Séamus McGrath
Ceist:95. Deputy Séamus McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update regarding the proposed building extension for a school (details supplied). [46222/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraSchools Building Projects
Ceisteanna (95)
Freagraí scríofa
As per previous correspondence, the school to which the Deputy refers was approved to enter my Department's pipeline of projects under the Additional School Accommodation (ASA) scheme. The project will provide one mainstream classroom, two Special Education Tuition (SET) rooms, and a two class-room special education needs (SEN) base. The project was devolved to the school authority to deliver.
My Department are currently awaiting the submission of the Stage 2a (developed design) report from the school authority. Once received, a comprehensive review will be undertaken from a technical and cost perspective as required under the Infrastructure Guidelines.
School Staff
Ceisteanna (96)
Martin Daly
Ceist:96. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Education and Youth the number of primary schools in counties Roscommon and Galway that are projected to lose a mainstream teaching post for the 2026/2027 school year, due to enrolment falling marginally below the staffing schedule thresholds; and whether consideration will be given to additional flexibility for small rural schools. [46231/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing schedule is an allocation mechanism that uses enrolment bands to determine the number of classroom teaching posts allocated to a school. The primary staffing schedule plays a central role in supporting sustainability at school level by aligning staffing resources with enrolment patterns in a clear and consistent manner treating all similar types of schools equally, irrespective of location.
Within the staffing arrangements (Circular 0025/2026), there are options available to schools to apply for additional staffing. Schools experiencing rapid increases in enrolment can apply for additional permanent mainstream posts, using projected enrolment. There is also a staffing appeals mechanism for schools to apply to an independent Primary Staffing Appeals Board, under certain published criteria, including one aimed specifically at small schools.
The allocation process for the 2026/27 school year is currently underway and staffing for schools will not be finalised until the Autumn, when the staffing appeal and projected enrolment processes have been completed.
School Staff
Ceisteanna (97)
John Clendennen
Ceist:97. Deputy John Clendennen asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she will provide an update on the application submitted by a school (details supplied) for an additional special needs assistant (SNA) allocation to support the delivery of its School-Based Summer Programme commencing on 22 June 2026; when a decision on the business case submitted by the school over a week ago is expected; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46248/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Details of the 2026 Summer Programme were communicated to all schools on the 6th May 2026.
All schools have been offered the opportunity to run a school-based programme for children with the most complex special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage. Where a school does not intend to run a school-based programme or there is no place on the programme for an eligible child, schools were invited to make an application for the home-based programme.
As communicated to all schools at the outset, it is intended that schools will be engaged with on an individual basis in the week commencing the 25th May. During that period, schools will receive a follow-up email confirming the number of pupils approved to participate in this year’s programme, along with their school’s assigned staffing allocation. This approach ensures that each school receives clear, tailored information to assist with effective planning.
In the case of the school referred to by the Deputy, Department officials have confirmed that they have been engaging directly with the school in relation to their allocation for the Summer Programme.
Schools Building Projects
Ceisteanna (98)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Ceist:98. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Youth for an update on the status of the project at a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46337/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The project referred to by the Deputy has been devolved to the Joint Managerial Body (JMB) for delivery.
The project brief for Coláiste an Phiarsaigh provides for a long-term projected enrolment of 750 pupils including four Special Educational Needs (SEN) classrooms.
The project is currently at Stage 2b of the architectural design process. This allows for detailed design and planning, obtaining the necessary statutory permissions and the preparation of tender documents. Planning permission was granted in November 2025. The department awaits submission of a Stage 2b report. Once received, it will undergo a detailed technical and cost review in line with the Government’s Infrastructure Guidelines.
Since 2020, my department has invested over €6.9 billion in our schools throughout the country under the National Development Plan, involving the completion of over 1,400 school building projects along with over 4,000 small-scale improvement works to meet priority maintenance needs and advance energy efficiency and climate goal. In addition, repurposing and optimisation of existing accommodation capacity across the school estate has been a key enabler of timely, local provision of special class capacity in a way that supports best practice in inclusion and integration. Circa 80% of new special classes in 2025/26 are being facilitated in repurposed classroom accommodation. This investment has delivered real benefits for school communities.
