This publication contains the written answers to questions tabled by Members. The content of the responses is as received at the time from the relevant Minister or representative of the Assembly Commission and has not been subject to the official reporting process or changed in any way.

NORTHERN IRELAND ASSEMBLY

Friday 20 June 2008

Written Answers to Questions

Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister
Agriculture and Rural Development
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Education
Employment and Learning
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Environment
Finance and Personnel
Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Regional Development
Social Development
Assembly Commission

Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister

Funding for Community and Voluntary Groups

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many community and voluntary groups it is currently funding; the amount of funding given to each project; and where these projects are based.

(AQW 7312/08)

The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness):

Information on the number of community and voluntary groups to which OFMDFM currently provides funding, the amount of funding given to each project and where these projects are based is provided in the table below.

Additional information on the period in financial years over which the funding is provided and on the impact of the reach of some of the projects has also been provided in the table.

NAME OF PROJECT	AMOUNT OF FUNDING	PERIOD FUNDING COVERS	WHERE BASED	IMPACT
174 Trust	£44,000	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Ballynafeigh Community Development Association	£33,745	2008-2009	Belfast	South Belfast
Belfast Interface Project	£65,403	2008-2009	Belfast	Belfast-wide
Centre for Contemporary Christianity in Ireland	£42,268	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Community Relations Forum	£32,525	2008-2009	Newtownabbey	Local
Corrymeela Community	£132,088	2008-2009	Belfast / Coleraine	Multiple
Downtown Women’s Group / Women into Politics	£20,077	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
The Fermanagh Trust	£29,588	2008-2009	Enniskillen	Local
Groundwork NI	£27,755	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Institute for Conflict Research	£31,701	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Interaction Belfast	£56,534	2008-2009	Belfast	West Belfast
Intercomm	£24,218	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
The Junction / Holywell Trust	£86,773	2008-2009	Derry	Multiple
Kilcranny HousE	£27,474	2008-2009	Coleraine	Local
LINC Resource Centre	£78,769	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Mediation Northern Ireland	£123,106	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
The Nerve Centre	£17,118	2008-2009	Derry	Multiple
North Belfast Interface Network / Ashton Community Trust	£80,098	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
PAKT (Lurgan)	£27,901	2008-2009	Lurgan	Local
Partisan Productions	£24,000	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Peace & Reconciliation Group	£87,729	2008-2009	Derry	Multiple
REACT	£37,582	2008-2009	Armagh	Local
Rural Community Network	£41,417	2008-2009	Cookstown	Multiple
Suffolk / Lenadoon Interface Group (SLIG)	£12,725	2008-2009	Belfast	Local
TIDES (Training)	£42,400	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Tinderbox Theatre Company	£18,073	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Trademark	£60,000	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Ulster People’s College	£27,454	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
Workers’ Education Association	£46,783	2008-2009	Belfast	Multiple
North Belfast Advice Partnership	£124,261	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Rathcoole Community Empowerment Partnership	£103,769.92	2008-2009	Newtownabbey	North Belfast
Upper Ardoyne Community Empowerment Partnership	£65,852.	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Upper North Belfast Community Empowerment Partnership	£112,476.56	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
North Belfast Developing Leadership Community Empowerment Partnership	£157,806.60	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Greater New Lodge Community Empowerment Partnership	£108,129.57	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Greater Greencastle Community Empowerment Partnership	£81,504.12	2008-2009	Newtownabbey	North Belfast
Greater Ballysillan Community Empowerment Partnership	£67,803.48	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Citizen Youth Community Empowerment Partnership	£66,772.64	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Ardoyne Marrowbone Community Empowerment Partnership	£109,379.31	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Cliftonville Community Empowerment Partnership	£113,918.01	2008-2009	Belfast	North Belfast
Lesbian, Gay and Bi-Sexual Sector (LGB Sector), administered by the umbrella body Coalition on Sexual Orientation	£230,000	2007-2009	Belfast.	Multiple
AN MUNIA TOBER	£45,000	2008-2009	WEST BELFAST	Belfast-wide service
AN MUNIA TOBER – REGIONAL	£45,000	2008-2009	WEST BELFAST	Multiple
BALLYMENA INTER-ETHNIC FORUM	£45,000	2008-2009	BALLYMENA	LOCAL
BELFAST ISLAMIC CENTRE	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
CHINESE WELFARE ASSOCIATION	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
CRAIGAVON INTERCULTURAL PROGRAMME	£45,000	2008-2009	CRAIGAVON	Local
EAST BELFAST INDEPENDENT ADVICE CENTRE	£38,000	2008-2009	EAST BELFAST	Local
KILCRANNY HOUSE	£45,000	2008-2009	COLERAINE	Multiple
MULTI-CULTURAL RESOURCE CENTRE	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
NICEM	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
NICRAS	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
OLD WARREN PARTNERSHIP	£31,000	2008-2009	LISBURN	Local
POLISH ASSOCIATION NI	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
SEEDS	£45,000	2008-2009	NORTH WEST	Local
SOUTH BELFAST PARTNERSHIP BOARD	£45,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Local
STEP	£45,000	2008-2009	DUNGANNON	South Tyrone, Dungannon and beyond
WAH HEP	£45,000	2008-2009	CRAIGAVON	Local
YOUTHACTION NI	£45,000	2008-2009	NEWRY	Local
ARTSEKTA	£15,000	2008-2009	GREATER BELFAST	Multiple
AN MUNIA TOBER	£15,000	2008-2009	WEST BELFAST	Multiple
BELFAST ISLAMIC CENTRE	£15,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
FEILE AN PHOBAIL	£15,000	2008-2009	WEST BELFAST	Local
MULTI CULTURAL RESOURCE CENTRE	£15,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
MORNINGTON COMMUNITY PROJECT	£15,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Local
ST PATRICK’S CONFERENCE ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY	£15,000	2008-2009	ARMAGH	Local
VOLUNTARY SERVICE BUREAU	£15,000	2008-2009	SOUTH BELFAST	Multiple
Aisling Centre	£163,439.94	2003-2009	Fermanagh
Ashton Centre	£190,111.44	2003-2009	Belfast
Ballymurphy Women’s Centre	£139,900.98	2003-2009	Ballymurphy
C.A.L.M.S	£279,468.34	2003-2009	Londonderry
Contact Youth	£179,225.86	2003-2009	Belfast
Corpus Christi Services	£281,181.47	2003-2009	Belfast
Cunamh	£346,515.85	2003-2009	Londonderry
Derry Well Woman	£170,821.09	2003-2009	Londonderry
F.A.I.R	£337, 837.55	2003-2009	Markethill
F.O.D.D.D	£189,011.64	2003-2009	Belfast
Firinne	£263,018.06	2003-2009	Lisnaskea
H.A.V.E.N	£160,842.27	2003-2009	Belfast
ICPD	£164,970.24	2003-2009	Belfast
Koram Centre	£301,049.28	2003-2009	Strabane
Lenadoon Community Counselling Project	£165,056.11	2003-2009	Belfast
Lifeline	£38,750.00	2003-2009	Lurgan
Lifeways Psychotherapy Counselling Centre	£225,139.27	2003-2009	Londonderry
M.A.S.T	£93,680.39	2003-2009	Kilkeel
Make Your Mark	£172,402.57	2003-2009	Londonderry
New Life Counselling Service	£132,778.40	2003-2009	Belfast
Nexus Institute	£81,667.56	2003-2009	Belfast
NI Music Therapy Trust	£161,983.73	2003-2009	Belfast
NOVA Project	£564,231.11	2003-2009	Portadown
Regimental Association of UDR	£180,860.74	2003-2009	Coleraine
Relatives for Justice	£545,675.77	2003-2009	Belfast
S.A.V.E.R./N.A.V.E.R	£292,238.91	2003-2009	Markethill
S.E. Fermanagh Foundation	£281,259.73	2003-2009	Lisnaskea
Shankill Stress and Trauma Group	£394,204.21	2003-2009	Belfast
South Down Action for Healing Wounds	£261,565.69	2003-2009	Rathfriland
Springhill Community House	£196,039.93	2003-2009	Belfast
Streetbeat Youth Project	£201,110.13	2003-2009	Belfast
Survivors of Trauma	£280,165.13	2003-2009	Belfast
Tara Centre	£332,626.18	2003-2009	Omagh
The Cross Group	£29,240.00	2003-2009	Belfast
The ELY Centre	£303,926.28	2003-2009	Enniskillen
The Wider Circle	£175,411.99	2003-2009	Belfast
United Services Club Victims Survivors Group	£152,163.27	2003-2009	Londonderry
VAST	£263,901.43	2003-2009	Belfast
WAVE Trauma Centre, Armagh	£278,148.40	2003-2009	Armagh
WAVE Trauma Centre, Ballymoney	£205,479.58	2003-2009	Bellymoney
WAVE Trauma Centre, Belfast	£430,642.01	2003-2009	Belfast
WAVE Trauma Centre, Omagh	£251,659.61	2003-2009	Omagh
WAVE Trauma Centre, Londonderry	£320,820.73	2003-2009	Londonderry
West Tyrone Voice	£369,969.58	2003-2009	Newtownstewart
Omagh Self Help and Support Group	£213,607.61	2003-2009	Omagh
HURT	£261,487.99	2003-2009	Lurgan
Ex-Servicemen (Combat Stress)	£238,640.37	2003-2009	Belfast
RUC Families	£15,000	2003-2009	Belfast

Financial Cost of Division

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what conclusions have been drawn from the report of Deloitte and Touche into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide (i) on the Department's work; and (ii) in relation to potential efficiency savings.

(AQW 7441/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: As stated previously, the research was commissioned by the previous administration on 29th March 2006 and was conducted and finalised during direct rule.

The interpretation of and commentary on the datasets contained in the report represent the views of Deloitte and not us nor the Executive. The report does not form an agreed basis for future policy development.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how much it has spent on fuel for vehicles it (i) owns; and (ii) leases.

(AQW 7730/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: As the Department does not own or lease any vehicles it has not incurred any expenditure on fuel for vehicles.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many cars it (a) owns; and (b) leases, and for each car, its (i) make and model; (ii) engine size; (iii) type of fuel used; (iv) fuel efficiency; and (v) purpose.

(AQW 7731/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Department does not own or lease any cars.

Sustainable Development Targets

Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) why no measures are being taken against those Departments who failed to meet Sustainable Development targets; and (ii) have any steps been put in place to help Departments meet Sustainable Development targets.

(AQW 7735/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: OFMDFM does not have legislative powers to take measures against departments for failure to achieve legacy sustainable development targets. However, through our Sustainable Development Unit, we are engaging co-operatively with all departments in working towards the development and delivery of suitable sustainability goals.

It is intended that in developing a new Sustainable Development Strategy and associated Plans, OFMDFM will consider all options for ensuring the effective delivery of the sustainable development programme and any Sustainable Development targets that arise from it.

Changing Times Stormont Paper

Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister why the Changing Times Stormont paper has not been published, who was responsible for the delay in its publication and what is the cost of its publication to date.

(AQW 7870/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: There have been internal discussions in OFMDFM on the possibility of a publication to mark the work of the Executive to date.

Some drafts had been produced for Ministers to consider. However, we have not yet taken any decision in relation to any possible content. Therefore no copies of a publication have been printed.

Capital Realisation Taskforce

Mr Beggs asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to list all assets and their estimated value, that have been identified by the Capital Realisation Taskforce for sale, to enable reinvestment in alternative public infrastructure.

(AQW 7904/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: We regret that we are unable to provide the information that you have requested. Publication of this information would, or would be likely to, prejudice the commercial interest of the public sector as owner of the assets identified in the report Capital Realisations Taskforce in any future sale processes that may take place.

Capital Realisation Taskforce Report

Mr Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what progress has been made following publication of the Capital Realisation Taskforce Report.

(AQO 4141/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: As recommended in the Capital Realisation Taskforce Report, a Central Assets Realisations Team (CART) is being created. Recruitment for key posts is underway and specialist advisory services to support the work of the Team have been procured and are operational.

An interim programme director for CART has been working for a number of months to undertake critical tasks until the permanent team is in post to help ensure delivery of its targets for realisation of assets in the Budget.

Cost of Financial Division

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, further to its answer to AQW 7106/08, for the cost implications of responding to individual requests for copies of the Deloitte Touche report into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide compared to the cost of placing the document on the OFMdFM website.

(AQW 7982/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: There are very minimal administrative costs associated with the provision of electronic versions of the Deloitte Touche report. Since August 2007 only 27 requests have been received and responded to by the Community Relations Unit.

Agriculture and Rural Development

Bovine Tuberculosis

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what progress is being made on measures to deal with bovine tuberculosis, particularly on vaccination and husbandry.[R]

(AQW 7657/08)

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): Recent developments within the TB programme include the use of supplementary blood testing where appropriate and enhanced movement restriction regimes.

At present, there is no vaccine against bovine TB available to use as part of our programme. Work is currently underway in Britain and in the South on vaccination against bovine TB. The South is looking at vaccination of badgers, whereas Britain is looking at both the vaccination of cattle and badgers. My Department will continue to maintain contact with, and where appropriate seek to collaborate with, this work.

An information package titled "TB In Your Herd" is available on the internet and each herdkeeper has been sent a copy of the "Biosecurity Code". Both contain preventative husbandry advice. In addition, each breakdown herd is contacted by a Veterinary Officer who gives preventative husbandry advice specific to the farm in question.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what her most recent estimate is of the proportion of the badger population carrying bovine tuberculosis.

(AQW 7658/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The most recent information of bovine TB in the badger population

available is from the Badger Road Traffic Accident Survey. In this survey, badgers found dead at a road side may be collected for examination.

Within this survey 18% of badgers were found on post mortem examination to have bovine tuberculosis.

However it is not possible to draw, with certainty, any conclusions on the whole badger population due to the natural limitations of the survey.

My staff are currently assessing the feasibility a disease prevalence

survey in badgers that should provide a more complete picture of the whole population in future.

Bovine Tuberculosis

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what consideration she has given to the recommendations within Sir David King's report, which included a controlled badger cull in affected areas, in an attempt to eradicate tuberculosis.[R]

(AQW 7659/08)

Ms M Gildernew: On foot of the Badger Stakeholder Group’s work, my Department has a number of actions underway which are aimed at gathering information to better inform decisions relating to badgers and the control of TB in cattle in the North. One of these actions is an assessment of the available evidence in relation to the role of badgers in bovine TB. This assessment will consider Sir David King’s report, alongside the other available evidence. The aim of this work is to assess the significance of the available evidence to the situation in the North and to inform an appropriate course of action here, including whether it is appropriate to run a pilot badger management strategy (which may include the removal or vaccination of badgers). I expect that this work will be concluded shortly.

I will give full consideration to the conclusions of this work, and to what the Badger Stakeholder Group has said in its report, before coming to a decision on the way forward.

As the badger is a protected species, any decision to intervene in badger populations will also require the agreement of the Environment Minister.

Radioactivity Monitoring

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what level of radioactivity monitoring is carried out by her Department around the Irish Sea and across Northern Ireland.

(AQW 7663/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department routinely monitors radioactivity levels in milk and milk products on behalf of the Food Standards Agency. A range of monitoring of radioactivity in food and the environment is undertaken by other Departments and Agencies.

Departmental 2006 Consultation

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development when she intends to make publicly available an analysis of the responses to the Departmental 2006 consultation on animal health and welfare.

(AQW 7676/08)

Ms M Gildernew: As I said in my previous written answer to the Member on 14 March 2008, the Department consulted on proposals for new animal welfare legislation in late 2006 and, as this consultation was carried out under a different administration, I want to take time to consider the responses.

In order to ensure that any legislative proposals introduced here will provide the necessary protection for animals, I am continuing to meet animal welfare groups to discuss their views on the current legislative position.

I have asked my officials to finalise a report that will summarise the outcome of the responses to the 2006 consultation, and in doing so to reflect on the position in Britain and emerging legislative developments in the South.

Publication of the final analysis of the responses to the 2006 consultation, and the specific provisions of any new legislation, will therefore depend on my detailed consideration of the report on the 2006 consultation and on the outcome of my on-going meetings with stakeholders.

With regard to animal health, the Department consulted on a draft Diseases of Animals Bill earlier this year. The purpose of the Bill is to update existing legislation aimed at protecting and improving our animal health status through enhanced disease prevention, biosecurity and control measures. The Bill will provide flexibility to deal quickly and effectively with a disease outbreak in accordance with any relevant EU requirements. It will also enable policies to be introduced reflecting current and future developments in research and technology to trace and combat disease.

I was encouraged by the broad support for the Bill’s objectives and acceptance of the need for a more effective framework to deal with animal diseases in the future.

I hope to introduce the Bill to the Assembly for initial consideration before the summer recess. At that stage a summary of the consultation responses will be available on the Department’s website.

Animal Health and Welfare Bill

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to introduce an Animal Health and Welfare Bill.

(AQW 7677/08)

Ms M Gildernew: I have asked my officials to finalise a report that will summarise the outcome of the responses to a 2006 consultation on proposals for new animal welfare legislation, and in doing so to reflect on the position in Britain and emerging legislative developments in the South. I am also meeting a number of animal welfare groups to hear their views on what new legislation may be required.

While the specific provisions of any new legislation will depend on my detailed consideration of the report and on the outcome of my on-going meetings with stakeholders, I have asked that my officials submit animal welfare legislative proposals to me by the end of the year.

With regard to animal health, the Department consulted on a draft Diseases of Animals Bill earlier this year. The purpose of the Bill is to update existing legislation aimed at protecting and improving our animal health status through enhanced disease prevention, biosecurity and control measures. The Bill will provide flexibility to deal quickly and effectively with a disease outbreak in accordance with any relevant EU requirements. It will also enable policies to be introduced reflecting current and future developments in research and technology to trace and combat disease.

I was encouraged by the broad support for the Bill’s objectives and acceptance of the need for a more effective framework to deal with animal diseases in the future.

I hope to introduce the Bill to the Assembly for initial consideration before the summer recess.

Agri-Food Bioscience Institute in Hillsborough

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for a breakdown of the annual running costs of the Agri-Food Bioscience Institute in Hillsborough.

(AQW 7689/08)

Ms M Gildernew:

The 2007 annual running costs of AFBI Hillsborough (one of the seven AFBI sites) are as follows:

Staff costs (industrial and non-industrial) £2.4m

Other direct costs: consumables, fertilisers, etc. £0.4m

Rates, water, cleaning, security, maintenance, etc £0.7m

Lease (paid to DARD) £0.3m

Utilities: Electricity, gas, oil £0.2m

 

Total £4.0m

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by her Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

(AQW 7705/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The following table details the number of cars currently owned by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development including the make, model, engine size, fuel type and purpose of each car.

Number of Cars Owned	Make of Car	Model of Car	Engine Size	Fuel Type	Purpose of Car	Fuel Efficiency
3	Vauxhall	Combo	1686cc	Heavy Oil	Fisheries Inspectorate Fleet Vehicle – Inspection and Monitoring	25-30 miles per gallon
1	Ford	Ranger 4x4	2499 cc	Heavy Oil	Fisheries Inspectorate Fleet Vehicle – Inspection and Monitoring	25-30 miles per gallon
1	Toyota	Landcruiser	2982cc	Heavy Oil	Fisheries Inspectorate Fleet Vehicle – Inspection and Monitoring	25-30 miles per gallon
1	Toyota`	Landcruiser Amazon	4164cc	Heavy Oil	Fisheries Inspectorate Fleet Vehicle – Inspection and Monitoring	25-30 miles per gallon
1	Citreon	Synergie 1.9TD	1905cc	Heavy Oil	Fisheries Inspectorate Fleet Vehicle – Inspection and Monitoring	35-40 miles per gallon

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how much money has been spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by her Department, since devolution.

(AQW 7712/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and its Agencies has spent £675,822 on fuel for vehicles (includes cars, vans, jeeps/landrovers, minibuses, boats, and plant machinery etc) that are owned and leased by the Department since 8 May 2007. It is not possible to separate fuel expenditure for owned and leased vehicles.

Cattle in Ballymena and Larne

Mr T Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many cattle in Ballymena and Larne areas have tested positive for brucellosis as a result of the thirty day test.

(AQW 7747/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Premovement testing was introduced in the North in December 2004 to comply with the requirements of EC Animal Trade Directive 64/432/EEC.

Since then, in the Ballymena division there have been 2 reactors disclosed at premovement testing with 324 animals giving inconclusive results.

In Larne division since 2004 there have been no reactors disclosed at premovement testing and 337 animals giving inconclusive results.

Cattle in Ballymena and Larne

Mr T Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of cases of brucellosis in the (i) Ballymena area; and (ii) Larne area, in 2007.

(AQW 7748/08)

Ms M Gildernew: (i) In 2007, Ballymena division had 5 herds with serological reactors. None of the reactors were confirmed as being infected with Brucella abortus on bacteriological culture.

(ii) In 2007, Larne division had 9 herds with serological reactors. Four of the herds had animal(s) which were confirmed as being infected with Brucella abortus on bacteriological culture.

Welfare of Circus Animals

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what legislation exists to protect the welfare of circus animals while they are at their 'winter quarters'; how many inspections were carried out over the past five years, and what the findings of these inspections were.

(AQW 7760/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department’s role in circuses is currently very limited. Part III of the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972 protects all animals from unnecessary cruelty or suffering. There are, however, no specific provisions on the welfare of animals in circuses.

DARD does not have powers of entry to circuses, and therefore has no authority to inspect circus animals at their ‘winter quarters’. No routine inspections have been carried out. However, if a welfare complaint is received regarding a circus animal, the PSNI does have the legal power of entry under the 1972 Act.

The Department did consult on proposals for new animal welfare legislation in 2006, including on the need for regulation of circuses. My officials are currently working on a paper summarising the outcome of the consultation exercise and lessons learned from the introduction of animal welfare legislation in Britain. The paper will also reflect on the recently published outline legislative proposals in the South. When I have considered this paper, I will decide what new legislation is needed.

Welfare of Animals During Transportation

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether European legislation in relation to the welfare of animals during transportation (Council regulation (EC) No.1/2005) applies to animal circuses; how many inspections were carried out over the past five years; and what the findings of these inspections were.

(AQW 7761/08)

Ms M Gildernew: EU Regulation 1/2005 aims to improve animal welfare through raising transportation standards. However, the transport of circus animals is not within the scope of the Regulation as the animals can be described as travelling in their housing. Therefore the Department has not carried out any routine inspections on animal circuses over the last 5 years.

There are however, no exclusions or exemptions from the general obligation under the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972 which requires that animals must be transported in a way which does not cause, or is unlikely to cause, injury or unnecessary suffering.

Departmental Team Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 7788/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The following table provides approximate information regarding the number of staff hours relating to staff away days, cross-departmental away days and staff team building exercises in each of the last five financial years.

2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
4,921	18,389	9,515	8,552	5,428

Departmental Team Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years.

(AQW 7790/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The table below shows the total cost of staff away days and staff team building exercises carried out by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and its Agencies in each of the last five financial years.

Year Total Cost of Staff Total Cost of Staff

Away Days Team Building Exercises

2003/2004 £17,305 £5,882

2004/2005 £87,626 £14,471

2005/2006 £36,478 £2,539

2006/2007 £27,147 £13,811

2007/2008 £23,160 £3,597

Departmental Land

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the revised value of £3-6 million given to land and property owned by the Department at Crossnacreevy in light of an earlier valuation given at £200 million.

(AQW 7791/08)

Ms M Gildernew: In June 2007 an initial informal valuation based on the market value of land at that time suggested that with appropriate planning permission, the holding could provisionally yield a capital receipt in the region of £200m, depending on future planning and development considerations. The Department was clear about this in correspondence with the ARD Committee at that time.

Since then, my officials have been working on the project and have encountered some difficulties, primarily around the prospect of securing the appropriate planning permission. In the context of acceptable alternative uses that do not involve planning permission, the current likely valuation is in the range £3m-£6m. This does not affect our agreement with DFP that funding is available in 2008/09 for the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme.

No change has been made to the activities on the site at Crossnacreevy and we await a report from AFBI on the advantages and costs of relocation.

Single Farm Payments

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the £8 million overpayments made in relation to Single Farm Payments.

(AQW 7792/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The SFP budget issue has had no impact on farmers’ payments. It has not given rise to, or been caused by, overpayments to farmers.

The SFP 2007/08 expenditure requirements were under estimated by some £14m because the Estimate was made on a cash, as opposed to an accruals, basis. The same applies to SFP income. The £14m reduces to £8m within the Department’s overall CAP budget. As SFP expenditure is matched by EU income overall, there is zero impact on DARD’s SFP budget.

2007-2013 Rural Development Fund

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the series of miscalculations made in relation to the first £50 million of the 2007-2013 Rural Development Fund.

(AQW 7794/08)

Ms M Gildernew: No actual funds were issued on the basis of the miscalculations which were issued as part of the guidance pack to council clusters last month to assist them in drawing up a local strategy (as required by the EU Regulations). Once the error was detected officials were able to provide me with the correct calculations based on population and deprivation.

The figures were based on an erroneous application by officials of the methodology for calculating deprivation and were therefore incorrect. This mistake was brought to my attention by my Special Advisor and a Sinn Fein statement from Martina Anderson, Francie Brolly and Pat Doherty. I subsequently announced the correct allocations at Oral Questions in the Assembly on 9 June.

Departmental Underspend

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the £31.4 million underspend by her Department.

(AQW 7795/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Whilst there is room for improvement in the headline figure it may be helpful to explain it within the context of the two main areas of expenditure: Current and Capital.

The Current expenditure underspend is £8.2m (3.4%). Of this, £1.0m is on Administration where we have been trying to keep costs down; £1.9m is in respect of a reduction in pension liabilities; and we have earned £1.4m more income than we had budgeted for.

A further £3.7m is in Modulation Match Funding which over the past number of years has been carried forward to help fund the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme until 2013.

The capital and capital grant underspend is £23.5m (34.6%). Some £14.5m is in respect of the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme (FNMS) and to a degree this reflects the demand led nature of capital grant schemes.

Similarly, expenditure fell short on other demand led capital grants – the Integrated Development Funds (£3.7m) and rural development schemes (£1.5m). We are seeking to carry forward £4.8m into 2008/09 to continue these schemes.

We have also been slower to spend capital than we had planned with an underspend of £3.3m on a small number of projects. Again we are seeking to carry this forward to 2008/09.

However, the Department is endeavouring to improve its monitoring and control processes and I expect to report a better position at the end of this financial year.

Farm Nutrient Management Scheme

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the £14.4 million that was returned to the Department of Finance and Personnel from the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme.

(AQW 7797/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Farm Nutrient Management Scheme (FNMS) underspend reflects the fact that forecasting capital grant expenditure is less straightforward than for other types of expenditure because such schemes are, in part, driven by the activities of third parties.

The 2007/08 FNMS budget was based on an accruals estimate of the value of work that farmers would have completed at 31 March. The underspend reflects that for various reasons farmers have not been able to progress works for which they sought FNMS grant as quickly as was expected.

DARD has a budget of £50m in FNMS grant aid in 2008/09, and I encourage farmers to proceed with their works before the deadline runs out at 31 December 2008.

Pit Bull Type Dogs

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will make (i) muzzling; and (ii) the requirement for animals to be on a leash, mandatory for pit bull type dogs in public places.

(AQW 8140/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The control of dogs, including dangerous dogs, is regulated under the Dogs Order 1983, as amended by the Dangerous Dogs Order 1991. The Order designates certain types of dogs which it is an offence to be in possession of, such as the pit bull terrier.

District Councils are responsible for enforcing this legislation and may already seize any dog that appears to be a banned type. Such dogs should therefore not be in a public place, whether muzzled or on a leash.

However, I appreciate that there are conflicting views about the effectiveness of legislating for specific breeds or types of dogs, where such legislation may ban certain breeds or types, or may place specific control requirements on their owners such as muzzling. The issue of breed specific legislation is therefore central to my on-going review, and is an issue that I am continuing to discuss with experts and those with enforcement responsibilities.

Pit Bull Type Dogs

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will make seizure of suspected pit bull type dogs mandatory until their breed is established beyond doubt.

(AQW 8141/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The control of dogs, including dangerous dogs, is regulated under the Dogs Order 1983, as amended by the Dangerous Dogs Order 1991. The Order designates certain types of dogs which it is an offence to be in possession of, such as the pit bull terrier.

District Councils are responsible for enforcing this legislation and may currently seize any dog that appears to be a banned type. It is already the case that where a District Council believes a dog is a banned type, then the dog will be kept by the Council pending a court decision as to the type of dog and therefore whether an offence has been committed.

The issue of identification of dogs is something that I am looking at as part of the Review which I announced in the Assembly in November.

Dangerous Dogs Legislation

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on her review of the Dangerous Dog legislation that she announced on 20 November 2007.

(AQW 8142/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Since I made my statement to the Assembly on 20 November 2007 on my plans to undertake a review of dangerous dogs and dog fighting legislation, my officials have been carrying out a scoping exercise on existing legislation with regard to all aspects of dog control, including dangerous dogs.

As part of my review I have met a number of key stakeholders including senior officials from the PSNI and District Councils, as well as a number of animal welfare groups, including the Kennel Club, the Companion Animal Welfare Committee and the Animal Welfare Federation. Arrangements are also in hand to meet the USPCA.

The review is ongoing. Once the scoping exercise is complete, I will consider a number of options, including whether new legislation is required and what it might cover.

Enforcement of the legislation remains a crucial aspect of the review as the issue of the safety of District Council officials in undertaking their duties has been raised on a number of occasions. As a result, when I met senior PSNI representatives I put forward a proposal for the development of a Memorandum of Understanding between District Councils and the PSNI on enforcement of dangerous dogs legislation. During my subsequent meeting with District Councils, my proposal was welcomed. As a result a small Working Group of Council and PSNI officers, together with my officials, is currently drafting the MOU.

I am currently considering the comments made during my stakeholder meetings, along with the written comments made to me in correspondence from a range of interested individuals and groups. A number of complex issues have been raised which will take time to analyse. However, once I have completed my consideration of all these comments, it is my intention to make a full report to the Assembly on the outcome of my review.

Culture, Arts and Leisure

Financial Cost of Division

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what conclusions have been drawn from the report of Deloitte and Touche into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide (i) on his Department's work; and (ii) in relation to potential efficiency savings.

(AQW 7363/08)

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr G Campbell):

The report "The cost of division – A Shared Future Strategy" was a piece of research commissioned by the previous administration and represents the views of Deloitte and Touche only.

My Department has accordingly not considered it in planning its own work or in considering potential efficiency savings.

Departmental Phone Numbers

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, his Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7522/08)

Mr G Campbell: Neither the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure or its former Agency, the Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland has in the last 3 years operated any 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers.

Old Castle Gardens School in Newtownards

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will consider releasing funds to assist the costs of the demolition of the Old Castle Gardens School, Newtownards, which is the site for the new library for Newtownards, as there are currently health and safety and anti-social behaviour issues associated with it.

(AQW 7605/08)

Mr G Campbell: I would indeed consider releasing funds for clearing the site. The South Eastern Education and Library Board, which is responsible for the former Castle Gardens Primary School site, has been informed that they may put a case to the Department for additional funding to clear the site on the grounds of Health and Safety.

Angling Industry Report

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what action he is taking in light of the recent report by Price Waterhouse Coopers, which stated that the angling industry is working at only a third of its potential capacity.

(AQW 7691/08)

Mr G Campbell: 'The Social and Economic Impact to Northern Ireland, and areas within the Loughs Agency, of Recreational Fisheries, Angling and Angling Resources’, was commissioned to evaluate the social and economic impact of angling in Northern Ireland and to assist future planning and development. My Department is committed to providing angling services in Northern Ireland, through the provision of the public angling estate and the recommendations are currently being given full consideration in the context of potential benefits and available resources for implementation.

2008 Beijing Olympic Games

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many staff from his Department will be attending the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in whole or in part; and how much this will cost.

(AQW 7692/08)

Mr G Campbell: The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) is still considering staff representation at the Beijing Olympic Games and how best Northern Ireland can be represented on this important world stage. To date one member of DCAL staff will be attending in their capacity as the Nations and Regions Group (NRG) representative as part of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) structure. The programme is being organised by the Visitbritain Olympic Family Networking Programme at an estimated cost of £ 15,000.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by his Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

(AQW 7707/08)

Mr G Campbell: My Department does not own or lease any cars.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much money has been spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by his Department, since devolution.

(AQW 7710/08)

Mr G Campbell: Since the restoration of devolution my Department has spent a total of £37,755.72 on fuel. This fuel has been used in vehicles which are owned by the Department.

Departmental Travel Expenses

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much his Department has spent on travel since devolution.

(AQW 7728/08)

Mr G Campbell: Total expenditure on travel since devolution by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure has been £255,060.56.

Irish Language Broadcasting Fund

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many jobs were created by the Irish Language Broadcasting Fund from 2005 to 2007.

(AQW 7771/08)

Mr G Campbell: The total number of people employed by productions delivered by the Irish Language Broadcasting Fund, which were allocated funding from 2005 to 2007, is 1157.

Departmental Team Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 7786/08)

Mr G Campbell:

In total DCAL has organised 62 away days and team building events in the past five financial years.

The number of staff hours taken up by these events are detailed in the attached table.

• The away days covered a variety of subjects but most were related to strategic and business planning.

• The breakdown by number of staff hours per year is as follows.

Year	Number of staff hours*
2003-2004	810hrs 50mins
2004-2005	786hrs 10mins
2005-2006	1,757hrs 30mins
2006-2007	918hrs 35mins
2007-2008	791hrs 30mins
Total	5,064hrs 35mins

*1 Day = 7hrs 25mins.

• This answer is consistent with AQW7819 and AQ7922

Departmental Team Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many away days and team-building exercises have been organised by his Department for departmental staff in each of the last five years.

(AQW 7819/08)

Mr G Campbell: In total DCAL has organised 62 away days and team building events in the past five financial years.

Brandywell Sports Stadium

Mr McCartney asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, given that Derry City Football Club play in the Eircom League, what funding can his Department provide to Brandywell Properties to upgrade the Brandywell sports stadium and surrounding area.

(AQW 7884/08)

Mr G Campbell: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. SNI runs a number of programmes to which Derry City FC could be eligible to apply to help it upgrade Brandywell stadium. These include a Building Sport programme and a Stadia Safety programme. The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure is also currently considering a proposal from Brandywell Properties Trust Ltd to upgrade the Brandywell Sports stadium and surrounding area. This proposal is being considered in the context of both the capital budget for sport announced in the recent Budget and value for money and accountability requirements of public funding.

Chess in Schools

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what action his Department has taken to promote chess, particularly within schools, in the last 5 years.

(AQW 7885/08)

Mr G Campbell: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland. Chess is not currently recognised by SNI as a sporting activity, however, a chess governing body would be eligible to apply for recognition to SNI.

The promotion of chess within schools is a matter for individual schools to determine.

Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympics

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if his Department will provide funding to develop Inline/Roller Hockey, in light of representatives from Northern Ireland being selected to represent Great Britain at the Amateur Athletic Union Junior Olympics.

(AQW 7886/08)

Mr G Campbell: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. The British Roller Sports Federation (BRSF) is the governing body for roller sports in Great Britain only and its jurisdiction does not currently extend to Northern Ireland. Until such time as the BRSF is recognised in Northern Ireland, SNI is unable to provide assistance from its funding programmes.

Zebra Mussels

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what effect Zebra mussels are having on course and game fish stock in local waters.

(AQW 7896/08)

Mr G Campbell: Zebra Mussels, were introduced into the Erne system circa 1996. Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and DCAL have been conducting surveys of Lower Lough Erne at intervals of approximately three years since 1991, enabling us to detail changes in fish stocks since before the arrival of zebra mussels. This is an important record enabling prediction of what might happen if and when zebra mussels reach new sites

Zebra mussels feed by filtering the water, removing microscopic algae and small animal plankton. The first effect they have is to make water clearer, particularly in summer. The removal of some of the plankton and filtering the water has changed the balance of numbers between different species of coarse fish. This is probably a result of changes in the food supply available, particularly to young fish, and changes in the ease with which fish can find food. Small perch have become much more abundant and small roach less abundant. A ratio of two or three roach to every perch has changed to a ratio of one roach to every perch in Lower Lough Erne.

This change in numbers of perch and roach has, however, not affected the relative proportions of fish in survey catches when expressed as weight. This is due to the fact that those roach that do manage to survive the first 3 years then go on to do well, whereas there appears to be high mortality of perch following improved survival in their early years.

Other coarse fish species are not measurably affected by zebra mussels. We detect no change in pike or bream stocks in surveys. Bream and the hybrids between roach and bream are able to feed heavily on zebra mussels.

The Department has not detected any significant changes in game fish abundance (salmon, trout and pollan) as a result of zebra mussels.

From reports by anglers, however there appears to have been an increase in the ease with which the trout present may be caught by anglers. This would tally with the noted increase in water clarity- trout feed by sight. Some of the factors controlling trout numbers are outside the lake waters in the feeder rivers where trout spawn and where the juveniles grow. These fast flowing rivers are not affected by zebra mussels

Pollan remain in Lower Lough Erne at low, perhaps endangered, numbers, as they were before zebra mussels arrived. Pollan eat plankton, but inhabit the deep water of the open lake, where their food and feeding is probably less impacted by zebra mussel. They spawn inshore on hard grounds, but seem to be holding on despite zebra mussel impacts in these areas.

Salmon do not feed in fresh water and are largely unaffected by zebra mussels in lakes. As for trout, their most sensitive spawning and juvenile life stages take place in fast flowing rivers where zebra mussels do not thrive.

Zebra Mussels are present in some small lakes in addition to Lower and Upper Lough Erne. No major changes have been observed, other than increases in water clarity.

Zebra mussels have been present in Lough Neagh since 2005. They are as yet there at very low numbers and have not yet affected water clarity or fish stocks. AFBI is actively investigating their spread and the potential for them to affect Lough Neagh fish. Their initial rate of increase in Lough Neagh appears to be lower than in the Erne system but a major infestation is distinctly possible in the near future.

Departmental Team Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what is the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years.

(AQW 7922/08)

Mr G Campbell: In total DCAL has organised 62 away days and team building events in the past five financial years.

The cost incurred by the Department is detailed in the attached table.

• The away days covered a variety of subjects but most were related to strategic and business planning.

• The breakdown of the cost incurred by the department is as follows.

Year	Cost (£)
2003-2004	5,270
2004-2005	2,210
2005-2006	12,447
2006-2007	3,547
2007-2008	3,581
Total	27,055

• This answer is consistent with AQW7819 and AQW7786

Commonwealth Games Council

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what discussions his Department has had with the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council to increase the number of sports that Northern Ireland teams can compete in at the Commonwealth Games.

(AQW 8110/08)

Mr G Campbell: Responsibility for determining which sports Northern Ireland athletes compete in at the Commonwealth Games rests with the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council. I am due to meet with representatives of this body within the next few weeks, however, and will be happy to raise this matter.

Commonwealth Games Council

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will hold discussions with (i) the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council; (ii) the Irish Hockey Union; and (iii) the Ulster Branch of the Irish Hockey Union, to establish a Northern Ireland hockey team to compete in the Commonwealth Games.

(AQW 8111/08)

Mr G Campbell: Representation and affiliation arrangements within any sport are a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant governing bodies. I have, however, recently written to both the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Council and the Ulster Branch of the Irish Hockey Association to ask them to consider this matter.

Education

School Admissions Criteria

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Education to detail any current legislation that would prevent schools from giving priority, in terms of admissions, to children who live in Northern Ireland.

(AQW 3394/08)

The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane):

Níl aon dlí ann faoi láthair a chuirfeadh cosc ar scoileanna tús áite a thabhairt, ó thaobh iontrála de, do dhaoine óga atá ina gcónaí i dTuaisceart Éireann.

There is no legislation at present that would prevent schools from giving priority, in terms of admissions, to children who live in the North of Ireland.

I am however reviewing existing education legislation in this area to assess whether it conflicts with EU legislation.

New Build Programmes for Schools

Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Education to provide a timescale within which the new build programme for schools will start; and to detail the proposed completion dates.

(AQW 5839/08)

Ms C Ruane: Is próiseas leanúnach é soláthar foirgneamh nua. Sainaithníonn Tábla A thíos mórthionscadail chaipitil oibre a bhfuil a dtógáil ar siúl faoi láthair.

The provision of new buildings for schools is an ongoing process. Table A below identifies major capital works projects for which construction is currently underway.

