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.
Friday 19 October 2007
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
Corrigenda
Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister
Orange Halls
Mr B Armstrong asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what representations have been made by the department, to ensure that the recent attacks on Orange Halls are being treated as sectarian hate crimes by the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
(AQW 81/08)
The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness): We totally deplore these acts and condemn utterly those people who carry out such attacks, which are a scourge on our society. We are totally committed to moving society forward; to make a real difference to the lives of all our people.
To this end, the First Minister has made numerous representations to the police in relation to attacks on Orange Halls.
Royal Ulster Constabulary Reservists
Mr D McNarry asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail the further clarification it is seeking from the Secretary of State with regard to pension/gratuity payments to Royal Ulster Constabulary reservists; and to indicate when it will be in a position to release the information obtained in relation to this issue.
(AQW 588/08)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: We have asked for further information about aspects of the Northern Ireland Office’s assessment of the economic viability of a pension scheme for Royal Ulster Constabulary Part-time Reservists. We will provide a full response when this additional information has been received.
Investment Strategy
Mr J Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail how it will ensure that the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland covers all of Northern Ireland, and, in particular, the Strangford area.
(AQW 756/08)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: A draft Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland will be published shortly for consultation, setting out a range of programmes and projects to develop public infrastructure over the period 2008-2018 in line with the Executive’s strategic priorities. In developing the draft Investment Strategy, the Strategic Investment Board has engaged with a wide cross-section of society across the region in order to inform better its advice to the Executive on prioritisation of future infrastructure development.
The Investment Strategy will be based on objective assessment of needs and priorities across all areas and will include developments both of regional and local significance.
Office of the Ombudsman and the Commissioner for Complaints
Mr D McClarty asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what consideration it has given to initiating the review of the Offices of the Ombudsman for Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Complaints, which was due to commence upon restoration of the Assembly.
(AQW 764/08)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: A review of the Offices of the Assembly Ombudsman and Northern Ireland Commissioner for Complaints was undertaken in the 2003/04 financial year, and a report was submitted to OFMDFM for consideration in March 2004. In considering the report, the former Secretary of State, Paul Murphy MP, decided that consultation on the report findings, and subsequent policy development, should await the return of the Assembly.
We are now considering the report to determine the continued relevance of its scope and findings in light of the time that has elapsed since it was originally submitted to OFMDFM. This will allow us to map out what action is required in relation to the report, and the timetable for taking forward its findings as appropriate. We will advise the Assembly of our intentions in due course.
Victims' Commissioner
Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, with reference to the appointment of a Victims' Commissioner, and on the basis that the recruitment process was initiated under direct rule, to detail the implications that the delay in making this appointment will have on the reports being produced by (i) the Strategic Review of Parades Group; and (ii) the Consultative Group on the Past (Eames/Bradley).
(AQW 894/08)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The work of the Strategic Review of Parades Group and the Consultative Group on the Past are the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Office. We understand that the former intend to report in Spring 2008 and the latter by Summer 2008.
At this stage we do not anticipate any implications for the two reports arising from the timescale for Appointment of the Victims’ Commissioner as announced on 8 October 2007.
Agriculture and Rural Development
Cost of Animal Feed
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what action she is taking to offset the threat to the pig, poultry and cattle industries, as a result of the increasing cost of feed.
(AQW 630/08)
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms Gildernew): I have recently met senior management at Grampian Country Park to hear at first hand the real economic challenges facing the pigmeat sector. I am also aware of the difficulties facing the poultry sector. I am fully engaged with the Red Meat Task Force and will be working with them and other stakeholders to consider their findings and recommendations and the way forward.
The extent of the problem varies with individual farm situation and it is essential each farmer accurately assesses their own costs of production. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, CAFRE, offers Benchmarking programmes to pig producers and livestock farmers to help them assess their own costs of production and identify solutions to address any inefficiencies identified. The College is also working with stakeholders to develop training programmes for pig producers. A programme of written communications and workshops is planned this winter for the ruminant sectors in response to the current feed situation. We have also put the set-aside rate at 0% for the coming year, which will release land for cereal production. I hope this will go some way to helping the pig, poultry and cattle industries at this time.
I have highlighted to the major retailers here how difficult the situation is for our local supply base. I have also written to every supermarket in the North about the rising costs for producers because of feed prices. Whilst I would like to encourage supermarkets to consider better terms for local produce, unfortunately, this is a reserved matter and I have no direct influence over prices.
Livestock Identity Tags
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to explain the reasons for the decision to retain the United Kingdom logo on the new 14 digit livestock identity tags.
(AQW 632/08)
Ms Gildernew: Two-letter country codes must be printed on cattle eartags under EU legislation. The purpose of this is to allow the animal’s Member State of origin to be identified. Commission Regulation (EC) No. 911/2004 specifies that the country code for the United Kingdom is UK. We are bound by this Commission Regulation to retain this on the tags.
Sluicing Gates
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the decisions taken in relation to putting in place new and improved sluicing gates at the Clay Lakes, Shrigley, following the meeting on 18 June 2007 between her officials, Environment and Heritage Service officials, and local residents.
(AQW 687/08)
Ms Gildernew: DARD Rivers Agency currently has no responsibility for control structures on the Clay Lakes. Following a meeting in June 2007 between representatives of Rivers Agency, DOE, Environment and Heritage, and the current controllers of the water levels, a further meeting took place on 19 July to discuss future control arrangements and the possible transfer of responsibility to Rivers Agency. Any decisions to provide new and improved control structures are subject to the formal agreement of the current controllers to transfer responsibility which has not yet been confirmed.
Animal Incinerators
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the consultation requirements, in relation to building an animal incinerator on a farm.
(AQW 694/08)
Ms Gildernew: Animal carcase incinerators must be approved in accordance with the Animal By-Products Regulations (NI) 2003. This requires incinerators to be operated in such a way as to minimise risks to public or animal health.
Under the Regulations, my Department must grant an approval if it is satisfied that the premises will be operated in compliance with the legislation. The legislation does not make provision for consultation. There is therefore no requirement for consultation in the approval process.
Organics Sector
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline what incentives her department has introduced to develop the organics sector.
(AQW 722/08)
Ms Gildernew: Under the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, which was approved by the European Commission in late July 2007, I hope to offer a new Organic Farming Scheme to assist farmers who wish to convert from conventional to organic production.
The new Scheme should offer increased levels of support for the organic livestock sector, with additional support for the organic cereal and horticulture sectors. DARD proposes to pay the following amounts to farmers to cover the first five years of conversion to organic production:
Horticulture (including top fruit) - £670
Arable - £570
Other Improved Land - £470
These payments are on a ‘per hectare’ basis, and will be apportioned over the five years.
I also hope to offer an ongoing post-conversion payment of £30 per hectare per year for such land, which is certified organic, under the proposed Organic Option in the new Countryside Management Scheme.
In addition to this, CAFRE (Greenmount Campus) continues to provide education, advice and ongoing support in relation to organic farming. It also develops and tests new technologies appropriate to the local organic sector.
Genetically Modified Crops
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what discussions she has had with her counterpart in the Republic of Ireland, in relation to the debate on genetically modified crops.
(AQW 723/08)
Ms Gildernew: To date, there have been no such discussions with Mary Coughlan, my counterpart in the Republic of Ireland, on this matter.
While such discussions will be scheduled if and when required, it should be pointed out that locally the Department of Environment, not DARD, have the statutory responsibility for the licensing of any GM trials.
However, I must stress that no GM crops are being grown here, either on farms or in research establishments.
Lamb Production
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the tonnage of lamb produced in Northern Ireland in (a) 2004; (b) 2005; (c) 2006; and (d) 2007, to date.
(AQW 743/08)
Ms Gildernew: The tonnage of lamb produced from the domestic breeding flock, including that from lambs slaughtered locally and lambs shipped or exported live, is estimated to be the following:-
tonnes dressed carcase weight
(a) 2004 17,878
(b) 2005 17,790
(c) 2006 18,940 (provisional)
(d) 2007 (to end of September) 11,855 (preliminary estimate)
I hope you find this helpful.
Beef Production
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the tonnage of beef produced in Northern Ireland in (a) 2004; (b) 2005; (c) 2006; and (d) 2007, to date.
(AQW 744/08)
Ms Gildernew: The tonnage of beef produced locally, including that from animals slaughtered here and all cattle shipped or exported live, is estimated to be the following:-
tonnes dressed carcase weight1
(a) 2004 138,174
(b) 2005 132,244
(c) 2006 139,693 (provisional)
(d) 2007 (to end of September) 113,325 (preliminary estimate)
1. This excludes meat from animals slaughtered under the Over Thirty Months Scheme and the Older Cattle Disposal Scheme. This meat does not enter the human food chain.
I hope you find this helpful.
Circus Animals
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail her department's policy in relation to the presence of circuses involving the use of animals.
(AQW 771/08)
Ms Gildernew: DARD’s role in circuses is currently very limited. Part III of the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972 allows for the protection of all animals, as it is an offence under the Act to fail to exercise reasonable care and supervision so as to prevent unnecessary suffering to an animal. There are, however, no specific provisions on the welfare of animals in circuses. Furthermore the Department has no powers of entry to circuses. If a welfare complaint is received regarding a circus animal, only the PSNI has powers of entry under the Act.
The Department did, however, consult on proposals for new animal welfare legislation in 2006, including on the need for regulation of circuses. I have asked my officials to finalise a paper summarising the responses to this consultation, after which I will decide what new legislation is required.
As many of the circuses that operate here are based in the South, it is important that I take note of the position in the South during my consideration of this issue. Therefore I have asked my officials to raise the issue in their discussions about new animal welfare legislation in the South, with their counterparts in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, when they next meet at a forthcoming Animal Welfare North South Working Group.
Circus Animals
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to regulate the use of animals in circuses within Northern Ireland; and what consideration she has given to a ban on such circuses.
(AQW 772/08)
Ms Gildernew: DARD’s role in circuses is currently very limited. Part III of the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972 allows for the protection of all animals, as it is an offence under the Act to fail to exercise reasonable care and supervision so as to prevent unnecessary suffering to an animal. There are, however, no specific provisions on the welfare of animals in circuses. Furthermore the Department has no powers of entry to circuses. If a welfare complaint is received regarding a circus animal, only the PSNI has powers of entry under the Act.
The Department did, however, consult on proposals for new animal welfare legislation in 2006, including on the need for regulation of circuses. I have asked my officials to finalise a paper summarising the responses to this consultation, after which I will decide what new legislation is required.
As many of the circuses that operate here are based in the South, it is important that I take note of the position in the South during my consideration of this issue. Therefore I have asked my officials to raise the issue in their discussions about new animal welfare legislation in the South, with their counterparts in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, when they next meet at a forthcoming Animal Welfare North South Working Group.
Suckler Beef and Hill Sheep Farmers
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what steps she will take to support the long-term sustainability of Northern Ireland's suckler beef and hill sheep farmers, in response to the findings of the Northern Ireland Red Meat Taskforce.
(AQW 799/08)
Ms Gildernew: I am committed to supporting local produce and can advise that my Department is actively involved in work aimed at assisting our beef and sheep industries. The Task Force Report clearly shows the serious challenges facing these sectors and gives a clear view on the choices that have to be made by each individual farmer.
My Department will target research and investment to production models that are considered, by the Report, as having the greatest potential to deliver results and offer sustainable businesses to farmers. We will support those farmers who choose to stay in the sector and look at alternative production systems and help those who wish to change direction and take up other opportunities.
The Single Farm Payment, available up to 2013, represents substantial transitional support and gives producers options, while maintaining current levels of income, to be able to change direction while trying to implement logical business decisions. Additionally, the Rural Development Plan that I announced in early summer, contains many programmes and measures that will also assist in the transition, for example, adding value via better Processing and Marketing, Farm Modernisation and Supply Chain Programmes.
Beef and Lamb were included in LMC’s programme of activities at Anuga, the international food and drink exhibition that took place in Cologne earlier this month. LMC also facilitate trade missions, carry out beef and lamb promotion activities in Europe and provide pricing and marketing information to help the industry secure the best markets for their products.
Part-Time Farmers
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will give a detailed report on her department's progress towards accommodating part-time farmers, within the farm viability criteria that are presently applied to meet planning policy.
(AQW 813/08)
Ms Gildernew: I understand the concerns which exist about the relevance of the current farm viability test given that an increasing proportion of farms are being operated on a part time basis. The assessment of farm viability is one of a number of issues that is being considered by the Ministerial Interdepartmental Rural Planning Group, of which I am a member. This group will report its conclusions to the Executive.
Surplus Young Cattle
Mr G Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what is her assessment of whether or not surplus young cattle are always disposed of in a humane manner.
(AQW 865/08)
Ms Gildernew: There is no evidence to suggest inhumane disposal of young cattle. The majority of these surplus young cattle are humanely destroyed by private vets though some may be shot by the farmers themselves. If the welfare of animals was being contravened the Department would expect to be made aware through complaints from neighbours and farm visitors. The Department gives high priority to the welfare of cattle and operates a vigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements. Any breaches are investigated thoroughly and offenders prosecuted as necessary.
Surplus Young Cattle
Mr G Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to introduce incentives in relation to the rearing of surplus young cattle, taking into account the current global food shortage.
(AQW 866/08)
Ms Gildernew: The recently published Red Meat Task Force Report highlights the serious challenges facing the sector and gives a clear view on the choices that have to be made by each individual farmer. My Department will assist in whatever way it can but the current structure of the red meat industry is not viable and we need to secure change. I will ensure that Government resources are focused and targeted on those production options which are viable. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, CAFRE, and Supply Chain Development Branch will also continue to work with producers to develop new production systems for cattle with a view to satisfying the demands of, or need for, new market opportunities.
The Single Farm Payment, which will be available up to 2013 at least, represents substantial transitional support to underpin the red meat sector, giving producers the opportunity to change the direction of their business whilst maintaining current levels of income. The question would appear to indicate that the time is right to look at other options including diversification. Further subsidy, even in the short term, would simply mask the issues and put off addressing the need for change. Introducing an incentive scheme or something similar is neither realistic nor practical as, even if State Aid approval were to be granted, resources are extremely limited.
Early Retirement Scheme for Farmers
Mr G Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what consideration she will give to an early retirement scheme for farmers, similar to that which exists in the Republic of Ireland.
(AQW 867/08)
Ms Gildernew: Independent research commissioned by DARD and carried out in 2002 by The Queen’s University of Belfast considered the viability of an Early Retirement Scheme, as well as a New Entrants Scheme. The research estimated that the payment for actions which would have occurred anyway in the absence of the Scheme would be relatively high and, therefore, it offered poor value for money.
Since then, decoupling of support and the introduction of the Single Farm Payment Scheme (SFPS) provides an extremely flexible means by which farmers can scale back their farming enterprises and retain a significant support payment. This offers a practical and readily available means for farmers to move to retirement at any stage and with minimum bureaucracy.
Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute
Mr J McCallister asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will make public the details of the business case that has been used as the basis for her decision to sell the facilities owned by her department at Crossnacreevy; and to detail what other options, as an alternative to this sale, were considered.
(AQW 914/08)
Ms Gildernew: The proposed disposal of the Crossnacreevy site is about Government’s obligations to make best use of its capital assets and about the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute’s (AFBI) future strategic needs.
Prior to my announcement on 12 June, DARD and AFBI jointly had already begun a review of AFBI’s needs and utilisation of the estate it occupies. The initial scoping study for this review concluded that the relocation of the activities and facilities at Crossnacreevy to another site was feasible. This conclusion opened up the possibility that the current site could be sold without any adverse impact on AFBI’s activities.
The AFBI estate review has now moved on to the next phase. This includes the preparation of business cases that will address the options for the relocation of the facilities and work carried out at and disposal of the Crossnacreevy site. Once the business cases are finalised I will be very happy to make the details available.
EU Agriculture and Fisheries Meeting
Mr G Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail what benefits were secured for the agricultural community in Northern Ireland, at the meeting of EU Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers in Porto, from 16-18 September 2007.
(AQW 1051/08)
Ms Gildernew: The meeting of EU Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers in Porto was an informal meeting of the EU Agriculture Council hosted by the Portuguese Presidency. The hosting of an informal Council meeting is normal practice at the start of each new six month Presidency. A Presidency paper entitled ‘Importance of agri-food sector to the sustainable development of rural territories’ was the subject of debate.
Informal meetings of the EU Council have no legal status. Consequently, no decisions are taken at such meetings and so there are no direct benefits for the agricultural community in the North that could accrue from the recent informal meeting in Porto.
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Motorcycle Road Races
Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what consideration has been given to permitting organisers of motorcycle road races to charge entry to their events.
(AQW 698/08)
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr Poots): I am aware that, currently, legislation only provides for charging into the Dundrod circuit during the Ulster Grand Prix. Officials within my Department are in ongoing discussions with the umbrella body for motorsport, the 2&4 Wheel Motorsport Steering Group Limited, about the wider implications this may have for organisers of other motorsports events and how issues in relation to charging at those events might be addressed.
Dundrod Circuit (Admission Charges) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003
Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to give his assessment of the impact of the Dundrod Circuit (Admission Charges) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003.
(AQW 701/08)
Mr Poots: The Dundrod Circuit (Admission Charges) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 provides for the organisers of the Ulster Grand Prix to levy an admission charge on spectators attending this event. The umbrella body for motorsport, the 2&4 Wheel Motorsport Steering Group Limited (2&4 Wheel MSG), has raised concerns with DCAL about the implications of these Regulations on investment opportunities for other motorsport events. DCAL officials are in on-going discussions with 2&4 Wheel MSG on this issue and how it might be addressed.
Library Services
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to provide an estimate of the number of administration and management staff that will be required in the various grades of library service, following the establishment of the proposed new Library Authority.
(AQW 734/08)
Mr Poots: The Chief Executive (designate) of the proposed Library Authority is considering the staffing structure of the Library Authority as part of the work she is undertaking on organisational design with senior library staff in the Education and Library Boards.
Once I have had an opportunity to consider her proposals I will advise the Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee.
Library Services
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will provide assurances that the core library services will be free to the general public at the point of use, following the establishment of the proposed Library Authority.
(AQW 735/08)
Mr Poots: Yes. The Libraries Bill as drafted is designed to reflect current practice in charging the public for certain library services. The Department’s policy guidelines, Delivering Tomorrow’s Libraries, state that "the public library service exists to make available to all, free at the point of use, books and information which provide opportunities for learning, knowledge and inspiration".
Library Services
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the number of administration and management staff within the Northern Ireland Library Service, broken down by grade.
(AQW 738/08)
Mr Poots: A table detailing the information requested is attached.
ANNEX
GRADE |
IN POST |
|---|---|
| Second Tier | 5 |
| Assistant Senior Education Officer | 1 |
| Education Officer | 2 |
| Senior Principal Officer | 5 |
| Principal Officer | 3 |
| Assistant Principal Officer | 2 |
| Senior Administration Officer | 5 |
| Administration Officer | 13 |
| Senior Executive Officer | 12 |
| Executive Officer | 22 |
| Senior Clerical Officer | 22 |
| Clerical Officer | 6 |
| TOTAL | 98 |
Library Services
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what is his assessment of the land and property requirements of the new Library Authority and related administration; and to detail (a) whether there will be a requirement for additional or new accommodation; (b) the estimated cost of new accommodation; and (c) the value of any surplus land and property.
(AQW 739/08)
Mr Poots: The existing public libraries and library administration buildings will transfer from the Education and Library Boards to the Library Authority in a scheme for the transfer of assets. In considering the organisational design of the Library Authority, an assessment will be made of the continuing need for the existing administration buildings. The value of any that are surplus will be calculated at that point.
The only new accommodation foreseen is for the headquarters of the Library Authority. Negotiations are underway for temporary premises in Lisburn which will cost around £30,000 per year in rent, rates and service charge. A permanent location for the Library Authority has not yet been considered.
Sporting Facilities
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what support his department is giving to provide additional sporting facilities, throughout all of the rural areas in North Antrim.
(AQW 752/08)
Mr Poots: Article 10 of The Recreation and Youth Service (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 states that each District Council has statutory responsibility for the provision of leisure and recreation facilities within its area. Therefore the responsibility to provide additional sporting facilities throughout all of the rural areas in North Antrim falls to the District Councils in that area. This would therefore be a matter for Ballymena, Ballymoney, and Moyle, Borough Councils.
1911 Census of Ireland Microfilm
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to explain the reasons why the 1911 census of Ireland microfilm is still not available in the Public Record Office in Northern Ireland, when his department promised in 2002 that that it would be copied and placed on public record; and what is the timetable for this to be made available.
(AQW 753/08)
Mr Poots: It was the intention of the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) to purchase microfilm copies of the 1911 census but because of technical difficulties in duplicating the films these plans were delayed. In the meantime PRONI was aware that the National Archives of Ireland in Dublin were keen to index and digitise both the 1901 and 1911 census in which case it would have been wasteful of public funding for PRONI to acquire microfilm copies.
In the autumn of 2005 the government in the Republic of Ireland announced that funding would be made available for the digitisation of both the 1901 and 1911 census returns for the whole island of Ireland. These will be available online without charge. This is being implemented as a joint project between the National Archives of Ireland and Library and Archives Canada. Phase one to make the 1911 census for Dublin available will be launched shortly. Cos Antrim and Down, including Belfast, will be in phase two which is to be launched in the Spring of 2008. It will therefore be unnecessary for PRONI to obtain microfilm copies of the 1911 census for Northern Ireland.
Cost of Translations
Mr D Kennedy asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the total cost of translating all Northern Ireland Government departments' official documents and papers into non-English language mediums, broken down by language.
(AQW 800/08)
Mr Poots: Detailed breakdowns of translation costs for each Government Department for each of the last five years are provided in the following tables:
| BREAKDOWN OF TRANSLATIONS 2002/03, 2003/04, 2004/05, 2005/06 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BREAKDOWN FOR 2002/03 | ||||||
| DEPARTMENT | TOTAL 2002/03 | Irish | Ulster Scots | * Ethnic | Sign | ** Other |
| DHSSPS | £95,620.11 | £89,152.86 | £0.00 | £6,467.25 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| NIO | £123,150.11 | £679.36 | £413.00 | £121,790.75 | £85.00 | £182.00 |
| DE | £98,993.67 | £35,521.79 | £0.00 | £58,497.63 | £599.70 | £4,374.55 |
| DETI | £987.68 | £176.02 | £0.00 | £811.66 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DEL | £4,726.86 | £655.00 | £0.00 | £719.90 | £3,351.96 | £0.00 |
| OFMDFM | £43,176.87 | £26,208.99 | £7,415.50 | £2,522.00 | £1,528.00 | £5,502.38 |
| DOE | £296.50 | £154.50 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £142.00 | £0.00 |
| DSD | £18,183.86 | £57.50 | £0.00 | £16,836.02 | £1,290.34 | £0.00 |
| DFP | £177.17 | £177.17 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DCAL | £39,718.86 | £38,061.61 | £149.85 | £495.00 | £1,012.40 | £0.00 |
| DARD | £981.49 | £310.89 | £0.00 | £670.60 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DRD | NIL RETURN | |||||
|
TOTAL |
£426,013.18 |
£191,155.69 |
£7,978.35 |
£208,810.81 |
£8,009.40 |
£10,058.93 |
| BREAKDOWN 2003/04 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DEPARTMENT |
TOTAL 2003/04 |
IRISH |
ULSTER SCOTS |
* ETHNIC |
SIGN |
** OTHER |
NIO |
£115,001.83 |
£687.38 |
£0.00 |
£111,583.79 |
£2,730.66 |
£0.00 |
DE |
£119,929.38 |
£22,963.22 |
£69.95 |
£96,780.01 |
£104.20 |
£12.00 |
DARD |
£1,305.36 |
£76.59 |
£0.00 |
£1,175.78 |
£0.00 |
£52.99 |
DEL |
£11,039.00 |
£0.00 |
£1,028.00 |
£9,028.70 |
£104.20 |
£878.10 |
DETI |
£3,697.68 |
£2,075.93 |
£0.00 |
£523.93 |
£120.11 |
£977.71 |
DFP |
£1,898.45 |
£1,060.13 |
£0.00 |
£838.32 |
£0.00 |
£0.00 |
DHSSPS |
£31,466.55 |
£29,305.80 |
£0.00 |
£2,160.75 |
£0.00 |
£0.00 |
DOE |
£74.95 |
£74.95 |
£0.00 |
£0.00 |
£0.00 |
£0.00 |
DRD |
£539.04 |
£195.00 |
£134.04 |
£210.00 |
£0.00 |
£0.00 |
DSD |
£53,913.74 |
£482.50 |
£0.00 |
£52,556.86 |
£874.38 |
£0.00 |
OFMDFM |
£22,505.61 |
£4,764.15 |
£354.00 |
£1,375.51 |
£15,734.65 |
£277.30 |
DCAL |
£53,652.58 |
£51,593.12 |
£444.50 |
£1,350.00 |
£264.96 |
£0.00 |
TOTAL |
£415,024.17 |
£113,278.77 |
£2,030.49 |
£277,583.65 |
£19,933.16 |
£2,198.10 |
| BREAKDOWN 2004/05 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEPARTMENT | TOTAL 2004/05 | IRISH | ULSTER SCOTS | * ETHNIC | SIGN | ** OTHER |
| NIO | £257,878.70 | £2,058.69 | £558.06 | £158,670.32 | £4,161.52 | £92,430.11 |
| DE | £37,416.37 | £24,554.49 | £0.00 | £9,800.30 | £3,061.58 | £0.00 |
| DARD | £1,370.98 | £311.90 | £0.00 | £1,059.08 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DEL | £12,557.82 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £50.00 | £2,654.63 | £9,853.19 |
| DETI | £3,603.36 | £309.97 | £45.50 | £1,740.01 | £1,507.88 | £0.00 |
| DFP | £1,958.86 | £625.06 | £295.54 | £715.11 | £102.34 | £220.81 |
| DHSSPS | £13,515.01 | £9,592.76 | £0.00 | £152.75 | £0.00 | £3,769.50 |
| DOE | £724.02 | £109.02 | £225.00 | £390.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DRD | £3,798.99 | £338.24 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £3,108.24 | £352.51 |
| DSD | £112,612.59 | £251.39 | £0.00 | £98,092.67 | £3,154.70 | £11,113.83 |
| OFMDFM | £1,695.36 | £494.36 | £0.00 | £1,195.00 | £0.00 | £6.00 |
| DCAL | £37,403.23 | £28,575.59 | £568.71 | £5,425.00 | £2,833.93 | £0.00 |
| TOTAL | £484,535.29 | £67,221.47 | £1,692.81 | £277,290.24 | £20,584.82 | £117,745.95 |
| BREAKDOWN 2005/06 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEPARTMENT | TOTAL 2005/06 | IRISH | ULSTER SCOTS | * ETHNIC | SIGN | ** OTHER |
| NIO | £527,454.57 | £480.76 | £0.00 | £510,893.87 | £16,079.94 | £0.00 |
| DE | £37,827.10 | £19,349.27 | £0.00 | £14,094.27 | £3,559.65 | £823.91 |
| DARD | £5,076.85 | £3,192.16 | £95.89 | £1,590.00 | £0.00 | £198.80 |
| DEL | £232,064.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £230,841.00 | £1,223.00 | £0.00 |
| DETI | £7,510.19 | £390.89 | £0.00 | £5,430.59 | £1,611.17 | £77.54 |
| DFP | £1,498.03 | £899.73 | £0.00 | £180.00 | £356.50 | £61.80 |
| DHSSPS | £27,262.66 | £8,974.00 | £0.00 | £17,545.66 | £0.00 | £743.00 |
| DOE | £16,330.78 | £7,290.06 | £7,931.62 | £309.10 | £800.00 | £0.00 |
| DRD | £546.04 | £436.04 | £0.00 | £110.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DSD | £309,871.19 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £308,602.40 | £561.00 | £707.79 |
| OFMDFM | £24,081.60 | £2,740.77 | £515.36 | £15,210.47 | £4,291.60 | £1,323.40 |
| DCAL | £25,183.92 | £20,801.17 | £783.40 | £1,535.90 | £532.30 | £1,531.15 |
| TOTAL | £1,214,706.93 | £64,554.85 | £9,326.27 | £1,106,343.26 | £29,015.16 | £5,467.39 |
| BREAKDOWN 2006/07 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEPARTMENT | TOTAL 2006/07 | IRISH | ULSTER SCOTS | ETHNIC* | SIGN | OTHER** |
| NIO | £359,775.00 | £1,963.00 | £193.00 | £337,935.00 | £19,070.00 | £614.00 |
| DE | £235,520.11 | £19,371.88 | £50.61 | £212,177.62 | £3,590.00 | £330.00 |
| DARD | £8,723.20 | £2,087.49 | £489.77 | £6,145.94 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DEL | £118,987.71 | £2,375.06 | £630.00 | £35,795.65 | £80,187.00 | £0.00 |
| DETI | £12,482.65 | £223.75 | £0.00 | £11,622.02 | £113.00 | £523.88 |
| DFP | £14,040.03 | £9,971.29 | £0.00 | £174.36 | £3,763.88 | £130.50 |
| DHSSPS | £14,786.46 | £14,046.45 | £0.00 | £740.01 | £0.00 | £0.00 |
| DOE | £22,246.57 | £20,145.87 | £1,060.50 | £508.20 | £532.00 | £0.00 |
| DRD | £5,042.51 | £410.67 | £175.00 | £1,547.34 | £2,593.00 | £316.50 |
| DSD | £262,630.97 | £1,932.88 | £0.00 | £257,924.33 | £990.95 | £1,782.81 |
| OFMDFM | £14,926.86 | £3,891.97 | £499.60 | £7,815.46 | £2,111.40 | £608.43 |
| DCAL | £44,918.38 | £40,667.70 | £0.00 | £2,191.31 | £0.00 | £2,059.37 |
| TOTAL | £1,114,080.45 | £117,088.01 | £3,098.48 | £874,577.24 | £112,951.23 | £6,365.49 |
* Ethnic refers to translations other than English, Irish and Ulster-Scots
** Other refers to braille and interpretation costs
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr K McCarthy asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail how the Deloitte Touche report, ‘The Cost of Division – A Shared Future Strategy’ is being taken into account within his department's approach to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 824/08)
Mr Poots: My Department is committed to ensuring that it fulfils its duties under both Section 75(1) and (2) of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 in relation to the promotion of equality of opportunity and the desirability of promoting good relations. Promotion of equality of opportunity and good relations is an important part of departmental policy development, legislative activities and operational programmers. For each of the Comprehensive Spending Review 2007 spending and efficiency proposals put forward by the Department a High Level Equality Impact Assessment (HLIA), agreed by the Equality Commission for the Comprehensive Spending Review process, has been completed showing how each proposal has been considered against both duties.
