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 13 June 2008
Written Answers to Questions
Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister
Agriculture and Rural Development
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Education
Employment and Learning
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Environment
Finance and Personnel
Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Regional Development
Social Development
Assembly Commision
OFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER
Departmental Phone Calls
Mr O'Loan asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to the answer to AQW 4100/08, to outline the exact nature of (i) the discussion with; (ii) the guidance given to; and (iii) the response from, a junior Minister during his exchange with the Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, after the Department for Social Development reported telephone calls from the junior Minister's office to an adviser to the Minister for Social Development.
(AQW 7064/08)
The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness): As we indicated in the answer to AQW 4100/08, this was a private discussion in relation to Ministerial protocols. The matter was dealt with satisfactorily at that time.
Financial Cost of Division
Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the report of Deloitte and Touche into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide will be reflected within the forthcoming draft strategy for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration.
(AQW 7442/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The report by Deloitte and Touche into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide was an independent piece of research conducted and finalised under the previous administration.
We are totally committed to moving society forward and making a real difference to the lives of all our people. Our vision is for a future based on tolerance, equality, mutual respect and respect for the rule of law.
We are now at an advanced stage of development of the detailed proposals for a ‘Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration for a shared and better future’ which we signalled in the Programme for Government.
Our officials briefed the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister on the current stage of development of the Programme in early April.
This Programme will tackle issues affecting both the established communities as well as new arrivals. It will build on some of the excellent work which is already being done, particularly by district councils and community organisations, to address the challenges which local communities are facing. Action to tackle sectarianism, racism and intolerance will be at the core of these proposals.
We believe that by tackling the causes of division in our society, sectarianism and racism, that a reduction of consequential costs will follow.
Additional funding of almost £7.5m over the next 3 years from 2008/2011 have been provided; total investment will therefore be approximately £29m to meet the PSA target of a shared and better future for all.
Departmental Phone Numbers
Mr Hamilton asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, the Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7497/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister has had no 0845 or 0870 numbers operated by, or on behalf of, the Department in the last 3 years.
OFMDFM has no agencies.
Spending on Children
Mr Easton asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what action is being taken to reduce the gap in spending on children between Northern Ireland and other areas of the United Kingdom.
(AQW 7531/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: In pre-budget discussions, Junior Ministers urged Executive colleagues to ensure children and young people remained a priority across departments and to bid for resources to facilitate this.
An additional £26 million was allocated in the Budget to DE, DHSSPS and DCAL to facilitate the continuation of projects previously funded by the Children and Young People’s Funding Package in addition to a range of mainstream programmes.
A further £13 million was also made available for DE for children and youth services and OFMDFM secured £2.3 million in years 2 and 3 for play and exemplar projects.
There may also be opportunities throughout the budgetary period for departments to bid for additional money for children and young people through the in-year monitoring process.
Ministerial Sub-Group on Children and Young People
Ms S Ramsey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if the Ministerial Sub-group on Children and Young People plans to meet with the Commissioner for Children and Young People.
(AQW 7534/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Commissioner for Children and Young People has been invited to meet with the Ministerial Sub Committee in September 2008.
Ministerial Sub-Group on Children and Young People
Ms S Ramsey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, following the Assembly debate on alcohol misuse, if the Ministerial Sub-group on Children and Young People has had discussions on this issue; and what Ministers have raised this issue with them.
(AQW 7535/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Minister for Social Development raised this issue at the Ministerial Sub-Committee meeting on 10 April 2008. It was recognised by Ministers at the meeting that issues around underage drinking are something which all departments need to consider.
At that meeting, the Ministerial Sub-Committee identified as one of its key priorities the provision for vulnerable young people. This priority covers a number of issues including that of underage drinking. A sub-group, led by DHSSPS officials and including officials from all relevant departments, is currently being established to take this forward. It was agreed that this group would consider the points from the Assembly debate on 1 April when they meet to progress work on this priority.
Strategic Investment Board
Mr Savage asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to list the 50+ infrastructure projects/programmes, with a capital value of some £5 billion; what the status is of each project; and what the proposed start and completion dates are for each project.
(AQW 7843/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Strategic Investment Board is currently working with departments to compile a detailed database to facilitate the monitoring of progress in delivering the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland 2008-2018. This database will include information on the timetable and status of each project.
It is expected that this work will be completed in the next few weeks and we will write to you with the information you have requested once it is available to us.
Northern Ireland Anti-Poverty Network
Mr McElduff asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if it will provide emergency financial support to the Northern Ireland Anti-Poverty Network to allow it to play its part within a wider strategy towards a poverty free society.
(AQO 3889/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: While the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister does not have provision within the current budget to provide core funding to organisations such as the Northern Ireland Anti-Poverty Network, officials from our Department have recently met with the organisation and advised as to other possible funding streams that may be available to it at this time.
Border People Website
Mr McCallister asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the borderpeople website has been promoted.
(AQO 3858/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The “border people” website provides easily accessible public service information for people who wish to move across the border in either direction to live, work and study. It was launched by the former First Minister, the deputy First Minister and Minister Dermot Ahern at the North South Ministerial Council meeting in Institutional format last October.
A marketing campaign to promote the website is now underway including:
- two recent public awareness events, one in Londonderry and one in Dublin;
- newspaper advertisements and editorials;
- publicity on local radio; and
- a poster, billboard and leaflet campaign targeting citizens advice centres, job and benefit offices, libraries, post offices, medical and dental clinics, key employers and other public places.
Shared Future Report and the Racial Equality Strategy
Mr P Ramsey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the programmes that were funded by the Shared Future Report and the Racial Equality Strategy in the 2007-08 financial year; and (ii) the outputs of these programmes.
(AQO 3843/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: During the financial year 2007-08, the Department provided two separate but linked streams of funding in support of good relations (both community and race relations) and racial equality.
Our Community Relations Unit provided grant-in-aid to the Community Relations Council of ₤3.289 million for good relations activities and research.
In addition, funding of ₤1.977 million was awarded to District Councils to implement good relations action plans. The proposals for funding contained within these action plans are based on actions which have been identified through good relations audits undertaken by each District Council. Local needs and local actions are prioritised to reflect the key issues within the respective area and outputs are measured accordingly.
Under its funding scheme for minority ethnic communities, the Department (through its Racial Equality Unit) also provided more than £500,000 to 14 different organisations. This fund supported work towards the promotion of good relations between people of different ethnic backgrounds.
The work that is supported by this funding has played a key part in the historic low levels of violence and tension that we have witnessed in recent years.
We have put in place “Good Relations indicators” to monitor the impact of this funding and the work that it supports. In the longer term, we will develop locally based good relations indicators. These will monitor good relations at the local level to evaluate the impact of the initiatives delivered in local neighbourhoods.
The updated Good Relations indicators which we published on 30 April 2008 show a welcome relative decrease in sectarianism but an increase in recorded racist incidents.
The Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration, which we intend to bring to the Committee shortly, will provide a robust and effective framework to tackle these scourges.
Under this Programme we will provide additional funding of ₤7.5 million over the 3 years from 2008 to 2011 to build on ongoing successes. Our total investment will be ₤29million to meet the PSA target of a shared and better future for all.
Planning Appeals Commission
Mr Storey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the impact that delays in determinations by the Planning Appeals Commission will have on the Executive's ability to deliver on its priorities.
(AQO 3901/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: We recognise that delays in determinations by the Planning Appeals Commission may have consequences for the Executive’s ability to deliver on its priorities. We accept that although the initial impact will be felt on an individual case by case basis, the cumulative effect may have implications for the Executive’s strategic priorities. Given the many and varied factors which will contribute to the successful achievement of the Executive’s priorities, it is difficult to quantify the specific impact of these delays.
In light of the strategic importance of an effective planning appeals system, we have committed to ensuring that the Planning Appeals Commission has the resources to enable it to address the current backlog of planning appeals cases. We have made significant additional financial resources available to enable the Chief Commissioner to address the backlog of appeals cases.
Programme for Government
Mr Moutray asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what measures have been put in place to ensure the delivery of targets set out for each Department in the Programme for Government.
(AQO 3900/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Programme for Government is framed under five priority areas which set out a range of key goals and commitments for the Executive collectively to deliver. These are in turn supported by a detailed framework of 23 cross-cutting Public Service Agreements (PSAs) which confirm the key actions and targets departments will take forward over the next three years in support of the Executive’s priorities.
The Executive recognises that many of the outcomes and targets set out in the PSA framework will only be achieved where departments work closely together and co-ordinate their approach. In light of this, departments have worked together over recent months to develop detailed Delivery Agreements for each PSA. These Delivery Agreements, to be published on departmental websites, set out in more detail how departments intend to ensure delivery of the targets and actions set out in the PSA framework and will provide the basis upon which the Executive will monitor and report on progress at departmental level.
Economic Investment Conference
Mr Campbell asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if it has any plans to evaluate the success of the recent Economic Investment Conference.
(AQO 3819/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The recent Economic Investment Conference was an enormous success. The Conference was attended by the Prime Minister, the Taoiseach, Special Envoy Ambassador Dobriansky and Ambassadors Tuttle and Foley, and 90 companies represented by over 140 business leaders.
At the Conference, NYSE Euronext and Cybersource announced new inward investments which have the potential to create over 120 new quality jobs. These, along with major investments announced by Bombardier and Independent News and Media added to the success. We are extremely encouraged by the positive reflections in the media on the immediate impact of the conference. Initial feedback from delegates is also very encouraging. We will be working hard over the coming months to capitalise on the success of the event.
Assessment of value for money can be undertaken once benefits in terms of inward investment projects are known, and this may take two to three years to come to fruition. However, Invest NI has a co-ordinated strategic follow-up plan in place to ensure that all delegates are contacted over the coming months to explore how they might benefit from considering Northern Ireland as an investment location. The follow up will consume both considerable time and resources involving Senior Management from Invest Northern Ireland and possibly some involvement also at Ministerial level.