TABLE A

SCHOOL	DETAILS OF PROJECT	ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COMPLETION DATE
Bangor Academy	New replacement school on existing site	May 2008
Mount Lourdes G.S. Enniskillen	Extension & Refurbishment	June 2008
Holy Cross College, Strabane	New replacement school on existing site	July 2008
St Patrick’s P.S. Saul	New replacement school on new site	July 2008
Moorfields P.S. Ballymena	New replacement school on existing site	Aug 2008
Burnfoot/Dungiven/Largy P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	Aug 2008
Waringstown P.S.	Extension & Refurbishment	Sep 2008
Victoria P.S. Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site	Sep 2008
Ballymacrickett P.S.	New replacement school on extended site	Nov 2008
Brookefield Special School, Moira	New replacement school on existing site	Feb 2009
Ballinderry P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	Feb 2009
St Colman’s College, Newry	Extension & Refurbishment	Feb 2009
La Salle Boys’ S.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	April 2009
Drumragh Integrated College. Omagh	New replacement school on new site	April 2009
Pond Park P.S. Lisburn	New replacement school on extended site	April 2009
Towerview P.S. Bangor	New replacement school on existing site	July 2009
St Peter’s P.S. Cloughreagh	New replacement school on existing site	Sep 2009
Abbey G.S. Newry	New replacement school on new site	Nov 2009
Assumption G.S. Ballynahinch	Extension & Refurbishment	Dec 2009
St Dominic’s H.S. Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment	Jan 2010

There are also a number of major capital projects announced for funding in previous years and which are currently at various stages of the planning process prior to the construction stage. The details of these projects are listed in Table B. These projects are being progressed with the relevant education authorities and the estimated timescales for doing so will be subject to all statutory approvals being achieved, the necessary planning and building processes being completed satisfactorily, and the availability of resources in any particular year.

TABLE B

SCHOOL	DETAILS OF PROJECT	ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COMPLETION DATE
St Joseph's P.S Madden, Armagh	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
St Catherine's College, Armagh	Extension to Irish medium unit	2008/09
Lisnagelvin P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Whitehouse PS, N'Abbey	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Carrick P.S. Warrenpoint	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
Banbridge Academy	Extension & refurbishment	2011/12
St Mary's P.S, Newcastle	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Lisbellaw P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Templepatrick PS	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
St Columba's P.S, Straw, Draperstown	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
St Patrick’s & St Brigid's P.S. B'castle	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Magherafelt HS	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Magherafelt P.S.	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
Coranny & Cornagague P.S.	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
Glendhu NS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2008/09
Ravenscroft NS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2008/09
St Clare’s Abbey PS Newry	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
Bangor Grammar	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Strathearn GS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Scoil Na Fuiseoige P.S, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
St Colman's P.S. Lambeg	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
St Columbkille's P.S. Carrickmore	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
St Oliver Plunkett P.S. Forkhill	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Parkhall College, Antrim	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Dromintee P.S.	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
St Teresa's PS, Lurgan	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
Knockbreda HS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Tannaghmore P.S, Lurgan	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
St Louis Grammar, Kilkeel	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Colaiste Feirste, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2010/11
St Patrick's College, Banbridge	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
St Columbanus College, Bangor	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
St Mary's P.S, Banbridge	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Knockevin Spec School, Downpatrick	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
St Bronagh's P.S (Conv of Mercy/St Mary's Boys P.S) Rostrevor	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
Dromore Central P.S.	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Edendork P.S	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Little Flower Girls S.S, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Glastry College, Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site	2011/12
St Joseph's Convent PS, Newry	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Lurgan College	New replacement school on existing site	2012/13
St Pat's Boys/Girls Acad, Dgnon	New replacement school on existing site	2012/13
Portadown College	New replacement school on existing site	2012/13
Artigarvan PS, Strabane	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
BallyKelly PS, Limavady	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
New Buildings PS, Derry	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Eglinton PS, Derry	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Enniskillen Model PS	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Victoria College, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2012/13
St Patrick's G.S. Armagh	Extension & refurbishment	2012/13
Ebrington PS, L'Derry	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Springhill P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Strand / Sydenham P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Glenwood P.S./Edenderry NS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Strandtown PS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
St Conor's P.S, Omagh	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
Foyle & Londonderry College	New replacement school on new site	2012/13
Methodist College, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2013/14
Omagh IPS	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Priory College, Holywood	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
The High School, Ballynahinch	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Holy Family PS, Magherafelt	New replacement school on extended site	2011/12
Belmont Special School	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Limegrove / Glasvey Special School	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
St Paul's P.S. Irvinestown	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Dean Maguirc College, Carrickmore	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Devenish College	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Mitchell House Special School	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Greenwood Assessment Centre	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Cranny Special School, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Arvalee Spec School, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Taughmonagh P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Holywood PS	New replacement school on new site	2012/13
Ashfield Girls H.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Belfast Boys Model School	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast Model School for Girls	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Grosvenor G.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Orangefield P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Ballymoney H.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Rainey Endowed School, Magherafelt	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Holy Trinity College, Cookstown	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Loreto College, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Lagan College, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2010/11
Our Lady & St Patrick’s College, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
St Cecilia’s College, Derry (PPP)	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
St Mary’s College, Derry	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
St Mary’s P.S. Portglenone	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
S Joseph’s P.S. Carryduff	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
St Patrick’s G.S. Downpatrick	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Tor Bank Special School, Dundonald	New replacement school on new site	2010/11

St Colman's Primary School in Newry

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Education to detail her plans to provide additional classroom facilities for the pupils and teachers of St Colman's Primary School, Saval, Newry.

(AQW 5936/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Fuair mo Roinn iarratas ar chóiríocht bhreise i mí Aibreáin dhá mhíle a seacht.

A request for additional teaching accommodation was received in my Department in April 2007. The assessment made at the time was that there was sufficient accommodation for the current enrolment though there was a deficiency in special needs provision. My department has approved special needs provision for the school. The projected intake for September 2008 should be able to be accommodated at the school but I have arranged for departmental officials to undertake a further assessment of the provision. I visited the school recently and was very impressed by the commitment and dedication of the teachers and pupils.

Regulation of Pupil Behaviour on School Buses

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Education to outline her policies for dealing with unruly schoolchildren travelling on regularly scheduled buses.

(AQW 6020/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Níl aon bheartas Roinne ann maidir le déileáil le hiompar daltaí ar bhusanna atá ar sceideal rialta. Is ceist do scoileanna é iompar daltaí.

There is no Departmental policy on dealing with pupil behaviour on regularly scheduled buses. Pupil behaviour is a matter for schools.

All grant-aided schools are required, by law, to have measures in place to promote good pupil behaviour as part of their discipline policy. The Department has issued guidance to schools on this; however, it is for each school to decide, taking account of its own ethos and circumstances, what behaviours and situations will be covered by its discipline policy.

When developing a policy, a school community must decide on its position in respect of pupil behaviour off site and out of school hours, for example while travelling to and from school. The school’s position should be clearly set out in the discipline policy and the entire school community, including pupils, parents and staff, should be fully aware of it and its implications.

Neighbourhood Renewal Areas

Mrs McGill asked the Minister of Education to detail, in addition to her department's mainstream responsibilities, the resources that have been allocated to (i) Neighbourhood Renewal Areas; and (ii) the Strabane Neighbourhood Renewal Area, in each of the last 2 years.

(AQW 6287/08)

Ms C Ruane: Cuireann an tábla leis seo sonraí ar fáil i dtaca leis na hacmhainní, chomh maith leis an maoiniú i gcoitinne, atá cionroinnte i Limistéir Athnuachana Chomharsanachta do raon de chláir oideachas-bhunaithe i ngach ceann den dá bhliain seo caite.

The attached table provides details of resources, in addition to mainstream funding, allocated in Neighbourhood Renewal Areas for a range of education based programmes in each of the last two years.

	2007/08		2008/09
	Neighbourhood Renewal Areas	Strabane	Neighbourhood Renewal Areas	Strabane
Early Years	£1,345k	£0	£0	£0
Extended Schools	£4,036k	£64k	mainstreamed	mainstreamed
Belfast Regeneration Office – Youth Provision	£55k	£0	£0	£0
Healthy Schools	£410k	£0	£80k	£0
IDF BELB IDF SEELB	£2,272k £948k	£0 £0	mainstreamed	mainstreamed
Nurture Units	£105k	£0	£75k	£0
Renewing Communities	£715k	£0	£230k	£0
School Improvement	£670k	£0	£0	£0
Special Education	£187k	£92k	£0	£0
Youth & Community Relations	£89k	£0	£61k	£0
Specialist Schools & Vocational Education Programme	£2,678k	£0	£632k (further resources to be allocated in year)	£0
Neighbourhood Renewal programmes (technical transfers from DSD)	£134k	£0	resources to be allocated in year	£0
Total	£13,644k	£156k	£1078k	£0

Extended Schools Scheme

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the consultations she undertook with key stakeholders before the change of criteria for funding through the Extended Schools scheme.

(AQW 6412/08)

Ms C Ruane:

The main difference to the criteria has been the move to more accurate, post-code based data for special and primary schools which draw over half their pupils from Neighbourhood Renewal Areas (NRA). It was always our intention to use that more accurate data once it became available. We have, additionally and necessarily, targeted the available resources directly at schools serving the most socially disadvantaged communities. This is in line with the aim of the Extended Schools programme.

Bhí na critéir cháilitheachta mar ábhar plé leis an Idir-Bhord de chuid Phainéal na Scoileanna Sínte agus CSCC.

The eligibility criteria were the subject of discussions with the Inter-Board Extended Schools Panel and CCMS.

Children First Policy

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Education to confirm which Department is responsible for overseeing the Children First policy.

(AQW 6413/08)

Ms C Ruane: Rianaigh an ráiteas polasaí Children First (Leanaí sa Chéad Áit) na bearta chun cúram leanaí d’ardchaighdeán agus ar chostas réasúnta le haghaidh leanaí d’aois suas le 14 i ngach pobal áitiúil i dTuaisceart Éireann a chinntiú.

The Children First policy statement outlined the measures to ensure high quality, affordable childcare for children aged up to 14 in every local community in the North of Ireland. This was a shared Policy Statement between three central departments: Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Department for Employment and Learning and the Department of Education. Since the policy was reviewed in 2005, policy responsibility for Early Years transferred to DE in 2006. Policy responsibility for Sure start, home based childcare and private daycare of children aged 0 – 12 transferred to DE in accordance with the relevant sections of the Children (NI) Order 1995. Policy responsibility for childcare 0 – 14 remains divided between a number of government Departments.

Appointment of Members of the Five Area Groups

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) how the members of the five area groups were appointed; (ii) how the positions were advertised before they were filled; and (iii) the expenses that can be directly claimed by the central group and the five local groups.

(AQW 6849/08)

Ms C Ruane: The members of the five area groups were drawn from sectors and organisations which are owners or promoters of schools – the education and library boards, the catholic managed sector, Comhairle Na Gaelscolaíochta, the Council for Integrated Education, the Governing Bodies Association and the Transferors Representatives’ Council - as well as from the further education sector which has an important interface with post primary education provision. These organisations and sectors were asked to nominate representatives to the groups. I selected the chairpersons on the basis of their contribution to our community and to education in the north of Ireland.

As these appointments are not public appointments but persons selected to carry out a time-bounded task, there was no requirement to advertise the posts.

Beidh aisíocaíocht taistil agus cothabhála ar rátaí státseirbhíse ar fáil ag baill na ngrúpaí láir agus áitiúla.

Reimbursement of travel and subsistence at civil service rates will be available to the members and chairpersons of the central and local groups.

Extended Schools Funding

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education which schools in the North Eastern Education and Library Board qualified for extended schools funding in 2006-2007 and 2007-2008.

(AQW 7092/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Details are set out in the annexes:-

Annex 1 - lists the schools in the North Eastern Education and Library Board Area that qualified for extended schools funding in 2006/07 and 2007/08.

Annex 2 - lists those schools that no longer meet eligibility criteria and exit the programme.

The Extended Schools programme will continue to be funded during the 2008/09 financial year. The amount previously available under the Children and Young People funding Package (CYPFP) has unfortunately been greatly reduced.

As is the case in any budget process there is never sufficient resources to address all of the things we would want to address and difficult choices have to be made. I had to consider very carefully the allocation of the education budget across a range of competing priorities to ensure that key priority areas were addressed and at the same time core services maintained and inescapable pressures covered. In doing so I ensured that the £16m which had been provided direct to schools under the CYPFP was mainstreamed within school delegated budgets. That funding is therefore being maintained on a recurrent basis as part of schools delegated budgets. In addition to this I have made provision for other elements of former CYPFP funding including £8m a year for the early years programmes and counselling services in schools.

As regards the extended schools programme I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.

In determining how best to allocate the reduced budget, we have had to take account of several key factors;

• Continuing to facilitate those schools that draw very significant pupil enrolments from areas of social disadvantage;
• Minimise the negative impact for schools and local communities.

Accordingly the following eligibility criteria apply for schools in the 2008/09 financial year;

Primary, Post-primary, Special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a free school meals entitlement at or above 37%;

Nursery School pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%.

I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.

Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.

I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.

DENI Ref	Extended Schools Eligible for 2008/09	Eligible Allocation		Annex 1
3010726	DUNSEVERICK PS	£ 11,480	New School
3010781	HARRYVILLE PS	£ 10,472
3010827	WHITEHOUSE PS	£ 19,075
3010842	THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PS	£ 8,288
3010860	SUNNYLANDS PS	£ 11,984
3010862	ABBOTS CROSS PS	£ 17,045
3010873	BUSHMILLS PS	£ 10,094
3010895	RATHCOOLE PS	£ 13,286
3012237	KILLOWEN PS	£ 13,202
3012264	MILLBURN PS	£ 19,936
3013315	BALLYKEEL PS	£ 17,899
3013331	BALLYCRAIGY PS	£ 9,688
3016005	SILVERSTREAM PS	£ 10,976
3016038	HOLLYBANK PS	£ 12,908
3016040	ARMOY PS	£ 7,000
3016052	HARPURS HILL PS	£ 13,538
3016058	PARKHALL PS	£ 7,928	Buffer School
3016063	DUNCLUG PS	£ 10,640
3016171	BALLEE PS	£ 8,288
3016249	EARLVIEW PS	£ 11,522
3016252	BALLYSALLY PS	£ 14,175
3030719	ST OLCAN'S PS	£ 7,168
3033317	ST JOHN'S PS	£ 12,866
3036039	ST MARY'S PS (GLENVIEW)	£ 17,584	New School
3036559	ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PS	£ 19,285	New School
3050519	CARNLOUGH CONTROLLED INTEGRATED PS	£ 6,832
3053333	BALLYCASTLE INTEGRATED SCHOOL	£ 10,850
3056231	RATHENRAW INTEGRATED PS	£ 8,960
3056248	ROUNDTOWER INTEGRATED PS	£ 13,790
3116263	BALLYSALLY NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 7,112
3210090	MAGHERA HIGH SCHOOL	£ 12,068
3210124	BALLYCASTLE HIGH SCHOOL	£ 18,277
3210200	MONKSTOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL	£ 24,038
3210233	BALLEE COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL	£ 18,109
3210279	NEWTOWNABBEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL	£ 15,015
3230203	EDMUND RICE COLLEGE	£ 21,966
3310018	ROSSTULLA SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 12,404	New School
3316512	SANDELFORD SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 11,690
3316676	CASTLETOWER SCHOOL	£ 16,380	New School
3340002	JORDANSTOWN SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 7,504

NB the buffer zone – due to the change in eligibility criteria some previously funded schools may slip below the qualifying criteria one year and then qualify the next. Therefore a "buffer" zone" has been created to allow previously funded schools falling a few percentage points below the threshold to be funded for 2 years at a reduced amount, (50%) if eligibility has not been re-established after 2 years, these schools will exit the programme.

DENI Ref	Schools - Not Eligible	Allocation		Annex 2
3010553	CARRICKFERGUS MODEL PS	£ 3,553
3010558	DUNEANE PS	£ 1,110
3010631	BALLYCLARE PS	£ 4,338
3010841	CARRICKFERGUS CENTRAL PS	£ 2,200
3010870	MOYLE PS	£ 3,464
3010880	KING'S PARK PS	£ 3,835
3012267	MAGHERAFELT CONTROLLED PS	£ 3,702
3013301	CARNMONEY PS	£ 3,286
3013322	CAMPHILL PS	£ 3,818
3013325	LEANEY PS	£ 3,204
3016015	MOSSLEY PS	£ 4,085
3016594	BUSHVALLEY PS	£ 2,496
3030713	CARLANE PS	£ 1,219
3030898	ST ANNE'S PS	£ 1,725
3030900	ST ANTHONY'S PS	£ 2,056
3033303	ST OLIVER PLUNKETT'S PS	£ 2,461
3033304	TIR-NA-NOG PS	£ 1,219
3033709	ST JOHN'S PS	£ 2,737
3036046	ST MARY'S ON THE HILL PS	£ 3,038
3036050	ST JOSEPH'S PS	£ 2,997
3036100	ST JAMES' PS	£ 3,242
3036154	ST PATRICK'S PS	£ 2,823
3036562	HOLY FAMILY PS	£ 4,451
3036563	ST NICHOLAS' PS	£ 1,803
3066561	CORRAN INTEGRATED PS	£ 2,875
3110037	BALLYMENA NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,205
3116162	MOSSLEY NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,270
3116165	DUNCLUG NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,275
3116177	MAGHERAFELT NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,760
3116215	KYLEMORE NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,438
3116220	BALLYCLARE NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,765
3136183	ST JOSEPH'S NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,461
3136332	ST ANTHONY'S NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,461
3316510	HILL CROFT SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 1,590
3316514	RODDENS VALE SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 1,783
3316570	KILRONAN SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 1,430

Extended Schools Funding

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education which schools in the North Eastern Education and Library Board area will no longer qualify for extended schools funding in 2008-2009.

(AQW 7093/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Details are set out in the annexes:-

Annex 1 - lists the schools in the North Eastern Education and Library Board Area that qualified for extended schools funding in 2006/07 and 2007/08.

Annex 2 - lists those schools that no longer meet eligibility criteria and exit the programme.

The Extended Schools programme will continue to be funded during the 2008/09 financial year. The amount previously available under the Children and Young People funding Package (CYPFP) has unfortunately been greatly reduced.

As is the case in any budget process there is never sufficient resources to address all of the things we would want to address and difficult choices have to be made. I had to consider very carefully the allocation of the education budget across a range of competing priorities to ensure that key priority areas were addressed and at the same time core services maintained and inescapable pressures covered. In doing so I ensured that the £16m which had been provided direct to schools under the CYPFP was mainstreamed within school delegated budgets. That funding is therefore being maintained on a recurrent basis as part of schools delegated budgets. In addition to this I have made provision for other elements of former CYPFP funding including £8m a year for the early years programmes and counselling services in schools.

As regards the extended schools programme I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.

In determining how best to allocate the reduced budget, we have had to take account of several key factors;

• Continuing to facilitate those schools that draw very significant pupil enrolments from areas of social disadvantage;
• Minimise the negative impact for schools and local communities.

Accordingly the following eligibility criteria apply for schools in the 2008/09 financial year;

Primary, Post-primary, Special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a free school meals entitlement at or above 37%;

Nursery School pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%.

I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.

Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.

I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.

DENI Ref	Extended Schools Eligible for 2008/09	Eligible Allocation		Annex 1
3010726	DUNSEVERICK PS	£ 11,480	New School
3010781	HARRYVILLE PS	£ 10,472
3010827	WHITEHOUSE PS	£ 19,075
3010842	THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PS	£ 8,288
3010860	SUNNYLANDS PS	£ 11,984
3010862	ABBOTS CROSS PS	£ 17,045
3010873	BUSHMILLS PS	£ 10,094
3010895	RATHCOOLE PS	£ 13,286
3012237	KILLOWEN PS	£ 13,202
3012264	MILLBURN PS	£ 19,936
3013315	BALLYKEEL PS	£ 17,899
3013331	BALLYCRAIGY PS	£ 9,688
3016005	SILVERSTREAM PS	£ 10,976
3016038	HOLLYBANK PS	£ 12,908
3016040	ARMOY PS	£ 7,000
3016052	HARPURS HILL PS	£ 13,538
3016058	PARKHALL PS	£ 7,928	Buffer School
3016063	DUNCLUG PS	£ 10,640
3016171	BALLEE PS	£ 8,288
3016249	EARLVIEW PS	£ 11,522
3016252	BALLYSALLY PS	£ 14,175
3030719	ST OLCAN'S PS	£ 7,168
3033317	ST JOHN'S PS	£ 12,866
3036039	ST MARY'S PS (GLENVIEW)	£ 17,584	New School
3036559	ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PS	£ 19,285	New School
3050519	CARNLOUGH CONTROLLED INTEGRATED PS	£ 6,832
3053333	BALLYCASTLE INTEGRATED SCHOOL	£ 10,850
3056231	RATHENRAW INTEGRATED PS	£ 8,960
3056248	ROUNDTOWER INTEGRATED PS	£ 13,790
3116263	BALLYSALLY NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 7,112
3210090	MAGHERA HIGH SCHOOL	£ 12,068
3210124	BALLYCASTLE HIGH SCHOOL	£ 18,277
3210200	MONKSTOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOL	£ 24,038
3210233	BALLEE COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL	£ 18,109
3210279	NEWTOWNABBEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL	£ 15,015
3230203	EDMUND RICE COLLEGE	£ 21,966
3310018	ROSSTULLA SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 12,404	New School
3316512	SANDELFORD SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 11,690
3316676	CASTLETOWER SCHOOL	£ 16,380	New School
3340002	JORDANSTOWN SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 7,504

NB the buffer zone – due to the change in eligibility criteria some previously funded schools may slip below the qualifying criteria one year and then qualify the next. Therefore a "buffer" zone" has been created to allow previously funded schools falling a few percentage points below the threshold to be funded for 2 years at a reduced amount, (50%) if eligibility has not been re-established after 2 years, these schools will exit the programme.

DENI Ref	Schools - Not Eligible	Allocation		Annex 2
3010553	CARRICKFERGUS MODEL PS	£ 3,553
3010558	DUNEANE PS	£ 1,110
3010631	BALLYCLARE PS	£ 4,338
3010841	CARRICKFERGUS CENTRAL PS	£ 2,200
3010870	MOYLE PS	£ 3,464
3010880	KING'S PARK PS	£ 3,835
3012267	MAGHERAFELT CONTROLLED PS	£ 3,702
3013301	CARNMONEY PS	£ 3,286
3013322	CAMPHILL PS	£ 3,818
3013325	LEANEY PS	£ 3,204
3016015	MOSSLEY PS	£ 4,085
3016594	BUSHVALLEY PS	£ 2,496
3030713	CARLANE PS	£ 1,219
3030898	ST ANNE'S PS	£ 1,725
3030900	ST ANTHONY'S PS	£ 2,056
3033303	ST OLIVER PLUNKETT'S PS	£ 2,461
3033304	TIR-NA-NOG PS	£ 1,219
3033709	ST JOHN'S PS	£ 2,737
3036046	ST MARY'S ON THE HILL PS	£ 3,038
3036050	ST JOSEPH'S PS	£ 2,997
3036100	ST JAMES' PS	£ 3,242
3036154	ST PATRICK'S PS	£ 2,823
3036562	HOLY FAMILY PS	£ 4,451
3036563	ST NICHOLAS' PS	£ 1,803
3066561	CORRAN INTEGRATED PS	£ 2,875
3110037	BALLYMENA NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,205
3116162	MOSSLEY NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,270
3116165	DUNCLUG NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,275
3116177	MAGHERAFELT NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,760
3116215	KYLEMORE NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,438
3116220	BALLYCLARE NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,765
3136183	ST JOSEPH'S NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,461
3136332	ST ANTHONY'S NURSERY SCHOOL	£ 1,461
3316510	HILL CROFT SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 1,590
3316514	RODDENS VALE SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 1,783
3316570	KILRONAN SPECIAL SCHOOL	£ 1,430

Mobile Classrooms in Schools

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 4564/08, how long is 'short term'.

(AQW 7148/08)

Ms C Ruane: There are no set timescales for the use of temporary accommodation. It will depend on the overall accommodation needs at the school, taking into account whether a replacement school is planned or whether the need to accommodate increased enrolments is expected to continue. It would be expected in such circumstances that short term could be for a period of several years.

Déantar an gá atá le seomraí so-aithritheacha a athsholáthar ar bhonn thosca ar leith na scoile.

The need to replace mobiles is assessed on the basis of the particular circumstances at the school.

Mobile Classrooms in Schools

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education how many schools, broken down by sector and Education and Library board, operate completely out of mobiles.

(AQW 7149/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá na scoileanna amháin atá ag feidhmiú go huile as cóiríocht sho-aistritheach sna hearnálacha comhtháite trí Ghaeilge agus faoi chothabháil stáit. Is é a líon mar seo a leanas:

The only schools operating completely out of mobile accommodation are in the Irish medium and grant maintained integrated sectors. The numbers are as follows:

Education and Library Board area	Irish medium schools	Grant maintained integrated schools
BELB	2	0
SEELB	2	2
NEELB	4	2
SELB	1	2
WELB	5	2

Proposed Leaflet Concerning the Post-Primary Transfer Policy

Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Education how much it will cost to produce and deliver to every household the proposed leaflet concerning the post-primary transfer policy.

(AQW 7242/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Faoi láthair tá mé ag smaoineamh ar conas is fearr mo chuid moltaí maidir le haistriú iarbhunscoile a chur in iúl agus a mhíniú don phobal i gcoitinne.

I am currently considering how best to communicate and explain my proposals on post primary transfer to the wider community.

Taughmonagh Primary School

Mr Spratt asked the Minister of Education for an update on plans for a new build for Taughmonagh Primary School, South Belfast.

(AQW 7282/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá curtha in iúl ag Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne Bhéal Feirste go bhfuil pleanáil don scoil nua ar siúl agus go bhfuil idirbheartaíocht ar bun lena chomhpháirtí straitéiseach faoin tionscadal.

The Belfast Education and Library Board has advised that planning of the new school is underway and that negotiations are taking place with its strategic partner on the project. It is estimated that construction work could start on site in the autumn 2009 with an estimated 18 month construction period. The timescale is of course subject to the necessary planning and building processes being completed satisfactorily and the availability of resources in any particular year.

Grammar Schools and Entrance Exams

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education what Grammar schools have indicated they intend to set their own entrance exams.

(AQW 7297/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Is ar bhonn neamhspleách ón Roinn Oideachais agus ón Chomhairle Churacalaim, Scrúdúcháin agus Mheasúnachta atá moltaí roinnt scoileanna gramadaí chun scrúduithe iontrála a thabhairt isteach á dtabhairt chun cinn.

The proposals by a number of grammar schools to introduce entrance examinations are being taken forward independently of the Department of Education and the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment. The Department therefore has no involvement in these proposals.

The Department has only taken receipt of one school’s (Lumen Christi Grammar School, Derry) intention to introduce an entrance examination for admissions in September 2010, an intention also announced in the Press on 20 March, 2008.

In addition, in a press release issued by the Association for Quality Education on 23 April, it was stated that thirty grammar schools had agreed to the establishment of a corporate mechanism to deliver a common entrance examination. These schools are named in the AQE Press Release.

Departmental Meetings with Teaching Unions

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education how many meetings she has held with each of the teaching unions since taking up office, including (i) the date of, and (ii) the reason for, each meeting.

(AQW 7414/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ó chuaigh mé i mbun oifige thionóil mé cruinnithe le gach ceann de na ceardchumainn mhúinteoireachta mar seo a leanas:

Since taking up office I have held meetings with each of the teaching unions as follows:

NASUWT Meetings	2 Meetings
31 May 2007	The vision for Education in NI
16 January 2008	Negotiating Arrangements Social Partnership Restoration of Parity Workforce Review

NAHT Meetings	2 Meetings
2 July 2007	Funding Teacher Welfare Teacher Workload/Overload Special Education/Social Inclusion
25 April 2008	English as an Additional Language

INTO Meetings	2 Meetings
20 June 2007	Education Funding RPA Post Primary Review
7 November 2007	Curran Report Planning, Preparation & Assessment Time Teacher Education Negotiating Committee Constitution Colleges to offer Irish as an option in Primary Initial Teacher Training Classes Revised Curriculum

NITC Meetings	2 Meetings
29 June 2007	Education Funding RPA Academic Selection
5 March 2008	Academic Selection Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme Teacher Education Negotiating Committee Constitution

All Teacher Unions	1 Meeting
19 May 2008	Post Primary Transfer

As well as the meetings detailed above, I have also attended the following events:

13 April 2007	NASUWT Conference
7 March 2008	NASUWT Conference
14 March 2008	UTU Conference
8 August 2007	Interview for ATL Magazine
29 May 2008	NAHT Conference
29 February 2008	INTO Northern Conference
25 March 2008	INTO Conference

Violence and Expulsion in Primary and Post-Primary Schools

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) incidents of persistent bad behaviour; (ii) incidents of violence; and (iii) expulsions, have occurred in (a) primary; (b) secondary; and (iii) grammar schools, in the East Belfast constituency, in each of the last 3 academic years.

(AQW 7426/08)

Ms C Ruane: Information collected annually from the Education and Library Boards on suspensions and expulsions gives an indication of the level of persistent bad behaviour and violence in schools. The position in schools in the East Belfast constituency in each of the last 3 academic years is set out in the following tables:

Table A

Number of suspensions in the East Belfast constituency due to incidents of persistent bad behaviour¹

Sector	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07
Primary	5	*	*
Secondary	44	32	42
Grammar	*	6	26

¹ Incidents of persistent bad behaviour includes the number of occasions pupils were suspended for persistent infringement of school rules

* denotes fewer than five cases

Table B

Number of suspensions in the East Belfast constituency due to incidents of violence¹

Sector	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07
Primary	27	23	13
Secondary	55	54	59
Grammar	11	19	14

¹ Incidents of violence includes the number of occasions pupils were suspended for a physical attack on a pupil or for a physical attack on a member of staff

Ina iomláine, tharla níos lú ná 5 dhíbirt ó bhunscoileanna, meánscoileanna agus scoileanna gramadaí i dToghlach Bhéal Feirste Thoir le linn na 3 bliana seo caite.

In total, there have been fewer than 5 expulsions from primary, secondary and grammar schools in the East Belfast Constituency over the course of the last 3 school years.

Improvement of Educational Achievement Levels in East Belfast

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education to outline her strategy to (i) improve educational achievement levels; and (ii) upgrade the schools' estate, at primary level in the East Belfast constituency.

(AQW 7427/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Mar Aire Oideachais, dírím ar fheabhsú leibhéil ghnóthachtála ar fud an tuaiscirt agus go háirithe ar a chinntiú go mbainfidh na daoine óga uilig amach a n-acmhainneacht.

As Education Minister my focus is on improving achievement levels across the north and particularly on ensuring that all our young people fulfil their potential.

The revised school improvement policy, ‘Every School a Good School’ is a key policy in our drive to promote achievement and tackle underachievement. Consultation on proposals for the revised policy has been completed and we are reviewing and amending the policy in light of the comments received.

The school improvement policy will be supported and complemented through other developments such as the revised curriculum; a review of Special Educational Need and in particular a revised literacy and numeracy strategy which will be published for consultation in the coming weeks. Additionally, the Belfast and Western Education Library Boards are undertaking targeted programmes aimed at supporting teachers and young people in the two cities in addressing particular challenges relating to underachievement in literacy and numeracy.

In relation to your question about the schools' estate at primary level, I can advise that a number of major capital projects are currently being planned for schools in the East Belfast constituency. These include the amalgamation of Strand P.S. with Sydenham P.S. in a new school on their existing site and a new school for Strandtown P.S. on the existing site. Funding for both projects was approved in 2004 and 2006 respectively and planning is currently being taken forward by the Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB). A new school for Orangefield P.S. on a new site is also being taken forward by the BELB. This project will be funded through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) and is currently under construction, with an estimated completion date of April 2009.

CCMS has also identified the potential need for a capital scheme for St Joseph’s P.S., Holland Drive. However, they have also identified a number of other, rationalisation, schemes that they consider to be of a higher priority and these schemes are being progressed in the first instance.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) as part of its strategic review of the school estate within its domain, has identified the need for future rationalisation of primary provision along the Castlereagh dual carriageway area but there are no current or imminent proposals.

The BELB last year published a consultation document on "Building Schools for the Future" in which it examined the position of the primary school estate within its domain. Although the Board has held a series of consultations about the schools estate with a number of primary schools no proposals have been confirmed as yet.

Youth Groups in East Belfast

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education how many youth groups in the East Belfast constituency are registered with the Belfast Education and Library Board; how much funding is received by each of these groups; and what plans she has to increase the funding for these groups.

(AQW 7428/08)

Ms C Ruane:

The Department of Education currently provides funding to the Belfast Education and Library Board for youth services in its area.

The Chief Executive of the Belfast Education and Library Board has confirmed that there are 82 youth groups in the East Belfast constituency registered with the Board, of which 54 received funding during the 2007/08 financial year. Information for 2008/09 is not yet available as funding applications are still being processed by the Board.

The table below details the groups registered with the Belfast Education and Library Board and the amount of funding they received under the two funding schemes operated by the Board:

Youth Service Programme

UNIT	2007/08 £s
100th Boys Brigade	500
10th Belfast Scouts	3,145
113th Boys Brigade	Nil
114th Girl Guides	600
11th Belfast Scouts	2,847
11th Belfast Venture Scouts	210
11th Brownies	Nil
148th Girls Brigade	Nil
15th Cregagh Methodist Girls Brigade	75
233rd Girls Brigade	Nil
25th Belfast Boys Brigade	2,504
26th Belfast Scouts	952
29th Girls Brigade	Nil
30th Belfast Guides	Nil
30th Boys Brigade	Nil
33rd Belfast Scouts	447
3rd St Brendan’s Scouts	500
4th Belfast Scouts	Nil
66th South East Scouts	Nil
69th Belfast Guides	Nil
79th Boys Brigade	Nil
82nd Boys Brigade	296
83rd Girls Brigade	75
86th Belfast Guides	Nil
89th Girl Guides	Nil
93rd Belfast Brownies	Nil
93rd Belfast Guides	Nil
93rd Girls Brigade	Nil
94th Boys Brigade	Nil
95th Girls Brigade	Nil
99th Belfast Scouts	Nil
AGAPE Youth Fellowship	Nil
Archway Youth Club	42,491
Ardcarn Residents Association	1,000
Ballymac	4,000
Bloomfield Methodist	Nil
CEHT Community House	1,000
Clarawood Youth Club	7,599
Doyle Youth Club	80,889
East Belfast Area Project	197,580
East Belfast Mission	2,000
Inner East Youth Project	6,500
Knock Junior Youth Club	Nil
Knocknagoney Youth Club	4,142
KPC Youth	1,063
Ledley Hall Youth Club	45,941
Nemesis Special Needs Club	Nil
Orangefield Youth Club	15,809
Park Avenue Free Methodist Church	500
Playzone	1,100
Roslyn Street Youth Club	7,001
St Brendan’s Rainbows, Brownies & Guides	500
St Mathews Guides	Nil
Stormont Guides	Nil
Sydenham Methodist Girls Brigade	Nil
Sydenham Youth club	17,367
The Bridge Community Association Youth Club	1,300
Walkway Community Association	5,741
Wandsworth Community Centre	1,000
Total	456,674

Youth Service Community Relations Support Scheme

UNIT	2007/08 £s
10th Belfast Scout Troop	600
11th Belfast Scouts	600
St Colmcille’s Brigin Section	563
Archway Youth Centre	1,245
Ardcarn Residents Association	600
Ballymac Youth Project	287
CEHT Community House	600
Clarawood Community Association	1,200
Doyle Youth Club	5,399
East Belfast Area Project	7,328
East Belfast Mission	600
Inner East Youth Project	600
KPC Youth	600
Ledley Hall Boys & Girls Club Trust	1,060
Park Avenue Free Methodist Church	120
Playzone	600
Roslyn Street Youth Club	600
Sydenham Youth Club	1,100
The Bridge Youth Club	520
Walkway Community Association	600
Wandsworth Community Association	500
Total Funding	25,322

Tá an fhreagracht ar Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne Bhéal Feirste cinneadh a dhéanamh faoi conas a bhuiséad a dháileadh agus faoi na grúpaí a mhaoiníonn sé bunaithe ar a mheasúnú ar riachtanais sa limistéar.

It is the responsibility of the Belfast Education and Library Board to decide how to distribute its budget and what groups funds based on its assessment of needs in the area.

Special Education Officers

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education how many officers dealing with special education, particularly children with cerebral palsy, are qualified teachers with a minimum of 5 years teaching experience and qualified to teach children with cerebral palsy, broken down by Education and Library Board.

(AQW 7462/08)

Ms C Ruane:

I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the education and library boards that the number of officers dealing with special education who are qualified teachers with a minimum of 5 years teaching experience and qualified to teach children with cerebal palsy is as follows:-

BELB	78
NEELB	56
SEELB	43
SELB	55
WELB	38

Déanann na figiúirí thuas tagairt d’oifigigh Bhoird ar a n-áirítear múinteoirí taistil.

The above figures refer to Board officers including peripatetic teachers.

Independent Special Schools

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education to list the special schools that specialise in educating children with cerebral palsy in each Education and Library Board area.

(AQW 7465/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Ní chomhlíonann aon scoil ar leith sainfheidhm eisiatach i dtaca le pairilís cheirbreach. Ach tá ar chumas gach scoil speisialta faoi chothabháil stáit soláthar cuí a dhéanamh in oiliúint linbh le pairilís cheirbreach agus lucht sláinte gairmiúil oilte ag tacú leo a chuirfeadh teiripe ar fáil atá sainiúil do riachtanais an pháiste

No individual school fulfils an exclusive specialist function in relation to cerebral palsy. Rather all grant-maintained special schools are capable of making appropriate provision in educating a child with cerebral palsy supported by trained health professionals who would provide therapy specific to the needs of the child.

Independent Special Schools

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education to list the independent special schools in each Education and Library Board area; and how many of these schools educate children with cerebral palsy.

(AQW 7466/08)

Ms C Ruane:

BELB	None
NEELB	None
SEELB	Glencraig Curative School, Craigavad
SELB	Buddy Bear School, Dungannon
WELB	None

Díobh siúd cuireann an Buddy Bear School oideachas stiúrtha ar fáil do leanaí le pairilís cheirbreach.

Of these the Buddy Bear School currently offers conductive education to children with cerebal palsy.

Sure Start Funding

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why the Sure Start funded group for the Ards peninsula does not cover Millisle.

(AQW 7477/08)

Ms C Ruane:

The current policy of the Department of Education is to maintain Sure Start coverage of the 20% most deprived ward areas in the north of Ireland, as ranked by the NI Multiple Deprivation Measure Score. As Millisle falls outside the catchment areas there are no Sure Start programmes/services available within their ward area.