The report ‘The Cost of Division –A Shared Future Strategy ‘was a piece of independent research commissioned by the previous administration and represents the views of Deloitte Touche. Therefore my department did not consider this report during the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
Irish Language Community
Mr F Brolly asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what steps he has taken to liaise with the Irish language community, since he took up office.
(AQW 874/08)
Mr Poots: I have recently met with representatives from the Irish language community to discuss Irish language legislation, the recommendations of the Council of Europe Committee of Experts on Regional or Minority Languages duty to adopt a strategy to enhance and protect the development of the Irish language.
Arts Council
Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to provide a breakdown of the number of staff within the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, per head of population, compared to the Arts Councils of England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
(AQW 888/08)
Mr Poots: The information requested is shown in the table below.
Arts Council |
No. of Staff |
Population |
Population per member of staff |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | 700 | 50,762,900 | 72,518 |
| Scotland | 90 | 5,116,900 | 56,854 |
| Wales | 124 | 2,965,900 | 23,919 |
| Republic of Ireland | 105 | 4,109,086 | 39,134 |
| Northern Ireland | 56 | 1,710,300 | 30,541 |
The Arts Council staff total includes 5 temporary staff and 2 university student placements.
Arts Council
Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to provide a breakdown of Annual Support for Organisations Programme contributions allocated by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland to the Grand Opera House, Belfast, in each of the last three years.
(AQW 889/08)
Mr Poots: Annual Support for Organisations Programme contributions allocated by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland to the Grand Opera House in each of the last three years are shown below:
Financial year |
Amount allocated (£) |
|---|---|
| 2007/08 | 492,921 |
| 2006/07 | 492,921 |
| 2005/06 | 485,000 |
Ulster-Scots
Mr N McCausland asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail what progress has been made in preparing to move the Ulster-Scots language from part 2 to part 3 of the Council of Europe Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.
(AQW 946/08)
Mr Poots: A draft road map has been developed by the Ulster Scots Academy Implementation Group Partnership Board outlining how the criteria could be met for Ulster-Scots to attain Part III status. This was done at the request of an Ulster Scots Future Search Group convened by my Department. Government Departments have considered the document and responded to the Partnership Board who in turn submitted a revised document for further consideration by the Interdepartmental Charter Implementation Group (ICIG). ICIG agreed to take on board both the Partnership Board’s and Departments’ comments and prepare a revised road map for discussion at its next meeting.
Education
Transfer Test
Mr P Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the breakdown of costs and the number of personnel involved in devising, trialling and administering the transfer test each year.
(AQW 220/08)
The Minister of Education (Ms Ruane): The Transfer Test is estimated to cost the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) in excess of £500,000 to devise, trial and administer. Around 50% of the total cost is accounted for by the development and trialling of test papers, with around 30% accounted for by the marking and re-marking of test papers. The remaining 20% of costs relate to printing, postage, processing of entries and information management. This estimate reflects the fact that a number of CCEA staff engaged in these activities also undertake other functions within the organisation, so an exact head count is not appropriate, but staffing costs are factored into the overall estimate. The figure excludes the cost of invigilation, ongoing support for schools and the issue of results to schools and parents, all of which are more difficult to accurately estimate as they involve organisations other than CCEA.
Bunschoil an Chaistil
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Education to give a timescale for Bunschoil an Chaistil to (i) receive an upgrade of its C2K service; (ii) receive lunch facilities; and to detail how the Club Bank Scheme is progressing towards a new school in Ballycastle, and whether her department has settled upon a design for this new school.
(AQW 280/08)
Ms Ruane: (i) Bunscoil an Chaistil is using standalone ICT equipment supplied by Classroom 2000 (C2k) because its current temporary accommodation does not have the cabling necessary to enable it to have a fully networked internal system. The Department is currently working with the North Eastern Education and Library Board and C2k to ensure that Bunscoil an Chaistil will be fully equipped and connected to the C2k network, thus ensuring that they can take full advantage of the benefits of ICT, as well as meeting their responsibilities under the new curricular and assessment arrangements. The solution for the school has still to be determined but it is expected that the work will be completed in the next few months.
(ii) The North Eastern Education and Library Board is currently providing school meals for 7 to 8 pupils at Bunscoil an Chaistil. These pupils are entitled to free school meals and the meals are delivered daily to the school from St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s High School and eaten in the nursery classroom. Due to the small numbers involved the Board has not provided a separate school meal servery.
(iii) Arrangements for a Club Bank scheme are currently the subject of consideration between the Department and Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta. The Department has not yet agreed a design for the school.
Dyslexia
Mr K McCarthy asked the Minister of Education to detail the earliest age at which her department can make provision for children with dyslexia in the Ards peninsula.
(AQW 437/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education does not make special education provision. Under special education legislation Education and Library Boards (ELBs) are responsible for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making special educational provision for children in their areas.
This provision, which includes provision for children with dyslexia, is matched to individual needs and for which no age limit has been prescribed by the Department.
All-Island Autism Centre
Mr T Lunn asked the Minister of Education what progress has been made on an all-island autism centre.
(AQO 294/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education in partnership with the Department of Education and Science is taking forward the arrangements needed to enable the Middletown Centre for Autism to begin offering services.
Following the purchase of the property in June 2004 and the approval of a comprehensive revised economic appraisal in July 2006 considerable progress has been made in the establishment of the Centre.
The appointment of the Board of Directors by the two Departments is now complete and the Middletown Centre for Autism Ltd was incorporated as a company on 16th March 2007.
The Chief Executive Officer for the Centre commenced employment in April 2007, with two Heads of Division taking up their posts in September and October. They will be taking forward the work required to commence service delivery. The recruitment of the Head of Corporate Services is also underway.
An Integrated Design Team led by the two Departments is taking forward the refurbishment and building project, which is being planned to facilitate the phasing of services until the completion of the building works. Consultations with stakeholders took place in August and September to help inform the design of the Centre.
The Board and Senior Management Team intend to undertake an extensive consultation exercise during the Autumn/Winter 2007 period with all those involved with children and young people with autism. The purpose of this consultation is to inform and invite comments regarding the proposed services to be delivered from the Centre.
Teaching Salaries
Mr S Moutray asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 70/08, to detail the number of teachers whose salaries were included in the figures that she provided, broken down by sector, for each of the last five years.
(AQW 481/08)
Ms Ruane: The number of teachers whose salaries were included in the figures provided in AQW 70/08, broken down by sector, for each of the last five years is detailed in the attached table.
| Sector |
2002/2003 |
2003/2004 |
2004/2005 |
2005/2006 |
2006/2007 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Controlled | 8,763 | 8,842 | 8,853 | 8,686 | 8,510 |
| Controlled Integrated | 226 | 255 | 270 | 270 | 263 |
| Grant Maintained | 775 | 794 | 841 | 876 | 903 |
| Maintained | 7,020 | 7,014 | 6,939 | 6,824 | 6,669 |
| Other Maintained | 78 | 81 | 79 | 81 | 81 |
| Irish Medium | 168 | 180 | 187 | 194 | 196 |
| Total | 17,030 | 17,166 | 17,169 | 16,931 | 16,622 |
After-School Clubs
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to introduce after-school clubs in rural areas in the next year; and, if so, what will be the locations of such clubs.
(AQW 493/08)
Ms Ruane: Just under a quarter of the 494 schools currently in the extended school programme are classified as rural. The programme is targeted at socially disadvantaged schools across all areas and I have no plans to introduce a specific strand of the programme targeted solely at rural areas.
St. Aloysius High School, Cushendall
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education to detail the current situation regarding the proposals to close St. Aloysius High School in Cushendall.
(AQW 494/08)
Ms Ruane: The Trustees and CCMS are examining possible rationalisation of post-primary provision in the Glens and East Antrim area involving three schools, including St Aloysius High School. CCMS are working on an economic appraisal which covers options for rationalising provision, and which will be presented on completion to the Department of Education. Any proposal for rationalisation which CCMS and the Trustees bring forward in due course will require the publication of a statutory development proposal, which will be the subject of consultation.
Academic Selection
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education to detail what progress has been made on the proposals to end academic selection; and to give a timescale within which her proposals will be fully implemented.
(AQW 495/08)
Ms Ruane: I am aware of the need to put in place suitable transfer arrangements in time for the cohort transferring from primary to post-primary education in 2010 and will be bringing forward proposals as soon as possible. It is well known that I am not in favour of selection on the basis of ability, but I am also conscious of the need to engage with those who hold opposing views to determine new post-primary admissions arrangements for this cohort. Rather than imposing artificial deadlines, the priority must be to make the right decision for the children affected, within a broader view of the shape and nature of post-primary education.
Pupils in Irish Language Schools
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of Irish language schools in Northern Ireland, broken down by constituency; and (ii) the number of pupils that are enrolled in each of these schools.
(AQW 505/08)
Ms Ruane: The latest available school enrolment information relates to the 2006/07 academic year. There were 21 grant-aided Irish language primary and post-primary schools in the North of Ireland in 2006/07. They had a total enrolment of 2,530 pupils. In addition, there were two independent Irish language schools, with a combined enrolment of 24 pupils.
Local Business Needs
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 91/08, what meetings she has had with Northern Ireland business leaders, to ascertain how the education system can develop the skills of young people for life and work in the 21st century; and what emphasis was placed upon employability and entrepreneurship in these meetings.
(AQW 507/08)
Ms Ruane: Since taking up the post of Minister for Education I have met representatives of the following groups on the dates specified:
Irish Association of Social, Cultural & Economic Relations: 03 July 2007
Confederation of British Industry: 25 July 2007
Ulster Farmers Union: 25 July 2007
Institute of Directors: 08 August 2007
Business in the Community 06 September 2007
These meetings have provided an opportunity for very useful engagement on the contribution that education can and does make to employment, enterprise and wider economic development.
Raising educational standards and ensuring young people have the necessary skills to progress into employment is crucial for our long-term economic success. It is for that reason that the revised curriculum now includes a specific focus, as part of Learning for Life and Work, on employability and entrepreneurship. That focus is complemented by other work to strengthen links between business and education, including in relation to improving careers education, advice and guidance.
Young Peoples' Skills
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 91/07, to detail what priority her department places upon developing the skills of young people, so that they make a greater contribution to improving Northern Ireland's economic competitiveness.
(AQW 509/08)
Ms Ruane: Developing the skills and potential of our young people is one of my key priorities for education and I have taken account of the views of employers and business leaders on the skills our young people need.
The revised curriculum, being phased in from this school year, will help to develop highly skilled, confident, creative and articulate young people, crucial to improving our economic competitiveness. Skills are an integral part of the statutory revised curriculum. Pupils will develop the cross-curricular skills of Communication, Using Mathematics and Using ICT through the curriculum Areas of Learning, along with the other skills and personal capabilities sought by employers, including Working With Others, Self-Management, Managing Information, Problem-Solving and Being Creative.
Pupils will also be assessed each year in their progress in developing skills as well as knowledge and understanding. This will therefore provide a clear pathway to ensure pupils leave school with the skills they need for their future, and to contribute to our economic competitiveness.
Bus Passes
Mr T Burns asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of bus passes that were issued to school children in Crumlin and Glenavy for the academic year 2007/08; and to detail the total cost incurred by her department in respect of this issue.
(AQW 521/08)
Ms Ruane: The North-Eastern and South-Eastern Education and Library Boards have advised that a total of 1,388 Translink bus passes have been issued to pupils travelling to school from the Crumlin/Glenavy area for the 2007/08 academic year, at a total cost of £804,953.
School Amalgamations
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Education if she will make a statement on the amalgamation of St Patrick's Primary School, Cloney, and St Joseph's Primary School, Ahoghill, with specific reference to the transfer of pupils affected by the process.
(AQW 528/08)
Ms Ruane: Earlier this year I approved a proposal brought forward by the Trustees and the CCMS to amalgamate the two schools. The amalgamation is planned to take effect in January and would involve the transfer of pupils to St Joseph’s Primary School. I understand that with the start of term a significant number of pupils at St Patrick’s have transferred to other schools and the Department is therefore asking CCMS to review the position regarding the proposed amalgamation.
St Aloysius High School, Cushendall
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Education if she will make a statement on the possible closure of St Aloysius Secondary School in Cushendall.
(AQW 529/08)
Ms Ruane: The Trustees and the CCMS are examining possible rationalisation of post-primary provision in the Glens and East Antrim area involving three schools, including St Aloysius High School. CCMS are working on an economic appraisal which covers options for rationalising provision and which will be presented on completion to the Department of Education. Any proposal for rationalisation which CCMS and the Trustees bring forward in due course will require the publication of a statutory development proposal, which will be the subject of consultation.
Transport For Students
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education what consideration she will give to the provision of paid transport to all pupils travelling from the Glenariff, Cushendall and Cushendun areas to Cross and Passion College, Ballycastle, in light of the fact that the nearest secondary school to these areas, St Aloysius, has been earmarked for closure, and has not had any pupils enrolling for Year 11 in this academic year.
(AQW 530/08)
Ms Ruane: Following the provision of an economic appraisal examining options for rationalising post-primary school provision in the Glens and East Antrim area, the Department has requested that further work is undertaken on the appraisal. However, consideration of this issue is at an early stage and no decision has yet been taken about the future of St Aloysius High School. Any change in existing provision would require the publication of a statutory development proposal to be preceded by consultation with the Boards of Governors, staff and parents of the schools involved.
Until such times as a decision has been taken regarding the future of St Aloysius High School, the normal home to school transport arrangements apply. Accordingly, under those arrangements, pupils must apply to, and be turned down by, St Aloysius High School, and any other maintained post-primary school within three miles of their homes, before being eligible to receive transport assistance to Cross and Passion College, Ballycastle.
School Buses
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of pupils; and (ii) the number and capacity of buses, travelling from Glenariff, Cushendall and Cushendun to Cross and Passion College, Ballycastle, since the beginning of September 2007.
(AQW 533/08)
Ms Ruane: Translink has advised that from Glenariff, Cushendall and Cushendun it currently transports 88 pupils to Cross and Passion College using two buses, 1 x 53 seater and 1 x 51 seater. I should advise, however, that of these 88 pupils only 37 are in receipt of home to school transport assistance.
School Amalgamations
Mr G Adams asked the Minister of Education to give an update on the development proposal on the amalgamation of St. John the Baptist Boys' Primary School and St. John the Baptist Girls' Primary School on Finaghy Road, Belfast.
(AQW 546/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department is aware that the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) has discussed with the Trustees, Boards of Governors, staff and parents, the possible amalgamation of St John the Baptist Boys’ Primary School and St John the Baptist Girls’ Primary School, Belfast.
The CCMS have advised that there may be a requirement for a capital scheme to facilitate the amalgamation and the future long-term needs of the schools and have requested approval from the department for a feasibility study to be carried out, prior to the publication of a development proposal, to determine the recommended option for addressing both schools’ future accommodation needs,. This request is currently being considered.
Primary School Pupils in the Ards Peninsula Area
Mr A Easton asked the Minister of Education to detail the current pupil figures for each primary school in the Ards peninsula area.
(AQW 559/08)
Ms Ruane: The latest available school enrolment information relates to the 2006/07 academic year.
Enrolment figures for primary schools in the Ards District Council area
School Name |
Total pupils |
|---|---|
| Abbey Primary School | 623 |
| Alexander Dickson Primary School | 153 |
| Andrews Memorial Primary School | 366 |
| Ballykeigle Primary School | 59 |
| Ballyvester Primary School | 73 |
| Ballywalter Primary School | 175 |
| Carrickmannon Primary School | 87 |
| Carrowdore Primary school | 141 |
| Castle Gardens Primary School | 344 |
| Comber Primary School | 369 |
| Donaghadee Primary School | 417 |
| Greyabbey Primary School | 76 |
| Killinchy Primary School | 309 |
| Kircubbin Primary School | 104 |
| Kirkistown Primary School | 101 |
| Londonderry Primary School | 313 |
| Loughries Primary School | 72 |
| Millisle Primary School | 143 |
| Newtownards Model Primary School | 375 |
| Portaferry Integrated Primary School | 83 |
| Portavogie Primary School | 197 |
| Regent House School Preparatory Department | 137 |
| St. Anne’s Primary School | 34 |
| St. Finian’s Primary School | 126 |
| St. Mary’s Primary School, Ballygowan | 3 |
| St. Mary’s Primary School, Comber | 37 |
| St. Mary’s Primary School, Kircubbin | 122 |
| St. Mary’s Primary School, Portaferry | 236 |
| St. Patrick’s Primary School | 89 |
| Victoria Primary School | 556 |
| Victoria Primary School, Ballyhalbert | 136 |
| West Winds Primary School | 156 |
Source: NI School Census.
Note:
- Figures for primary schools include children in nursery, reception and Year 1 – 7 classes.
- Schools in the Ards District Council area have been used as representative of those located in the Ards peninsula.
Donaghadee High School
Mr A Easton asked the Minister of Education to detail the current pupil figures for Donaghadee High School, broken down by form year, and the special needs section.
(AQW 560/08)
Ms Ruane: The latest available school enrolment information relates to the 2006/07 academic year. The information requested is as follows:
The latest available school enrolment information relates to the 2006/07 academic year. The information requested is as follows:
| Year Group | Pupils attending mainstream classes | Pupils in a special unit | Total |
| 8 | 19 | 13 | 32 |
| 9 | 38 | 25 | 63 |
| 10 | 27 | 18 | 45 |
| 11 | 55 | 0 | 55 |
| 12 | 53 | 0 | 53 |
| total | 192 | 56 | 248 |
Source: NI School Census
Retired Teachers
Mr P Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of retired teachers who have returned to, or are currently in, paid employment in non-teaching positions in (i) her department; (ii) Education and Library Boards; (iii) Regional Training Unit; (iv) the Catholic Council for Maintained Schools; and (v) other bodies that fall within her department's sresponsibility, on a temporary and permanent basis, for the last year for which statistics are available.
(AQW 573/08)
Ms Ruane: This information requested is not routinely collected by the Department of Education or the sponsor bodies which fall within its area of responsibility. However the Regional Training Unit has advised the Department that currently there are nineteen retired head teachers / school leaders in temporary employment with them, NICIE has advised that it employs one retired teacher in its core staff and CnaG has advised that it employs one teacher who took voluntary redundancy but who is in receipt of a teachers pension.
Creationism
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 215/08, to detail the recommendations and advice given to her department by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment, in relation to meetings it has had with interested parties in relation to the teaching of (i) evolution; (ii) creationism; and (iii) Intelligent Design, in schools in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 633/08)
Ms Ruane: CCEA has a statutory duty to advise me on school curriculum issues. In formulating advice, CCEA tells me that account is taken of the views of relevant interested parties. On this matter, CCEA has on occasion met with interested parties over recent years and listened carefully to their views. CCEA’s advice to the Department remains that, while the revised curriculum provides greater flexibility for teachers to tailor provision for their pupils and greater opportunity for alternative views to evolution to be explored, there must be a distinction between teaching an evidence based approach to scientific theories and knowledge and exploring other beliefs about how the world came into existence.
Creationism
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 208/08, to clarify whether or not, under the revised curriculum, (i) parents, on behalf of their children; and (ii) pupils, on their own behalf, may request that other explanations of the origin and development of life be taught as scientific explanations in science class, and not restricted to Religious Education; and to confirm that teachers may do so, if such a request is granted by the headmaster or Board of Governors of the school.
(AQW 635/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education does not tell teachers how to teach; that is a matter for their professional judgement and the revised curriculum provides greater flexibility for teachers to tailor their provision to best meet the needs and interests of their pupils.
The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) has a statutory duty to advise me on the school curriculum. Its professional advice is that it is important to distinguish between teaching an evidence based approach to scientific theories and knowledge in science lessons, and exploring other beliefs about how the world came into existence, which could take place in other subjects such as RE.
Fair Employment Practices
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister of Education to detail the fair employment practices within the Western Education and Library Board; and to provide a breakdown of the number of staff employed at each grade, and their religious background.
(AQW 642/08)
Ms Ruane: The Western Education and Library Board (the Board) has advised that it is committed to fair employment practices and positively promotes equality of opportunity in accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. The Board is opposed to all forms of unlawful discrimination, direct or indirect, against any person in the recruitment and selection process, in training, or in any other way. All staff involved in the recruitment and selection process are trained in accordance with agreed procedures on recruitment and selection, including equal opportunities awareness training. The Board also ensures that advertisements do not indicate or appear to indicate an intention to discriminate in the recruitment or selection and it includes an equal opportunities statement in all its advertisements.
In compliance with the Fair Employment (Monitoring) Regulations (NI) 1999 the Board undertakes to submit an annual monitoring return to the Equality Commission in respect of all its applicants, employees, appointees, promotees and leavers. It also undertakes, for presentation to the Equality Commission, a triennial review of its staff detailing any affirmative action which is required to be taken arising from an analysis of same.
The information in the attached table relates to non-teaching headquarter/centre-based staff only, i.e. school-based staff are excluded.
Western Education and Library Board: Religious Background of Non-teaching headquarter/centre-based staff
Salary Band (see note below) |
Protestant |
Catholic |
Neither Protestant or Catholic |
Non Determined |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 39 | 83 | 2 | 2 | 126 |
| 2 | 46 | 84 | 2 | 0 | 132 |
| 3 | 23 | 52 | 3 | 2 | 80 |
| 4 | 5 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 12 |
| Total | 113 | 226 | 7 | 4 | 350 |
The table shows the perceived religious background of these staff as at 1 January 2007 broken down by salary band. The information is not available for publication by grade.
Note
Salary Band 1: Clerical Officer to Senior Clerical Officer
Salary Band 2: Executive Officer to Administrative Officer
Salary Band 3: Senior Administrative to Education Officer
Salary Band 4: Assistant Senior Education Officer to Chief Executive
School Amalgamations
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Education what consideration she has given to the use of the land available at Killyleagh High School, as a suitable site for the amalgamation of Down Academy and Rowallane Integrated High School.
(AQW 656/08)
Ms Ruane: Development proposals have been published seeking the closure of Down Academy Controlled Integrated High School and the establishment of a new Grant maintained Integrated school, Blackwater Integrated College, which would incorporate the pupils from Down Academy and the independent school, Rowallane Integrated College.
The interim Board of Governors of the proposed new school have been taking forward a feasibility study for the proposed new college and this will consider site options for a new school. They have indicated in their published development proposal a preference for the new school to be sited in the greater Crossgar area.
The interim Board of Governors have not as yet proposed any specific site to the department.
School Amalgamations
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Education what consideration she has given to the use of a greenfield site at Crossgar, as a suitable site for the amalgamation of Down Academy and Rowallane Integrated High School.
(AQW 657/08)
Ms Ruane: Development proposals have been published seeking the closure of Down Academy Controlled Integrated High School and the establishment of a new Grant maintained Integrated school, Blackwater Integrated College, which would incorporate the pupils from Down Academy and the independent school, Rowallane Integrated College.
The interim Board of Governors of the proposed new school have been taking forward a feasibility study for the proposed new college and this will consider site options for a new school. They have indicated in their published development proposal a preference for the new school to be sited in the greater Crossgar area.
The interim Board of Governors have not as yet proposed any specific site to the department.
Education Welfare Officers
Mr M McLaughlin asked the Minister of Education what is her assessment of whether or not it is appropriate to evaluate Education Welfare Officers' posts using the NJC job evaluation scheme; and of whether or not this adequately reflects the knowledge, skills and roles performed by Education Welfare Officers in the context in which they work.
(AQW 669/08)
Ms Ruane: The Education and Libraries Boards, as employers, are responsible for the arrangements used to evaluate positions and determine pay. The Boards have advised that the grading of Education Welfare Officers is largely determined by a national and agreed process of Job Evaluation. This process takes account of a range of factors relating to the job including supervisory responsibility, creativity, contacts, decision making , knowledge and skills (including qualification), and work context and is regarded as much fairer than a determination solely based on qualification. It is for the Boards to decide if this is no longer appropriate.
School Budgets
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education to specify the exact date upon which the alteration to the funding arrangements for allocating budgets for equipment and fixtures for new schools took effect, in all Education and Library Board areas.
(AQW 672/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education reviewed the methodology for allocating budgets for furniture & equipment in 2003 with the new methodology being introduced in December 2003. The revised methodology is based on approved schedules of accommodation and standard furniture and equipment lists and has been applied to all new major capital projects announced since 2004. Prior to this the budgets were allocated as a percentage of the estimated construction costs.
School Budgets
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education to advise whether or not budgets are set for equipment and fixtures for new primary schools, based on the actual capital costs of the building of the school, or on the original estimated capital costs.
(AQW 673/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education reviewed the methodology for allocating budgets for furniture & equipment in 2003 with the new methodology being introduced in December 2003. The revised methodology is based on approved schedules of accommodation and standard furniture and equipment lists and has been applied to all new major capital projects announced since 2004. Prior to this the budgets were allocated as a percentage of the estimated construction costs.
After-School Facilities
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Education to detail the current and future provision for after-school facilities for children with special needs in the North Antrim area.
(AQW 675/08)
Ms Ruane: Almost 500 (40%) of our schools are currently being funded as Extended Schools under The Children and Young People Funding Package to support activities before and after the traditional school day, based on each schools’ particular circumstances. 73 of these schools, all of whom have registered pupils with special needs are located within the NEELB area of which 18 (25%) are located within the North Antrim constituency. Each of these schools offer a varied range of after school programmes which includes activities aimed at raising attainment levels (homework clubs, ICT skills, languages, science clubs, specialist clubs) and fostering the health and well-being of the children (healthy eating, first aid, health and fitness, sports skills, drama and dance clubs, art craft and design). Schools which are not funded through the Extended Schools programme can also offer these services on a voluntary basis whilst others may have secured external funding from various sources such as Neighbourhood Renewal or the Lottery.
The outcome of the CSR will impact on the future provision of these activities.
Legal Proceedings Involving Education and Library Boards
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education to detail the amount of compensation paid in respect of legal proceedings involving Education and Library Boards, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 680/08)
Ms Ruane: The information detailed in the table below has been provided by each Education and Library Board:
| Amount of Compensation Paid in respect of legal proceedings involving Education and Library Boards in each of the last 5 years: | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YEAR | BELB | NEELB | SEELB | SELB | WELB | TOTAL |
| 2002/03 | £189,182.14 | £148,437.82 | £170,138.46 | £122,337.09 | £65,760.00 | |
| 2003/04 | £224,397.10 | £214,095.90 | £210,350.00 | £85,592.80 | £26,445.58 | |
| 2004/05 | £132,104.89 | £159,257.00 | £266,750.00 | £231,025.00 | £118,950.00 | |
| 2005/06 | £258,712.66 | £81,176.00 | £197,743.99 | £162,373.37 | £69,250.00 | |
| 2006/07 | £291,576.08 | £164,650.00 | £180,864.00 | £198,300.00 | £185,857.35 | |
Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta
Mr N McCausland asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the current trustees of Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta; (ii) how each trustee was appointed; (iii) the date of appointment of each trustee; and (iv) the duration of such appointments.
(AQW 705/08)
Ms Ruane: (i) The membership of the trustees is as follows:
Board Member |
Representing |
|---|---|
| Seán Mag Uidhir (Chair) | DE |
| Dónall Ó Baoill | DE |
| Seán Ó Coinn | Comhairle |
| Séamus de Napier | Comhairle |
| Seán Mac Goill | Co-optee |
| Muireann Ní Mhóráin | DE |
| Roise Ní Bhaoill | DE |
(ii) The trustees were appointed under the terms of the trust deed.
(iii) The date of appointment for each trustee is as follows:
Board Member |
Date Appointed |
|---|---|
| Seán Mag Uidhir (Chair) | 20 February 2001 |
| Dónall Ó Baoill | 20 February 2001 |
| Seán Ó Coinn | 01 April 2007 |
| Séamus de Napier | 20 February 2001 |
| Seán Mac Goill | 20 February 2002 |
| Muireann Ní Mhóráin | 17 January 2002 |
| Roise Ní Bhaoill | 17 January 2002 |
(v) Under the terms of Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta’s Declaration of Trust, a term of office lasts for 4 years and each trustee can serve a maximum of 2 consecutive terms.
Enrolment Numbers
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils on the roll in each of the primary schools in the Moyle District Council area, in (a) 2001/02; (b) 2002/03; (c) 2003/04; (d) 2004/05; (e) 2005/06; and (f) 2006/07.