A total capital allocation of €7.55 billion for the Department of Education and Youth has been confirmed for the period 2026-2030 under the National Development Plan. As part of this NDP allocation my department will place a strong emphasis on provision for children with special educational needs, with a particular focus on meeting annual school place needs. In relation to project rollout for Large-Scale projects and Additional School Accommodation scheme projects, the approach will be to continue to maximise the capacity of the existing school estate as much as possible in the first instance and provide necessary additional capacity through targeted and prioritised project rollout over the course of 2026 to 2030 period to meet the most urgent and prioritised needs.
As part of the NDP Implementation Plan for the education and youth sector, a first tranche of projects to progress to tender and/or construction during 2026 and 2027 was published in January 2026. Prioritisation will continue to identify further tranches of projects to proceed to tender and construction over the NDP period, with stakeholder consultation to commence in June 2026.
Our NDP Implementation Plan will optimise outputs from the NDP allocations, with a strong focus on maximising existing school capacity, progressing priority projects where local capacity across schools in the area is insufficient, and ensuring delivery that is affordable, offers value for money, and meets functional needs.
The current status of all projects continues to be set out under item number ten at the following link: www.gov.ie. This is updated on a regular basis to reflect project progress through the various stages of capital appraisal, site acquisition, design, tender and construction.
School Staff
Ceisteanna (99, 100, 101, 102)
Peter 'Chap' Cleere
Ceist:99. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Education and Youth when attaching an additional payment specifically to teachers in DEIS schools, the way in which her Department ensures this policy does not contribute to the labelling or stigmatisation of children attending DEIS schools. [46339/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPeter 'Chap' Cleere
Ceist:100. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Education and Youth the basis on which it was decided that teachers, but not SNAs or other frontline staff, should receive the allowance for teachers in DEIS schools. [46340/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPeter 'Chap' Cleere
Ceist:101. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Education and Youth the way in which the policy of attaching an additional payment is considered equitable when all school staff work collaboratively to support children with additional and complex needs. [46341/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraPeter 'Chap' Cleere
Ceist:102. Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department assessed the impact the decision to attach an additional payment for teachers in DEIS school may have on staff morale and inclusivity within schools. [46342/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 99, 100, 101 and 102 together.
Under the Public Service Agreement 2024–2026 (PSA), which has been approved by Government and applies to all public servants, pay increases totalling 9.25% are provided for up to June 2026. These terms were collectively agreed with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.
The PSA also contains a local bargaining provision under which employers and trade unions/associations may negotiate additional changes in rates of pay and/or conditions of employment. The PSA concludes on 30 June 2026.
As teachers are represented by a number of trade unions, it is for each representative organisation to negotiate on behalf of their members.
The INTO, representing the primary education sector, has opted to use their Local Bargaining Fund to settle a number of claims one of which is the Allowance for Primary Teachers working in DEIS Band One and DEIS plus Schools. This allowance will be paid to Teachers employed in recognised DEIS Schools, who satisfy the eligibility criteria as outlined in Department of Education and Youth circular 55/2026.
Negotiations for the 1% fund with Fórsa Trade Union representing SNAs is ongoing with the Department.
The DEIS strategy to 2035 focuses on fairness and inclusion, embedding these principles in every aspect of school policy, practice and support. It sets out a more flexible model of support, so that resources are aligned with each school’s level of need as it changes over time. The new DEIS Plus scheme, which will commence this year, launched as part of the strategy, represents the most significant expansion of targeted supports since the establishment of DEIS.
Additional amendments to teacher and SNA Terms and Conditions, including pay, can only be achieved through engagement and collective bargaining agreements between the Government and the Public Service unions. Such changes can occur only under those processes, and any such proposals would need to be considered in detail by the Department, the Department of Public Expenditure Infrastructure Public Service Reform and Digitalisation and the relevant unions.
Question No. 100 answered with Question No. 99.
Question No. 101 answered with Question No. 99.
Question No. 102 answered with Question No. 99.
Education Policy
Ceisteanna (103)
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Ceist:103. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth if her Department has conducted an assessment of the locations most appropriate for new Irish-medium provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46343/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
On 4 November 2025, my department published a 'Framework and action plan for delivery of increased choice for parents on education provision at primary level'. The main focus of this framework and action plan was an online, school-specific survey. The survey ran from 4 November to 16 December 2025.
Through the survey, my department has obtained clear information on the preferences of parents and guardians about the primary schools which their children currently attend, or will attend in coming years, on a number of important areas of primary school provision, including language of instruction (Irish or English).