Ó thaobh na tíreolaíochta de, tá na limistéir bharda atá cuimsithe ag Sure Start agus an maoiniú measta atá ar fáil i 2008/2009, do gach tionscadal, le fáil sa tábla seo thíos:

Geographically, the ward areas covered by Sure Start and the estimated funding available in 2008/09, for each project, are contained within the table below:

Sure Start Projects	Ward Areas Covered	Estimated available budget 08-09
Smile	New Lodge Waterworks Duncairn Mt.Vernon & Shore Cres. (Castleview) York Park (Fortwilliam)	£441244
Glenbrook	Ardoyne Cliftonville Legoniel	£411704
Shankill	Shankill Highfield Glencairn Woodvale Ballysillan Crumlin (Belfast)	£487149
Clan Mor	Falls Clonard	£447685
Downpatrick Downpatrick (continued)	Cathedral Ardglass Ballymote (Flying Horse) Audleys Acre Quoile Strangford Killough	£551404
Lower Ards Peninsula	Portaferry Ballywalter Kircubbin Portavogie Scrabo	£481795
Colin Neighbourhood	Collin Glen Twinbrook Kilwee Lagmore (Derryaghey) Old Warren Poleglass	£546349
East Belfast	Island The Mount Ballymacarrett Woodstock Enler Tullycarnet	£594634
South Belfast	Shaftesbury Ballynafeigh Botanic Blackstaff Upper Malone	£618620
Outer West (Andersonstown)	Andersonstown Glencolin Glen Road Ladybrook	£419682
Upper Springfield	Falls Park Upper Springfield Whiterock	£378682
Beechmount	Beechmount	£163432
Little Hands, Creevagh	Rosemount Crevagh Springtown	£440984
Shantallow	Shantallow East Shantallow West Carnhill Culmore Area	£500370
Dungiven	Greystone The Highlands Dungiven Feeny Upper Glenshane Glack Coolessan	£461186
Strabane	North South East West Ballycolman Sion Mills Finn Dunnamanagh Plumbridge	£667787
Last, Omagh	Lisanelly Drumragh Killyclogher Camowen Strule Fintona Termon	£508805
Cherish Irvinestown	Irvinestown Kesh, Ederney and Lack Lisnarrick Ballinamallard Trillick Devenish Rosslea Newtownbutler	£511688
West Bank, Derry	Brandywell The Diamond Westland Strand Beechwood Creggan Central Creggan South	£338458
East Bank, Derry	Victoria Ebrington Clondermott Enagh	£438979
West Tyrone	Castlederg Glenderg Clare Drumquin Newtownstewart	£321387
Ballymena South	Dunclug Fair Green Ballykeel Moat Ballee Harryville	£658642
Coleraine	University Ballysally Cross Glebe Central Churchland Knocklynn	£539433
Dalriada	Ballylough Bushmills Dunseverick Kinbane Moss-side and Moyarget Armoy Dalriada Glentaisie Benamargy and Rathlin	£487882
Gold	Oldtown Gortalowry Killymoon Ardboe	£553169
Horizon/Larne Horizon/Larne (continued)	Love Lane Northland Clipperstown Sunnylands Ballyloran Craigy Hill Antiville	£449864
Newtownabbey	Cloughfern Monkstown Dunanney Coole Abbey Whitehouse Valley	£567556
Clogher Valley	Anghnacloy Augher Ballygawley Clogher Fivemiletown	£455728
Orana	Ballybot Daisyhill Drumalane Drumgullion St Mary’s St Patrick’s Windsor Hill	£638249
Close To Home (Dungannon)	Ballysaggart Benburb Coalisland South Coolhill Drumglass Killymeal Moygashel Mullaghmore Castlecaulfield	£500127
South Armagh	Bessbrook Camlough Creggan Crossmaglen Derrymore Newtownhamilton	£549277
Blossom	Annagh Ballybay Ballyoran Brownstown Corcrain Tavanagh	£501947
Arke Early Years	Keady Callanbridge	£102500
Splash	Church Court Drumgask Drumgor Drumnamoe Taghnevan	£552359

Sure Start Funding

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what Sure Start funded programmes are available for people in Millisle.

(AQW 7478/08)

Ms C Ruane:

The current policy of the Department of Education is to maintain Sure Start coverage of the 20% most deprived ward areas in the north of Ireland, as ranked by the NI Multiple Deprivation Measure Score. As Millisle falls outside the catchment areas there are no Sure Start programmes/services available within their ward area.

Ó thaobh na tíreolaíochta de, tá na limistéir bharda atá cuimsithe ag Sure Start agus an maoiniú measta atá ar fáil i 2008/2009, do gach tionscadal, le fáil sa tábla seo thíos:

Geographically, the ward areas covered by Sure Start and the estimated funding available in 2008/09, for each project, are contained within the table below:

Sure Start Projects	Ward Areas Covered	Estimated available budget 08-09
Smile	New Lodge Waterworks Duncairn Mt.Vernon & Shore Cres. (Castleview) York Park (Fortwilliam)	£441244
Glenbrook	Ardoyne Cliftonville Legoniel	£411704
Shankill	Shankill Highfield Glencairn Woodvale Ballysillan Crumlin (Belfast)	£487149
Clan Mor	Falls Clonard	£447685
Downpatrick Downpatrick (continued)	Cathedral Ardglass Ballymote (Flying Horse) Audleys Acre Quoile Strangford Killough	£551404
Lower Ards Peninsula	Portaferry Ballywalter Kircubbin Portavogie Scrabo	£481795
Colin Neighbourhood	Collin Glen Twinbrook Kilwee Lagmore (Derryaghey) Old Warren Poleglass	£546349
East Belfast	Island The Mount Ballymacarrett Woodstock Enler Tullycarnet	£594634
South Belfast	Shaftesbury Ballynafeigh Botanic Blackstaff Upper Malone	£618620
Outer West (Andersonstown)	Andersonstown Glencolin Glen Road Ladybrook	£419682
Upper Springfield	Falls Park Upper Springfield Whiterock	£378682
Beechmount	Beechmount	£163432
Little Hands, Creevagh	Rosemount Crevagh Springtown	£440984
Shantallow	Shantallow East Shantallow West Carnhill Culmore Area	£500370
Dungiven	Greystone The Highlands Dungiven Feeny Upper Glenshane Glack Coolessan	£461186
Strabane	North South East West Ballycolman Sion Mills Finn Dunnamanagh Plumbridge	£667787
Last, Omagh	Lisanelly Drumragh Killyclogher Camowen Strule Fintona Termon	£508805
Cherish Irvinestown	Irvinestown Kesh, Ederney and Lack Lisnarrick Ballinamallard Trillick Devenish Rosslea Newtownbutler	£511688
West Bank, Derry	Brandywell The Diamond Westland Strand Beechwood Creggan Central Creggan South	£338458
East Bank, Derry	Victoria Ebrington Clondermott Enagh	£438979
West Tyrone	Castlederg Glenderg Clare Drumquin Newtownstewart	£321387
Ballymena South	Dunclug Fair Green Ballykeel Moat Ballee Harryville	£658642
Coleraine	University Ballysally Cross Glebe Central Churchland Knocklynn	£539433
Dalriada	Ballylough Bushmills Dunseverick Kinbane Moss-side and Moyarget Armoy Dalriada Glentaisie Benamargy and Rathlin	£487882
Gold	Oldtown Gortalowry Killymoon Ardboe	£553169
Horizon/Larne Horizon/Larne (continued)	Love Lane Northland Clipperstown Sunnylands Ballyloran Craigy Hill Antiville	£449864
Newtownabbey	Cloughfern Monkstown Dunanney Coole Abbey Whitehouse Valley	£567556
Clogher Valley	Anghnacloy Augher Ballygawley Clogher Fivemiletown	£455728
Orana	Ballybot Daisyhill Drumalane Drumgullion St Mary’s St Patrick’s Windsor Hill	£638249
Close To Home (Dungannon)	Ballysaggart Benburb Coalisland South Coolhill Drumglass Killymeal Moygashel Mullaghmore Castlecaulfield	£500127
South Armagh	Bessbrook Camlough Creggan Crossmaglen Derrymore Newtownhamilton	£549277
Blossom	Annagh Ballybay Ballyoran Brownstown Corcrain Tavanagh	£501947
Arke Early Years	Keady Callanbridge	£102500
Splash	Church Court Drumgask Drumgor Drumnamoe Taghnevan	£552359

Sure Start Funding

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what geographical areas are covered by each of the Sure Start funded groups.

(AQW 7479/08)

Ms C Ruane:

The current policy of the Department of Education is to maintain Sure Start coverage of the 20% most deprived ward areas in the north of Ireland, as ranked by the NI Multiple Deprivation Measure Score. As Millisle falls outside the catchment areas there are no Sure Start programmes/services available within their ward area.

Ó thaobh na tíreolaíochta de, tá na limistéir bharda atá cuimsithe ag Sure Start agus an maoiniú measta atá ar fáil i 2008/2009, do gach tionscadal, le fáil sa tábla seo thíos:

Geographically, the ward areas covered by Sure Start and the estimated funding available in 2008/09, for each project, are contained within the table below:

Sure Start Projects	Ward Areas Covered	Estimated available budget 08-09
Smile	New Lodge Waterworks Duncairn Mt.Vernon & Shore Cres. (Castleview) York Park (Fortwilliam)	£441244
Glenbrook	Ardoyne Cliftonville Legoniel	£411704
Shankill	Shankill Highfield Glencairn Woodvale Ballysillan Crumlin (Belfast)	£487149
Clan Mor	Falls Clonard	£447685
Downpatrick Downpatrick (continued)	Cathedral Ardglass Ballymote (Flying Horse) Audleys Acre Quoile Strangford Killough	£551404
Lower Ards Peninsula	Portaferry Ballywalter Kircubbin Portavogie Scrabo	£481795
Colin Neighbourhood	Collin Glen Twinbrook Kilwee Lagmore (Derryaghey) Old Warren Poleglass	£546349
East Belfast	Island The Mount Ballymacarrett Woodstock Enler Tullycarnet	£594634
South Belfast	Shaftesbury Ballynafeigh Botanic Blackstaff Upper Malone	£618620
Outer West (Andersonstown)	Andersonstown Glencolin Glen Road Ladybrook	£419682
Upper Springfield	Falls Park Upper Springfield Whiterock	£378682
Beechmount	Beechmount	£163432
Little Hands, Creevagh	Rosemount Crevagh Springtown	£440984
Shantallow	Shantallow East Shantallow West Carnhill Culmore Area	£500370
Dungiven	Greystone The Highlands Dungiven Feeny Upper Glenshane Glack Coolessan	£461186
Strabane	North South East West Ballycolman Sion Mills Finn Dunnamanagh Plumbridge	£667787
Last, Omagh	Lisanelly Drumragh Killyclogher Camowen Strule Fintona Termon	£508805
Cherish Irvinestown	Irvinestown Kesh, Ederney and Lack Lisnarrick Ballinamallard Trillick Devenish Rosslea Newtownbutler	£511688
West Bank, Derry	Brandywell The Diamond Westland Strand Beechwood Creggan Central Creggan South	£338458
East Bank, Derry	Victoria Ebrington Clondermott Enagh	£438979
West Tyrone	Castlederg Glenderg Clare Drumquin Newtownstewart	£321387
Ballymena South	Dunclug Fair Green Ballykeel Moat Ballee Harryville	£658642
Coleraine	University Ballysally Cross Glebe Central Churchland Knocklynn	£539433
Dalriada	Ballylough Bushmills Dunseverick Kinbane Moss-side and Moyarget Armoy Dalriada Glentaisie Benamargy and Rathlin	£487882
Gold	Oldtown Gortalowry Killymoon Ardboe	£553169
Horizon/Larne Horizon/Larne (continued)	Love Lane Northland Clipperstown Sunnylands Ballyloran Craigy Hill Antiville	£449864
Newtownabbey	Cloughfern Monkstown Dunanney Coole Abbey Whitehouse Valley	£567556
Clogher Valley	Anghnacloy Augher Ballygawley Clogher Fivemiletown	£455728
Orana	Ballybot Daisyhill Drumalane Drumgullion St Mary’s St Patrick’s Windsor Hill	£638249
Close To Home (Dungannon)	Ballysaggart Benburb Coalisland South Coolhill Drumglass Killymeal Moygashel Mullaghmore Castlecaulfield	£500127
South Armagh	Bessbrook Camlough Creggan Crossmaglen Derrymore Newtownhamilton	£549277
Blossom	Annagh Ballybay Ballyoran Brownstown Corcrain Tavanagh	£501947
Arke Early Years	Keady Callanbridge	£102500
Splash	Church Court Drumgask Drumgor Drumnamoe Taghnevan	£552359

Sure Start Funding

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what funding has been made available to each Sure Start group for the 2008-09 financial year.

(AQW 7480/08)

Ms C Ruane:

The current policy of the Department of Education is to maintain Sure Start coverage of the 20% most deprived ward areas in the north of Ireland, as ranked by the NI Multiple Deprivation Measure Score. As Millisle falls outside the catchment areas there are no Sure Start programmes/services available within their ward area.

Ó thaobh na tíreolaíochta de, tá na limistéir bharda atá cuimsithe ag Sure Start agus an maoiniú measta atá ar fáil i 2008/2009, do gach tionscadal, le fáil sa tábla seo thíos:

Geographically, the ward areas covered by Sure Start and the estimated funding available in 2008/09, for each project, are contained within the table below:

Sure Start Projects	Ward Areas Covered	Estimated available budget 08-09
Smile	New Lodge Waterworks Duncairn Mt.Vernon & Shore Cres. (Castleview) York Park (Fortwilliam)	£441244
Glenbrook	Ardoyne Cliftonville Legoniel	£411704
Shankill	Shankill Highfield Glencairn Woodvale Ballysillan Crumlin (Belfast)	£487149
Clan Mor	Falls Clonard	£447685
Downpatrick Downpatrick (continued)	Cathedral Ardglass Ballymote (Flying Horse) Audleys Acre Quoile Strangford Killough	£551404
Lower Ards Peninsula	Portaferry Ballywalter Kircubbin Portavogie Scrabo	£481795
Colin Neighbourhood	Collin Glen Twinbrook Kilwee Lagmore (Derryaghey) Old Warren Poleglass	£546349
East Belfast	Island The Mount Ballymacarrett Woodstock Enler Tullycarnet	£594634
South Belfast	Shaftesbury Ballynafeigh Botanic Blackstaff Upper Malone	£618620
Outer West (Andersonstown)	Andersonstown Glencolin Glen Road Ladybrook	£419682
Upper Springfield	Falls Park Upper Springfield Whiterock	£378682
Beechmount	Beechmount	£163432
Little Hands, Creevagh	Rosemount Crevagh Springtown	£440984
Shantallow	Shantallow East Shantallow West Carnhill Culmore Area	£500370
Dungiven	Greystone The Highlands Dungiven Feeny Upper Glenshane Glack Coolessan	£461186
Strabane	North South East West Ballycolman Sion Mills Finn Dunnamanagh Plumbridge	£667787
Last, Omagh	Lisanelly Drumragh Killyclogher Camowen Strule Fintona Termon	£508805
Cherish Irvinestown	Irvinestown Kesh, Ederney and Lack Lisnarrick Ballinamallard Trillick Devenish Rosslea Newtownbutler	£511688
West Bank, Derry	Brandywell The Diamond Westland Strand Beechwood Creggan Central Creggan South	£338458
East Bank, Derry	Victoria Ebrington Clondermott Enagh	£438979
West Tyrone	Castlederg Glenderg Clare Drumquin Newtownstewart	£321387
Ballymena South	Dunclug Fair Green Ballykeel Moat Ballee Harryville	£658642
Coleraine	University Ballysally Cross Glebe Central Churchland Knocklynn	£539433
Dalriada	Ballylough Bushmills Dunseverick Kinbane Moss-side and Moyarget Armoy Dalriada Glentaisie Benamargy and Rathlin	£487882
Gold	Oldtown Gortalowry Killymoon Ardboe	£553169
Horizon/Larne Horizon/Larne (continued)	Love Lane Northland Clipperstown Sunnylands Ballyloran Craigy Hill Antiville	£449864
Newtownabbey	Cloughfern Monkstown Dunanney Coole Abbey Whitehouse Valley	£567556
Clogher Valley	Anghnacloy Augher Ballygawley Clogher Fivemiletown	£455728
Orana	Ballybot Daisyhill Drumalane Drumgullion St Mary’s St Patrick’s Windsor Hill	£638249
Close To Home (Dungannon)	Ballysaggart Benburb Coalisland South Coolhill Drumglass Killymeal Moygashel Mullaghmore Castlecaulfield	£500127
South Armagh	Bessbrook Camlough Creggan Crossmaglen Derrymore Newtownhamilton	£549277
Blossom	Annagh Ballybay Ballyoran Brownstown Corcrain Tavanagh	£501947
Arke Early Years	Keady Callanbridge	£102500
Splash	Church Court Drumgask Drumgor Drumnamoe Taghnevan	£552359

Primary Languages Programme

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education who will monitor and evaluate the Primary Languages Programme; what methods will be used in the monitoring; and when it will take place.

(AQW 7500/08)

Ms C Ruane: A Primary Languages Group, representative of key education partners, has been set up to manage and monitor the Primary Languages Programme on an ongoing basis. The Group reports to the Partnership Management Board and to my Department.

D’iarr mé ar an gCigireacht Oideachais & Oiliúna measúnú neamhspleách a dhéanamh ar mo Chlár Teangacha Bunscoile, a mbeidh i gceist leis agallaimh le múinteoirí, teagascóirí agus príomhoidí agus cleachtas sa seomra ranga a bhreathnú. Beidh sé sin ar siúl le linn na scoilbhliana 2008-9.

I have asked the Education & Training Inspectorate to carry out an independent evaluation of my Primary Languages Programme, which will involve interviews with teachers, tutors and principals and observation of practice in the classroom. This will take place during the 2008-09 school year.

Retirement Age of Education and Library Board Officers

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education to clarify the age of retirement (i) Education and Library Board officers; and (ii) departmental officials.

(AQW 7513/08)

Ms C Ruane: The compulsory retirement age for Education and Library Board officers is 65 (except where this has been increased by local agreement, i.e. School Crossing Patrols age 75).

The compulsory age of retirement for department officials is 65. However, Department staff may retire without having their accrued pension entitlement reduced, at age 60 or 65, depending on their pension arrangements under the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme (NI).

Ina theannta sin, tugann na Rialacháin um Chomhionannas Fostaíochta (Tuaisceart Éireann) 2006, a tháinig i bhfeidhm ó Dheireadh Fómhair 2006, an ceart bunreachtúil do gach fostaí obair a iarraidh i ndiaidh aois a 65.

In addition, the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006, effective from October 2006, gives all employees the statutory right to request to work beyond 65.

The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education if (i) any of the Education and Library Boards; or (ii) her Department, have made, or are currently making, adjustments to accommodate individuals working beyond the age of 65.

(AQW 7514/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Thug na Rialacháin um Chomhionannas Fostaíochta (Aois) 2006, atá i bhfeidhm ó 1 Deireadh Fómhair 2006, an ceart reachtúil d’fhostaithe obair a iarraidh i ndiaidh aois 65.

The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006, effective from 1 October 2006, has provided employees with the statutory right to request to work beyond age 65.

No applications to work beyond 65 have been received by the Department. Available information from the Education and Library Boards indicates that 295 applications have been received, of which 254 have been approved; 36 remain under consideration; and 5 have been turned down. These figures are in respect of all non-teaching staff, including school-based staff. The decision on approval or otherwise rests with the employing authority and the legislation does not require a reason to be given for the decision. There is no provision within age discrimination legislation to make adjustments to accommodate individuals working beyond 65. The Boards advise that no adjustments were necessary in respect of the applications that have been approved.

Chief Executive Officers of Education and Library Boards

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education what (i) quangos; and (ii) non-departmental bodies or agencies, on which the Chief Executive officers of (a) the Education and Library Boards; and (b) Council for Catholic Maintained Schools, are currently members.

(AQW 7517/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sainaithníonn an tábla seo thíos na comhlachtaí a bhfuil Príomhoifigí Fheidhmiúcháin (a) na mBord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne, agus (b) Chomhairle na Scoileanna Caitliceacha faoi Chothabháil ina mbaill díobh faoi láthair.

The table below identifies the bodies of which the Chief Executive officers of (a) the Education and Library Boards; and (b) Council for Catholic Maintained Schools are currently members.

BOARD/CCMS	QUANGO/NDPB /AGENCY
BELB	Staff Commission for Education and Library Boards. British Council NI Advisory Committee.
CCMS	Middletown Autism Centre. DARD – Independent Board Member. South Eastern Trust – Non Executive Director.
NEELB	The General Teaching Council (NI).
SEELB	None
SELB	Council for Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA). Cookstown Local Strategic Partnerships. Newry Local Strategic Partnerships.
WELB	Staff Commission for Education and Library Boards.

Departmental Phone Numbers

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Education to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, her Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7523/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ní fheidhmíonn an Roinn Oideachais ná Comhlachtaí Neamhrannacha Poiblí (CNRP) in earnáil an oideachais uimhreacha teileafóin 0845 ná 0870 ar bith. Níl áisínteachtaí ar bith ag an Roinn.

Neither the Department of Education nor any Non Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs) in the education sector operate 0845 or 0870 telephone numbers. The Department does not have any agencies.

Summer Schemes for Children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education what funding is available for summer schemes for children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in the Strangford constituency; and if any schemes are pending this funding.

(AQW 7540/08)

Ms C Ruane: I have been advised by the Chief Executive of the South-Eastern Education and Library Board that the Board does not plan to arrange summer schemes for children with a specific diagnosis of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in the Strangford constituency.

Beidh scéim samhraidh ann, áfach, do dhaltaí le mórdheacrachtaí foghlama atá ina ndaltaí ag Scoil Speisialta Clifton, Beannchar.

There will be, however, a summer scheme for pupils with severe learning difficulties who are pupils at Clifton Special School, Bangor.

Lisnasharragh High School

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education what plans she has for the Lisnasharragh High School building/site, following the closure of the school.

(AQW 7546/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá curtha in iúl ag Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne an Oirdheiscirt go bhfuil beartaithe acu láithreán Lios na Searrach a choinneáil ar feadh tamaill agus iniúchadh a dhéanamh ar a oiriúnacht d’úsáid eile oideachais.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board have advised that it plans is to retain the Lisnasharragh site for the time being and to explore its suitability for alternative educational use.

Lisnasharragh High School

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education what action she is taking to provide additional support to the secondary schools that will be receiving pupils with special needs requirements from Lisnasharragh High School, following the closure of the school.

(AQW 7547/08)

Ms C Ruane: I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the Belfast and South-Eastern Education and Library Boards that there are currently 7 pupils with special educational needs attending Lisnasharragh High School.

I ngach cás beidh soláthar iomchuí oideachais á shocrú ag an mBord, ar a n-áirítear breis tacaíochta teagaisc, chun freastal ar riachtanais speisialta oideachais na ndaltaí ina suíomh nua scoile.

In all cases the Board will be arranging the appropriate educational provision, including additional teaching support, to meet the pupils’ special educational needs in their new school setting.

School Age Childcare Services

Mr A Maskey asked the Minister of Education what action has been taken by her Department to prevent the closure of School Age Childcare Services which were established under Governmental policy (Children First, 1999), given the fact that Playboard have began informing parents that the service may not be available during the summer holidays and that a number of staff may face redundancy.

(AQW 7554/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aon fhreagracht ar an Roinn Oideachais tacú leis na Seirbhísí Cúraim Leanaí d’Aois Scoile a sholáthraíonn Playboard ná maoiniú a chur ar fáil.

The Department of Education does not have responsibility nor the funding available to fund the School Age Childcare Services provided by Playboard.

Nursery School Places in East Belfast

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education how many nursery school places are currently available in East Belfast.

(AQW 7566/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá 234 áit i naíscoileanna reachtúla agus 468 áit i naí-aonaid atá i gceangal le bunscoileanna reachtúla i mBéal Feirste Thoir. Ina theannta sin, tá 120 áit réamhscoile mhaoinithe san earnáil dheonach/phríobháideach.

There are 234 places in statutory nursery schools and 468 places in nursery units attached to statutory primary schools in East Belfast. In addition, there are 120 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

Nursery School Places in East Belfast

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to change the number of nursery school places available in East Belfast.

(AQW 7567/08)

Ms C Ruane:

In relation to the present position, it is too early to say if the number needs to be increased as the admissions process to pre-school provision is still ongoing.

Under the Open Enrolment in Nursery Schools: Arrangements for September 2008 Admissions, the initial process of admissions was completed on 2^nd May 2008 when parents received a letter notifying them of the setting for which their pre-school child has been accepted.

Parents of pre-school aged children, unplaced in settings of their choice at 2^nd May 2008, were advised where alternative provision is still available.

Education and Library Boards, who operate the admissions process, are now going through the re-allocation of places process for those children who were not placed at 2^nd May 2008. It is expected that this process will be completed by mid to end June.

Déanfaidh BOLBF agus BOLOD monatóireacht leanúnach ar an soláthar réamhscoile d’fhonn aghaidh a thabhairt ar ghá ar bith le háiteanna breise réamhscoile má shainaithnítear a leithéid.

The BELB and the SEELB will continue to monitor pre-school provision in East Belfast in order to address any need for additional pre-school places if identified.

Nursery School Admission Criteria

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education what the criteria is for admission to nursery schools; and what changes to this criteria are planned (i) to reduce long waiting lists; and (ii) to address over demand for places.

(AQW 7568/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá socraithe ag an Roinn go dtabharfadh scoileanna tosaíocht, in ord na tosaíochta seo a leanas do:

The Pre-School Education in Schools (Admissions Criteria) Regulations 1999 state that schools should give priority in their admissions criteria in the following order of priority to:

1. children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who will be aged 4 before 1 September in their final pre-school year
2. children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who will be aged 3 before 1 September in their final pre-school year
3. children not falling within i. or ii. who will be aged 4 before 1 September in their final pre-school year
4. children not falling within i. or ii. who will be aged 3 before 1 September in their final pre-school year.

There are currently no plans for changes to be made to the above regulations.

Additional criteria for admission to particular nursery schools are the responsibility of the board of governors of each school and will reflect the governors’ priorities for admission to their school.

It is too early to say if there will be a shortfall in the number of funded places in pre-school settings in the 2008/09 school year as the admissions process to pre-school provision is still ongoing. Under the Open Enrolment in Nursery Schools: Arrangements for September 2008 Admissions, the initial process of admissions was completed on 2 May 2008 when parents received a letter notifying them of the setting for which their pre-school child has been accepted. Parents of pre-school aged children unplaced in settings of their choice at 2 May 2008 were advised where alternative provision is still available.

Education and library boards, who operate the admissions process, are now going through the re-allocation of places process for those children who were not placed at 2 May 2008. It is expected that this process will be completed by mid to end June.

The education and library boards will continue to monitor pre-school provision in their respective areas in order to address any need for additional pre-school places, if identified.

English as a Second Language

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education how many children born outside the United Kingdom were admitted to nursery schools in East Belfast in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7569/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Ní bhailítear an fhaisnéis atá á iarraidh. Tá líon na bpáistí le Béarla mar theanga bhreise (BTB) curtha ar fáil ina ionad.

The information requested is not collected. Numbers of children with English as an additional language (EAL) has been provided as a proxy.

EAL pupils attending nursery schools in the East Belfast constituency – Last 3 years

Year	No. of EAL pupils
2005/06	6
2006/07	6
2007/08	10

Source: school census

Note: A child with English as an additional language is defined as one for whom English is not their first language and who has significant problems with the English language and requires assistance.

New Nursery and Primary School in Magherafelt

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 1868/08, for an update on the start date for work to commence on a new nursery and primary school in Magherafelt.

(AQW 7575/08)

Ms C Ruane: Planning of the proposed new schools for Magherafelt P.S. and Magherafelt N.S. is currently at pre-tender stage. The NEELB had earlier anticipated that planning approval would have been obtained to allow the scheme to start this spring. However Planning approval has not yet been granted for the construction of the new schools on the proposed new site at Castledawson Road. I understand this has also been delayed following a recent request from the Environment and Heritage Service for further ground investigation reports of the proposed new site. The Board has confirmed that work on this is underway.

Go dtí go ndeonaítear cead pleanála, ní féidir le BOLO sealbhú an láithreáin a chur i gcrích. Agus seo amhlaidh, chuir an Bord in iúl nach féidir san am seo dáta táscach a dtosófar an obair thógála a thabhairt, ach táthar ag súil go gcuirfear tús léi go luath sa bhliain 2009.

Until planning approval has been granted, the NEELB cannot complete the acquisition of the site. In light of this the Board has advised that it is not possible at this stage to give an indicative date for construction work to commence but it is hoped that this should be in early 2009.

Upgrading Primary Schools in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education to outline her strategy to upgrade the schools' estate at primary school level, in the North Down constituency.

(AQW 7577/08)

Ms C Ruane: The planning of the schools estate is initiated in the first instance by the relevant school authorities.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board, as part of its strategic review of the schools estate within its responsibility, identified the need for some rationalisation of primary provision in the Bangor area, though there are no current proposals for this.

The Board is also progressing two major capital projects for primary schools for which funding has been approved by the Department. These are a new 11 classbase school for Towerview P.S. and the amalgamation of Holywood P.S. and Redburn P.S. in a new school building on a new site. Construction work is underway on the new building for Towerview P.S. and is expected to be completed in spring 2009. The project for Holywood / Redburn P.S. is in the early stages of planning.

In addition major capital works at two other schools in the constituency have recently been completed. These are a new school building for Kilmaine P.S. which was completed in February 2006 and a major extension & refurbishment for Ballyholme P.S. which was completed in February 2008.

Faoi láthair níl moltaí ar bith ann bunscoileanna faoi chothabháil i dToghlach Dhúin Thuaidh a uasghrádú.

There are no proposals currently to upgrade any of the maintained primary schools in the North Down constituency.

Post-Primary School Places

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education (i) how many; and (ii) what percentage of, P7 children attending schools in the North Down constituency have not been allocated a place at a post-primary school for the 2008-09 academic year.

(AQW 7582/08)

Ms C Ruane: Bhí 30 leanbh B7, atá comhionann le 3 faoin gcéad, ag freastal ar scoileanna i dToghlach Dhúin Thuaidh nár cionroinneadh ionad dóibh ag iarbhunscoil don bhliain acadúil 2008-09.

There were 30 P7 children, which equates to 3 percent, attending schools in the North Down constituency who have not been allocated a place at a post-primary school for the 2008-09 academic year.

Post-Primary School Figures

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education how many year 8 places there are in each post-primary school in the (i) North Down; (ii) Strangford; and (iii) East Belfast constituencies, for the 2008-09 academic year; and how many of these have been filled for each post-primary school.

(AQW 7583/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá líon na n-ionad do bhliain a hocht atá i ngach iarbhunscoil i dtoghlaigh (i) Dhún Thuaidh; (ii) Loch Cuain; (iii) Bhéal Feirste Thoir, don bhliain acadúil 2008-09; agus cé mhéad díobh atá líonta do gach iarbhunscoil ar fáil sa tábla atá leis seo.

The number of year 8 places there are in each post-primary school in the (i) North Down; (ii) Strangford; and (iii) East Belfast constituencies, for the 2008-09 academic year; and how many of these have been filled for each post-primary school is provided on the attached table.

		(i) Approved Year 8 Places 2008/09	(ii) Filled Year 8 Places 2008/09
North Down
4210031	DONAGHADEE HIGH SCHOOL	76	10
4210296	BANGOR ACADEMY AND 6TH FORM COLLEGE	242	242
4230107	ST COLUMBANUS' COLLEGE	90	90
4250024	PRIORY COLLEGE	94	94
4410097	GLENLOLA COLLEGIATE	157	157
4420015	BANGOR GS	125	125
4420044	SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL	150	150
Strangford
4210012	MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	180	77
4210045	NENDRUM COLLEGE	80	80
4210046	GLASTRY COLLEGE	112	112
4210063	SAINTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL	69	69
4210262	DUNDONALD HIGH SCHOOL	120	37
4230067	ST COLUMBA'S HIGH SCHOOL	104	51
4260295	STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	80	80
4410063	REGENT HOUSE SCHOOL	210	210
		(i) Approved Year 8 Places 2008/09	(ii) Filled Year 8 Places 2008/09
East Belfast
1210014	ASHFIELD GIRLS' HIGH SCHOOL	113	113
1210015	ASHFIELD BOYS' HIGH SCHOOL	110	110
1210266	ORANGEFIELD HIGH SCHOOL	145	31
1410079	GROSVENOR GS	155	155
1420018	BLOOMFIELD COLLEGIATE	100	100
1420020	CAMPBELL COLLEGE	140	140
1420089	STRATHEARN SCHOOL	110	110
4210086	KNOCKBREDA HIGH SCHOOL	120	120
4260255	LAGAN COLLEGE	200	200
4420259	OUR LADY AND ST PATRICK'S COLLEGE	181	181

Donaghadee High School

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education for her assessment of the impact the proposed closure of Donaghadee High School will have on the availability of year 8 places in post-primary schools in the North Down constituency.

(AQW 7584/08)

Ms C Ruane: The two-month consultation period for the receipt of comments on the development proposal for the closure of Donaghadee High School ends on 30 June 2008. The availability of suitable alternative post-primary provision in the area will be examined before deciding on this proposal.

Déanfar cinneadh freisin maidir leis an moladh forbartha ar leith, a foilsíodh ar 26 Feabhra 2008, chun go bhfaighidh an scoil stádas comhtháite rialaithe.

A decision will also be made on the separate development proposal, published on 26 February 2008, for the school to acquire controlled integrated status.

New School in Millburn, Coleraine

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to build a new school in Millburn, Coleraine.

(AQW 7595/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Is bunscoil rialaithe í seo faoi shainchúram Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne an Oirthuaiscirt (BOLOT) agus chuir an Bord in iúl nach bhfuil beartaithe acu Bunscoil Millburn a athsholáthar.

This is a controlled primary school within the remit of the North Eastern Education and Library Board (NEELB) and the Board has advised that it has no plans to replace Millburn Primary School.

Primary School Capacity in Derry/Londonderry

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education what is the pupil capacity for each primary school in the city of Derry/Londonderry, for each sector, in each of the last 5 years.

(AQW 7608/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá an acmhainneacht daltaí do gach bunscoil i gcathair Dhoire, do gach earnáil, i ngach ceann de na 5 bliana seo caite á cur ar fáil sa tábla atá leis seo.

The pupil capacity for each primary school in the city of Derry, for each sector, in each of the last 5 years is provided in the attached table.

		Approved Enrolment Numbers
		2003/2004	2004/2005	2005/2006	2006/2007	2007/2008
2010380	LONDONDERRY MODEL PS	380	380	380	380	380
2010382	EBRINGTON CONTROLLED PS	551	551	551	551	551
2012052	CULMORE PS	77	77	82	82	75
2012227	DRUMAHOE PS	261	261	290	290	290
2012261	NEWBUILDINGS PS	355	355	355	355	355
2016071	GREENHAW PS	254	254	254	254	254
2016124	ASHLEA PS	230	230	230	230	230
2016203	LISNAGELVIN PS	592	592	592	592	592
2016564	FOUNTAIN PS	141	141	141	141	141
2030364	ROSEMOUNT PS	523	523	523	523	523
2030373	NAZARETH HOUSE PS	395	395	395	395	395
2030381	HOLY CHILD PS	404	404	404	404	404
2036032	ST JOHN'S PS	726	726	726	726	726
2036069	ST ANNE'S PS	724	724	724	724	724
2036084	STEELSTOWN VOL MAINTAINED PS	657	657	657	657	657
2036142	ST BRIGID'S PS	603	603	603	603	603
		Approved Enrolment Numbers
		2003/2004	2004/2005	2005/2006	2006/2007	2007/2008
2036143	ST OLIVER PLUNKETT PS	273	273	273	273	273
2036227	ST PAULS PS, SLIEVEMORE	527	527	527	527	527
2036247	ST COLUMBA'S PS	175	175	175	175	175
2036259	TRENCH ROAD PS	553	553	553	553	553
2036288	GOOD SHEPHERD PS AND NURSERY SCHOOL	408	408	408	408	408
2036461	ST THERESA'S PS, LENAMORE	487	487	487	487	487
2036465	CHAPEL ROAD PS	276	276	276	276	276
2036472	HOLY FAMILY PS	640	640	640	640	640
2036473	ST EITHNE'S PS	552	552	552	552	552
2036475	LONGTOWER PS	605	605	605	605	605
2036533	HOLLYBUSH PS	396	396	396	396	396
2036555	ST EUGENE'S PS	473	473	473	473	261
2036574	BUNSCOIL CHOLMCILLE	243	243	243	196	196
2036581	ST PATRICKS PS	940	930	930	930	930
2046646	GAELSCOIL EADAIN MHOIR	116	116	145	145	145
2052035	GROARTY INTEGRATED PS	63	63	63	63	63
2066558	OAKGROVE INTEGRATED PS	400	400	400	400	400

Controlled School Places in North Down

Mr Cree asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to ensure there is adequate provision of controlled school places in the North Down constituency.

(AQW 7635/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Chuir sonraí an Daonaireamh Scoile do Dheireadh Fómhair 2007 in iúl go bhfuil farasbarr acmhainne laistigh de scoileanna rialaithe i dToghlach Dhúin Thuaidh.

The School Census data for October 2007 indicated that there is surplus capacity within controlled schools in the North Down Constituency.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board have advised that they intend to address over provision through rationalisation and assessments of capacity where new school buildings are being planned.

After-Schools Programmes

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Education how much funding is available in the Mid-Ulster constituency for after schools programmes.

(AQW 7642/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Ní bhailíonn an Roinn aon eolas ar shainimeachtaí iarscoile a chuireann scoileanna aonair ar fáil.

The Department does not collect information on specific after school activities offered by individual schools.

The vast majority of grant-aided schools in the north of Ireland have been offering after school programmes for many years and do so through a combination of voluntary effort, school’s delegated budgets and parental contributions.

In addition the Extended Schools programme provides a recognised funding stream for the most socially disadvantaged schools and these resources can be used for after school activities. Details of Extended Schools in the Mid-Ulster constituency are attached.

Extended Schools in the Mid Ulster Constituency
DENI Ref	School name	Eligible/Not Eligible	Ward	2006/07	2007/08	2008/09
3012267	MAGHERAFELT CONTROLLED PS	No Longer Eligible	TOWN PARKS EAST	30,475	30,245	3,702
3036039	ST MARY'S PS (GLENVIEW)	New School	LOWER GLENSHANE	0	0	17,584
3036562	HOLY FAMILY PS	No Longer Eligible	GLEBE (MAGHERAFELT)	34,949	35,018	4,451
3210090	MAGHERA HIGH SCHOOL	Eligible	MAGHERA	18,475	17,950	12,068
5012615	BALLYTREA PS	Eligible	STEWARTSTOWN	14,605	14,720	9,884
5012632	DONAGHMORE PS	New School	DONAGHMORE (DUNGANNON)	0	0	7,112
5012643	STEWARTSTOWN PS	New School	STEWARTSTOWN	0	0	6,160
5012649	COAGH PS	No Longer Eligible	COAGH	11,385	10,695	1,449
5016200	QUEEN ELIZABETH II (POMEROY) PS	Eligible	POMEROY	6,800	5,900	5,936
5032692	ST MARY'S PS	Eligible	STEWARTSTOWN	15,813	16,158	10,304
5032699	ST MARY'S PS	Eligible	DUNNAMORE	20,815	20,384	12,614
5032703	ST PETER'S PS	Eligible	ARDBOE	23,230	22,195	13,328
5032713	DERRYCHRIN PS	Eligible	ARDBOE	16,071	15,381	10,094
5032717	ST PATRICK'S PS	New School	KILLYCOLPY	0	0	12,824
5036033	ST JOSEPH'S PS	New School	ALTMORE	0	0	13,118
5036047	ST PATRICK'S PS	No Longer Eligible	WASHING BAY	25,070	24,610	2,990
5036057	ST MALACHY'S PS	No Longer Eligible	MONEYMORE	7,705	7,935	1,254
5036108	ST JOSEPH'S PS	Eligible	DUNNAMORE	11,615	11,730	8,736
5036118	ST MARY'S PS	Eligible	POMEROY	22,626	21,505	12,824
5036590	PRIMATE DIXON PS	Eligible	COALISLAND WEST AND NEWMILLS	34,420	34,397	20,944
5046637	GAELSCOIL UI NEILL	Buffer School	COALISLAND NORTH	13,225	13,300	5,173
5230192	ST JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL	Eligible	COALISLAND WEST AND NEWMILLS	34,880	33,730	20,706
			Total
Source:I school census 2007/08
NB The buffer zone – due to the change in eligibility criteria some previously funded schools may slip below the qualifying criteria one year and then qualify the next. Therefore a "buffer zone" has been created to allow previously funded schools falling a few percentage points below the threshold to be funded for 2 years at a reduced amount, (50%) if eligibility has not been re-established after 2 years, these schools will exit the programme.

Nursery School Places in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to change the number of nursery school places available in North Down parliamentary constituency.

(AQW 7674/08)

Ms C Ruane:

In relation to the present position, it is too early to say if the number needs to be revised as the admissions process to pre-school provision is still ongoing.

Under the Open Enrolment in Nursery Schools: Arrangements for September 2008 Admissions, the initial process of admissions was completed on 2^nd May 2008 when parents received a letter notifying them of the setting for which their pre-school child has been accepted.

Parents of pre-school aged children, unplaced in settings of their choice at 2^nd May 2008, were advised where alternative provision is still available.

Education and Library Boards, who operate the admissions process, are now going through the re-allocation of places process for those children who were not placed at 2^nd May 2008. It is expected that this process will be completed by mid to end June.