(AQW 728/08)
Ms Ruane: The information requested is as follows:
Pupils enrolled at primary schools in the Moyle District Council area
2001/02
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ARMOY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 68 |
| BALLYCASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 110 |
| BARNISH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 75 |
| BUSHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 161 |
| DUNSEVERICK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 110 |
| GLENANN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 57 |
| MOSSIDE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 17 |
| ST CIARAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 79 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 5 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GLENARIFF | 219 |
| ST OLCAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 70 |
| ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 512 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 105 |
| STRAIDBILLY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 61 |
2002/03
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ARMOY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 62 |
| BALLYCASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 97 |
| BARNISH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 84 |
| BUSHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 145 |
| DUNSEVERICK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 110 |
| GLENANN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 54 |
| ST CIARAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 76 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 7 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GLENARIFF | 216 |
| ST OLCAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 62 |
| ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 491 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 117 |
| STRAIDBILLY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 62 |
2003/04
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ARMOY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 61 |
| BALLYCASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 89 |
| BARNISH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 89 |
| BUNSCOIL AN CHASTIL | 35 |
| BUSHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 138 |
| DUNSEVERICK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 113 |
| GLENANN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 50 |
| ST CIARAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 78 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 4 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GLENARIFF | 205 |
| ST OLCAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 62 |
| ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 473 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 130 |
| STRAIDBILLY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 66 |
2004/05
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ARMOY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 61 |
| BALLYCASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 82 |
| BARNISH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 86 |
| BUNSCOIL AN CHASTIL | 43 |
| BUSHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 131 |
| DUNSEVERICK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 114 |
| GLENANN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 53 |
| ST CIARAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 77 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 3 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GLENARIFF | 211 |
| ST OLCAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 65 |
| ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 441 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 121 |
| STRAIDBILLY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 78 |
2005/06
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ARMOY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 59 |
| BALLYCASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 72 |
| BARNISH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 94 |
| BUNSCOIL AN CHASTIL | 61 |
| BUSHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 118 |
| DUNSEVERICK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 129 |
| GLENANN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 46 |
| ST CIARAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 69 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 4 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GLENARIFF | 208 |
| ST OLCAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 62 |
| ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 447 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 130 |
| STRAIDBILLY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 74 |
2006/07
| School name | Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ARMOY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 57 |
| BALLYCASTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 100 |
| BARNISH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 89 |
| BUNSCOIL AN CHASTIL | 71 |
| BUSHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 120 |
| DUNSEVERICK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 128 |
| GLENANN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 48 |
| ST CIARAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 69 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 4 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GLENARIFF | 208 |
| ST OLCAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 55 |
| ST PATRICK'S & ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 410 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 125 |
| STRAIDBILLY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 78 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
- Figures include children in nursery, reception and Year 1 – Year 7 classes.
Enrolment Numbers
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils on the roll in each of the primary schools in the Ballymena Borough Council area, in (a) 2001/02; (b) 2002/03; (c) 2003/04; (d) 2004/05; (e) 2005/06; and (f) 2006/07.
(AQW 729/08)
Ms Ruane: The information requested is as follows:
Pupils enrolled at primary schools in the Ballymena Borough Council area
2001/02
| School name | Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ALL SAINTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 214 |
| BALLEE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 101 |
| BALLYKEEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 317 |
| BALLYMENA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 334 |
| BRAID PRIMARY SCHOOL | 29 |
| BRAIDSIDE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL | 292 |
| BROUGHSHANE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 325 |
| BUICK MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 351 |
| CAMPHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 337 |
| CARNAGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 104 |
| CARNINY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 275 |
| CLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 105 |
| DUNCLUG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 210 |
| FOURTOWNS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 240 |
| GLENRAVEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 101 |
| GRACEHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 398 |
| HARRYVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 143 |
| HAZELBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 92 |
| KELLS & CONNOR PRIMARY SCHOOL | 203 |
| KIRKINRIOLA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 55 |
| LISNAMURRICAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 37 |
| LONGSTONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 38 |
| MILLQUARTER PRIMARY SCHOOL | 84 |
| MOORFIELDS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 186 |
| PORTGLENONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 179 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, AHOGHILL | 24 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 107 |
| ST LOUIS' CONVENT PRIMARY SCHOOL | 236 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, PORTGLENONE | 218 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 76 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL GLENRAVEL | 83 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL AUGHTERCLONEY | 25 |
| THE DIAMOND PRIMARY SCHOOL | 110 |
| TILDARG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 75 |
2002/03
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ALL SAINTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 218 |
| BALLEE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 103 |
| BALLYKEEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 309 |
| BALLYMENA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 320 |
| BRAID PRIMARY SCHOOL | 33 |
| BRAIDSIDE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL | 317 |
| BROUGHSHANE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 304 |
| BUICK MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 368 |
| CAMPHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 334 |
| CARNAGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 116 |
| CARNINY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 257 |
| CLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 113 |
| DUNCLUG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 207 |
| FOURTOWNS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 252 |
| GLENRAVEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 104 |
| GRACEHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 416 |
| HARRYVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 143 |
| HAZELBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 103 |
| KELLS & CONNOR PRIMARY SCHOOL | 206 |
| KIRKINRIOLA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 59 |
| LISNAMURRICAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 34 |
| LONGSTONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 41 |
| MILLQUARTER PRIMARY SCHOOL | 85 |
| MOORFIELDS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 190 |
| PORTGLENONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 178 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, AHOGHILL | 20 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 106 |
| ST LOUIS' CONVENT PRIMARY SCHOOL | 251 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, PORTGLENONE | 201 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 71 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL GLENRAVEL | 90 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL AUGHTERCLONEY | 23 |
| THE DIAMOND PRIMARY SCHOOL | 108 |
| TILDARG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 78 |
2003/04
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
ALL SAINTS PRIMARY SCHOOL |
220 |
| BALLEE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 88 |
| BALLYKEEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 307 |
| BALLYMENA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 348 |
| BRAID PRIMARY SCHOOL | 27 |
| BRAIDSIDE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL | 338 |
| BROUGHSHANE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 293 |
| BUICK MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 394 |
| CAMPHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 328 |
| CARNAGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 114 |
| CARNINY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 257 |
| CLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 124 |
| DUNCLUG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 164 |
| FOURTOWNS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 258 |
| GLENRAVEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 112 |
| GRACEHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 414 |
| HARRYVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 137 |
| HAZELBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 100 |
| KELLS & CONNOR PRIMARY SCHOOL | 196 |
| KIRKINRIOLA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 63 |
| LISNAMURRICAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 29 |
| LONGSTONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 51 |
| MILLQUARTER PRIMARY SCHOOL | 90 |
| MOORFIELDS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 195 |
| PORTGLENONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 175 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, AHOGHILL | 17 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 106 |
| ST LOUIS' CONVENT PRIMARY SCHOOL | 252 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, PORTGLENONE | 205 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 66 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL GLENRAVEL | 88 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL AUGHTERCLONEY | 23 |
| THE DIAMOND PRIMARY SCHOOL | 111 |
| TILDARG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 71 |
2004/05
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ALL SAINTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 220 |
| BALLEE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 87 |
| BALLYKEEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 309 |
| BALLYMENA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 359 |
| BRAID PRIMARY SCHOOL | 28 |
| BRAIDSIDE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL | 345 |
| BROUGHSHANE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 312 |
| BUICK MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 387 |
| CAMPHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 328 |
| CARNAGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 110 |
| CARNINY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 263 |
| CLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 131 |
| DUNCLUG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 141 |
| FOURTOWNS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 242 |
| GLENRAVEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 117 |
| GRACEHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 434 |
| HARRYVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 133 |
| HAZELBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 91 |
| KELLS & CONNOR PRIMARY SCHOOL | 192 |
| KIRKINRIOLA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 72 |
| LISNAMURRICAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 27 |
| LONGSTONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 60 |
| MILLQUARTER PRIMARY SCHOOL | 103 |
| MOORFIELDS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 198 |
| PORTGLENONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 174 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, AHOGHILL | 24 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 86 |
| ST LOUIS' CONVENT PRIMARY SCHOOL | 266 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, PORTGLENONE | 219 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 53 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL GLENRAVEL | 86 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL AUGHTERCLONEY | 26 |
| THE DIAMOND PRIMARY SCHOOL | 115 |
| TILDARG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 72 |
2005/06
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ALL SAINTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 217 |
| BALLEE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 84 |
| BALLYKEEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 318 |
| BALLYMENA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 363 |
| BRAID PRIMARY SCHOOL | 28 |
| BRAIDSIDE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL | 352 |
| BROUGHSHANE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 296 |
| BUICK MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 389 |
| CAMPHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 325 |
| CARNAGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 108 |
| CARNINY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 252 |
| CLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 139 |
| DUNCLUG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 126 |
| FOURTOWNS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 235 |
| GLENRAVEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 126 |
| GRACEHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 432 |
| HARRYVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 140 |
| HAZELBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 94 |
| KELLS & CONNOR PRIMARY SCHOOL | 187 |
| KIRKINRIOLA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 72 |
| LISNAMURRICAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 31 |
| LONGSTONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 64 |
| MILLQUARTER PRIMARY SCHOOL | 102 |
| MOORFIELDS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 193 |
| PORTGLENONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 162 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, AHOGHILL | 26 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 77 |
| ST LOUIS' CONVENT PRIMARY SCHOOL | 292 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, PORTGLENONE | 200 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 49 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL GLENRAVEL | 86 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL AUGHTERCLONEY | 26 |
| THE DIAMOND PRIMARY SCHOOL | 114 |
2006/07
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| ALL SAINTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 216 |
| BALLEE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 71 |
| BALLYKEEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 322 |
| BALLYMENA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 368 |
| BRAID PRIMARY SCHOOL | 24 |
| BRAIDSIDE INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL | 343 |
| BROUGHSHANE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 321 |
| BUICK MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 382 |
| CAMPHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 322 |
| CARNAGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 109 |
| CARNINY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 252 |
| CLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 140 |
| DUNCLUG PRIMARY SCHOOL | 115 |
| FOURTOWNS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 228 |
| GLENRAVEL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 131 |
| GRACEHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 435 |
| HARRYVILLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 148 |
| HAZELBANK PRIMARY SCHOOL | 105 |
| KELLS & CONNOR PRIMARY SCHOOL | 194 |
| KIRKINRIOLA PRIMARY SCHOOL | 78 |
| LONGSTONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 56 |
| MILLQUARTER PRIMARY SCHOOL | 103 |
| MOORFIELDS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 217 |
| PORTGLENONE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 150 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, AHOGHILL | 17 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 73 |
| ST LOUIS' CONVENT PRIMARY SCHOOL | 284 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BALLYMENA | 45 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, PORTGLENONE | 201 |
| ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL GLENRAVEL | 87 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL AUGHTERCLONEY | 26 |
| THE DIAMOND PRIMARY SCHOOL | 114 |
Note:
Figures include children in nursery, reception and Year 1 – Year 7 classes.
Enrolment Numbers
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils on the roll in each of the primary schools in the Ballymoney Borough Council area, in (a) 2001/02; (b) 2002/03; (c) 2003/04; (d) 2004/05; (e) 2005/06; and (f) 2006/07.
(AQW 730/08)
Ms Ruane: Pupils enrolled at primary schools in the Ballymoney Borough Council area
2001/02
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| BALLYMONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 337 |
| BALNAMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 95 |
| BUSHVALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 109 |
| CARROWREAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 97 |
| CLOUGHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 87 |
| DALRIADA SCHOOL | 145 |
| EDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 72 |
| GARRYDUFF PRIMARY SCHOOL | 61 |
| KILMOYLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 86 |
| KNOCKAHOLLET PRIMARY SCHOOL | 89 |
| LANDHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL | 54 |
| LEANEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 303 |
| LISLAGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 87 |
| RASHARKIN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 56 |
| ST ANNE'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 79 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (BALLYMONEY) | 187 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CLOGH MILLS) | 87 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 249 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (LOUGHGUILE) | 171 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (RASHARKIN) | 247 |
| THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 67 |
2002/03
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| BALLYMONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 307 |
| BALNAMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 93 |
| BUSHVALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 120 |
| CARROWREAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 94 |
| CLOUGHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 93 |
| DALRIADA SCHOOL | 160 |
| EDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 76 |
| GARRYDUFF PRIMARY SCHOOL | 54 |
| KILMOYLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 97 |
| KNOCKAHOLLET PRIMARY SCHOOL | 78 |
| LANDHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL | 52 |
| LEANEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 305 |
| LISLAGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 84 |
| RASHARKIN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 60 |
| ST ANNE'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 81 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (BALLYMONEY) | 187 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CLOGH MILLS) | 88 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 291 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (LOUGHGUILE) | 172 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (RASHARKIN) | 239 |
| THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 71 |
2003/04
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| BALLYMONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 309 |
| BALNAMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 89 |
| BUSHVALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 129 |
| CARROWREAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 98 |
| CLOUGHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 88 |
| DALRIADA SCHOOL | 156 |
| EDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 79 |
| GARRYDUFF PRIMARY SCHOOL | 64 |
| KILMOYLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 103 |
| KNOCKAHOLLET PRIMARY SCHOOL | 76 |
| LANDHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL | 47 |
| LEANEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 302 |
| LISLAGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 86 |
| RASHARKIN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 57 |
| ST ANNE'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 80 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (BALLYMONEY) | 184 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CLOGH MILLS) | 83 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 283 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (LOUGHGUILE) | 178 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (RASHARKIN) | 235 |
| THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 72 |
2004/05
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| BALLYMONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 318 |
| BALNAMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 87 |
| BUSHVALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 142 |
| CARROWREAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 92 |
| CLOUGHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 80 |
| DALRIADA SCHOOL | 151 |
| EDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 81 |
| GARRYDUFF PRIMARY SCHOOL | 62 |
| KILMOYLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 115 |
| KNOCKAHOLLET PRIMARY SCHOOL | 76 |
| LANDHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL | 55 |
| LEANEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 306 |
| LISLAGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 92 |
| RASHARKIN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 59 |
| ST ANNE'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 83 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (BALLYMONEY) | 183 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CLOGH MILLS) | 84 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 284 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (LOUGHGUILE) | 187 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (RASHARKIN) | 224 |
| THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 67 |
2005/06
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| BALLYMONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 316 |
| BALNAMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 87 |
| BUSHVALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 154 |
| CARROWREAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 87 |
| CLOUGHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 75 |
| DALRIADA SCHOOL PREP. DEPT. | 146 |
| EDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 86 |
| GARRYDUFF PRIMARY SCHOOL | 64 |
| KILMOYLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 124 |
| KNOCKAHOLLET PRIMARY SCHOOL | 66 |
| LANDHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL | 61 |
| LEANEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 308 |
| LISLAGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 93 |
| RASHARKIN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 59 |
| ST ANNE'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 76 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (BALLYMONEY) | 188 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CLOGH MILLS) | 86 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PS | 290 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (LOUGHGUILE) | 193 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (RASHARKIN) | 228 |
| THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 65 |
2006/07
School name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
| BALLYMONEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 318 |
| BALNAMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 90 |
| BUSHVALLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 147 |
| CARROWREAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL | 81 |
| CLOUGHMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL | 63 |
| DALRIADA SCHOOL PREP. DEPT. | 147 |
| EDEN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 91 |
| GARRYDUFF PRIMARY SCHOOL | 63 |
| KILMOYLE PRIMARY SCHOOL | 128 |
| KNOCKAHOLLET PRIMARY SCHOOL | 73 |
| LANDHEAD PRIMARY SCHOOL | 55 |
| LEANEY PRIMARY SCHOOL | 306 |
| LISLAGAN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 94 |
| RASHARKIN PRIMARY SCHOOL | 63 |
| ST ANNE'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 73 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (BALLYMONEY) | 194 |
| ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CLOGH MILLS) | 83 |
| ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL | 292 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (RASHARKIN) | 219 |
| ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (LOUGHGUILE) | 194 |
| THE WM PINKERTON MEMORIAL PRIMARY SCHOOL | 73 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
Figures include children in nursery, reception and Year 1 – Year 7 classes.
School Governors
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what is her assessment of the current level of training available to school governors; what plans she has to ensure equality of provision; and to detail how she intends to monitor the quality of such governor training across the sectors.
(AQW 760/08)
Ms Ruane: The governor training services have the potential to bring greater benefits to the local management of schools here. There is scope to promote greater efficiency in financial management through governor training. Also, I favour a more customised approach to training to support the governors of those schools facing particular challenges such as declining enrolments.
The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) has undertaken an assessment of governor training provision and this will be taken into account when the Education and Skills Authority (ESA) determines the future structure of this service and how it will operate. ESA will be accountable to my Department for its services and the ETI will retain the power to inspect this service and its impact on schools of all types.
Teacher Training Courses
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what initiatives she intends to bring forward to encourage more male students to enrol in teacher training courses; and to address the under-representation of male teachers in schools, in particular, primary schools.
(AQW 795/08)
Ms Ruane: In the teaching profession, the gender balance has traditionally favoured women, particularly within the primary school sector. The providers of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) courses have been asked by the Department to draw attention to the under-representation of males within their Access Agreements (particularly in the primary sector) and to review their recruitment procedures. As a result, the Higher Education Institutions have sought to encourage males to apply for ITE courses through a range of actions, including: ensuring that males are well represented in publicity materials for their ITE courses; targeting all male schools and male groups in mixed schools for career talks and presentations;
and, meeting regularly with career teachers and senior staff to seek their help in encouraging males to apply for ITE courses.
Workplace 2010
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Education what discussions she has had with departmental staff based at Rathgael House, in relation to the relocation of jobs under the Workplace 2010 plan.
(AQW 819/08)
Ms Ruane: Departmental staff based in Rathgael House have been regularly updated regarding developments in relation to the possible relocation of jobs under the Workplace 2010 Programme by my officials. The communications have included regular updates via the Departmental e-mail system, Departmental Briefing process, Intranet site and communications from my Permanent Secretary.
Enrolment Numbers
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education to provide the exact enrolment figures of primary years 5, 6 and 7 at (i) Gaelscoil Na Daroige in Derry/Londonderry; (ii) Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach in Crumlin; and (iii) Gaelscoil Éanna in Glengormley.
(AQW 848/08)
Ms Ruane: Gaelscoil Éanna opened in September 2007. Enrolment figures for this school are not yet available.
Neither Gaelscoil Na Daroige nor Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach had children of Year 5, 6 or 7 age in 2006/07. As these schools have only recently opened, they would not normally be expected to have children in primary years 5, 6 and 7.
Enrolment Numbers
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils resident in the Republic of Ireland, but enrolled in schools in Northern Ireland in 2006/07; and 2007/08, broken down by (i) state controlled schools; (ii) Catholic maintained schools; (iii) integrated schools; and (iv) Irish-medium schools.
(AQW 898/08)
Ms Ruane: Information for 2007/08 is not yet available.
Information on the number of children resident in the South of Ireland but attending schools in the North of Ireland is not collected. However, the number
of children attending schools in the North of Ireland who are not domiciled here is as follows:
Non-Domiciled pupils attending schools in Northern Ireland 2006/07
Education and Library Board Area |
Primary |
Post Primary |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belfast | 3 | 134 | 137 |
| Western | 116 | 102 | 218 |
| North Eastern | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| South Eastern | 7 | 1 | 8 |
| Southern | 9 | 83 | 92 |
| Total | 135 | 320 | 455 |
School Management Type |
Primary |
Post Primary |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Controlled schools | 37 | 30 | 67 |
| Catholic maintained schools | 81 | 84 | 165 |
| Integrated schools | 11 | 15 | 26 |
| Irish medium schools | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Other schools | 3 | 191 | 194 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
- Figures include children normally resident in the South of Ireland and Boarders from outside the North of Ireland.
- Figures for primary schools include children in nursery, reception and Year 1 – 7 classes.
Enrolment Numbers
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils resident in the Republic of Ireland, but enrolled in schools in Northern Ireland in 2007/08, broken down by Education and Library Board area.
(AQW 899/08)
Ms Ruane: Information for 2007/08 is not yet available.
Information on the number of children resident in the South of Ireland but attending schools in the North of Ireland is not collected. However, the number
of children attending schools in the North of Ireland who are not domiciled here is as follows:
Non-Domiciled pupils attending schools in Northern Ireland 2006/07
Education and Library Board Area |
Primary |
Post Primary |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belfast | 3 | 134 | 137 |
| Western | 116 | 102 | 218 |
| North Eastern | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| South Eastern | 7 | 1 | 8 |
| Southern | 9 | 83 | 92 |
| Total | 135 | 320 | 455 |
School Management Type |
Primary |
Post Primary |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Controlled schools | 37 | 30 | 67 |
| Catholic maintained schools | 81 | 84 | 165 |
| Integrated schools | 11 | 15 | 26 |
| Irish medium schools | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Other schools | 3 | 191 | 194 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
Enrolment Numbers
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils resident in the Republic of Ireland, but enrolled in schools in Northern Ireland in 2007/08, broken down by (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary sector.
(AQW 900/08)
Ms Ruane: Information for 2007/08 is not yet available.
Information on the number of children resident in the South of Ireland but attending schools in the North of Ireland is not collected. However, the number
of children attending schools in the North of Ireland who are not domiciled here is as follows:
Non-Domiciled pupils attending schools in Northern Ireland 2006/07
Education and Library Board Area |
Primary |
Post Primary |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belfast | 3 | 134 | 137 |
| Western | 116 | 102 | 218 |
| North Eastern | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| South Eastern | 7 | 1 | 8 |
| Southern | 9 | 83 | 92 |
| Total | 135 | 320 | 455 |
School Management Type |
Primary |
Post Primary |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Controlled schools | 37 | 30 | 67 |
| Catholic maintained schools | 81 | 84 | 165 |
| Integrated schools | 11 | 15 | 26 |
| Irish medium schools | 3 | 0 | 3 |
| Other schools | 3 | 191 | 194 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
Primary School Curriculum
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister of Education what advice she has given to primary school principals regarding the curriculum.
(AQO 416/08)
Ms Ruane: I spoke to over 600 primary principals at a special curriculum conference on 24 May. At that conference, I explained that the revised curriculum is about giving our children the best possible education, raising standards in literacy and numeracy and giving teachers back more professional flexibility. All of this is supported by principals.
I told principals that the curriculum is being phased in to give them time to prepare and adjust, and that this new school year, 2007/8, is a transitional year. Transitional means that primary schools are starting to teach the revised curriculum in Years 1 and 5, drawing on their current lesson plans if they wish, and to plan ahead for next year. But we don’t expect everything to be in place yet – the key is that the curriculum is in place by June 2010.
In terms of assessment, transitional means that schools will run the new INCAS assessment in literacy and numeracy this year for Year 5 pupils. However, they don’t have to report the results to parents and the results won’t be centrally collected this year; this first year is about schools getting used to running the assessment. Irish-medium schools will have access to INCAS but have the choice to complete the literacy module or not, given that pupils in these schools will only recently have commenced formal bi-lingual education by the time they are in Year 5. My Department is working with CCEA and CnaG to develop a more appropriate literacy assessment tool. The voice-over for the numeracy module will be provided in Irish.
Furthermore, I encouraged principals to take advantage of the opportunities the curriculum now provides to give more emphasis on areas such as the Arts and PE that play an important part in a child’s holistic development. That is why I am putting primary sports and languages programmes in place from this year to support schools in increasing their provision in these areas.
Transfer Test
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education to outline her current timetable for bringing forward proposals for a replacement schools transfer system for Northern Ireland.
(AQO 405/08)
Ms Ruane: Children transferring from primary to post-primary education in September 2009 will do so under the current arrangements. I am aware of the need to put in place suitable arrangements for children transferring from primary to post-primary education in 2010, and I will be bringing forward proposals as soon as possible. I am mindful of the current uncertainty affecting P5 teachers, pupils and their parents, but rather than impose artificial deadlines, the priority must be to use the time available to make the right decision for the children affected, within a broader view of the shape and nature of post-primary education.
Vetting of Workers
Miss M McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to confirm that all workers who enter the grounds or vicinity of a school, and who are employed as part of a Public Private Partnership/Private Finance Initiative scheme, have been appropriately vetted.
(AQO 468/08)
Ms Ruane: DE Circular 2006/06, "Child Protection: Recruitment of People to Work with Children and Young People In Educational Settings", provides guidance to employers on the groups of staff who should be subject to pre-employment checking. Where Boards or other employing authorities contract out services to the private sector, staff employed by private contractors to provide ancillary services should be subject to pre-employment checking where those staff will be working in educational settings and have regular contact with children and young people.
For example, catering staff who are in the school every day, taxi drivers who provide services to the schools every day and those contractors employed by the Boards, come into contact with children and should be vetted.
Then there are those contractors who are on the school site to carry out major or minor refurbishment work. It is expected that these areas of work will be out of bounds. Children should not be allowed in the areas where builders or service engineers are working for health and safety reasons and these contractors should have no contact with children. There is therefore no reason to have these contractors vetted.
Similarly contractors or sub contractors who visit a school on an ad hoc basis to carry out one off or emergency repairs or service equipment would normally be escorted to and from the location by a member of the school staff. Children should be prevented from being in that area while work progresses. It is not necessary to have these contractors vetted.
The employing authority should at tender stage make it clear to private contractors that pre-employment checks must carried out after a contract is awarded but before any work is undertaken. Where the contractor confirms that this has been done, the employing authority should ask the contractor to provide, in writing, and as part of the contract, the names of each individual working on the contract and confirmation that a clear vetting check has been obtained in respect of each before that individual starts work.
The same requirements apply to contractors engaged under the PFI Pathfinder Projects.
It is an offence for an individual on either the DHSSPS or DE List of persons prohibited from working with children or who are the subject of a disqualification order issued by the courts, to knowingly apply for, offer to do, accept or do any work, paid or unpaid, in a regulated position which gives them access to children. It is an offence for an individual to knowingly employ in a regulated position, offer work in a regulated position to, or procure work in a regulated position for, such a person, or to fail to remove such a person from such work. Anyone convicted of these offences is liable to punishment by imprisonment or fines or both.
Child protection arrangements in education are kept under continuous review and every effort is made to ensure that they are robust. I would like to take this opportunity to remind members that vetting is only one part of the process of keeping children safe. That said, I take any failures to comply with current requirements very seriously (as do my officials) and would ask the Member if she has any specific concerns to raise them with me directly.
Transfer Test
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Education what guidance she is giving teachers of pupils currently in year five, regarding any transfer arrangements likely to apply when these pupils reach year seven.
(AQO 457/08)
Ms Ruane: I am aware of the need to put in place suitable transfer arrangements for children transferring from primary to post-primary education in 2010, and I will be bringing forward proposals as soon as possible. I am mindful of the current uncertainty affecting P5 teachers, pupils and their parents, and guidance will be prepared at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime teachers will be kept informed of any significant developments.
Irish-Medium Schools
Mr F Brolly asked the Minister of Education what discussions officials in her department have held with Irish language education groups, in relation to safeguarding the education of over 3,200 children, currently attending Irish-medium schools.
(AQO 478/08)
Ms Ruane: To ask the Minister of Education what discussions officials in her department have held with Irish language education groups, in relation to safeguarding the education of over 3,200 children, currently attending Irish-medium schools.
Officials within my Department are currently co-ordinating a Review of Irish-medium Education with the aim of ensuring the highest quality education outcomes for all pupils in Irish-medium education.
The Project Board and Advisory Group of the Review of Irish-medium Education contain representation from a wide cross-section of Irish language interests and groups.
My Department agrees, and reviews regularly, an operational plan with Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta which has an overall objective to promote and support the strategic development of, and provide guidance and advice to, the Irish medium sector.
In addition it liaises with Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta on its development plans for the sector.
The Department has engaged POBAL to undertake a research project on the Special Educational Needs of Bilingual Children.
Furthermore, my Department’s officials and members of the ETI have held discussions, on a range of issues relating to Irish-medium Education, with counterparts in the Department of Education and Science in the south.
The Department continues to have regular contact with individual Irish-medium Schools and representatives of the sector on a range of issues relevant to the sector by way of correspondence, telephone calls and ad-hoc discussions at conferences and other meetings.
A-Levels
Mr D Burnside asked the Minister of Education what action she proposes to take in respect of the future of A-levels in Northern Ireland.
(AQO 410/08)
Ms Ruane: A levels will remain important qualifications for post-16 pupils in schools. The revision and re-accreditation of A level specifications has been completed with the new specifications being introduced from September 2008. One change made is to introduce ‘stretch and challenge’ within the A2 units, with more demanding questions. A new A* grade will be introduced to reward the highest achievers in our schools, without changing the current standards for grades A-E. This new grade will be first awarded in 2010.
The member will be aware of changes announced by the Department for Children, Schools and Families in respect of the regulation of all post 14 qualifications in England. This will separate regulation from the responsibility for the development of qualifications. CCEA will remain the regulator for all qualifications here, with the exception of NVQs. With the establishment of ESA in April 2009, we are looking at how best to accommodate the important regulatory role within the new education structures and will certainly be informed by the models that have emerged elsewhere on these islands.
Children From the Travelling Community
Mr G McHugh asked the Minister of Education what steps she is taking to develop teaching arrangements for children from the travelling community.
(AQO 475/08)
Ms Ruane: I recognise the serious difficulties that many children from the Travelling community face in terms of attendance and achievement and the subsequent need for additional support.
Schools are provided with additional Common Funding Formula money, which works out as £943 per Traveller child this year 2007/08. Each school chooses how to spend this money to meet the needs of the children, and may spend it on extra teaching support if that is required. Ear-marked funding to support children from the Travelling community is also allocated to each education and library board. £353k has been allocated for 2007/08. Boards use this funding to supply schools with a variety of Traveller related services, and each board spends part of this funding on extra teaching support.
Classroom Teachers
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what action she has taken in respect of the administrative burden placed on classroom teachers.
(AQO 409/08)
Ms Ruane: I recognise that many classroom teachers are required to perform routine administrative tasks alongside their teaching duties. This is one of a number of issues raised by the Curran Inquiry in its Final Report Part 2.