On 4 June, my department issued primary schools, including schools that teach through English and schools that teach through Irish, with their school-specific results and explanatory information, marking the next stage in the process of engaging school communities on the future direction of their schools.
My department will publish all school-specific reports and the explanatory information pack for schools on the gov.ie website in mid-June. High-level survey results at a national level, including a county breakdown of the results, will also be published at that time.
Where the survey results show demand for change, Boards of Management have the opportunity to consider being included in the first group of schools to action the survey results, following a period of engagement and consultation with their school community, including their parents and Parent’s Association, Student Council, school staff and local community, including parents with children not yet in school. Schools are being asked to inform my department and their patron by 31 October 2026 if the school requests to be included in the first group of schools to action the survey results.
The survey results are intended to support meaningful local engagement and informed decision-making at school level. My department will continue to support and engage with schools as they consider their individual results and next steps.
The Programme for Government 2025, Securing Ireland’s Future, includes a commitment to establish Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí where there is demand and support parents choosing Irish-medium education for their children.
My department recently published a ‘Policy for Irish-medium Education outside of the Gaeltacht’.
A key recommendation of this report was the establishment of a Taskforce on Models of Provision for Irish-medium Education, which commenced its work in November 2025.
The role of the taskforce is to provide a platform for collaboration between the department and key stakeholders to develop a pathway to increase provision of Irish-medium education nationally. The taskforce's work is expected to be completed within one year. It will make recommendations to the department on areas such as the criteria for Irish-medium education provision, how to support schools transitioning to Irish-medium and mechanisms to facilitate expansion of provision.
Finally, my department has invested over €500m over the last 6 years in building new school buildings and modernising existing facilities for Irish medium schools across the country. This investment has included the construction of 10 new school buildings for Irish medium schools during this period.
My department will continue to support Irish medium provision as part of NDP rollout during the 2026 to 2030 period.
Education Policy
Ceisteanna (104)
Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh
Ceist:104. Deputy Shónagh Ní Raghallaigh asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she has sought legal advice on the rights of families to compel the State to provide Irish-medium education on the grounds of discrimination; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46344/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Where appropriate, my department seeks legal advice on issues arising in the course of its work. Any legal advice obtained is subject to legal professional privilege and it would not be appropriate to comment on any such advice.
The Education Act 1998 identifies the role of my department as being “to promote the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents’ choice having regard to the rights of patrons and the effective and efficient use of resources”. I am committed to supporting Irish-medium education and to providing opportunities for children and young people to receive their education through the medium of Irish.
The Programme for Government 2025 – Securing Ireland's Future – contains commitments to expand opportunities for pupils and students to attend Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí, to establish Gaelscoileanna and Gaelcholáistí where there is demand, and to support parents who choose Irish-medium education for their children.
The Policy for Irish-Medium Education outside of the Gaeltacht was launched in November 2025. The policy sets out my department's vision that high-quality Irish-medium education will be available to all, in inclusive and multicultural educational settings. I am committed to my department working with stakeholders to achieve that vision, and to make progress towards delivering on the commitments of the Programme for Government.
The Taskforce on Models of Provision for Irish-Medium Education, which was established under the Policy for Irish-Medium Education outside of the Gaeltacht, is providing a platform for collaboration between my department and key stakeholders to identify a pathway to increase the provision of Irish-medium education. I look forward to the outcome of this taskforce, and I hope that our stakeholders will seize the opportunities it will provide to strengthen and expand the provision of Irish-medium education.
School Transport
Ceisteanna (105)
Thomas Gould
Ceist:105. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Education and Youth if she is aware of the funding deficit experienced by a school (details supplied) in the implementation of school transport services; and if she will meet with the school to resolve this issue. [46348/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The School Transport Scheme is a significant operation managed by Bus Éireann on behalf of the Department of Education and Youth.
There is a facility within the Special Educational Needs Transport Scheme for the appointment of a school transport escort where a child’s care and safety needs while on school transport are such as to require the support of a School Transport Escort.
The Board of Management/ETB are responsible for the employment of the school transport escort. The Department of Education and Youth provides grant funding directly to the school for the employment of the school transport escort and sets the rate of pay.
Following a review of the School Transport Scheme, the Department committed to continuing the comprehensive analysis of matters relating to escort's pay, and the information provided to schools as the employer of the escort.
