the event of an allocation of funding, the body will be identified and the support specified in the statement of expenditure on the Departmental website.
I am satisfied that the assessment and funding of arts festivals and organisations is done in an equitable and transparent manner. Nonetheless, I would be grateful to receive any suggestions or concerns the Deputy would wish to convey in relation to this funding in general or relating to a specific instance.
1386. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if he will provide a timeframe for the opening of the next round of sports capital grants applications. [43975/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraOver a quarter of a billion euro was allocated to 3,048 community sports clubs and facilities in 2024 from the 2023 round of the Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF), benefitting over forty sports, as well as multi-sport facilities, throughout the country. This represents the largest-ever investment in sports facilities in communities across Ireland.
In line with previous rounds of the programme, a review of the current funding round will be undertaken and that review will inform the timing of the next round of the CSFF. However, I would anticipate that the next round should be announced in 2026.
1387. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport whether current recipients of the sports capital fund need to have their existing grant drawn down and completed before they can reapply in the next scheme. [44390/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is not a requirement for applicants to the Community Sport Facilities Fund (CSFF) to have existing grants drawn down before they can apply for funding under subsequent CSFF rounds.
However, timely progress of projects and drawdown of allocations is certainly a goal under CSFF and, under the most recent (2023) round which saw allocations made in 2024, successful applicants have been advised that they should demonstrate a substantial amount of progress on the project to facilitate the drawdown of the grant by end-September 2026.
In line with previous CSFF rounds, a review of the current funding round will be undertaken and that will inform the timing of the next round of the CSFF. However, I would anticipate that the next round should be announced in 2026.
1388. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to outline the allocation of European Union and European Investment Bank funds available for the construction and refurbishment of social housing in the four Dublin counties within the last five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43575/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraNo direct funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB) has been utilised for the construction or refurbishment of social housing within the four Dublin local authorities over the past five years.
The social housing programme is primarily financed through Exchequer resources, allocated via the Department's Voted expenditure and in the case of some AHBs borrowing from the Housing Finance Agency. In addition, supplementary funding is provided through the Local Property Tax (LPT) self-funding mechanism.
1389. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to request from An Coimisiún Pleanála a copy of any submissions received from national or regional health authorities regarding the recent decision permitting continued night flights at Dublin Airport, specifically addressing public health and sleep disruption risks for surrounding communities; if he will confirm whether expert respiratory or sleep medicine consultants provided An Coimisiún Pleanála with specialised health reports or assessments to assist in evaluating the health implications for affected populations in view of the fact that since August 2022, over 400 households entitled to noise mitigation measures have remained without protection; if he will advise whether any public health assessment or population-level risk analysis was submitted to, or considered by, An Coimisiún Pleanála prior to their decision. [43840/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn Coimisiún Pleanála is the national independent statutory body with responsibility for the determination of planning appeals and direct applications for strategic infrastructure and other developments under the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, and certain other Acts.
Under section 30 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended the Minister shall not exercise any power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or An Coimisiún is or may be concerned.
Arrangements have been put in place by all bodies under the aegis of my Department to facilitate the provision of information directly to members of the Oireachtas. This provides a speedy, efficient and cost effective system to address queries directly to the relevant bodies. The contact email address for An Coimisiún Pleanála in this regard is Oireachtasqueries@pleanala.ie.
1390. Deputy Rory Hearne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the implementation of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024 to earmark certain cost-rental units for local key workers, including teachers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43908/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is acutely aware of the housing challenges faced by many sectors of society. The Government's current housing plan, Housing for All, contains a suite of actions that have increased, and will continue to increase, the provision of housing through accelerating supply and increasing the affordability of homes.
The Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2024 included new provisions related to the Cost Rental sector aimed at improving access for certain cohorts, including those who may be categorised as local key workers such as teachers.
On 2 July, under the provisions of this Act, I made the Affordable Housing Act 2021 (Cost Rental Allocation Plan) Regulations 2025. These Regulations provide for the introduction of Allocation Plans for Cost Rental which can prioritise homes for those with a link to an area though residence, employment, or children’s education. This will support people to live and work in their local area.