The Report recommended that a contextualised agreement with features similar to the English agreement on Raising Standards and Tackling Workload should be reached in the North of Ireland by the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee. The Report did not draw any comparisons with arrangements in the South of Ireland, as teachers here have historically enjoyed terms and conditions of service broadly similar to those of their counterparts in England and Wales.
In accepting that measures should be introduced here similar to those introduced in England and Wales to limit teacher workload, including the delegation of routine administrative tasks, the Curran Committee took the view that the English proposals would require adaptation for the North of Ireland and that the timetable for their introduction may vary.
The implementation of the agreement in England and Wales was achieved through a number of strategies, including reform and remodelling of the school workforce (for example, the use of teaching assistants to undertake some teaching-type duties and the employment of additional ancillary staff to relieve teachers of routine administrative tasks). Such strategies were not considered appropriate by the teacher unions here and, as a result, estimates of the cost of implementing the Curran recommendations, at over £80m a year, were based on the assumption that significant numbers of additional teachers would need to be employed.
In the absence of additional resources in the 2004 and 2005 budgets, successive direct rule ministers asked the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee to consider whether any of the key Curran recommendations could be progressed through alternative ways of working. This is currently the subject of ongoing discussion between both sides of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee through its Joint Working Party, although the recommendations in relation to Planning, Preparation and Assessment Time and Teaching Principals’ Time were identified as more pressing priorities than the delegation of routine administrative tasks.
Anti-Social Behaviour
Mr L Cree asked the Minister of Education what action she is taking to identify pupils who are likely to engage, or who are currently engaged, in anti-social behaviour, and to support schools in challenging anti-social behaviour.
(AQO 438/08)
Ms Ruane: Pupils who present with challenging behaviour are identified by their school. Support is available to the school from the relevant Education and Library Board when the school determines that it can no longer manage the pupil within its own resources.
This support can include assistance from staff in the multi-disciplinary Behaviour Support Team, or the Educational Psychology Service, or the Education Welfare Service depending on the nature of the problems identified.
Support within the school environment may not be effective for some children and young people. For some of them, a detailed psychological assessment may point to a more acute underlying emotional disturbance that may warrant a special school placement. For others, there may be a need for a period of short-term specialised provision within, for example a Pupil Referral Unit.
For a small number of pupils, usually in the 14-16 age range, a return to mainstream schooling may not be appropriate and they are, therefore, placed in alternative education provision.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Education what action she is taking to identify and support pupils with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, considering its significant impact on educational attainment.
(AQO 442/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education has in place a special educational needs framework setting out clear statutory duties on schools and Education and Library Boards to identify, assess and in appropriate cases make special educational provision to meet the needs of children with special educational needs. This framework applies to support for all children with special educational needs, including ADHD.
In addition, the Department of Education issued a Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs in 1998 to provide detailed guidance to schools and Boards on the framework and the various statutory duties that apply. A Supplement to this Code was issued in 2005, which updated the previous guidance following the introduction of the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005.
Education and Library Board’s Psychology Services and Behaviour Support Services provide advice to schools in relation to the management of pupils with ADHD, in order that schools can provide the most appropriate support for their pupils. The type of support offered is dependant on the needs of the school or child but can range from advice on writing an Individual Behaviour Plan to placement in a primary or post-primary guidance centre. In more severe cases Boards maintain Statements of Special Educational Need for pupils and provide funding for additional support, such as classroom assistance, to assist the school to meet the pupil’s needs.
School staff can also receive advice and training in behaviour support strategies, appropriate in the support of ADHD pupils. Some Board officers deliver in-service training to individual schools and to classroom assistants.
In 2004 the Department of Education published two information booklets on how best to support children with ADHD, prepared by the Education and Library Boards – one a practical guide for parents and carers and the other a practical guide for schools.
North South Exchange Trust
Mrs M O'Neill asked the Minister of Education to outline the progress made to date on the proposal to establish a North South Exchange Trust, in conjunction with the Department of Education and Science in the Republic of Ireland.
(AQO 474/08)
Ms Ruane: Under the Good Friday Agreement (1998), education is identified as one of the areas suitable for ‘Common Policy, Separate Implementation’ co operation.
In December 1999, the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) agreed a programme of work for co-operation in the Education Sector including school, youth and teacher exchanges. Following discussions with the two Departments, the North South Exchange Consortium (NSEC) was formed, comprising the British Council, Léargas and the Youth Council. At the request of the two Departments, the Consortium developed and presented proposals to both education departments on an outline design and structure for a Joint Delivery Agency. The Departments engaged in discussions with the Consortium in relation to the potential of establishing a ‘Charitable Trust’. This included developing a full economic appraisal and text of a trust deed.
The evolving nature of a delivery agency to manage exchequer funding requires appropriate governance and accountability arrangements to be put in place. The Consortium’s solicitors have advised that changes made to the draft deed (to reflect DE and DES requirements) make it unlikely that the trust would qualify as a charitable body. This has resulted in the preferred option of a charitable trust being untenable for the Consortium members. Officials in both departments have been working to progress this issue, and I have agreed with my Ministerial counterpart in the South to carry out, in tandem with the Department of Education and Science, a formal review of the North South Exchange Consortium initiative. The aim of the review is to identify a range of options for future progress in this area in the light of current and future funding availability.
Both Departments have agreed to proceed with this proposed review and have agreed a Terms of Reference for the review. The two Departments are in the process of appointing suitable people from the North and South of Ireland to comprise the review team.
Educational Village
Mr B McElduff asked the Minister of Education if she will provide an update on plans to develop an educational village at the Lisanelly site in Omagh.
(AQO 472/08)
Ms Ruane: The Department of Education has been liaising with the Department of Finance and Personnel and the Department for Social Development on the possible acquisition of the Lisanelly site from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) . The MoD has been advised of the administration’s interest. The acquisition of the site and its development for educational and other purposes will be subject to the availability of funding and the approval of the Executive.
New Build Programmes
Mr A McQuillan asked the Minister of Education to outline her spending plans for school new build programmes in the Coleraine Borough Council area, in 2007/2008.
(AQO 398/08)
Ms Ruane: Work on the construction of a new school building for Carnalridge P.S. was started in December 2006 and is expected to be completed in December 2007. It is estimated that the capital spend on the project in 2007/08 will be approximately £1.5 million.
Employment and Learning
Small Businesses
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what support, financial and other, his department is making available to encourage small businesses to employ young adults, who are training in a certain vocation.
(AQW 676/08)
The Minister for Employment and Learning (Sir Reg Empey): The Training for Success provision has replaced Jobskills from 3rd September 2007, and offers professional and technical training to young people age 16 – 24 years. The provision has been developed with the needs of both employers and young people in mind, and apprenticeships under this provision are available to all businesses.
All apprentices follow a training framework that is approved for delivery and developed in conjunction with the relevant industry. To maintain both the quality and relevance of content, Sector Skills Councils and Standard Setting Bodies are required to take the views of employers, including small businesses, into consideration when developing the frameworks. Small businesses, therefore, have an ideal opportunity to ensure that their particular skills needs are represented in the professional and technical training that is being provided, and thereby ensure that the young people undergoing training are ideally equipped for employment.
Whilst the programme is demand-led, the Department has budgeted for £50 million to cover all aspects of the programme, which also includes a direct financial incentive for employers to take on apprentices.
Adult Further Education Courses
Mrs M Bradley asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will intervene to reverse recent increases in charges for adult further education courses.
(AQW 677/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Under the current arrangements between the Department and the Further Education sector, it is the responsibility of each individual college, not the Department, to decide what courses it wishes to offer, and what fees, including concessionary fees, it chooses to apply. The Department does not intervene in this process.
Job Ready Candidates
Mr M Storey asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will confirm whether or not his department had decided to pay only the first £3 of travel for 'Job Ready' candidates, before initiating its tender process for 'Job Ready' providers.
(AQW 702/08)
Sir Reg Empey: A standard contribution of £3, £5 or £9 to weekly travel costs is paid to Suppliers for all non-employed participants in the Job-Ready strand of Training for Success. This is based on the Contract Management area in which the Supplier is located.
Details of the proposed arrangements associated with travel costs were set out in the Training for Success: Professional and Technical Training Consultation Document dated July 2006. This was in advance of the tendering process taking place.
University of Ulster, Magee Campus
Mr N McCausland asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what action he will take, in view of the disclosure that just one in five of the students at the University of Ulster's Magee campus is from a Protestant background.
(AQW 704/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The University of Ulster is an autonomous institution responsible for its own policies and practices, including admissions.
The University reports that an Equality Impact Assessment was carried out in 2006 in respect of its Recruitment and Admissions Policy. In relation to the Magee campus, the Assessment noted a range of external contributory factors to the under representation of Protestant students, and that these were largely beyond the control of the University. For example, migration patterns show that Protestant students are substantially more likely to leave and study outside of Northern Ireland.
The University advises that a number of initiatives have been undertaken to redress the religious imbalance at the Magee campus. These include holding meetings with Head Teachers of schools which have a predominantly Protestant student population and which have been identified as providing low numbers of applicants. A number of talks and information days have been organised alongside various marketing activities. The University also intends to hold meetings with influential individuals or community organisations from the Protestant community, in order to encourage applications from pupils in Protestant schools.
Training for Success
Mr C Boylan asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps he will take to ensure that level one trainees on the 'Training for Success' scheme will not be charged course fees, when they have secured an apprenticeship in addition to enrolling on the course.
(AQW 715/08)
Sir Reg Empey: With the exception of travel allowances for apprentices the cost of training under Training for Success is funded by the Department. Job Ready trainees and Level 2 and Level 3 Apprentices are not required to pay enrolment or course fees.
Assistance for Low Income Families
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to provide details of his department's strategy to provide assistance to children from low income families, in order to help them to be able to afford to attend university.
(AQW 751/08)
Sir Reg Empey: My Department has a range of measures in place designed to increase participation in higher education by students from low income backgrounds. In addition to fee loans, which are available to all students, and do not have to be repaid until earnings are over £15,000 per year, less well off students are eligible for a maintenance grant (up to £3,265 in academic year 2007/2008) and bursaries of at least £305 from the institutions. A range of supplementary allowances are available for students with children and/or a disability.
Merged Regional Colleges
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what is his assessment of the level of enrolment in non-vocational classes in the new merged regional colleges; and to indicate whether or not the situation relating to college budgets has played a role in moving these figures away from their former levels.
(AQW 759/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Due to the nature of data capture in colleges, it is too early to have information on the level of college enrolments, including non-vocational enrolments, for the 2007/08 academic year. However, I can assure you that each of the six new colleges received an increase in the recurrent grant paid in the current academic year in comparison to the recurrent grant paid in the 2006/07 academic year.
Non-EU Students
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of students from non-EU countries that are currently studying at universities and further education colleges in Northern Ireland; and to indicate what type of support his department is making available to encourage overseas students to choose higher and further education institutions in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 761/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The latest available data relates to the 2005/06 academic year when there were 1,575 enrolments from non-EU countries at Northern Ireland Higher Education Institutions and 121 students from non-EU countries enrolled at the Northern Ireland Further Education Colleges.
My Department plays its part in encouraging overseas students to study in Northern Ireland in a number of ways including participation in programmes such as the Prime Minister’s Initiative and by providing funding to a number of international programmes including the Mitchell Scholarships and The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Expertise (IAESTE). It continues to work with the British Council on the promotion of Northern Ireland as a study destination and also provides funding for the Overseas Research Student Awards Scheme (ORSAS).
Student Complaints
Mr D McClarty asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what is his assessment of the issue of establishing an independent body for student complaints in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 766/08)
Sir Reg Empey: In my Department’s policy consultation document "A Consultation on Proposals to Introduce Variable Deferred Tuition Fees, Access Agreements and a Review of the Student Complaints System", published in April 2004, consultees were asked whether an independent adjudicator should be established to hear student complaints in Northern Ireland and end the Visitor system in both Northern Ireland universities. The majority of responses were heavily weighted in favour of change to make the system more clearly independent of the universities.
In light of the consultation responses, it was agreed that the option to extend the remit of the Ombudsman, to include the adjudication of student complaints could be considered. The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) agreed that this could be included in their proposed review of the Offices of the Ombudsman for Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Commissioner for Complaints, following restoration of the Assembly.
OFMDFM has advised my Department that a timetable for consultation, implementation and amendments to the Commissioner for Complaints Order 1996 has yet to be set following restoration of the Assembly. When the review is carried out, the option to extend the Ombudsman’s remit, to include the adjudication of student complaints, can be considered.
Northern Ireland Students Studying in the Republic of Ireland
Mr D McClarty asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what plans he has to change the funding package for those students domiciled in Northern Ireland, who choose to take up tertiary education in the Republic of Ireland.
(AQW 767/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Northern Ireland domiciled students studying at institutions of higher education in the Republic of Ireland are currently eligible for means-tested maintenance grants, maintenance loans and a non-means tested grant which covers the full amount of the registration fee charged by institutions. In light of the introduction of fee deferral arrangements and an enhanced student support package for students from Northern Ireland studying in the United Kingdom from 2006/2007, I am considering introducing similar arrangements for domiciled Northern Ireland students who study in the Republic of Ireland.
Student Financial Support
Mr D McClarty asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what plans he has to change the current financial support package for students, specifically in relation to the upper threshold at which students can obtain the maximum maintenance grant.
(AQW 768/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Following the recent announcement by the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) regarding proposals to increase the maintenance grant threshold for English domiciled students, officials have been engaging with counterparts in DIUS and other regions of the UK to consider the implications for Northern Ireland. Any decision to change the current student finance package will have to be taken in the context of the current spending review.
Further Education College, Lisburn
Mr J Craig asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will give an assurance that the new further education college in Lisburn will proceed, and to provide a revised timescale for the completion of this project.
(AQO 397/08)
Sir Reg Empey: I am happy to inform the Assembly that contract negotiations with the East Down and Lisburn Education Partnership, who are the preferred bidder, are nearing completion and contract signing should be achieved later this year. All planning approvals have been obtained and construction can begin immediately the contract has been signed. It is anticipated that the college will be ready for occupation in 2010.
Student Enrolments
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what action he is taking to reduce the number of Northern Ireland domiciled students enrolling on higher education courses in other parts of the United Kingdom.
(AQO 412/08)
Sir Reg Empey: During the 2005/06 academic year, 25% of Northern Ireland domiciled students studied at GB institutions compared to 30% in 1995/96. Students obviously have a free choice of where they wish to study. My Department is currently conducting research to get a clearer picture of all the reasons why students choose to study outside Northern Ireland.
Economic Inactivity
Dr S Farry asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will give his assessment of the variation in levels of economic inactivity in different areas in Northern Ireland.
(AQO 462/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Economic Inactivity is an issue of particular concern for Northern Ireland. Our rate of 27.8% compares unfavourably with the UK average of 21.1%.
The inactivity rate within Northern Ireland varies from 14.6% in the Larne District Council area to 43.8% in the Strabane District Council area. The differences are mainly due to the variations in the proportions of people who are inactive because of their home or family commitments, sickness or disability.
Migrant Workers
Mr G McHugh asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps he is taking to reduce the exploitation of migrant workers by employers.
(AQO 485/08)
Sir Reg Empey: It remains a priority for my Department to ensure we have a modern and effective employment rights infrastructure that affords suitable protection for everyone, including migrant workers, working legally in Northern Ireland. My Department is leading work by state and non-state organisations to ensure that the needs of migrant workers are met effectively.
Industrial Tribunals
Mr J McCallister asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of cases that were brought to Industrial Tribunals, in each of the last five years.
(AQO 434/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Claims registered with the Office of Industrial Tribunals and Fair Employment Tribunal (OITFET) in the last five years, which include both Industrial Tribunal and Fair Employment Tribunal issues, are as follows:
April 2002 – March 2003 - 3386
April 2003 – March 2004 - 9981
April 2004 – March 2005 - 3452
April 2005 – March 2006 - 1681
April 2006 – March 2007 - 2788
Total - 21,288
As a result of procedures in place within the Tribunal system such as interim hearings, pre-hearing reviews and case management discussions; the multiple nature of some of the cases where a common complaint is brought by a group of claimants against one respondent and the use of the conciliation services of the Labour Relations Agency, it is estimated that some 85%-90% of these registered claims do not get to the stage of a full Tribunal hearing. This means that over the last five years approximately 2,100-3,200 cases proceed to a full Tribunal hearing.
Over the same period OITFET has heard and determined some 3,440 cases.
Budget Negotiations
Mr T Burns asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what progress has been achieved in budget negotiations with the Department of Finance and Personnel, in relation to his bid for a 1000% increase in funding for adult apprenticeships and a 500% increase in funding for PhDs and higher educational research.
(AQO 471/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The Budget 2007 process is still on-going and it is not expected to be finalised until late January 2008. Therefore I can not comment on any individual bids at this time.
Apprenticeship Scheme
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of people within the Strangford area who have progressed through the apprenticeship scheme in each of the last three years; and what action he is taking to increase these numbers.
(AQO 437/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The numbers of apprentices from the Strangford area who have progressed to achievement of the NVQ level 3, under the Modern Apprenticeships strand of Jobskills are:
2004/05 – 25
2005/06 – 60
2006/07 – 50
In September 2007 the Department replaced Jobskills with Training for Success, with a key aim to increase the number of apprentices including a level 2 apprenticeship. Early indications are that significant numbers of young people are being recruited to these level 2 apprenticeships. It is expected that a combination of improved careers guidance, individual assessments of participants, better quality of provision, and restructured funding frameworks will encourage improved retention, completion and achievement rates.
New Deal
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what action he is taking to improve the success rate of New Deal in moving participants into sustained, unsubsidised employment.
(AQO 466/08)
Sir Reg Empey: My Department is currently piloting, in four office areas, (Shaftesbury Square, Knockbreda, Lisburn and Limavady) a fresh approach to the delivery of New Deal aimed at improving outcomes into sustained, unsubsidised employment. This initiative, branded ‘Steps to Work’ is a flexible, menu-based modular approach, which can be tailored to address each individual’s barriers to work. It also includes increased incentives to employers to recruit and retain New Deal participants. Subject to evaluation and resource availability, it will be rolled out across Northern Ireland.
Press Officers
Mr A Ross asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of press officers in his department.
(AQO 429/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The Department for Employment and Learning has three press officers who work directly with the media on a regular basis. The Department also has Information Officers who occasionally work with the media but primarily perform a marketing function.
National Tourism and Hospitality Skills Academy
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what consideration he has given to the creation of a National Tourism and Hospitality Skills Academy for Northern Ireland.
(AQO 415/08)
Sir Reg Empey: I have no plans to create a National Tourism and Hospitality Skills Academy for Northern Ireland.
Training in skills at all levels is available for the sector through Further Education Colleges throughout Northern Ireland where the Southern Regional College is a Centre of Excellence. Extensive provision is also available in Higher Education and the University of Ulster which will soon have a new facility at York Street, Belfast.
Adult Learning
Mr M Brady asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps he has taken to encourage adult learners to return to courses.
(AQO 482/08)
Sir Reg Empey: My Department has a number of measures that are designed to encourage adult learners to return to courses at a wide variety of levels.
The courses that are available to adults include: full-time and part time courses in higher and further education establishments; Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeship training (offered through Training for Success) in a wide range of occupational areas for those aged up to 24 years; and courses to improve adults’ literacy and numeracy skills.
In delivering its programmes, the Department continues to develop ways of increasing access, with a particular focus on those who are reluctant to avail of the opportunities provided.
The Department’s Careers Service offers an all-age careers information, advice and guidance service. In addition, the Department currently provides funding to the Educational Guidance Service for Adults to provide guidance and to help adults connect with Learning. The Department's Employment Service engages with a wide range of clients, both active and inactive in the labour market, through a team of specially trained Personal Advisers. These advisory services ensure that individuals are made aware of those opportunities that meet their particular needs and aspirations.
All-Island Skills Conference
Mr J Spratt asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail what discussions he had with Ministers from the Republic of Ireland, at their meeting on 4th September 2007.
(AQO 411/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Discussions with Ministerial counterparts focussed on common issues such as workforce skills, the impact of the inflow of migrant workers, research and innovation. These are all important to our economies in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Looking to build on existing examples of co-operation we will co-host an all-island skills conference in NI in 2008.
Concessionary Fees Scheme
Mr K McCarthy asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will give his assessment of the success of the concessionary fees scheme in the further education sector.
(AQO 458/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Under the current arrangements between the Department and the further education sector, it is the responsibility of individual colleges, not the Department, to decide what courses they wish to offer, and what fees, charges and concessionary fees they chooses to apply.
Holyland Area
Ms A Lo asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps he is taking to encourage better relations between students and local residents in the Holyland area of Belfast.
(AQO 461/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The Department supports fully the two universities in the initiatives they have taken to encourage better relations between students and local residents. Both institutions have been working in partnership with landlords, political representatives, Belfast City Council, the Housing Executive and the PSNI.
The seriousness with which this is being treated is illustrated by the fact that in the academic year 06/07, sixteen students were formally expelled from Queen’s University, with two students being formally expelled from the University of Ulster. This action was as a direct consequence of anti-social behaviour off campus.
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Invest NI
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, given the importance of Enterprise Parks to the local economy, to indicate how Invest NI intends to facilitate the small business sector in Newtownabbey in 'growing on' these initial start-up businesses, through the provision of premises at Global Point.
(AQW 618/08)
The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Mr Dodds): Invest NI is awaiting a decision concerning overall planning permission for the Global Point site. Subject to completion of the statutory consultation process, it is expected that Planning Service will take its recommendation to Newtownabbey Council before the end of the calendar year. Invest NI, has already gained planning permission for specific aspects of the site and has developed significant infrastructure within the park at a cost of £7m.
Serviced sites on the park will be marketed, as soon as overall planning approval is granted, to all Invest NI clients that have the potential to bring forward development projects that meet Invest NI’s Intervention Principles. This will include those clients located in Newtownabbey and its surrounding area.
Projects attractive to Invest NI are likely to comprise a number of the following characteristics:
- a focus on markets outside Northern Ireland
- innovation or the use of advanced technologies
- new, value-added products or services
- increased and quality employment
- new skills
- challenging growth targets
- private sector finance
Invest NI has limited financial resources and therefore seeks to generate the best return on its investments for the Northern Ireland economy. To that end, Invest NI's client companies must be engaged in either manufacturing or tradeable services and must have, or demonstrate the potential to achieve:
- annual sales in excess of £100,000
- sales outside NI of at least 25% of turnover or £250,000
Invest NI has a relatively small land bank across Northern Ireland. This land is, therefore, held exclusively for Invest NI client companies, who collectively account for approximately 90% of NI exports and research and development expenditure.
Invest NI
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans Invest NI has to develop the lands at Global Point, Newtownabbey; and what is his assessment of whether or not the expanding small business sector based in Enterprise Parks could provide an anchor tenant role at this location.
(AQW 623/08)
Mr Dodds: After extensive discussions with Planning Service addressing a number of outstanding issues, Invest NI is awaiting a decision concerning overall planning permissions for the site at Global Point. Subject to completion of the statutory consultation process, it is expected that the application will be taken to Council before the end of the calendar year.
Over the last number of years, Invest NI has gained planning permission and developed several phases of infrastructure within the park at a cost of circa £7m. It expects to be in a position to market and lease serviced sites to client companies as soon as overall planning approval is granted.
Invest NI land at Global Point is held exclusively for its client companies with an approved business case and a demonstrable immediate property need. Any business case presented by an Enterprise Park provider, for example Mallusk Enterprise Park, would be considered on its merits. Tenants would be expected to be able to meet the normal Invest NI client criteria for entry.
Tourism
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what funding will be made available in 2008 to promote tourism in West Tyrone, and what role Sperrins Tourism will play in developing tourism within West Tyrone.
(AQW 650/08)
Mr Dodds: The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is fully committed to regional development as outlined in the Strategic Framework for Action (2005 – 2008). West Tyrone and Sperrins Tourism is a member of the Western Regional Tourism Partnership, which has received over £403,000 in financial support from NITB in the financial years 2006/07 and 2007/08.
Any further allocation will be considered in the context of the Comprehensive Spending Review.
Motorcycle Races
Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is his assessment of the impact of attendance at motorcycle races on Northern Ireland's economy and tourist industry.
(AQW 666/08)
Mr Dodds: The Tourism Strategic Framework for Action 2004 – 2008 recognises the potential of events in changing perceptions of Northern Ireland and benefiting the economy and the Northern Ireland tourism industry. The Northern Ireland Tourist Board works closely with the Northern Ireland Events Company (NIEC) to promote and support excellent events in Northern Ireland.
The Northern Ireland Events Company has been involved with many disciplines of motorcycle sport since its inception in 1997. Many of these World Class and International events bring extensive TV coverage allowing NIEC to profile NI as a Major Events and Tourism destination.
A post project evaluation (PPE) report was completed by NIEC for the North West 200 (NW200) and Ulster Grand Prix (UGP) in 2005. The evaluation figures are as follows:
Event: |
Participant and Visitor Spend:(£) |
Economic Benefit to NI:(£) |
Economic Return(Per £ of public money) |
|---|---|---|---|
| NW200 | £554,400 | £1,850,142.89 | £15.33:£1 |
| UGP | £132,510 | £444,892.78 | £6.50:£1 |
| Total: | £686,910 | £2,295,035.67 | n/a |
2008 will see the FIM Motocross of Nations – the largest event in the sport – take place in Moneyglass.
Invest NI
Mr M McLaughlin asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, in light of his statement to the 12th annual economic conference that his vision 'is for a higher value-added economy that is able to compete effectively with a globalised workforce', what is his assessment of the advice of the chairman of the Ulster Bank Group, that Invest NI should amalgamate with the Industrial Development Agency Ireland, to promote an all-island economy through a single, joined-up, effective agency; with the IDA and Invest NI no longer competitors, but fully collaborative.
(AQW 683/08)
Mr Dodds: Our vision of a higher value added, competitive economy is shared with most stakeholder organisations and economic pundits in Northern Ireland. Invest NI, and a wide range of other public and private sector organisations in Northern Ireland, are committed to this approach. Recent Invest NI successes, including major investments by Citi, Liberty IT, Bank of Ireland and Mformation, bear testimony to this approach. While we enjoy cooperation with our southern counterparts on a number of fronts, I am clear that the competitive nature of procuring FDI and significant differences in our product offering, make a single operation, straddling two jurisdictions, impossible.
University of Ulster Patents
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what steps he will take to build local enterprises within the East Antrim constituency, based on patents held by the University of Ulster.
(AQW 711/08)
Mr Dodds: Invest NI (through the Higher Education Innovation Fund) has already supported the development of a commercially focused organisation to effectively manage University of Ulster technology (UUTech) and knowledge transfer Early stage technology screening, assessment and protection have led to a number of new patent filings. In addition, Invest NI’s "Proof of Concept" programme will help researchers take their ideas and inventions from the laboratory to the global marketplace while new seed corn funds, dedicated to spin-outs from both Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and the University of Ulster (UU), are in the latter stages of development.
Technology based companies spinning out from the UU might be expected to establish in close proximity to specific research strengths and appropriately skilled and qualified graduates that are essential for continued growth and development.
Fast Ferry Linkages
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what steps he has taken to develop fast ferry linkages between the Port of Larne and the Lancashire ports.
(AQW 713/08)
Mr Dodds: Northern Ireland benefits from the private sector ferry services operating in the Irish Sea. These provide conventional ferry connections to Fleetwood, Heysham and Liverpool in Lancashire. A fast ferry service, which operated to Heysham, ceased in 2002 for commercial reasons.
The development of any ferry service is a matter for the commercial judgement of ferry operators having regard to prevailing market opportunities.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the estimated cost for final closure on the DETI-led visitors' centre at the Giant's Causeway, if the proposals do not go ahead.
(AQW 740/08)
Mr Dodds: The outstanding costs for the public sector proposal relate to contractual liabilities to the architect and the design team and are estimated at around £300,000. This would bring the total estimated cost for the project, if it does not go ahead, to £1.5m.
Health and Safety Requirements
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans he has to develop a strategy to help small construction businesses meet the costs of all health and safety requirements, in order to operate legally and safely in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 741/08)
Mr Dodds: There are no plans to develop a strategy to help small construction businesses meet the costs of all health and safety requirements. Government cannot and should not financially assist any business to meet its statutory health and safety obligations. That said, Government should actively assist businesses in other ways to help them meet these obligations and, in regard to health and safety, this is very much the case. Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), the regional authority for health and safety, visits building sites and offers advice and information; it publishes free guidance; it provides a free phone help line and its small business service, Health and Safety Works NI, provides a confidential and free mentoring service to small businesses including small construction companies.
Small Construction Firms
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans he has to support business growth for small construction firms in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 742/08)
Mr Dodds: Invest NI helps small construction manufacturing companies to grow, become more competitive and develop export markets.
Invest NI focus on helping companies to be entrepreneurial; innovative and international. Emphasis is on increasing the company’s ability to grow export markets and to compete in a sustainable way.
Invest NI liaise with sector bodies and trade associations to ensure clients are kept up to date on market trends and tendering opportunities via procurement databases. Strategic investment plans, such as Strategic Investment Board (NI), National Development Plan (ROI), and Olympics (London), leading to sales opportunities are communicated. Best practice and knowledge sharing is actively promoted.
Support and guidance includes:
- Facilitating development of business direction and strategy
- Enhancing competitiveness with people and process improvement
- Developing export markets and products, with awareness workshops and programmes to define marketing strategies, strengthen marketing and export skills and increase market knowledge
- Stimulating innovation through technology transfer, and product & process development
An on-line business support service is available to all companies at
http://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk offering practical advice on a comprehensive range of business issues.