The conference follow up program is comprehensive and is developed as an integral part of the planning for the conference. It is likely to run at least until the end of the year. The goal is to ensure that the positive effects of the conference are maximized to translate into tangible investment in the medium to longer term.
Young People Leaving Care
Mr Beggs asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, in light of the anti-poverty and social inclusion strategy, what policies are in place to provide support and assistance to young people leaving care.
(AQO 3855/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: In line with the requirements under section 28E of the Northern Ireland Act 1988 we will shortly be presenting proposals to the Executive Committee for the adoption of an overarching strategy to tackle Poverty and Social exclusion here.
The adopted strategy will seek to ensure that the needs of at risk groups, such as young people leaving care, continue to be addressed by way of Departments redirecting their efforts and resources towards those in greatest object need.
In Northern Ireland, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) has sought to develop policies to address the issues faced by young people leaving care. Policy approaches and corresponding service interventions are two-fold – early intervention aimed at providing best life chances to young people in care by improving the quality and range of intervention and support available whilst in care; and Strengthening the direct services and support available to young people as they make their journey from care and into adult life.
The Department (DHSSPS) has introduced a range of policies aimed at addressing the whole care continuum with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes and the life chances of young people through supporting better interventions earlier in young people's career, providing improved in care experiences and ensuring strengthened pathways through care and into after care.
In September 2005 the Children (Leaving Care) Act (NI) 2002 was commenced. It sought to improve the life chances of looked after young people as they make the transition to independent living. As part of the Act, all HSS Trusts had to provide a personal advisor and pathway plan for all eligible young people. At any one point in time there are 700 young people aged 16+ who have left care and who are entitled to continued support under the terms of the Act.
In keeping with the goal of a regional approach to the implementation of the Leaving Care Act, a series of theme based regional working groups, comprising of representatives from Trusts, DEL, NIHE, University/Academia and voluntary agencies were formulated and addressed and delivered on specific themes and protocols. These included
- the creation of a Good Practice Framework for Joint working between Trusts and NIHE to meet the accommodation and support needs of young people leaving care and homeless young people;
- a Good Practice guide addressing the career planning needs of young people leaving care agreed between the Careers Service NI and the Health and Social Care Trusts; and
- Guidance on transition planning for young people leaving care with a Disability is currently being finalised.
Although DHSSPS policy is based on the premise that young people ultimately have a choice, the overall policy is to reduce the numbers leaving care to live independently at age 16/17. A number of initiatives have already been put in place to facilitate this and ultimately improve the outcomes of Children and young people in care. These include
- Fostering Achievement Scheme – This Scheme was launched in September 2006. The scheme assists carers with funding to access equipment such as computers, a range of educational and personal development activities, and advice and training to enable carers to be effective first educators of the children in their care. Over 950 children in foster care have benefited from the scheme to date.
- Fostering Scheme - £6m investment in foster care to achieve an increase of 300 from the baseline set at 31 st March 2006 in the number of foster carers by March 2010. It includes initiatives to develop a regional approach to recruiting and training foster carers, more support workers for foster care placements and plans to significantly increase the numbers of young people fostered with extended family/family friends. By March 2008 179 additional foster carers has been achieved.
- Former Carer Scheme – this scheme provides financial support to carers who continue to support/accommodate young people 18-21. There are currently 150 young people participating in this scheme.
- Advocacy and Peer-mentoring – this regional scheme was set up in January 2007 to empower young people in care to engage actively in the process of ensuring the system works best in their interests. It is available to all looked after children and young people up to 25 years, in a wide range of settings, who are or who have been looked after by social services. The advocacy service provides independent and confidential information, advice, advocacy, representation, and support.
THE Department (DHSSPS) are enhancing their overall prospects and life chances, and at the same time reducing the current and future burden on our health, social care and court services. It is clear that our young care leavers need support for longer to achieve the transition to independence and adulthood. This is especially true for those who have experienced trauma and upset in their lives. By providing support and a secure family environment we will enhance the outcomes for young people, reduce their isolation and vulnerability and help them mature into adulthood with confidence and a reduced reliance on social services.
DHSSPS is currently in the process of introducing additional measures to further improve the transition process to adulthood which include
- providing more fee paid foster carers;
- improving the participation of young people in their care planning process;
- restructuring services based on transition teams – 16 years+; and
- progressing plans to introduce a pilot transition focussed type of residential care.
Over the next two years DHSSPS will be putting in place improved arrangements for young people involving:-
- preparation for adulthood;
- employment; and
- improved education support.
Executive Decisions
Mr G Robinson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister the number of occasions that the Executive has been unable to reach a decision by unanimous vote.
(AQO 3905/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Since the return of devolution in May 2007, votes have been triggered at meetings of the Executive Committee on seven occasions.
Executive Decisions
Mr Easton asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if the Executive unanimously approved (i) the Programme for Government; (ii) the Budget; and (iii) the Investment Strategy.
(AQO 3922/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: At its meeting of 21 January 2008, the Executive unanimously approved (i) the Programme for Government; (ii) the Budget; and (iii) the Investment Strategy.
Maze/Long Kesh Site
Mr Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if its accounting officer has made an assessment on whether the Maze/Long Kesh site has demonstrated value for money.
(AQO 3904/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The outline business case sets out options for the development of Maze/Long Kesh. The drivers for the regeneration of the former prison were wide, and related to social and economic regeneration and the symbolic transformation of the site. As a result the benefits recorded in the business case are largely non-monetary. For these reasons, and because the business case was not judged by economists to provide value for money on monetary benefits alone, the accounting officers of both OFMDFM and DCAL concluded, in agreement with DFP officials, that Ministers should consider the non-monetary benefits and make the decision whether or not to proceed to the next stage.
Community Relations Core and Project Funding Awards
Mr Simpson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how it monitors which communities are under-represented in community relations core and project funding awards.
(AQO 3902/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: We are committed to ensuring that we build a shared and better future for all our people.
It bears repeating that we regard racism, sectarianism and intolerance as blights which we must overcome wherever they appear. Decisions concerning core funding are based on published eligibility criteria, evaluations of the purpose for which funding is sought and the effectiveness of organisations involved. Funding is provided to all 26 District Councils to address issues at the local level to enable projects which have been identified and prioritised by them, to meet the needs of the local communities as assessed in their good relations audits.
Proposals for a Programme of Cohesion and Integration which we will bring forward shortly will be subject to the rigorous equality proofing standards including an Equality Impact Assessment. These proposals will include an increase in funding for District Councils’ action plans.
Programme for Government
Mr I McCrea asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if the Programme for Government makes any specific reference to the abolition of academic selection.
(AQO 3827/08)
Rt Hon P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Programme for Government is a high level strategic document that sets out the Executive’s priorities it does not detail the full range of programmes and policies which departments will take forward over the next three years.
The Programme for Government does not make any specific reference to academic selection. It does, however, stress the Executive’s commitment to educating and developing our young people to the highest possible standards, addressing significant inequalities in educational outcomes, taking forward key reform programmes in education, and investing in our schools infrastructure.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Salmon Netting Licences
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for the number and location of salmon netting licences over the last ten years.
(AQW 7419/08)
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): The Loughs Agency has provided the information attached at Annex A, which details the number of salmon netting licences issued in the Foyle Area from 1998 - 2007. They have advised that there are no figures available for 2008 at this stage.
Annex B details the number of salmon netting licences issued by the Fisheries Conservancy Board from 1998 – 2008. This information has been provided by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.
Annex A
Number of Salmon Netting Licences issued in the Foyle Area 1998-2007
Class of Licence |
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Drift Nets : |
20 |
19 |
18 |
18 |
17 |
18 |
13 |
15 |
19 |
-- |
Sea Only |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Drift Nets : |
79 |
79 |
76 |
76 |
78 |
77 |
69 |
71 |
81 |
-- |
Lough & Sea |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Drift Nets : |
11 |
9 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
6 |
6 |
7 |
7 |
18 |
Lough Only |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Draft Nets : |
48 |
42 |
46 |
42 |
43 |
50 |
51 |
57 |
49 |
10 |
River Foyle |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
River Roe |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fixed Engines |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
-- |
1 |
-- |
-- |
-- |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Annex B
Number of Salmon Netting Licences issued for the North Antrim area by the Fisheries Conservancy Board 1998 - 2008:
Year |
Bag Nets |
Fixed Tidal Draft Nets |
Drift nets for taking salmon at sea |
Total |
1998 |
12 |
3 |
7 |
22 |
1999 |
11 |
3 |
5 |
19 |
2000 |
10 |
4 |
7 |
21 |
2001 |
6 |
2 |
8 |
16 |
2002 |
4 |
0 |
6 |
10 |
2003 |
2 |
0 |
4 |
6 |
2004 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
4 |
2005 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
4 |
2006 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
4 |
2007 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
4 |
2008 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
4 |
Departmental Travel Expenses
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how much her Department has spent on travel expenses since devolution.
(AQW 7424/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Expenditure on travel for the Department (ie including Agencies) from the date of devolution (8 th May 2007) to the 30 th April 2008 amounted to £3,046,322.
Travel expenditure includes:
Mileage £2,480,826
Transport £196,015
(includes bus and rail fares, car parking and air fares within Britain and the North of Ireland)
Excess Fares £307,123
Foreign Travel £62,358
(includes all foreign travel costs – air fares, rail fares etc)
Fuel Costs for Fishermen
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the impact on farmers and fishermen of high costs of fuel, feed and fertilisers; and what action she is taking to address these issues.
(AQW 7470/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Rising fuel, feed and fertilizer prices are having a serious impact on all households in the North at present. The effect on farmers and fishermen in particular is significant. The increases are being driven by the steady rise in crude oil prices, which are outside the direct control of government. However, I am doing all that I can within my remit.