1391. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department has assessed Dublin City Council’s funding capacity to deliver major public realm improvements along Main Street, Finglas. [44115/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that there are plans for Finglas Village to address pedestrian and cycling facilities, while significantly improving the public realm. The Finglas Village Improvement Scheme is part of the Dublin City Council (DCC) core active travel network and that is co-funded by the National Transport Authority and DCC. My Department has no function in relation to this particular scheme.
Local authorities receive income from a variety of sources including grants from Central Government, Local Property Tax proceeds, commercial rates and other locally-raised charges. Central Government funding of local authorities similarly presents a complex picture, with transfers, both current and capital, coming from a wide range of Departments and Offices for a variety of purposes.
Local authorities are entirely independent corporate entities having full responsibility under law for the performance of their functions and the discharge of their governance and other responsibilities. It is a matter for each local authority to determine its own spending priorities, including funding towards the provision of public realm improvements, having regard to both locally identified needs and available resources.
1392. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the details of submissions received from Clare County Council for the development of new affordable housing schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40731/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraClare County Council is demonstrating a strong commitment to developing and delivering an affordable housing delivery programme that will respond effectively to identified needs for affordable housing within the County and in the key urban locations of Ennis and Shannon in particular.
My role as Minister is to lead the development of policy and legislation relating to the provision of affordable housing generally and to oversee the subvention of schemes approved under the Affordable Housing Fund. In line with Part 2 of the Affordable Housing Act 2021, the administration of an affordable purchase housing scheme, including its announcement once any contractual arrangements with developers are securely in place, is a matter for the relevant local authority.
Clare County Council will therefore be best placed to assist you in relation to prospective affordable schemes that are under development within the local authority area.
My Department, the Housing Agency and the Housing Delivery Coordination Office of the LGMA will continue to provide every reasonable support to enable Clare County Council to further develop its affordable delivery programme.
1393. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the details of any submission or correspondence received by his Department since March 2025 from Limerick City and County Council, Clare County Council and-or the University of Limerick regarding the proposed development of an economic strategic development zone at Gillogue, Clonlara, County Clare. [40732/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has not received any correspondence since March 2025 from Limerick City and County Council, Clare County Council or the University of Limerick regarding the proposed development of an economic strategic development zone at Gillogue, Clonlara, County Clare.
1394. Deputy Joe Cooney asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the details of all full- and part-time staff employed at the Met Éireann facility in Shannon Airport in December 2019 and June 2025; the details of investments made in the Shannon operation since December 2019; and his plans for future investments. [40733/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraDetails of staffing numbers of Met Éireann staff based in Shannon Airport in the years in question are set out in the table below.
|
- |
Full Time |
Part Time |
|
2019 |
12 |
1 |
|
2025 |
16 |
2 |
During the specified period Met Éireann invested in upgrading its aeronautical weather observations system at 5 airports at which it provides an aviation weather observation service – including Shannon Airport. The purpose of the upgrade was to replace aging systems and to ensure compliance with ICAO standards and EU Regulations governing the provision of meteorological information to the aviation sector. The new systems implemented at Shannon provide the capability to deliver higher resolution and more representative weather information in support of airport operations, Air Traffic Control, commercial airline operators and State aviation. These systems will become fully operational in Quarter 4 of 2025. The costs of the projects that were relevant to the Shannon Airport upgrades over the period December 2019 to June 2025 amount to €324,000.
The Shannon radar replacement and upgrade was completed in Q3 2023 when a new state of the art dual-polarisation weather radar was successfully installed and commission in Shannon Airport. The expenditure on Shannon radar so far is €2,129,390.
Future investments up to €75,000 is expected this year, for built-in shelving and a new hatch door up to the Radome.
1395. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the small villages that are currently participating in measure A8 regarding the wastewater collection and treatment needs for villages and settlements without access to public wastewater services scheme. [40771/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1396. Deputy Liam Quaide asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will ensure that Rooskagh Valley, Shanagarry, County Cork, is included in any future measure A8 regarding the wastewater collection and treatment needs for villages and settlements without access to public wastewater services schemes. [40772/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1395 and 1396 together.