Invest NI
Mr D McClarty asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of visits that have been organised by Invest NI for inward investors for the East Derry/Londonderry area, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 769/08)
Mr Dodds: Invest NI does not determine locations for a potential investor: this decision is taken by the investor. The focus of Invest NI’s international sales and marketing effort is to aggressively promote all areas of Northern Ireland as attractive and viable locations for new inward investment opportunities, in what is a very competitive global market.
The figures below outline the number of visits that have been organised by Invest NI for inward investors for the East Londonderry area, in each of the last five years
April 2002 – March 2003 9
April 2003 – March 2004 2
April 2004 – March 2005 1
April 2005 – March 2006 2
April 2006 – March 2007 3
Staff Team Building
Mr S Moutray asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the total cost of (i) staff away days; and (ii) staff team building exercises, in each of the last three years.
(AQW 807/08)
Mr Dodds:
|
Away Days |
Team Building |
Total |
|
|---|---|---|---|
1 April 04 to 31 March 05 |
£9,769 |
£4,381 |
£14,150 |
1 April 05 to 31 March 06 |
£5,333 |
£4,432 |
£9,765 |
1 April 06 to 31 March 07 |
£0 |
£2,789 |
£2,789 |
DETI total |
£26,704 |
||
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr S Neeson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail how good relations considerations have been taken into account within his department's bid, in relation to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 830/08)
Mr Dodds:
A High Level Impact Assessment (HLIA) was completed for all Resource bids in the Comprehensive Spending Review. The HLIA considered how and to what extent each Resource bid promoted good relations between people of different race, religion, political opinion, sexual orientation and persons with a disability and persons without. It also examined if funding the Resource bid could inadvertently inhibit or damage good relations between groups within any of the above mentioned categories. Each HLIA was also considered by the DETI Equality Unit.
A summary of these HLIAs was also forwarded to the Department of Finance and Personnel for its consideration when making recommendations on allocations across the NI Block.
The Strategic Investment Board is considering the good relations impact of Capital Investment.
Greater Newry Vision
Mr M Brady asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans he has to implement the Greater Newry Vision document.
(AQW 875/08)
Mr Dodds: We would wish to support the efforts of the Greater Newry Vision Partnership to enable the greater Newry area to achieve its full potential in terms of;
- An efficient economy
- Regional well-being
- Social political and economic stability and
- Economic opportunity
A range of initiatives, including substantial infrastructural developments, have been identified by the partnership as key drivers to an efficient economy in the Greater Newry area. These include for example; The Southern Relief Road and the Albert Basin Development. While such infrastructural development proposals are outside the direct remit of my department we will contribute to the appraisals of such initiatives by the relevant departments insofar as they impact on the economic development prospects of the area.
Invest NI, which has representation on the Greater Newry Vision Partnership, will continue to play a central role in delivering our economic development strategy by providing support to businesses in three main areas;
- Supporting Innovation for global markets
- Encouraging investment and re-investment in the area
- Stimulating entrepreneurial activity
Considerable success has been achieved to date in the Newry area as demonstrated by the relatively high level of business starts and the recent launch of the Teleperformance project that will create 450 jobs.
Invest NI
Mr P Doherty asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail, by name and size, all land within the Strabane District Council area that is currently (i) under the ownership of Invest NI; and (ii) available for industrial use.
(AQW 881/08)
Mr Dodds: Invest NI holds land at one location in the Strabane District Council area, Orchard Road Industrial Estate.
The landholding at Orchard Road is 25.26 acres with 2.10 acres currently available for industrial use.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the nature and outcome of his department's examination of the planning application from Seaport Investments for a visitors' centre at the Giant's Causeway, prior to 10 September 2007, with specific reference to whether or not this development would provide a world class facility at this location.
(AQW 892/08)
Mr Dodds: My Department reviewed the Seaport Investments outline planning application as part of its work on developing its own design. On the basis of the information contained within the planning application it was considered reasonable to assume that visitors would receive a similar experience to that proposed in the public proposal.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if he will now test the market to assess whether or not other private sector businesses are interested in becoming involved in the creation of a visitors' centre at the Giant's Causeway.
(AQW 897/08)
Mr Dodds: My Department does not own land at the Giant’s Causeway site. It is therefore not appropriate for me to test the market place for private sector interest in developing visitor facilities. That is a matter for Moyle District Council, as land owners, to consider.
Graduate Earnings
Mr J Spratt asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the average wage earned by graduates in Northern Ireland; and to provide a comparison with graduate earnings in (i) other parts of the United Kingdom; and (ii) the Republic of Ireland, for each of the last 5 years.
(AQW 940/08)
Mr Dodds: The estimates for the median average wage earned by graduate employees in Northern Ireland and other parts of the United Kingdom can be found in the table below. Directly comparable figures for the Republic of Ireland are not available.
Median gross weekly pay for Graduate Employees, 2003-20071
Region |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| England | £519 | £516 | £538 | £577 | £577 |
| Scotland | £490 | £531 | £490 | £525 | £538 |
| Wales | £485 | £462 | £433 | £462 | £512 |
| Northern Ireland | £415 | £490 | £471 | £462 | £529 |
| UK | £508 | £508 | £531 | £558 | £565 |
1 Figures refer to the March–May period for the years 2003–2005 and to the April–June period for 2006 and 2007. Estimates are based on a sample survey and are subject to sampling error.
Source: Labour Force Survey
Opportunities For Women
Ms C Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action he has taken to ensure the full participation of women, and increased opportunity for women, in the enterprise, trade and investment sector.
(AQW 1020/08)
Mr Dodds: OFMDFM have co-ordinated actions across NI Departments in response to the report Shaping a Fairer Future published in February 2006 by the Women and Work Commission Report.
These include actions to support full and equal opportunity for, and participation by women in the enterprise, trade and investment sector, and are being mapped into the draft Action Plans which will underpin the Gender Equality Strategy for Northern Ireland published in December 2006 by OFMDFM. In addition we have in place a robust framework of anti-discrimination legislation which aims to ensure greater participation of women in the labour market, including in the enterprise, trade and investment sector.
Invest Northern Ireland’s Go For It Campaign, its enterprise and education programmes and its specific Investing in Women Programme seek to encourage more women in Northern Ireland to start a business or grow their existing business.
Investing in Women involves a range of awareness programmes, role model promotion and sponsorship of conferences and events. Over 4000 women per year are engaged in the Investing in Women programmes with 16000 young women involved in enterprise and education programmes. An element of Invest NI’s work within the Renewing Communities initiative is providing enterprise awareness for women. This includes activity with women’s groups in North Belfast.
With this focussed approach to increasing the levels of female entrepreneurship, over the period 2002 – 2007, the number of female start-ups via Invest NI’s Start a Business Programme has increased from 35% to 47%. This is an encouraging increase.
Inward Investment
Mr D Ford asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if he will make a statement on the impact of paramilitarism on inward investment in Northern Ireland.
(AQO 452/08)
Mr Dodds: There has been no formal assessment of the impact of paramilitarism on inward investment in Northern Ireland. However, I would be very surprised if the images of terrorism and vandalism that have played across the media in the last three decades have not had a negative influence on the decisions of potential investors – to the extent that they ruled us out of their thinking without making any contact with Invest NI or its predecessors.
It is therefore to the credit of government agencies that they were able to attract a number of significant international companies to the region. Terrorism has a pernicious impact on business investment and we must do everything we can to maintain a stable political and social environment so that we can more easily market Northern Ireland as a high quality investment and tourism location.
As I said in my answer to the Member for Strangford, I would encourage any business that is the victim of paramilitary activity to come forward and contact the police or the Organised Crime Task Force.
United States Investment Conference
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to provide an update on his plans for the proposed United States Investment Conference; and to detail what he hopes to achieve from this event.
(AQO 414/08)
Mr Dodds: Planning for this event is well advanced. This afternoon I am welcoming US Ambassadors Tuttle from London and Foley from Dublin. They are jointly leading a delegation of over 20 US companies to Northern Ireland.
Next month I plan to visit three or four cities in the United States to meet with US Business and Political figures to raise the profile of next year’s conference. I hope that up to 50 CEOs, from major US Corporations in the key ICT, Financial and Business Services sectors, will participate in the conference in Belfast next year.
We want them to experience and explore how Northern Ireland can provide compelling business solutions to their global operations. Ultimately, my hope would be that some of these companies will decide that Northern Ireland offers them a location where they can establish a successful and sustainable operation.
Single Electricity Market
Mr S Moutray asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if he will make a statement on the Single Electricity Market.
(AQO 428/08)
Mr Dodds: Final preparations are being made by industry and the Regulators so that the Single Electricity Market can begin trading wholesale electricity from 1 November. This new market will be at the leading edge of the European Union’s strategic vision for energy. It is the result of pragmatic cooperation to deliver mutual benefits to both Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic.
The overall net benefit is estimated at £103m over 10 years from greater efficiencies, plus potential additional "dynamic" benefits of £135m - £171m from more competitive wholesale and retail markets. However, these benefits will depend on the sustained and progressive introduction of greater competition. My Department will be working with its counterpart in the Irish Republic and with the Regulators to achieve this.
Fast Ferry Service
Rev Dr R Coulter asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what action he is taking, along with the Minister for Regional Development, to develop a fast ferry service accessing the 43 million people who live within a four hour drive of ports in Lancashire.
(AQO 418/08)
Mr Dodds: Northern Ireland benefits from the private sector ferry services operating in the Irish Sea. These provide conventional ferry connections to Fleetwood, Heysham and Liverpool in Lancashire. A fast ferry service, which operated to Heysham, ceased in 2002 for commercial reasons.
The development of any ferry service is a matter for the commercial judgement of ferry operators having regard to prevailing market opportunities.
Financial Services Sector
Mr R Newton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline the current prospects for employment within the financial services sector in Northern Ireland.
(AQO 490/08)
Mr Dodds: This is a growing sector where the prospects of providing significant new employment opportunities for Northern Ireland are good. Invest NI will continue to target key accounts in Europe and the United States, in order to build on recent successes.
During 2007, Invest NI secured employment in this sector through strategic investments by two high profile financial institutions. Citi, one of the world’s largest financial corporations, has established a Centre of Excellence in Belfast creating 716 jobs. This facility includes 117 jobs in capital markets and banking operations as well as 39 jobs in the legal and compliance field. These jobs attract average salaries of around £25k, well in excess of Northern Ireland’s private sector average. In July 2007, Bank of Ireland Securities Services announced its intention to create 149 jobs establishing its first UK hedge fund administration centre. These jobs will attract average salaries of £35k per annum and the investment will enhance Northern Ireland’s reputation as a global financial services location.
West Belfast and Shankill Economic Task Force Report
Mr G Adams asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if he will report on progress towards implementing the recommendations of the West Belfast and Shankill Economic Task Force Report.
(AQO 491/08)
Mr Dodds: Action has been taken to address a range of issues identified in the West Belfast and Greater Shankill Task Forces’ Report. A bid to the Integrated Development Fund secured funding, in principle, of £21.7 million towards 17 projects specific to the area. As part of a recent study of the Task Force Initiative, local community representatives submitted a report outlining their views on the key outstanding development opportunities for the area in January 2007. DETI, and other relevant Departments, are in the process of discussing the most recent report with community representatives with a view to agreeing detailed actions which can be taken forward as quickly as is practicable.
Invest NI
Mr M McLaughlin asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail what policy he intends to pursue, to allow increased co-ordination between the work of the inward investment agencies, Invest NI and the Industrial Development Agency Ireland.
(AQO 489/08)
Mr Dodds: The Comprehensive Study on the All-Island Economy, published by the British and Irish Governments in October 2006, identified opportunities for increased contacts between Invest NI and IDA Ireland. However, the attraction of Foreign Direct Investment is one of the areas where the economic development agencies in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are in direct competition with each other. Nevertheless, it is clear that the island as a whole faces increasing competition from emerging economies for mobile inward investment. The Boards and officials of Invest NI and the IDA already meet regularly and I am keen that they should continue to meet to explore the potential for collaboration in areas of mutual benefit for both jurisdictions.
Both agencies agree that the focus for collaboration should be on strengthening the business operating environment and the examination of how Invest NI and IDA can work together to jointly influence and improve this in a manner that would increase the attractiveness of the whole island for FDI.
Investment Conference
Rt Hon Mr J Donaldson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what progress has been made on arrangements for the proposed investment conference in Washington D.C.
(AQO 396/08)
Mr Dodds: Planning for this event is well advanced. This afternoon I am welcoming US Ambassadors Tuttle from London and Foley from Dublin. They are jointly leading a delegation of over 20 US companies to Northern Ireland.
Next month I plan to visit three or four cities in the United States to meet with US Business and Political figures to raise the profile of next year’s conference. I hope that up to 50 CEOs, from major US Corporations in the key ICT, Financial and Business Services sectors, will participate in the conference in Belfast next year.
We want them to experience and explore how Northern Ireland can provide compelling business solutions to their global operations. Ultimately, my hope would be that some of these companies will decide that Northern Ireland offers them a location where they can establish a successful and sustainable operation.
Racketeering
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to give his assessment of the cost to Northern Ireland businesses of racketeering associated with paramilitaries.
(AQO 453/08)
Mr Dodds: My Department has made no assessment of the financial cost to Northern Ireland businesses of the wide range of racketeering activities associated with paramilitaries. It is clear, however, that businesses can only realise their full economic potential in a peaceful and law abiding environment.
A number of Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF) events were held for the business community during 2006/07 to raise awareness of the help and support that is available for victims of extortion and to encourage victims to report the crime to the police.
The PSNI, supported by the OCTF, have launched an extortion Helpline (028 909 222 67). This provides access to professional advice and guidance from specially trained PSNI officers who are experts in this field. I would encourage any business that is the victim of extortion to contact the PSNI’s extortion helpline.
Tourism
Mr D Kennedy asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what plans he has to develop tourist potential across the whole of Northern Ireland, rather than in only a small number of high profile locations.
(AQO 423/08)
Mr Dodds: The Tourism Strategic Framework for Action 2004 – 2008 (SFA) currently sets out ten key programme areas to be addressed in developing Northern Ireland’s tourism potential, it is directed at all of Northern Ireland.
Programmes include development of signature projects, visitor servicing, strengthening effective relationships for delivery and focusing on Winning Themes such as short breaks, excellent events and activity tourism. These programmes, taken as a whole, are not confined to a small number of locations.
Health and Safety Executive
Mr W Irwin asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of people who are employed by the Health and Safety Executive in Northern Ireland, and to outline their main priorities.
(AQO 433/08)
Mr Dodds: The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) has a staff complement of 96, of which 6 posts are currently vacant. HSENI focuses on a number of priority issues, which are responsible for a disproportionately high number of cases of ill health and injury. These include manual handling and repetitive work; work-related stress; exposure to asbestos fibres; falls from height; transport in the workplace; and slips and trips. In addition to these priority issues, HSENI also focuses attention on the high risk work sectors of construction, quarrying and agriculture.
Tourist Accomodation
Mr P Maskey asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the amount spent on hotel and tourist accommodation by Invest NI and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, in the last year.
(AQO 487/08)
Mr Dodds: In April 2002 the responsibility for the administration of the Capital Investment Programme for tourism accommodation development moved from the Northern Ireland Tourist Board to Invest Northern Ireland (Invest NI).
In the financial year ending 31 March 2007 Invest NI paid £3,090,331.96 towards tourist accommodation projects of which £2,676,532.88 was for hotels.
Irish Language Businesses
Mr F Brolly asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline what steps he has taken to sustain Irish language businesses in Northern Ireland.
(AQO 492/08)
Mr Dodds: In order to qualify as an Invest NI client, businesses must be capable of demonstrating that they have, or have the potential to, achieve sales of over £100,000 per year, with sales outside NI of at least 25% of turnover or greater than £250,000 per year. Invest NI currently has 2,400 client companies. A very small number of these work within the Irish language sector. Invest NI assistance is dependent on businesses submitting proposals to the Agency for consideration. Invest NI will consider any such approach from Irish language businesses and their proposals will be assessed against the criteria outlined above.
Environment
Health Impacts of the Built Environment
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of the Environment what is her assessment of the conclusions reached in the 'Health Impacts of the Built Environment' document, published by the Institute of Public Health in Ireland.
(AQW 499/08)
The Minister of the Environment (Mrs Foster): I have noted the conclusions of this document. My Department will participate fully in the review, due to start in 2008, which is to be carried out by the Ministerial Group on Public Health.
Planning Conditions
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the reasons why a planning condition specifying that obscure glass be fitted in windows at 18 Brae Grove, Ballygowan, has not been enforced by the Planning Service.
(AQW 636/08)
Mrs Foster: The Department has concluded that because the condition relating to the use of obscure glazing is imprecise in that it does not specify which one of a number of windows in the relevant elevation it refers to, as such it would be unenforceable. The case has been closed and the complainant advised that the Department regrettably proposed to take no further action in relation to the matter.
The Department apologises for the error which has resulted in the case being closed without a satisfactory conclusion. Staff have been made aware of the developments and informed that such lapses should not be repeated.
Planning Policy Statement 14
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment if she will make a clear statement on the implications of the recent High Court decision on Draft Planning Policy Statement 14: Sustainable Development in the Countryside; and in particular, if she will (i) detail any policy implications; (ii) clarify the situation in respect of refusals made by the Planning Service under the 'unlawful' Draft PPS 14; and (iii) clarify the situation in respect of refusals made by the Planning Service under Draft PPS 14, and later upheld by the Planning Appeals Commission.
(AQW 648/08)
Mrs Foster: A final decision by the Courts on the legal proceedings of draft PPS 14 is still awaited. I shall make a clear statement on draft PPS 14 when this is received.
In respect of refusals issued on the basis of draft PPS 14 since its introduction in March 2006, the Departmental Solicitors Office has clearly indicated that these remain valid decisions as they are protected by the public law principle of presumptive validity. This means that unless such decisions are the subject of a timely legal challenge themselves they remain valid.
In terms of an appeal decision where the Planning Appeal Commission dismissed the appeal, Planning Service can decline to consider a repeat application; however this is a discretionary power.
Rural Planning Policy
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment to clarify what rural planning policy now applies, from 16 March 2006 onwards.
(AQW 649/08)
Mrs Foster: The policy provisions of Draft Planning Policy Statement 14 ‘Sustainable Development in the Countryside’ have applied since 16 March 2006 and continue to be a material consideration in the decision making process. This will remain the case until the final outcome of the legal proceedings taken by Omagh District Council against Draft PPS 14 is known.
Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991
Mr M McLaughlin asked the Minister of the Environment what action she will take to ensure that the appropriate Articles (e.g. Article 40) of the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 are fully enforced, requiring developers to carry out whatever infrastructural upgrades are required to meet additional pressures on roads, sewerage, schools and other social facilities, created by proposed developments.
(AQW 682/08)
Mrs Foster: My Department has the power under Article 40 of the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 to enter into legally binding planning agreements with developers to secure the provision of for example open space, additional community facilities etc where it is appropriate to do so. Planning Service’s normal approach is to attach planning conditions to assure the necessary infrastructure is provided but Article 40 also may be used where it is not possible to secure the provision of such facilities by normal planning conditions.
The use of an Article 40 planning agreement is considered by Planning Service on a case by case basis and used where necessary depending on the specific circumstances relating to each planning application.
There are numerous examples where this has been used across Northern Ireland. Article 40 agreements are legally binding and enforceable by injunction.
Planning Applications
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment to detail whether or not the Planning Service will look favourably upon planning applications on sites that form part of the back garden of existing properties, in order to enable families to build on their own land, in light of the increase in house prices throughout Northern Ireland.
(AQW 693/08)
Mrs Foster: In determining planning applications that involve the subdivision of existing residential sites Planning Service considers each application within the relevant planning policy context set out in PPS 7: Quality Residential Developments and PPS 12: Housing in Settlement as well as taking account of all other relevant material planning considerations.
There is considerable variation in the size and specific characteristics of individual residential sites and Planning Service must deal with each case on its individual merits. Current policy makes it clear that over-development of a site, leading to an unacceptable loss of the established character of an area and an adverse impact of the privacy and amenity of adjoining residential properties is unacceptable.
Medieval Fish Traps
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of the Environment if she will authorise an archaeological excavation of the medieval fish traps on the coastline of Newcastle.
(AQW 725/08)
Mrs Foster: There are no current plans for a full programme of maritime archaeological recording in the Newcastle area and therefore I do not think it would be appropriate to undertake excavations at this time. Such excavations will be considered when resources are available to carry out a full archaeological recording programme.
Lignite Resource Area
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of objections that have been received in relation to the Lignite Resource Area in North Antrim, under the draft Northern Area Plan.
(AQW 727/08)
Mrs Foster: The Draft Northern Area Plan 2016 was published on 11 May 2005. It contains one Policy and one Designation relevant to the Lignite Resource Area in North Antrim.
My Department has received:
- 3,847 objections and 4 counter objections to Policy MIN 1: Protection of the Lignite Resource, and
- 3,914 objections and 6 counter objections to Designation COU 15: Lignite Resource Area.
Redevelopment of Land, Magheramorne
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment what action she is taking to encourage the redevelopment of former industrial lands at Magheramorne in a sustainable manner; and what consideration is she giving to the views of a wide variety of conservation and residents' groups who wish to see this brownfield site further enhance the environment in Larne Lough.
(AQW 733/08)
Mrs Foster: This planning application is still being processed by Planning Service officials and a final decision on the matter has therefore not yet been taken. All representations that are received in relation to the proposal, including any from residents’ groups and others, will of course be given full and careful consideration prior to a decision being reached.
Waste Management
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the support her department will provide for small waste management businesses, in both the community and small business sector.
(AQW 737/08)
Mrs Foster: My Department’s Environment and Heritage Service provides small waste management businesses with comprehensive advisory support and funding. Financial support is offered to community groups through ARENA Network’s Helping Hands programme, and we are currently supporting a number of voluntary and community based projects through the Community Waste Innovation Fund (CWIF). CWIF has offered some £3m in grants to enable this sector to play its part in reducing waste. Financial support is also provided to the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) which focuses on creating stable and efficient markets for recycled materials and products. This work is supplemented with practical and legislative waste guidance through programmes such as NetRegs a confidential, on-line tool available to all businesses in Northern Ireland, to assist them with complying with environmental legislation.
Gorse Areas
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of the Environment what consideration she will give to the introduction of grants for the sustainable management of gorse areas, taking into account the amount of money that is currently allocated to dealing with gorse fires.
(AQW 762/08)
Mrs Foster: My Department, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Mourne Heritage Trust are working together on the development of a sustainable management plan for gorse control.
An initial pilot study of gorse fire incidents in the Mournes area is being carried out. The study has two main aims: one is to reduce the likelihood of malicious gorse fires through the targeting by the relevant authorities of anti-social behaviour. The second aim is to improve the area of priority habitats in the Mournes by the removal of invasive gorse through financial support and expert advice to landowners within designated sites.
This will be delivered through DARD’s agri-environment schemes or through management agreements between the land owners and EHS.
It is hoped that the reduction of invasive gorse, coupled with a close examination of anti-social behaviour trends, will reduce the resource requirements of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service to tackle such gorse fires in the future.
Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of the Environment what consideration she has given to increasing the amount of funding allocated to the management of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
(AQW 763/08)
Mrs Foster: I fully recognise the value of the partnerships that have been established in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and the challenge of securing sustainable funding. My officials have just completed the first phase of a review of our support to partnership bodies, with a view to achieving more financially secure management arrangements for AONBs in the future.
The next phase will be to examine models elsewhere such as the Sustainable Development Fund in England and Wales. My officials will then meet with current and potential co-funders to explore further funding options.
Staff Team Building
Mr S Moutray asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the total cost of (i) staff away days; and (ii) staff team building exercises, in each of the last three years.
(AQW 806/08)
Mrs Foster:
FINANCIAL YEAR |
EXPENDITURE ON STAFF AWAY DAYS £’s |
EXPENDITURE ON STAFF TEAM BUILDING EXERCISES £’s |
|---|---|---|
| 2004/05 | 28,335 | 7,809 |
| 2005/06 | 43,836 | 19,482 |
| 2006/07 | 31,731 | 11,395 |
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr D Ford asked the Minister of the Environment to detail how good relations considerations have been taken into account within her department's bid, in relation to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 837/08)
Mrs Foster: I can confirm that the Department is committed to ensuring that it fulfils its duties under both Section 75(1) and (2) of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 in relation to the promotion of equality of opportunity and the desirability of promoting good relations. Promotion of equality of opportunity and good relations is an important part of departmental policy development, legislative activities and operational programmes. For each of the Comprehensive Spending Review (known as Budget 2007 in Northern Ireland) spending and efficiency proposals put forward by the Department a High Level Impact Assessment (HLIA) form, agreed by the Equality Commission for the Budget process, has been completed showing how each proposal has been considered against both duties. Indeed the Equality Commission held a forum earlier in the year, with representation from all departments, to discuss the equality of opportunity and good relations agenda as it relates to the Budget process.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr D Ford asked the Minister of the Environment to detail how the Deloitte Touche report, ‘The Cost of Division – A Shared Future Strategy’ is being taken into account within her department's approach to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 838/08)
Mrs Foster: The report, which was commissioned by the previous administration in March 2006, is an independent piece of research into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland (NI) divide. The final report, which is unpublished, represents the views of Deloitte and not those of the First Minister, Deputy First Minister and the Executive and therefore does not form an agreed basis for future policy development. I should also say that the services provided by my Department are generally provided to the whole community on a common basis and have not therefore been particularly affected by the divisions in the community.
Gaint's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of the Environment to detail all correspondence from MLAs that has been recorded on the Planning Service's file for the private application for a visitors' centre at the Giant's Causeway; and to list the names of all MLAs from whom such correspondence has been received.
(AQW 842/08)
Mrs Foster: The only letter from an MLA on the planning file is a copy of a letter from Mr Ian Paisley Jr. to the then Secretary of State on 20 January 2005 listing matters of importance to the constituents in North Antrim.
The letter was copied to the file for information purposes only and Planning Service did not treat this letter as a representation. The letter has been available to view through the open file system.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment, in view of the Giant's Causeway's World Heritage Site status, if she will explain why she did not consult with UNESCO prior to issuing her statement of 10 September 2007, saying that she was minded to grant planning permission to Seaport Investments; and if she will now consult with UNESCO on this issue.
(AQW 843/08)
Mrs Foster: I did not consult with UNESCO prior to making my announcement on 10 September 2007 because it was not necessary to do so. As a matter of courtesy my officials advised the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and UNESCO of my announcement and stated that I would provide a full report in due course.
In my statement I said that while I saw considerable merit in the proposal from Seaport Investments Limited there were some aspects which required clarification. I have asked my officials to engage with the developer and key stakeholders on those aspects and to report the outcome.
I will notify UNESCO before I make a final decision if there is any question that my decision will impact on the World Heritage Site.
DCMS is the normal channel for communications with UNESCO on matters relating to World Heritage Sites. It is therefore normal practice for my Department to deal with issues relating to UNESCO through DCMS.
Although UNESCO officials visited the Giant’s Causeway in 2003 and 2005, that was prior to my Ministerial responsibility and I did not therefore have occasion to meet them.
I am in correspondence with Margaret Hodge, the Minister responsible for Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism at DCMS, in relation to the planning application which is under my consideration.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment, in view of the Giant's Causeway's World Heritage Site status, if she will explain why her department has no ongoing direct channel of communication with UNESCO; and if one will now be established.
(AQW 844/08)
Mrs Foster: I did not consult with UNESCO prior to making my announcement on 10 September 2007 because it was not necessary to do so. As a matter of courtesy my officials advised the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and UNESCO of my announcement and stated that I would provide a full report in due course.
In my statement I said that while I saw considerable merit in the proposal from Seaport Investments Limited there were some aspects which required clarification. I have asked my officials to engage with the developer and key stakeholders on those aspects and to report the outcome.
I will notify UNESCO before I make a final decision if there is any question that my decision will impact on the World Heritage Site.
DCMS is the normal channel for communications with UNESCO on matters relating to World Heritage Sites. It is therefore normal practice for my Department to deal with issues relating to UNESCO through DCMS.
Although UNESCO officials visited the Giant’s Causeway in 2003 and 2005, that was prior to my Ministerial responsibility and I did not therefore have occasion to meet them.
I am in correspondence with Margaret Hodge, the Minister responsible for Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism at DCMS, in relation to the planning application which is under my consideration.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment if she will explain why she was not aware of the name of the senior UNESCO official who has had responsibility for the Giant's Causeway for several years, as she stated on Radio Ulster on 5 October 2007; and if she will now meet with this official.
(AQW 845/08)
Mrs Foster: I did not consult with UNESCO prior to making my announcement on 10 September 2007 because it was not necessary to do so. As a matter of courtesy my officials advised the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and UNESCO of my announcement and stated that I would provide a full report in due course.
In my statement I said that while I saw considerable merit in the proposal from Seaport Investments Limited there were some aspects which required clarification. I have asked my officials to engage with the developer and key stakeholders on those aspects and to report the outcome.
I will notify UNESCO before I make a final decision if there is any question that my decision will impact on the World Heritage Site.
DCMS is the normal channel for communications with UNESCO on matters relating to World Heritage Sites. It is therefore normal practice for my Department to deal with issues relating to UNESCO through DCMS.
Although UNESCO officials visited the Giant’s Causeway in 2003 and 2005, that was prior to my Ministerial responsibility and I did not therefore have occasion to meet them.
I am in correspondence with Margaret Hodge, the Minister responsible for Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism at DCMS, in relation to the planning application which is under my consideration.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment if she will explain why UNESCO was informed of developments in relation to the Giant's Causeway only at the same time as her statement to the press on 10 September 2007; and what is her assessment of whether or not this is the best way of maintaining the support of UNESCO in relation to this issue.
