Written Answers Nos. 320-340
321. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to provide a list of the number of criminal legal aid certificates that have being issued, by county, since 1 July 2026, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54192/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can inform the Deputy that the table below contains information on criminal legal aid certificates granted by the District Court from 1-10 July 2026. District Court districts do not always align to county boundaries so it is not possible to provide a breakdown by county. Instead, the table is broken down by District Court Offices.
I would note that the below only shows the legal aid certificates granted that have been verified on the case management system used in the District Court. It can take some time to result and verify the results of each case when the list concludes, and legal aid certificates will only show on the list once the case has been resulted and verified.
Further, the below table only shows legal aid certificates issued under the new regulations that came into force on July 1. Other legal aid certificates may have been granted for cases covered by the previous regulations where the first court date was before 1 July but legal aid was granted on or after that date.
|
District Court Office |
Certs Issued |
|
Athlone District Court Office |
3 |
|
Carlow District Court Office |
1 |
|
Castlebar District Court Office |
1 |
|
Cavan District Court Office |
2 |
|
Cloverhill Courthouse Office, Dublin Metropolitan District |
2 |
|
CCJ, Dublin Metropolitan District |
5 |
|
Dun Laoghaire District Court Office, Dublin Metropolitan District |
3 |
|
Ennis District Court Office |
1 |
|
Galway District Court Office |
1 |
|
Limerick District Court Office |
41 |
|
Children’s Court, Dublin Metropolitan District |
1 |
|
Monaghan District Court Office |
1 |
|
Mullingar District Court Office |
1 |
|
Naas District Court Office |
2 |
|
Sligo District Court Office |
1 |
|
Tralee District Court Office |
5 |
|
Trim District Court Office |
2 |
|
Tullamore District Court Office |
1 |
|
Waterford District Court Office |
7 |
|
Total |
81 |
322. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the average processing time for Garda vetting in Cork currently. [54193/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of An Garda Síochána under Section 33 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. This includes all operational matters, such as Garda vetting applications which are an operational matter for the Garda National Vetting Bureau (GNVB) under the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012 (as amended).
The primary purpose of vetting carried out by the Garda National Vetting Bureau (GNVB) is to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults. This requires a robust Garda vetting process that reassures the public, and in particular parents, that appropriate checks are conducted on people taking on positions of trust.
I am informed by An Garda Síochána that it is not possible to provide statistical information in respect of the number of vetting applications waiting to be processed by county.
The Garda authorities have further advised that the current average turnaround time for vetting applications is approximately 18 business days from the date the application is received at the GNVB, for 85% of applications received.
Garda vetting applications are processed on a first-come, first serve basis in chronological order from date of receipt.
323. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration to urgently address a matter raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54223/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to echo, and confirm my support for, the apology made by the Taoiseach earlier this year on behalf of the Government. I share my colleagues’ deep sense of regret for the pain and suffering experienced by those who experienced detention in Industrial Schools.
I would also like to reiterate that the State did not and does not regard individuals as having committed a criminal offence, and no criminal record is recorded against them, by virtue of their detention in any Industrial School. No person and, in particular, no agency of the State should regard these individuals as having committed a criminal offence or having a criminal record.
The issue raised by the Deputy has been brought to the attention of the appropriate officials within my Department and we will contact the Department of Education and Youth to progress this further.
Details on how an Individual may request a certificate confirming that relevant persons do not have a criminal record can be found at:
www.gov.ie/en/department-of-the-taoiseach/publications/qa-on-apology-to-and-supports-for-survivors-of-institutional-abuse/
324. Deputy George Lawlor asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of speeding fines that have been issued at a location (details supplied) up to and including 30 June 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54231/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have requested the information sought from the Garda authorities, regrettably this was not available in time. I will write to the Deputy again once the information is to hand.
325. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of women who have died in violent circumstances in the State since January 2022, by year; the number of these cases that have resulted in a criminal conviction to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54255/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Central Statistics Office (CSO), as the national statistics agency, is responsible for the publication of the official Recorded Crime Statistics and publish reports on Recorded Crime Victims and Suspected Offenders. The reports produced to date are publicly available on the CSO website at the following link - []www.cso.ie/en/statistics/crimeandjustice/recordedcrimevictimsandsuspectedoffenders/
I am also informed by the Garda authorities that they provide figures on Domestic Abuse Incidents and I refer you to the thematic report, on www.garda.ie/en/about-us/our-departments/office-of-corporate-communications/news-media/an-garda-siochana-domestic-sexual-and-gender-based-violence-report-sept-22.pdf, published in 2022. The report focused on incidents reported between 2019 and 2021, longer term trends back to 2013 were also included. I am further informed that a data update to the report is planned for publication in 2026.
The Deputy may also be aware that, Women's Aid, a valued and trusted partner of my Department, maintains a Femicide Watch documenting cases of women killed in Ireland by their partners or ex-partners. This information is publicly available and can be accessed here: []www.womensaid.ie/get-informed/campaigns-and-partnerships/femicide-watch/
Management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service, which is independent in exercising its functions. This includes the provision of information on the courts system.
326. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine to provide an update on ongoing work to secure a national quota for bluefin tuna; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53798/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Bluefin Tuna quota available to the EU is allocated each year to Member States based on relative stability, as established in the late 1990s. At that time, Ireland did not have a track record of commercial fishing for Bluefin Tuna and, accordingly, did not receive a quota allocation.
A small Bluefin Tuna by-catch quota is available to Ireland, primarily for use in our important Northern Albacore Tuna fishery and Celtic Sea Herring fishery, where there can be Bluefin Tuna by-catch.
In 2018, Ireland was successful in securing, for the first time, an agreement that allowed Ireland to set up a catch-tag-release fishery to contribute to the collection of scientific data for the Bluefin Tuna stock. A catch-tag-release science-based fishery for authorised recreational angling vessels has been in place since 2019 and supports the collection of valuable data on the migratory patterns of Bluefin Tuna in Irish waters. This fishery is most beneficial to Ireland as it increases our knowledge of the behaviour and abundance of Bluefin Tuna in northwestern waters, while also providing a small but valuable tourism benefit to peripheral coastal communities.
Ireland has made clear to EU Member States and the European Commission that it considers that there is a case for an allocation of Bluefin Tuna quota to be made available to Ireland for a targeted fishery. The case is supported by the data collected in the catch-tag-release science-based fishery for authorised recreational angling vessels.
Ireland has requested the opening of discussions at EU level to progress our case. However, opening up this issue is difficult as other Member States are resistant to any discussion on amending relative stability for this stock. Any change to the existing system of quota allocations would require a majority of Member States to agree under the qualified majority voting system. Any change to the current relative stability would involve a loss for some other Member States and, therefore, poses particular challenges in a qualified majority voting context.
Notwithstanding these challenges, I believe that there is a strong case for Ireland given the abundance of Bluefin Tuna in our waters, and I will continue to pursue it at every opportunity.
327. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the range of topics covered and the outcome of his discussions in Cork with the Members of the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53876/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s EU Presidency term began on July 1. It is the culmination of a long process of planning and preparation that has been a major focus across Government.
The traditional Presidency visit by the College of Commissioners took place in Cork on 2-3 July 2026, and represented the first collective engagement between the Government of Ireland and the European Commission during Ireland’s Presidency term. The visit provided an important opportunity to strengthen political relationships, to establish a shared understanding of Ireland’s Presidency priorities, and to discuss how we will work with the Commission though our term to ensure that we can deliver effectively on our policy objectives to the benefit of citizens in Ireland and across Europe.
During the visit, I participated in a comprehensive discussion on agriculture, fisheries, climate, energy and economic transition, alongside Ministers and Commissioners with relevant portfolios.
I outlined Ireland’s priorities for the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, including advancing discussions on the future Common Agricultural Policy, concluding the annual fishing opportunities negotiations, and progressing work on simplification, food security, generational renewal, sustainable livestock and the bioeconomy.
I emphasised the central role of agriculture and fisheries in supporting Europe’s food security and competitiveness, sustaining rural and coastal communities, and contributing to the Union’s climate and environmental objectives. I also underlined the importance of ensuring that the future CAP remains common, stable and fair, supports farm incomes and rural resilience, and is simpler and more workable for farmers.
On fisheries, I highlighted the importance of securing sustainable fishing opportunities, providing certainty and stability for the seafood sector, and ensuring that the economic and social contribution of fisheries and aquaculture is appropriately reflected in future EU policy.
328. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of an outstanding payment for a person (details supplied) under the water EIP scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53879/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that the person named is an approved participant in the Farming for Water (FFW) European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project and will receive payment for measures undertaken under this EIP following detailed checks which are completed for each farmer payment.
The FFW EIP is delivered by an Operational Group led by LAWPRO (the Local Authorities Water Programme), which includes Teagasc, Dairy Industry Ireland and other stakeholders, including Bórd Bia.
Approvals for applications, verification of measures taken, processing and approval of individual farmer payments for the FFW EIP are made by LAWPRO's administration staff and catchment scientists. Payment checks are conducted by my Department.
329. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the status of an outstanding payment under the water EIP scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53880/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that the person named is an approved participant in the Farming for Water (FFW) European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project and will receive payment for measures undertaken under this EIP following detailed checks which are completed for each farmer payment.
The FFW EIP is delivered by an Operational Group led by LAWPRO (the Local Authorities Water Programme), which includes Teagasc, Dairy Industry Ireland and other stakeholders, including Bórd Bia.
Approvals for applications, verification of measures taken, processing and approval of individual farmer payments for the FFW EIP are made by LAWPRO's administration staff and catchment scientists. Payment checks are conducted by my Department.
330. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of applications received under the fuel income support scheme, by county; the number approved, refused and awaiting determination in each county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54004/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra331. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number and total value of payments issued under the fuel income support scheme to date, by county , in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54005/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra332. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total number of applicants deemed eligible for payment under the fuel income support scheme who have yet to receive payment; the reason for any delays; the expected timeframe for issuing outstanding payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54006/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra333. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the total amount allocated to the fuel income support scheme; the amount committed to date; the amount paid to date; the amount expected to be paid over the lifetime of the scheme; the estimated underspend, if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54007/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra334. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if consideration is being given to extending the fuel income support scheme beyond July 2026; whether a review of the continued need for the scheme has been undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54008/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra335. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he intends to extend the fuel income support scheme beyond July 2026 in the event considering that fuel prices remain elevated and could possibly increase further; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54009/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra336. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if consideration is being given to expanding the eligibility criteria for the fuel income support scheme; the categories of persons or businesses being considered; whether representations seeking changes have been received; whether he has had engagements or meetings if this regard; if so, the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54010/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra337. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the average payment made under the fuel income support scheme to farmers, agricultural contractors and commercial fishers; the highest and lowest payments made in each category, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54011/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 330 to 337, inclusive, together.
My Department has introduced the Fuel Income Support Scheme as a targeted income support to assist farmers and agricultural/forestry contractors facing unprecedented increases in fuel costs.
Separate schemes have been put in place to support fishers and specialist horticultural growers.
As of the closing date of June 2nd, 32,417 farmer applications have been received while more than 3,000 paper-based applications were received from farm contractors. Analysis of the correspondence received from contractors is still on-going, so it is not yet possible to give a county breakdown.
The county breakdown for the online/farmer applications is set out below:
|
County |
Farmer Applications |
|
Carlow |
595 |
|
Cavan |
1,189 |
|
Clare |
1,570 |
|
Cork |
4,573 |
|
Donegal |
1,125 |
|
Dublin |
200 |
|
Galway |
2,450 |
|
Kerry |
1,712 |
|
Kildare |
670 |
|
Kilkenny |
1,310 |
|
Laois |
1,105 |
|
Leitrim |
611 |
|
Limerick |
1,540 |
|
Longford |
605 |
|
Louth |
366 |
|
Mayo |
1,574 |
|
Meath |
1,039 |
|
Monaghan |
1,014 |
|
Offaly |
987 |
|
Roscommon |
1,153 |
|
Sligo |
756 |
|
Tipperary |
2,299 |
|
Waterford |
860 |
|
Westmeath |
816 |
|
Wexford |
1,623 |
|
Wicklow |
675 |
|
Total |
32,417 |
As the scheme closing date has passed no further applications can be made at this point and there are no current plans to reopen the scheme or to widen the eligibility criteria.
While my Department is currently carrying out final processing of applications, it is anticipated that payments will commence issuing shortly.
No payments have issued as of yet for The Fishing and Aquaculture Registered Vessel Fuel Support Scheme and the Aquaculture Business Vessel Fuel Support Scheme.
It is therefore not yet possible to give a breakdown of payments by county or to give information on the number of eligible applications at this point.
338. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the funding provided to Cork City Council for the control of horses in each of the first six months in each of the past five years, in tabular form. [54164/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is responsible for all policy and legislation in relation to the Control of Horses Act 1996. Operation of the Act comes under the remit of Local Authorities.
The welfare of equines is protected by legislation and there is a commitment in the Programme for Government to build on existing inspectorate supports across the country, ensuring a consistent approach to dealing with horse welfare. It must be emphasised that primary responsibility for the health and welfare of equines lies with the owner or keeper.
My Department provides funding to local authorities on submission of claims by local authorities as a contribution towards the costs incurred by them in operation of the Control of Horses Act, 1996.
Local authorities should make every effort to recover all costs associated with horse seizures wherever possible and ensure they are receiving value for money through the procurement process.
The funding provided by my Department on submission of claims by Cork City Council for the control of horses in each of the first six months for the past five years is below in tabular form:
|
Year |
January |
February |
March |
April |
May |
June |
|
2022 |
€0 |
€0 |
€950 |
€0 |
€0 |
€600 |
|
2023 |
€0 |
€2,100 |
€0 |
€0 |
€1,375 |
€0 |
|
2024 |
€0 |
€600 |
€0 |
€0 |
€0 |
€1,125 |
|
2025 |
€0 |
€725 |
€0 |
€0 |
€4,775 |
€0 |
|
2026 |
€0 |
€600 |
€0 |
€0 |
€1,025 |
€0 |
339. Deputy Brian Brennan asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality if assistance can be offered to a preschool (details supplied); the reason funding was ceased; if AIM level 7 funding will be reinstated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53933/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) is a model of supports designed to ensure that children with additional needs can access the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme. The goal of AIM is to empower Early Learning and Care (ELC) providers to deliver an inclusive preschool experience, ensuring that every eligible child can meaningfully participate in the ECCE Programme and reap the benefits of high-quality early learning and care through universal and targeted supports.
Pobal, who administer the AIM programme on the Department’s behalf, have informed the Department about this case. The issue has been resolved to the satisfaction of the service provider. Pobal will notify the service about this decision in the coming days.
340. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to outline the number of people awaiting an initial appointment in each of the CDNTs in Cork, by waiting time in six monthly intervals, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54135/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs this question refers to the service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive (HSE) to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