The work by School Transport Section regarding the employment of school bus escorts has been completed and an information pack has issued to schools. This pack is updated regularly and is also available on the Department’s website.
The school in question has approached the department in relation to supplementary funding required for the employment of additional school bus escorts. Department officials have recently met with the school principal, Board of Management and Patron in this regard and continues to engage with the school on the matter.
Special Educational Needs
Ceisteanna (106)
Aidan Farrelly
Ceist:106. Deputy Aidan Farrelly asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to fully fund and resource the July provision; if her attention has been drawn to shortfalls in human resources to deliver the provision; and her plans to address that matter. [46349/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Details of the 2026 Summer Programme were announced on 6th May.
All schools have been offered the opportunity to run a school-based programme for children with the most complex special educational needs and those at risk of educational disadvantage. Where a school does not intend to run a school-based programme or there is no place on the programme for an eligible child, schools were invited to make an application for the home-based programme.
In addition to there being no change in the eligibility criteria and the terms and conditions of the Summer Programme from previous years, there has also been no reduction in funding for the Summer Programme in primary, post-primary or special schools in terms of staffing.
Instead, as communicated to all schools at the outset, it is intended that schools would be engaged with on an individual basis confirming the number of pupils approved to participate in this year’s programme, along with their school’s assigned staffing allocation. This approach ensures that each school receives clear, tailored information to support effective planning and that every child eligible for the Summer Programme is accommodated with the appropriate resources in line with the published programme terms.
Special Educational Needs
Ceisteanna (107)
Noel McCarthy
Ceist:107. Deputy Noel McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Youth to provide an update on an application for a special class allocation for a school (details supplied); if it is envisaged that the provision of a special class will be made available to the school ahead of the upcoming 2026-2027 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46350/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is the statutory body responsible for the provision of special education and allocating supports for students with special educational needs.
The NCSE actively encourage expressions of interest from schools to open special classes, and I appreciate and commend the efforts taken by boards of management in expressing their interest. However, it is not always possible to open a special class in every school that expresses an interest.
When assessing the needs in the local area, the NCSE identify schools in the neighbouring vicinity with available special class vacancies or capacity and assess their capability with consideration to demographical and statistical data.
My department and the NCSE continue to work closely with school patron bodies, school management bodies and schools to confirm new special classes for the next school year 2026/2027. The NCSE began sanctioning new special classes in January of this year, which is several months earlier than last year.
In addition, I recently announced inclusive special classes as part of a new approach to supporting students with additional needs. This is one of many ways my department is actively engaging to meet the increased demand.
565 new special classes have been sanctioned to date, including 56 inclusive special classes. Further new special classes may be confirmed in the coming weeks.
The earlier sanctioning of new classes provides clarity for parents and allows schools more time for the planning and establishment of new special classes. The vast majority of new special classes being announced are being provided in available school accommodation which is being reconfigured as a special class. Each special class at primary level is allocated 1 teacher and 2 SNAs and at post-primary level, schools receive 1.5 teachers and 2 SNAs. Details of the new special classes are available on the NCSE website.
Of the 565 new special classes, 366 are being established in primary schools and 199 in post-primary schools. New special classes are being established in every county with 66 new special classes confirmed for Cork so far.
Schools seeking to establish new special classes should continue to engage with the NCSE at local level. In sanctioning new special classes, the NCSE have due regard to the level of need in an area and the existing provision, including how many places are expected to be available through the normal movement of students from primary to post-primary or finishing school.
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 achieve their full potential.
School Accommodation
Ceisteanna (108, 109)
Réada Cronin
Ceist:108. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to expand primary school capacity in north Kildare, considering that schools are currently operating considerable waiting lists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46369/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRéada Cronin
Ceist:109. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Youth her plans to expand secondary school capacity in north Kildare, considering that schools are currently operating considerable waiting lists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [46370/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 108 and 109 together.
I can assure the Deputy that the provision of school places to meet the needs of children and young people at primary and post primary level, including children and young people with special educational needs is an absolute priority of mine.
Since 2020, my Department has provided over €414 million in capital funding for Kildare schools. Over this period, a total of 55 schools have been upgraded either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension or provision of modular accommodation. As per the NDP Implementation Plan, 12 school projects were included and are due to go to tender or construction in 2026 and 2027. In addition, there are currently 14 school projects in Kildare under construction. Further details on school building projects can be found on the department’s website: www.gov.ie.