(AQW 846/08)
Mrs Foster: I did not consult with UNESCO prior to making my announcement on 10 September 2007 because it was not necessary to do so. As a matter of courtesy my officials advised the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and UNESCO of my announcement and stated that I would provide a full report in due course.
In my statement I said that while I saw considerable merit in the proposal from Seaport Investments Limited there were some aspects which required clarification. I have asked my officials to engage with the developer and key stakeholders on those aspects and to report the outcome.
I will notify UNESCO before I make a final decision if there is any question that my decision will impact on the World Heritage Site.
DCMS is the normal channel for communications with UNESCO on matters relating to World Heritage Sites. It is therefore normal practice for my Department to deal with issues relating to UNESCO through DCMS.
Although UNESCO officials visited the Giant’s Causeway in 2003 and 2005, that was prior to my Ministerial responsibility and I did not therefore have occasion to meet them.
I am in correspondence with Margaret Hodge, the Minister responsible for Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism at DCMS, in relation to the planning application which is under my consideration.
Seaport Investments Planning Application
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of the Environment to detail what representations her department has received from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in support of the planning proposal from Seaport Investments, prior to 10 September 2007.
(AQW 847/08)
Mrs Foster: My Department has received no representations supporting the Seaport Investments planning proposal from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI). During the processing of the application Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, both organisations associated with DETI, were consulted. The responses received have been available through the open file procedure and have been considered by Planning Service during the processing of the application.
Planning Proposal at the Giant's Causeway
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to her answer to AQW 568/08, if she will clarify which MP was scheduled to hold a site meeting on 3 January 2007.
(AQW 854/08)
Mrs Foster: I am neither aware of the scheduled site meeting on 3 January 2007, in respect of the planning application at the Giant’s Causeway, to which you refer nor which MP may have been involved. However, if you have more specific information I will be happy to instruct my officials in Planning Service to investigate further and will inform you of the outcome.
Northern Area Plan
Mr J Wells asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the implications that the recent Judicial Review of the Northern Area Plan will have on the Draft Ards and Down Area Plan.
(AQW 903/08)
Mrs Foster: My Department gave public notice in January 2005 that it determined in accordance with the European Directive and consequent Regulations that a Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Ards and Down Area Plan 2015 was not feasible. In this respect there are no implications from the ongoing legal process relating to the Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Draft Northern Area Plan for the Draft Ards and Down Area Plan.
Larne Shoreline
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment what is her assessment of the impact of the continuing demolition of large dwellings along the shoreline at Larne, and their replacement with high density apartments, in light of the fact that this is the first area seen by tourists arriving in Northern Ireland on the North Channel ferry routes.
(AQW 997/08)
Mrs Foster: The issue of the demolition of dwellings and their replacement by apartments has yet not become a significant problem as only two permissions have been granted. However, there is pressure for further re-development along this shoreline and I am aware of the concern being expressed by the local community about the impact of such change. Additional guidance to planning staff has recently been issued on my instruction about the application of current policy in respect of this type of development to ensure the established character of this area is properly protected in line with policy objectives and that the individual or cumulative effects of proposals do not significantly erode the environmental quality, character and amenity of existing areas, for example through inappropriate design or over development.
High Density Developments
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment what steps she will take to prevent coastal towns and villages in East Antrim from becoming overwhelmed by high density, high profile developments, similar to those that have impacted adversely on communities along the north coast.
(AQW 998/08)
Mrs Foster: I am aware of the concerns being expressed about the impact of new development on small towns and villages and I can confirm that existing policy provisions and specifically the intensification of development within existing residential areas is currently being considered by a joint group of officials within my Department and DRD. More recently, Planning Service issued a circular on my instruction to all its professional planners to remind them of the need to fully consider the impact on the established residential character when processing applications for new residential development.
Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to her answer to AQW 568/08, if she will clarify which MP was scheduled to hold a site meeting on 3 January 2002.
(AQW 1001/08)
Mrs Foster: There was no site meeting on 3 January 2002, in respect of the Seaport Investment planning application at the Giant’s Causeway. The meeting that you seem to be referring to is one mentioned on file in a report from the local planning office which details some planning history around the Causeway Centre. The meeting was a deferral meeting that took place on 3 January 2002 after Planning Service had consulted Moyle Council on 17 December 2001 with an opinion to refuse an application E/2001/0302. The Council disagreed with the Planning Service opinion and a meeting with local councillors, Randal McDonnell, Gardiner Kane, David McAllister, William Graham, George Hartin and Catherine McCambridge and the local MP, Dr I R K Paisley MP MLA was arranged to discuss the case.
The application that was the subject of the deferral site meeting was for the erection of an arts, crafts and cultural centre with ancillary facilities and customer/visitor parking on land at Runkerry Road opposite the terminus for the Bushmills/Giant’s Causeway railway. The site was different from that of the current Seaport Investments site although there was a slight overlap. The application was subsequently the subject of a non-determination planning appeal which was dismissed by the Planning Appeals Commission on 11 July 2002.
Finance and Personnel
Public Sector Employment
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what steps he is taking to increase public sector employment in East Antrim, in light of the DETI Census of Employment that shows only 10% public sector employment in East Antrim, compared to 62% public sector employment in South Belfast and 53% in Belfast as a whole.
(AQO 25/08)
The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Mr Robinson): The consultation on ‘The Guiding Principles for the Location of Public Sector Jobs in Northern Ireland’ which closed on 30 April 2007 is the first step in developing a framework which would facilitate future decision-making on the location of public sector jobs. Following analysis of the consultation responses the Executive Committee held an initial discussion on the matter in July 2007 and will discuss the matter further this month.
Parenting Initiatives
Mr R Beggs asked the Minister for Finance and Personnel what funding is being made available to implement cross-cutting parenting initiatives in the Department of Finance and Personnel, the Department of Education and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
(AQW 667/08)
Mr Robinson: The Department of Finance and Personnel does not take forward any cross-cutting parenting initiatives.
The Department of Education allocates earmarked funding for parenting initiatives to the Education and Library Boards; the total funding provided for 2007-08 is £260,000.
With regard to the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, the Secretary of State’s announcement, on 6 December 2006, of a further £6m from the Children and Young People’s Package has resulted in £4.5m being made available this financial year to target families and parents in need of additional support through the following initiatives:
|
£’000 |
|---|---|
| Contact Centres | 800 |
| Young People/Parent Support – young children on edge of crime | 1,000 |
| Young Carers – caring for adults | 500 |
| Family Group Conferencing | 500 |
| Family Therapeutic Workers | 500 |
| Mediation | 210 |
| Parent Helpline | 250 |
| Information service for parents | 198 |
| Parenting Programmes | 344 |
| Children’s Centres | 125 |
| Total | 4,427 |
Census
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what consideration he is giving to the introduction of censuses at five-yearly intervals, rather than at the current ten-yearly interval.
(AQW 774/08)
Mr Robinson: Planning is proceeding on the basis that the next census of population will take place in 2011 in conjunction with other parts of the United Kingdom. The need for a census at more frequent intervals is kept under review and forms an integral part of the evaluation process after each census. To date the ten yearly benchmark of the population is considered to have achieved the right balance between the accuracy of population estimates and cost.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the implications for Northern Ireland of the Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 1025/08)
Mr Robinson: The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced the outcome of the 2007 Comprehensive Spending Review on Tuesday 9 October 2007, alongside his Pre-Budget Report. In overall terms the Comprehensive Spending Review provides for the Northern Ireland DEL to increase by an average of 1.7% per annum in real terms over the period 2008-09 to 2010-11.
However, prior to the CSR announcement, downward adjustments were made, by the Treasury, to the 2007-08 baselines of some Whitehall Departments, particularly the Department of Health. This had a consequential impact on the baselines of the Devolved Administrations (via the application of the Barnett formula to those adjustments). In the case of Northern Ireland, there has been a reduction of £114 million which means the average annual real terms growth compared to actual 2007-08 spend is lower, at 1.2%, with growth of only 0.3% in 2010-11.
Notwithstanding this issue, the resources made available to NI over the CSR period amount to £443 million more than was available within the position set out by the Chancellor in May of this year. In addition, through direct discussions with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, I have been able to secure access to our full stock of End Year Flexibility over the period – again representing a significant addition, in this case some £295 million, over the position reached in May.
Although I would, of course, have hoped for a better outcome from the CSR, the overall fiscal position at UK level has been clear for sometime, and the position is not unexpected. The CSR outcome further highlights the need for local departments to deliver significant levels of cash releasing savings in the coming year in order to meet costs pressures and provide for improved services. This will require Executive Ministers to rake some difficult and challenging decisions as regards the prioritisation of public services as well as how those services are delivered.
In this respect I am establishing a Performance and Efficiency Delivery Unit to identify the scope to generate cash-releasing efficiencies and improve delivery across the public sector.
Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Patients Treated in Great Britain
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he will provide a breakdown of (i) the number of occasions upon which patients from Northern Ireland have received treatment; and (ii) the types of treatment given, at hospitals in Great Britain, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 695/08)
The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Mr McGimpsey): The number of occasions upon which patients from Northern Ireland received treatment; and type of treatment given (by specialty) at hospitals in Great Britain, in each of the last five years is detailed in the table below.
Specialty |
Number of occasions upon which patients from NI have received treatment at hospitals in GB |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
|
| General Surgery | 137 | 126 | 200 | 199 | 207 |
| Urology | 7 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 44 |
| T & O Surgery | 100 | 147 | 120 | 199 | 268 |
| ENT | 3 | 34 | 13 | 25 | 25 |
| Ophthalmology | 94 | 113 | 136 | 140 | 169 |
| Oral Surgery | 2 | 2 | 6 | 4 | 10 |
| Orthodontics | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Neurosurgery | 12 | 11 | 25 | 57 | 23 |
| Plastic Surgery | 58 | 42 | 41 | 38 | 102 |
| Cardiac Surgery | 304 | 199 | 199 | 117 | 115 |
| Paediatric Surgery | 20 | 27 | 30 | 25 | 84 |
| Thoracic Surgery | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 7 |
| Accident & Emergency | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 12 |
| Anaesthetics | 2 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
| General Medicine | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 26 |
| Gastroenterology | 2 | 7 | 5 | 13 | 22 |
| Endocrinology | 0 | 2 | 10 | 6 | 7 |
| Haematology | 10 | 24 | 31 | 20 | 17 |
| Audiological Medicine | 1 | 1 | 14 | 1 | 0 |
| Clinical Genetics | 0 | 2 | 1 | 7 | 14 |
Continued
Specialty |
Number of occasions upon which patients from NI have received treatment at hospitals in GB |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
|
| Clinical Immunology & Allergy | 1 | 2 | 0 | 4 | 5 |
| Rehabilitation | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 4 |
| Cardiology | 58 | 73 | 125 | 121 | 160 |
| Dermatology | 4 | 2 | 10 | 14 | 18 |
| Thoracic Medicine | 0 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 1 |
| Infectious Diseases | 0 | 4 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| Genito-Urinary Medicine | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Nephrology | 3 | 4 | 3 | 6 | 1 |
| Medical Oncology | 0 | 3 | 0 | 2 | 7 |
| Nuclear Medicine | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Neurology | 96 | 95 | 103 | 134 | 191 |
| Rheumatology | 8 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 7 |
| Paediatrics | 136 | 140 | 154 | 98 | 149 |
| Paediatric Neurology | 8 | 9 | 16 | 17 | 19 |
| Geriatric Medicine | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Dental Medicine Specialties | 4 | 0 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| Obstetrics | 5 | 24 | 12 | 21 | 32 |
| Gynaecology | 7 | 8 | 15 | 13 | 34 |
| Obstetrics (Ante Natal) | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| GP Other | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Mental Illness | 111 | 154 | 181 | 235 | 295 |
| Child & Adolescent Psychiatry | 2 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 12 |
| Old Age Psychiatry | 14 | 17 | 9 | 9 | 1 |
| Clinical Oncology | 66 | 58 | 98 | 108 | 92 |
| Radiology | 0 | 0 | 2 | 12 | 9 |
| Chemical Pathology | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Haematology | 0 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 7 |
| Medical Microbiology | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Other | 340 | 301 | 357 | 493 | 450 |
Source: Health and Social Services Boards
Patients Treated in Great Britain
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of patients from Northern Ireland who (i) were offered medical treatment at hospitals in Great Britain; (ii) received medical treatment at hospitals in Great Britain; and to detail the cost his department incurred in the provision of this service, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 697/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The number of patients from Northern Ireland who (i) were offered medical treatment at hospitals in Great Britain is not available
The number of patients from Northern Ireland who (ii) received medical treatment at hospitals in Great Britain in each of the last five years are detailed in the table below.
Financial year |
Number of patients from Northern Ireland who received medical treatment at hospitals in GB |
|---|---|
| 2002/03 | 893 |
| 2003/04 | 841 |
| 2004/05 | 896 |
| 2005/06 | 1070 |
| 2006/07 | 1341 |
Source: Health and Social Services Boards
The cost incurred by the Department for Health, Social Services and Public Safety in the provision of this service, are only available from financial year 2003/04 to 2005/06. This information is detailed in the table below.
Financial year |
Cost incurred by DHSSPS in the provision of medical treatment for patients from Northern Ireland at hospitals in GB (£ million) |
|---|---|
| 2003/04 | 5.6 |
| 2004/05 | 8.7 |
| 2005/06 | 10.9 |
Source: DHSSPS
The above figures relate to payments made directly to hospitals in Great Britain by the four Health and Social Service Boards. Further expenditure may have been incurred by Trusts who have received funding from the Boards, but who have opted, for medical reasons, to send a patient to Great Britain for treatment. Information on these costs is not captured by the Department.
European Regulation 1924/2006
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what is his assessment of the impact of European Regulation 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims, which applies from 1 July 2007, and which will restrict the legitimate activities of dieticians to communicate practical health information about food and drinks.
(AQW 719/08)
Mr McGimpsey: European Regulation 1924/2006 applies to commercial communications only. It will not control dieticians’ ability to provide advice or information on
Nutrition and healthy eating in a non-commercial context.
The Food Standards Agency has produced a Regulatory Impact Assessment which accompanied the implementing Statutory Rules of Northern Ireland and was laid before the Assembly on 27 July 2007. The Government's Regulatory Impact Assessment reflects information received from consultations with stakeholders.
Community Care Packages
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people who were awaiting community care packages on 31 March 2007, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.
(AQW 720/08)
Mr McGimpsey: At 31 March 2007, 635 people were awaiting community care packages in Northern Ireland, of which 347 were waiting in the community and 288 in an acute setting.
HSC Trust |
Total Waiting for Community Care |
|---|---|
| Belfast HSC Trust | 136 |
| Northern HSC Trust1 | 244 |
| South Eastern HSC Trust | 188 |
| Southern HSC Trust | 13 |
| Western HSC Trust | 54 |
| Northern Ireland | 635 |
Source: DHSSPS Information returns CC5b & DD1.
1 The Trust of residence of 19 patients waiting in an acute setting in Northern HSC Trust hospitals is unavailable. These patients have been counted as Northern HSC Trust residents.
NHS Dentists
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he will provide a break down, by Health and Social Care Trust, of the number of dentists currently accepting National Health Service patients.
(AQW 775/08)
Mr McGimpsey: It is not possible to provide information on the number of dentists who will accept new Health Service patients as this information is not collected centrally; however, Table 1 provides information on the number of dentists registered to provide Health Service dentistry in each Health and Social Care Trust at September 2007 who have had new Health Service patient registrations in the previous year. These could include re-registrations of existing patients whose 15-month registration period had elapsed or patients who have moved from another dentist. Note that it does not mean that these dentists will continue to accept Health Service registrations, nor that other dentists will not have Health Service registrations in the future.
Table 1
Health & Social Care Trust |
Number of dentists with new Health Service patients registrations 1 2 3 4 |
|---|---|
| Belfast | 199 |
| Northern | 181 |
| South Eastern | 140 |
| Southern | 152 |
| Western | 118 |
| TOTAL | 790 |
Source: Central Services Agency
1 Includes Principal dentists only - excludes assistants and Vocational Dental Practitioners.
2 Dentist numbers taken from the list of all dentists registered to provide Health Service dentistry in September 2007.
3 Should a dentist work in more than one practice within a Health and Social Care Trust then they have only been counted once within that Trust but if they work across Trusts then they have also been counted once in each relevant one.
4 Includes dentists working in the 12 month period October 2006 to September 2007 with registered patients at September 2007 who were not registered at October 2006
i.e. new patient registrations. Also includes dentists who had patients registered at September 2007 but had no patients registered at October 2006 i.e., dentists who had just joined the service or dentists who had returned to the service during the year.
New Hospital in Omagh
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the proposed timetable for the opening of the new hospital in Omagh; and what services will be provided by the hospital.
(AQW 786/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The construction of the new Local Hospital Complex is expected to be completed in 2011/12. Advance works contracts will start shortly and target project milestones are:
Appoint Preferred Bidder 2009/10
Construction commenced 2010/11
Transfer to New Hospital 2012/13
The new hospital is expected to provide 70% to 80% of the hospital services required by the local population. Services are expected to include:
A 24/7 urgent care centre,
Outpatient services,
Diagnostic services,
Renal dialysis,
Day procedures and day case surgery,
Inpatient beds, and
Ambulatory care services.
In addition, the Local Hospital Complex will include:
A Health and Care Centre, and
A Mental Health Centre with inpatient beds.
Nurses in Training
Mr A Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of nurses trained in hospitals in Northern Ireland, in the final year prior to the introduction of the delivery of this training in universities.
(AQW 788/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Prior to the Department commissioning nurse training from Queen’s University with effect from September 1997, student nurses were trained in five colleges of nursing in Northern Ireland. These colleges were the responsibility of the National Board for Nursing which ceased to exist with effect from 31st March 2002.
Based on bursary starter figures for the three years 1994, 1995 and 1996, it can be determined that there were approximately a total of 1391 nurses in training prior to September 1997.
Non-EU Nurses
Mr A Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of nurses from abroad who are currently employed in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 789/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Information is not available in the form requested. Information is only collected on numbers of nurses from EU and non-EU countries, and the available latest information indicates that there are 909 (1) nurses (855.73 WTE (2)) from non-EU countries employed in the Health Service in Northern Ireland.
Notes:
- These figures do not include Nursing Auxiliaries and bank staff.
- WTE = Whole-Time Equivalent.
Nurses in Training
Mr A Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of nurses trained in Northern Ireland, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 790/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The numbers of pre-registration nurses that began training in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years are as follows:
Full time undergraduates
Academic year 2007-2008 – 730
Academic year 2006-2007 – 730
Academic year 2005-2006 - 750
Academic year 2004-2005 - 750
Academic year 2003-2004 - 750
Employment based part time nursing
Academic year 2007-2008 – 52
Academic year 2006-2007 – 36
Academic year 2005-2006 - 18
Academic year 2004-2005 - 0
Academic year 2003-2004 - 30
Nurse Training Costs
Mr A Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the total cost of training a fully qualified nurse.
(AQW 791/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Based on the rates for academic year 2007-2008, the cost in Northern Ireland of training an average student nurse to qualification is in the region of £36,220 per student.
NHS Physiotherapists
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the total number of physiotherapists employed in the National Health Service in Northern Ireland, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 801/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The information is detailed in the table below:
Physiotherapists and Physiotherapy Support in NI HSC as at 30th March in each year
| Physiotherapists | Physiotherapy Support | |||
| Headcount | WTE | Headcount | WTE | |
| 2003 | 738 | 549.18 | 128 | 81.64 |
| 2004 | 792 | 590.26 | 126 | 79.1 |
| 2005 | 834 | 622.81 | 106 | 67.6 |
| 2006 | 872 | 648.42 | 110 | 67.91 |
| 2007 | 935 | 689.55 | 136 | 89.21 |
Source: Human Resources Management System
Notes:
- WTE = Whole-Time Equivalent.
Physiotherapy Training
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the total cost of training a physiotherapy graduate.
(AQW 802/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Based on the 2007-2008 academic year’s costs, the total cost in Northern Ireland of training a physiotherapy graduate is in the region of £25,311 per student.
Physiotherapist Waiting Times
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the average waiting time for patients who need to see a physiotherapist.
(AQW 803/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Information on the average waiting time for physiotherapy is not collected centrally. Information is, however, collected on completed waiting times for a first outpatient appointment of an episode of care with a community physiotherapist, according to specific time bands.
During the quarter ending 31 March 2007, 18,380 persons attended their first outpatient appointment with a community physiotherapist. Of these, 13,643 had waited less than 3 months, 3,859 had waited 3 to 6 months, and 878 had waited 6 months or more.
Time waiting |
All Patients attending first Physiotherapy appointment |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Less than 3 months |
3-6 months |
6 months or over |
||
Number |
13,643 | 3,859 | 878 | 18,380 |
Percentage |
74% | 21% | 5% | - |
Source: Departmental Information Return CP3
Note: The service may be provided by either community or hospital Trusts.
Physiotherapists Commencing Training
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of physiotherapists trained in Northern Ireland, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 804/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Academic year 2007-2008 - 50
Academic year 2006-2007 - 0
Academic year 2005-2006 - 94
Academic year 2004-2005 - 70
Academic year 2003-2004 – 93
Physiotherapists
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans he has to match the demand for physiotherapists with supply from colleges in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 805/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Department has established on-going workforce planning as a means of maintaining focus on the supply/demand of appropriately trained staff to meet service needs. Recent work carried out has identified a number of areas to be addressed in the longer-term, to safeguard availability of an appropriate physiotherapy workforce into the future. This includes consideration of career development pathways and examination of the optimum balance in grade levels in physiotherapy from junior to the most senior levels.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr T Lunn asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how the Deloitte Touche report, ‘The Cost of Division – A Shared Future Strategy’ is being taken into account within his department's approach to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 832/08)
Mr McGimpsey: DHSSPS is fully committed to the policy and strategic framework for good relations in Northern Ireland as outlined within the report, ‘The Cost of Division – A Shared Future Strategy’. DHSSPS promotes a culture of tolerance in which all individuals are treated as equals and, good relations is an underpinning theme in developing our policies and practices and shapes the delivery of high quality public services.
Consideration of good relations is an integral element of my Department’s work on the Comprehensive Spending Review. At each stage in the preparation and collation of bids, respondents were required to set out whether the bid had a positive or negative impact on equality, good relations, poverty/social inclusion and sustainable development. This information provided essential evidence to support the prioritisation and ranking of Departmental bids and was incorporated in the information submitted to DFP in support of each bid.
My officials also used their knowledge of stakeholders’ needs and views obtained in last year’s Priorities and Budget consultation to advise on areas where expenditure might be maintained, be prioritised for any additional funding available, or reduced to help fund higher priority activities in other areas. In particular, prioritisation of mental health and children and young people reflect the views of HPSS stakeholders.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr D Ford asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how good relations considerations have been taken into account within his department's bid, in relation to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 841/08)
Mr McGimpsey: DHSSPS is fully committed to the policy and strategic framework for good relations in Northern Ireland as outlined within the report, ‘The Cost of Division – A Shared Future Strategy’. DHSSPS promotes a culture of tolerance in which all individuals are treated as equals and, good relations is an underpinning theme in developing our policies and practices and shapes the delivery of high quality public services.
Consideration of good relations is an integral element of my Department’s work on the Comprehensive Spending Review. At each stage in the preparation and collation of bids, respondents were required to set out whether the bid had a positive or negative impact on equality, good relations, poverty/social inclusion and sustainable development. This information provided essential evidence to support the prioritisation and ranking of Departmental bids and was incorporated in the information submitted to DFP in support of each bid.
My officials also used their knowledge of stakeholders’ needs and views obtained in last year’s Priorities and Budget consultation to advise on areas where expenditure might be maintained, be prioritised for any additional funding available, or reduced to help fund higher priority activities in other areas. In particular, prioritisation of mental health and children and young people reflect the views of HPSS stakeholders.
Satellite Cancer Centre
Mr P Doherty asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he will provide a firm commitment that a satellite cancer centre, based in the north west, will be delivered; and to outline the proposed timescale within which this facility will become operational, in light of the discussions on this issue at the North-South Ministerial Council meeting on 5 October 2007.
(AQW 878/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The cancer unit in Altnagelvin Area Hospital is one of five cancer units in Northern Ireland providing a wide range of high quality cancer services from screening and diagnosis to specialist oncology therapies. The Cancer Centre was developed to meet the needs of the population of Northern Ireland until 2015, beyond which further capacity is likely to be required, particularly for radiotherapy services currently only provided at the Cancer Centre.
My Department, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children, is currently assessing the potential for further cooperation to improve health service provision for people in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Cancer services is one area that will be explored within that process. I am keen to secure improvements in access to services for the population of Northern Ireland where this can be achieved through mutual co-operation. At this stage, however, I am not yet in a position to commit formally to the establishment of a satellite centre in the North West.
Community Care Infrastructure Programme
Mr P Doherty asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he will explain the reasons why Strabane Health and Care Centre was not included in the first phase of the Western Health and Social Services Board's Capital Development proposals, under the Community Care Infrastructure Programme.
(AQW 879/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Western Health and Social Services Board's capital development proposals for the Primary and Community Care Infrastructure (PCCI) programme were submitted for approval in the form of a business case to the Department in July 2007. The Strabane Health and Care Centre Project was identified by the Board in this business case as meriting inclusion in the second phase of the PCCI Programme. The prioritisation of projects and their allocation to different phases of the programme was based on an assessment of the state of existing premises and the range of services currently provided. The condition of the current Strabane premises was judged good, with some £900,000 having been spent on improvements to the Health Centre since 2001/02. It is envisaged that detailed proposals for the new Strabane project should be submitted to the Department by the end of 2009. The proposals would be subject to Departmental approval, and availability of the necessary capital and revenue funding. There are no plans for further enhanced services in the interim period.
Strabane Health and Care Centre
Mr P Doherty asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to give the timescale within which the business case for Strabane Health and Care Centre will be completed; and to outline what enhanced services are being considered for this centre in the interim period.
(AQW 880/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Western Health and Social Services Board's capital development proposals for the Primary and Community Care Infrastructure (PCCI) programme were submitted for approval in the form of a business case to the Department in July 2007. The Strabane Health and Care Centre Project was identified by the Board in this business case as meriting inclusion in the second phase of the PCCI Programme. The prioritisation of projects and their allocation to different phases of the programme was based on an assessment of the state of existing premises and the range of services currently provided. The condition of the current Strabane premises was judged good, with some £900,000 having been spent on improvements to the Health Centre since 2001/02. It is envisaged that detailed proposals for the new Strabane project should be submitted to the Department by the end of 2009. The proposals would be subject to Departmental approval, and availability of the necessary capital and revenue funding. There are no plans for further enhanced services in the interim period.
Myasthenia Gravis
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail his department's current position in relation to the treatment of myasthenia gravis; and what support is available for those who are diagnosed with this disease.
(AQW 893/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Myasthenia gravis is an immune disorder which results in muscle weakness.
A range of treatment and support options are available and will depend on the patient’s specific symptoms and their severity. This treatment is neurology led, with elements of care provided by intensive care, thoracic surgery and occasionally ophthalmologists. The medical service is delivered through general neurology clinics throughout Northern Ireland.
In severe cases patients may require specialist in-patient management. This is available in the Royal Victoria Hospital. Out-patient access to a myasthenia specialist for diagnosis and management of complex cases is available within the Belfast Trust at the Belfast City Hospital Muscle Clinic.
Intractable Epilepsy
Mr B McElduff asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what discussions he has had with Great Ormond Street Childrens Hospital, specifically in relation to the type of assessment and evaluation methods and diagnostic tools that are used to treat children with intractable epilepsy; and whether or not the hospital can provide a 3-Tesla MRI scanner to treat children suffering from this condition.
(AQW 913/08)
Mr McGimpsey: My Department has been in contact with Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and I can confirm the hospital offers a wide range of assessment, evaluation, diagnostic and treatment services for children suffering from epilepsy. A recognised expert in the management of intractable epilepsy provides a specialist service at GOSH.
I understand that a 3-TESLA MRI scanner may be used in the diagnosis of illnesses, including epilepsy, but it is not a treatment tool. While GOSH does not have a 3-TESLA MRI Scanner, clinicians have access to the highest quality diagnostic equipment available in the UK.
Home Start Organisations
Mr W Irwin asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans he has to extend the funding for Home Start organisations, under the Children and Young People's Fund, beyond 31 March 2008.
(AQW 916/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The four Home-Start projects, Home-Start Armagh and Dungannon, Home-Start Ards, Comber and the Peninsula, Home-Start Down District and Home-Start Newry and Mourne, will continue to be supported by the Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety through the Children’s Fund component of the Children and Young People’s Funding Package until March 2008. As you will be aware, Government spending plans after that date have yet to be finalised.
Ambulance Provision in Ballycastle
Mr D McKay asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the number of ambulances and associated staff that are currently stationed in Ballycastle; (ii) the number of nights on which local crews are being used for cover; and (iii) whether or not this level of provision will be developed or continued in the short, medium or long term.
(AQW 917/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service advises that one crewed emergency ambulance is currently based at Ballycastle ambulance station providing 24/7 cover in the area. This cover is provided by 11 staff. A back-up emergency ambulance vehicle is also available.
Currently, there are no plans to increase the level of ambulance provision at Ballycastle station.
Ambulances
Mr J Wells asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans he has to remove bull bars from ambulances and similar vehicles currently in use in Northern Ireland.
(AQW 936/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service currently has 3 four wheel drive vehicles fitted with "bull bars". These are specialist response vehicles with winching facilities. The bars form an integral part of the vehicles and provide structural strength and protection when operating the winches in off -road situations. There are currently no plans to remove them.