My Department's current Multi-annual Rural Water Programme covers the period up to the end of 2026.
Under this cycle of the Programme, funding of more than €45 million is approved in principle for seven projects under measure A8 as a funding contribution to local authorities for projects to address the wastewater collection and treatment needs for villages without access to public wastewater services.
Details of the approved projects are available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/press-releases/minister-obrien-announces-successful-applications-under-50-million-rural-water-scheme/
Separately, there are a number of housing estates across the country that rely on developer provided infrastructure, including Rooskeagh Valley Estate in Shanagarry, for their water services. The water services infrastructure in these locations is commonly called DPI.
With effect from 1 January 2024, Uisce Éireann, as the national water authority, has responsibility for the remediation of DPI. I understand that Uisce Éireann has written to the residents of the Rooskeagh Valley Estate outlining the steps it is taking to resolve the issues within their estate, both in the short and longer term.
1397. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the issues identified with the serviced sites scheme, considering only four local authorities have provided for the scheme and no houses have been sold; and his plans to make the scheme a success. [40797/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1398. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of local councils who provide a serviced sites scheme; the number of sites currently proposed by each local authority; the number of serviced sites being built currently in each local authority; and the number of sites available to purchase in each local authority, in tabular form. [40798/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1399. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is aware of the issues local authorities are having in providing serviced sites schemes; if he has met with local authorities to discuss the serviced sites scheme; if the scheme is to be enacted to deal with any shortcomings highlighted by the local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40799/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1397 to 1399, inclusive, together.
The Ready to Build Scheme, funded by the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund, to support addressing vacancy, was launched in September 2022.
Under the scheme, local authorities identify suitable vacant sites in their ownership or purchase vacant sites in towns and villages and make them available for sale to individual purchasers for the purpose of building a principal private residence. Once serviced, the local authority will make the site available for sale at a discount on the market value of the site. The level of discount to the individual will depend on the level of servicing cost incurred by the local authority before the sale of the site, up to a maximum of €30,000.
The scheme is managed and administered by local authorities on behalf of my Department. To date 32 sites have been made available for sale by 4 local authorities, 5 sites in Wicklow, 16 sites in Laois, 4 sites in Tipperary and 7 sites by Kildare County Council. The relevant local authority assesses the applications they receive based on the framework of priorities contained in the scheme outline.
A further 70+ sites have been identified by various local authorities for possible inclusion in the scheme. These sites are at various stages of consideration to determine the costs involved to service the sites and ascertaining the potential level of interest in site purchase. It is not, therefore, possible to determine the number of sites that will be made available for sale under the scheme until this process is completed. The Vacant Homes Unit in my Department is continuing to engage with local authorities in relation to the scheme.
A review of the schemes under the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund, including the Ready to Build Scheme, was undertaken in 2024. Local authorities were consulted with as part of the review, which was undertaken by Indecon Consultants That review has been completed and is under consideration.
In addition, the Programme for Government also contains a commitment for the Ready to Build Scheme and my Department is currently progressing work on this.
1400. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is aware of a group water scheme in County Mayo (details supplied); if he is aware that the scheme is operating over 800 connections; if he is aware that the scheme has made multiple applications for takeover by Uisce Éireann; if he will provide an update on the applications for the takeover of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40822/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1645. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Glencorrib Group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43946/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1646. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Tooreen Aughamore group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43947/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1647. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for the PBKS group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43948/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1648. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Nephin Valley group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43949/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1649. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Midfield group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43950/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1650. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Lough Cumnel group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43951/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1651. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Lough Carra group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43952/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1652. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Kilmeena group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43953/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1653. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Killaturley group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43954/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1654. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Killasser group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43955/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1659. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Callow Lake group water scheme, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43969/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1660. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage with regard to the recent announcement of NDP investment in water infrastructure, for an update and timeline for the takeover for Fahy group water scheme extension to Deerpark, Aghagower, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43970/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1661. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to supply a breakdown of the €140,000 funding, recently announced as part of the NDP investment in water infrastructure, for raw water monitoring and sampling bundle in each of group water schemes in County Mayo (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43971/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1662. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to supply a breakdown of the €1,421,650 funding, recently announced as part of the NDP investment in water infrastructure, for group water schemes in County Mayo (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43972/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1663. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to supply a breakdown of the €2,637,000 funding, recently announced as part of the NDP investment in water infrastructure, for group water schemes in County Mayo (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43973/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1400, 1645 to 1654, inclusive, and 1659 to 1663, inclusive, together.