In relation to the current grain shortage and the particular challenges it poses for the intensive sector, I wrote to every supermarket in the North expressing my concern about returns at producer level given the rising cost of feed prices and am aware that there has been a subsequent rise in some retail prices. This hopefully provides an opportunity for increased returns to work back through the supply chain to the farm-gate price.
I support the action taken by the EU to address the grain shortage by fixing the set-aside rate at zero to release more land into cereal production. While the current market conditions continue, the growing of cereals should remain attractive and this should help to stabilise the grain market.
My Department continues to support the intensive production sector in every way it can. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) provides a comprehensive range of education and training programmes for producers and processors, and has designed a series of contextualised energy efficiency training programmes, the first of which was delivered in March/April of this year. Feedback from the 103 course participants was very positive and a further course is planned for the Autumn. The Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) supports the sector through research and development work, which provides an important science and expertise base to support industry development.
In relation to fertiliser prices, I am supporting investment by farmers to manage the storage and use of livestock slurry – not just to avoid water pollution, but also to realise the benefits of this natural alternative to increasingly expensive chemical fertiliser.
Fuel prices represent the single biggest operating cost for fishing. High fuel prices are not a temporary factor and will require a long term strategic plan to address the difficulties experienced by the industry. In the meantime I believe the measures that I announced on 28 April, to assist with the costs of vessel monitoring, flexible allocation of days at sea, and easing certain vessel licensing arrangements, as well as a willingness to provide funding for fuel saving technology will be useful.
You will be aware that I announced the establishment of a new Fisheries Forum and I would like to see the Forum achieve broad agreement on a strategic plan by the time the European Fisheries Fund opens for applications. I would expect that any strategic plan will need to include measures to promote fuel efficiency. Subject to early approval of the Operational Plan by the Commission, I expect the EFF to be open for applications by the end of October this year.
Departmental Telephone Numbers
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, her Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7521/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My Department has currently one 0845 number in operation under the DARD Registration Line pilot. The number is 0845 3044 544 and allows farmers in the Fermanagh area to register births and deaths of animals via the telephone. To date there has been no profit from the line.
Cycling on Forest Service Land
Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what her Department's policy is on cycling on Forest Service land; and what steps her Department has taken to promote cycling.
(AQW 7548/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The Forestry Strategy “A Strategy for Sustainability and Growth” published in 2006, outlines my Department’s policy for the development of recreational use of forests, including cycling. The strategy commits us to identify partnership opportunities with both private and public sector organisations to improve the quality and range of recreation provision available within in our forests.
Forest Service has operational family cycle trails at Castlearchdale, Gosford, and Castlewellan and has facilitated various bike events at many of its forests.
My officials in Forest Service continue to work with a number of stakeholders including, Northern Ireland Tourist Board, Environment and Heritage Service, District Councils and Countryside and Activities Network and representatives from mountain bike clubs, to explore opportunities for the future development of cycling in forests.
Departmental Correspondence with Linergy
Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail any correspondence that has taken place between her Department and Linergy in relation to (i) the current arrangements for the disposal of animal waste; and (ii) the proposals for the development of an anaerobic digester and thermal treatment plant for the disposal of animal waste, at Granville, Dungannon; and what grant aid her Department has offered for these projects.
(AQW 7754/08)
Ms M Gildernew: During 2007, DARD’s Animal Health and Welfare Branch entered into a series of formal written correspondence with Linergy regarding the successful approval of a Rendering Plant under the Animal By-Products Regulations (NI) 2003.
In 2005, my Department entered into formal written correspondence with Linergy, regarding an application to the Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity (PBSP) to support an anaerobic digester plant at the Granville site. Unfortunately this application was rejected.
In May 2006, the Department’s Policy Development Branch wrote to Mr Moore, Managing Director of Linergy, appraising him of the Department’s progress in the development of their renewable energy policy. Subsequently, Mr Moore received a copy of the DARD Renewable Energy Action Plan.
Over recent years, a number of meetings have been held with senior Department officials and representatives of Linergy in relation to the proposed anaerobic digester and thermal processor at the Granville site.
Single Farm Payment Appeals
Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many Single Farm Payment appeals were lodged with the Department in the last three years; and how many of these appeals were successful.
(AQW 7813/08)
Ms M Gildernew: From the introduction of Single Farm Payment in 2005 to date, 1584 requests for a Stage 1 review and 412 requests for Stage 2 reviews have been lodged with the Department.
The information on these cases is as follows:
Stage 1 – 2005 to date
Requests lodged |
Withdrawn/ received after deadline |
Processed |
Upheld in full |
Upheld in part |
Rejected
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1584 |
119 |
1514 |
194 |
64 |
1133 |
Stage 2 – 2005 to date
Requests lodged |
Withdrawn/ received after deadline |
Cases heard by Panel |
Upheld in full by Panel |
Upheld in part by Panel |
Rejected by Panel
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
412 |
34 |
267* |
49 |
14 |
184 |
* Of the 267 cases heard by the Panel, I or my predecessors have accepted 219 and rejected 28 of the Panel recommendations. 2 cases where the Panel rejected the applications have been upheld in part.
Bio-Fuels
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what incentives are being given to farmers to diversify into bio-fuels instead of grain production.
(AQW 7826/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Currently the growth of crops for energy is promoted by DARD under the EU Aid for Energy Crops Scheme. Aid in the region of 45 Euro’s per hectare per annum is payable for all crops which may be used in the production of energy, including liquid bio-fuels. There have been a small number of applicants in relation to growing of crops specifically for production of bio-diesel. However, the farm-gate price for cereals will make the growing of these crops a greater attraction to the arable sector than the growing of energy crops.
DARD has no other plans to introduce additional measures to support the growth of crops for use as liquid bio-fuels in the immediate future.
DARD fund a number of programmes to support the production of renewable energy these include :
- Financial support under the Woodland Grant Scheme, through the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007 – 2013 (NIRDP Axis 1), is provided for the establishment of Short Rotation Coppice (SRC) Willow.
- Under the Programme to Build Sustainable Prosperity (PBSP), the Energy from Biomass Infrastructure Development Scheme (EBIDS) has currently allocated funding for the drying, storage and harvesting of SRC Willow.
- Axis 1 and 3 of the NIRDP also include a number of measures which may be aimed at supporting renewable energy projects and energy efficient technologies.
My Department remains committed, through the DARD Renewable Action Plan to promoting the opportunities afforded by the development of renewable energy in the agri-food sector, forestry sector and wider rural economy in balanced and sustainable way.
Local Produce in Supermarkets
Mr Campbell asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she has had discussions with supermarkets based in Northern Ireland in relation to local produce and prices paid to suppliers.
(AQO 3821/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Since June last year, I have met with most of the major supermarket chains and I am continuing to do so. On each occasion, my priority has been to encourage the retailers to support the sustainability of all local supply chains, including the red meat sector, and to take account of rising input costs faced by producers and processors. I have also encouraged them to increase the amount of produce sourced from the North for their stores, both locally and in Britain.
In September 2007 I issued a letter to the local supermarkets, seeking their views on the increase in the price of feed and expressing my concern about the potential knock-on effects on producer margins. As pricing is a reserved matter I cannot interfere with normal market forces. However, I will continue to work with all agri-food industry interests including supermarkets, producers and processors to seek to achieve a better deal for farmers.
Most supermarkets in the North source significant quantities of our beef. While I welcome the announcement made by Sainsbury’s Supermarket to sell only locally sourced beef here, it should be noted that other retailers such as the Musgrave Group have been exclusively sourcing local beef for some time. It is my desire that the policies of Sainsbury and Musgrave’s will be followed by similar action on the part of their competitors.
Two of the strands identified in taking forward the strategy developed by the Red Meat Task Force were ‘engaging with core customers’ and ‘building strong supply chain relationships’. I believe that the Sainsbury’s announcement reflects the value of fully engaging with core customers and has achieved a positive outcome for our local famers and processors.
I am committed to helping farmers develop strong and profitable relationships with their supply-chain partners and my Department has been proactively facilitating such communication through initiatives like the supply-chain awareness programme.
International Year of the Potato
Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development why her Department did not put in place a special 2008 potato programme in the International Year of the Potato.
(AQO 3921/08)
Ms M Gildernew: In 2008, my Department plans to hold a special harvest-time event to tie in with the Year of the Potato. We will promote DARD services to the potato industry and invite the private sector to participate in the celebration of how versatile the potato is as a food item.
My Department also already has a substantial programme of support to the potato industry in place which covers the areas being promoted by the “Year of the Potato”. These include: the “Chip Initiative”, which aims at maximising the use of locally grown potato varieties in the fresh chip market. CAFRE also provides assistance to the potato sector through a variety of programmes, including: training courses for growers, such as “the Potato Challenge”; benchmarking for potato businesses; and the Knowledge and Technology Transfer programme, which encourages growers here to adopt innovative practices. These programmes are promoted through training events and open days. AFBI also, supports the potato sector through breeding and independent evaluation of new varieties, and monitoring of diseases and pests.
DARD continues to engage with industry representatives and is happy to assist in whatever way possible to promote the industry.
Tuberculosis Testing Programme
Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the reasons for the changes made to the tuberculosis testing programme; and why livestock owners wishing to have restrictions on their animals removed will have to arrange, and pay for, a private test.
(AQO 3823/08)
Ms M Gildernew: In the North, TB herd testing is carried out annually in accordance with EU legislation, and my Department has a system in place to ensure that when the annual TB test is overdue, herds are restricted until the herd test has been carried out. However, my Department has identified a gap in the system in respect of the testing of individual animals that may have missed an annual herd tests because, for example, they have moved between herds. At present, animals that have missed a herd test can move freely between farms, which is an issue because untested animals may represent a higher risk and may have more potential to spread disease.