The annual enrolment process for new Junior Infants at primary and new First Years at post-primary is a very large-scale operation that is transacted at close to 4,000 schools across the country, involving some 140,000 pupils. While my department is aware of enrolment pressures and demand for additional school places in some areas, it is important to note that enrolment pressures can be driven by duplication of applications, applications from outside an area, and school of choice factors. Notwithstanding the above, in some areas, demographic pressures and other factors are driving a requirement for additional school places.
Primary school enrolments at a national level have been in decline for a number of years and this downward demographic trend is also now apparent at first year post primary level. There are, however, continued pressures in some areas where there is high demand with continued population growth and housing development driving the need for additional school places.
Regarding post-primary school places, the data sharing arrangements that were in place for the 2025/26 admissions process were in place again for the 2026/27 admissions process in school planning areas that are experiencing enrolment pressures, including areas in North Kildare.
For the 2025/26 academic year, across North Kildare school planning areas of Celbridge, Kilcock, Leixlip, Maynooth, Naas and Prosperous_Clane, a total of 3.49% of first year places were unfilled.
I wish to advise the Deputy that parents have the right to choose which school to apply to and where the school has places available the pupil should be admitted. However, in schools where there are more applicants than places available, a selection process may 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 pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
The provision of primary and post-primary school places, and the operation of admissions processes are matters for individual school authorities, in line with their published admissions policies and relevant legislation. Schools determine their own intake numbers and maintain their own enrolment and waiting list information. The department does not centrally collate or hold a definitive dataset of available places or waiting lists by school planning area. Information on junior infant and first-year intake numbers for individual schools is published in each school’s Admissions Notice on their respective websites. National enrolment data is available on www.gov.ie.
Question No. 109 answered with Question No. 108.
Telecommunications Infrastructure
Ceisteanna (110)
Malcolm Byrne
Ceist:110. Deputy Malcolm Byrne asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport if there are contingency plans in place to support the Irish economy and protection of data if one of the transatlantic cables are cut or damaged [46395/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The temporary loss of service on a subsea telecommunications cable would not have a noticeable impact on services into and out of Ireland, or on economic activities within the State. Large-volume users of these subsea cables generally diversify their bandwidth requirements across multiple cables. Ireland has 14 international cables landing here which allows for multiple redundant routes for internationally bound data moving in or out of the country. Any damage to a cable would be repaired under existing contracts between the cable owner and the cable repair bodies.
In the longer term, my Department supports additional commercial investment in new cables and is advocating at European and national level for a pro-investment approach to be taken to encourage the development of high-capacity telecommunications networks, including subsea cabling interconnectivity within the EU, including Ireland, and between the EU and third countries.
These cables will provide additional capacity to the market and will provide additional redundant routes. My Department is currently progressing an intervention strategy for the development of direct subsea connectivity between Ireland and the EU to improve the resilience of the cable system serving Ireland.
Coastal Erosion
Ceisteanna (111)
Mairéad Farrell
Ceist:111. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his attention has been drawn to a recent report (details supplied) that was published by University of Galway that analysed eight coastal local authorities and identified 2,279 properties and 570 km of roads at risk of coastal erosion; if his Department are working on a roadmap for an Irish Coastal Change Adaptation Framework; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46147/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department welcomes the recently published working paper prepared by the University of Galway and MKO on behalf of the Climate Change Advisory Council. The issues identified are broadly aligned with matters being examined under the 2023 Inter-Departmental Group Report and its recommendations.
The Government recognises the need for a coordinated, long-term approach to managing coastal change in Ireland, including coastal erosion and coastal flood risk. The Report of the Inter-Departmental Group on National Coastal Change Management Strategy, published on 26 October 2023, sets out 15 recommendations to inform the development of an integrated, whole-of-Government approach to coastal change management.
The 2023 Report provides the current Government roadmap for responding to coastal change in a structured, planned and evidence-based way. These recommendations are structured around three pillars:
governance and capacity building;
improved understanding of risk and technical options; and
management responses to coastal change
Following publication of the 2023 Report, a Steering Group chaired by my Department was established to oversee implementation. The Steering Group includes representatives from relevant Government Departments and State bodies with responsibilities relating to climate adaptation, flood risk management, planning, environmental protection and local government.