Compensation for Medical Negligence
Mr S Moutray asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 485/08, to detail the reasons for the number of outstanding compensation claims, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 958/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Information in the form requested is not readily available and could only be obtained at disproportionate costs.
Carers
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the support, including respite, that his department provides to carers and their families.
(AQW 969/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Carers have a legal entitlement to an assessment of their needs, aimed at supporting them in their caring role. Health and Social Care Trusts are empowered to provide a range of services to carers including the provision of information, advice, training and practical support. An important element of practical support is respite, which may take many different forms from regular breaks to ad hoc sitting services.
Following the launch of the carers’ strategy my Department allocated additional funding of £400,000 per annum to support the expansion of existing support services to carers, including flexible respite provision. The Department has also commissioned an in-depth study of the support services available to carers, which will make important recommendations about the type of support that will best meets carers’ needs in the future.
Suicide Prevention
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail his department's strategy and full level of support for suicide prevention in the North Antrim area.
(AQW 970/08)
Mr McGimpsey: A Suicide Prevention Strategy was launched on 30 October 2006, and it contains over 60 actions that aim to reduce the rates of suicide. I have allocated over £3 million annually to support the Strategy’s implementation.
Significant work has already been initiated regionally to implement the Strategy, including:
- establishment of a cross-sectoral implementation body;
- a pilot self-harm mentoring scheme and a pilot telephone helpline;
- research into the effects of the troubles on mental health and suicide rates;
- a new Depression Awareness Training Programme for GPs and frontline primary care staff; and
- a new joint North/South public information campaign.
In addition, £1.8 million of the Strategy’s funding has been invested, via the four local Health and Social Services Boards, to support communities, and the Nothern Health and Social Services Board (NHSSB) was subsequently allocated £363,960 to roll out their local suicide prevention action plan. The Board and local Investing for Health team the Department are now working closely with relevant stakeholders to take forward this action plan, and as part of the plan a number of initiatives have been taken forward in the North Antrim area. These include:
- appointment of a local suicide prevention co-ordinator;
- enhanced support for families bereaved by suicide;
- support for local public awareness campaign;
- additional counselling support for young people and marginalised and disadvantaged groups;
- roll out of suicide intervention and depression awareness skills training; and
- development of a community based small grants scheme programme to support local community based suicide prevention initatives.
Depression
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the support provided by his department to people in the North Antrim area who are suffering from depression.
(AQW 971/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Depression is a common disorder of varying severity, which can be treated by a range of services and treatments. Services currently can be accessed in the community, primary and secondary care settings and range from self-help and peer support initiatives to specialist mental health inpatient services.
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust provide support to people in the North Antrim area who are suffering from depression through multi – disciplinary Community Mental Health Teams. Patients also receive counselling support including the use of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy techniques. There are two clinical psychologists covering the North Antrim area (including Coleraine). Every GP has information about online courses for depression that people can access free of charge. The voluntary sector is also active in this area.
Ambulances
Ms C Hanna asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the number of ambulances in Northern Ireland; (ii) the location of ambulance stations; and (iii) the criteria used to determine where ambulance stations are placed.
(AQW 979/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) currently has 132 A&E ambulances and one cardiac ambulance,. It also has 11 Rapid Response and 105 patient care services vehicles. These vehicles are deployed at the following locations which are ambulance stations unless otherwise indicated.
NIAS Division |
|
|---|---|
Northern |
Antrim |
| Ballycastle | |
| Ballymena | |
| Ballymoney | |
| Carrickfergus | |
| Coleraine | |
| Cookstown | |
| Larne | |
| Magherafelt | |
| Portrush* | |
| Whiteabbey | |
Southern |
Armagh |
| Ballygawley* | |
| Banbridge | |
| Craigavon | |
| Dromore* | |
| Dungannon | |
| Kilkeel | |
| Lurgan* | |
| Newry | |
| Warrenpoint* | |
Eastern |
Ardoyne |
| Ards | |
| Ballymacarrett | |
| Bangor | |
| Broadway | |
| Carryduff* | |
| City Business Park (Derriaghy) | |
| Donaghadee* | |
| Downpatrick | |
| Forster Green* | |
| Knockbracken | |
| Lisburn | |
| M1 Business Park* | |
| Newcastle | |
| Ulster Hospital* | |
Western |
Altnagelvin |
| Castlederg | |
| Enniskillen | |
| Fintona* | |
| Limavady | |
| Northland* | |
| Omagh | |
| Omagh* | |
| Strabane |
*Deployment Point
The majority of NIAS’s ambulance stations were inherited on its establishment in 1995 from the four former Health and Social Services Board ambulance services and are generally sited on or near hospital facilities. More recently, scientific models employing historic activity data have been used to determine the location of additional dynamic deployment points from which ambulances can respond most effectively to emergency calls.
Vaccination Programme
Ms C Hanna asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what preparations his department is making to introduce a vaccination programme for cervical cancer; and what plans he has to roll out liquid based cytology screening across Northern Ireland.
(AQW 982/08)
Mr McGimpsey: The Department of Health and Social Services and Public Safety has bid for funding under the Comprehensive Spending Review to introduce a human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination programme aimed at reducing the number of deaths from cervical cancer.
The Department of Health and Social Services and Public Safety has begun to roll out Liquid Based Cytology across each of the four Health Board areas. It is expected all four board areas will be fully converted by March 2008.
Speech and Occupational Therapy
Ms C Hanna asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what contingency plans he has to ensure that the speech and occupational therapy needs of children and young people are met, during periods of industrial action.
(AQW 984/08)
Mr McGimpsey: My Department is considering the provision of services by Allied Health Professionals under the Value for Money Audit Programme and is seeking to establish the level and costs of provision that is needed for temporary cover for therapy services.
My Department is also currently undertaking a review of speech & language therapy services in the form of the Regional Speech and Language Therapy Taskforce. This group will propose future workforce planning arrangements, which take account of gaps in provision. It will also identify issues, relating to current working arrangements and terms and conditions of employment, that impact on service provision.
The Taskforce will produce a report of its findings and recommendations by December 2007.
Cancer Consultants
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of women who are experiencing delays in accessing an appropriate consultant, following diagnosis of (i) breast cancer; (ii) ovarian cancer; and (iii) bowel cancer, due to lack of accessibility in rural areas, broken down by Health and Social Services Board area, in each of the last three years.
(AQW 1042/08)
Mr McGimpsey: Information on the waiting time between cancer diagnosis and a subsequent appointment with a consultant is not collected.
I have set the following Priority for Action targets for my Department relating to waiting times for cancer services, to be achieved by 31st March 2008:
- All breast cancer referrals deemed urgent according to regionally agreed guidelines for suspected breast cancer should be seen within 14 days of the receipt of the GP referral.
- By 31 March 2008, 98% of cancer patients will commence first definitive treatment within 31 days from the date of decision to treat.
- By 31 March 2008, 75% of cancer patients will commence first definitive treatment form the date of initial GP referral.
The waiting time from a cancer diagnosis to an appointment with an appropriate consultant thereafter, is not currently a Priority for Action target for my Department. Consequently, this information is not collected.
Regional Development
Mains Water Supply, James St, Coleraine
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of occasions upon which repair work has been carried out to the mains water supply pipe between numbers 1 and 37 James Street, Coleraine, in each of the last ten years.
(AQW 604/08)
The Minister for Regional Development (Mr Murphy): I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that, over the past ten years, 11 repairs have been carried out to the water mains in James Street. Details of the nature and number of the repairs in each of the years is tabled below.
Repair to: |
1997 |
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Burst Watermain |
1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | ||||||
Burst Service Pipe |
1 | 1 | 1 | |||||||
Valve Repair |
2 | |||||||||
Valve Replacement |
1 | |||||||||
Faulty Stopcock |
1 |
Planning Policy Statement 14
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the legal costs incurred by his department in respect of the judicial review on Planning Policy Statement 14: Sustainable Development in the Countryside.
(AQW 622/08)
Mr Murphy: I am presently unable to answer this question as the Court has yet to make its final decision including the award of costs. However I will write to the Member and provide the information once it becomes available.
Disabled Parking Bays
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of successful and unsuccessful applications for disabled parking bays, broken down by constituency and district council area, in 2005; 2006; and 2007, to date.
(AQW 651/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service does not maintain records of applications for disabled parking bays, broken down by constituency or by district council area.
However, in relation to AQW 651/08 the table below details the number of applications for disabled parking bays received by Roads Service, and those subsequently rejected, in the years 2002 to 2006.
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Applications for disabled parking facilities outside homes |
278 | 333 | 347 | 355 | 336 |
Rejected Applications |
180 | 208 | 218 | 198 | 187 |
Figures in respect of 2007 are not yet available.
Typically, the reasons why applications are rejected include:
- the applicant is not the driver of the vehicle;
- there are no significant parking problems in the area or the applicant has access to alternative off street parking; or
- the applicant is not a blue badge holder and, if under 65, not in receipt of higher rate of Disabled Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance.
With regard to AQW 652/08, the time taken to process an application for a disabled parking bay, depends on the circumstances of the individual application. I should explain that when an application is received, the availability of parking in the subject area is assessed by site visits at various times of the day. It normally takes about three weeks to complete an assessment and approval is then required from the PSNI before the legislative process, including local consultation, to authorise disabled parking facilities can begin. Subject to there being no objections, this process usually takes about six months to complete.
Disabled Parking Bays
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the current time taken from the date of application, to the installation of a disabled parking bay, broken down by constituency and district council area.
(AQW 652/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service does not maintain records of applications for disabled parking bays, broken down by constituency or by district council area.
However, in relation to AQW 651/08 the table below details the number of applications for disabled parking bays received by Roads Service, and those subsequently rejected, in the years 2002 to 2006.
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Applications for disabled parking facilities outside homes |
278 | 333 | 347 | 355 | 336 |
Rejected Applications |
180 | 208 | 218 | 198 | 187 |
Figures in respect of 2007 are not yet available.
Typically, the reasons why applications are rejected include:
- the applicant is not the driver of the vehicle;
- there are no significant parking problems in the area or the applicant has access to alternative off street parking; or
- the applicant is not a blue badge holder and, if under 65, not in receipt of higher rate of Disabled Living Allowance or Attendance Allowance.
With regard to AQW 652/08, the time taken to process an application for a disabled parking bay, depends on the circumstances of the individual application. I should explain that when an application is received, the availability of parking in the subject area is assessed by site visits at various times of the day. It normally takes about three weeks to complete an assessment and approval is then required from the PSNI before the legislative process, including local consultation, to authorise disabled parking facilities can begin. Subject to there being no objections, this process usually takes about six months to complete.
Park and Ride Facilities
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development to give a timescale within which the proposed Park and Ride facilities at Jordanstown will become operational; and to detail when Park and Ride facilities will be introduced at Greenisland Railway Station.
(AQW 659/08)
Mr Murphy: Translink are currently considering the feasibility of constructing a Park and Ride facility at Jordanstown before deciding if the project should proceed. Subject to completion of a satisfactory economic appraisal, Translink hope to complete work to provide Park and Ride facilities at Greenisland by August 2008.
Road Safety
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development to give a timescale within which a scheme will be brought forward to address road safety issues at the junction of the Doagh Road and Carnmoney Road North; and what progress has been made toward initiating an improvement scheme at the nearby Doagh Road/B90 junction at Mossley railway bridge.
(AQW 662/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised me that the detailed traffic modelling of the road junctions at Doagh Road/Carnmoney Road North and Doagh Road/B90 Old Lodge Row in Newtownabbey, is now complete. Roads Service considers that the provision of traffic signals would be the most appropriate form of junction improvement to address the problems being experienced at both junctions.
However, as with all road schemes, these must be prioritised in order to ensure the most urgent and best value for money schemes are progressed. These schemes will have to compete for priority with all other schemes in Roads Service’s Eastern Divisional area and progress is subject to the availability of the necessary lands and finances.
You may be aware that, earlier this year, a planning application was lodged at the adjacent Global Point/Ballyhenry industrial development site. A Transport Assessment for the site is currently being considered and early indications are that alterations to a number of junctions on the existing road network (including the Doagh Road / Carnmoney Road North and Doagh Road / B90 Old Lodge Row junctions) will be required to mitigate the impact of this development.
While discussions with the developer are continuing, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the timescale for improvements at these junctions. I have therefore asked the Divisional Roads Manager to advise you of the outcome, once the discussions have concluded.
Erection of Illegal Signs
Mr A Easton asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to introduce additional legislation to prevent estate agents from erecting signs on lamp posts and telegraph poles.
(AQW 663/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service would acknowledge that the placing/erection of illegal signs is a problem and endeavours to keep Departmental property free from illegal signage. However, dealing with illegal signs erected on telegraph poles is the responsibility of the appropriate utility operator, for example Northern Ireland Electricity or British Telecom.
Under Article 87 of the Roads (NI) Order 1993, Roads Service can serve a notice on the owner of an illegal sign, requesting its immediate removal from Departmental property. Failure to comply with a notice may result in Roads Service removing the illegal sign and recovering any reasonably incurred expenses from the offender.
Roads Service considers that its existing legislative powers are adequate and further legislation is not necessary. Indeed, there are several prosecutions pending against a number of estate agents who continue to offend.
Roads Maintenance
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will explain the reasons why his department's expenditure on roads maintenance in 2007/08 will fall to £109 million, which is £5 million less than the expenditure in 2006/07, and £12 million less than the expenditure in 2005/06.
(AQW 670/08)
Mr Murphy: In relation to AQW 670/08, my response to your earlier Assembly Question (AQW 323/08) set out the total expenditure incurred by my Department’s Roads Service on maintenance activities in 2005/06 and 2006/07, which was £121 million and £114 million respectively. This reflects the final financial year-end position for both these years. However, the budget figure of £109 million for 2007/08 reflects the opening budget position and this amount will be subject to amendment at in-year monitoring rounds during the course of the 2007/08 financial year.
With regard to AQW 671/08, approximately 27% of the total expenditure on maintenance activities was spent in the Greater Belfast Area in the 2005/06 and the 2006/07 financial years, as detailed in the table below.
2005/06 £000’s |
2006/07 £000’s |
|
|---|---|---|
Greater Belfast Area |
33,000 | 31,000 |
Total for the North |
121,000 | 114,000 |
Percentage |
27% | 27% |
Maintenance expenditure includes all maintenance costs, for example, structural maintenance (which includes resurfacing, reconstruction, surface dressing, patching etc.), routine maintenance (grass cutting, gully emptying and environmental work), traffic management, street lighting and car park maintenance costs.
In distributing the resources available for road maintenance, allocations are made to the four Roads Service Divisions on the basis of need, using a range of weighted indicators tailored to each maintenance activity. The Divisions also use these indicators when apportioning across district council areas to ensure, as far as possible, an equitable distribution of funds.
Roads Maintenance
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will make a statement outlining the justification for spending approximately 25% of his department's budget for roads maintenance in 2005/06, and approximately 30% of the 2006/07 budget, on roads in the Greater Belfast area.
(AQW 671/08)
Mr Murphy: In relation to AQW 670/08, my response to your earlier Assembly Question (AQW 323/08) set out the total expenditure incurred by my Department’s Roads Service on maintenance activities in 2005/06 and 2006/07, which was £121 million and £114 million respectively. This reflects the final financial year-end position for both these years. However, the budget figure of £109 million for 2007/08 reflects the opening budget position and this amount will be subject to amendment at in-year monitoring rounds during the course of the 2007/08 financial year.
With regard to AQW 671/08, approximately 27% of the total expenditure on maintenance activities was spent in the Greater Belfast Area in the 2005/06 and the 2006/07 financial years, as detailed in the table below.
2005/06 £000’s |
2006/07 £000’s |
|
|---|---|---|
Greater Belfast Area |
33,000 | 31,000 |
Total for the North |
121,000 | 114,000 |
Percentage |
27% | 27% |
Maintenance expenditure includes all maintenance costs, for example, structural maintenance (which includes resurfacing, reconstruction, surface dressing, patching etc.), routine maintenance (grass cutting, gully emptying and environmental work), traffic management, street lighting and car park maintenance costs.
In distributing the resources available for road maintenance, allocations are made to the four Roads Service Divisions on the basis of need, using a range of weighted indicators tailored to each maintenance activity. The Divisions also use these indicators when apportioning across district council areas to ensure, as far as possible, an equitable distribution of funds.
Regional Development Strategy
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development if he can confirm that Northern Ireland's road and water infrastructure is overloaded, particularly in relation to the number of apartment blocks being built; and whether or not this issue will be addressed as part of the review of the Regional Development Strategy.
(AQW 688/08)
Mr Murphy: The Regional Development Strategy (RDS) provides an important planning framework for tackling the deficiencies in our infrastructure and helping the overall development of our economy and society. The Strategy sends strong signals to all infrastructure providers about the future pattern of development. The first 5 year review of the RDS, which is now being finalised, will give increased emphasis to the need for the provision of necessary infrastructure to support housing development.
The impacts of any development proposals on the public road network and water infrastructure are important material considerations in relation to the determination of individual planning applications. Planning Service consults with DRD Roads Service and Northern Ireland Water (NIW) to ensure that any necessary upgrading of roads and water infrastructure is achieved through the planning process. Proposals which would adversely impact on road safety or damage the environment in terms of inadequate waste water disposal are unlikely to be approved if satisfactory solutions cannot be achieved.
In considering the impact of development proposals, including apartments, Roads Service advises on the appropriate standards and any required road improvements. Where appropriate, developers will be asked to prepare a detailed Transport Assessment, which must consider all modes of transport, with emphasis on walking, cycling and public transport.
NIW acknowledges that parts of the sewerage network across Northern Ireland need to be upgraded to ensure that the capacity is adequate to cater for development and to meet stringent environmental standards. A major programme of Drainage Area Studies is being undertaken to identify any improvements/upgrades required and NIW is committed to the implementation of the recommendations.
Regarding the impact of new apartment blocks on the sewerage system, because NIW requires all new development and re-development to be served by separate foul and rainwater sewers, any additional foul discharge from development does not significantly increase the risk of sewer overload.
NIW has a high level Water Resource Strategy covering the period from 2002 – 2030 which addresses the key issues of improving water quality in line with European legislation and developing the water supply to meet increasing demand.
Traffic Management Scheme in Waterfoot, Co. Antrim
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the progress made by Roads Service in relation to proposals for a traffic management scheme in Waterfoot, Co. Antrim.
(AQW 690/08)
Mr Murphy: Firstly, in relation to AQW 690/08, following discussions with local representatives, a number of options have been drawn up for the provision of lay-bys in Main Street, Waterfoot. These lay-bys would reduce the parking on the carriageway, thereby assisting through traffic and helping to relieve traffic congestion. My Department’s Roads Service intends to put proposals to local representatives and frontagers shortly, in order to seek their views. Depending on the outcome, Roads Service intends to carry out this scheme during the current financial year.
Secondly, in relation to AQW 691/08, the Shore Road, Cushendall was assessed for traffic calming measures in May 2006. This assessment indicated that a scheme could not be afforded a high priority at that time, when compared with other sites. A further assessment was carried out in January 2007, which suggested that the need for suitable measures had increased slightly. Towards the end of 2007 consideration will be given to the inclusion of a scheme in the programme for 2008/2009. However, as always, it would have to compete with many other requests.
With regard to AQW 692/08, Roads Service continually monitors traffic and road safety, as well as other traffic management issues, throughout North Antrim and other areas, and considers proposals and requests for various measures. Roads Service acknowledges that congestion in rural villages in North Antrim, particularly those on the signed Causeway Coastal Route, is an increasing problem. This congestion is usually related to parking issues. Decriminalised parking enforcement in the area, which has been in operation for nearly one year, is currently being reviewed in terms of the level of enforcement.
Roads Service intends to provide gateways at Ballintoy as a traffic calming measure and consideration is currently being given to requests for further gateways and other traffic calming measures. Their priority for inclusion in the 2008/2009 programme will be determined later this year.
In conjunction with Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Sustrans, a Rural Schools project will be introduced at St Mary’s Primary School in Cushendall. This will introduce Safer Routes to Schools measures at the primary school, to enhance safety and encourage the use of more sustainable and healthier means of travel.
Traffic Calming Measures on the Shore Road, Cushendall
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the progress made by Roads Service in relation to its assessment of the need for traffic calming measures on the Shore Road, Cushendall; and on the proposals to widen the footpath at this location.
(AQW 691/08)
Mr Murphy: Firstly, in relation to AQW 690/08, following discussions with local representatives, a number of options have been drawn up for the provision of lay-bys in Main Street, Waterfoot. These lay-bys would reduce the parking on the carriageway, thereby assisting through traffic and helping to relieve traffic congestion. My Department’s Roads Service intends to put proposals to local representatives and frontagers shortly, in order to seek their views. Depending on the outcome, Roads Service intends to carry out this scheme during the current financial year.
Secondly, in relation to AQW 691/08, the Shore Road, Cushendall was assessed for traffic calming measures in May 2006. This assessment indicated that a scheme could not be afforded a high priority at that time, when compared with other sites. A further assessment was carried out in January 2007, which suggested that the need for suitable measures had increased slightly. Towards the end of 2007 consideration will be given to the inclusion of a scheme in the programme for 2008/2009. However, as always, it would have to compete with many other requests.
With regard to AQW 692/08, Roads Service continually monitors traffic and road safety, as well as other traffic management issues, throughout North Antrim and other areas, and considers proposals and requests for various measures. Roads Service acknowledges that congestion in rural villages in North Antrim, particularly those on the signed Causeway Coastal Route, is an increasing problem. This congestion is usually related to parking issues. Decriminalised parking enforcement in the area, which has been in operation for nearly one year, is currently being reviewed in terms of the level of enforcement.
Roads Service intends to provide gateways at Ballintoy as a traffic calming measure and consideration is currently being given to requests for further gateways and other traffic calming measures. Their priority for inclusion in the 2008/2009 programme will be determined later this year.
In conjunction with Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Sustrans, a Rural Schools project will be introduced at St Mary’s Primary School in Cushendall. This will introduce Safer Routes to Schools measures at the primary school, to enhance safety and encourage the use of more sustainable and healthier means of travel.
Traffic Management
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to provide better traffic management for all rural villages in the North Antrim area.
(AQW 692/08)
Mr Murphy: Firstly, in relation to AQW 690/08, following discussions with local representatives, a number of options have been drawn up for the provision of lay-bys in Main Street, Waterfoot. These lay-bys would reduce the parking on the carriageway, thereby assisting through traffic and helping to relieve traffic congestion. My Department’s Roads Service intends to put proposals to local representatives and frontagers shortly, in order to seek their views. Depending on the outcome, Roads Service intends to carry out this scheme during the current financial year.
Secondly, in relation to AQW 691/08, the Shore Road, Cushendall was assessed for traffic calming measures in May 2006. This assessment indicated that a scheme could not be afforded a high priority at that time, when compared with other sites. A further assessment was carried out in January 2007, which suggested that the need for suitable measures had increased slightly. Towards the end of 2007 consideration will be given to the inclusion of a scheme in the programme for 2008/2009. However, as always, it would have to compete with many other requests.
With regard to AQW 692/08, Roads Service continually monitors traffic and road safety, as well as other traffic management issues, throughout North Antrim and other areas, and considers proposals and requests for various measures. Roads Service acknowledges that congestion in rural villages in North Antrim, particularly those on the signed Causeway Coastal Route, is an increasing problem. This congestion is usually related to parking issues. Decriminalised parking enforcement in the area, which has been in operation for nearly one year, is currently being reviewed in terms of the level of enforcement.
Roads Service intends to provide gateways at Ballintoy as a traffic calming measure and consideration is currently being given to requests for further gateways and other traffic calming measures. Their priority for inclusion in the 2008/2009 programme will be determined later this year.
In conjunction with Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and Sustrans, a Rural Schools project will be introduced at St Mary’s Primary School in Cushendall. This will introduce Safer Routes to Schools measures at the primary school, to enhance safety and encourage the use of more sustainable and healthier means of travel.
Ulster Grand Prix
Lord Morrow asked the Minister for Regional Development what restrictions are placed on spectators seeking to attend Ulster Grand Prix motorcycle races at Dundrod.
(AQW 696/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised that The Road Races (NI) Order 1986 provides for charging into the race area at the Dundrod circuit during the Ulster Grand Prix. Roads Service and Department of Culture Arts and Leisure (DCAL) are not aware of any further restrictions placed on spectators during the Ulster Grand Prix. DCAL advises that these would be a matter, in the first instance, for the promoters of the event.
Motorcycle Races
Lord Morrow asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail which motorcycle races in Northern Ireland charge admission fees to spectators.
(AQW 699/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has confirmed that the Ulster Grand Prix is the only motorcycle race held on public roads in the North where an admission charge may be levied under the provisions of the Road Races (Northern Ireland) Order 1986. Roads Service is not aware of charges that may be levied in respect of motorcycle races held on private property.
Northern Ireland Water
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will make a statement on the withdrawal of business customer payment facilities from Northern Ireland Water's local offices, indicating the method used to redeploy the staff involved, and detailing to what offices these staff members have been relocated.
(AQW 710/08)
Mr Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that following the centralisation of customer billing at its Customer Relations Centre in Belfast, the range of customer payment methods was extended and all customer payment facilities at local offices were phased out. As the local office payment facilities were used by only a small number of customers, the effect of withdrawal of payment facilities on staff was minimal and redeployment was not required.
The extensive range of payment options available to Northern Ireland Water customers includes an on-line facility, direct debit, cheque, credit or debit card or at a local bank or post office.
All-Ireland Ferry Port
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development what is his assessment of the likely impact that the establishment of an all-Ireland ferry port at Bremore will have on the future viability of the Port of Larne.
(AQW 712/08)
Mr Murphy: I am aware that consideration is being given to development of port facilities at Bremore.
Ports in the North make their own assessments of the commercial opportunities and threats that they face. I would expect therefore that the privately-owned Port of Larne will make such an assessment in respect of any plans that emerge for Bremore.
Two-Way Traffic System on the Shimna Road, Newcastle
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will consider allocating funding to the installation of a two-way traffic system on the Shimna Road, Newcastle, Co. Down.
(AQW 726/08)
Mr Murphy: Officials from my Department’s Roads Service have advised that traffic flow and movement of traffic within the town of Newcastle was studied during the production of the Sub Regional Transport Plan 2015.
During this process, options for making Shimna Road a two-way flow were considered. However, due to a number of constraints, this would not only be a difficult and costly project to undertake but the emergent benefits would not be obvious. The cost of the work, including the acquisition of land, would be in the region of £1million which could not be seen as a justifiable use of Roads Service’s finite resources at this time.
Traffic Management
Mr T Gallagher asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the total cost of the new traffic management scheme at the former War Memorial site in Enniskillen; and to provide an assessment of the benefits of the scheme since it came into operation.
(AQW 732/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised me that the cost of the new traffic management scheme at the former war memorial site at Gaol Square, Enniskillen is not available to the Department as the scheme was provided by the developer of the new Asda retail outlet. The scheme was provided to mitigate the impact of the additional traffic generated by the new retail development.
Road Service’s early observations indicate that the new traffic management scheme is performing satisfactorily.
Provision of Services for People With Disabilities
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister for Regional Development to give his assessment of the service to people with disabilities, provided by Disability Action in Belfast and Bridge Accessible Transport in Derry/Londonderry.
(AQW 736/08)
Mr Murphy: Under my Department’s Transport Programme for People with Disabilities (TPPD), both Disability Action and Bridge Accessible Transport have service level agreements with the Department to provide accessible transport to people with reduced mobility. I am satisfied that both organizations meet the terms of the agreements.
Recently following a public tendering exercise, the Department introduced new door-to-door services under the TPPD in a further 27 urban areas. These services have a higher specification than the services currently in Belfast and Derry. To ensure consistency of standards across all urban areas, my Department will soon begin a tender process for the provision of door-to-door transport in Belfast and Derry, with a view to commencing the services in these two areas on 1 April 2008.
Road Resurfacing at Lansdowne Gardens, Newtownards
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline what plans he has to re-surface the road at Lansdowne Gardens in Newtownards; and to detail the basis upon which this decision was reached.
(AQW 746/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised me that the carriageway and footways in Lansdowne Gardens were surfaced a considerable number of years ago and their general condition has deteriorated, due to wear and tear, over the years. In addition, some damage was caused, particularly at the two junction entrances to Lansdowne Gardens, as a result of a recent NI Water scheme, which involved additional heavy vehicles using the street as a local diversion route. As such, Lansdowne Gardens would be considered a suitable location for general improvement works.
Unfortunately, there is insufficient finance available to enable this area to be included in any improvement works programme at present. However, the areas damaged by the NI Water scheme will be repaired and Lansdowne Gardens will be kept under review for inclusion in any future programme.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to confirm the amount of money he intends to bid for, with reference to capital and current outlay on the Belfast to Derry/Londonderry line, as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review process.
(AQW 754/08)
Mr Murphy: The bid which I made to the Comprehensive Spending Review included some £20.4 million capital for the Belfast to Derry line for the period 2008/09 to 2010/11.
No bid has been made for revenue funding on the line as further significant enhancement to services will not be possible until the capital investment has been made.
A2 Between Bangor and Belfast
Dr S Farry asked the Minister for Regional Development what steps he is taking to make the flow of traffic along the A2 between Bangor and Belfast more efficient.
(AQW 773/08)
Mr Murphy: I would refer the Member to my reply to his previous similar question AQW 741/07 dated 28 June 2007.
Short-term proposals, to control right turning movements from the A2 into Sullivan Place and Old Belfast Road, remain on course for completion during this financial year.
The proposed signalisation of the junction at Palace Barracks is a developer-led scheme. I am advised that necessary design work has not been progressed, as anticipated, and that the work may not, therefore, be completed this financial year, as previously indicated.