To close this gap in TB testing in the North, my Department is making a technical adjustment to the testing programme to take effect from 5 July 2008. The adjustment will mean that from 5 July any individual animals that have not been tested for TB in the previous 15 months will be restricted from leaving the farm, except directly to immediate slaughter in the North, until they have been tested. Only the individual animal that has not been tested will be restricted, not the herd as a whole. These restrictions, will contain potential risk and reduce the risk of disease spread to other herds. The restrictions will be lifted from animals once a clear TB test has been completed.
There is no requirement on livestock owners to arrange and pay for a private test in order to have restrictions removed. The test can be completed as part of the next scheduled herd test, or alternatively, livestock owners who wish to have the restriction on an animal removed sooner may prefer to have the animal tested privately at their own expense.
Electronic Identification for Cattle and Sheep
Mrs O'Neill asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline her Department's response to the introduction of electronic identification for cattle and sheep.
(AQO 3916/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I warmly welcome the Industry led initiative for the electronic tagging of cattle. My officials sit on the Industry Working Group to provide technical advice and support. I have also assisted the industry by ensuring that the APHIS computer database is enhanced to help facilitate electronic identification for their cattle. The Working Group has made a case to my Department seeking financial assistance to support the move to electronic tagging of cattle later this year. We are currently considering the Industry Business Case.
Unlike electronic tagging of cattle which has no legislative basis, the need to electronically tag sheep by 31 December 2009 is enshrined in EU law. The requirement for individual traceability was agreed back in 2003, largely as a result of traceability problems associated with the 2001 Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak .
I raised the introduction of electronic tagging of sheep with my Ministerial colleagues in Dublin and Britain. All recognise both the need to secure effective traceability and the unique position of the North in protecting our valuable slaughter sheep trade to the South by maintaining broadly similar identification and movement systems. I have also discussed the matter with Commissioner Fischer Boel and others within the Commission. I am aware of recent developments in the European Parliament where the EU Agriculture Committee has called upon the Commission to rethink compulsory electronic tagging of sheep. I await the Commission’s response.
Rural Post Offices
Mrs McGill asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail her Department's efforts to secure retention of rural post offices.
(AQO 3911/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Although Post Offices are not a devolved matter, I share the concerns expressed by many MLAs, and by my Executive colleagues, about the impact the proposed closure of post offices will have on communities. My particular concern is of course the potential impact on rural communities.
Since the announcement on the proposed closures I have met with Postwatch NI, the consumer watchdog, who has been monitoring this process. My officials have also met with rural stakeholders who have been collating the concerns of rural communities.
I had met with Post Office Ltd last year to present my concerns, and I met them again last month. At that meeting I raised issues such as the dismay at the short consultation period; the impact of which will be that those “hard to reach” or vulnerable members of society, who are most likely to be affected by these changes, will not have had an opportunity to voice their concerns. I also raised issues surrounding the level of engagement with local communities, the level of research carried out to ascertain the social impact on the more vulnerable sections of society and the sustainability of the proposed outreach services. I will also be looking closely at the outcome of the planned six month review of the changes and they have impacted on rural communities.
Fuel Costs for Fishermen
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what discussions she has had with fishing organisations and bodies, since her statement to the Assembly, in relation to fuel costs for fishermen.
(AQO 3862/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I have had no discussions with the fishing industry since my statement to the Assembly on 28 April but my officials met with fishing industry representatives on 12 May to further discuss the issues arising from my statement and the support which is available to the industry. During my statement, I announced that I will be establishing a Fisheries Forum in which key stakeholders and the Department would work together to address the long-term needs of the fishing fleet, dealing particularly with the issue of how the €36 million available under the European Fisheries Fund can be used to tackle the problem of high fuel costs. I have agreed the remit and membership of this Forum and I expect its first meeting to take place in the near future. My Department has written to a wide range of stakeholders that have an interest in the fishing industry to invite their participation in the work of the Forum. I look forward to working with the Forum to ensure a profitable and sustainable future for our fishing industry.
Aquaculture and Marine Tourism in the Foyle and Carlingford Areas
Mr McCartney asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the opportunities for aquaculture and marine tourism in the Foyle and Carlingford areas.
(AQO 3908/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Part II of the Foyle and Carlingford Fisheries ( Northern Ireland) Order 2007 will provide the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission (FCILC) with powers to license and develop aquaculture within the Foyle and Carlingford Areas. The transfer of these powers to the FCILC will allow aquaculture operations within Lough Foyle to be licensed, through the Loughs Agency, for the first time: an important step in ensuring a transparently good standard of practice in relation to husbandry, hygiene, fish welfare, disease control and environmental impact. During the recent NSMC meeting in Aquaculture and Marine Sectoral format, the Loughs Agency presented its plans for aquaculture in these areas. I believe there is significant potential for developing this sector, which is already very valuable in both the Foyle and Carlingford areas.
At its meeting in Aquaculture and Marine Sectoral format on 21 November 2007, the NSMC approved the implementation of the Loughs Agency’s Marine Tourism Development Strategy for the period 2008 to 2013. The Strategy is estimated to cost of £13.64m / €20.35m, and an application for financial support has been made to the EU programme for Cross Border Territorial Co-operation. Funds are being sought also from other programmes including the International Fund and my Department’s Rural Development Programme. This Strategy will work through partnerships with local and regional authorities and private bodies, providing support for projects, developing access infrastructure, project development, skills training, marketing and communications activities. When implemented, this strategy should bring significant investment and regeneration of the Foyle and Carlingford Areas. In line with the Strategy, the Loughs Agency is also supporting a number of small-scale projects aimed at improving marine tourism and recreational fishing.
Funding Allocations for Council Clusters
Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the funding allocations for the 'council clusters' based on deprivation.
(AQO 3920/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My officials have now carried out the final calculations to allocate the first fifty million pounds of the rural development programme. The allocations have been calculated taking into account the highest areas of rural deprivation and the rural populations of each of the clusters.
The allocations are as follows:-
For the North East £6,211,991
For the North West £11,259,048
For Mid-Ulster £12,721,715
For the Craigavon Cluster £9,570,714
For the Down Cluster £6,592,695
For the Antrim Cluster £1,793,712
For the Lisburn Cluster £1,850,124
Members should note that this is only the initial allocations. Once all the local rural strategies have been received, checked and competitively assessed the remaining fifty million will be allocated. Realistically this will be more of an even spread and clusters can expect to receive a further six to seven million pounds.
Country of Origin Labelling on Food Products
Mr McGlone asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what progress she has made in having the country of origin labelled on food products.
(AQO 3822/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Primary responsibility for food labelling rests with the Food Standards Agency. However, my Department is responsible for the EU-wide Beef Labelling Regulations which require all operators in the supply chain down to retail level, but excluding food service, to label their beef with specified traceability and origin information. This includes the country, or countries, in which the animal was born, reared and slaughtered. These regulations are enforced by DARD inspectors in meat plants and by local authority Environmental Health Officers in retail outlets.
With regard to origin labelling of beef in the food service sector, I have not ruled out the introduction of legislation but I want to consider all of the options first. My Department is therefore working with industry representatives to develop a voluntary labelling pilot scheme involving origin labelling of beef in a number of local restaurants. The object of the pilot will be to identify potential problems and to optimise product specifications and labelling terms which are acceptable to industry and meaningful to consumers. The South has already introduced legislation in this area and officials are monitoring developments to see what lessons can be learned as it is becoming clear that there are practical difficulties surrounding enforcement. Extensive market research has also been carried out recently to determine consumer attitudes and preferences to origin labelling and local beef. The conclusions of this work along with feedback from the pilot scheme will provide an evidence base on which to take decisions on the best way forward for origin labelling of beef in the food service sector in the North.
Lisbon Treaty
Mr O'Dowd asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an assessment of the impact on agriculture of the Lisbon Treaty and the possible deal at the World Trade Organisation negotiations.
(AQO 3919/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Ratification of the Lisbon Treaty by all EU Member States will permit it to come into effect from 1 January 2009. The main consequence for agriculture will be that co-decision making powers are granted to the European Parliament in relation to future reforms (after 1 January 2009) to the Common Agricultural Policy (as well as the Common Fisheries Policy). This could mean that the decision making process will take longer, but it is not possible at this stage to say how the European Parliament might influence the direction of future EU agricultural policy.
The WTO agricultural negotiations are ongoing. W e need to know the full details of any final agreement before a full impact assessment can be made. However, my Department commissioned research that looked at the possible impact of earlier WTO proposals. From this research, we know that the magnitude of tariff cuts and the use of ‘sensitive products’ status will be key issues in determining the effects of a WTO deal on agriculture in the North. It is clear that there is a need to achieve a balanced outcome to the negotiations which will not have a disproportionate detrimental impact on agriculture and yield few tangible gains elsewhere. I have met with the Commissioner, Marian Fischer Boel, and have written to Hilary Benn MP, to express these concerns. It remains unclear if a WTO agreement will be reached in the near future and precisely what it might comprise.
Supermarkets Sourcing Local Beef
Mr Cree asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what efforts she has made to encourage other supermarkets to follow Sainsbury's example and source all their beef locally.
(AQO 3836/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Since June last year, I have met with most of the major supermarket chains and I am continuing to do so. On each occasion, my priority has been to encourage the retailers to support the sustainability of all local supply chains, including the red meat sector, and to take account of rising input costs faced by producers and processors. I have also encouraged them to increase the amount of produce sourced from the North for their stores, both locally and in Britain.
In September 2007 I issued a letter to the local supermarkets, seeking their views on the increase in the price of feed and expressing my concern about the potential knock-on effects on producer margins. As pricing is a reserved matter I cannot interfere with normal market forces. However, I will continue to work with all agri-food industry interests including supermarkets, producers and processors to seek to achieve a better deal for farmers.
Most supermarkets in the North source significant quantities of our beef. While I welcome the announcement made by Sainsbury’s Supermarket to sell only locally sourced beef here, it should be noted that other retailers such as the Musgrave Group have been exclusively sourcing local beef for some time. It is my desire that the policies of Sainsbury and Musgrave’s will be followed by similar action on the part of their competitors.