A number of working groups have also been established to advance specific thematic areas, including Planning, Legislation, Nature-Based Solutions, and Training and Skills. In addition, the Office of Public Works chairs a working group focused on actions relating to coastal risk assessment and technical options.
Progress to date has focused on putting in place the governance structures and evidence base required to inform future policy decisions. This includes strengthening interdepartmental coordination, progressing work on coastal risk assessment and technical analysis, examining planning and legislative frameworks, and considering approaches to community communication and consultation.
The University of Galway working paper highlights the increasing risks associated with coastal erosion and proposes a roadmap for a Coastal Change Adaptation Framework, addressing areas such as risk data, planning guidance, governance, funding, technical capacity and community engagement. The Department welcomes the insights of this working paper, and notes that the issues raised within are being considered as part of the ongoing implementation of the 2023 Report and the development of a National Coastal Change Management Strategy.
Recommendation 15 of the 2023 Report relates to the development of managed retreat options, including the measures and mechanisms that may be required to support communities and/or individual homes and properties at risk from coastal change, where such an approach is deemed necessary. This work raises complex social, legal, financial, planning and community issues and will require detailed consideration before any policy position can be adopted.
My Department will continue to work closely with the Steering Group, the OPW, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders to progress this important work within the broader national climate adaptation and resilience framework.
Derelict Sites
Ceisteanna (112)
Robert O'Donoghue
Ceist:112. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the total amount of derelict sites levy assessed, collected and outstanding within the Fingal County Council administrative area in 2025 and 2026 to date; the number of sites liable for the levy in each year ahead of the planned transfer of responsibility for the collection of the derelict sites levy from local authorities to the Revenue Commissioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46069/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Derelict Sites Act 1990 imposes a general duty on every owner and occupier of land to take all reasonable steps to ensure that land does not become, or continue to be, a derelict site as defined in the Act. The Act also imposes a duty on local authorities to take all reasonable steps, including the exercise of appropriate statutory powers, to ensure that any land within their functional area does not become, or continue to be, a derelict site.
Each local authority maintains a Derelict Sites Register under section 8 of the Act for sites which they consider are derelict under the Act. Sites entered on the Derelict Sites Register are subject to an annual Derelict Sites Levy of 7% of the market value of the property which will continue to apply until the site is rendered non-derelict.
The placing of sites on the Derelict Sites Register and the collecting of levies on those sites is a function set out tin the Derelict Sites Act 1990 for Local Authorities to undertake.
Local Authorities are required to submit an annual return to my Department providing information on the operation of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in their functional areas and this is undertaken in Quarter 2 of following year. Statistics for 2025 are not currently available.
In 2024, the most recent year on record, Fingal County Council had 15 sites on the register and did not issue a demand for or receive any levies. Derelict Site returns for 2024 received by local authorities are available here: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-governmient-and-heritage/publications/annual-returns-for-2024-received-from-local-authorities-under-the-derelict-sites-act-1990/
Working to end dereliction and vacancy is a key priority in the Government's new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities with a number of specific actions aimed to further support existing and ongoing measures to reduce dereliction. The Plan will ensure that the activities and resources used to address vacancy and dereliction are co-ordinated, and that legislative powers are used proactively to work to bring dereliction and vacancy to an end.
Derelict Sites
Ceisteanna (113, 119)
Robert O'Donoghue
Ceist:113. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether he has assessed the potential financial impact on Fingal County Council arising from the transfer of derelict sites levy collection over to the Revenue Commissioners; the estimated amount of derelict sites levy revenue that Fingal County Council would forego under the new arrangements; the alternative funding mechanisms which are proposed to compensate local authorities for this loss of revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46070/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraRobert O'Donoghue
Ceist:119. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage whether he has assessed the potential financial impact on Fingal County Council arising from the transfer of derelict sites levy collection over to the Revenue Commissioners; the estimated amount of derelict sites levy revenue that Fingal County Council would forego under the new arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46490/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 113 and 119 together.
Working to end dereliction and vacancy is a key priority in the Government's new housing plan, Delivering Homes, Building Communities with a number of specific actions aimed to further support existing and ongoing measures to reduce dereliction. The Plan will ensure that the activities and resources used to address vacancy and dereliction are co-ordinated, and that legislative powers are used proactively to work to bring dereliction and vacancy to an end.