The longer-term aspirations of Roads Service, to improve this route, remain unchanged.
Traffic Calming
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to carry out a review of the provision of traffic calming measures, with particular reference to introducing more economical methods of traffic calming, given the large numbers of requests for this type of work to be carried out.
(AQW 776/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service advises that its traffic calming policy and procedures were last updated in 2003, following a Best Value Review of its road safety procedures. As a result, requests for traffic calming schemes are prioritised using a points scoring system based on the assessment of a number of road safety and local environmental factors. These include speed and volume of traffic, collision history and general road characteristics. Application of this practice ensures that the highest priority schemes are completed first.
With regard to the methods of traffic calming, I am sure you will appreciate that as police resources to ensure enforcement of speed limits are limited, it is essential that any engineering measures installed in residential areas, are effective at ensuring that road traffic travels at the appropriate speeds. These installations naturally require considerable investment of capital and resources.
Roads Service has experimented with advisory 20 mph zones that incorporate enhanced signs and road markings but do not use road humps or other physical measures. However, experience from here and elsewhere has shown that these, more economical schemes are only effective when they have the support of the entire local community and the roads on which the signs are placed do not carry any through traffic.
Roads Service advises that it has no plans to review the policy on the provision of traffic calming measures, however, I can assure you that Roads Safety is a key priority for Roads Service and that my officials are constantly researching methods to continually improve the safety of our roads.
Railway Spending
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the amount of money spent on capital projects on the railway line (i) between Derry/Londonderry and Coleraine; (ii) between Coleraine and Ballymena; and (iii) between Ballymena and Belfast, since 1 January 2005.
(AQW 780/08)
Mr Murphy: Translink has advised that the amount of expenditure incurred between 1 January 2005 to 30 September 2007 on capital projects on the Belfast to Derry line is as follows:
- £0.552 million between Derry and Coleraine;
- £1.170 million between Coleraine and Ballymena; and
- £0.773 million between Ballymena and Belfast.
This comes to a total of £2.495 million.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline the capital projects and other purposes upon which the funding allocated to his department as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review is to be spent.
(AQW 781/08)
Mr Murphy: No funding has been allocated to specific DRD projects and programmes as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review at this stage. The Executive’s Draft Budget 2007, which will include proposals for departmental allocations for the 3 years to 2010/11, is scheduled to be published for consultation during November and December 2007.
Belfast to Derry/Londonderry Railway Line
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of speed restrictions that are in place on the Belfast to Derry/Londonderry railway line, indicating their locations, respective speed limits and the length of time they have been in place.
(AQW 782/08)
Mr Murphy: The general line speed on the Belfast to Derry/Londonderry has been downgraded from 70mph to 60mph.
There is also a permanent speed restriction of 40mph for 4 miles near Ballymoney.
The remaining speed restrictions are of a temporary nature and number 9 in total. The following table details these temporary speed restrictions.
Location |
Date imposed |
Length (miles) |
Speed (mph) |
Causation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lisahally | 24/9/07 | 1.0 | 30 | Poor top and line due to deteriorated formation (wet beds) |
| Balnamore | 3/9/07 | 0.5 | 30 | Life expired formation which requires excavation, removal and replacement. |
| McConaghy’s Crossing | 3/9/07 | 0.25 | 10 | Public road crossing. |
| Magherabeg | 14/8/07 | 0.25 | 50 | Work in progress on track alignment at switch and crossing units. |
| Glarryford | 31/7/07 | 0.25 | 20 | Poor top and line due to deteriorated ground/formation (wet beds). |
| Roe Bridge | 14/5/07 | 0.25 | 30 | Deteriorated formation, unable to hold alignment. |
| Ballyboyland | 12/3/07 | 1.0 | 20 | Life expired formation which requires excavation, removal and replacement. |
| Downhill | 22/2/06 | 0.25 | 30 | Poor alignment due to formation and track skeleton. |
| Limavady Junction | 28/11/05 | 0.25 | 20 | New track installed but bridge works required. |
Railway Spending
Mr M Durkan asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the locations on the rail network, and when, the £23.6 million railway line investment announced in December 2004, was spent.
(AQW 783/08)
Mr Murphy: In 2003, the Railways Review Group (RRG) was established to consider the immediate investment needs of the NIR network and in particular, those of the lines north of Ballymena and Whitehead. As a result of the RRG report, Ministers agreed to provide total funding of £23.6 million (£17.2 million of which was capital and £6.4 million revenue) over a 5 year period from 2005 to maintain services on these lines at their present levels and to prevent deterioration. Details of this expenditure programme are provided below.
|
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
2007/08 |
2008/09 |
2009/10 |
Total |
|||||
|
£'000 |
£'000 |
£'000 |
£'000 |
£'000 |
£'000 |
|||||
|
Whitehead to Larne Relay |
2,159 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2,159 |
||||
|
Fencing to prevent trespassing and vandalism |
95 |
219 |
315 |
300 |
300 |
1,229 |
||||
|
Sea Defences |
0 |
70 |
23 |
0 |
0 |
93 |
||||
|
Bridge work |
6 |
109 |
252 |
342 |
0 |
709 |
||||
|
Ballymena to Derry Track Life Extension |
0 |
84 |
1,228 |
3,000 |
7,719 |
12,031 |
||||
|
Ballymena to Derry - Insulated Joint Work |
0 |
85 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
85 |
||||
|
Train |
Protection |
Warning System |
0 |
252 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
252 |
||
|
Bann Bridge - Coleraine |
0 |
26 |
220 |
0 |
0 |
246 |
||||
|
Sundry minor capital projects |
29 |
18 |
225 |
124 |
0 |
396 |
||||
|
TOTAL ESTIMATED CAPITAL EXPENDITURE |
2,289 |
863 |
2,263 |
3,766 |
8,019 |
17,200 |
||||
|
TOTAL ESTIMATED REVENUE EXPENDITURE |
1,280 |
1,280 |
1,280 |
1,280 |
1,280 |
6,400 |
||||
The revenue funding of £6.4 million was allocated to enable Translink’s in-house maintenance teams to maintain and upkeep track sections of these lines on a day to day basis.
Linen Green Housing Development, Sion Mills
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will explain the reasons why Roads Service has permitted the developer of the Linen Green housing development, Melmount Road, Sion Mills, to create a bend in the main A5 road.
(AQW 784/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service officials have advised me that the "bend" at Melmount Road, Sion Mills, is the result of work to provide a new right turning lane to the entrance to the Linen Green development. A right turn lane at the entrance at this location was considered necessary for safety and traffic progression reasons. The proposal, which required widening on one side of the carriageway, was assessed and approved in accordance with Roads Service standards and construction has proceeded accordingly.
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr T Lunn asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail how good relations considerations have been taken into account within his department's bid, in relation to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 833/08)
Comprehensive Spending Review
Mr T Lunn asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail how the Deloitte Touche report, ‘The Cost of Division – A Shared Future Strategy’ is being taken into account within his department's approach to the current Northern Ireland Comprehensive Spending Review.
(AQW 834/08)
Mr Murphy: The ‘Cost of Division –A Shared Future Strategy’ has not yet been published. However the final draft indicates that the cost of division in terms of transport and infrastructure are relatively small.
The report has, therefore, not significantly influenced my department’s approach to the Comprehensive Spending Review.
Gortcorbies Climbing Lane
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to his answer to AQW 465/08, to detail the location at which the surplus material from the sister project on the A37 Coleraine to Limavady Road was disposed.
(AQW 852/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised me that the A37 Springwell Climbing Lane scheme, completed in 2004, generated approximately 40,000 m3 of surplus material. All of this material was removed to the council tip at Macosquin (about five miles from site) for use as capping material over the dump.
Traffic Calming at Strangford Heights, Newtownards
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the estimated start date for the construction of traffic calming measures at Strangford Heights, Newtownards.
(AQW 858/08)
Mr Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised me that the Strangford Heights traffic calming scheme is included in the current two-year programme for Ards.
The consultation period is under way, and subject to no objections being received, it is expected that work will commence early in 2008/09.
Department Underspend
Mr G Savage asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail his department's projected underspend for this financial year.
(AQW 964/08)
Mr Murphy: My department is not currently projecting an underspend for 2007/08.
Social Development
Living Over the Shop Scheme
Mr R Beggs asked the Minister for Social Development to give a timescale within which she will announce the additional town centres that have been successful in their applications to the Living Over the Shop Scheme.
(AQW 611/08)
The Minister for Social Development (Ms Ritchie): The Northern Ireland Housing Executive initiated the application process in February 2007 and nine submissions had been lodged by the closing date of 31st July 2007. These applications are currently being evaluated and it is envisaged that up to five out of the nine submissions will be recommended for 2008 Town Centre Living Initiative Area status. Each Council Chief Executive will be advised of the successful applicants following the Housing Executive Board Meeting on 28 November. The 2008 status becomes active on 1st January 2008 for those successful settlements.
Housing Executive
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister for Social Development to detail, for each of the last five years, the amount spent by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive on (i) internal improvements; and (ii) external maintenance schemes, for housing stock in each of the 36 areas that comprise the Coleraine Borough Council area.
(AQW 643/08)
Ms Ritchie: The information is not readily available in the form requested. I have however set out in the table below expenditure on internal and external improvement schemes to Northern Ireland Housing Executive stock within the administrative area covered by its Coleraine District Office.
2002/03
|
2003/04
|
2004/05
|
2005/06
|
2006/07
|
Total
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
£k |
£k |
£k |
£k |
£k |
£k |
|
| Internal Improvements* | 2094 | 3727 | 3146 | 3801 | 4792 | 17560 |
| External Maintenance** | 1349 | 2125 | 648 | 281 | 1250 | 5653 |
Details of the individual schemes funded have been placed in the Library.
* Internal Improvements include heating replacement schemes, kitchen replacement schemes, and multi element improvement schemes.
** External Maintenance relates to external cyclic maintenance schemes, involving painting and general repairs to the exterior fabric of dwellings.
Construction of Houses, Armagh City
Mr C Boylan asked the Minister for Social Development if she will confirm that her department is actively supporting the construction of 32 houses and associated single-person dwellings in Armagh city, as proposed by the Housing Executive's southern area management team in Craigavon.
(AQW 716/08)
Ms Ritchie: Two schemes at Mullacreevie containing a total of 32 units of general needs accommodation are already included in the published Social Housing Development Programme, as is a scheme of 12 units for the elderly at Ballynahonemore. A need has been identified for 16 units for singles and Housing Associations are working to identify a suitable site. Sites are also being sought in other areas of the Armagh district where need has been identified by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
Child Support Agency
Mr S Hamilton asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the latest available figures for money lost through fraud and error by the Child Support Agency in Northern Ireland, compared with the latest available figures for the Child Support Agency in Great Britain.
(AQW 721/08)
Ms Ritchie: During 2006/2007, the Northern Ireland Child Support Agency Investigation Service dealt with 620 referrals. The monetary impact of fraud investigations on Child Maintenance Assessments in 2006/2007 was £72,753.20.
In 2006/2007 twelve cases were forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions and eight convictions secured.
Comparative data is not available for other United Kingdom regions.
Bonfires
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Social Development if she will authorise the Housing Executive to develop a consistent policy in relation to bonfires on its property.
(AQW 724/08)
Ms Ritchie: The management of bonfires is an interagency issue with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive working in partnership with the PSNI, Fire Service, Councils and local communities.
The Housing Executive adopts a good relations and community led approach to best manage and reduce the number of bonfires and decrease the cost of reinstating sites. Local bonfire management initiatives are monitored by the Housing Executive which is charged with translating its good relations duties under Section 75 (part 2) and community relations policy into actions on the ground through a partnership approach.
The approach to dealing with bonfires aims to:
- reduce the risk to the environment;
- develop a partnership approach which allows the agencies involved to impact on the bonfire issue in a cohesive manner;
- develop a graduated response to bonfires which involves consultation, shared understanding, negotiation and if necessary proportionate and legal use of enforcement methods; and
- promote a shared, inclusive community celebration.
Social Housing
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Social Development what plans she has to provide more social housing in the Ballymena Borough Council area; and to detail (i) the timescale for this; and (ii) the areas in which the increased provision will be located.
(AQW 747/08)
Ms Ritchie: During 2008/09, 12 general needs units are planned to go on site at Garvaghy Road, Portglenone. Eighteen general needs units are programmed to go on site in 2009/10 at Tobar Park, Cullybackey. Provision has been made in the programme for 20 general units in Broughshane but a site has yet to be identified and acquired. The programme for 2010/11 – 2011/12 makes provision for a further 58 general needs units but sites have yet to be identified and acquired for some of these.
An interest has been expressed in a portion of the MOD site at St Patrick’s Barracks, Ballymena for the development of affordable/social housing units.
In addition to the schemes formally identified within the programme, Housing Associations have registered an interest in a further 12 sites within Ballymena Council area and work is underway to determine the feasibility of developing these sites with a view to acquisition.
Social Housing
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Social Development what plans she has to provide more social housing in the Ballymoney Borough Council area; and to detail (i) the timescale for this; and (ii) the areas in which the increased provision will be located.
(AQW 749/08)
Ms Ritchie: During 2008/09, 8 general needs units are planned to go on site at Church Road, Rasharkin. The Social Housing Development Programme for 2010/11 – 2011/12 makes provision for a further 27 general needs units but sites have yet to be identified and acquired for some of these.
In addition to the schemes formally identified within the programme, Housing Associations have registered an interest in a further 5 sites within Ballymoney Council area and work is underway to determine the feasibility of developing these sites with a view to acquisition.
Housing Associations are actively seeking sites in areas where housing need has been identified and the Housing Executive is continually reviewing its own land holdings and working with others to try to identify suitable development opportunities.
Social Housing
Mr D O'Loan asked the Minister for Social Development what plans she has to provide more social housing in the Moyle District Council area; and to detail (i) the timescale for this; and (ii) the areas in which the increased provision will be located.
(AQW 750/08)
Ms Ritchie: During 2007/08 two properties in Ballycastle will be acquired and added to the social housing stock. A further scheme for 10 general needs units is planned for 2008/09. The programme for 2009/10 – 2011/12 makes provision for a further 58 general needs units but sites have yet to be identified and acquired for some of these.
Securing land for housing is a particular issue within some areas of Ballycastle District. Housing Associations are actively seeking sites in areas where housing need has been identified and the Housing Executive is continually reviewing its own land holdings and working with others to try to identify suitable development opportunities.
Homeless in South Down
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of people in South Down who are declared homeless.
(AQW 1010/08)
Ms Ritchie: The numbers of applicants accepted as statutorily homeless by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and still appearing on the waiting list at 30 September 2007 for accommodation in the South Down area are as follows:
Downpatrick 358
Banbridge 10
Newry 316
TOTAL 684
Housing Executive Waiting List
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of people on the Northern Ireland Housing Executive waiting list, in the South Down area.
(AQW 1011/08)
Ms Ritchie: At 31 March 2007 there were 2,449 applicants on the waiting list in the South Down area. Of these 1,463 had more than 30 points and are therefore deemed to be in housing stress.
Assembly Commission
Wi-Fi Technology
Mr J Shannon asked the Assembly Commission what decisions it has taken regarding the installation of wi-fi technology in Parliament Buildings.
(AQW 684/08)
The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr Coulter): In February 2007 the Commission for the Transitional Assembly approved to Award of Contract stage a project to update ageing network equipment in Parliament Buildings. The project was to provide additional network capacity for the Assembly for the next four years, giving enhanced security measures, wireless networking and allowing for future enhancements such as digital telephony and Hansard digital audio. In particular the wireless network facilities were requested by Members and guests in Parliament Buildings including the various political correspondents.
At the NI Assembly Commission meeting of the 9th July 2007 approval was given for the Senior Management Team to continue the procurement process and award of contract on behalf of the Commission during the summer recess. The contract was awarded on the 30th July 2007.
An interim wireless network was installed in Parliament Buildings in the middle of September 2007, to be replaced by the final solution by the end of October 2007.
Electricity Costs in Parliament Buildings
Mr L Cree asked the Assembly Commission to detail the amount spent on electricity for Parliament Buildings, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 853/08)
The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr Coulter): The following is a breakdown of cost spent on electricity for the last five years:
| Year | £ |
|---|---|
| 2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 |
140,367.42 129.353.11 127,564.42 99,624.16 146,547.64 |
| Total | 643,456.75 |
The decrease in cost during the years 2003/2006 was due to the reduction of the number of building users. However the Assembly Commission is actively seeking to reduce their electricity usage as part of their overall energy management. Guidance is issued to building users to remind them of their responsibilities to assist in energy management and recycling.
CORRIGENDA
Written Answer Booklet of 12 October 2007
(Volume 24, No WA3)
In page WA126, col 2, replace the answer to question (AQW 325/08) with;
I can confirm that there were 69 Article 31 planning applications in the system on 8 May 2007, 1 of which was approved on 27 July 2007 (extension to foodstore at Knocknagoney) and 2 of which have since been withdrawn (proposed extension to landfill site, Gortin and foodstore/retail warehouse, Enniskillen). The dates these applications were received by Planning Service, as well as the dates they were declared Article 31, are detailed on the attached table.
There are a number of key factors which contribute to the timescales involved in the processing of an Article 31 application. The most important is the quality of the application and its supporting information. The vast majority of Article 31 applications because of the scale, nature and location of the proposal, are required to be accompanied by a significant amount of environmental information – information which is submitted in the form of an Environmental Statement. It is very often the case that the required environmental information is submitted long after an application has been submitted to Planning Service added to which further information may be required following consultation with environmental bodies. This has significant implications for timescales.
Another is the development plan process and, particularly, the issue of prematurity – which is applicable to a significant number of current Article 31 applications. At present, for example, a number of applications are awaiting the outcome of the Ards/Down Area Plan public inquiry and as a result have been in the process for some time.
The Strategic Projects Unit is aware of the need to bring long-standing applications to the decision stage and steps have been taken which should ensure that the number of such cases is significantly reduced in the coming months.
App Ref No |
Date Received |
Description |
Date declared Article 31 |
Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. A/2004/1251 | 03-Dec-04 | Erection of six storey building for office & ancillary uses on the bed of the river Foyle. Foyle embankment L'Derry. | 24-Mar-05 | No decision made as yet. |
| 2. U/2001/0243 | 04-May-01 | Construction of Housing Scheme along with Roads & associated site works & landscaping , Ross's Ave, Ballyclare. | 23-Aug-01 | No decision made as yet. |
| 3. R/2002/0971 | 05-Aug-02 | Continuation of use of land in accordance with planning permission R/1993/0400 without conditions 3 & 4. Bishopcourt, Ballyhornan. | 25-Nov-02 | No decision made as yet. |
| 4. X/1999/0842 | 08-Oct-99 | Residential Development Donaghadee Road, N’ards | 03-Dec-99 | No decision made as yet. |
| 5. Z/2003/2725 | 10-Nov-03 | Mixed Use Development Bridge End, Belfast. |
05-Mar-04 | No decision made as yet. |
| 6. F/2006/0131 | 09-May-06 | Regeneration of Former Magheramore Works & Quarry. Magheramore, Larne. | 10-Aug-06 | No decision made as yet. |
| 7. X/2000/0414 | 11-Apr-00 | Residential Development & provision for Link road Newtownards |
09-Jun-00 | No decision made as yet. |
| 8. U/2006/0377 | 11-Jul-06 | First phase of Relief Road. western edge of Ballyclare. |
31-Oct-06 | No decision made as yet. |
| 9. Z/2004/0329 | 12-Feb-04 | Brunswick ( Sirocco) Ltd Office, Buildings & Apartments Bridge End,Belfast | 07-Apr-04 | No decision made as yet. |
| 10. N/2007/0131 | 14-Feb-07 | Marlborough Retail Park Highfield Grove, Craigavon. |
04-Apr-07 | No decision made as yet. |
| 11. X/1999/0030 | 15-Jan-99 | Village Development between Bangor Rd & Donaghdee Rd, Newtownards. |
29-Mar-00 | No decision made as yet. |
| 12. Z/2004/1455 | 14-Jun-04 | NIHE Housing & Mixed development Hannahstown Hill, Belfast. |
04-Oct-04 | No decision made as yet. |
| 13. J/2006/0616 | 19-May-06 | Strategic mixed use development including employment park, leisure complex and hotel inc landscaping, Strabane. |
10-Aug-06 | No decision made as yet. |
| 14. X/2001/ 1118 | 20-Sep-01 | Housing Development at Movilla Road, Newtownards. |
15-Jan-02 | No decision made as yet. |
| 15. F/1999/0465 | 23-Dec-99 | Waterfront Leisure Development with Marina, hotel, restaurant & apartment. Larne |
17-Apr-00 | No decision made as yet. |
| 16. X/2001/0457 | 24-Apr-01 | Residential development Newtownards. |
25-Sep-01 | No decision made as yet |
| 17. E/2002/0065 | 25-Feb-02 | Giant’s Causeway World Heritage visitor & Study Centre , Bushmills. | 11-Apr-02 | No decision made as yet. |
| 18. T/1999/0376 | 29-Jun-99 | New Village settlement Clady Road, Dunadry. |
24-May-00 | No decision made as yet. |
| 19. Y/2006/0379 | 30-Jun-06 | Park and Ride Adjacent to Saintfield Road Belfast. |
26-Sep-06 | No decision made as yet. |
| 20. Z/2000/2178 | 05-Sep-00 | Comprehensive mixed-use development, Sirocco Works Belfast |
03-Nov-00 | No Decision made as yet |
| 21.Z/2006/2864 | 12-Dec-06 | Titanic Quarter residential Mixed-use development. Belfast. |
27-Mar-07 | No Decision made as yet *Minister announced her intention to approve this application on 2 October 2007 |
| 22. Z/1996/2070 | 01-Feb-96 | Proposed Incinerator & Storage of waste and sewage for production of Electricity McCaughey Road, Belfast. |
22-Apr-96 | No Decision made as yet |
| 23. A/1998/0451 | 03-Jul-98 | Proposed extension to restoration of landfill site Gortin |
22-Oct-98 | Application Withdrawn 24/07/2007 |
| 24. J/1994/0386 | 27-Oct-94 | Proposed landfill facility Moorlough Road, Artigarvan. |
13-Dec-94 | No Decision made as yet |
| 25. R/1996/0677 | 09-Aug-96 | Proposed animal incineration plant, Crossgar. | 01-Oct-96 | No Decision made as yet |
| 26. F/2001/007 | 10-Jan-01 | Proposed Landfill facility. Ballyrickard Road, Larne. |
01-May-01 | No Decision made as yet |
| 27. H/1997/0364 | 18-Jul-97 | Change of use from Quarry to refuse disposal / recycling facility, Knocklochrim Quarry. L'Derry. |
28-Oct-97 | No Decision made as yet |
| 28. Z/1997/2681 | 22-Aug-97 | Plant for the generation for electric power, Duncrue Street Belfast |
04-Dec-97 | No Decision made as yet |
| 29. T/2002/0020 | 16-Jan-02 | Change of Use from Quarry to a site for the disposal of refuse & waste landfilling LadyHill, Antrim |
24-May-02 | No Decision made as yet |
| 30. T/2001/0517 | 02-Jul-01 | Landfill site & Materials recovery. Craigmore Quarry Craigmore Rd, Randalstown |
02-Sep-02 | No Decision made as yet |
| 31. B/2005/0329 | 04-May-05 | Extension to Eden Quarry, Glenshane Road, Dungiven. |
08-Aug-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 32. F/2005/0044 | 10-Feb-05 | Extension to Parishagh & Demesne Quarry, Glenarm. | 13-Apr-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 33. X/2006/0302 | 23-Mar-06 | Extension to existing quarry, Moss Road, Ballygowan Co.Down |
06-Jul-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 34. B/2004/0862 | 23-Dec-04 | Extension to existing sand & gravel pit ( Murnees Sand pit) Dungiven |
13-Apr-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 35. L/20061397 | 25-Apr-06 | Variation of planning conditions to allow deepening of Slushill Quarry, Lisnakea. | 06-Apr-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 36. I/2004/1062 | 23-Sep-04 | Extension of existing quarry at Ballymagilly, Cookstown. | 21-Feb-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 37. Q/06/1075 | 07-Dec-06 | Superstore Bridgewater Park, Banbridge | 23-Mar-07 | No Decision made as yet |
| 38. Q/06/1074 | 01-Dec-06 | Warehouse Park Bridgewater park Banbridge |
23-Mar-07 | No Decision made as yet |
| 39. Z/03//2548 | 16-Oct-03 | New floodlit soccer pitches housing development retail & car parking Fortwilliam Roundabout Belfast |
25-Aug-04 | No Decision made as yet |
| 40. N/04/1170 | 01-Nov-04 | Food superstore with parking (Northway/Highfield Heights,Craigavon) |
17-Dec-04 | No Decision made as yet |
| 41. N/04/1314 | 06-Dec-04 | Food superstore Marlborough Retail Park Craigavon |
02-Feb-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 42. N/98/0458 | 06-Jul-98 | Retail development Shillingstons Site Portadown |
04-Sep-98 | No Decision made as yet |
| 43. L/04/1961 | 06-Oct-04 | Foodstore/Retail ware-house former abattoir site Enniskillen | 02-Dec-04 | Application Withdrawn 23/07/2007 |
| 44. J/05/0125 | 07-Feb-05 | Retail Development Strabane |
30-Mar-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 45. X/05/1156 | 07-Oct-05 | Retail Development Castlebawn, Newtownards. |
24-Nov-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 46. Z/02/0572 | 08-Mar-02 | Extension Castlecourt Shopping centre Belfast |
25-Jun-02 | No Decision made as yet |
| 47. Z/03/2727 | 10-Nov-03 | Major Retail Development Brigde end, Belfast. |
05-Mar-04 | No Decision made as yet |
| 48. U/05/0070 | 09-Feb-05 | Extension Abbeycentre Longwood rd, Newtownabbey |
06-Apr-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 49. A/07/0145 | 09-Feb-07 | Proposed redevelopment of existing Lisnagelvin Shopping centre Lisnagelvin Rd, L'Derry |
04-Apr-07 | No Decision made as yet |
| 50. S/06/0443 | 10-Apr-06 | Major mixed-use urban extension | 21-Jul-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 51. A/06/0180 | 24-Feb-06 | Retail foodstore Buncranan Rd, L'Derry |
19-Jan-07 | No Decision made as yet |
| 52. S/05/1556 | 11-Nov-05 | Tourist destination and retail garden centre restaurant, garden areas Car parking, landscaping Saintfield Rd, Belfast. |
19-Jul-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 53. Z /04/2377 | 12-Oct-04 | Mixed-used Development Smithfield Square North Belfast. | 31-Jan-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 54. N/96/0321 | 15-Apr-96 | Supermarket & Petrol filling station, Craigavon | 13-Jun-96 | No Decision made as yet |
| 55. N/05/0253 | 14-Mar-05 | Site for Foodstore (Marlborough Retail park) Alternative scheme to N/04/1314 Craigavon |
12-May-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 56. X/05/0653 | 17-May-05 | Shopping centre and associated multi storey car park | 30-Jun-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 57. A/04/0976 | 17-Sep-04 | Proposed food store car parking , Buncrana rd Templemore Rd, L'Derry. |
17-Nov-04 | No Decision made as yet |
| 58. X/04/1800 | 21-Dec-04 | Extension to existing Ards Shopping centre Newtownards. |
17-Feb-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 59. N/96/0138 | 23-Feb-96 | Retail development- food store/retail warehousing, Edenderry Portadown. |
29-Apr-96 | No Decision made as yet |
| 60. N/05/0288 | 23-Mar-05 | Foodstore at Edenderry, Portadown | 12-May-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 61. Z/04/2299 | 01-Oct-04 | Extension to existing food store Knocknagoney, Belfast | 17-Jan-05 | Approved 27/7/07 |
| 62. Z/06/2018 | 25-Aug-06 | Superstore Castlereagh Rd, Belfast | 24-Oct-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 63. Z/03/0437 | 25-Feb-03 | Mixed use development Alternative proposal to Z/00/0520, Royal Avenue& Donegall St, Belfast. |
16-Jun-03 | No Decision made as yet |
| 64. S/04/1757 | 10-Nov-04 | Outline application for retail development on Mckinstry Road Lisburn | 14-Mar-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 65. Z/04/2742 | 26-Nov-04 | Extension to existing Westwood Shopping Centre, Belfast | 5-Jan-05 | No Decision made as yet |
| 66. Y/05/0257 | 27-May-05 | Retail warehousing at Purdysburn Rd/Saintfield Rd Belfast |
26-Jan-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 67. Y/00/0704 | 30-Oct-00 | Comprehensive road improvement, Castlereagh Belfast. |
29-Dec-00 | No Decision made as yet |
| 68.T/06/0629 | 31-Jul-06 | Food superstore Ballymena Rd, Antrim. |
27-Sep-06 | No Decision made as yet |
| 69. Z/00/0520 | 25-Feb-00 | Retail, leisure, hotel and residential use development, Cathedral Way, Belfast |
28-Nov-00 | No Decision made as yet |
In page WA108, col 2, replace the answer to question (AQO 355/08) with;
I have considered the case made by the Ulster Farmers’ Union for the abolition of the Agricultural Wages Board and subsequently met with representatives of the Amalgamated Transport and General Workers’ Union and the Chairman of the Agricultural Wages Board to discuss the issue. In the absence of an alternative mechanism to protect the rights of agricultural employees I have decided not to abolish the Agricultural Wages Board.
To abolish the Agriculture Wages Board would place agricultural workers in the North of Ireland at a financial disadvantage when compared with agricultural workers in Britain. This is particularly important in the context of ensuring the rights and privileges of migrant workers and minority communities here are protected.