Two of the strands identified in taking forward the strategy developed by the Red Meat Task Force were ‘engaging with core customers’ and ‘building strong supply chain relationships’. I believe that the Sainsbury’s announcement reflects the value of fully engaging with core customers and has achieved a positive outcome for our local famers and processors.
I am committed to helping farmers develop strong and profitable relationships with their supply-chain partners and my Department has been proactively facilitating such communication through initiatives like the supply-chain awareness programme.
Responsibilty and Cost Sharing
Mr Boylan asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how she intends to take forward the issue of responsibility and cost sharing.
(AQO 3918/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I see the responsibility and cost sharing initiative which my Department is currently developing with industry as having the potential to transform the way in which future animal health and welfare policy is developed and implemented in the North of Ireland. Responsibility sharing will give those affected by animal health and welfare policies a very real say in how these policies are developed and implemented. This can only lead to better informed policy making and a greater buy-in from the industry.
Tough decisions will have to be made when sharing responsibility for animal health and welfare. With the threat of new diseases such as Bluetongue entering the North, we will have to look at how animal heath and welfare is funded in the future and how costs can best be shared between Government and Industry.
Over the past 5 - 6 months my officials have been working with key stakeholders to see how responsibility and cost sharing could best be taken forward in the North. A public consultation will issue shortly. The consultation will seek views on how responsibility sharing could be introduced in the North and explore a long term strategy for cost sharing. The consultation will also make some specific proposals to share the costs of some Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) and Scrapie controls. I have kept these BSE and Scrapie proposals to a minimum; they are not as extensive as proposals in Britain.
Following this consultation I will consider the views expressed by stakeholders before making any decisions on the way forward. However, I am keen to have new responsibility structures in place sooner rather than later, to enable industry to have a real say in how the long term cost sharing strategy is developed.
CULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE
Ulster Museum Exhibits
Mr Cobain asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what steps have been taken to exhibit items, normally on display in the Ulster Museum, while it is closed for refurbishment.
(AQO 3828/08)
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr G Campbell): The Ulster Museum has given priority to the delivery of an ambitious outreach strategy making their collections accessible and maintaining and raising awareness of them during closure. It has done so in partnership with other museums, galleries, libraries, schools, colleges, universities and community groups and by providing increased ‘virtual’ access to its collections, services and staff.
Dog Racing
Mr Dallat asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for his Department's assessment of the economic benefits of dog racing; and what plans he has to include dog racing on the list of activities officially recognised as sports.
(AQO 3853/08)
Mr G Campbell: As dog racing is not a recognised sport my Department has not assessed the economic benefits of dog racing. I have no plans to include dog racing on the list of activities officially recognised as sports. It would be for the British Greyhound Racing Board to apply for recognition.
Funding for Sport
Mrs Hanna asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what discussions he has had with his Scottish counterpart in relation to their strategy for funding sport and the health benefits of sport.
(AQO 3899/08)
Mr G Campbell: I met with the Scottish Minister for Communities and Sport, Stewart Maxwell MSP on 1 st May 2008. At this meeting we discussed the development of “Sport Matters” the new 10 year Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation in Northern Ireland, which has highlighted the importance of sport in health promotion. In light of this my Department in partnership with Sport Northern Ireland (SNI), is considering a number of targets that are intended to increase participation rates in sport in Northern Ireland. The proposed rates are consistent with the recommendations of the Chief Medical Officers in the UK in relation to healthy physical activity.
Our discussions also touched upon funding for sport, including the impact that diversion of lottery funds has had on good causes, including sport, and the importance of there being no further moves in this direction.
On 15th January 2008, the Secretary of State, James Purnell announced that there will be no further diversion from Lottery good causes to fund the 2012 Olympic Games. At the meeting of the UK Sports Cabinet, comprising the English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish Sports Ministers, held in Belfast on 14 th May, I again had the opportunity to highlight how critical it is that this commitment is adhered to.
Shared Sports Stadium
Ms Lo asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what his Department is doing to provide shared sports stadiums throughout Northern Ireland.
(AQO 3869/08)
Mr G Campbell: The primary example of a stadium which would operate on a shared basis is reflected is the proposals for a Multi-Sports Stadium. The preferred option of a shared 38,500-seater stadium at Maze/Long Kesh site has the full support of the governing bodies for football, rugby and Gaelic games. I anticipate that the NI Executive will consider the case for a Multi Sport Stadium in the context of the wider development of the Maze/Long Kesh site in the near future.
Today I also announced the publication of “Sport Matters: The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, 2008-2018.” Sport Matters contains targets to provide multi-sport sports facilities that would be available on a shared basis across Northern Ireland. This includes the specific provision of shared spaces for sport that encourage community integration.
Rathlin Island
Mr Storey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline his proposals for enhancing cultural activities for the residents of Rathlin Island.
(AQO 3898/08)
Mr G Campbell: DRD has set up a cross-departmental group which proposes a co-ordinated public sector approach to the needs of Rathlin Island.
DCAL welcomed the opportunity to attend a meeting of the cross-departmental group, examining the issues involved in developing a central island policy for Rathlin. The department will continue to support the work of the cross-departmental group as appropriate.
Promotion of the Irish Language
Mr Brolly asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure when his Department will publish a strategy to promote and enhance the Irish Language.
(AQO 3880/08)
Mr G Campbell: An Interdepartmental Group is developing a strategy for Northern Ireland’s Indigenous Minority Languages, which includes Irish and Ulster-Scots.
I intend to bring a paper on this matter to the Executive later this year. Publication of a strategy will be dependent upon the views of the Executive, the Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee, the Assembly and the public.
Young People Attending Arts Performances
Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what strategies are in place to increase the number of young people attending an arts performance at least once a year.
(AQO 3839/08)
Mr G Campbell: The Arts Council through its five year corporate plan, Creative Connections, is encouraging more young people to experience the arts. The Arts Council currently supports youth arts organisations such as Cahoots, Replay Productions and Big Telly Theatre Company to develop programmes and performances specifically aimed at children and young people. Another example is the Young at Art International Children’s Festival (which I recently attended)and this festival attracts around 10,000 people annually.
In addition the Arts Council leads on the Creative Youth Partnerships programme which is aimed at promoting creativity among children and young people in schools and in non-formal settings. The Arts Council has a specific target in its business plan to increase participation in the programme by 2% over current levels. Furthermore in response to the revised curriculum schools are also seeking increased opportunities for pupils to attend performances in drama, dance and music.
A major survey carried out in 2007 (Arts and Culture in Northern Ireland 2007) indicated that 93% of young people in the 16-24 age group attended an arts or cultural event in the previous year. This was a 3% increase over a similar survey carried out in 2004. Another recent survey of all Arts Council’s Regularly Funded Organisations revealed that 31% of programmes were designed specifically for children and young people and this was a significant increase compared with the previous survey.
New Libraries
Mr Burnside asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what progress has been made on the building of new libraries.
(AQO 3835/08)
Mr G Campbell: The libraries capital budget has increased from £1m in 2000 to £6.1m in 2008/09. A major programme to modernise library facilities across Northern Ireland has been undertaken with new libraries opening in Strabane, Ballymena, Lisburn, Finaghy, Cookstown and Grove in Belfast. The refurbished and extended Bangor Library is nearing completion and is scheduled to open in October.
I expect that work will start this year on improved library facilities in Antrim, Dungiven, Carrickfergus and Newtownstewart.
The public library service has an increased capital budget over the next three years of £31.6m. This will enable continued significant modernisation of the library estate.
Shared Sports Stadium
Dr Farry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what provision is going to be made for shared sports stadiums.
(AQO 3867/08)
Mr G Campbell: The primary example of a stadium which would operate on a shared basis is in the proposal for a Multi-Sports Stadium. The preferred option of a shared 38,500-seater stadium at Maze/Long Kesh site has the full support of the governing bodies for football, rugby and Gaelic games. I anticipate that the NI Executive will consider the case for a Multi Sport Stadium in the context of the wider development of the Maze/Long Kesh site in the near future.
Today I also announced the publication of “Sport Matters: The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, 2008-2018.” Sport Matters contains targets to provide multi-sport sports facilities that would be available on a shared basis across Northern Ireland. This includes the specific provision of shared spaces for sport that encourage community integration.
Shared Sports Stadium
Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline the opportunity costs of both the Maze and Belfast foreshore sites short-listed in the outline business case for the multi sports stadium.
(AQO 3857/08)
Mr G Campbell: The Outline Business Case (OBC) for the Multi-Sports Stadium examines a range of development options including two new-build options of a two-sport 30,000 spectator stadium at the North Foreshore, Belfast and a three-sport 38,500 spectator stadium at the Maze/Long Kesh site. The opportunity cost of the Maze site contained in the OBC is £9.9 million and for the North Foreshore it is £46.9 million.
EDUCATION
Taskforce on Protestant Working Class Communities
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education to confirm whether she intends to continue to fund programmes recommended by the Taskforce on Protestant Working Class Communities.
(AQW 5699/08)
The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane): Renewing Communities was the British government’s response to the issues raised by the Taskforce on Protestant Working Class Communities and the Department for Social Development had responsibility for co-ordinating the various measures taken forward by individual departments. The programme included a range of education based pilot projects aimed at selected disadvantaged areas of Belfast.
Some of the projects have now been mainstreamed and are being funded from core education budgets. I have been able to identify a small amount of funding to allow other projects to be supported in 2008/09. Details are set out in the table below.
Additionally, the Belfast and Western Education Library Boards are undertaking targeted programmes aimed at supporting teachers and young people in the two cities in addressing particular challenges relating to underachievement in areas of highest social disadvantage.
Tá súil agam go dtógfaidh an Bord, mar chuid dá chuid oibre, ar an bhfoghlaim ó thionscadail phíolótacha agus go gcuirfear i bhfeidhm í, de réir mar is iomchuí, agus a chuid iarrachtaí sonraithe á mbogadh chun cinn aige d’fhonn leibhéil ghnóthachtála a ardú
I will expect the Board, as part of its work, to build on the learning from the pilot projects and apply it, as appropriate, as it moves forward its targeted efforts to raise levels of achievement.