Déanfaidh BOLOD monatóireacht leanunach ar an soláthar réamhscoile i dtoghlach parlaiminteach Dhúin Thuaidh d’fhonn aghaidh a thabhairt ar ghá ar bith le háiteanna breise réamhscoile má shainaithnítear a leithéid.

The SEELB will continue to monitor pre-school provision in the North Down parliamentary constituency in order to address any need for additional pre-school places if identified.

Nursery School Places in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education how many nursery school places are currently available in North Down parliamentary constituency.

(AQW 7675/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá 182 áit i naíscoileanna reachtúla agus 286 áit i naí-aonaid atá i gceangal le bunscoileanna reachtúla i dtoghlach parlaiminteach Dhúin Thuaidh. Ina theannta sin, tá 291 áit réamhscoile mhaoinithe san earnáil dheonach/phríobháideach.

There are 182 places in statutory nursery schools and 286 places in nursery units attached to statutory primary schools in the North Down parliamentary constituency. In addition, there are 291 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

Unauthorised Absences in Schools

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education how many cases of unauthorised absence by pupils for 10 or more consecutive school days occurred in each of the last 5 years, broken down by Education and Library Board area.

(AQW 7693/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ní bhailíonn an Roinn an t-eolas atá á iarraidh.

The Department does not currently collect the information sought.

Since September 2006, a new standardised system of recording absences has been used in schools, following an update of the attendance module of the Classroom 2000 (C2K) system. This enables schools to record pupils’ absences, the reasons for the absence and whether the absence is authorised or unauthorised.

The Department had planned to collect this new data with the annual school census in October 2007. However additional software is required to facilitate the transfer of detailed, yet anonymised, attendance data to the Department for analysis. This software has been commissioned and the intention is to collect data for the 2006/07 and 2007/08 school years during the census in October 2008.

A separate exercise took place earlier this year to collect detailed attendance data from all post-primary schools and this data was recently published on the Department’s website. This information and the data from both primary and post-primary schools that will be collected in October 2008 will be used to inform the setting of targets on pupil attendance. Once targets have been developed, the Department will issue guidance to schools on how best to promote regular attendance and on approaches to early and effective intervention.

The Department does collect information from the education and library boards about pupils referred due to concerns around non-attendance. This information is collected at the end of each school year and is published on the Department’s website. The Education and Welfare Service will receive a referral from a school when a pupil’s attendance pattern causes concern and each referral will be dealt with according to the individual circumstances.

Vacant Places in Irish Medium Schools

Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education how many vacant school places there are currently in Irish Medium schools.

(AQW 7750/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Faoi láthair tá 768 áit fholamh i scoileanna Gaeilge.

There are currently 768 vacant places in Irish Medium schools.

Saint Cecilia's College in Derry/Londonderry

Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of progress on the delivery of a new school for Saint Cecilia's College in Derry/Londonderry; and (ii) to detail any delays which have occurred.

(AQW 7766/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá sé beartaithe go bhfaighfear na foirgnimh nua scoile do Choláiste N. Síle agus do Choláiste N. Muire trí chomhpháirtíocht idir an earnáil phoiblí agus an earnáil phríobháideach.

It is planned that new school buildings for St Cecilia’s College and for St Mary’s College will be procured through a public private partnership. The Department has worked closely with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools and the Project Manager to address a number of issues which have arisen during the scrutiny of the Full Business Case (FBC) for the project. This has taken longer than anticipated due to the need to take account of revised value for money guidance and the requirement for further work to be carried out on the FBC . A final version of the FBC was submitted to the department on 10 April. The work will be completed very shortly and the business case will then be forwarded to the Department of Finance and Personnel for approval.

Saint Mary's College in Derry/Londonderry

Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of progress on the planned new school for Saint Mary's College in Derry/Londonderry; and (ii) to detail any delays which have occurred.

(AQW 7768/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá sé beartaithe go bhfaighfear na foirgnimh nua scoile do Choláiste N. Síle agus do Choláiste N. Muire trí chomhpháirtíocht idir an earnáil phoiblí agus an earnáil phríobháideach.

It is planned that new school buildings for St Cecilia’s College and for St Mary’s College will be procured through a public private partnership. The Department has worked closely with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools and the Project Manager to address a number of issues which have arisen during the scrutiny of the Full Business Case (FBC) for the project. This has taken longer than anticipated due to the need to take account of revised value for money guidance and the requirement for further work to be carried out on the FBC . A final version of the FBC was submitted to the department on 10 April. The work will be completed very shortly and the business case will then be forwarded to the Department of Finance and Personnel for approval.

Donaghadee High School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education for her assessment of the impact that the possible closure of Donaghadee High School will have on the over subscription of pupil enrolments in the North Down constituency.

(AQW 7785/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá fad curtha go dtí 30 Meitheamh leis an gcomhairliúchán ar an Togra Forbartha le hArdscoil Dhomhnach Daoi a dhúnadh. Agus an cinneadh á dhéanamh agam, beidh na fachtóirí ábhartha á chur san áireamh agam, ina theannta sin, an leibhéal soláthar iarbhunoideachais sa cheantar.

The consultation on the Development Proposal to allow for the closure of Donaghadee High School will extends until 30 June. In making my decision on the proposal I will take all relevant factors into account including the level of post-primary provision in the area.

Glastry College

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Glastry College through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7796/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Nendrum College

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Nendrum College through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7798/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Strangford College

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Strangford College through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7806/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Regent House School

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Regent House School through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7807/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Movilla High School

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Movilla High School through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and to state the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7827/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Bangor Academy

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Bangor Academy through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and to state the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7828/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Bangor Grammar School

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many pupils applied for entrance to Bangor Grammar through the Transfer Scheme, and of those pupils, how many were (i) accepted; and (ii) refused; and to state the Transfer Test Grades of those in both categories.

(AQW 7829/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Sa tábla thíos, liostáiltear líon na n-iarratas ar áiteanna i ngach ceann de na scoileanna atá ainmnithe sa tsraith seo ceisteanna, mar aon le líon na n-iarratas briste síos de réir an ghráid a fuarthas sa teist aistrithe. Is féidir an grád a fuair iarratasóirí sa teist aistrithe a oibriú amach ón eolas sin.

The number of applications for places at each of the schools named in this series of questions is listed in the table below, along with the number of admissions broken down by transfer test grade. The transfer test grade obtained by applicants can be deduced from this.

2008/09	Grade A	Grade B1	Grade B2	Grade C1	Grade C2	Grade D	Other	Total
	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm	App/Adm
GLASTRY COLLEGE	2/2	0/0	5/5	13/12	19/15	44/38	40/40	123/112
NENDRUM COLLEGE	0/0	6/5	1/0	13/6	15/12	53/37	29/20	117/80
STRANGFORD INTEGRATED COLLEGE	1/0	1/0	7/2	17/6	23/11	60/26	50/35	159/80
REGENT HOUSE	183/183	32/23	16/2	12/0	5/0	9/1	1/1	258/210
MOVILLA HIGH SCHOOL	0/0	0/0	2/2	7/7	7/7	28/28	39/39	83/83
BANGOR ACADEMY & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE	0/0	1/0	13/13	35/22	37/29	133/111	81/67	300/242
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL	75/75	24/24	19/19	22/2	17/0	12/2	4/3	173/125

Substitute Teachers

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education how many teachers have retired from full-time teaching but are engaged or have been engaged in substitute teaching over the 2007-08 academic year.

(AQW 7844/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

Numbers of teachers retired from full-time teaching but engaged or have been engaged in substitute teaching over the 2007-08 academic year.

Retirement Type	Number of Re-Employments
Age	330
Actuarially Reduced	12
Efficient Discharge	61
Redundancy	1,518
TOTAL NUMBER OF RE-EMPLOYMENTS	1,921

Pre-School Education Advisory Group Funding

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education why playgroups lose Pre-School Education Advisory Group (PEAG) funding when a child leaves to attend reception/primary school during the year.

(AQW 7857/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Faoin Chlár um Fhorbairt na Réamhscolaíochta (PSEEP), meallann naíonraí deonacha méid áirithe in aghaidh gach áit mhaoinithe. Má fhágann páiste naíonra deonach, cuirtear stop leis an mhaoiniú a mheallann an páiste sin, ar an ábhar nach bhfuil sé/sí ag freastal níos mó.

Under the Pre-School Education Expansion Programme (PSEEP), voluntary pre-school settings attract an amount per funded place. If a child leaves a voluntary pre-school setting, the funding that child attracts stops, as they are no longer in attendance.

Zero Rated Primary Schools

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education what is the position of Education and Library Boards in relation to primary schools who are zero rated but are still enrolling pre-school children into reception classes.

(AQW 7860/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Ní thugtar nialas mar ráta do pháistí i ranganna fáiltithe nó do ghrúpaí i mbunscoileanna maidir le maoiniú faoi Scéim Maoinithe na Roinne i gcomhair Bainistíocht Áitiúil ar Scoileanna.

Children in reception classes or groups in primary schools are not zero-rated for funding purposes under the Department’s Common Funding Scheme for Local Management of Schools.

Independent Schools Admissions Criteria

Mr Moutray asked the Minister of Education what measures her Department can take to prevent schools that are operating the Dickson Plan for education from pressing ahead with independent schools admissions criteria, including an academic selective element, in the absence of an agreed way forward on a schools transfer system.

(AQW 7867/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Mura rialaítear socruithe aistrithe don bhliain 2010 agus ina diaidh féachfaidh an Roinn Oideachais le hord agus soiléireacht a thabhairt d'iontrálacha scoileanna trí threoir a thabhairt.

If transfer arrangements for 2010 and beyond are not regulated, the Department of Education will seek to bring order and clarity to school admissions through guidance. This guidance cannot and will not seek to prevent schools from continuing some form of academically selective element within their admissions processes, but it will make clear the issues and risks involved in the operation of independently administered academic selection.

Academic Selection

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Education what changes have been made to the legislative position regarding the legality of (a) academic selection; and (b) the selective elements of the Craigavon based Dickson Plan for education, from that inherited at the restoration of devolution.

(AQW 7869/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Ní dhearnadh aon athruithe ar an reachtaíocht iomchuí ó athbhunaíodh an Tionól.

No changes have been made to the relevant legislation since the restoration of devolution.

Gender of Children Sitting the 11 Plus Exam

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education how many children, broken down by gender, have taken the eleven plus exam in the South Eastern Education and Library Board and Belfast Education and Library Board areas in each of the last five years.

(AQW 7876/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached tables.

Transfer test results for the north of Ireland by gender and academic year 2003/04 to 2007/08

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Number of boys achieving Grade A	3,145	2,901	3,036	2,849	2,901
Number of boys achieving Grade B1	674	689	635	574	645
Number of boys achieving Grade B2	661	655	643	675	640
Number of boys achieving Grade C1	625	600	577	598	649
Number of boys achieving Grade C2	566	583	597	567	641
Number of boys achieving Grade D	1,955	1,952	2,014	2,116	1,942
Total number of boys sitting test	7,626	7,380	7,502	7,379	7,418
Number of girls achieving Grade A	3,019	2,992	3,009	2,817	3,236
Number of girls achieving Grade B1	772	722	674	622	716
Number of girls achieving Grade B2	686	728	730	661	647
Number of girls achieving Grade C1	631	661	606	564	692
Number of girls achieving Grade C2	664	656	674	610	640
Number of girls achieving Grade D	2,293	2,211	2,088	2,271	1,983
Total number of girls sitting test	8,065	7,970	7,781	7,545	7,914
Total number achieving Grade A	6,164	5,893	6,045	5,666	6,137
Total number achieving Grade B1	1,446	1,411	1,309	1,196	1,361
Total number achieving Grade B2	1,347	1,383	1,373	1,336	1,287
Total number achieving Grade C1	1,256	1,261	1,183	1,162	1,341
Total number achieving Grade C2	1,230	1,239	1,271	1,177	1,281
Total number achieving Grade D	4,248	4,163	4,102	4,387	3,925
Total number sitting test	15,691	15,350	15,283	14,924	15,332

Transfer test results for schools in the Belfast Education & Library Board by gender and academic year 2003/04 to 2007/08

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Number of boys achieving Grade A	464	407	412	422	424
Number of boys achieving Grade B1	92	89	78	80	94
Number of boys achieving Grade B2	96	100	82	97	84
Number of boys achieving Grade C1	107	99	75	81	109
Number of boys achieving Grade C2	93	102	87	82	80
Number of boys achieving Grade D	374	362	379	353	379
Total number of boys sitting test	1,226	1,159	1,113	1,115	1,170
Number of girls achieving Grade A	485	468	432	397	465
Number of girls achieving Grade B1	124	107	105	80	97
Number of girls achieving Grade B2	82	120	98	84	88
Number of girls achieving Grade C1	89	95	96	79	102
Number of girls achieving Grade C2	106	98	113	97	118
Number of girls achieving Grade D	514	454	417	429	392
Total number of girls sitting test	1,400	1,342	1,261	1,166	1,262
Total number achieving Grade A	949	875	844	819	889
Total number achieving Grade B1	216	196	183	160	191
Total number achieving Grade B2	178	220	180	181	172
Total number achieving Grade C1	196	194	171	160	211
Total number achieving Grade C2	199	200	200	179	198
Total number achieving Grade D	888	816	796	782	771
Total number sitting test	2,626	2,501	2,374	2,281	2,432

Transfer test results for schools in the South Eastern Education & Library Board by gender and academic year 2003/04 to 2007/08

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Number of boys achieving Grade A	809	785	763	757	790
Number of boys achieving Grade B1	162	161	144	146	165
Number of boys achieving Grade B2	147	165	154	161	130
Number of boys achieving Grade C1	155	127	126	151	138
Number of boys achieving Grade C2	123	126	129	123	160
Number of boys achieving Grade D	467	458	491	481	454
Total number of boys sitting test	1,863	1,822	1,807	1,819	1,837
Number of girls achieving Grade A	766	727	770	753	855
Number of girls achieving Grade B1	182	183	154	134	177
Number of girls achieving Grade B2	151	180	170	176	143
Number of girls achieving Grade C1	158	140	139	145	159
Number of girls achieving Grade C2	151	156	159	140	116
Number of girls achieving Grade D	504	512	503	523	450
Total number of girls sitting test	1,912	1,898	1,895	1,871	1,900
Total number achieving Grade A	1,575	1,512	1,533	1,510	1,645
Total number achieving Grade B1	344	344	298	280	342
Total number achieving Grade B2	298	345	324	337	273
Total number achieving Grade C1	313	267	265	296	297
Total number achieving Grade C2	274	282	288	263	276
Total number achieving Grade D	971	970	994	1,004	904
Total number sitting test	3,775	3,720	3,702	3,690	3,737

Gender of Children Sitting the 11 Plus Exam

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education how many children, broken down by gender, have received an A, B1, B2, C1 or C2 grade, in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) the South Eastern Education and Library Board and Belfast Education and Library Board areas.

(AQW 7878/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached tables.

Transfer test results for Northern Ireland by gender and academic year 2003/04 to 2007/08

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Number of boys achieving Grade A	3,145	2,901	3,036	2,849	2,901
Number of boys achieving Grade B1	674	689	635	574	645
Number of boys achieving Grade B2	661	655	643	675	640
Number of boys achieving Grade C1	625	600	577	598	649
Number of boys achieving Grade C2	566	583	597	567	641
Number of boys achieving Grade D	1,955	1,952	2,014	2,116	1,942
Total number of boys sitting test	7,626	7,380	7,502	7,379	7,418
Number of girls achieving Grade A	3,019	2,992	3,009	2,817	3,236
Number of girls achieving Grade B1	772	722	674	622	716
Number of girls achieving Grade B2	686	728	730	661	647
Number of girls achieving Grade C1	631	661	606	564	692
Number of girls achieving Grade C2	664	656	674	610	640
Number of girls achieving Grade D	2,293	2,211	2,088	2,271	1,983
Total number of girls sitting test	8,065	7,970	7,781	7,545	7,914
Total number achieving Grade A	6,164	5,893	6,045	5,666	6,137
Total number achieving Grade B1	1,446	1,411	1,309	1,196	1,361
Total number achieving Grade B2	1,347	1,383	1,373	1,336	1,287
Total number achieving Grade C1	1,256	1,261	1,183	1,162	1,341
Total number achieving Grade C2	1,230	1,239	1,271	1,177	1,281
Total number achieving Grade D	4,248	4,163	4,102	4,387	3,925
Total number sitting test	15,691	15,350	15,283	14,924	15,332

Transfer test results for schools in the Belfast Education & Library Board by gender and academic year 2003/04 to 2007/08

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Number of boys achieving Grade A	464	407	412	422	424
Number of boys achieving Grade B1	92	89	78	80	94
Number of boys achieving Grade B2	96	100	82	97	84
Number of boys achieving Grade C1	107	99	75	81	109
Number of boys achieving Grade C2	93	102	87	82	80
Number of boys achieving Grade D	374	362	379	353	379
Total number of boys sitting test	1,226	1,159	1,113	1,115	1,170
Number of girls achieving Grade A	485	468	432	397	465
Number of girls achieving Grade B1	124	107	105	80	97
Number of girls achieving Grade B2	82	120	98	84	88
Number of girls achieving Grade C1	89	95	96	79	102
Number of girls achieving Grade C2	106	98	113	97	118
Number of girls achieving Grade D	514	454	417	429	392
Total number of girls sitting test	1,400	1,342	1,261	1,166	1,262
Total number achieving Grade A	949	875	844	819	889
Total number achieving Grade B1	216	196	183	160	191
Total number achieving Grade B2	178	220	180	181	172
Total number achieving Grade C1	196	194	171	160	211
Total number achieving Grade C2	199	200	200	179	198
Total number achieving Grade D	888	816	796	782	771
Total number sitting test	2,626	2,501	2,374	2,281	2,432

Transfer test results for schools in the South Eastern Education & Library Board by gender and academic year 2003/04 to 2007/08

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Number of boys achieving Grade A	809	785	763	757	790
Number of boys achieving Grade B1	162	161	144	146	165
Number of boys achieving Grade B2	147	165	154	161	130
Number of boys achieving Grade C1	155	127	126	151	138
Number of boys achieving Grade C2	123	126	129	123	160
Number of boys achieving Grade D	467	458	491	481	454
Total number of boys sitting test	1,863	1,822	1,807	1,819	1,837
Number of girls achieving Grade A	766	727	770	753	855
Number of girls achieving Grade B1	182	183	154	134	177
Number of girls achieving Grade B2	151	180	170	176	143
Number of girls achieving Grade C1	158	140	139	145	159
Number of girls achieving Grade C2	151	156	159	140	116
Number of girls achieving Grade D	504	512	503	523	450
Total number of girls sitting test	1,912	1,898	1,895	1,871	1,900
Total number achieving Grade A	1,575	1,512	1,533	1,510	1,645
Total number achieving Grade B1	344	344	298	280	342
Total number achieving Grade B2	298	345	324	337	273
Total number achieving Grade C1	313	267	265	296	297
Total number achieving Grade C2	274	282	288	263	276
Total number achieving Grade D	971	970	994	1,004	904
Total number sitting test	3,775	3,720	3,702	3,690	3,737

Groomsport Primary School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Groomsport Primary School.

(AQW 7967/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá Bunscoil Phort an Ghiolla Ghruama druidte ó bhí 31 Lúnasa 2007 ann.

Groomsport Primary School closed with effect from 31 August 2007.

English as a Second Language

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education how many school pupils do not have English or Irish as a first language; and what is the first language of these pupils, broken down by Education and Library Board area.

(AQW 7989/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

Children with English as an additional language by Education and Library Board 2007/08

Home Language	Belfast	Western	North Eastern	South Eastern	Southern	Total
Arabic	23	9	#	21	*	63
Bengali	22	0	*	36	#	67
Cantonese	171	30	70	109	85	465
Chinese	*	*	*	5	*	13
Czech	0	*	5	*	*	12
Dutch	*	*	5	*	8	19
Filipino	127	31	47	67	42	314
French	*	*	*	*	5	13
German	7	7	5	16	5	40
Greek	*	*	*	*	0	9
Gujarati	0	*	*	0	#	11
Hindi	28	6	35	18	21	108
Hungarian	*	22	*	*	14	47
Indian (not specified)	*	7	7	8	*	30
Italian	*	0	*	12	*	19
Japanese	0	0	*	*	0	5
Latvian	0	18	8	8	78	112
Lithuanian	9	51	44	53	490	647
Malaysian	14	11	10	11	12	58
Mandarin	29	8	9	12	14	72
Malayalam	*	6	*	12	8	33
Punjabi	22	#	16	*	8	55
Pashto	0	0	*	*	*	5
Polish	300	288	364	155	743	1,850
Portuguese	10	*	23	*	371	409
Romanian	17	*	8	*	7	38
Russian	#	*	9	6	32	55
Slovakian	*	#	19	0	28	63
Spanish	6	#	*	15	10	39
Tagalog	24	*	0	8	*	37
Thai	*	*	0	*	*	9
Turkish	*	*	*	*	*	11
Urdu	16	*	11	#	21	60
Other languages	278	119	165	158	154	874
Total	1,136	668	896	770	2,192	5,662

Source: school census

Note:

1. Children with English as an additional language are those children for whom English is not their first language and who have difficulty with English and require support.
2. ‘*’ relates to fewer than 5 pupils.
3. ‘#’ means figure >= 5 has been treated under rules of disclosure.

Strangford Integrated College

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education the religious breakdown for new pupils attending Strangford Integrated College in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 8007/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table:

Religion of Year 8 Pupils attending Strangford Integrated College 2005/06 – 2007/08

Pupil Religion	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Protestant	61	29	39
Catholic	19	20	29
Other religions/none/not known	5	41	16
Total Year 8 enrolment	85	90	84

Source: school census

Strangford Integrated College

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education the religious breakdown of pupils attending Strangford Integrated College.

(AQW 8008/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table:

Pupil Religion	Number of Pupils
Protestant	258
Catholic	125
Other religions/none/not known	120
Total enrolment	503

Source: school census 2007/08

Streaming School Pupils

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what secondary schools 'stream' pupils according to ability at Year 8, and what criteria is this 'streaming' based on, broken down by Area Board.

(AQW 8038/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Is ceist í do gach scoil aonair cinneadh ar an dóigh is fearr lena ranganna a eagrú le riar do riachtanais oideachais a ndaltaí. Ní choinnítear taifid de chinntí na scoileanna.

It is a matter for individual schools to decide how to best organise their classes to meet their pupil’s educational needs. No records are kept of the school decisions.

Substitute Teacher Register

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education how many teachers are on the Substitute Teachers' Register, broken down by Education and Library Board area.

(AQW 8039/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Is é 7,116 líon na múinteoirí atá cláraithe faoi láthair ar Chlár Múinteoirí Ionaid Thuaisceart Éireann (CMITÉ). Ní choinnítear an t-eolas seo, áfach, i bhformáid ná de réir cheantar Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne agus bheadh costas díréireach ar aon bheart lena leithéid de mhiondealú a sholáthar.

The number of teachers currently registered on the Substitute Teacher Register (NISTR) is 7,116. However, this information is not held or maintained in Education & Library Board area or format and any exercise to provide such a breakdown would result in disproportionate cost.

St Columbanus Integrated College

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education for the religious breakdown of pupils attending St Columbanus Integrated College.

(AQW 8074/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Níl Coláiste N. Colmcille ainmnithe mar scoil imeasctha. Tá sonraí ar chreideamh na ndaltaí atá ag freastal ar an scoil i 2007/08 thíos:

St. Columbanus’ College is not designated as an integrated school. The religion of pupils attending the school in 2007/08 is detailed below:

Pupil Religion	Number of Pupils
Protestant	185
Catholic	248
Other religions/none/not known	112
Total enrolment	545

Source: school census.

Funding Gap in the Primary and Post Primary Sectors

Mr Armstrong asked the Minister of Education to explain the rationale for the funding gap between the primary and post-primary sectors.

(AQO 3952/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá Maoiniú Coiteann do scoileanna deartha le roinnt chothrom trédhearcach cistí a bhaint amach i ngach scoil de réir a riachtanais choibhneasta.

Common Funding for schools is designed to achieve an equitable and transparent division of funds across all schools based on their relative level of need.

The common funding formula is made up of a range of factors developed to reflect the main costs associated with the running of a school and the main funding factor within the formula, the Age Weighted Pupil Unit (AWPU) factor, is driven by pupil numbers.

Pupil numbers are weighted in order to reflect the differing costs to each phase of education in delivering the school curriculum and the differential in per-capita funding between a primary pupil and a post-primary pupil arises largely from this and reflects the greater cost demands which arise for post-primary schools in delivery of the curriculum.

In the primary sector, the arrangements provide for a pupil centred approach with pupils normally taught in one class for all their subjects. The nature of the post-primary curriculum, its mode of delivery and the extent of support arrangements, results in additional cost in areas such as teaching, equipment and resource materials, specialist facilities and examination fees.

In order to reflect this within the funding formula, AWPU weightings are higher for post-primary pupils and this is the main reason for the differential in the amount of per-pupil funding allocated on average to a primary school as compared to a post-primary school.

This is a complex issue, but I am making more funding available, both within and outside the current formula arrangements.

I have taken on board the views of primary schools and others during the most recent consultation on LMS funding issues, and the change in the primary pupil AWPU weighting from 1.02 to 1.04 in 2008/09 compared to 2007/08, placed over £3.7m more into primary schools.

Within the £20.4m uplift to schools budgets for 2008/09 compared to 2007/08, some £12.67m was directed to primary schools, representing an overall cash uplift of over 3% and over 4% per pupil. For 2008/09, the average per pupil increase for primary schools of £102 per pupil (4%) is higher than the average per pupil increase for post-primary schools. I have also signalled my intentions to increase further the primary AWPU weighting over the next two years of this budget period.

Over the next three years, I have been able to secure additional funding of almost £12 million to help primary school teaching principals and a further £32 million to support primary schools with the delivery of the Foundation Stage of the revised curriculum.

Alternative Education Projects

Ms J McCann asked the Minister of Education for her assessment of the benefits of Alternative Education Projects; and to give an assurance that Alternative Education providers will continue to be resourced to deliver their services to young people with complex needs.

(AQO 4047/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Is sa scoil is fearr páistí agus daoine óga a theagasc. Mar sin féin, tá a fhios agam nach bhfóireann socrúchán scoile do gach duine óg agus gur fearr mar sin socrú eile de chineál éigin a chur ar fáil dóibh le riar ar a riachtanais oideachais agus ar a gcuid riachtanas eile.

The best place for children and young people to be educated is at school. I do, recognise however that, for some young people a school placement cannot be sustained and that some form of alternative education provision is necessary to meet their educational and other needs. Responsibility for making provision for these young people rests with the relevant Education and Library Board.

The arrangements for alternative education provision vary across Boards but the majority of places are in settings organised and managed by the Boards. In the Greater Belfast area, there are a number of alternative education projects organised by the community sector.

The Education and Training Inspectorate reports on all forms of alternative education provision – statutory and community based - are generally satisfactory, in terms of the engagement of the young people with beneficial learning and the commitment of staff to meeting their needs. The reports do, however, identify areas for improvement such as greater breadth of curriculum on offer and consistency across Board areas around the criteria for referral, placement and monitoring the actual outcomes for each young person.

My Department does not directly fund alternative education projects. Funding is provided to the Education and Library Boards for alternative education and it is for them to decide how this can be used to best meet the needs of the young people in their area. In meeting the needs of pupils in their area, Boards can consider entering into partnership arrangements with the community sector or to purchase places in existing community based provision.

My Department has been undertaking a review of alternative education. Work is currently in hand to develop a model of provision which will apply across all Board areas and which will be consistent with other emerging policy proposals, in particular the proposals following the review of special educational needs and school improvement. During the course of the Review, my officials and I have met with staff from the statutory and community based sectors. I am aware of their concerns and pay tribute to them for their ongoing high levels of commitment, dedication and support to our most marginalised young people. Our review of alternative education provision has looked at all of the issues and I hope to be in a position to publish our proposals for public consultation in the autumn.

St Colman's Primary School in Newry

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Education what action she is taking to ensure that St Colman's Primary School, Newry, has adequate accommodation for the numbers of pupils in the school.

(AQO 4012/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Fuair mo Roinn iarratas ar chóiríocht bhreise i mí Aibreáin dhá mhíle a seacht.

A request for additional accommodation was received in my department in April 2007. The assessment made at that time was that there was sufficient accommodation for the current enrolment though a deficiency in special needs provision. The department has approved special needs provision for the school. It is anticipated that the projected intake for September 2008 should be able to be accommodated at the school but I have arranged for departmental officials to visit the school to undertake an assessment of the provision. I visited the school recently and was very impressed by the commitment and dedication of the teachers and pupils.

Primary Languages Programme

Mr Cobain asked the Minister of Education if she intends to increase the number of languages offered in the primary languages programme in the forthcoming academic year.

(AQO 3950/08)

Ms C Ruane: Beidh mé ag tabhairt isteach Clár na bPríomh-theangacha le tacaíocht a thabhairt do na bunscoileanna sin ar mian leo Spáinnis nó Gaeilge a chur ar fáil.

I am introducing the Primary Languages Programme this school year to support those primary schools who wish to offer Spanish or Irish. Spanish is a key global language and Irish is the native language of Ireland and an official European language. There has been a high level of interest in the programme and tutors are now beginning to work in schools. It is important that we get these schools off to a good start this school year and into the new school year.

As part of the Budget 2007 outcome, I have secured funding to allow for continuation and expansion of the Programme over the period 2008-09 to 2010-11 and in the coming months will be taking decisions on the expansion of the programme in the next school year, including any support for additional languages. I am also expecting recommendations shortly on a languages strategy for the North from the joint University of Ulster-Queen’s University Belfast Subject Centre for Languages, Linguistics and Area Studies. This will include recommendations on introducing languages in primary schools and it will inform thinking on the expansion of the Languages Programme generally in the future.

Asbestos in School Buildings

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Education what action she has taken in relation to the identification and removal of asbestos building materials from the school estate.

(AQO 4039/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Chríochnaigh na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne suirbhéanna ar scoileanna le suíomh, cineál agus staid na n-ábhar sin a bhfuil aispeist iontu a chinntiú.

Education and Library Boards have completed surveys of schools to determine the location, type and condition of asbestos containing materials. The risk posed by these materials was also assessed and, where it was considered necessary they have been removed.

Any asbestos containing materials that remain do not pose a sufficient risk to require immediate removal. Boards and other school authorities are responsible for managing asbestos safely and a rolling programme of surveys will continue.

Statements of Special Educational Needs

Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Education how many pupils are currently awaiting a statement of special educational need.

(AQO 4020/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Thug Príomhfheidhmeannaigh na mbord oideachais agus leabharlainne eolas dom faoin líon daltaí a ndearnadh measúnú reachtúil ar a riachtanais speisialta oideachais, faoin líon a measann na Boird ráiteas riachtanas speisialta oideachais a bheith de dhíth orthu, agus faoin líon atá ag fanacht lena ráiteas a bheith réidh. Seo leanas an líon:

I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the education and library boards that the number of pupils who have undergone a statutory assessment of their special educational needs, are considered by the Boards to require a statement of special educational needs, and who are currently awaiting completion of their statement is as follows:-

1. Belfast Education and Library Board - 26

2. North-Eastern Education and Library Board - 13

3. South-Eastern Education and Library Board - 42

4. Southern Education and Library Board - 193

5. Western Education and Library Board - 30

These figures represent those pupils on whom a statutory assessment of their special educational needs has been completed and who are currently awaiting either a proposed or final statement of special education needs.

Teaching and Learning Resources for the Irish Language

Mr McGlone asked the Minister of Education what action she is taking to ensure that teaching and learning resources for the Irish language at KS3, KS4, AS and A2 levels are comparable to those available in other modern languages at those levels.

(AQO 4017/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Cinneann scoileanna na hacmhainní a úsáideann siad le haon réimse den churaclam a sholáthar, lena n-áirítear an Ghaeilge.

Schools determine the resources they use to deliver any area of the curriculum, including Irish. In support of the provision of resources, at Key Stage 3 my Department has allocated £67,000 to the Southern Education and Library Board, on behalf of all Boards, for the development of a suitable resource to support the teaching of Irish. It is intended that this will be provided to schools later this year.

The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA), along with the National Council for Curriculum & Assessment in the South, has produced guidelines for teachers on the education of gifted and talented pupils from Foundation Stage through to A-level.  This includes specific guidance to assist teachers in identifying learners who are more able in the use of the Irish language at any age and key characteristics of learners with linguistic ability.

Resources will also be provided to support the teaching of Irish in those primary schools participating in my Primary Languages Programme who have opted for Irish and this will support those continuing with the language at post-primary level.

CCEA provides a range of materials to support teachers and learners taking any GCSE and GCE A-Level course, including Irish. The support that CCEA provides across languages is broadly similar.  However, as other languages have a wide range of support materials available for teachers from commercial suppliers, CCEA has produced some additional material for Irish to help compensate for a lack of materials from commercial suppliers to support its revised GCSE and GCE A-Level Irish specifications. This adds to materials currently available via its dedicated Irish micro-site and includes the support packages Cluas, Cluaisín, Translations, matching the AS literature to the textbook Saíocht and commissioning two textbooks for the revised GCSE Irish, which will be taught from September 2009.

I also recently launched Bille na gCeart i Scoileanna: Acmhainn d’Iarbhunscoileanna, the Irish Language version of the Bill of Rights in Schools: A Resource for Post-Primary Schools.

Education Issues

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Education what items will be on the agenda for her next meeting with the Minister for Education and Science; and when the North-South Ministerial Council next meets in education sectoral format.

(AQO 4036/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Bhuail mé le Batt Ó Cuív, TD, Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta sa deisceart ag cruinniú de chuid na Comhairle Aireachta Thuaidh/Theas i bhformáid na hearnála oideachais in Ardscoil De La Salle, Dún Phádraig, ar an ochtú lá is fiche de mhí Bealtaine.

I met with Batt O’Keeffe, TD, Minister for Education and Science in the south, at the North South Ministerial Council in Education Sectoral format held in De La Salle High School, Downpatrick, on 28 May. We discussed a range of issues including educational underachievement, teacher qualifications and teachers’ superannuation, special education needs and school, youth and teacher exchanges. I wish to pay tribute to the staff and pupils of De La Salle School for hosting the event and to the principals of the other schools who were involved on the day. I also wish to record my thanks to Ministers Batt O’Keeffe and Edwin Poots for their participation.

I am due to meet Batt O’Keeffe again at the next Council meeting in the autumn. As yet, no date or agenda has been set.

Children with Dyslexia

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education if a screening test or an observation method has been used to identify the numbers of children with dyslexia.

(AQO 3948/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Dúirt Príomhfheidhmeannaigh na mbord oideachais agus leabharlainne liom go moltar do gach scoil teisteanna scagtha agus modhanna breathnaithe a úsáid mar chuid den mheasúnú tosaigh ar pháistí ar féidir leo disléicse a bheith orthu.

I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the education and library boards that all schools are encouraged to use both screening tests and observation methods as part of the initial assessment of those children who may have dyslexia. Any child who has been identified as having dyslexia and is receiving support from the Board peripatetic service will have been assessed by an Educational Psychologist.

A psychological assessment examines a child’s cognitive functioning, including verbal, perceptual, information processing and short-term memory abilities. The child’s reading, spelling/writing and mathematical skills would be examined using a mixture of standardised tests, observations and discussions with parents and teachers. Associated difficulties would also be considered.

Educational psychologists also offer schools consultations about a pupil’s individual difficulties prior to formally assessing a pupil if this is required.

Most schools are fully aware of the appropriate observation and assessment methods through appropriate training and will, as a matter of course, screen their classes for underlying specific learning difficulties.

Funding for Primary Schools

Mr Ford asked the Minister of Education what action her Department is taking to increase funding for primary schools to match the level for secondary schools.

(AQO 4030/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Thug mé le fios cheana fein go bhfuil mé tiomanta don mhaoiniú idir daltaí bunscoileanna agus daltaí iarbhunscoileanna a fheabhsú taobh istigh de na hacmhainní críochta atá ar fáil do dhaltaí ag gach leibhéal

I have previously signalled that I am committed to improving the balance of funding between primary and post-primary pupils within the finite resources that are available for pupils at all levels.

However, the different structures associated with these phases of education and in particular, the provision of a wider range of subjects by post-primary schools which results in additional cost in areas such as teaching, materials and equipment, specialist facilities and examination fees; mean that equal funding for a primary pupil and a post-primary pupil is not appropriate.

Nevertheless, I have taken on board the views of primary schools and others during the most recent consultation on LMS funding issues, and the change in the primary pupil AWPU weighting from 1.02 to 1.04 in 2008/09 compared to 2007/08, placed over £3.7m more into primary schools.

Within the £20.4m uplift to schools budgets for 2008/09 compared to 2007/08, some £12.67m was directed to primary schools, representing an overall cash uplift of over 3% and over 4% per pupil. For 2008/09, the average per pupil increase for primary schools of £102 per pupil (4%) is higher than the average per pupil increase for post-primary schools. I have also signalled my intentions to increase further the primary AWPU weighting over the next two years of this budget period.

Over the next three years, I have been able to secure additional funding of almost £12 million to help primary school teaching principals and a further £32 million to support primary schools with the delivery of the Foundation Stage of the revised curriculum.

Omagh High School

Mr Bresland asked the Minister of Education to outline what action the Western Education and Library Board is taking to build a replacement school for Omagh High School.

(AQO 3947/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá Ardscoil na hÓmaigh ar cheann de chúig scoileanna a thug le fios go bhfuil suim acu sa mholadh le hathshuí go comh-champas nua oideachais ar iarláithreán na hAireachta Cosanta ag Lios an Eallaigh.

Omagh High School is one of five schools which have expressed an interest in the proposal to relocate to a new shared educational campus on the former Ministry of Defence site at Lisanelly. A business case is currently being developed to inform decisions on the acquisition and development of Lisanelly, and the Western Education and Library Board is closely involved in the work. I have visited Lisanelly on two occasions and have seen the potential the site offers. I congratulate the Church representatives and the schools for their efforts in taking the initiative and working together to develop a proposal for a shared educational campus.

Literacy and Numeracy Skills in Schools

Mr Burnside asked the Minister of Education, given the most recent report on the literacy and numeracy of pupils, what action her Department is taking to encourage stronger links between pre-school, primary and post-primary schools in the teaching of literacy and numeracy.

(AQO 3951/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Is maith is eol dom chomh luachmhar atá sé naisc idir scoileanna a chothú le múineadh litearthachta agus uimhríochta a fhorbairt.

I fully appreciate the value of encouraging links between schools to develop the teaching of literacy and numeracy.

You will be aware that the Department is currently undertaking a review of its literacy and numeracy strategy, and the promotion of links between schools has been considered as part of this review. The revised strategy, which will issue for consultation very shortly, aims to reflect and build on the work that many excellent and committed teachers are already doing in classrooms across the north, and to ensure that every child in every classroom is receiving that same high quality teaching.

The strategy recognises the important role that performance data can have in supporting assessment for learning. The sharing not just of data, but of information on pupils’ achievements, interests and learning styles between pre-schools, primary schools and post-primary schools is an important element in making sure that every child is supported in reaching her or his full potential.

Provision of Education to the Travelling Community

Mr Boylan asked the Minister of Education what discussions she has had under the North-South Ministerial Council format in relation to the provision of education to the travelling community.

(AQO 4046/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá oideachas pháistí an Lucht Taistil á bhreithniú faoi obair maidir le tearc-ghnóthachtáil oideachais.

The education of children from the Traveller community is being considered within current work relating to educational underachievement.

At a recent meeting of the North South Ministerial Council in education sectoral format, officials from both north and south gave presentations on their work with Traveller children and young people. A discussion followed around attainment and attendance and the need for positive action to improve educational outcomes for this community.

At the same meeting, it was agreed to establish an Educational Underachievement Working Group to be jointly chaired by lead officials in both the Department of Education and Department of Education and Science. Initially the group will consider approaches both north and south to raise overall levels of achievement in education and to tackle underachievement, particularly among more disadvantaged groups, including the Traveller community.

I am establishing a Committee for the Education of Traveller children which will bring together statutory and non statutory sectors in the north and I will ensure that there are members of the Traveller community on the Committee. The Committee will actively work to improve educational outcomes for Traveller children and will work with the National Traveller Monitoring and Advisory Committee in the south of Ireland.

Independent Admissions Criteria in Schools

Mr Moutray asked the Minister of Education to give her assessment of the legal permissibility of schools operating the Dickson Plan to (a) establish new independent admissions criteria; and (b) to continue with all existing admissions criteria in the absence of an agreed alternative.