My Department's Multi-annual Rural Water Programme is the main funding stream providing capital funding to address the challenges faced by the Rural Water Sector.
The overall purpose of the Programme is to provide the necessary funding to improve the quality, quantity and reliability of the water services relied upon by rural dwellers, where public water services are not available.
I recently announced funding of almost €74 million under the Programme. The funding provides much needed capital investment to improve water services in rural areas. Details of my announcement can be found as the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/press-releases/minister-browne-announces-74-million-capital-investment-funding-for-rural-water-services/
My Department has written to each of the local authorities that submitted applications advising of the decisions made, including to the local authority in the questions asked or in the details supplied.
The administration of the Programme is devolved to local authorities. Each local authority – Mayo County Council in this instance - has a Rural Water Liaison Officer who deals with the day to day administration of the Programme and can provide specific information on applications, including those for the schemes/projects named in the questions asked or in the details supplied.
1401. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the updated planning guidelines for wind farms will be issued; the reason for the ongoing delay in publishing same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40829/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1404. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on his Department’s review of ##wind energy development guidelines and the publication of the revised guidelines. [40847/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1434. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage for an update on the publication of the wind energy guidelines. [41277/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1609. Deputy Joe Neville asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide an update on the ongoing review of current wind farm development guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43219/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1621. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when he anticipates revising the wind energy development guidelines for planning authorities. [43578/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1401, 1404, 1434, 1609 and 1621 together.
My Department 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, in conjunction with the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE), which has primary responsibility for environmental noise matters, has been working to advance guidance on the noise aspect of the Guidelines, which is highly technical in nature. The two Departments have been engaging on proposals regarding the measurement and assessment of noise from wind turbines to ensure they are robust and fit for purpose having regard to, inter alia, the revised 2030 target to generate up to 80% of our electricity from renewable sources.
Further to this engagement, DCEE, in the context of its environmental noise remit, appointed noise consultants in May 2023 to inform any amendments to the noise aspect of the Guidelines. This work is now substantially complete.
My Department, in conjunction with DCEE, will make any further changes to the draft Guidelines which are deemed necessary or appropriate in the wake of this work to ensure that the finalised Guidelines, once issued, are fit for purpose to provide guidance in line with renewable energy and climate targets, whilst having appropriate regard to the impacts of wind energy development, including in relation to noise annoyance.
The evolving policy and technical context including the new Planning and Development Act 2024, which was signed by the President on 17 October 2024, and the recent revision of the National Planning Framework (NPF) reinforces the need to ensure that the finalised Guidelines, once issued, are fit for purpose.
In addition to this work, and in line with EU Directive requirements, a strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is being carried out on the draft Guidelines as part of the review process. In this regard, my Department intends to undertake a public consultation on updated draft Guidelines as part of the SEA process whereby all interested parties will have an opportunity to submit observations on the draft Guidelines. Finalised Guidelines will be prepared following detailed analysis and consideration of the submissions received during the consultation phase.
My Department notes the commitment in the recently published Programme for Government 2025 – Securing Ireland’s Future to prioritise the publication of the Wind Energy Development Guidelines, having regard to international best practice and standards. In light of this commitment, my Department is working towards concluding the finalisation of review of the Guidelines as a matter of priority, having regard to the intended public consultation and the finalisation of associated reforms and reviews including the revision of the NPF.
When finalised, the revised Guidelines will be issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended or, subject to commencement of the Planning and Development Act 2024, as a National Planning Statement, as appropriate. The current 2006 Wind Energy Development Guidelines remain in force, pending the finalisation of the review.