Project Title |
Description |
Funding arrangements |
|---|---|---|
Supporting SEN in schools & developing management standards |
A measure to offer support to schools under pressure by providing teachers with necessary Professional Qualification |
Funded to 30 June 2008 - £130k |
Curriculum Advisory and Support Services (CASS) – Special Educational Needs Support Pilot |
To provide specialist training in autism, dyslexia and behavioural issues |
Has been mainstreamed by BELB from April 2008
|
Integrated Children’s Services |
To support the delivery of integrated services to children in order to enhance early years provision and support other children’s development and learning activities |
Has been mainstreamed by DE from 1 April 2008 |
Healthy Schools Initiative |
To promote the health and well-being in children including the development of active schools and food in schools programmes |
Funded to 30 June 2008 - £80k |
Full Service School Demonstration Project |
To establish a Full Service School programme demonstrating how community access, full health and social services provision and childcare can come together. |
Has been mainstreamed by DE from 1 April 2008 |
Alternative Education Provision – Extension of Pathways Project |
An extension of the Pathways Project, which supports young people who are excluded from or who are experiencing difficulty in mainstream education |
Has been mainstreamed by BELB |
Detached Youth Work Teams |
Efforts to engaging disaffected youth in meaningful activities and divert them from becoming involved in anti-social behaviour
|
Funded to 30 June 2008 - £100k |
Role Models and Mentoring |
To bring successful local people into schools and youth clubs to encourage young people to aim high and to expand their view of what is possible |
Funded to 30 June 2008 - £30k |
Summer Intervention Programmes |
Groups working with young people across the city will benefit from this programme which has been aimed at reducing migration towards flashpoints |
Has been mainstreamed by DE from April 2008 |
Where former pilot programmes are now being mainstreamed they will be subject to appropriate equality screening and Section 75 duties.
Financial Cost of Division
Mr McCarthy asked the Minister of Education for her assessment of the figures on the cost of education detailed in the Deloite report 'Research into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide', under (i) quantified costs; (ii) identified costs not quantified; and (iii) teacher training costs identified but not quantified; and to detail her plans to reduce these figures.
(AQW 5745/08)
Ms C Ruane: I understand that this report was a piece of independent research which was commissioned by the previous administration and as such it represents the views of Deloitte Touche.
My department’s policy supports parents’ right to choose the school they consider best meets their child’s needs including denominational and non-denominational schools. Our aim is to facilitate parental choice whilst ensuring that we make best use of the resources available to education.
Since my appointment as Minister for Education I have taken forward a significant programme of reform aimed at delivering widespread improvements within education, including the creation of the Education and Skills Authority and those aimed at improving the planning and procurement of education provision.
Is iad na gníomhaíochtaí seo, a dhírítear ar ardú caighdeán oideachasúil agus ar éascú rogha na dtuismitheoirí ar an mhodh is éifeachtaí, a sholáthróidh fíor-choigiltis a thig a shaoradh do sheirbhísí túslíne, chun sochair na bpáistí agus na ndaoine óga uilig.
It is these actions, which are aimed at raising educational standards and facilitating parental choice in the most efficient manner, that will deliver real savings which can be released to front line services for the benefit all children and young people.
Breakfast Clubs in Schools
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail the schools that operate breakfast clubs for their pupils to encourage healthier eating.
(AQW 6588/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Department does not collect information on specific extended school activities offered by individual schools. Reports provided by schools funded under the extended schools programme indicate that in the 2006/07 school year 192 schools operated breakfast clubs and 235 offered after-school activities. Details for 2007/08 are not yet available.
Leithdháileadh maoiniú faoin chlár scoileanna leathnaithe ar na scoileanna a leanas i dtoghlach parlaiminte Thuaisceart an Dúin:
The following schools in the North Down parliamentary constituency have been allocated funding under the extended schools programme:
Schools |
06/07 funding |
07/08 funding |
08/09 funding |
|---|---|---|---|
Millisle PS |
£17,451 |
£17,538 |
£2,297 (no longer eligible for full funding) |
Bloomfield PS, Bangor |
NIL |
NIL |
£16,867 (new school) |
Kilcooley PS, Bangor |
£15,550 |
£15,850 |
£10,934 (fully funded) |
St Anne’s PS, Donaghadee |
£6,800 |
£6,400 |
£1,090 (no longer eligible for full funding) |
Extended Schools Funding
Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Education to detail the amount of Extended Schools funding that has been allocated to each primary school in the Mid-Ulster constituency since the scheme began, broken down by electoral ward.
(AQW 6617/08)
Ms C Ruane: Details are set out in Annex A:-
Annex A - lists the schools in the Mid Ulster constituency broken down by Electoral Ward that have qualified for extended schools funding in 2006/07, 2007/08 and 2008/09 and details the level of funding in each financial year. Figures for 2008/09 are based on all schools clustering which attracts a 40% incentive allocation.
I very much regret the fact that the level of funding provided for education this year, and the decision to discontinue the separate funding stream for the Children and Young People projects, has meant that I have not been able to maintain Extended Schools funding at 2007-08 levels.
As is the case in any budget process there are never sufficient resources to address all of the issues we would want to address and difficult choices have to be made. I have had to consider very carefully the allocation of the education budget across a range of competing priorities to ensure that key priority areas were addressed and at the same time core services maintained. In doing so I ensured that the £16m which had been provided direct to schools under the CYPFP was mainstreamed within school delegated budgets. That funding is therefore being maintained on a recurrent basis as part of schools delegated budgets. In addition to this I have made provision for other elements of former CYPFP funding including £8m a year for the early years programmes and counselling services in schools.
As regards the extended schools programme I would have liked to have maintained funding at previous levels but with the resources available I was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.
In determining how best to allocate the reduced budget, we have had to take account of several key factors;
- Continuing to facilitate those schools that draw very significant pupil enrolments from areas of social disadvantage;
- Minimise the negative impact for schools and local communities.
Accordingly the following eligibility criteria apply for schools in the 2008/09 financial year;
Primary, Post-primary, Special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a free school meals entitlement at or above 37%;
Nursery School pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%.
I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.
Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.
I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
Primary schools in the Mid Ulster Constituency - 2007/08 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
DENI Ref |
School name |
Eligible/Not Eligible |
Ward |
2006/07 |
2007/08 |
2008/09 |
3012233 |
TOBERMORE PS |
Not Eligible |
TOBERMORE |
|
|
|
3012234 |
AMPERTAINE PS |
Not Eligible |
UPPERLANDS |
|
|
|
3012255 |
DRUMARD PS |
Not Eligible |
UPPERLANDS |
|
|
|
3012267 |
MAGHERAFELT CONTROLLED PS |
No Longer Eligible |
TOWN PARKS EAST |
30,475 |
30,245 |
3,702 |
3012282 |
CULNADY PS |
Not Eligible |
UPPERLANDS |
|
|
|
3012290 |
BELLAGHY PS |
Not Eligible |
BELLAGHY |
|
|
|
3012291 |
MAGHERA PS |
Not Eligible |
GULLADUFF |
|
|
|
3013703 |
KILROSS PS |
Not Eligible |
TOBERMORE |
|
|
|
3013704 |
CASTLEDAWSON PS |
Not Eligible |
CASTLEDAWSON |
|
|
|
3016283 |
KNOCKLOUGHRIM PS |
Not Eligible |
KNOCKCLOGHRIM |
|
|
|
3032011 |
ALTAYESKEY PS |
Not Eligible |
DRAPERSTOWN |
|
|
|
3032018 |
ST BRIGID'S PS TIRKANE |
Not Eligible |
SWATRAGH |
|
|
|
3032109 |
NEW ROW PS |
Not Eligible |
CASTLEDAWSON |
|
|
|
3032185 |
ST TREA'S PS |
Not Eligible |
BALLYMAGUIGAN |
|
|
|
3032197 |
KNOCKNAGIN PS |
Not Eligible |
LECUMPHER |
|
|
|
3032205 |
ST COLUMB'S PS (CULLION) |
Not Eligible |
LECUMPHER |
|
|
|
3032218 |
CROSSROADS PS |
Not Eligible |
UPPERLANDS |
|
|
|
3032246 |
BALLYNEASE PS |
Not Eligible |
BELLAGHY |
|
|
|
3032257 |
ANAHORISH PS |
Not Eligible |
BALLYMAGUIGAN |
|
|
|
3032268 |
ST COLUMBA'S PS |
Not Eligible |
DRAPERSTOWN |
|
|
|
3032271 |
ST EOGHAN'S PS |
Not Eligible |
LOWER GLENSHANE |
|
|
|
3032273 |
ST MARY'S PS |
Not Eligible |
DRAPERSTOWN |
|
|
|
3032274 |
ST JOHN'S PS |
Not Eligible |
SWATRAGH |
|
|
|
3032275 |
GREENLOUGH PS (ST MARY'S) |
Not Eligible |
VALLEY (MAGHERAFELT) |
|
|
|
3032281 |
ST MARY'S PS |
Not Eligible |
BELLAGHY |
|
|
|
3036039 |
ST MARY'S PS ( GLENVIEW) |
New School |
LOWER GLENSHANE |
0 |
0 |
17,584 |
3036103 |
ST BRIGID'S PS |
Not Eligible |
GULLADUFF |
|
|
|
3036292 |
ST PATRICK'S PS (GLEN) |
Not Eligible |
LOWER GLENSHANE |
|
|
|
3036562 |
HOLY FAMILY PS |
No Longer Eligible |
GLEBE (MAGHERAFELT) |
34,949 |
35,018 |
4,451 |
3042162 |
DESERTMARTIN PS |
Not Eligible |
TOBERMORE |
|
|
|
3046678 |
Gaelscoil na Spéiríní |
Not Eligible |
LOWER GLENSHANE |
|
|
|
3066613 |
SPIRES INTEGRATED PS |
Not Eligible |
TOWN PARKS EAST |
|
|
|
5012280 |
MONEYMORE PS |
Not Eligible |
MONEYMORE |
|
|
|
5012615 |
BALLYTREA PS |
Eligible |
STEWARTSTOWN |
14,605 |
14,720 |
9,884 |
5012632 |
DONAGHMORE PS |
New School |