(AQO 3973/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Muna féidir creatlach reachtaíochta nua do iontrálacha iarbhunscoile ó Aistriú dhá mhíle a deich a chomhaontú agus a chur i bhfeidhm, beidh Aistriú i ndiaidh dhá mhíle a deich gan rialú.

If a new legislative framework for post-primary school admissions from Transfer 2010 cannot be agreed and implemented, then Transfer from 2010 will be un-regulated. This means that when school Boards of Governors turn to determining their admissions criteria for 2010 admissions there will be no regulations either specifically permitting or prohibiting their use of any admissions criteria. This will apply to all post-primary schools.

Independent Admissions Criteria in Schools

Mr Neeson asked the Minister of Education what is her assessment of the plans of 31 grammar schools to set up a company to administer a separate selection test.

(AQO 4027/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Níl measúnú agam ar na pleananna seo, nó ní bhfuair mé amharc ró-mhaith orthu.

I do not have an assessment of these plans as I have not seen them in any substantial form. I am aware only of the risks that will be faced by schools that choose to operate their own independent procedures for academic selection. I have stated before – I regard this as a prospect fraught with administrative and litigious perils.

I brought proposals on post-primary transfer to the Executive on May 15, 2008. These proposals offer the prospect of a consensual way forward and include significant and difficult steps on my own part in the interests of reaching agreement. If these proposals can be agreed then we can avoid the danger of un-regulation and support transfer and admissions with the robust legislative framework that this pressured function requires.

Employment and Learning

Irish Language Courses

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning how many Irish language courses are run at the Limavady and Coleraine campuses of the Northern Regional College.

(AQW 7596/08)

The Minister for Employment and Learning (Sir Reg Empey): There are presently no Irish language courses running at the Limavady campus of the North West Regional College, nor at the Coleraine campus of the Northern Regional College.

HND Fine Art Students at the North West Regional College

Ms Anderson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to comment on the availability of top-up degree courses for HND Fine Art students at the North West Regional College.

(AQW 7619/08)

Sir Reg Empey: There are no top-up degree courses available for HND Fine Art students at the North West Regional College. This is in line with my Department’s policy that Further Education Colleges should not normally offer modules at a level beyond year two of a degree course.

New Pay Scale for College Directors

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister for Employment and Learning why the four new bands of pay scale for College Directors were introduced in 2007.

(AQW 7799/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Four new pay bands for FE College Directors were introduced in 2007 following the further education college mergers, as the existing highest pay band was inadequate to cope with the salary position of a Director in a college the size of Belfast Metropolitan College, which is considerably larger than the other five new colleges. Directors’ pay bands are based on college size in terms of full time equivalent enrolments. Only the two lowest of the four new pay bands are currently in use; the lowest replicates the former highest pay band.

Student Figures in Further Education Colleges

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister for Employment and Learning how many students have (i) started; (ii) been retained; and (iii) qualified from, each of the Further Education Colleges over the last three years.

(AQW 7800/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The information requested has been placed in the library.

College Lecturers' Pay Dispute

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what provisions each of the sixteen existing and six new Colleges have made in their accounts for the settlement of the College Lecturers' pay dispute.

(AQW 7801/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The most recent audited accounts available for the FE Colleges were those at 31 July 2007, which was the final year of the 16 colleges prior to merger to form the current 6 area based colleges. At that date, no separate provision had been created in the college accounts in anticipation of a settlement of the lecturer’s pay dispute. However, a sum of £3,160k had been estimated and included in the accounts in relation to the annual anticipated cost of living increase for that year for academic staff. This equates to an increase in academic staff costs of between 2% and 3% for each college.

Training for Success

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what monitoring is conducted by his Department on the wage levels paid to Training for Success trainees by their employers; if the Department will make payment of training allowances conditional on reasonable wage levels being paid to trainees; and over what timeframe it will address this matter.

(AQO 3989/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The Department does not currently monitor the level of wages to apprentices. In its operational guidelines for Training for Success, the Department advises that apprentices should be paid the appropriate rate for the job in line with the National Minimum Wage regulations.

The Low Pay Commission, however, has embarked on a review, including the pay of apprentices, and is due to report early next year following consultation. In preparing its response to this consultation the Department will consider the introduction of a minimum wage for apprentices that is linked to funding for training.

St Mary's University College

Mr Attwood asked the Minister for Employment and Learning why his Department is proposing to cut the Liberal Arts intake for the 2008-09 academic year at St Mary's University College given its success, the proven quality of this qualification, and the number of students from lower social economic backgrounds undertaking this degree.

(AQO 3994/08)

Sir Reg Empey: At present there are 286 students enrolled on the Liberal Arts course at St. Mary’s University College. It is intended that the total enrolment for the next academic year will be 260, a drop of less than 10%. Liberal Arts provision at the College will therefore be 31% of the total student population next year, the same percentage as this year. I am aware that the course has a good track record in attracting those from a lower socio economic background and would hope that such a trend will continue.

Deaf Courses in Strangford

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps he is taking to provide access for deaf people from the Strangford constituency to classes and courses at local colleges.

(AQO 3963/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Under the Special Educational Needs and Disability Order Colleges are required to make appropriate adjustments to ensure that all their courses are accessible to students with disabilities, including those with hearing impairments.

My Department provides financial assistance to help Colleges meet their obligations under the Order. This is available through the Further Education funding mechanism and the Additional Support Fund, which assists with the costs of technical and personal support, such as signers.

Colleges operating in the Strangford constituency have been allocated £212,000 during the 2007/08 academic year from the Fund.

Funding to Stranmillis and St Mary's University Colleges

Mr Burnside asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what method his Department uses to calculate funding to Stranmillis and St Mary's University Colleges.

(AQO 3937/08)

Sir Reg Empey: To date my Department has determined recurrent funding for the University Colleges, in the main, by applying an inflationary uplift to the previous year’s block grant. Since the introduction of variable fees, a part deduction has been made, although, in common with other higher education institutions, the university colleges retain the majority of fee income.

This method does not take account of the outcomes delivered by the University Colleges in terms of student numbers and indeed produces the anomaly that as student numbers fall the level of government funding rises.

My Department is developing a new unit-based fit for purpose funding methodology derived from approaches adopted by the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the Training and Development Agency for Schools, the national body which funds initial teacher education in England.

The new methodology, as well as recognising the specialist character of the two university colleges, links the funding provided more directly to the outcomes delivered in that it is responsive to student numbers.

Third Sector Organisations

Mr O'Loan asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if his Department adheres to guidance provided by the Treasury on 'Improving Financial Relationships with the Third Sector: Guidance to Funders and Purchasers'; whether it will consider funding for the Ulster People's College, Workers Education Association and the Educational Guidance Service for Adults under this guidance; and what is his assessment on the funding of Third Sector organisations through grant awards rather than through a procurement exercise.

(AQO 3991/08)

Sir Reg Empey: My Department adheres to the Treasury guidance in seeking best value for money in service delivery. The contract for the provision of adult guidance services in Northern Ireland is currently under review and those with the Ulster People’s College and Worker’s Education Authority end in August 2008. I believe the supply of services on a competitive tender basis, where realistic alternative options exist, offers best value solutions within the employment and learning fields.

Sectoral Skills Council

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what progress has been made in reaching sectoral skills agreements with the Sectoral Skills Councils.

(AQO 3940/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Of the 25 Sector Skills Councils, to date, 19 have achieved full Sector Skills Agreements. It is likely that a further four will be approved at the next Project Board meeting on 19 June. Work is continuing with the final two Sector Skills Councils and I hope these will be agreed in the autumn.

Literacy Levels of Prisoners

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he is working with the Northern Ireland Office to increase the literacy levels of prisoners.

(AQO 3999/08)

Sir Reg Empey: My Department works with the Northern Ireland Office in addressing the literacy needs of prisoners. At September 2007, 1,386 prisoners attended courses and 1,150 qualifications were achieved. My Department is participating in a cross-departmental Learning and Skills Forum to provide an integrated approach to raising the skills of offenders.

Further Education Colleges in Tyrone

Lord Morrow asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps he has taken to provide both full-time and part-time places in further education colleges in Fermanagh/South Tyrone, Mid-Ulster and West Tyrone; and how these figures compare to figures 5 years ago.

(AQO 3925/08)

Sir Reg Empey:

As Minister for Employment and Learning I set the strategic direction for the Further Education sector in Northern Ireland. This includes the broad nature of provision to be delivered by Further Education colleges, for example to ensure that the qualifications and skills needs of employers and learners are met. The Department therefore, through the annual College Development Planning process agrees high level curriculum targets with individual colleges. This is for example, in terms of the proportion of their funded provision that should be in Northern Ireland’s priority skills areas that should be at Level 2 and Level 3, that should be professional and technical in nature, and that should be based on qualifications that are on the regulated qualifications frameworks. These agreed targets, in turn, determine colleges’ funding allocations.

Within this high level strategic direction, it is then the responsibility of individual colleges to determine the nature of the provision to be offered at each of their campuses, including what is delivered on a full-time and a part-time basis. Wherever possible, provision is linked to the level of demand.

Information is not readily available in the format the member has requested. However, the latest available data from the Further Education Statistical Record (FESR) indicates that in 2006/07 there were 5,476 full-time students and 27,498 part-time students from Fermanagh/South Tyrone, Mid-Ulster and West Tyrone enrolled in Further Education compared to 4,741 full-time students and 29,816 part-time students in 2001/02.

A breakdown across the Parliamentary Constituency areas requested is provided in the following Table.

Enrolments in the NI Further Education Sector from those living in Selected Parliamentary Constituencies (1992 boundaries) 2001/02 and 2006/07

	2001/02			2006/07
Census Parliamentary Constituency	Full-time	Part-time	Total	Full-time	Part-time	Total
FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE	1,772	11,351	13,123	1,869	10,483	12,352
MID ULSTER	1,583	8,445	10,028	1,742	7,546	9,288
WEST TYRONE	1,386	10,020	11,406	1,865	9,469	11,334
Total	4,741	29,816	34,557	5,476	27,498	32,974

Notes:

(1) all modes of provision including Higher Education, Government Training, Cost Recovery and Recreational are included in the above figures.

(2) The figures are calculated based on home postcode of the student.

(3) 2006/07 is the most recent academic year for which validated figures are available.

Supply of Labour in the Construction Industry

Mr Elliott asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what plans his Department has to promote the supply of labour to the construction industry.

(AQO 3943/08)

Sir Reg Empey: As you will be aware, the construction industry in this country is currently facing a partial downturn, particularly in the residential housing market. Nevertheless, the Department will continue to fund training in construction occupations to support the industry according to need highlighted with the Sector Skills Council.

To promote its training provision, the Department will soon be rolling out an extensive marketing campaign and will work with industry sectors, such as construction, to target employers in order to encourage the recruitment and training of apprentices.

The Public Procurement Regulations 2006, Regulation 39, allows for the integration of social considerations within the procurement process. This could include the creation of apprenticeships. The Central Procurement Directorate of the Department of Finance and Personnel, through the Construction Industry Forum for Northern Ireland, is in the process of developing a draft contractual requirement aimed at the recruitment of apprentices as part of public sector construction contracts.

Training for Success

Mrs M Bradley asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what money it has paid to Carter and Carter in relation to Training for Success contracts; and whether the Department has sought legal advice in relation to action it may take against Carter and Carter for its failure to complete these contracts.

(AQO 3990/08)

Sir Reg Empey: I can confirm that Carter and Carter did not receive any monies for services delivered under the Training for Success Contract, and no additional costs were incurred in reallocating these contracts. Consequently, there was no need to initiate legal redress regarding recovery of monies, nor was legal advice sought on these issues.

Further Education Colleges

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what plans he has to review the arrangements for Further Education colleges to deliver courses at local community level.

(AQO 4009/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Colleges deliver a wide range of adult education through their main campuses and in over 700 Community Outreach Centres. The Sector is committed to meeting the learning needs of adults in local communities.

The Department has reviewed colleges’ delivery at local community level and has now developed proposals to enable local organisations, under contract to colleges, to support learners taking Further Education courses that will help to prepare them for employment. This will commence, on a pilot basis, in September 2008.

Cost of Oil in Colleges

Mr Dallat asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to outline his proposals for managing the cost of oil in colleges and other educational institutions; and what additional resources will be made available for capital and revenue costs relating to energy and energy efficiencies.

(AQO 3978/08)

Sir Reg Empey:

The educational institutions for which my Department has responsibility are either incorporated bodies, or autonomous organisations. As such, they are responsible for managing all aspects of their business, including energy usage, within the resources made available to them by the Department, and any additional income they may earn directly from other sources.

There is an expectation that these educational institutions will operate in a manner which is both sustainable and energy efficient. I, therefore, have no plans to provide additional resources. However, sustainability forms an integral part of the Department’s further education infrastructure projects, and energy efficiency is an important element of sustainability. For example, bidders for such projects must take into account the need to minimise energy consumption both in construction and in use.

In relation to higher education, in August 2007 the Higher Education Funding Council for England launched a directory of online resources for the higher education sector covering areas such as sustainable construction, energy efficiency and environmental management. This initiaitve, which forms part of a wider sustainable development strategy and action plan for the higher education sector, was supported by my Department. The resources are designed to spread good practice and promote the use of innovative approaches to sustainable development issues.

North West Regional College at Strabane Campus

Mr Bresland asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to outline what action he is taking to ensure that all sections of the community can avail of further education opportunities provided by the North West Regional College at Strabane Campus.

(AQO 3946/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The provision available at the Strabane campus of the North West Regional College is open to all sections of the community. Further Education colleges provide a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds. Three Colleges have also undertaken pilot programmes in Cultural Diversity and Good Relations, and the lessons of these programmes are now being disseminated across the whole of the Further Education sector.

Enterprise, Trade and Investment

Employment of 16-24 Year Olds

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what percentage of 16-24 year-olds are employed in each parliamentary constituency.

(AQW 7572/08)

The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Mrs A Foster): Labour Force Survey estimates for the percentage of 16 - 24 year olds who were in employment¹ in each parliamentary constituency in 2006 and the associated sampling error² is shown in the table below. 2006 is the most recent annual period for which this information is available.

Employment Rate of 16-24 year olds by Parliamentary Constituency, 2006

Parliamentary Constituency Area	Employment Rate	95% Confidence Interval3
Belfast East	82%	+/- 15%
Belfast North	58%	+/- 13%
Belfast South	51%	+/- 15%
Belfast West	37%	+/- 17%
East Antrim	68%	+/- 14%
East Londonderry	36%	+/- 13%
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	55%	+/- 13%
Foyle	36%	+/- 12%
Lagan Valley	56%	+/- 16%
Mid Ulster	51%	+/- 11%
Newry & Armagh	54%	+/- 12%
North Antrim	61%	+/- 12%
North Down	57%	+/- 16%
South Antrim	52%	+/- 15%
South Down	54%	+/- 11%
Strangford	53%	+/- 15%
Upper Bann	48%	+/- 12%
West Tyrone	50%	+/- 12%
Northern Ireland	52%	+/- 3%

1 Variations in employment rates between parliamentary constituency areas also reflect differences in the proportion of 16-24 year olds in each of the other labour market categories, i.e. unemployment, full-time education or another form of economic inactivity.

2 Because of the level of disaggregation requested, these estimates are subject to a relatively high degree of sampling error. In line with the Office for National Statistics’ policy, these estimates have been published rather than suppressed because they are below an arbitrary threshold level. However, due caution should be exercised in their interpretation.

3 The 95% confidence interval provides a range in which the true employment rate would be expected to fall 95% of the time if the sample was drawn repeatedly.

Source: Labour Force Survey, 2006 Annual dataset

Peace II Funding

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what arrangements were put in place for public match funding of successful projects under Measure 1.1 of the Peace II extension money.

(AQW 7589/08)

Mrs A Foster: Assistance under the Peace 11 Extension can be up to 75% of project costs. The assistance can be split on the basis of 62.5% public match funding and 37.5% ERDF. The public match funding for projects in Northern Ireland is provided by the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment through its public expenditure allocation. Funding is provided to successful projects through letters of offer which detail the terms and conditions for the payment of funding.

Science Park at Magee Campus

Mr A Maginness asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans he has to develop a Science Park at the Magee campus.

(AQO 3997/08)

Mrs A Foster: There are already Science Park facilities at the University of Ulster (UU) Magee Campus provided through the University of Ulster Science Research Parks Ltd (UUSRP). These include the Technology and Software Innovation Centre (TSIC) and a Software Development Centre for companies graduating from the TSIC or ICT based R&D companies seeking to establish a close and specific interaction with the University.

It has always been the intention that the Northern Ireland Science Park (NISP) would extend, in time, to other locations in Northern Ireland. Phase 1 of NISP’s development allowed for this. Indeed in 2003, £2m was allocated for investment in the North West (in association with the Ulster University) for the development of the Science Park at Magee and Coleraine. However, following decisions taken by Ulster University that it was unable to proceed with establishing new facilities, the full amount was returned to NISP in August 2005.

It is recognised by both the Science Park and Ulster University that a NISP presence in the North West could be of mutual advantage and of benefit to the regional economy. The potential for extending the Science Park is therefore kept under review and DETI continues to encourage NISP to bring forward workable and sustainable solutions for the expansion of the Science Park across Northern Ireland.

Bio-Fuels in Fuel Stations

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the amount of bio-fuels that are (i) produced; and (ii) sold at fuel stations.

(AQW 7765/08)

Mrs A Foster: HM Revenue and Customs (HRMC) requires all biofuel producers who have produced or expect to produce more than 2500 litres a year to register their premises for fuel duty purposes.

HMRC records indicate that for the quarter January to March 2008 just under 100,000 litres of biofuel production was declared in Northern Ireland.

No information is held on the amount of biofuels currently sold at Northern Ireland fuel stations. There is not necessarily a correlation between the estimated biofuel production figures and the levels sold at fuel stations, as some production may be for own use or for direct sale.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by his Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

(AQW 7778/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Information requested is detailed in the tables below.

Owned Cars

Make	Model	Engine Size	Fuel Type	Purpose	Fuel Efficiency
Volvo	V50 SPT Wagon SE	2.0	Diesel	Monitoring, field work, field trips, VIP visits, promotion of Geological Survey NI publications and moving of equipment.	37.2 miles per gallon
Landrover	Discovery Jeep	2.7 V6	Diesel	Monitoring of abandoned mines by Geological Survey NI	25.4 miles per gallon
Renault	Laguna Estate	1.8	Petrol	NI Tourist Board business use	46 miles per gallon

Leased Cars

Make	Model	Engine Size	Fuel Type	Purpose	Fuel Efficiency
Volvo	S80 SE LUX Saloon	2.4	Diesel	Chief Executive, Invest NI, travel	29.5 miles per gallon

*DETI’s NDPBs are: Invest NI, NI Tourist Board, Health and Safety Executive for NI and the General Consumer Council NI.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how much his Department has spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by the Department since devolution.

(AQW 7780/08)

Mrs A Foster:

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, including its *Non Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs), has spent £16,920 on fuel for owned vehicles since devolution. The amount spent on fuel for leased vehicles since devolution is £1,153.

*DETI’s NDPBs are: Invest NI, NI Tourist Board, Health and Safety Executive for NI and the General Consumer Council NI.

Renewable Energy

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans are in place to facilitate net metering, for those who generate small amounts of renewable energy, to be incorporated into an all-island single electricity market.

(AQW 7793/08)

Mrs A Foster: There has been no change in the position on this matter since my predecessor, Nigel Dodds, responded to the question in December last.

The arrangements in Northern Ireland for the metering of electricity exported and imported by small renewable generators which were in place prior to the introduction of the Single Electricity Market ("SEM") are unaffected by the operation of the new market.

There are no plans to change these arrangements which allow small generators, in the first instance, to use output from their generating station to meet their own consumption needs without reference to a licensed supplier. For any electricity that they export to, or consume from, a licensed supplier is separately recorded by a meter. Payment arrangements for both imports and exports are subject to the supplier's terms and conditions of contract. A specific obligation is placed on NIE Energy Ltd to offer a regulated ‘spill’ tariff for small scale generation.

Small scale renewable generators in Northern Ireland also benefit by having access to tradeable Renewables Obligation Certificates (NIROCs) under the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation in respect of their generation.

Extra Funding for Debt Advisors

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if she will consider providing financial support to independent advice providers in communities to assist and support people who are under pressure as a result of debt problems.

(AQW 7881/08)

Mrs A Foster: My Department is providing funding to Omagh Independent Advice Service and to Housing Rights for the 3 year period 2008/11. This is being channelled through its contract with Citizens Advice to provide a free face to face debt advice service across Northern Ireland. The contract was awarded following a public procurement exercise.

Renewable Energy

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how much and what proportion of Northern Ireland-generated energy supplies were derived from renewable sources in (i) 2000; and (ii) 2007.

(AQW 7898/08)

Mrs A Foster: Currently figures on renewables in Northern Ireland relate only to electricity from renewable energy sources. These figures are used to measure progress against our renewables target that, by 2012, 12% of electricity consumption will be from indigenous renewable energy sources.

The figures, like the target, are on the basis of years ending 31 March.

The information requested is shown in the table below:

	Renewable Generation (GWh)	Proportion of all Supplies (%)
2000/01	118	1.4%
2007/08	441	5.0%

Illegally Imported Fuel

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what assistance she has given to petrol retailers seeking to close sites selling illegally imported fuel.

(AQW 7899/08)

Mrs A Foster: Illegal trading of fuels such as smuggled petrol and laundered diesel directly impacts on legitimate businesses and is often conducted without regard for public safety. To help combat this illegal trade HSENI will assist District Councils in their petroleum licensing enforcement role by setting up a Fuel Oils Liaison Unit within HSENI that will collate intelligence on the fuel oil supply chain. This initiative will be supported by a representative Fuel Oils Forum. In addition, HSENI takes every opportunity to work in conjunction with the PSNI and other enforcing agencies to tackle illegal trading in fuels where safety of the public has been put at risk.

Grants for Alternative Energy Sources in Homes

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what grants are available for the installation of (i) solar; (ii) geo-thermal; and (iii) wind energy, in domestic properties.

(AQW 7920/08)

Mrs A Foster: Currently the Low Carbon Buildings Programme (LCBP) administered by the Department of Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) offers renewable energy grants to private households in Northern Ireland. The assistance available is outlined below:

Solar: Solar photovoltaics: Maximum grant of £2,000 per kW of installed capacity, subject to an overall maximum of £2,500 or 50% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower.

Solar thermal hot water: Overall maximum grant of £400 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower.

Geo-thermal: Ground source heat pumps: Overall maximum grant of £1,200 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is the lower.

Wind energy: Wind turbines: Overall maximum grant of £900 or 30% of the relevant eligible costs, whichever is lower.

Energy Prices

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the level of strategic policy engagement between her Department and her counterpart in the Republic of Ireland, with a view to securing energy at low cost prices.

(AQW 7952/08)

Mrs A Foster: The strategic policy context under which my Department engages with its counterpart in the Republic of Ireland is set out in the All-island Energy Market Development Framework which was developed by the Joint Steering Group and agreed by the Departments’ respective Ministers in November 2004. Both Eamon Ryan TD and I recognise the potential to secure mutual benefits, including longer term cost savings from co-operation on energy matters.

Wind Farms

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action her Department is taking to ensure that wind farms are setting a fair price for their energy production.

(AQW 7953/08)

Mrs A Foster: Issues relating to regulation and price-setting of energy production from wind farms are primarily matters for the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation and, with the introduction of the Single Electricity Market (SEM) in November 2007, the newly appointed SEM Committee also has an important statutory role in this regard.

Increasing competitiveness and the associated impact on prices were prime objectives of the introduction of the SEM. In that market, wind farms are currently price–takers and, as such, do not themselves set the price for their energy production. While they and other renewable generators have priority of despatch, they compete on price terms with other generators and this is the key mechanism for ensuring that their production is purchased at a fair price.

Economic Investment Conference

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many on-going negotiations are taking place with potential investors, arising out of the Economic Investment Conference.

(AQO 4064/08)

Mrs A Foster: Invest Northern Ireland has followed up with all 150 business delegates at the USNI conference ensuring that all have been thanked for attending and asking for an opportunity to follow up with them in relation to investment opportunities.

To date Invest Northern Ireland has received over 40 expressions of interest in discussing what Northern Ireland can offer. Leslie Morrison, Chief Executive of Invest Northern Ireland, has already completed a conference follow up visit to the US and met with Senior Executives in New York. Meetings have also taken place in London and Dublin.

Invest Northern Ireland is also planning a series of follow up mini round-table events, or "salon events" which are small in size and have worked very effectively as part of the recruitment drive for the conference. These events will include a combination of existing investor CEOs, attendees at the conference, advocates of Northern Ireland, academics, politicians and targeted decision makers in prospect companies. This leverages the 'influencer effect' of those who also attended the conference.

We expect that the results, in terms of investment, flowing from the Conference may take some time to come to fruition. Projects can take 18-24 months to complete.

Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment the timescale for the Northern Ireland Health and Safety Executive to undertake its duties under the new Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007.

(AQW 8164/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) has been actively enforcing the provisions of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations since they came into operation on 9 July 2007. There was a seamless change on 9 July as these regulations revised and brought together the former Construction (Design and Management) regulations and the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) regulations into a single regulatory package with the key aim of improving clarity and thereby making it easier for all duty holders be they clients, designers or contractors to know what is expected of them.

Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans the Northern Ireland Health and Safety Executive has to focus on the role of the designers in carrying out their duties under the new Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007, to avoid foreseeable risks.

(AQW 8166/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) has been proactive in raising awareness amongst designers of their duties under the new Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007. This has entailed running seminars and speaking at meetings of professional bodies representing architects and civil engineers. In addition, it has as part of its investigations into major construction safety incidents, some of which have involved the loss of life, closely examined the part played by designers. HSENI also plans to undertake a series of head office visits to confront senior management about their role in managing site health and safety. This will have a focus on design to ensure each project is safe to build, safe to use and safe to maintain.

Promotion of a Healthy Workforce

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what work his Department is undertaking with the Health and Safety Executive to incentivise businesses to promote the health of their workforce.

(AQO 3956/08)

Mrs A Foster: My Department is fully supportive of the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland in its mission of improving the health and well being of the working age population of Northern Ireland. Under the auspices of the Executive’s long term workplace health strategy "Working for Health", HSENI has run initiatives aimed at supporting and encouraging businesses to address major causes of work related ill health such as manual handling and stress. It has also worked closely with the Health Promotion Agency to develop a "WorkWell" health promotion toolkit for businesses. In addition, HSENI plans to develop its workplace health activities further by offering from April 2009 new and expanded services which will be funded from the Executive’s Programme for Government’s Budget. These new services will include confidential and free workplace health consultancy for small businesses, focussed health promotional campaigns and a specific drive to address mental health and well being.

Economic Development

Mrs M Bradley asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if he will develop a policy to create a 'Champion of the Economy' with a cross-Departmental remit capable of ensuring that economic development is a priority.

(AQO 4024/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Northern Ireland Executive has made the economy the top priority in the Programme for Government. As Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Investment, I will do all that I can to help grow the dynamic, innovative economy envisaged in the Programme for Government.

Furthermore, as part of my role as the ETI Minister, I have already chaired the Economic Development Forum. This is an important body that brings together Government and other key stakeholders that have the shared objective of strengthening the local economy.

I therefore do not see any merit in creating additional structures to champion the economy, over-and-above those already in place.

Innovation Voucher Schemes for Small Businesses

Mr Burnside asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to provide details of the uptake to date on the innovation voucher scheme for small businesses; and his assessment of the numbers which may apply by the close of the first call on 30th June 2008.

(AQO 3932/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Innovation Voucher initiative was launched on the 27^th of May 2008. The first call for applications opened on the 1^st of June.

As at the 5th of June, seven applications have been received, with 98 unique users visiting the Innovation Vouchers website. It is very difficult to predict how many applications will be received by the first call closing date of the 30^th of June. However, Invest NI’s target is to issue 50 Innovation Vouchers between June 2008 and March 2009.

Entrepreneurship in Rural Communities

Mr Brolly asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how his Department is promoting and supporting entrepreneurship within rural communities, particularly among marginalised groups.

(AQO 3993/08)

Mrs A Foster: My Department acknowledges the distinctive economic development role played by entrepreneurs in Northern Ireland, particularly in terms of their impact on local and rural communities and areas of economic disadvantage.

The full range of Invest NI support is available to those living in rural areas. In particular, the Start a Business Programme can provide helpful start up support.

Over the three year period to end March 2008, 42% of all the business start ups in Northern Ireland supported via the Start a Business Programme were in rural locations.

Invest NI’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme also offers a range of assistance to help both new and existing social enterprises to develop and grow into sustainable and viable businesses. Since its launch in September 2006, this programme has been used to assist 80 new social enterprises.

Other Invest NI programmes targeted specifically at youth and women in business have NI wide coverage.

In addition, Invest NI works closely with DARD on a variety of joint events to encourage higher levels of rural entrepreneurship. A brochure targeted at this group, with the title ‘A look at opening your business to new prospects,’ provides some very useful practical guidance and signposts potential rural entrepreneurs to various sources of professional advice.

Northern Ireland Tourist Board

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for his assessment of the performance and success of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board in 2007.

(AQO 4032/08)

Mrs A Foster: Targets for the Northern Ireland Tourist Board which cover 2007 are set out in the Board’s Operating Plans for 2006/2007, 2007/2008 and the Corporate Plan 2005-2008. NITB has had considerable success in achieving these challenging targets and the detailed results will be set out in the Board’s Annual Report which will be published shortly.

In particular, NITB’s promotion and development of the tourism product in Northern Ireland was a key contributor to more than 2.1 million visitors coming to Northern Ireland in 2007, an increase of 6% on the previous year. Significantly, the number of holiday leisure and recreation visits in 2007 rose from 385,000 to 493,000, an increase of 28%.

Although this is a positive performance in a competitive global tourism environment, we have the potential to increase tourism’s contribution to the economy. In particular, we must seek to increase visitor revenue which fell by 1.5% between 2006 and 2007.

I would remind Members that the Executive has set ambitious targets in the Programme for Government, including a target to increase the out of state visitor numbers and spend to 2.5 million and £520 million respectively by 2011.

Support and Development of Small Craft Businesses

Mr Armstrong asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what policies are in place for the support and development of small craft businesses, such as those producing jewellery, ceramics, furniture, textiles and glass.

(AQO 3957/08)

Mrs A Foster: My department acknowledges the significant contribution to the social, economic and cultural fabric of Northern Ireland made by the Craft Sector and the wider Creative Industries in Northern Ireland.

Invest NI has a wide range of programmes available to all SMEs, including small craft businesses, designed to improve productivity, develop export markets and increase their international competitiveness. As an example of this, during the period September 2001 to March 2008, Invest NI offered support to approximately 300 new businesses from the Craft Products and Services Sector under the Start a Business Programme. This will lead to the creation of over 380 new jobs.

Invest NI has also provided support to Crafts Development NI Ltd, the sector-lead body responsible for the development of the design-led contemporary craft and applied arts sector in Northern Ireland, in order to further develop small craft businesses.

My department is also aware that many craft businesses work as successful social economy enterprises. Invest NI has committed, through its corporate plan, to assist the growth of the social economy sector through Invest NI’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme. This programme offers a range of assistance to both new and existing social enterprises to grow and develop into sustainable viable businesses.

Business Growth

Mr Lunn asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline his plans to promote business growth in the light of the Varney Reviews.

(AQO 3996/08)

Mrs A Foster: The second Varney review identified removing the barriers to business growth as an essential measure to improve the local economy. As with many of the recommendations, we are already working to achieve this through the actions outlined in the Programme for Government.

DETI remains committed to promoting enterprise locally and attracting Foreign Direct Investment. The Department also continues to support increasing innovation and exports, promote tourism, improve our telecoms infrastructure and promote greater use of renewable energy sources.

These priorities are reflected in the ambitious targets included in the Programme for Government. These include, for example, the creation of 6,500 new jobs from inward investment, 85% of which to provide salaries above the private sector median; promoting 600 new first time exporters; and a target to increase tourism revenue to £520m by 2011.

These, and other initiatives in the Programme for Government, will help place the Northern Ireland economy in a stronger competitive position.

Electricity Supply

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action he is taking to ensure the overall sustainability of the electricity supply.

(AQO 3972/08)

Mrs A Foster: Northern Ireland is currently heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels. It will require considerable investment in renewable generation and the electricity grid infrastructure if we are to have a more sustainable energy future. A key element will also involve working with neighbouring administrations to fully exploit the opportunities to improve existing security of supply and maximise the use of renewables.

A planned tripartite study with Scotland and the Irish Republic into the feasibility of an off-shore electricity grid network, to exploit wind, wave and tidal energy sources, is one such example.

In addition, the recent cross border Electricity Grid Study indicates that we have the potential to provide up to 42% of electricity from renewable sources, mainly from wind farms. This could significantly improve our energy sustainability, help shelter consumers from global fossil fuel price fluctuations and contribute to meeting UK and EU climate change targets.

DETI is also currently scoping the potential for bioenergy and marine renewable energy to contribute to more diversified and sustainable energy production in Northern Ireland.

Other areas of work include a joint North South gas storage study to enhance security of supply and coordination of emergency planning arrangements.

These examples illustrate the measures being taken to ensure security and sustainability of our energy supplies and to provide long term protection for consumers.

Tourism Market

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action he is taking to develop the short break and city break tourism market.

(AQO 3976/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Tourism Ireland use TV advertising, press, radio and web promotion to deliver marketing campaigns aimed specifically at the Northern Ireland short break and city break markets.

NITB targets domestic tourists and potential visitors from the Republic of Ireland and Tourism Ireland’s extensive marketing campaign targets visitors in key markets such as Great Britain, Mainland Europe and the US.

In addition, NITB works closely with the Northern Ireland tourist accommodation industry to provide attractive short break offers and to inform visitors of things to see and do on short breaks or city breaks.

Twelfth of July Demonstrations

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action is being taken by the tourism agencies, in conjunction with the Orange Order, to promote this year's twelfth of July demonstrations.

(AQO 3969/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Northern Ireland Tourist Board is working with the Orange Order to help them broaden the appeal of this year’s twelfth of July demonstrations. NITB has identified four ‘flagship’ parades, Belfast, Tandragee, Dromara and Coleraine, as having the most potential to appeal to visitors.

NITB has organised Welcome Host Training for representatives from these parades to help maximise their tourism potential. The parades will also feature on NITB’s consumer website.

Tourism Ireland has discussed the portrayal of the twelfth of July demonstrations with the Orange Order, Orangefest and other relevant parties. In addition, Tourism Ireland has met with the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland and attended Loyal Order parades over the last three years. TIL recently presented to representatives of ten District Lodges regarding this year’s demonstrations.

Mobile Phone Users in Border Areas

Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action his Department has taken to remove any disadvantages and extra costs incurred by mobile phone users in border areas.

(AQO 3992/08)

Mrs A Foster: During the period 2004 to 2007 my Department, working in conjunction with the then Department of Communications Marine and Natural Resources in the Irish Republic and both Regulators, made significant progress in addressing the issue. This work led to the introduction, by the telecoms companies, of all-island tariffs and special tariff initiatives for phone users which significantly reduced the scale of the problem.

In parallel the issue of mobile roaming was being investigated by the EU Commissioner for Information Society and Media and in August 2007 roaming tariffs across all of Europe were capped which had the effect of reducing the typical costs of a call from as much as £1 per minute to no more than 38p per minute. Whilst welcome for those travelling across Europe, this in itself does not completely solve the inadvertent roaming issue for those living and using mobile phones close to the border and a number of companies have introduced deals for Northern Ireland customers that can reduce these costs further. Significant progress has been made in relation to pricing in what is a privatised and independently regulated industry. If the member has new evidence of a particular problem, this should be passed to the Regulator, OFCOM for consideration.

Tackling Crimes against Business People

Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what steps he has taken in conjunction with the PSNI to help tackle crime against business people at work and at home.

(AQO 3958/08)

Mrs A Foster: DETI has a representative on the Organised Crime Task Force Working Group and regularly inputs into the work of that body.

The Organised Crime Task Force seeks to advise major financial institutions and cash-in-transit companies on how best to protect staff from tiger kidnappings. In addition, the NIO, through their Community Safety Unit, provide advice and financial support and works in partnership with other statutory and voluntary agencies to tackle many crime prevention issues, including business crime.

The PSNI also engages with groups such as the Retailers Against Crime Forum to advise retailers and business owners on the steps they can take to prevent tiger kidnaps against them and their employees. PSNI Crime Prevention Officers are available to attend homes and businesses on request to give specific advice

In addition, DETI, through the Trading Standards Service, TSS, seeks to alert businesses to scams and other malpractices that have a detrimental impact on their commercial interests.

Such alerts are provided through the issue of press releases and by the participation of TSS staff in any resultant media interviews.

DETI is also involved, through the Health and Safety Executive, in assisting District Councils in their petroleum licensing enforcement role by setting up both a Fuel Oils Liaison Unit within HSENI and a representative Fuel Oils Forum. In addition HSENI takes every opportunity to work in conjunction with the PSNI and other enforcing agencies to tackle illegal trading in fuels, particularly liquefied petroleum gas, where safety of the public has been put at risk. Illegal trading of fuels, such as smuggled petrol and laundered diesel, directly impacts on legitimate businesses and is often conducted without regard for public safety.

Environment

Departmental Staff with Disabilities

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment how many people with disabilities are currently employed by her Department.

(AQW 7617/08)

The Minister of the Environment (Mr S Wilson): The Department’s records show that a total of 102 staff have voluntarily declared a disability. This may, however, not be an accurate reflection of the Departmental position as these figures are based on staff who voluntarily declared a disability during their employment.

MOT Certificates

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment how many vehicles registered in Northern Ireland (i) must display an MOT certificate; and (ii) are exempt from displaying an MOT certificate.

(AQW 7627/08)

1. Mr S Wilson: There are approximately 589,375 vehicles that were manufactured prior to 2005 and which would therefore require an MOT certificate
2. Vehicles tested under the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 must all display their MOT disc. The legislation does not allow for any exemptions.

MOT Tests

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment what discussions she has had with Ministers in Westminster and Scotland, in relation to supplying vehicles from Northern Ireland, that have been put through an MOT test in Great Britain, with a disc that can be displayed on the windscreen.

(AQW 7629/08)

Mr S Wilson: No discussions were held with Ministers in Westminster and Scotland. Mandatory display of MOT discs applies only to vehicles tested under the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003. There is no requirement for a vehicle tested in Great Britain to display a certificate.

Contracts for Consultancy Services

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of the Environment what the total costs incurred by her Department were as a result of the use of external consultants, including aboriculturalists, for the establishment of Tree Preservation Orders.

(AQW 7660/08)

Mr S Wilson: The total cost incurred by the Department of the Environment as a result of the use of external consultants, including arboriculturists, for the establishment of Tree Preservation Orders during the financial year 2007/2008, was £410,466.31 (exclusive of VAT). This includes costs for the consultant arboriculturists and land surveyors.

Radioactivity Monitoring

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment what level of radioactivity monitoring is carried out by her Department around the Irish Sea and across Northern Ireland.

(AQW 7662/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Environment and Heritage Service has a comprehensive monitoring programme in place to assess the impact of discharges into the Irish Sea on the Northern Ireland coastline. Samples of seaweed, sediments, fish, nephrops and winkles are collected quarterly and sent for analysis at the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences in Lowestoft. The seaweeds are collected in the Ards Peninsula area and at Portrush; the marine life samples are collected where possible from commercial landings at Kilkeel; and the sediment samples are collected from the five marine Loughs. In addition the gamma dose rate in air over inter-tidal sediments is measured in each district council area which has a coastline.

The results from the monitoring programme are published annually in the Northern Ireland Abstract of Statistics. They are also published in a report entitled ‘Radioactivity in Food and the Environment’ (the RIFE report) issued by the Food Standards Agency, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, the Environment Agency and the Environment and Heritage Service. The results, which are in complete agreement with other UK Agencies and the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, indicate that levels of contamination are negligible in terms of radiological impacts upon our population.

The Food Standards Agency also has a programme of monitoring to demonstrate that any radioactivity present in foods does not compromise food safety and to check that public radiation exposure more generally is within national and international limits. Their results are also published in the RIFE report.

Planning Applications

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment if she will consider inserting provisions into the current neighbourhood notification requirements that would require planning applications to indicate the removal of any trees.