1402. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the updated planning guidelines for rural houses will be issued; the reason for the ongoing delay in publishing same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40830/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the publication of the current Sustainable Rural Housing Guidelines in 2005 (which continue to have effect in addition to subsequent clarifications and national policy changes in the National Planning Framework) there have been important changes to our planning system. Most notably, obligations under European Directives and international agreements relating to the management and protection of the environment and adapting to and mitigating climate change have become more central to the operation of the planning system.
Updated Rural Housing Guidelines are currently being considered by my Department. The updated guidelines will expand on the high level spatial planning policy of the National Planning Framework (NPF), in particular on National Policy Objective (NPO) 28 which relates to rural housing. This objective makes a clear policy distinction between rural areas under urban influence (i.e. areas within the commuter catchment of cities, large towns and centres of employment) on the one hand, and structurally weaker rural areas where population levels may be low or declining, on the other. NPO 28 is also aligned with the established approach whereby considerations of social or economic need are to be applied by planning authorities in rural areas under urban influence.
The draft Rural Housing Guidelines will set out relevant planning criteria to be applied in local authority development plans for rural housing, based on the high level policy framework set by the NPF. The guidelines will continue to allow county development plans to provide for housing in the countryside based on the considerations detailed in NPO 28 of the NPF, and will also highlight the need to manage development in certain areas, such as the areas around cities and larger towns and environmentally sensitive areas, in order to avoid over-development.
While planning policy is a national, as opposed to an EU competence, due care is being taken to ensure the updated guidelines will not operate to conflict with fundamental EU freedoms, comply with EU environmental legislative requirements and have due regard to decisions of the European Court of Justice. The draft planning guidelines will address these complex environmental and legal issues, while also providing a framework for the sustainable management of housing in rural areas.
1403. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total spend by his Department on external legal services in each of the past three years; the main areas of legal activity for which external advice was sought; if she will provide a breakdown by case or category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40839/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy in accordance with Standing Orders.
1405. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when a decision will be made on funding allocations for the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme 2024-2026 under measure A5 – Extensions and new schemes; if a decision has been made on a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40869/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department's Multi-annual Rural Water Programme is the main funding stream providing capital funding to address the challenges faced by the Rural Water Sector.
The overall purpose of the Programme is to provide the necessary funding to improve the quality, quantity and reliability of the water services relied upon by rural dwellers, where public water services are not available.
I recently announced funding of almost €74 million under the Programme. The funding provides much needed capital investment to improve water services in rural areas. Details of my announcement can be found as the following link: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/press-releases/minister-browne-announces-74-million-capital-investment-funding-for-rural-water-services/
My Department has written to each of the local authorities that submitted applications advising of the decisions made, including to the local authority in the details supplied.
The administration of the Programme is devolved to local authorities. Each local authority has a Rural Water Liaison Officer who deals with the day to day administration of the Programme and can provide specific information on applications including those for the scheme named in the details supplied.
1406. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the amount spent on legal fees associated with litigation, advice and settlements in each of the past three years by his Department and agencies under its aegis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40883/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra1470. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether any legal engagements have exceeded their initial estimated or approved cost in the past three years; if so, the number of such cases and the total overrun; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41615/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1406 and 1470 together.
The information requested is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy in accordance with Standing Orders.
|
Year |
Amount € |
|
2022 |
0 |
|
2023 |
232,470 |
|
2024 |
56,659 |
|
2025 (to date) |
7,3180 |
|
Year |
Amount € |
|
2022 |
93,336 |
|
2023 |
1,212,062 |
|
2024 |
107,544 |
|
Bodies under the Aegis of DHLGH |
Oireachtas email |
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An Coimisiún Pleanála |
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An Fóram Uisce |
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Approved Housing Bodies Regulatory Authority |
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Construction Industry Register Ireland |
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Docklands Oversight and Consultative Forum |
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Gas Networks Ireland |
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Heritage Council |
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Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency |
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Housing Finance Agency |
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Land Development Agency |
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Local Government Management Agency |
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National Oversight and Audit Commission |
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National Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee |
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Office of the Planning Regulator |
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Pyrite Resolution Board |
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Residential Tenancies Board |
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Tailte Éireann |
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Uisce Éireann |
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Valuation Tribunal |
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Waterways Ireland |