DONAGHMORE (DUNGANNON) |
0 |
0 |
7,112 |
5012643 |
STEWARTSTOWN PS |
New School |
STEWARTSTOWN |
0 |
0 |
6,160 |
5012649 |
COAGH PS |
No Longer Eligible |
COAGH |
11,385 |
10,695 |
1,449 |
5012719 |
NEWMILLS PS |
Not Eligible |
COALISLAND WEST AND NEWMILLS |
|
|
|
5012726 |
COOKSTOWN PS |
Not Eligible |
NEWBUILDINGS |
|
|
|
5013702 |
WOODS PS |
Not Eligible |
THE LOOP |
|
|
|
5016141 |
CHURCHTOWN PS |
Not Eligible |
LISSAN |
|
|
|
5016200 |
QUEEN ELIZABETH II (POMEROY) PS |
Eligible |
POMEROY |
6,800 |
5,900 |
5,936 |
5016221 |
ORRITOR PS |
Not Eligible |
OAKLANDS |
|
|
|
5016224 |
DONAGHEY PS |
Not Eligible |
SANDHOLES |
|
|
|
5032208 |
BALLYLIFFORD PS |
Not Eligible |
THE LOOP |
|
|
|
5032262 |
LISSAN (1) PS |
Not Eligible |
LISSAN |
|
|
|
5032585 |
EDENDORK PS |
Not Eligible |
COALISLAND WEST AND NEWMILLS |
|
|
|
5032592 |
ST MARY'S PS |
Not Eligible |
DONAGHMORE (DUNGANNON) |
|
|
|
5032678 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
Not Eligible |
DONAGHMORE (DUNGANNON) |
|
|
|
5032692 |
ST MARY'S PS |
Eligible |
STEWARTSTOWN |
15,813 |
16,158 |
10,304 |
5032693 |
CRIEVAGH PS |
Not Eligible |
LISSAN |
|
|
|
5032698 |
ST BRIGID'S PS |
Not Eligible |
WASHING BAY |
|
|
|
5032699 |
ST MARY'S PS |
Eligible |
DUNNAMORE |
20,815 |
20,384 |
12,614 |
5032703 |
ST PETER'S PS |
Eligible |
ARDBOE |
23,230 |
22,195 |
13,328 |
5032713 |
DERRYCHRIN PS |
Eligible |
ARDBOE |
16,071 |
15,381 |
10,094 |
5032714 |
AUGHAMULLAN PS |
Not Eligible |
WASHING BAY |
|
|
|
5032717 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
New School |
KILLYCOLPY |
0 |
0 |
12,824 |
5032729 |
ST JOHN'S PS |
Not Eligible |
WASHING BAY |
|
|
|
5036031 |
ST PATRICK'S P.S. LOUP |
Not Eligible |
THE LOOP |
|
|
|
5036033 |
ST JOSEPH'S PS |
New School |
ALTMORE |
0 |
0 |
13,118 |
5036047 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
No Longer Eligible |
WASHING BAY |
25,070 |
24,610 |
2,990 |
5036057 |
ST MALACHY'S PS |
No Longer Eligible |
MONEYMORE |
7,705 |
7,935 |
1,254 |
5036108 |
ST JOSEPH'S PS |
Eligible |
DUNNAMORE |
11,615 |
11,730 |
8,736 |
5036118 |
ST MARY'S PS |
Eligible |
POMEROY |
22,626 |
21,505 |
12,824 |
5036120 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
Not Eligible |
MONEYMORE |
|
|
|
5036136 |
SACRED HEART PS, ROCK |
Not Eligible |
OAKLANDS |
|
|
|
5036567 |
HOLY TRINITY PS |
Not Eligible |
TULLAGH |
|
|
|
5036590 |
PRIMATE DIXON PS |
Eligible |
COALISLAND WEST AND NEWMILLS |
34,420 |
34,397 |
20,944 |
5046637 |
GAELSCOIL UI NEILL |
Buffer School |
COALISLAND NORTH |
13,225 |
13,300 |
5,173 |
5066657 |
PHOENIX INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL |
Not Eligible |
NEWBUILDINGS |
|
|
|
Source: NI school census 2007/08 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
NB The buffer zone – due to the change in eligibility criteria some previously funded schools may slip below the qualifying criteria one year and then qualify the next. Therefore a “buffer zone” has been created to allow previously funded schools falling a few percentage points below the threshold to be funded for 2 years at a reduced amount, (50%) if eligibility has not been re-established after 2 years, these schools will exit the programme. |
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Extended Schools Programme
Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Education to detail the criteria used to allocate funding through the Extended School Programme for 2008-09.
(AQW 6619/08)
Ms C Ruane: In considering how best to allocate the massive cut from £10m to £5.8m, the Department had to take account of several key factors including the need to ensure a clear and continuing focus on facilitating those schools that draw very significant numbers of their pupils from areas of social disadvantage to become and remain extended schools.
In ensuring that the reduced resources are targeted on pupils living in those wards most socially deprived the Multiple Deprivation Measure has now been used in preference to just the education domain which was used to determine eligibility in the 2006/07 and 2007/08 programmes. This change ensures support is strongly focused on the most socially disadvantaged.
It has also been decided to change the eligibility criteria for primary and special schools to reflect the fact that we now have more sophisticated data. In each of the 2006/07 and 2007/08 programmes the Department relied on a school’s location, funding those schools located in NRAs or in the 30% most disadvantaged wards. This had the obvious weakness that not all pupils attend their nearest primary or special school and in some cases a school was located just outside the eligible NRA but drew pupils from it. The Department now collects postcode data from primary and special schools which allows us to select these school sectors on the same basis as post-primaries – with reference to the area from which pupils come as opposed to the area in which the school is located. The FSME eligibility still remains at or above 37% for all schools.
Dá réir, bhí na critéir incháilitheachta a leanas i bhfeidhm don bhliain airgeadais 2008/09:
Accordingly the following eligibility criteria have applied for the 2008/09 financial year;
- Primary, post-primary and special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with FSME at or above 37%;
- Nursery schools pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%
Extended Schools Budget
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education what changes have been made to the criterion for the extended schools budget.
(AQW 7114/08)
Ms C Ruane: In considering how best to allocate the massive cut from £10m to £5.8m, the Department had to take account of several key factors including the need to ensure a clear and continuing focus on facilitating those schools that draw very significant numbers of their pupils from areas of social disadvantage to become and remain extended schools. In ensuring that the reduced resources are targeted on pupils living in those wards most socially deprived the Multiple Deprivation Measure has now been used in preference to just the education domain which was used to determine eligibility in the 2006/07 and 2007/08 programmes. This change ensures support is strongly focused on the most socially disadvantaged.
It has also been decided to change the eligibility criteria for primary and special schools to reflect the fact that we now have more sophisticated data. In each of the 2006/07 and 2007/08 programmes the Department relied on a school’s location, funding those schools located in NRAs or in the 30% most disadvantaged wards. This had the obvious weakness that not all pupils attend their nearest primary or special school and in some cases a school was located just outside the eligible NRA but drew pupils from it. The Department now collects postcode data from primary and special schools, which allows us to select these school sectors on the same basis as post-primaries – with reference to the area from which pupils come as opposed to the area in which the school is located. The FSME eligibility still remains at or above 37% for all schools.
Dá réir, bhí na critéir incháilitheachta a leanas i bhfeidhm don bhliain airgeadais 2008/09:
Accordingly the following eligibility criteria have applied for the 2008/09 financial year;
- Primary, post-primary and special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with FSME at or above 37%;
- Nursery schools pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%
Extended Schools Budget
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education how much money is available for the extended schools budget in 2009-10 and 2010-11.
(AQW 7115/08)
Ms C Ruane: Allocations for the extended schools programme in 2009-10 and 2010-11 have not yet been determined. They will be agreed in the budget for each year on the basis of relevant factors at that time.
As you know I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the current shortfall in funding presents.
Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.
I will continue to press at every available opportunity for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
Extended Schools Programme
Mr Campbell asked the Minister of Education which primary and post-primary schools in the East Derry/Londonderry and Foyle constituencies were affected by the recent decision in relation to the extended schools programme.
(AQW 7182/08)
Ms C Ruane: The attached Annex lists the funding implications for primary and post-primary schools previously and currently eligible, in the East Derry and Foyle constituencies, for extended schools funding in 2008/09.
The resources previously available under the Children and Young People funding Package (CYPFP) has unfortunately been greatly reduced.
As is the case in any budget process there is never sufficient resources to address all of the things we would want to address and difficult choices have to be made. I had to consider very carefully the allocation of the education budget across a range of competing priorities to ensure that key priority areas were addressed and at the same time core services maintained and inescapable pressures covered. In doing so I ensured that the £16m which had been provided direct to schools under the CYPFP was mainstreamed within school delegated budgets. That funding is therefore being maintained on a recurrent basis as part of schools delegated budgets. In addition to this I have made provision for other elements of former CYPFP funding including £8m a year for the early years programmes and counselling services in schools.
As regards the extended schools programme I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.
In determining how best to allocate the reduced budget, we have had to take account of several key factors;
- Continuing to facilitate those schools that draw very significant pupil enrolments from areas of social disadvantage;
- Minimise the negative impact for schools and local communities.
Accordingly the following eligibility criteria apply for schools in the 2008/09 financial year;
Primary, Post-primary, Special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a free school meals entitlement at or above 37%;
Nursery School pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%.