(AQW 7698/08)

Mr S Wilson: Neighbour notification is not a statutory requirement. To help the public become involved in the planning process Planning Service write to people who occupy buildings on land adjoining the application site boundary and which are also within 90 metres of it as detailed in Information Leaflet 3 – Commenting on a Planning Application. In addition, all planning applications are advertised and the application and plans, including all associated information, are made available for public inspection.

I consider these arrangements sufficient to alert the public to the nature of proposals and have no plans at present to review current neighbourhood notification requirements to include an indication of where trees are to be removed.

Homes Near High Voltage Power Lines

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of the Environment (i) what is her policy on planning applications for homes which are close to high voltage power lines; (ii) how many applications for both private and social homes close to high voltage power lines have been approved since devolution; and (iii) how many applications for both private and social homes close to high voltage power lines have been rejected since devolution.

(AQW 7700/08)

Mr S Wilson: There is no specific policy for the assessment of planning applications in close proximity to high power voltage lines. Overhead transmission lines are owned by Northern Ireland Electricity plc (NIE). NIE does not usually own land below its transmission and distribution power lines and cannot control development which takes place there. However, NIE advise my Department and developers on operational safe clearances for such proposals. The necessary clearance at a specific location will be dependent on several factors, including the location the line is passing over and the line’s construction, design and operating voltage. My Department consults NIE on all individual planning applications on land crossed by existing overhead power lines so they can advise on the particular clearances prevailing.

It is not possible to provide data on the number of applications for both private and social homes close to high voltage power lines that have been approved and rejected since devolution. To provide this information for the years in question could only be done by manual search of all existing files and this would not be available in the time and would incur disproportionate costs.

Chicken Waste Incinerator in Glenavy

Mr Burns asked the Minister of the Environment if she will place a full copy of the planning application for a chicken waste incinerator in Glenavy, recently submitted by Rose Energy, in the Assembly Library.

(AQW 7759/08)

Mr S Wilson: The planning application for a Biomass Fuelled Power Plant at Ballyvannon Road Glenavy was submitted by Rose Energy to the Planning Service Headquarters on 4^th June 2008. I will not be making a copy of the planning application available in the Assembly Library however a copy of the planning application and accompanying environmental statement will be available for viewing at the offices of the Planning Service Headquarters, Millennium House, 17-25 Great Victoria Street, Belfast and at the Divisional Planning Offices in Downpatrick, Ballymena, Craigavon and Omagh.

Should anyone wish to view the working planning application file then they can do so through the Planning Service open file policy. An appointment is necessary to view the working file and can be made through Planning Service Headquarters where the application is being processed.

Review of Environmental Governance

Mr Weir asked the Minister of the Environment how much the Review of Environmental Governance cost; and how much each of the three authors received for their work on this report.

(AQW 7770/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Review of Environmental Governance cost £244,429. 

The amounts each of the three authors received for their work on this report were as follows:

Professor Tom Burke received £31,380

Professor Sharon Turner received £53,733

Gordon Bell received £23,948

MOT Tests

Mr Easton asked the Minister of the Environment how many cars have undergone an MOT test in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7783/08)

Mr S Wilson: Details of the number of MOT full tests and retests conducted, on cars, in the last 3 years are included in the following table.

YEAR	FULL TESTS	RETESTS
05/06	449,540	110,262
06/07	502,976	110,599
07/08	520,315	113,063

MOT Tests

Mr Easton asked the Minister of the Environment how much money has been brought into her Department through MOT tests in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7784/08)

Mr S Wilson: The amount of money taken by the Driver & Vehicle Agency (previously the Driver & Vehicle Testing Agency) as part of Department of the Environment through MOT tests carried out in each of the last 3 years has been:

2005/06 – £16.005M

2006/07 - £18.451M

2007/08 - £18.918M

Pygmy Shrew Population in Northern Ireland

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment to estimate (i) the number of (a) shrews; and (b) dormice; and (ii) what action she is taking to increase their habitat and consequently promote growth in the number of owls.

(AQW 7824/08)

Mr S Wilson: There are no published scientific estimates of the pygmy shrew population in Northern Ireland, however, the species is generally regarded as common and widespread throughout Ireland in all areas of suitable habitat.

There are no dormice in Ireland.

The pygmy shrew is found in practically all habitats where there is heavy ground cover and consequently habitat loss is not regarded as a limiting factor in relation to population abundance or distribution.

Published literature on owl diet suggests that whilst pygmy shrews are a component of the diet, other species such as wood mouse or juvenile brown rat are equally or more important.

Planning Applications

Mr Easton asked the Minister of the Environment what is the average time for a planning application to be processed from start to finish.

(AQW 7830/08)

Mr S Wilson: From 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007, there were a total of 23,848 planning application decisions issued. The applications are grouped into major, intermediate and minor categories, depending on the type of development. The median (that is, most appropriate average) length of time these applications took to process from start to finish was:

Major applications – 32.6 weeks

Intermediate applications – 40.2 weeks

Minor applications – 14.0 weeks

Further analysis of processing times is available from the Agency website: http://www.planningni.gov.uk/Corporate_Services/stats/planning-statistics.htm

Tree Preservation Orders

Mr Easton asked the Minister of the Environment what areas of North Down have tree preservation orders placed on them.

(AQW 7831/08)

Mr S Wilson: There are 54 TPOs in place in the North Down area. The sites are as follows:

LOCATION OF LANDS

Land south east of 8 Carolhill Drive rear of 51-57 Ballymaconnell Road, Bangor

Land adj to 10 Whinney Hill, Holywood

Laurelbank Lane, Comber

Woodbank, Croft Road, Holywood

Adjacent to 11 Whinney Hill, Holywood.

Braemar Heights, Holywood

Whinney Hill Development, Holywood

Seymore Road, Carnlea, Co Down

Tree Tops, Whinney Hill, Holywood

Killaire House, Bangor

Whinney Hill, Holywood

Dromkeen House, My Lady's Mile, Holywood

PLas Merdyn, Church Road, Holywood

Croft House, Croft Road, Holywood

Lands at Whinney Hill, Holywood

Cultra House, Cultra

Land at Glen Road, Craigavad

The Beeches, Gransha Road, Bangor

Adjoining Fruithill Park, Bangor

2 Circular Road East, Cultra

Lands North East of 165 Groomsport Road, Bangor.

Land to the rear 63 Station Road, Craigavad, Holywood Craigavad

Beechfield Avenue, Conlig, Bangor.

Seacourt, Bangor

To the rear of 43 Station Road, Craigavad

The Rectory, 2 Raglan Road, Bangor

Lands to the south of 5, 21, 23 and 25 Carneyhill Seahill

67 Station Road, Craigavad

Worcester Avenue, Bangor

Lands at St. Columbanus, adjacent to 57 Craigdarragh Road, Helen's Bay.

Lands at 83a Victoria Road and 44 Glenview Road, Holywood

At 14 Seafront Road, Cultra, Holywood.

159 Groomsport Road, Ballyholme, Bangor.

42 Victoria Road, Holywood

Lands at 15 Morningside, Ballyholme, Bangor

Land at St Mark's Church of Ireland Church, Holywood Road, Belfast.

16 Glen Road, Cultra, Holywood, Co Down.

Lands at 1 Kathleen Drive, Helen's Bay, Co Down.

Land from 20-46 Ballymenoch Road + 19-21 Whinney Hill, Holywood

Lands 32 bridge Road, Helens Bay

Lands at 18 Ailsa Road, Cultra, Holywood

Lands at 27 Clanbrassil Road, Holywood

Trees in the grounds of 126 Bangor Road, Holywood

Land to the rear of 49 Ballyrobert Road Crawfordsburn

Lands at 4 Bennet Wood, Helen's Bay, Co Down.

Lands at 73,75 & 77 Victoria Road and to the rear of 22, 24, 26 & 28 Church Avenue, Holywood

Lands at Ardavon, 16 Glen Road, Holywood

39 Glen Road, Cultra, Holywood*

lands at Ballykillaire Sports Ground, Old Belfast Road, Bangor*

15 Farnham Road, Bangor*

Lands at and adjacent to Woodside Cottage, 103 Main Street, Conlig*

Lands at Kathleen Avenue, Helen's Bay*

48 Station Road (Cedar Lane), Craigavad, Holywood, Co Down*

Land at 8 Killaire Avenue, Ballykillaire, Bangor, Co Down*

*The final 7 TPOs listed above are provisional orders and are used in situations where the Department considers the trees to be under immediate danger. They take effect immediately on the date specified providing protection for trees. This allows the Department time to consider objections and representations and to consult with Landscape Architects Branch and the Divisional Planning Office. A provisional TPO must be confirmed within 6 months of the date of the order, otherwise the protection afforded to trees expires.

Owl Population

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment for an estimate of the number of owls.

(AQW 7890/08)

Mr S Wilson: Three species of Owl can be found in Northern Ireland: Barn Owl, Long-eared Owl and Short-eared Owl.

It is estimated that the Northern Ireland breeding population of Barn Owls has decreased to about 40 pairs, and the population remains fragile and fragmented.

The population of Long-eared Owls in Ireland is between 1,100–3,600 of which it is estimated that there are 300–900 pairs in Northern Ireland.

The Short-eared Owl is a scarce breeding and wintering species. The breeding population is estimated to be in the order of 1-5 pairs.

Planning Applications

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment what assurance he can give that the new environmental body will respond within 6 to 8 weeks when contacted about planning applications.

(AQW 7891/08)

Mr S Wilson: From its launch on 1 July, I am setting the Northern Ireland Environment Agency a performance target of responding to a minimum of 75% of planning application consultation requests within 30 working days of receipt.

I am also allocating additional resources to this area during the year with the aim of increasing this target from 2009/10 onwards.

Social Housing in Strangford

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment what land has been zoned for social housing in the Strangford constituency.

(AQW 7895/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Draft Ards and Down Plan 2015 Plan did not zone land for social housing as it was at an advanced stage in preparation when the specific requirements of Planning Policy Statement 12, (PPS 12), which places an onus on development plans to make provision for social housing through, for example, the zoning of land for that purpose, became known. Furthermore, a detailed Housing Needs Assessment, which clarified the social housing requirement for Ards Borough, only became available after publication of the Draft Plan.

In order to meet the requirements of the Regional Development Strategy, (RDS), at the time of the Draft Plan, the Department, in consultation with NIHE, zoned land for housing in the Draft Plan and included a specific Policy, (HOU 5), to seek social housing through planning applications on such sites. This approach is in line with PPS 12, which is now under review.

An objection was lodged to the social housing provisions in the Draft Plan and this was heard at the Public Inquiry. The Department is now considering the PAC recommendation on this objection as part of the wider PPS 12 regional policy debate on social housing provision prior to publishing the final Plan, with or without modifications.

Rise in Raptures

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment if he will initiate a survey to detail the rise in raptures (birds of prey) and their effect on bird and animal life.

(AQW 7897/08)

Mr S Wilson: Northern Ireland hosts a number of regularly occurring resident species of raptor. These are Hen Harrier, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, Goshawk, Sparrowhawk, Buzzard and Kestrel. A range of established surveys already cover these species so there is no requirement to initiate a new survey.

Information on the populations of resident raptors present in Northern Ireland supports the view that, with a few exceptions, numbers of these species are either stable or, more typically, declining. Those species which have shown an increase, such as Buzzard and Peregrine Falcon, are typically recovering from historical persecution which dramatically reduced their populations.

Information is available on typical diets of raptors with some of that information specifically available for Northern Ireland. Prey species typically include small song birds, pigeons, waterbirds, rabbits, small mammals and carrion. The Department is not aware of any evidence to suggest that raptors are having a significant impact on other native wildlife.

Most raptor species in Northern Ireland are regarded as Species of Conservation Concern and as such require a variety of measures to ensure their well-being. The Department will continue to undertake and support surveys of raptors in Northern Ireland as a means of monitoring population change and gathering further information on their ecological needs.

Ecclesiastical Exemption

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of the Environment what plans he has to review the Ecclesiastical Exemption.

(AQW 7919/08)

Mr S Wilson: A review of ecclesiastical exemption is to be carried out by the Autumn. This follows consideration of the comments received by my Department as part of the public consultation exercise on the revised grant-aid policy, which was launched at the ‘Windows of Opportunity’ Conference on 20 May 2008. An undertaking was given at that time that a review would be carried out and it will include further assessment of the position taken by Heritage Agencies in the rest of the United Kingdom on this issue.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of the Environment how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by her Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

(AQW 7934/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department currently owns 107 cars. These cars are owned by Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) and the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA). No cars are leased by my Department.

It is not easily possible to provide accurate information in respect of the fuel efficiency of these cars. As the cars are tax exempt, no fuel efficiency rating is provided on the registration certificate. Furthermore, no data is kept which could be used for a reliable and accurate calculation of such information.

The cars owned by my Department are used for the following purposes:

1. To transport DVA enforcement operatives in the course of their duties (Goods / Taxi / Bus Operations including Automatic Number Plate Recognition use) to specified inspections sites throughout NI;
2. To be used by DVA to travel to operator premises to conduct required interviews;
3. To be used by DVA in a covert enforcement capacity;
4. To assist with traffic management;
5. To carry DVA enforcement equipment to inspection sites;
6. To provide interviewing facilities at the roadside;
7. Driving Test Route evaluation and Driver Examiner training;
8. On site training of MOT vehicle inspectors; and
9. To fulfil the following EHS functions:

• Attendance at emergency pollution incidents;
• Inspections at a variety of waste installations;
• Investigations into illegal dumping;
• Survey and sampling work;
• Inspections at country parks, nature reserves and state care monuments; and
• Towing boats and trailers (i.e. to carry small plant and survey equipment).

Further details of all cars owned by my Department are provided in the table below.

Agency	Make	Model	Engine size	Fuel type	Purpose (as listed above)
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Subaru	Forester Estate	1994	Petrol	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Iveco	Daily	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1870	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1870	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Defender	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Defender	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Isuzu	Trooper	2999	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Isuzu	Trooper	2999	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Van	2496	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Defender	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Defender	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Skoda	Fabia	1390	Petrol	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Mitsubishi	Shogun Sport	2477	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Iveco	Daily	2300	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	110 Crewcab	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Crewcab	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Crewcab	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Crewcab	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Crewcab	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Trafic	1870	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Trafic	1870	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Defender	2402	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Iveco	Rigid	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Iveco	Daily	2300	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Iveco	Daily	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	110 Hardtop	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	110 Hardtop	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Fiesta Courier	1754	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2700	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Iveco	Daily	2800	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Jeep	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Stationwagon	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Renault	Kangoo	1461	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Nissan	Pick up	2494	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2499	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Fiesta	1753	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Discovery	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	110 Station Wagon	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Nissan	Pick up	2494	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Nissan	Pick up	2494	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Defender	2495	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Ranger	2500	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Ford	Transit	1998	Heavy Oil	i
EHS	Landrover	Stationwagon	2495	Heavy Oil	i
DVA	Volkswagen	Passat SE TDI	1968	Heavy Oil	a, b, c
DVA	Volkswagen	Passat SE TDI	1968	Heavy Oil	a, b, c
DVA	Toyota	Avensis TSPIRIT D-4D	2231	Heavy Oil	a, b, c
DVA	Ford	Galaxy ZETEC TDCI 6G	1997	Heavy Oil	a, b, c
DVA	Ford	Galaxy ZETEC TDDI	1896	Heavy Oil	a, d
DVA	Ford	Galaxy ZETEC TDDI	1896	Heavy Oil	a, d
DVA	Volkswagen	Crafter CR35 163 LWB	2461	Heavy Oil	a, e, f
DVA	Volkswagen	Crafter CR35 163 LWB	2461	Heavy Oil	a, e, f
DVA	Volkswagen	Golf Final Edition	1598	Petrol	g
DVA	Ford	Sierra LX	1769	Petrol	h
DVA	Vauxhall	Astra Merit I	1389	Petrol	h
DVA	Volkswagen	Sharan SE TDI	1896	Heavy Oil	g

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of the Environment how much his Department has spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by the Department since devolution.

(AQW 7935/08)

Mr S Wilson: Within my Department both the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) and the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) operate vehicles in the course of their duties. The amount spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned and (ii) leased by the Department since devolution is set out in the table below.

	Vehicles owned £	Vehicles Leased £
EHS	133,428	Nil
DVA	11,122	1,651
TOTAL	144,550	1,651

Rotting Seaweed on the Ards Peninsula

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to the answer to AQW 6715/08, if the local council would be allowed to control the flies that congregate on rotting seaweed on the Ards peninsula.

(AQW 7936/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department has been working with Ards Borough Council to facilitate beach cleaning on its amenity beaches on the Ards peninsula. This strategic approach is aimed at removing the problem of rotting seaweed whilst maintaining the scientific interest of the Outer Ards Area of Special Scientific Interest and Special Protection Area.

Should the council have any public health concerns as a result of the flies, it may apply to Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) for consent to resolve this. EHS will assess any such application to determine the likely impact on the designated features and take account of public health considerations.

If emergency actions are required the council may immediately proceed to resolve the public health problem, provided they give details of the emergency actions implemented to EHS as soon as possible.

Commercial Planning Applications

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of the Environment the average time to process commercial planning applications in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) each Divisional Planning Office.

(AQW 8015/08)

Mr S Wilson: From 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007, there were a total of 1,451 decisions issued or withdrawn for commercial planning applications. The applications are grouped into major, intermediate and minor categories, depending on the type of development. The median (that is, the most appropriate average) length of time these applications took to process was:

Divisions	Major	Intermediate	Minor
	(average number of weeks)	(average number of weeks)	(average number of weeks)
Ballymena	24.6	19.0	19.0
Belfast	24.4	14.8	10.8
Craigavon	40.4	30.6	18.2
Downpatrick	31.2	21.2	16.6
Headquarters 1	82.6	N/A	N/A
Londonderry	38.0	27.0	20.6
Omagh	29.9	26.0	26.2
Planning Service	31.2	22.1	16.6

1 Headquarters generally only process major applications

Graduated Driver Licensing

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment what discussions he has had, or plans to have, with representatives from other countries that operate graduated driver licensing.

(AQW 8019/08)

Mr S Wilson: In developing any new measures aimed at increasing road safety, such as graduated driver licensing (GDL), my Department continues to consider and learn from what works in other parts of the UK, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Our forthcoming consultation on GDL, which will issue shortly, has been informed by:

• reviewing the success of road safety measures in other countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, where GDL schemes are well established;
• analysing the outcomes of a wide range of research e.g. from TRL, PACTS, European Commission reports from the ‘Supreme’ project, etc;
• participation at national and international road safety conferences; and
• membership of organisations such as CIECA, the international commission for driver testing authorities, which is active in the fields of road safety and driver testing.

While there are no immediate plans for meetings at this stage, my Department will consider any opportunities that may arise in the future either for officials or for me to engage with relevant authorities both nationally and internationally on road safety issues such as GDL.

Finance and Personnel

Contracts for Consultancy Services

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to provide, for each of the last 4 years, (i) how many contracts for consultancy services his Department has awarded, which did not have to go out to public tender; (ii) a brief description and value of each contract; and (iii) to whom these contracts have been awarded.

(AQW 6904/08)

The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Mr N Dodds): The information requested is provided in the attached table.

Brief Description of Consultancy Assignment	Company	Value of Contract
2004/05
Advertising Contract Relating to Senior Economist Post	Penna HR Consultancy	8
CPD Customer Satisfaction Survey	University of Ulster Jordanstown	5
Study on Domestic Rating	University of Ulster Jordanstown	16
Total Value of Contracts £'000		29
2005/06
Review of training across the NICS	Peter Small	13
To facilitate presentation in relation to HR Business Partnering in preparation for restructuring of personnel.	Paul Kearns, Personnel Works Ltd	1.8
Facilitation of seminar.	RJP Management Consultancy	2
Change Management Session Facilitation	Hugh Campbell Consultancy	0.7
Total Value of Contracts £'000		17.5
2006/07
Provision of specialist legal advice not readily available from Departmental Solicitors	Addlershaw Goddard	3
IT Project Management specialist skills	HFM	6
Provision of specialist technology and network advice to support the implementation of unique technologies in Workplace 2010 programme	SLA Networks	32
Completion of Lessons Learned Report for Account NI phase.	Derek Lynn	4
Provision of NEC Consultancy to review contract documents	Thomas Telford Ltd	2
Advisory Work on NEC3 Conditions of Contract	Thomas Telford Ltd	0.8
Independent review of Recommendations and main findings review of HPSS in NI	Prof John Appleby	12.5
Total Value of Contracts £'000		60.3
2007/08
HR Connect Assignment	Robert James Campton	3
Balance Scorecard Workshops	Deloitte	1
Completion of Business Case for Microsoft Enterprise Agreement	Goldblatt McGuigan	4
Scoping Study report in response to Flooding NI	Kainos	15
IS Security Consultancy	CESG	0.2
Web Security Consultancy	Kainos	13
Web Security Consultancy	Kainos	7
Independent Accreditation by Construction Excellence NI of maturity of Government Construction clients in embedding and achieving excellence in Construction Initiative	A Blumenthal & CENI	30
Study into Land Valuation Taxation	University of Ulster, Jordanstown	5
Survey associated with the rating of domestic vacant properties	University of Ulster, Jordanstown	3
Total Value of Contracts £'000		81.2

Departmental Travel Expenses

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel (i) how many visits he has made outside Northern Ireland since devolution; (ii) the method and cost of transportation for each trip; and (iii) the type and cost of accommodation for each trip, including details for accompanying officials.

(AQW 7299/08)

Mr N Dodds:

In his capacity as Minister for Finance and Personnel, my honourable friend Peter Robinson made 16 trips outside of Northern Ireland on Departmental business since devolution.

Details of the transportation and accommodation for each trip is attached.

The method and cost of transportation for each trip the Minister has made outside Northern Ireland since Devolution

Number	Method of Transport	Names of officials	Cost per Person flights	Cost per person Rail	Total Cost
1	Flight	Minister 3 officials	£302.45 £302.45 £302.45 £319.45		£1226.80
	Rail	Minister 3 officials		£46.00 £47.00 2 sing £47.00 2 sing £28.00	£168.00
2.	Flight	Minister 2 officials	£218.55 £218.55 £218.55		£655.65
	Flight	Minister 2 officials	£1530.65 £1530.65 £1530.65		£4591.95
	Rail	Minister 2 officials		£218.55 £218.55 £218.55	£655.65
	Flight	official	£795.65		£795.65
	Flight	Minister official	£795.65 £795.65		£1591.30
3.	Flight	Minister 3 officials	£325.25 £325.25 £325.25 £325.25		£1301.00
4.	Flight	Minister 4 officials	£319.45 £319.45 £319.45 £302.45 £302.45		£1563.25
	Rail	4 officials		£46.00 £46.00 £28.00 £28.00	£148.00
5.	Rail	Minister 5 officials		£62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £38.00 single £38.00 single	£324.00
	Flight	Minister	£206.35		£206.35
6.	Rail	Minister 7 officials		£62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £62.00 £62.00	£496.00
7.	Flight	official	£319.45		£319.45
	Rail	official		£46.00	£46.00
8.	Flight	Minister (home flight) 3 officials	£156.95 £279.45 £279.45 £279.45		£995.30
9.	Rail	2 officials		£62.00 £62.00	£124.00
10.	Flight	4 officials	£307.45 £307.45 £307.45 £307.45		£1229.80
	Rail	4 officials		£46.00 £46.00 £28.00 £28.00	£148.00
11.	No Cost	No Cost
12.	Rail	3 officials		£68.69 £68.69 £68.69	£206.07
13.	Flight	4 officials	£310.45 £310.45 £310.45 £310.45		£1241.80
	Rail	4 officials		£28.00 £28.00 £46.00 £46.00	£148.00
14.	Flight	Minister 4 officials	£303.35 £303.35 £303.35 £303.35 £303.35		£1516.75
	Rail	Minister 4 officials		£46.00 £46.00 £46.00 £46.00 £46.00	£230.00
15.	Flight	official	£310.35		£310.35
	Rail	official		£46.00	£46.00
16.	Flight	2 officials	£310.35 £310.35		£620.70
	Rail	2 officials		£28.00 £28.00	£56.00
TOTAL			Total Flights- £18,166.10	Total Rail- £2795.72	Total Travel- £20,961.82

The type and cost of accommodation for each trip

Location – all hotels	Price (Minister, PS and Special Adviser)	Officials	Price
Heathrow	381.13	N/A	381.13
Washington	2117.85	N/A	2117.85
New York	980.00	N/A	980.00
Cardiff	465.00	114.89	579.89
Dublin	435.34	285.61	720.95
Dublin	625.00	990.49	1615.49
Birmingham	645.00	215.00	860.00
Dublin	554.21	231.43	785.64
London	400.00	-	400.00
Heathrow	175.00		175.00
Dublin	776.80	210.00	986.80
London	340.76	434.76	775.52
London	556.66	542.16	1098.82
Overall total for Minister, Private Secretary and Special Adviser: £8,452.75
Overall total for Officials: £3,024.34
Overall total for Accommodation: £11,477.09

Building Control Approvals in Ballymena

Mr Dallat asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel if full building control approvals are in place for 9-11 Church Street, Ballymena.

(AQW 7389/08)

Mr N Dodds: Information relating to Building Control approvals is not held by the Department, but rather is retained by District Councils. I would direct the Member to Ballymena Borough Council for information on that specific property.

Training for Success Contracts

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel if Training For Success (TFS) contracts were awarded to Carter & Carter in 2007 despite the organisation not having arrangements in place to meet the requirements of the TFS tender to provide 'details of all sub-contractors and demonstrate how these arrangements can be delivered'.

(AQW 7717/08)

Mr N Dodds: The tender offer received from Carter & Carter provided details of proposed subcontracting and partnership arrangements which the organisation proposed to utilise in order to deliver the services under the Training for Success (TFS) programme if its tender was successful. An assessment panel of representatives from the Department for Employment and Learning assessed the information provided by Carter & Carter against a pre-agreed evaluation model and concluded that these arrangements would successfully deliver the services to the required standards of the TFS programme and that Carter & Carter had demonstrated that these arrangements could be delivered.

Training for Success Contracts

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what assessment was undertaken by the Central Procurement Directorate of the ability of training organisations to undertake Training For Success (TFS) contracts awarded in 2007, in relation to the resources, facilities and equipment of the Training Organisation and to ensure that staff were trained and qualified to deliver TFS frameworks.

(AQW 7718/08)

Mr N Dodds: Central Procurement Directorate is responsible for the management of the procurement process on behalf of its clients to ensure these processes are open, transparent, and legally compliant and deliver value for money. It is the client’s responsibility to agree the requirements and the evaluation criteria along with assessment of tenders against its agreed criteria and requirements.

Training for Success Contracts

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what steps were taken by the Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) to assess the ability of training organisations, with no previous involvement in Northern Ireland, to fulfil Training For Success (TFS) contracts under the tender process for TFS in 2007; and whether providing references is a minimum requirement of the CPD assessment.

(AQW 7719/08)

Mr N Dodds: The ability of all organisations tendering for Training for Success (TFS) contracts was assessed by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) using predetermined criteria, which were published in the invitation to tender. These criteria were:

• Relevant experience of the organisation/partnership in successfully delivering services of a similar nature;

• Organisation/partnership resources in terms of staffing and premises to deliver the provision; and

• Methodology to deliver the services required as detailed in the Terms of Reference.

Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) has no policy of using references as a minimum requirement for tender evaluation.

Training for Success Contracts

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel how the Central Procurement Directorate, in conducting a tender exercise for the award of Training For Success (TFS) contracts in 2007, awarded a contract to a training organisation when the organisation had not tendered for the contract, an outcome confirmed to the Committee for Employment and Learning by Belfast Metropolitan College at a TFS Inquiry Evidence session on 8 April 2008.

(AQW 7720/08)

Mr N Dodds: Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) did not award any Training for Success contracts to any training organisations that did not tender for the contract.

However, in two categories the tenders received did not satisfy the minimum quality standards and in accordance with Procurement Regulations the negotiated tender procedure was used with the original tenderers in those categories, to secure the provision of a service that satisfied the required quality standards.

Training for Success Contracts

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he will conduct a review of the procurement exercise in relation to the award of Training For Success (TFS) contracts in 2007, given (i) the failure of the Central Procurement Directorate to undertake rigorous assessment of the capacity of organisations to deliver on contracts, (ii) the awarding of contracts when sub-contracting proposed by training organisations was not in place when the contract was awarded, and (iii) the awarding of contracts to a training organisation when the training organisation had not submitted a tender.

(AQW 7721/08)

Mr N Dodds: I do not see a need to conduct a formal review of the procurement exercise in relation to the awarding of Training for Success contracts in 2007. Central Procurement Directorate’s procurement procedures are quality assured to ISO 9001:2000 standard, which requires a review of the procurement process to be undertaken to identify lessons learnt in the interests of continuous improvement.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel how much his Department has spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by the Department since devolution.

(AQW 7729/08)

Mr N Dodds: £84,685.56 has been spent on fuel for vehicles owned by the Department.

The Department has not leased any vehicles since devolution.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many cars are (a) owned; and (b) leased, by the Department, and for each car, its (i) make and model; (ii) engine size; (iii) type of fuel used; (iv) fuel efficiency; and (v) purpose.

(AQW 7732/08)

Mr N Dodds: There are currently 19 cars owned by the Department of Finance and Personnel. Details on the make and model, engine size, type of fuel used, fuel efficiency and purpose are provided in the attached table.

The Department currently leases no cars.

Make and Model	No of vehicles	Engine size	Fuel	Efficiency	CO2	Purpose
Skoda Superb	14	1958cc	Diesel	54 mpg	169	Ministerial & senior official Transport
Peugeot 607	2	2179cc	Diesel	40 mpg	193	Ministerial Transport
Toyota Prius	2	1497cc	Petrol/Hybrid	54 mpg	104	Transportation of officials
Volkswagen Caravelle People Carrier	1	2461	Diesel	35.8	257	Transportation of Ministerial and official groups

Use of Aircraft in the Stormont Estate

Mr Spratt asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel if any restrictions on the use of aircraft in the grounds of the Stormont Estate are in place.

(AQW 7832/08)

Mr N Dodds: It is our understanding that the airspace over the Stormont Estate is not restricted. Any private aircraft wishing to land in the Stormont Estate must conform to Civil Aviation Authority protocols and also gain permission from the Estate Management Unit (EMU) within DFP. Landings are normally restricted to military and VIP landings and all must use the designated landing areas.

EMU have had only one request since devolution and this was from the deputy First Minister on Thursday 5^th June 2008.

All Landing areas within the Stormont Estate conform to strict RAF standards and have been approved by the RAF for use. Each site has fire extinguishers and is closed off before landing to ensure the safety of both the helicopter and passers by. During landing EMU staff, equipped with the necessary high visibility clothing, ensure that passers-by cannot get near the landing aircraft. During take off staff ensure the safety of those on the ground by imposing the required cordon round the aircraft.

Use of Aircraft in the Stormont Estate

Mr Spratt asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel if any requests have been received for the landing of aircraft in the grounds of the Stormont Estate since the restoration of devolution.

(AQW 7833/08)

Mr N Dodds: It is our understanding that the airspace over the Stormont Estate is not restricted. Any private aircraft wishing to land in the Stormont Estate must conform to Civil Aviation Authority protocols and also gain permission from the Estate Management Unit (EMU) within DFP. Landings are normally restricted to military and VIP landings and all must use the designated landing areas.

EMU have had only one request since devolution and this was from the deputy First Minister on Thursday 5^th June 2008.

All Landing areas within the Stormont Estate conform to strict RAF standards and have been approved by the RAF for use. Each site has fire extinguishers and is closed off before landing to ensure the safety of both the helicopter and passers by. During landing EMU staff, equipped with the necessary high visibility clothing, ensure that passers-by cannot get near the landing aircraft. During take off staff ensure the safety of those on the ground by imposing the required cordon round the aircraft.

Use of Aircraft in the Stormont Estate

Mr Spratt asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what health and safety measures are put in place (i) prior to landing; (ii) during landing and (iii) during take off, of an aircraft in the grounds of the Stormont Estate.

(AQW 7834/08)

Mr N Dodds: It is our understanding that the airspace over the Stormont Estate is not restricted. Any private aircraft wishing to land in the Stormont Estate must conform to Civil Aviation Authority protocols and also gain permission from the Estate Management Unit (EMU) within DFP. Landings are normally restricted to military and VIP landings and all must use the designated landing areas.

EMU have had only one request since devolution and this was from the deputy First Minister on Thursday 5^th June 2008.

All Landing areas within the Stormont Estate conform to strict RAF standards and have been approved by the RAF for use. Each site has fire extinguishers and is closed off before landing to ensure the safety of both the helicopter and passers by. During landing EMU staff, equipped with the necessary high visibility clothing, ensure that passers-by cannot get near the landing aircraft. During take off staff ensure the safety of those on the ground by imposing the required cordon round the aircraft.

Loans and Mortgages

Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel if he will hold discussions with credit and finance companies to ensure they make provision for customers who use townland addresses rather than street addresses when applying for loans and mortgages.

(AQW 8036/08)

Mr N Dodds: My department is aware of the difficulties that are being encountered by householders who use townland, rather than street addresses. The naming and numbering of properties, however, is a matter for local authorities. I am willing to consider proposals from relevant local authorities to overcome these difficulties.

Rate Collection Agency

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the elements taken into account by the Rate Collection Agency when assessing the rateable value of a dwelling; if (i) the actual footprint of the property; or (ii) the conversion of a roof space to provide extra rooms, are included; and if these matters are clearly notified to householders by the Rate Collection Agency.

(AQW 8046/08)

Mr N Dodds: The elements taken into account by Land and Property Services (LPS) (incorporating the former Rate Collection Agency) when assessing the rateable value of a dwelling are detailed on the LPS website at www.lpsni.gov.uk. The most important factors are size, location, type (for example, detached, semi-detached, terrace) grade of construction, external repair, existence of garaging, services connected, and site factors which influence value, such as proximity to a waste tip or having a sea view.

1. The total gross floor area (measured externally) of all habitable space is taken into account rather than the actual footprint of the property.
2. The conversion of a roof space to provide extra rooms will increase the gross habitable floor area, and will be taken into account.

All ratepayers are notified in writing of any change to the capital value assessment. In addition, the LPS website provides details of the actual floor area used in the valuation assessment of each domestic property.

Departmental Electrical Equipment

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel the number of blackberry devices the Department has purchased since devolution.

(AQW 8105/08)

Mr N Dodds: The Department of Finance and Personnel has purchased 120 blackberry devices since May 2007.

Health, Social Services and Public Safety

Contracts for Consultancy Services

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to provide, for each of the last 4 years, (i) how many contracts for consultancy services his Department has awarded, which did not have to go out to public tender; (ii) a brief description and value of each contract; and (iii) to whom these contracts have been awarded.

(AQW 6905/08)

The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Mr M McGimpsey): During each of the past three years my Department has awarded contracts for consultancy services which did not go out to public tender as follows:-

2005/06 36

2006/07 36

2007/08 15

A brief description of each contract, alongside its value (expenditure) and to whom the contract was awarded, is recorded within the attached tables.

Information sought for the 2004/05 year is not held centrally and would require a special departmental wide exercise to be commissioned. It was therefore considered that to collect information for 2004/05 would incur a disproportionate cost.

Departmental Phone Numbers

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, his Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7562/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The following health and social care organisations have operated without profit the following numbers for the indicated service:

Organisation	Number	Service
South Eastern Trust	0845 6032179	Doctors on Call and District Nursing Out of Hours Lagan Valley Hospital
Northern Board	0845 7626428	Patient/Client Information Service
Northern Trust	0845 6003111	Centralized call system to arrange district nursing calls
Health Promotion Agency	0845 6032500	For members of public to report failure to comply with no smoking legislation

Average Waiting Times in Accident and Emergency Wards

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what the average waiting times are for people to be seen in Accident and Emergency wards, broken down by hospital.

(AQW 7628/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not available.

Dementia Services

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 6569/08, what plans he has to provide future funding of 'professional training programmes' and 'tailored one-off programmes', referred to in his answer, for groups such as GPs in the area of dementia.

(AQW 7645/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: As I explained in my earlier answer (AQW 6569/08), improving awareness of dementia will be a key part of the strategy for improving dementia services which is currently being prepared by my Department.

But until the training requirements have been identified and quantified, which will have to be done in conjunction with all the relevant health and social care stakeholders, and until an implementation plan has been agreed, which would include the estimated costs for the training programmes required, I will not be in a position to allocate specific funding for this purpose.

Psychotherapy Services

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans he has to encourage the provision of psychotherapy in the Health and Social Care Trusts, as part of a bio-psychosocial approach in mental health services in an age-blind way.

(AQW 7646/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My Department is currently considering the best way to promote the development of a range of psychological therapies, in order to supplement the psychiatric and pharmacological interventions already available. I am aware that, as the Bamford Review noted, the prevalence of mental health disorders is relatively high in later life, and I will expect these new psychotherapy services, along with all the other interventions currently provided by our mainstream mental health services, to be available to everyone who requires them, solely on the basis of clinical need, and without any ageist basis.

Dementia Services

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 6566/08, to comment on how the need for dementia respite is being met with the additional funding he acquired; and given the recent underspend of £55 million, what his future allocation of funding will be.

(AQW 7648/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I have made £1.85m available over the next three years to fund additional respite care for people with dementia. This would secure approximately 3,700 bed weeks of respite care, which Trusts would obtain from providers who meet the required standards. However, it is important that support services are flexible and tailored to the particular circumstances of the person with dementia, and some of this funding could allow individuals with dementia to receive respite within their own homes in the way that best supports their domestic arrangements.

Dementia Services

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 5630/08, given the recent underspend of £55 million, what his future allocation of funding will be in relation to the 'awareness training' for GPs and other healthcare professionals in the area of pre-senile dementia.

(AQW 7649/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Recognition of early onset dementia is an important component of the overall development of dementia awareness. My Department’s strategy on improving dementia services will consider how best to deliver early onset awareness training, particularly for GPs, who usually make the initial assessment of the possibility of this condition. However, it will be included as an element of a balanced programme of dementia awareness training for all health and social care stakeholders. And, as I explained in reply to an associated question (AQW/7645/08), until all the training requirements have been identified and quantified, and until a costed implementation plan has been agreed, I will not be in a position to allocate specific funding for this purpose.

Dementia Services

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 3776/08, given the recent underspend of £55 million, what his future allocation of funding will be in relation to dementia care in the context of an increasing elderly population.

(AQW 7650/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I am aware that, on current projections, the increasing life expectancy of our population will see a substantial increase in the numbers of people with dementia. However, if borne out, this expected increase will be progressive, not sudden, so I want to see a well thought out and measured approach to this issue. I have begun this process by commissioning the development of a strategy on improving dementia care, in train with the implementation of the Bamford Review recommendations, which will be informed by the experience of all the health and social care stakeholders involved in this area.

As an immediate measure, I have made £1.85m available over the next three years to fund additional respite places for people with dementia.

Services for Individuals at Risk of Self-Harm

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 4693/08, and given the recent underspend of £55 million, what his future allocation of funding will be in relation to services for individuals at risk of self-harm.

(AQW 7685/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

As I said in my response to AQW 4693/08, I am very concerned about the level of services for individuals at risk of self harm.

Responsibility for the assessment of the need for these services rests with the Health and Social Services Boards, who commission such provision from the Health and Social Care Trusts or the independent sector. I am encouraging the Boards and Trusts to use some of the additional funds allocated for mental health through the Comprehensive Spending Review for the development of self-harm services over the next 3 years, where such need has been identified.

Overall in 2007-08 DHSSPS under spent against its estimated DEL revenue outcome budget by £55m which is 1.4% of our Budget. This was better than all but one other Department.

The Capital underspend is 1.5% which is an excellent outcome representing good management of the Budget and strong discipline by Trusts. This is significantly better than any other Department.

The main reason for the revenue underspend is that the service has been more successful than expected in increasing the use of generic drugs and reducing drugs expenditure. The spend against the drugs budget was some £20m less than expected.The net underspend against budget for all Health and Social Care (HSC) expenditure was £29.3m (or 1%) and arose as a result of delays in recruitment of staff and/or opening of new facilities.

Clostridium Difficile

Mr Molloy asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people were admitted to each hospital with clostridium difficile in (i) 2007; and (ii) 2008.