Resources to ensure a focus on tackling dereliction within local authorities have been provided by the Government through the funding of dedicated Vacant Homes Officers (VHOs) and Town Regeneration Officers (TROs) who are working in the relevant dereliction and regeneration teams to ensure a planned and proactive approach is taken. There are existing national forums established for these local authority officers operated by the Housing Agency for Vacant Homes Officers and by the Town Centre First National Office for Town Regeneration Officers.
My Department is currently working on a number of measures to increase staffing levels in the local government sector. In this regard, my Department is collaborating with the Local Government Management Agency on the delivery of a programme of supports to planning authorities. These supports include the provision of staffing resources and expertise to enable planning authorities to perform their functions efficiently and effectively, including through the implementation of the Ministerial Action Plan on Planning Resources.
My Department is also engaging with the local authorities on the implementation of Delivering Homes, Building Communities, including the increased focus on measures to tackle dereliction and the support arrangements for greater coordination of local authority staff and resources for this purpose.
The Derelict Sites Act 1990 imposes a general duty on every owner and occupier of land to take all reasonable steps to ensure that land does not become, or continue to be, a derelict site as defined in the Act. The Act also imposes a duty on local authorities to take all reasonable steps, including the exercise of appropriate statutory powers, to ensure that any land within their functional area does not become, or continue to be, a derelict site.
Each local authority maintains a Derelict Sites Register under section 8 of the Act for sites which they consider are derelict under the Act. Sites entered on the Derelict Sites Register are subject to an annual Derelict Sites Levy of 7% of the market value of the property which will continue to apply until the site is rendered non-derelict.
The placing of sites on the Derelict Sites Register and the collecting of levies on those sites is a function set out in the Derelict Sites Act 1990 for Local Authorities to undertake. Local Authorities are required to submit an annual return to my Department providing information on the operation of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in their functional areas and this is undertaken in Quarter 2 of following year.
My Department continues to engage with the Department of Finance in the development of the proposed Derelict Property Tax for this year’s Finance Bill, further to the announcement of the proposed measure in Budget 2026 and the inclusion of an action related to the introduction of a Derelict Property Tax in Delivering Homes, Building Communities. This includes consideration of the role of local authorities in the process, noting that it is intended that the new tax will be managed and enforced by the Revenue Commissioners.
The Revenue Commissioners will be responsible for collecting the proposed Derelict Property Tax. Collection of outstanding Derelict Site Levies issued prior to the commencement of any tax will remain the relevant local authority’s responsibility, with any debts collected from levies continuing to be accrued to the local authority.
Reply not received from Department.
Invasive Species Policy
Ceisteanna (114)
Mairéad Farrell
Ceist:114. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the forthcoming National Invasive Species Management Strategy for Ireland will give due consideration to the spread of invasive African curly waterweed (lagarosiphon major) and invasive Canadian pondweed (Elodea sp.) in Lough Corrib SAC, County Galway, as referenced in the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (S.I. No. 477 of 2011); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46193/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department's National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is responsible for the implementation of the legislative framework around invasive alien species in Ireland, including the 2024 European Union (Invasive Alien Species) Regulations (SI 374/2024) which give effect in the national context to the EU IAS Regulation (1143/2014).
With the new Invasive Alien Species Bureau in place, work will now begin on a National Invasive Species Management Strategy for Ireland to manage and ultimately control outbreaks of invasive plants and animals that negatively impact our native habitats and species and to prevent new invasive alien species from becoming established.
However, management and control of invasive alien species is a matter not exclusively for my Department. Other agencies, such as Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), have an important role to play. As part of the development of the National Management Strategy, there will be extensive consultation with and input from other agencies with a role in the management of invasive alien species, including IFI.
IFI has the statutory responsibility for the protection, development, and management of Ireland’s inland fisheries and sea angling resources and undertakes a range of work tackling invasive alien species on our inland waters, including in Lough Corrib.
Homeless Accommodation
Ceisteanna (115)
Réada Cronin
Ceist:115. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures he is taking to address the increasing number of people presenting to Kildare County Council as homeless following the introduction of the Residential Tenancies Act 2026 [46371/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Supporting individuals and families experiencing or at risk of experiencing homelessness is a priority for my Department and Government.
The Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026 which came into effect on 1 March 2026, provides the strongest tenancy protections in the history of the State. The new Act introduced a new national rent control for all tenancies, which limits rent increases to inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) up to a maximum of 2%. For new build apartments and student-specific accommodation, however, rent increases are capped at the level of inflation (CPI) only. These changes were introduced to promote greater investment in the rental market and to increase the supply of rental properties. The Act also provides significant improvements in security of tenure for renters. The latest data published by the Residential Tenancies Board on 14 May 2026 shows that the number of registered landlords and tenancies have increased, both on a quarterly and yearly basis.
Increased supply is key to addressing homelessness, meeting need, and addressing the challenges in the housing market. A record level of investment is being provided for the delivery of housing in 2026, with €5.2bn in Exchequer capital funding complemented by investment through the Land Development Agency (LDA) and lending from the Housing Finance Agency (HFA), bringing the total capital funding for housing in 2026 to over €9 billion.
The new Housing Plan aims to deliver 300,000 new homes in the period to 2030, including 72,000 social homes and 90,000 starter home supports. The Government is targeting a delivery of more than 300,000 new homes over the next six years, an average of c. 50,000 per annum, with annual targets increasing incrementally to exceed 60,000 by end 2030/31. This means 12,000 new social homes will be delivered on average each year to the end of 2030.
Our Plan recognises that homelessness is the single most pressing social issue that we face and introduces a number of key measures to address homelessness. Ensuring the implementation of these measures will be a priority for me in 2026.
Meeting the Government commitment to eradicate homelessness requires a whole-of Government response. The National Homeless Action Committee (NHAC), which I chair, supports the coordination of the response by Government, local authorities, and their service delivery partners. The most recent meeting of NHAC took place on Wednesday 10 June 2026. I will continue to work with the Committee to ensure that a renewed emphasis is brought to collaborating across Government to implement actions in the new Housing Plan.
Prevention of homelessness in the first instance is an absolute priority. There are many prevention initiatives already underway in my own Department and across Government. This includes the provision of social and affordable housing, HAP and homeless HAP, and our strong tenancy protection legislation.
In order to ensure a fully aligned all-of-Government approach under the Plan, the Programme for Government includes a commitment to a holistic, cross departmental approach to homelessness prevention. Work has commenced on developing a national Homelessness Prevention Framework to ensure all possible measures are being taken across Government to prevent homelessness. It is intended that this Framework will be in place later on in the year.
Addressing family homelessness is another key priority for my Department and Government. Under the new housing plan, we are developing a dedicated Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan. This will bring together key stakeholders to drive the continued focus on preventing children and families entering emergency accommodation, providing enhanced supports for children experiencing homelessness, as well as measures to accelerate exits and reduce the time spent by children and their families in homeless emergency accommodation. Consultations with key stakeholders took place in Q1 2026 and the plan is being finalised at this time. It is anticipated that the Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan will be published by end of Q2 2026.
Continued investment in the social housing programme is central to providing a supply of homes suitable to allocate to households on the social housing list, including homeless families. €2.9bn of the capital funding for housing in 2026 has been allocated to support the delivery of social homes. In the short-term I am also ensuring that our second-hand acquisition programme is targeted at increasing more exits from homeless emergency accommodation. In February, I announced that we are making €373 million available to be drawn down by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies under the 2026 Second-Hand Social Housing Acquisitions Programme. This includes ring-fenced funding of €150m for acquisitions to support households, particularly households with children and Housing First clients, to exit homelessness.
Local Government Reform
Ceisteanna (116)
Cathal Crowe
Ceist:116. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the recommendations of final report of the Local Democracy Taskforce will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46387/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Local Democracy Taskforce, a key commitment in the Programme for Government, was established in July 2025 with the purpose of bringing forward a suite of reforms across the Local Government Sector. The Taskforce was to build on the considerable body of work previously undertaken by the Association of Irish Local Government (AILG), CLARE (Congress of Local and Regional Authorities) and Seanad Éireann.
The Local Democracy Taskforce presented its final report to me on 4 March 2026. A key consideration by the Taskforce when considering its Terms of Reference was that the recommendations made would be made in a manner that would allow for the successful implementation of the recommendations.
An implementation plan is currently being drafted with a view to bringing the report and implementation to plan to Government for consideration shortly. Following this, the report and implementation plan will be published and the process of implementing the reform policy ultimately agreed by Government will commence.