(AQW 7686/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not available. For Trusts, the information available for this time period through the mandatory surveillance scheme for Clostridium difficile is the total number of patients aged 65 years and over from whom a diarrhoeal specimen tested positive for C. difficile toxin during the relevant time period. It has not been possible to identify how many of these patients were admitted to hospital with C. difficile.

Childhood Leukaemia

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for the incidence of childhood leukaemia over the last ten years, broken down by (i) health board area; and (ii) age group.

(AQW 7703/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The tables below detail the number of incidences of childhood leukaemia in Northern Ireland overall by health board area and age group over the last ten years. Incidences of all Leukaemia (ICD-10 C91-C95) and Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia (ICD-10 C91 only) are detailed.

Table 1: Incidence of childhood leukaemia in NI, for the years 1996-2005 inclusive

Age bands	Eastern Health Board		Northern Health Board		Southern Health Board		Western Health Board
	All Leukaemia	Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia	All Leukaemia	Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia	All Leukaemia	Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia	All Leukaemia	Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia
0 to 4	26	17	16	11	17	14	14	12
5 to 9	18	14	14	14	10	9	9	8
10 to 14	11	8	5	5	9	9	6	<5

Notes:

1. To protect the anonymity of individuals, where cells contain less than 5 incidences, they are labelled as "<5".
2. Childhood includes any patient that is under 15 years of age.
3. Acute Lymphoid Leukaemia is the most common form of Leukaemia and also has the worst survival rate.

This information was provided by the NI Cancer Registry and is the most up-to-date available.

Doctor-On-Call Service in the Ards Borough

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why the doctor-on-call service in the Ards Borough will be reduced to one vehicle; and why the availability hours of this service are only from 11pm to 1pm the following afternoon.

(AQW 7706/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust GP Out of Hours Service, having consulted with GP representatives, have made a number of minor operational changes to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness during the hours after 10pm, when the call volumes to the service are significantly lower.

The Trust has made a slight adjustment to the number of doctors working from the out of hours centre after 10pm each evening. However, the hours of cover and number of vehicles available for home visits has remained unchanged - there are also doctors on standby to cover contingencies. Furthermore, the Trust has reinvested the savings arising from these operational changes to increase the number of doctors available during busier times in the out of hours period, for example weekend mornings and public holidays.

There will be no reduction in services for patients within the Ards Borough area who will continue to receive telephone advice from a doctor (65% of patients contacting the service are managed in this manner), the opportunity to attend a doctor at the Out of Hours Centre at Ards Hospital (24% of patients) or, where appropriate, a home visit (11% of patients) during the Out of Hours period.

South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust will monitor the impact of these minor operational changes to ensure they continue to provide a high quality, safe, effective and efficient service to patients.

In the last two years, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust GP Out of Hours Service (formerly known as Doctor on Call) has conducted 9602 consultations for patients in the BT22 postcode area and 28203 consultations for patients in the BT23 area.

Doctor-On-Call Service in the Ards Borough

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people have used the doctor on call service in the Ards Borough over the last two years.

(AQW 7708/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust GP Out of Hours Service, having consulted with GP representatives, have made a number of minor operational changes to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness during the hours after 10pm, when the call volumes to the service are significantly lower.

The Trust has made a slight adjustment to the number of doctors working from the out of hours centre after 10pm each evening. However, the hours of cover and number of vehicles available for home visits has remained unchanged - there are also doctors on standby to cover contingencies. Furthermore, the Trust has reinvested the savings arising from these operational changes to increase the number of doctors available during busier times in the out of hours period, for example weekend mornings and public holidays.

There will be no reduction in services for patients within the Ards Borough area who will continue to receive telephone advice from a doctor (65% of patients contacting the service are managed in this manner), the opportunity to attend a doctor at the Out of Hours Centre at Ards Hospital (24% of patients) or, where appropriate, a home visit (11% of patients) during the Out of Hours period.

South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust will monitor the impact of these minor operational changes to ensure they continue to provide a high quality, safe, effective and efficient service to patients.

In the last two years, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust GP Out of Hours Service (formerly known as Doctor on Call) has conducted 9602 consultations for patients in the BT22 postcode area and 28203 consultations for patients in the BT23 area.

Doctor-On-Call Service in the Ards Borough

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why the out of hours doctor-on-call service at the Ards hospital has been reduced by one hour for each vehicle.

(AQW 7709/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust GP Out of Hours Service, having consulted with GP representatives, have made a number of minor operational changes to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness during the hours after 10pm, when the call volumes to the service are significantly lower.

The Trust has made a slight adjustment to the number of doctors working from the out of hours centre after 10pm each evening. However, the hours of cover and number of vehicles available for home visits has remained unchanged - there are also doctors on standby to cover contingencies. Furthermore, the Trust has reinvested the savings arising from these operational changes to increase the number of doctors available during busier times in the out of hours period, for example weekend mornings and public holidays.

There will be no reduction in services for patients within the Ards Borough area who will continue to receive telephone advice from a doctor (65% of patients contacting the service are managed in this manner), the opportunity to attend a doctor at the Out of Hours Centre at Ards Hospital (24% of patients) or, where appropriate, a home visit (11% of patients) during the Out of Hours period.

South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust will monitor the impact of these minor operational changes to ensure they continue to provide a high quality, safe, effective and efficient service to patients.

In the last two years, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust GP Out of Hours Service (formerly known as Doctor on Call) has conducted 9602 consultations for patients in the BT22 postcode area and 28203 consultations for patients in the BT23 area.

Rehabilitation Services to Blind and Partially Sighted People

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the continuing professional development of staff providing rehabilitation services to blind and partially sighted people.

(AQW 7711/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

Continuous professional development of rehabilitation workers includes:

1. regional arrangements that identify and provide a minimum of two specifically tailored training programmes each year for staff providing rehabilitation services to blind and partially-sighted people;
2. access to in-service training opportunities, based on individual learning needs, to enhance knowledge and skills in working with adults or children in need;
3. a new regional Sensory Impairment Training Strategy is currently being developed.

Homes Near High Voltage Power Lines

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he has any reports or evidence which indicate that homes built within 60 metres of high voltage power lines pose health risks for residents of such homes.

(AQW 7713/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

In 2004, the National Radiological Protection Board (now the Radiation Protection Division of the Health Protection Agency) recommended the adoption in the UK of guidelines from the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection for limiting exposures to Extremely Low Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields (ELF EMFs). This was backed up by a thorough review of the relevant scientific evidence. This advice remains extant and is couched in terms of time weighted average levels of electric and magnetic field rather than distance from any particular appliance or installation. 

The evidence to date suggests that in general there are no adverse effects on the health of the population of the UK caused by exposure to ELF EMFs below the guideline levels.

Health Professionals in the North West

Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, in light of the recent resignations from Altnagelvin Hospital and the lack of dentistry care in the North West, what measures his Department employs to attract and retain high-calibre health professionals to the Western Health and Social Care Trust.

(AQW 7714/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The recruitment and retention of staff is a matter for individual Health and Social Care Trusts, taking into account factors such as service needs and available resources. The Western HSC Trust has advised that work has begun on the recruitment process to fill the recently vacated consultant posts at Altnagelvin.

My Department does not have responsibility for the recruitment and retention of staff at Trust level, but has a role in ensuring that sufficient suitably qualified and trained staff are available to meet the overall regional needs of the health and personal social services.

To help maintain a supply of suitably qualified staff, my Department has provided additional funding over the last two years to increase the number of graduate dental training places in Northern Ireland from 28 to 40. Work is also underway with the 4 HSC Boards to develop a tender to recruit additional dentists in areas where patients are experiencing problems in accessing health service dentists, which includes areas in the Western Health and Social Care Trust. It is hoped to tender for these additional dentists during the summer of 2008.

Training levels and the supply and demand for all health professionals are monitored as part of the Department’s ongoing programme of Workforce Planning reviews.

Agenda for Change

Mr McGlone asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if there will be consistency in banding and consequent pay levels for all employees who carry out the same roles and responsibilities, including all homecare manager positions, under the Agenda for Change process in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.

(AQW 7715/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Yes, under the Agenda for Change arrangements there will be consistency in pay for those who carry out jobs that have the same level of responsibility. In the Northern Health and Social Care Trust all jobs were assigned to an Agenda for Change pay band based on the information contained in the job descriptions, personnel specifications and comments sheets completed by the individual staff members. The difference in the grading of homecare managers reflects the different responsibilities in each job and confirms that comparisons made solely on job titles or perceived responsibilities are not reliable.

Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline his reasons for the possible closure of the Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital, given the recent media reports that the system is already under huge strain.

(AQW 7723/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The proposed transfer of inpatient obstetrics from Lagan Valley Hospital is one part of a range of proposals submitted by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to achieve 3% efficiency targets per annum across the comprehensive spending review (CSR) period in line with Executive agreement.

This particular proposal is consistent with my Department’s strategy for the development of acute hospital services in Northern Ireland Developing Better Services, which set out requirements for safe maternity services and indicated that there would be nine consultant-led maternity units located in acute hospitals. Lagan Valley Hospital was identified as a local hospital and would not be expected to provide consultant-led maternity services in the longer term.

I will not be making decisions on the South Eastern Trust’s proposals for the future of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital until the implications for patients, staff and the wider health system are clearly established.

Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the impact on the residents of Craigavon and West Belfast if the Lagan Valley Hospital were to close its Maternity Unit.

(AQW 7724/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I would expect Boards and Trusts to fully assess the impact of any proposed changes to the current provision of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital before I take any decision.

Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the concerns expressed by representatives of the Royal College of Midwives and the Chair of the Regional Group of Maternity Liaison Committees, in relation to any possible change in the status of the Lagan Valley Hospital Maternity Unit.

(AQW 7725/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I have not received any direct representations from the Royal College of Midwives or the Chair of the Regional Group of Maternity Liaison Committees about the maternity unit at Lagan Valley Hospital, although I am aware of concerns expressed by them in the media.

As I have indicated previously, ensuring safe and effective maternity services is one of my key priorities and I will not be making decisions on the future provision of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital until the implications for patients, staff and the wider health system are clearly established.

Planned Caesarean Sections

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many planned caesarean sections were carried out at each maternity unit, in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7726/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The table below sets out the number of planned caesarean sections that were carried out in each maternity unit in Northern Ireland in the last three calendar years.

Hospital	2005	2006	2007
Altnagelvin	288	284	363
Antrim	337	400	383
Causeway	142	127	139
Craigavon Area	486	525	648
Daisy Hill	243	250	268
Erne	172	153	208
Lagan Valley	73	74	77
Mater	177	156	171
Mid-Ulster	43	60	0
Royal Jubilee Maternity Service	852	855	961
Ulster	258	250	288
Northern Ireland	3071	3134	3506

Source: Child Health System

Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what is his assessment of the additional expenditure that would be incurred through the expansion of the maternity units at Craigavon Area Hospital and the Royal Victoria Hospital, in comparison to the savings to be made through the proposed closure of Lagan Valley Hospital Maternity Unit.

(AQW 7727/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

Ensuring safe and effective maternity services to the population of Northern Ireland is one of my key priorities. I would expect Boards and Trusts to assess the financial implications of any proposed changes to the current provision of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital before I take any decision.

However decisions on the future provision of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital will not be based on financial considerations alone. The quality and safety of care to be provided to mothers and their babies will be overriding factor.

Ambulance Station at John Street in Newtownards

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he is taking to replace the ambulances in the Ambulance Station at John Street, Newtownards.

(AQW 7737/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I have made available some £14.5 million for capital funding to modernise the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) fleet, estate, equipment and IT infrastructure during the Comprehensive Spending Review period to 2011. NIAS has advised me that it plans to spend £10.4 million of this amount on its fleet replacement programme subject, of course, to the submission and appropriate approval of business cases to support the expenditure.

NIAS’s fleet is managed as a regional resource and the programme of replacement will take account of local factors specific to Newtownards Ambulance Station such as the age and condition of its existing vehicles.

Front Line Children's Services

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what has been the outcome of the discussions with Playboard in relation to front line children's services.

(AQW 7738/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: DHSSPS involvement for the support of afterschool provision with regard to Children and Young People’s Package monies has been solely to act as a funding mechanism for centrally earmarked resources. Even though this funding arrangement and DHSSPS remit ended on 31 March 2008, I extended funding to afterschool groups until 30 June 2008, using my own resources, to enable them to continue until the end of the school year.

While I do not consider that these projects come under my area of responsibility, I am not prepared to see them abandoned as they play a valuable role in helping to support children and their families. I have therefore decided that I will extend this funding from 30 June 2008 until the end of this calendar year. I understand that discussions will be on-going in relation to where departmental responsibility for childcare and these projects lie.

This arrangement will give the after school projects time to plan for their future.

Northern Ireland Ambulance Service

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to explain the reasons for the delay in the ambulance attending the emergency request at 77 Portaferry Road, Cloughy, on 24 December 2007.

(AQW 7739/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: In the answer I gave to AQW 6964/2008, I stated that the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) received an emergency call for this address on 25 December 2007. It has now been brought to my attention by NIAS that the call was indeed received on 24 December 2007 and I apologise to the member for any inconvenience caused by this error. However, in all other aspects, the details of my previous answer remain the same.

Free Prescriptions

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many free prescriptions have been processed in the last three years.

(AQW 7746/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

The numbers of prescription items dispensed free of charge for the last three years are detailed below. These figures comprise prescription items dispensed to people who hold a prepayment certificate and to those who are exempt from paying. It is not possible to provide separate figures.

YEAR	PRESCRIPTIONS EXEMPT
2007	28,978,576
2006	27,506,634
2005	26,334,169

Prozac Prescriptions

Mr Burns asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) how many prescriptions have been issued for Prozac; and (ii) how much this has cost the Health Service, in each of the last 10 years.

(AQW 7757/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is only available for the last 8 years.

Year	Prozac Prescriptions	Cost
2000	105348	£2,732,917.09
2001	47909	£1,328,108.98
2002	29,286	£701,096.00
2003	23,961	£612,554.59
2004	20,110	£537,967.00
2005	13,780	£403,052.70
2006	8756	£275,142.29
2007	5290	£161,924.00
Totals	254,440	£6,752,762.65

The main reasons for the decrease in the number and cost of prescriptions for Prozac since 2000 are the introduction and increased prescribing of the generic versions of the drug. It should not be taken from this that the need for drugs such as Prozac has diminished over the period detailed above.

Stomach Stapling Operations

Mr Burns asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many obesity related stomach stapling operations have been performed in each of the last 5 years; and how much it has cost the Health Service to carry out these operations.

(AQW 7758/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Over the last five years from 2002/2003 to 2006/2007 there have been less than five obesity related stomach stapling operations, also known as bariatric surgery, carried out in Northern Ireland.

Total expenditure on obesity related stomach stapling operations for the past five years, is not available

Cremation Fees

Mr McCarthy asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he is taking to remove fees for the release of a body for cremation.

(AQW 7762/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I refer the Member to my previous answer to AQW 7185/08.

Prosecutions for Selling Tobacco to Underage Customers

Mr Burns asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many retailers have been prosecuted for selling tobacco products to underage customers in each year since 2005, broken down by district council area; and to detail the fines issued in each case.

(AQW 7763/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Details of prosecutions for sales of tobacco products to underage customers in each year since 2005, broken down by district council and the fines imposed, are shown in the following table.

Council	Prosecutions 2005	Fines 2005	Prosecutions 2006	Fines 2006	Prosecutions 2007	Fines 2007
Belfast	-	-	1	£300	-	-
Craigavon	2	£150 & £250	-	-	-	-
Ballymena	1	£200	-	-	-	-
Cookstown	3	£150, £200 & £300	-	-	-	-

My Department funded the appointment of 12 additional environmental health officers in 2007/08 to help councils enforce smoke-free legislation. Funding is ongoing and is now linked to enhanced enforcement activity in relation to underage sales.

Figures available so far for 2008 show that Belfast City Council has taken 1 prosecution with the retailer fined £50. Magherafelt District Council has taken 7 prosecutions with 2 retailers fined £100 each, 3 fined £250 each and 2 given conditional discharges. In addition, a further 14 prosecutions are under consideration by councils.

Maternity Units

Mr Craig asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what is the maximum number of women that could be accommodated at any one time in each of the maternity units.

(AQW 7772/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The total number of beds in maternity units in Northern Ireland is 410. Consequently, the number of women that can be accommodated at any one time in each of the maternity units in N. Ireland is as follows:

Maternity Unit	Maximum numbers
Royal Jubliee Maternity Service	88
Mater Hospital	22
Altnagelvin Area Hospital	45
Erne Hospital	34
Antrim Area Hospital	58
Causeway Hospital	27
Ulster Hospital	39
Lagan Valley Hospital	19
Craigavon Area Hospital	51
Daisy Hill Hospital	27

These numbers are inclusive of antenatal, postnatal and labour beds. Capacity is calculated by using information such as bed numbers, case mix, interventions and length of stay. Consequently, capacity can change as clinical practice changes.

Maternity Units

Mr Craig asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many complaints were received at each of the maternity units in 2006-2007.

(AQW 7773/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of complaints received by each of the maternity units in the period 1 April 2006 – 31 March 2007 is as follows:

Maternity Unit	Number of complaints
Antrim Area Hospital	7
Mid Ulster Hospital	3
Causeway Hospital	8
Ulster Hospital	12
Lagan Valley	5
Altnagelvin Area Hospital	12
Erne Hospital	3
Craigavon Area Hospital	30
Daisy Hill Hospital	16
Royal Jubilee Maternity Service	21
Mater Hospital	0
TOTAL	117

Births in Daisy Hill Hospital

Mr Craig asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many births there were at Daisy Hill hospital in each of the last five years; and what is the maximum number of births the maternity unit could accommodate in a year.

(AQW 7774/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of births at Daisy Hill Hospital in each of the last five financial years is given in the table below.

Year	Number of Births
2003/04	1,820
2004/05	1,931
2005/06	1,908
2006/07	2,010
2007/08	2,200

Source: Child Health System.

Information on the maximum number of births the maternity unit could accommodate in a year is unavailable.

Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Craig asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what criteria he will use when making a decision on the possible closure of the maternity unit at Lagan Valley Hospital.

(AQW 7775/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The proposed transfer of inpatient obstetrics from Lagan Valley Hospital is one part of a range of proposals submitted by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to achieve 3% efficiency targets per annum across the comprehensive spending review (CSR) period in line with Executive agreement.

This particular proposal is consistent with my Department’s strategy for the development of acute hospital services in Northern Ireland Developing Better Services, which set out requirements for safe maternity services and indicated that there would be nine consultant-led maternity units located in acute hospitals. Lagan Valley Hospital was identified as a local hospital and would not be expected to provide consultant-led maternity services in the longer term.

I will not be making decisions on the South Eastern Trust’s proposals for the future of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital until all the implications for patients, staff and the wider health system are clearly established.

Maternity Unit at Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Craig asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when a decision will be made on the future of the Lagan Valley Hospital maternity unit.

(AQW 7776/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I will not be making decisions on the South Eastern Trust’s proposal to transfer inpatient obstetric services from Lagan Valley Hospital until all the implications for patients, staff and the wider health system are clearly established.

Respite Care

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many young people aged 18 and over currently receive respite services in care homes primarily intended for use by older people in each Health and Social Care Trust area.

(AQW 7802/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information is not available in the form requested.

Respite Care

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many of the 400 young people on waiting lists for respite care, indicated in July 2007, have now reached the age of 18 and must now avail of adult services; and to provide an update on the figures provided in July 2007 for respite services for young people.

(AQW 7803/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not available.

The figure of 400, quoted in the Assembly in 2007 was an estimated figure provided as part of a larger piece of work carried out to give a snapshot of respite services at that point in time.

Respite Care

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many young people aged 18 and over are currently on waiting lists for respite care in each Health and Social Care Trust area.

(AQW 7804/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information is not available centrally on the number of young people aged 18 and over waiting for respite care in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas.

Respite Care

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how much additional funding he allocated for respite care for young people with special needs for the financial years 2007-08 and 2008-09; and how many additional places does this represent.

(AQW 7805/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: It is not possible to detail the specific additional expenditure spent on respite in 2007/08 as this information is not held centrally.

I have secured £7m from the Comprehensive Spending Review for learning disability services in 2008/09. Some of this funding will be used to provide an additional 50 new or enhanced respite packages for people with learning difficulties. This will provide respite for a minimum of 200 people.

A further £1m has been secured in 2008/09 for physical and sensory disability services and part of this funding will be used to provide an additional 50 new or enhanced respite packages for people with physical and/or sensory disabilities and their carers/families.

These additional respite packages will benefit children, young people and adults. It is not possible to provide separate information for each of these groups.

Smear Test Results

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how long it should take for smear test results to be received.

(AQW 7889/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Cervical Screening Programme in Northern Ireland is currently subject to a clinical standard which states that 80% of women should have received their results of a smear in writing within 4 weeks, with 100% receiving results within 6 weeks.

Removal of Administrative Posts

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many administrative posts are to be removed in the Western Health and Social Care Trust area, broken down by (i) senior manager level; and (ii) all other posts.

(AQW 7940/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Final figures are not available at this point in time.

Patient Notes in Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many patient notes have been lost or mislaid in Altnagelvin Hospital in each of the last three years.

(AQW 7941/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not held.

Departmental Underspend

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what services will be affected as a result of a £54.8 million underspend by his Department.

(AQW 7942/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My objective is to ensure that all available resources are fully spent in the most efficient and effective way possible.

While underspending was not contained within the 1% target this year, I am pleased to note that our underspend of 1.4% was better than all but one other Department. The Health and Social Care bodies have again shown that they can maintain financial discipline, achieve breakeven, deliver on challenging targets and provide services more efficiently.

The main reason for the revenue underspend falling outside the 1% target is that the service has been more successful than expected in increasing the use of generic drugs and reducing drugs expenditure. The spend against the drugs budget was some £20m less than expected. I welcome this reduction in prescription costs but would have wished to have had an earlier indication of the success.

This has limited impact on services, as needs were simply met more economically. Even if identified in the last monitoring round, the underspending would have been returned to DFP for redistribution across all departments.

Departmental Underspend

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the reasons for a £54.8 million underspend by his Department.

(AQW 7943/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The objective for all Departments is to avoid overspend and to keep revenue underspends to within 1%. Overall in 2007-08 DHSSPS under spent against its estimated DEL revenue outcome budget by £54.8m which is 1.4% of our Budget.

There are a number of factors which have contributed to this underspend and two areas account for almost 90% of the total underspend.

The prescription drugs budget was underspent by some £20m which is just over one third of the total 2007/08 underspend and is due to of the Health Service being more successful than expected in increasing the use of generic drugs and therefore reducing drugs expenditure. While I would have liked to have kept the underspend within the target of 1%, I welcome the reduction in the expenditure on prescription drugs.

The second area is an underspend of £29.3m on the Health and Social Care (HSC) budget, which represents about 1% of the total allocated budget. This has arisen mainly because of delays in the recruitment of staff and opening of new facilities.

The remaining 10% of the total underspend is associated with underspends in the ring fenced areas of pharmaceutical remuneration, HSC training and the GP contract which have been partially offset by an overspend on the amount required to provide for future clinical negligence claims.

Departmental Underspend

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps he is taking to address high underspends within his Department.

(AQW 7944/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My Department does not have high underspends compared to other Departments. The objective for all Departments is to keep revenue underspends to within 1%. Overall in 2007-08 DHSSPS under spent against its estimated DEL revenue outcome budget by £55m which is 1.4% of our Budget. This was better than all but one other Department.

The Capital underspend is 1.5% which is an excellent outcome representing good management of the Budget and strong discipline by Trusts. This is significantly better than any other Department.

There is of course room for improvement and, for 2008-09 I have strengthened the performance management arrangements for HSC bodies - setting a PfA target for a minimum of 90% of new service development monies to be spent as intended in the CSR. Budget holders have also been advised that they should return any easements early in the year so that they can be re-utilised for other priorities in health and social care.

Osteoporosis Sufferers

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 7401/08, to confirm what alternative treatment, other than Alendronate, is available for osteoporosis sufferers in the Health Service.

(AQW 7994/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Drug interventions for osteoporosis may include calcium and vitamin D supplements bisphosphonates, strontium ranelate, raloxifene, calcitonin and parathyroid hormone. Alendronate belongs to the group of drugs called bisphosphonates. If a patient has not tolerated the first one tried, an alternative bisphosphonate may be prescribed. If these are unsuitable, patients may be considered for other drug treatments, as recommended by their GP/healthcare professional in consultation with the patient and based upon the best evidence available.

Internal and Home Transfer of Patients

Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to provide statistical information on the frequency of internal and home transfer of patients in the (i) Northern Health Board area; and (ii) Altnagelvin Hospital site, by (a) intensive care vehicles; and (b) patient care service vehicles, which are stationed at Omagh, in each of the last 6 months.

(AQW 8029/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) provides patient transport, such as inter-hospital transfers or hospital discharges, using patient care service (PCS) or intermediate care service (ICS) vehicles. PCS vehicles normally transport patients who are mobile while ICS vehicles transport patients with mobility difficulties or who need clinical intervention, such as oxygen therapy, but not paramedical care.

The table below shows inter-hospital transfers and discharges in the Northern Health and Social Services Board (NHSSB) area and from Altnagelvin Hospital carried out by NIAS's PCS and ICS vehicles based in Omagh during the period ended 31 May 2008. NIAS's records do not differentiate between PCS and ICS vehicle activity.

NHSSB

	Dec	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Total
Discharges	0	3	2	7	5	3	20
Inter-hospital transfers	5	4	9	1	5	2	26

Altnagelvin Hospital

	Dec	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Total
Discharge	6	21	12	13	4	14	70
Inter-hospital transfers	25	31	26	15	15	17	129

GP Surgery in Trillick Enterprise Centre

Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if the assessment of potential premises for a GP surgery in Trillick Enterprise Centre has concluded; what is the outcome of this assessment; and to confirm whether the Trillick surgery will be operational in early 2009.

(AQW 8103/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Officials in the Western Health and Social Services Board have advised that the planning application for the proposed premises has been submitted to Omagh District Council for the conversion of the building at the rear of the Trillick Enterprise Centre and subject to the planning permission being granted, the Board expect that the premises would be operational early in 2009.

Regional Development

M1/Westlink Road Improvement Scheme

Mr Spratt asked the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the M1/Westlink Road Improvement scheme.

(AQW 7552/08)

The Minister for Regional Development (Mr C Murphy): My Department’s Roads Service has advised that the M1/Westlink Improvement Scheme is progressing well. The contracted completion date remains as August 2009, however, the contractor is currently ahead of programme.

You will be aware that the new underpass and slip roads at the Grosvenor Road junction have been completed and were opened to the public in March 2008.

The new pedestrian footbridge erected over the Westlink, at the Roden Street junction, also opened to the public in March 2008, while the segregated busway between Broadway and Roden Street is on target for completion later this month, with alterations to Roden Street/Mulhouse Road junction with Westlink expected to be completed this summer.

The improvement works at Stockman’s Lane junction have been completed and the new road layout was opened to the public in May 2008. These works include the construction of two new bridges to carry the M1 over Stockman’s Lane and the roundabout at this junction widened to create three circulating lanes. New traffic lights, including a pedestrian phase, making it safer for pedestrians to cross the junction between Stockman’s Lane and Kennedy Way, have been installed and switched on.

The construction of the new Broadway underpass is expected to be completed this summer while the new Roundabout, and the on/off slip roads to connect the roundabout with the M1 and Westlink, are expected to be completed by spring 2009.

Departmental Phone Numbers

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, his Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7563/08)

Mr C Murphy: The following 0845 telephone numbers are operated by, or on behalf of, the Department of Regional Development. There are no 0870 numbers operated by, or on behalf of, the Department.

0845 Number	Service
Travelwise Information Line - 0845 378 0908	Roads Service’s Travelwise initiative, launched in October 2003 to promote greater use of sustainable transport, operates a public information line.
Pay and Display Machine Fault Line – 0845 603 9337	Operated by NCP Services Ltd on behalf of Roads Service - in connection with the provision of parking enforcement services
Roads Service Car-Parks, Customer Services – 0845 050 7080	Operated by NCP Services Ltd on behalf of Roads Service - in connection with the provision of parking enforcement services
Penalty Charge Notice, Telephone Payment Line – 0845 260 6100	Operated by Roads Service in connection with the provision of parking enforcement services.
Door to Door Transport Scheme – 0845 608 5555	Operated by Chambers Coach Hire Limited on behalf of Ports & Public Transport Division in connection with Door to Door Transport
Concessionary fares Applications – 0845 600 0049	Operated by Translink on behalf of Ports & Public Transport Division in connection with the provision of concessionary fares.
Waterline – 0845 744 0088	Operated by Water Service in connection with operational contact and complaints.
Water Billing – 0845 877 0030	Operated by Water Service in connection with non domestic bill payments, queries and complaints.

All of the telephone numbers are charged at local rate and there is no profit generated for either the Department of Regional Development or the operators.

Northern Ireland Water also provides two 0800 (free phone) numbers for

• Customers with Hearing Difficulties
• Leakline – customers reporting leaks

Water Meters

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister for Regional Development how much it will cost a consumer to purchase a water meter outright.

(AQW 7576/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that there is no provision, under the current non-domestic metering and charging policy, for a customer to purchase a water meter outright from the water company.

In respect of domestic metering and household payments the Executive has not yet decided on a methodology by which payments will be made.

Water Meters

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister for Regional Development how much a water meter will cost; and the rent per year associated with its installation.

(AQW 7578/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that the cost of a water meter to the company is approximately £25 (excluding installation costs). Northern Ireland Water has also advised that a customer cannot pay for a water meter to be installed. If a water meter is installed on a customer’s supply by Northern Ireland Water as part of the ongoing metering programme, the company will bear the cost of the meter and the installation work. The company also bears the maintenance cost of the meter. However, these costs are recovered from metered customers through the calculation of metered charges in the annual price tariff setting process.

As I explained in response to (AQW 7576/08) the Executive has not yet decided on a methodology by which domestic household payments will be made.

Traffic Signal Installations for the Visually Impaired

Mr Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to his answer to AQW 6940/08, what plans his Department has to increase (i) the number; and (ii) the percentage, of traffic signal installations with facilities for the visually impaired in Northern Division.

(AQW 7611/08)

Mr C Murphy: Officials in my Department’s Roads Service have advised that, within Northern Division, all new traffic signal installations include facilities for the visually impaired. With the exception of a small number of rural traffic signals, an upgrading programme is ongoing to provide facilities for the visually impaired, on all of the remaining traffic signals that do not currently have this facility.

Northern Ireland Water

Mr McQuillan asked the Minister for Regional Development if the directors of Northern Ireland Water will be offered bonuses.

(AQW 7671/08)

Mr C Murphy: In view of the seriousness of the cost reapportionment issue I asked the Chairman and Board of NI Water to consider what action should be taken including whether it would be appropriate for the Directors of the company to be paid bonuses for 2007-08.

The Board has now recommended that Directors should not be paid bonuses for 2007-08.

Sight Lines on A and B Class Country Roads

Rev Dr Robert Coulter asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the statutory minimum distance required for sight lines on A class and B class country roads.

(AQW 7672/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised me that determination of the distance required for sight lines is made in accordance with standards contained within ‘Volume 6 Road Geometry Section 2 – Junctions’ of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, or Planning Policy Statement 3 "Development Control: Roads Considerations" (PPS3), which refers to the Department’s guidelines for vehicular accesses and Development Control Advice Note 15 - 2^nd edition, "Vehicle Access Standards".

The guidelines and standards, including distances required for sightlines are set in relation to road category, traffic volumes, traffic speed limits and perceived danger levels on both the priority road and adjoining minor road.

Taking account of the relaxations or departures from standard that Roads Service can accept, as well as the various factors required in assessing the minimum distances for sight lines, it is difficult to give an exact minimum distance without knowledge of all the facts at any given location. In view of this I would suggest that the Member contacts the Divisional Roads Service Manager, Jim Beattie, County Hall, Castlerock Road, Coleraine, BT51 3HS for further guidance for a specific location.

Use of Bio Fuels in Public Transport Vehicles

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Regional Development what percentage of public transport vehicles use bio fuels; and what plans his Department has to expand their use.

(AQW 7696/08)

Mr C Murphy: The procurement of fuel is an operational matter for public transport providers. From April of this year following extensive trials in 2007, Translink, the major provider of public transport services, has operated its entire bus fleet using a blend of 5% bio-fuel and 95% ultra low sulphur diesel.

Translink continue to closely monitor the future availability and sustainability of alternative blends of bio- fuel and diesel in conjunction with normal commercial considerations in the formulation of its fuel policy.

Bloody Bridge in Newcastle

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Regional Development, given that the Bloody Bridge, Newcastle, is a strategic and public access point to the Mournes, if he will consider introducing a reduced speed limit and improved infrastructure at this location.

(AQW 7697/08)

Mr C Murphy: Officials from my Department’s Roads Service have advised that an inspection of the carriageway in the vicinity of the Bloody Bridge indicates that it does not meet the necessary criteria for the introduction of a reduced speed limit.

The road infrastructure has also been inspected and is considered to be free of any major defects and overall in an acceptable condition.

Replacement of Old Street Lighting

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Regional Development what the criteria is for the replacement of old street lighting.

(AQW 7699/08)

Mr C Murphy: I am advised by my Department’s Roads Service that the main criterion for the replacement of old street lighting is that the system has reached the end of its useful life, usually 25-30 years. This is generally because the equipment has become obsolete or uneconomical to maintain.

Additional factors, such as the scheduling of other works, for example footway reconstruction, may influence the timing of street lighting renewal.

Roads Services in South Down

Mr McCallister asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the budget roads services in the South Down constituency, for the year 2008-09.

(AQW 7702/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service develops its annual work programmes covering the development and maintenance of the network on a Council by Council basis. As you will be aware, the South Down constituency comprises part of Newry and Mourne, Banbridge and Down District Councils thus making it very difficult to produce figures on a constituency basis.

That said, I have recently announced the 2008/09 roads capital and maintenance investment figures for each of the three District Councils, in question, totalling £15.1 million. Using a pro rata calculation based on the percentage of each Council area, which also lies within the South Down constituency, it is estimated that approximately £10 million of this total investment will be spent within the South Down Constituency.

Departmental Car Parks

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development to list all car parks remaining in his Department's ownership.

(AQW 7722/08)

Mr C Murphy: Details of car parks in my Department’s ownership are provided by divisional area in the tables below.

Southern Division

Town	Location
Ardglass	Quay Street
Armagh	Court House
Armagh	Lonsdale Road
Armagh	Friary Road West
Armagh	Ex Surgery Car Park
Armagh	Dobbin Street Lane
Armagh	Linenhall Street (Part)
Armagh	Friary Road East
Armagh	Mall West (Part)
Ballyhalbert	Harbour Road
Ballyhalbert	Portavogie Road
Ballynahinch	Windmill Street
Ballynahinch	Antrim Road
Ballynahinch	Lisburn Street (NS)
Ballynahinch	Lisburn Street (SS)
Ballywalter	Springvale Road
Banbridge	Kenlis Court
Banbridge	Commercial Road
Banbridge	Downshire Place (Free)
Banbridge	Bridge Street
Banbridge	Townsend Street
Banbridge	Church Square
Banbridge	Downshire Road
Banbridge	Kenlis Street
Banbridge	Downshire Place (Paid)
Cloghy	Main Road
Clough	Clough Roundabout
Comber	Glen Link
Comber	Castle Street / Bridge Street
Comber	Killinchy Street
Comber	Newtownards Road
Crossgar	The Square
Donaghadee	Templepatrick Car Park
Donaghadee	Railway Street
Downpatrick	Mount Crescent
Downpatrick	Scotch Street
Downpatrick	Market Street
Downpatrick	Irish Street
Downpatrick	Church Street
Downpatrick	Meadowlands
Dromore	Gallows Street
Dromore	Meeting Street
Dromore	Cross Lane 1
Dromore	Cross Lane 2
Gilford	Castle Hill
Keady	Cow Fair
Keady	Glen Road
Keady	Kinelowen Street
Kilkeel	Bridge Street
Kilkeel	Harbour Road
Kilkeel	Newry Street
Kilkeel	Ben Crom
Kircubbin	Shore Road
Kircubbin	The Green
Lurgan	Blacks Court
Lurgan	Moores Lane 1
Lurgan	Moores Lane 2
Lurgan	Moores Lane 3
Lurgan	Alexandra Square 1
Lurgan	Alexandra Square 2
Lurgan	Castle Lane
Lurgan	Lough Road
Lurgan	Fosters Place
Lurgan	High Street
Lurgan	Wesley Place
Lurgan	Waring Street 1
Lurgan	Waring Street 2
Lurgan	Waring Street 3
Lurgan	Robert Street
Millisle	Ballywalter Road
Millisle	Moss Road
Millisle	Ballywhiskin
Newcastle	Causeway Road
Newcastle	Shimna Road
Newry	Lower Water Street
Newry	Canal Bank 1
Newry	Canal Bank 2
Newry	Canal Bank 3
Newry	Monaghan Street
Newry	River Street
Newry	New Street
Newry	Kilmorey Street
Newry	Bridge Street
Newry	Downshire Road
Newry	Basin Walk
Newry	Edward Street
Newry	Mill Street
Newtownards	Old Cross Street West
Newtownards	Old Cross Street East
Newtownards	Upper Court Street
Newtownards	Mill Street
Newtownards	West Street
Newtownards	Ann Street
Newtownards	Talbot Street
Newtownards	South Street
Newtownards	South Street / Court Street
Newtownards	Mill St Gasworks South
Newtownards	Mill St Gasworks North
Newtownards	Kennel Lane
Portadown	River Bank
Portadown	Magowan Buildings (Free)
Portadown	Castle Street
Portadown	Foundry Street
Portadown	Fair Green
Portadown	Marley Street
Portadown	Meadow Lane West
Portadown	Magowan Buildings (Paid)
Portadown	Meadow Lane East
Portadown	William Street
Portadown	Wilson Street
Portadown	West Street
Portaferry	The Square
Portaferry	Meeting House Street
Rathfriland	Castle Street
Rathfriland	Downpatrick Street
Rostrevor	The Square
Saintfield	Downpatrick Street
Tandragee	Sinton Park
Warrenpoint	The Square
Warrenpoint	East Street
Warrenpoint	Kings Lane
Warrenpoint	Mary Street
Warrenpoint	Newry Street

Eastern Division

Town	Location
Belfast	Charlotte Street
Belfast	Corporation Square
Belfast	Corporation Street
Belfast	Dunbar Street
Belfast	Exchange Street
Belfast	Frederick Street
Belfast	Hope Street North
Belfast	Kent Street
Belfast	Little Donegall Street
Belfast	Little Victoria Street
Belfast	Eastside (Middlepath Street)
Belfast	Northside
Belfast	Station Street
Belfast	York Street.1 (Lancaster Street)
Belfast	York Street.2 (Great Georges Street)
Belfast	Andersonstown Road
Belfast	Ashdale Street
Belfast	Dundela Crescent
Belfast	Grampian Street
Belfast	Madison Avenue East
Belfast	Marlborough Avenue
Belfast	Northumberland Street
Belfast	Parkgate Avenue
Belfast	Ravenscroft Avenue
Belfast	Sandown Road
Belfast	Shaws Bridge
Belfast	Wandsworth Road
Belfast	Westminster Avenue (East Side)
Belfast	Westminster Avenue (West Side)
Belfast	Westminster Avenue North
Belfast	Whitla Street
Lisburn	Antrim Street
Lisburn	Barrack Street
Lisburn	Governors Road
Lisburn	Laganbank Road
Lisburn	Longstone Street
Lisburn	Queens Road
Lisburn	Smithfield Square
Lisburn	Benson Street
Lisburn	Quay Street
Lisburn	Saintfield Road. Roundabout
Lisburn	Union Bridge
Ballyclare	Harrier Way (Paid)
Ballyclare	Harrier Way (Free)
Carrickfergus	High Street
Carrickfergus	Lancastrian Street
Carrickfergus	St. Brides Street
Bangor	Abbey Street East
Bangor	Abbey Street West
Bangor	Bingham Lane
Bangor	Castle Street
Bangor	Clifton Road
Bangor	Holborn Avenue
Bangor	Mills Road
Bangor	The Vennel
Bangor	Central Avenue
Bangor	Dufferin Avenue
Bangor	Newtownards Road/Church Street
Holywood	Church Road
Holywood	Hibernia Street North
Holywood	Hibernia Street South
Glengormley	Beverley Road
Glengormley	Farmley Road
Whiteabbey	Shore Road
Whiteabbey	Whiteabbey Village
Dunmurray	Glenburn Road
Hillsborough	Ballynahinch Street
Moira	Main Street
Groomsport	Springwell Drive

Western Division

Town	Location
Cookstown	Burn Road
Cookstown	Loy Street
Cookstown	Orritor Road
Cookstown	UnionPlace
Clogher	Main Street
Coalisland	Cornmill
Coalisland	Lineside
Dungannon	Castle Hill
Dungannon	Perry Street West
Dungannon	Perry Street East
Dungannon	Scotch Street North
Dungannon	Scotch Street South
Fivemiletown	Edfield Road
Fivemiletown	The Commons
Ballinamallard	Main Street
Enniskillen	Castle Park
Enniskillen	Derrychara Road
Enniskillen	Down Street/Market Street/Cross Street
Enniskillen	Eden Street
Enniskillen	Head Street
Enniskillen	Hollyhill Link
Enniskillen	Quay Lane North
Enniskillen	Quay Lane South
Enniskillen	Queen Street
Enniskillen	Shore Road East
Enniskillen	Wellington Place
Enniskillen	Gaol Square
Irvinestown	Brownhill
Irvinestown	Kesh Road
Kesh	Railway Street
Lisnaskea	New Bridge Road
Lisnaskea	Fair Green (Upper Tier only)
Lisnaskea	Old Quarry
Maguiresbridge	Tattinderry Road
Tempo	The Diamond
Carrickmore	Main Street
Dromore	Drumquin Road
Dromore	Main Street
Fintona	Main Street
Fintona	Town Centre
Omagh	Brook Street
Omagh	Campsie Road
Omagh	Castle Street
Omagh	Church Street North
Omagh	Church Street South
Omagh	Cunningham Terrace
Omagh	Drumragh Avenue
Omagh	Foundry Lane
Omagh	JohnstonPark
Omagh	Market Place
Omagh	Market Street
Omagh	New Brighton Terrace
Omagh	Old Mountfield Road
Castledawson	Castledawson Road
Castledawson	Hillhead Road
Maghera	St. Lurach’s Road
Magherafelt	King Street
Magherafelt	Rainey Street
Magherafelt	Central (off King Street)
Magherafelt	Union Road
Magherafelt	Union Road (Free)
Castlederg	Albert Street
Castlederg	Meetinghouse Lane
Castlederg	William Street
Castlederg	Priests Lane
Dunnamanagh	Berryhill Road
Newtownstewart	Townhall Street West
Strabane	Bowling Green
Strabane	Butcher Street
Strabane	Canal Basin (Dock Street)
Strabane	Lower Main Street North
Strabane	Lower Main Street South
Strabane	Mill Street
Strabane	Railway Street (John Wesley Street)
Strabane	Upper Main Street
Strabane	Canal Basin (North)

Northern Division

Town	Location
Ballycastle	Ann Street
Ballycastle	Castle Street
Ballycastle	Fairhill Street
Ballykelly	Glenhead Road
Ballykelly	Main Street
Bushmills	Main Street
Coleraine	Abbey Street
Coleraine	Long Commons
Coleraine	Milburn Road
Coleraine	Railway Place
Coleraine	Railway Road
Coleraine	Terrace Row
Coleraine	Waterside
Garvagh	Bridge Street
Kilrea	Bridge Street
Limavady	Connell Street
Limavady	Central
Limavady	Main Street
Limavady	Protestant Street
Limavady	Ballyclose Street
Limavady	Bus Station
Limavady	Rathmore Road
Limavady	Limavady By-pass
Portrush	Dunluce Avenue
Portrush	Harbour Road
Portrush	Landsdown Crescent
Portstewart	Convention Avenue
Portstewart	Diamond
Portstewart	Lever Road
Antrim	Central
Antrim	Railway Street
Antrim	Castle Street
Antrim	Dublin Road
Antrim	Dunsilly
Randalstown	John Street
Randalstown	Portglenone Road
Randalstown	Ballygrooby
Templepatrick	Paradise Walk Rooundabout
Toome	Drumderg Roundabout
Ballymena	Ballymoney Road
Ballymena	Church Street 1
Ballymena	Church Street 2
Ballymena	Church Street 3
Ballymena	Broughshane Street 1
Ballymena	Broughshane Street 2
Ballymena	Town Centre Multi-storey
Ballymena	Harryville
Ballymena	Mount Street 1
Ballymena	Mount Street 2 (Park St)
Ballymena	Ballee
Ahoghill	Ahoghill
Galgorm	Galgorm (including Raphael Way)
Ballymoney	Castle Street
Ballymoney	Church Street
Ballymoney	Cockpit Brae East
Ballymoney	Cockpit Brae West
Ballymoney	Dervock Road
Ballymoney	Gate End
Ballymoney	Townhead Street South
Ballymoney	Townhead Street North
Ballymoney	Seymour Street
Larne	Agnew Street
Larne	Circular Road West
Larne	Fairhill
Larne	Narrow Gauge Road
Larne	Bridge Street
Larne	Circular Road East
Larne	Exchange Road
Larne	High Street
Larne	Inver
Larne	Ramp
Larne	Riverdale
Derry	Altnagelvin
Derry	Alfred Street
Derry	Carlisle Road
Derry	Claudy Market Yard
Derry	Foyle Road
Derry	Queens Quay North
Derry	Queens Quay South
Derry	Railway Yard Carpark
Derry	Simpsons Brae
Derry	Shantallow
Derry	Spencer Road
Derry	Strand Road
Derry	Victoria Market*
Derry	William Street

* Closed at present for drainage works.

My Department also provides parking facilities in off-street car parks which are leased. Details of the leased car parks are provided in the tables below.

Eastern Division

Town	Location
Belfast	Bankmore Street
Belfast	Cromac Street
Belfast	Smithfield
Ballyclare	Market Square
Carrickfergus	Joymount
Whitehead	Balmoral Avenue

Western Division

Town	Location
Lisnaskea	New Bridge Road
Lisnaskea	Fair Green
Enniskillen	Shore Road West
Dungannon	Anne Street East
Dungannon	Anne Street East

Northern Division

Town	Location
Derry	Masonic / Bishop Street
Derry	Society Street
Derry	Foyle Road
Coleraine	Terrace Row
Portstewart	Convention Avenue

Northern Ireland Water

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development to explain why Northern Ireland Water was called away from Loughries to Holywood on 24 April 2008, leaving residents without water for a longer period of time than anticipated.

(AQW 7740/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that in the case of an unexpected event that disrupts a customer’s water supply, it aims to turn the water back on within 12 hours of knowing about the problem.

At 3.00pm on 24 April 2008 a report was received of a burst water main at Bowtown Road, Newtownards (Loughries). At that time, Northern Ireland Water staff were already repairing a burst water main at Holywood Road, Newtownards and moved temporarily to the incident at Bowtown Road to assess the situation. Repairs to the water main at Bowtown Road were completed at 11.30pm and the water supply was restored well within the 12 hour standard of service Northern Ireland Water aims to provide.

Park and Ride Schemes

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to his answer to AQO 3815/08, if these criteria will be applied to seasonal park and ride schemes in tourist towns such as Newcastle, to help alleviate traffic congestion.

(AQW 7764/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service advises that Park & Ride schemes are generally introduced for large cities, where the daily traffic queues caused by congestion are lengthy enough to persuade some travellers to park their car on the periphery of a town or city and make the remaining journey by bus or rail.

To provide new car parking facilities on the periphery of tourist areas would present very many difficulties, including land acquisition, planning permission, environmental considerations and cost. In addition, the success of a Park & Ride site is dependant upon the level of bus priority provided to allow buses to bypass traffic queues.

Having specific regard to the provision of Park & Ride facilities in Newcastle, I am advised that there is limited opportunity to provide bus priority on the main approaches to Newcastle, particularly on the Dundrum Road. In these circumstances, and bearing in mind the limited time period (July and August), where such a scheme could be beneficial, there are no plans to introduce a Park & Ride scheme at this time.

Free Travel to Companions of People with Disabilities

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development what consideration is being given to the extension of free travel to companions of people with disabilities, as they are an essential part of travel requirements.

(AQW 7789/08)

Mr C Murphy: Extending concessionary travel to companions of people with disabilities was one of the options considered in a recent review of the Concessionary Fares Scheme. I did not pursue that option when bidding for resources as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review as I considered that there were higher priorities, including extending free travel to a wider range of people with disabilities. In the event my bid for resources to extend to more disabled people was not successful.

Roundabout on the A505 at Killyclogher in Omagh

Mr Doherty asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will consider the construction of a roundabout on the A505 at the intersection of the Farmhill Road and Old Mountfield Road at Killyclogher, Omagh.

(AQW 7821/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has identified a number of options to improve the A505 intersection with the Farmhill Road and Old Mountfield Road, one of which is a roundabout.

When a preferred option has been selected, it will be considered for inclusion in a future programme of Local Transport & Safety Measures.

Illegal Parking in Lurgan

Mr Moutray asked the Minister for Regional Development what steps his Department has taken to address the problem of illegal parking in Lurgan.

(AQW 7848/08)

Mr C Murphy: The responsibility for enforcing on-street parking restrictions transferred, from the PSNI, to my Department’s Roads Service on 30 October 2006. NCP Services Ltd (NCP) was appointed by Roads Service, to provide the new parking enforcement service.

Our core service hours for enforcement are 07.30-18.30 Monday to Saturday, with a reduced level of enforcement on Sundays and during evenings. Lurgan has two Traffic Attendants (TAs) deployed during the core service hours, with enforcement at other times being carried out by mobile patrols. TAs also enforce the parking restrictions in Roads Service’s off-street charged car parks. This ensures that spaces remain accessible to all customers, which helps support the commercial viability and sustainability of the town centre. In the 12-month period 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008, a total of 2,691 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued in Lurgan.

To date Roads Service, in conjunction with NCP, has been concentrating on providing an effective enforcement strategy during the core service hours, as this is when the majority of illegal parking occurs. We will continue to monitor the situation at all other times, to ensure that a suitable level of enforcement is provided to deter those motorists that continue to park illegally.

New Bus Station in Banbridge

Mr Moutray asked the Minister for Regional Development when Translink will be in a position to submit an economic appraisal to his Department for a new bus station in Banbridge.

(AQW 7851/08)

Mr C Murphy: Translink submitted an Economic Appraisal to the Department three years ago but approval was not granted due to problems surrounding the acquisition of land at the preferred site for the new bus station.

Discussions are ongoing to resolve the land issue and in the meantime Translink are preparing a new Economic Appraisal which they hope to submit to the Department in the autumn. Subject to the satisfactory resolution of the land issues, the Department will consider the Economic Appraisal when it is received.

Millennium Way in Lurgan

Mr Moutray asked the Minister for Regional Development if plans to extend Millennium Way in Lurgan will be one of the projects carried out as part of the £109 million set aside to complete the Non-Strategic Major Improvements, incorporating the schemes identified in the Sub-Regional Transport Plan.

(AQW 7854/08)

Mr C Murphy: As you have indicated the recently published Investment Delivery Plan for Roads over the next 10 years identifies funds totalling £109 million specifically "…. to complete the Non Strategic Major Improvements incorporating the schemes identified in the Sub-Regional Transport Plan".

While I would confirm that the Malcolm Road to Gilford Road extension of Millennium Way will be included among the schemes considered for inclusion in this particular programme of work, there are many competing demands for these substantial, but limited, resources and priorities have still to be determined. For that reason alternative funding options have not been ruled out and at a recent meeting with representatives of Lurgan Forward on 1 May 2008 I suggested that it would be helpful if it explored the possibility of developer contribution to this scheme.

Dualling of the A26 Between Ballymena and Ballymoney

Mr Storey asked the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the dualling of the A26 between Ballymena and Ballymoney.

(AQW 7863/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service is progressing plans for the provision of a 7km stretch of dual carriageway on the A26 between Glarryford crossroads and the junction with the A44 Drones Road (- the Ballycastle Fork).

A detailed assessment of the five route corridors under consideration is ongoing and the second stage of the three-stage assessment process is expected to be completed shortly. This process will conclude with the selection of a preferred route, which I would hope to be in a position to announce a within the next few weeks.

Ballymoney Railway Station

Mr Storey asked the Minister for Regional Development for an update on work to upgrade Ballymoney Railway Station in accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act and Translink's New Rail Vision.

(AQW 7864/08)

Mr C Murphy: Work to upgrade Ballymoney Railway Stations is progressing well with the majority of the work now complete. There were some delays to the resurfacing of the platforms and it is now expected that the outstanding work will be finished by the end of August this year.

Exemptions from Water Bills

Mr Dallat asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline his plans for exempting churches from future water bills.

(AQW 7868/08)

Mr C Murphy: The Executive agreed with the Independent Water Review Panel’s recommendation that billing for water and sewerage services should be extended to all non-domestic properties from 1st April 2008. The Executive decided to phase this in over a two year period with customers paying half of the full bill in 2008/09 and the full amount from 2009/10.

Places of worship are classed as non-domestic premises and Northern Ireland Water’s policy is to install water meters for billing purposes on all properties that are not used exclusively for domestic purposes. These properties include charities and other non-profit organisations such as churches and schools. Prior to the recent extension of non-domestic payments, the company was already billing some 1,200 church properties.

The Panel in its Strand 2 report concluded that everyone should contribute towards water and sewerage services.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Regional Development how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by his Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

(AQW 7932/08)

Mr C Murphy: The Department for Regional Development does not currently own or lease any cars.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Regional Development how much his Department has spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by the Department since devolution.

(AQW 7933/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has spent a total of £2,288,230.13 on fuel for vehicles since devolution. The total quoted represents invoices paid in the period 8 May 2007 to 10 June 2008. My Department does not lease any vehicles.

Irish Language Scheme

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development what costs he has estimated that his Department would incur with the implementation of an Irish language scheme.

(AQW 7957/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have not estimated any costs regarding the implementation of an Irish language scheme in my Department.

Car Parking Spaces in Saintfield

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development what assessment has been made of the need for additional car parking spaces in Saintfield; and what plans he has to increase the current number.

(AQW 8016/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has a car park in Downpatrick Street, Saintfield, with 66 free spaces and there are 185 free, on-street parking spaces, dispersed throughout the town.

I can advise that a parking survey within Saintfield was carried out on Saturday 8 September 2007, between 8.00 a.m and 4.30 p.m. This survey revealed that peak occupancy occurred at 12.00 noon, when the on-street spaces reached 80% occupancy, while the car park reached 73%.

This would indicate that there is some spare capacity for parking demand in Saintfield, therefore, Roads Service has no plans to provide additional car parking spaces at present.

Low Water Pressure in Broughderg, Co. Tyrone

Mr Doherty asked the Minister for Regional Development what steps his Department will take to address the issue of low water pressure to homes on Keerin Road, Broughderg, Co. Tyrone.

(AQW 8115/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that it is aware that some residents in the Broughderg area are experiencing low water pressure and work is currently ongoing to improve the water infrastructure in both the Moyola and Lough Fea distribution systems. Work has already commenced on site in the Broughderg area and is expected to be completed by September 2008.

This work aims to reduce the risk of interruptions to the water supply in the Magherafelt and Cookstown areas and should lead to an improvement in water pressure to homes in Keerin Road, Broughderg.

Management Structure and Gender Breakdown of Road Service Staff

Mr O'Dowd asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the (i) management structure and areas of responsibility within the Roads Service; and (ii) religious and gender breakdown of the Roads Service personnel deployed at each regional office.

(AQW 8198/08)

Mr C Murphy: Roads Service is managed by a Board, headed by a Chief Executive and supported by five Directors. Their roles and responsibilities can be found on the Roads Service internet site at "http://www.roadsni.gov.uk/aboutus/roadsserviceboard.htm" Roads Service Board | Roads Service Northern Ireland.

Roads Service has its headquarters in Belfast and has four divisional offices in Belfast, Coleraine, Craigavon and Omagh, each headed by a Divisional Roads Manager. Each division is divided into a number of sections which generally correspond to District Council areas. These divisions oversee the planning, ordering and payment of network services through Roads Service Consultancy, Roads Service Direct and the private sector. They also provide the Agency’s main interface with customers.

Roads Service Direct, our contractor business unit, is centred in Ballymena with staff based at various locations throughout Northern Ireland. They carry out a wide range of activities varying from patching roads to sea-defence work. They also respond to emergency calls dealing with eventualities such as flooding and the aftermath of road traffic collisions. Throughout the winter they operate on a rota standby basis to treat roads for ice and snow when weather conditions require it. Our operational staff are supported by vehicle workshop staff who maintain our large fleet of vehicles and plant.

The Roads Service Consultancy, based in Downpatrick, is a single business unit covering all of Northern Ireland and is responsible for managing our engineering activities such as design and contract supervision.

Roads Service current organisational structure is shown below.

Rapid Transit System for Belfast

Ms J McCann asked the Minister for Regional Development if the Colin area of West Belfast will be included in any rapid transit system for Belfast.

(AQW 8205/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department published the Strategic Outline Case for a pilot Rapid Transit system on 8 April 2008 which included route options for a West Belfast Rapid Transit line. One of these proposed routes links into the Colin area. The results indicate that this route would attract significant patronage, however, there is limited road space available to create dedicated lanes for Rapid Transit. The report concluded that the best performing route for West Belfast is along the Springfield Road to Glenmonagh. My Department is consulting key stakeholders before I take decisions on the preferred technology and initial pilot routes. Dependant on the success of the pilot routes I would hope to be able to extend rapid transit to serve more communities.

Social Development

Departmental Phone Numbers

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Social Development to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, her Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7564/08)

The Minister for Social Development (Ms M Ritchie): My department including the Social Security Agency currently operates a total of eight 0845 telephone numbers and these are listed below. The Northern Ireland Housing Executive also operates three 0844 telephone numbers which perform a similar function to 0845 numbers and are included in the list. No profit is made from telephone lines offered to customers by my Department. There are no 0870 numbers operated by or on behalf of my Department.

Number	Owner	Purpose
0845 601 8821	The Pension Service	Pension Service Enquiry Line
0845 359 0017	Compensation Recovery Unit	Debt Recovery Initiative
0845 358 0027	Debt Centre NI	Debt Recovery Initiative
0845 603 9475	Debt Centre NI	Debt Recovery Initiative Text Phone
0845 605 2020	DHSS&PS	Benefit Leaflet Information Service
0845 713 9896	Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division	NI Helpline (old scheme i.e. child maintenance cases calculated before March 2003)
0845 608 0022	Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division	NI Helpline (new scheme i.e. child maintenance cases calculated after March 2003 or general enquiry)
0845 610 7400-739	Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division	For use by clients as required to a range of extensions
0844 892 0900	Northern Ireland Housing Executive	Main number
0844 892 0901	Northern Ireland Housing Executive	Emergency repairs after hours service
0844 890 0902	Northern Ireland Housing Executive	Housing Benefit Enquiries

Housing Improvement Schemes in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development for an update on the status of all improvement schemes that (i) are forthcoming; and (ii) may be postponed or discontinued by the Housing Executive in North Down.

(AQW 7579/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Housing Executive has plans to undertake 33 improvement schemes including over 3,000 properties in North Down over the period 2007/08 to 2010/11. I have arranged for a table detailing the schemes to be placed in the Assembly Library.

The Housing Executive does not plan to postpone or discontinue any improvement schemes. However, the actual start date for any scheme included within the programme is subject to the availability of finance and estimated start dates may be subject to change. 

Social Housing in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development how the additional resources that her Department received in the budget and monitoring rounds will impact on providing more social housing in North Down.

(AQW 7580/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The social housing programme is formulated on the basis of need rather than geographical area and is subject to land availability. Funding is therefore allocated through the programme taking these criteria into account. The additional funding will mean that significantly more new housing can be provided both in North Down and throughout the whole of Northern Ireland.

North Belfast Community Action Unit

Mr Cobain asked the Minister for Social Development what plans are in place to continue the work undertaken by the North Belfast Community Action Unit beyond March 2009.

(AQW 7594/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The North Belfast Community Action Unit is responsible for the development of the Crumlin Road Gaol/Girdwood Park site and the Community Empowerment Partnerships Programme.

The development of the Gaol/Girdwood site is expected to take a number of years and the unit is committed to this work programme. The Community Empowerment Partnerships work was initiated in 2002. An evaluation of this programme will be carried out shortly to determine effectiveness, requirements for services and appropriate delivery mechanisms.

Decisions on continuing aspects of the Unit’s work will be determined following the evaluation and in consultation with my Ministerial colleagues in the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister.

Meadow Park in Newtownards

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development why 3 bungalows in Meadow Park, Newtownards, have been vacant for 6 months, given the demand for social housing.

(AQW 7600/08)

Ms M Ritchie: 18 Meadow Park has been vacant since October 2007. A new kitchen was installed in December 2007. The property was then burgled requiring further repairs and the installation of another kitchen. Work is now complete. The property will now be offered for rent.

21 Meadow Park has been vacant since December 2007. A new kitchen was installed in March 2008. Further repairs were also required to bring the property up to an acceptable standard. A contractor is currently completing these remedial works. The property will be available for allocation before the end of June 2008.

25 Meadow Park became vacant in October 2007. A new kitchen was installed in March 2008. Further repairs were also completed to bring the property up to an acceptable standard. The property was re-let on 2 June.

Housing Association Homes in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of properties owned by housing associations in the North Down constituency, broken down by district council area.

(AQW 7606/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The information is not readily available by constituency. However, I can say that in North Down District Council area, at March 2007, housing associations owned 1,018 units of accommodation.

Fuel Poverty

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development what action she is taking to raise the fuel poverty threshold, in light of the increase in oil, gas and electricity prices.

(AQW 7616/08)

Ms M Ritchie: There is a nationally recognised definition of fuel poverty. A household is in fuel poverty if, in order to maintain a defined level of temperature throughout the home, the occupants would have to spend more than 10% of their income on all household fuel use. Using this definition, fuel poverty stands at 34% as indicated by the 2006 House Condition Survey. In this time of rising fuel prices, it is important to ensure that Government funding targets those most in need. I have established a Fuel Poverty Taskforce to advise me how this might best be achieved. The Task Force will report back to me later this summer and it is my intention to secure Executive support for a package of measures to help those people most in need.

Increase in Fuel Costs

Mr Cree asked the Minister for Social Development, given the impact of increases in fuel costs, especially on low income families, if she will call on HM Treasury to use the wind fall gains from VAT to ease fuel bills.

(AQW 7621/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Northern Ireland’s relationship with HM Treasury is managed by the Finance Minister. However, I have recently written to James Purnell MP, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, requesting a meeting to discuss a number of issues, including the potential for using the VAT ‘windfall’ to assist those most vulnerable to the impact of fuel poverty and rising fuel prices.

Discretionary Housing Benefit Payments

Mr S Wilson asked the Minister for Social Development how much money has been spent on discretionary Housing Benefit payments to tenants with a history of anti-social behaviour in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7631/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The information is not readily available. Discretionary Housing Payments are payable only to tenants in the private rented sector.  While the Housing Executive can instigate proceedings against tenants in the private rented sector, the police or local councils are more likely to have taken action against such tenants. The Housing Executive does not record information regarding such activity by other statutory agencies or bodies.

Discretionary Housing Benefit Payments

Mr S Wilson asked the Minister for Social Development how many tenants with a history of anti-social behaviour have been awarded discretionary payments of Housing Benefit, in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7632/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The information is not readily available. Discretionary Housing Payments are payable only to tenants in the private rented sector.  While the Housing Executive can instigate proceedings against tenants in the private rented sector, the police or local councils are more likely to have taken action against such tenants. The Housing Executive does not record information regarding such activity by other statutory agencies or bodies.

Homes Near High Voltage Power Lines

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister for Social Development (i) what criteria exist for the construction of homes close to high power voltage lines; (ii) how many social homes have been built within 60 metres of high power voltage lines in each of the last 3 years; and (iii) has any study been commissioned to assess the health impact upon residents of homes built close to high power voltage lines.

(AQW 7716/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Department of Environment and Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety have advised that there are no specific criteria for the assessment of planning applications in close proximity to high power voltage lines and the evidence to date suggests that in general there are no adverse effects on the health of the population caused by exposure to Extremely Low Frequency Electric and Magnetic Fields (ELF EMFs) below the international guideline levels adopted in the UK.

No record is kept of the number of new social homes built within 60 metres of high power voltage lines.

Social Housing in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development what land is available in the North Down constituency for social housing.

(AQW 7753/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My Department holds no land for social housing in North Down, however, the Housing Executive has land at Rathgill and South Circular Road, Bangor; Strand Avenue, Holywood and Glenbrook, Newtownards.

Age Concern and Free Rural Transport

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister for Social Development what financial assistance her Department gives to Age Concern to provide free rural transport.

(AQW 7756/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My department does not give any assistance to Age Concern to provide free rural transport. The issue of rural transport in Northern Ireland is primarily a matter of concern for the Department for Regional Development.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Social Development how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by her Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model.

(AQW 7777/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Department owns or leases a total of four vehicles, which are used for a range of functions including conducting surveillance on benefit fraud investigations, the transport of business equipment and personnel and supporting operations and maintenance of the river banks within the Lagan river impoundment.

Type of vehicle	Car	Van	Car	MPV
Owned / Leased	Leased	Leased	Owned	Owned
Make	Ford	Vauxhall	Audi	Land Rover
Model	Focus	Combo	A6	Defender 110
Engine size	1600cc	1300cc	2496cc	2495cc
Fuel type	Petrol	Diesel	Diesel	Diesel
Fuel Efficiency Miles per gallon	Fuel Consumption: Urban - 32.6 Extra Urban - 51.6 Combined - 42.4	Not available in this format from the vehicle owner’s manual	28 mpg	28 mpg

Disability Living Allowance Security Directorate

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development to explain why the Disability Living Allowance Security Directorate would call on an applicant without pre-notice, and complete a new Disability Living Allowance application form, when an application had already been completed and agreed.

(AQW 7809/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Levels of fraud and error in benefits are measured on a regular basis through the Benefit Review process. This involves reviews, which are carried out by the Social Security Agency on a random selection of benefit cases including Disability Living Allowance applications and are selected by Social Welfare Statistics & Consultancy Branch.

As part of the process, un-notified home visits are carried out by Agency staff who all carry official identification and introduce themselves on arrival at the customer’s home. A structured benefit questionnaire is then completed with the customer to check for any incorrectness. The results are used to report the Agency’s performance against the fraud and error targets.

Neighbourhood Renewal

Mr McCartney asked the Minister for Social Development what consultation has taken place with (i) Executive colleagues; (ii) local councils; (iii) local development offices; (iv) private sector; and (v) the community and voluntary sector, in relation to the transfer of Neighbourhood Renewal functions to Local Government.

(AQW 7845/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Significant consultation has been held on the transfer of Urban Regeneration, including Neighbourhood Renewal, functions to Local Government. This formed part of the Review of Public Administration proposals of the Direct Rule Administration, which were the subject of a detailed public consultation process in 2005, involving the public, private and voluntary sectors and political representatives. Departmental officials briefed both political parties and the Local Government Taskforce, which comprised elected members nominated by NILGA, on the detail of the functions proposed for transfer. Officials also addressed the NILGA conference in February 2007 on the subject.

Following the restoration of devolved Government, the Executive endorsed the previous Administration’s decision to transfer urban regeneration functions, including Neighbourhood Renewal. This was detailed in the Emerging Findings report published on 19 October 2007. This was followed by a process of stakeholder engagement which provided the opportunity for representatives from councils and other organisations to engage in discussions on the initial proposals at both regional and sub regional events. Stakeholders also had the option of making their views known in writing. The proposals on the transfer of functions to local government were debated in the Assembly and finally announced on 31 March 2008.

Neighbourhood Renewal

Mr McCartney asked the Minister for Social Development to outline how many meetings of the Ministerial Subgroup on Neighbourhood Renewal have (i) been scheduled; and (ii) taken place, since May 8 2007.

(AQW 7846/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Since 8 May 2007, 3 meetings have been scheduled. One meeting took place on 9 August 2007. Two further meetings were postponed to allow Departments time to provide clarity and certitude about their willingness and capacity to support Neighbourhood Action Plans. A further meeting of the Ministerial Group is planned for 28 July.

Neighbourhood Renewal

Mr McCartney asked the Minister for Social Development how many times she has tabled Neighbourhood Renewal as an agenda item at meetings of the Executive.

(AQW 7847/08)

Ms M Ritchie: To secure commitment to the Neighbourhood Renewal strategy, I wrote to Ministerial colleagues in January highlighting the cross cutting nature of the strategy and seeking their commitment. Responses were received from all Ministers confirmed their support and commitment to working across Government to deliver meaningful improvements in Neighbourhood Renewal areas.

Should a significant decision be required in relation to Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy I will formally table an appropriate paper at Executive.

Examining Medical Practitioners

Mrs McGill asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the basis on which an Examining Medical Practitioner can overrule the patient's General Practitioner or Consultant and declare that person fit for work.

(AQW 7861/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The legislation provides for the question of whether a person is capable or incapable of work to be determined in accordance with the personal capability assessment. The determination is made by a decision maker after considering all the available evidence relating to the person’s incapacity, including the account given by the person on their questionnaire, information provided by the person’s own doctor or specialist, and expert medical advice from a Medical Support Services doctor who is specially trained in assessing the effects a condition has on a person’s functional ability.

Urban Development Grant Scheme

Mr Storey asked the Minister for Social Development for an update on work by her Department to access funding for the two projects from Ballymoney included in the pilot Urban Development Grant scheme.

(AQW 7865/08)

Ms M Ritchie: One of the Ballymoney projects is still subject to the appraisal process and additional information has been requested. The second project has been appraised but funding can only be confirmed when the budget position in the latest in-year monitoring round is finalised by the Executive. I would expect this to be confirmed within the next month.

Housing Executive Home Improvement Grants

Mr Storey asked the Minister for Social Development how many households have been awarded a Housing Executive home improvement grant in (i) Ballycastle; (ii) Ballymena; and (iii) Ballymoney, in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7866/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The number of households that have been awarded a Housing Executive home improvement grant in the relevant District Council areas is as follows:-

District Council	2005/2006	2006/2007	2007/2008
Moyle	47	38	33
Ballymena	67	95	62
Ballymoney	46	55	56

Neighbourhood Renewal

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development what consultations she has had with (i) local councils; (ii) community and voluntary groups; and (iii) other stakeholders, in relation to transferring responsibility for Neighbourhood Renewal to local councils.

(AQW 7871/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Significant consultation has been held on the transfer of Urban Regeneration, including Neighbourhood Renewal, functions to Local Government. This formed part of the Review of Public Administration proposals of the Direct Rule Administration, which were the subject of a detailed public consultation process in 2005, involving the public, private and voluntary sectors and political representatives. Departmental officials briefed both political parties and the Local Government Taskforce, which comprised elected members nominated by NILGA, on the detail of the functions proposed for transfer. Officials also addressed the NILGA conference in February 2007 on the subject.

Following the restoration of devolved Government, the Executive endorsed the previous Administration’s decision to transfer urban regeneration functions, including Neighbourhood Renewal. This was detailed in the Emerging Findings report published on 19 October 2007. This was followed by a process of stakeholder engagement which provided the opportunity for representatives from councils and other organisations to engage in discussions on the initial proposals at both regional and sub regional events. Stakeholders also had the option of making their views known in writing. The proposals on the transfer of functions to local government were debated in the Assembly and finally announced on 31 March 2008.

Extra Funding for Debt Advisors

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development if she has considered funding independent advice and support services in local communities, to assist people facing debt problems.

(AQW 7880/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Through the Community Support Programme which is delivered by local councils my Department provides over £5 million of funding of which £1 million is ring fenced specifically for providing front line advice services. One of the key services provided by advice agencies is advice and representation on all matters regarding debt issues.

Additionally Minister Foster from the Department of Enterprise Trade and Industry contributes £400,000 directly to the Citizens Advice Bureaux specifically for debt advice.

Neighbourhood Renewal

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development how many projects will be funded through Neighbourhood Renewal from August 2008 in Belfast.

(AQW 7882/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The number of projects which will be funded from August 2008 will only be known when a full assessment has been completed. This work is currently underway.

Tours of Crumlin Road Jail

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development if she will consider offering free tours of Crumlin Road Jail to school children and senior citizens' groups.

(AQW 7883/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Tours of Crumlin Road Gaol are free to all school children and senior citizens’ groups, as well as students and the unemployed.

Gambling

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister for Social Development what types of gambling are classed as illegal gambling.

(AQW 7918/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Gambling activities in Northern Ireland (other than the National Lottery) are regulated by the Betting, Gaming, Lotteries and Amusements (Northern Ireland) Order 1985 and its associated subordinate legislation.

The legal status of any gambling activity may only be authoritatively determined by a court.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Social Development how much her Department has spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by the Department since devolution.

(AQW 7931/08)

Ms M Ritchie: From devolution on 8 May 2007 to date, my Department has incurred expenditure on fuel totalling £4,769. This was made up of:

• £3,053 for vehicles owned, and
• £1,716 for vehicles leased.

Social Security Social Fund

Mrs McGill asked the Minister for Social Development (i) when the Social Security Social Fund will be funded to accommodate people receiving income support who cannot afford to replace household items; and (ii) how many second stage appeals within the Social Security Social Fund in the Strabane and Omagh areas have been successful in the last three years.

(AQW 7986/08)

Ms M Ritchie: (i) The Social Fund currently makes provision for the payment of Budgeting Loans to people in receipt of Income Support, income based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Pension Credit These loans which are interest free are designed to help spread the cost of essential items over a more manageable period of time and can be used to purchase items such as furniture and household equipment.

(ii) The table below sets out the number of applicants who have received an additional award (either full or partial) as a result of a review carried out by the Office of the Social Fund Commissioner in each of the last 3 years, within the Strabane and Omagh areas.

Year	Strabane – Successful Level 2 Appeals	Omagh - Successful Level 2 Appeals
April 2005 –March 2006	12	4
April 2006 –March 2007	4	11
April 2007 – March 2008	10	14

Village Urban Renewal Area in South Belfast

Mr A Maskey asked the Minister for Social Development if Kitchener Street in the Village area, South Belfast, is included in the recent proposals for regeneration/demolition.

(AQW 8012/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Kitchener Street is included in the proposals for regeneration/demolition.

Village Urban Renewal Area in South Belfast

Mr A Maskey asked the Minister for Social Development how sitting tenants or homeowners, in properties which will be vested as part of the regeneration of the Village area, South Belfast, are to be accommodated in terms of (i) property value; (ii) compensation; and (iii) re-housing in the area.

(AQW 8013/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Homeowners affected by vesting are entitled to the market value of their property at the date of vesting, plus Home Loss and Disturbance payments. Home Loss payments are made to home owners who are in legal ownership of the property at the date of vesting. Homeowners are also entitled to a Disturbance payment provided they were in legal possession of the property at the time when the Notice of Application for a Vesting Order was made. Homeowners who choose to be re-housed in social housing will be placed on the waiting list for their area(s) and will be awarded priority status following vesting.

Tenants who supply documentary proof that they lived in the property for at least a year before they moved are entitled to a Home Loss payment and also a Disturbance payment. Tenants wishing to remain in the area may be entitled to social housing under the normal eligibility criteria.

Smartwater Project

Mr Burns asked the Minister for Social Development (i) for a summary of the overall aims of the ‘Smartwater’ project being undertaken by the Housing Executive in Crumlin; (ii) what activities took place the week beginning 9 June 2008 as part of the ‘Smartwater’ project (iii) how many households have had any of their contents marked with ‘Smartwater’ to date and (iv) what possessions or other household items were marked with ‘Smartwater’ in the various properties which have been visited to date.

(AQW 8034/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The aim of the ‘Smartwater’ project is to evaluate the use of Smartwater in preventing burglaries in the Crumlin area and in doing so, seek to address the fear of crime within the community, particularly amongst the elderly and vulnerable.

On 9 June, the second Smartwater presentation to councillors took place at Antrim Civic Centre. It involved training those likely to apply Smartwater and packing of kit for initial delivery. The areas to be covered were mapped and a strategy for roll out and Smartwater street signage agreed. Neighbourhood Watch delivered the first one hundred advice leaflets to residents and 16 new PSNI recruits were given Smartwater training.

On 11 June, a briefing for Community Officers, Neighbourhood Watch and the Housing Executive was held at Crumlin Police Station. Products were delivered at the launch at Lakeview. A further 37 leaflets were delivered.

The target is to deliver the Smartwater product to 1000 homes within the next year. There is no information available on exactly what has been marked by residents.

Social Security Agency’s Strategic Business Review

Mr Doherty asked the Minister for Social Development when the Social Security Agency’s Strategic Business Review into Jobs and Benefits Accommodation commenced; and whether this occurred prior to, during or after private sector tenders were invited for a replacement site for the new Jobs & Benefits Office in Strabane.

(AQW 8127/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Social Security Agency’s Strategic Business Review commenced in January 2006. This occurred prior to the invitation for private sector tenders for a replacement site for the new Jobs & Benefits Office in Strabane which took place in April 2006.

Assembly Commission

Private Members Bills

Mr Weir asked the Assembly Commission if any Private Members Bills have been introduced or proposed within the Assembly between January 2001 and December 2007 on the issue of high hedges or Leylandii.

(AQW 6161/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): There have been no Private Members Bills of the type referred to introduced or formally proposed within the Assembly for the above period.

Security Review

Mr W Clarke asked the Assembly Commission for the costs associated with the implementation of the review of security; and for the proposed annual running costs.

(AQW 7472/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): Following a significant security incident in November 2006 the Assembly Commission initiated a major review of security at Parliament Buildings, carried out by independent security specialists, with the aim of ensuring that Parliament Buildings is a safe environment for the public, MLAs and staff.  The Assembly Commission accepted a number of recommendations arising from that review, leading to the recent installation of additional security arrangements. 

In implementing the recommendations the Assembly Commission sought to balance legitimate security concerns against the use of public funds and the Commission's aim of increasing public engagement with the Assembly. The construction work on the physical changes was project managed on behalf of the Assembly Commission by the Properties Division - part of the Department of Finance and Personnel. Full costs have not yet been finalised as accounts are still being received and agreed. However current estimated costs are:

Search Facility £34,674

Building works £41,740

Associated services £97,855

Railings / gates / fences £146,621

PA system upgrade £31,979

X-ray equipment £123,000

PSNI presence £181,190.37

The annual running costs are estimated to be as follows:

Search Facility £1200 -1400

PSNI presence £396K – year 1

PA system £1,200-1,400

X-ray equipment £5,625 – year 1

Telecommunications Aerials

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Assembly Commission what plans it has to erect additional telecommunications aerials to ensure that all mobile phone networks are covered.

(AQW 7591/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): In 2007 the Assembly Commission tasked Building Management Branch with investigating improving the mobile phone coverage within Parliament Buildings. This followed reports of poor mobile phone coverage from all building users. Areas which were identified as having particularly poor signal strength were the Basement restaurant and the Press bar.

Building Management Branch approached the mobile phone suppliers listed on the OGC Framework; Orange, O2, Vodafone and T Mobile, with a view to them improving the signal for their respective networks. Following these meetings Vodafone and O2 installed signal boosters within Parliament Buildings, with work commencing in the summer of 2007. This has resulted in a marked improvement in the signal strength on these networks in all areas including the Press bar and Basement restaurant.

Unfortunately T Mobile and Orange have not yet taken up the offer of installing aerials; however it is hoped they may consider doing so in the future.

Assistant Assembly Clerk Recruitment Exercise

Mr Cree asked the Assembly Commission, following the recent Assistant Assembly Clerk recruitment exercise, (i) how much the recruitment exercise cost; (ii) how many posts needed to be filled; and (iii) how many candidates were successful.

(AQW 7665/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter):

(i) The cost of the recruitment exercise was £34,815 (summary attached). Staff costs have been estimated. (ii) There are 31 vacancies at this level and (iii) 11 candidates were recommended by the interview panels as suitable for appointment. Two candidates have subsequently withdrawn from the competition.

Assistant Assembly Clerk Recruitment Competition (PB/001/07) Costs (rounded)

Area	Cost
Staff Salaries (estimated)	£17, 850
Advertising	£ 4,659
Test Papers and administration	£10,162
Postage and Stationery (estimated)	£ 750
Accommodation – tests & Interviews	£ 1,361
Hospitality	£ 33
TOTAL	£34,815