I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.
Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.
I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
|
|
|
Annex A |
|---|---|---|---|
Ref No |
School Name |
Parliamentary Constituency |
Status of Extended School |
3033709 |
ST JOHN'S PS |
EAST DERRY |
Exiting |
3016252 |
BALLYSALLY PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
3016052 |
HARPURS HILL PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
3012264 |
MILLBURN PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
3012237 |
KILLOWEN PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2066665 |
ROEVALLEY INTEGRATED PS |
EAST DERRY |
Buffer |
2036458 |
GORTNAGHEY PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2036187 |
ST JOHN'S PS, DERNAFLAW |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2036149 |
ST FINLOUGH'S PS |
EAST DERRY |
Exiting |
2036085 |
ST PETER'S & ST PAUL'S PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2033706 |
FAUGHANVALE PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2032287 |
TERMONCANICE PS |
EAST DERRY |
Exiting |
2032263 |
ST CANICE'S PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2016426 |
LIMAVADY CENTRAL PS |
EAST DERRY |
Exiting |
2012276 |
BURNFOOT PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2012058 |
LARGY PS |
EAST DERRY |
Continuing |
2066558 |
OAKGROVE INTEGRATED PS |
FOYLE |
New |
2052035 |
GROARTY INTEGRATED PS |
FOYLE |
New |
2046646 |
GAELSCOIL EADAIN MHOIR |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036581 |
ST PATRICKS PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036574 |
BUNSCOIL CHOLMCILLE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036555 |
ST EUGENE'S PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036475 |
LONGTOWER PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036473 |
ST EITHNE'S PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036472 |
HOLY FAMILY PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036465 |
CHAPEL ROAD PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036461 |
ST THERESA'S PS, LENAMORE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036288 |
GOOD SHEPHERD PS & NS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036259 |
TRENCH ROAD PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036227 |
ST PAULS PS, SLIEVEMORE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036143 |
ST OLIVER PLUNKETT PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036142 |
ST BRIGID'S PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036084 |
STEELSTOWN VOL MAINTAINED PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036069 |
ST ANNE'S PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2036032 |
ST JOHN'S PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2033707 |
MULLABUOY PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2032212 |
GLENDERMOTT PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2030381 |
HOLY CHILD PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2030373 |
NAZARETH HOUSE PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2030364 |
ROSEMOUNT PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2016564 |
FOUNTAIN PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2016203 |
LISNAGELVIN PS |
FOYLE |
Exiting |
2016124 |
ASHLEA PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2016071 |
GREENHAW PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2012261 |
NEWBUILDINGS PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2012227 |
DRUMAHOE PS |
FOYLE |
Exiting |
2012095 |
BALLOUGRY PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2010382 |
EBRINGTON CONTROLLED PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2010380 |
DERRY MODEL PS |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2230081 |
ST MARY'S COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2230131 |
ST JOSEPH'S SECONDARY |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2230181 |
ST PETER'S HIGH SCHOOL |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2230188 |
ST CECILIA'S COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2230225 |
ST BRIGID'S COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2230254 |
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2260276 |
OAKGROVE INTEGRATED COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2420052 |
THORNHILL COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2420054 |
ST COLUMB'S COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
Continuing |
2420287 |
LUMEN CHRISTI COLLEGE |
FOYLE |
New |
|
|
|
|
|
Schools in Red will exit in June 08 |
|
|
|
Schools in Black will continue 08/09 |
|
|
|
Schools in Green are now eligible for Extended Schools funding |
|
|
|
School in blue is in the Buffer zone |
|
|
|
NB The buffer zone – due to the change in eligibility criteria some previously funded schools may slip below the qualifying criteria one year and then qualify the next. Therefore a “buffer zone” has been created to allow previously funded schools falling a few percentage points below the threshold to be funded for 2 years at a reduced amount, (50%) if eligibility has not been re-established after 2 years, these schools will exit the programme. |
|
|
Extended Schools Programme
Mr Campbell asked the Minister of Education what is the criteria for the appeals mechanism in relation to the recent decision on the Extended Schools Programme.
(AQW 7188/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Extended Schools was launched in June 2006 as part of the Children and Young People Funding Package with £10m made available in each of the 2006/07 and 2007/08 financial years.
It was envisaged that the programme would be a key vehicle for contributing to the strands across the Ten Year Strategy for Children and Young People and accordingly our understanding was that when funding was allocated to DE during direct rule that it was to be mainstreamed i.e. a baseline allocation and not a short term programme. However contrary to that understanding the funding for the programme was removed from the DE baseline from 2008-09 onwards and as a consequence I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a substantial reduction from £10m to £5.8m.
I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents. I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
Tá £5.826m de mhaoiniú le fáil don bhliain airgeadais 2008/09 do Scoileanna Sínte; is laghdú 40% é sin i gcomparáid le maoiniú na bliana 2007/08. Tiocfaidh an laghdú sin in éifeacht ó 1 Aibreán 2008.
Extended Schools Funding
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education which schools in the South Eastern Education and Library Board area will no longer qualify for extended schools funding in 2008-2009.
(AQW 7196/08)
Ms C Ruane: Details are set out in the annexes:-
Annex 1 - lists the schools in the South Eastern Education and Library Board Area that qualified for extended schools funding in 2006/07 and 2007/08.
Annex 2 - lists those schools that no longer meet eligibility criteria and exit the programme.
The Extended Schools programme will continue to be funded during the 2008/09 financial year. The amount previously available under the Children and Young People funding Package (CYPFP) has unfortunately been greatly reduced.
As is the case in any budget process there is never sufficient resources to address all of the things we would want to address and difficult choices have to be made. I had to consider very carefully the allocation of the education budget across a range of competing priorities to ensure that key priority areas were addressed and at the same time core services maintained and inescapable pressures covered. In doing so I ensured that the £16m which had been provided direct to schools under the CYPFP was mainstreamed within school delegated budgets. That funding is therefore being maintained on a recurrent basis as part of schools delegated budgets. In addition to this I have made provision for other elements of former CYPFP funding including £8m a year for the early years programmes and counselling services in schools.
As regards the extended schools programme I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.
In determining how best to allocate the reduced budget, we have had to take account of several key factors;
- Continuing to facilitate those schools that draw very significant pupil enrolments from areas of social disadvantage;
- Minimise the negative impact for schools and local communities.
Accordingly the following eligibility criteria apply for schools in the 2008/09 financial year;
Primary, Post-primary, Special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a free school meals entitlement at or above 37%;
Nursery School pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%.
Annex 1
School Reference Number |
South Eastern Education & Library Board –Schools eligible for Extended School funding – 2006/07 & 2007/08 |
|---|---|
4010743 |
LARGYMORE PS |
4010885 |
TONAGH PS |
4011632 |
CREGAGH PS |
4013013 |
BELVOIR PARK PS |
4013038 |
TULLYCARNET PS |
4013309 |
DERRIAGHY PS |
4013334 |
KNOCKMORE PS |
4016002 |
KILCOOLEY PS |
4016083 |
WEST WINDS PS |
4016144 |
OLD WARREN PS |
4031384 |
CONVENT OF MERCY PS |
4031644 |
ST PATRICK'S BOYS' PS |
4033306 |
ST ALOYSIUS PS |
4036081 |
ST LUKE'S PS |
4036134 |
ST MARK'S PS |
4036182 |
ST COLMCILLE'S PS |
4036285 |
THE GOOD SHEPHERD PS |
4036480 |
ST KIERAN'S PS |
4036591 |
OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE PS |
4036618 |
CHRIST THE REDEEMER PS |
4046600 |
SCOIL NA FUISEOIGE |
4136286 |
GOOD SHEPHERD NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136368 |
ST LUKE'S NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136481 |
ST KIERAN'S NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136606 |
ST THERESE NURSERY SCHOOL |
4210030 |
LISNASHARRAGH HIGH SCHOOL (3mths, closing) |
4210051 |
LISNAGARVEY HIGH SCHOOL |
4210194 |
DUNMURRY HIGH SCHOOL |
4210262 |
DUNDONALD HIGH SCHOOL |
4230223 |
ST COLM'S HIGH SCHOOL |
4310008 |
BEECHLAWN SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4310019 |
ARDMORE HOUSE SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4316022 |
BROOKFIELD SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4316273 |
LONGSTONE SPECIAL SCHOOL |
I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.
Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.
I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
Annex 2
School Reference Number |
Schools Exiting the Extended Schools Programme in 2008/09 |
|---|---|
4010762 |
BROWNLEE PS |
4010807 |
LISBURN CENTRAL PS |
4011373 |
KIRKISTOWN PS |
4011462 |
CASTLE GARDENS PS |
4011488 |
VICTORIA PS (BALLYHALBERT) |
4011507 |
PORTAVOGIE PS |
4011587 |
DUNDONALD PS |
4011588 |
COMBER PS |
4011634 |
KILLYLEAGH PS |
4011646 |
VICTORIA PS |
4011657 |
LISNASHARRAGH PS |
4011681 |
MILLISLE PS |
4013308 |
FORT HILL PS |
4016004 |
LONDONDERRY PS |
4016235 |
DOWNPATRICK PS |
4016503 |
BROOKLANDS PS |
4030897 |
ST JOSEPH'S PS |
4031671 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
4033008 |
ST ANNE'S PS |
4033017 |
ST FINIAN'S PS |
4033036 |
ST MARY'S PS |
4036036 |
ST MALACHY'S PS |
4036148 |
ST MALACHY'S PS |
4036530 |
ST MARY'S PS |
4050618 |
HILDEN INTEGRATED PS |
4051601 |
PORTAFERRY INTEGRATED PS |
4110035 |
NEWTOWNARDS NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116018 |
BARBOUR NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116176 |
DOWNPATRICK NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116216 |
KING'S ROAD NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116240 |
CASTLEREAGH NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116307 |
GLENBROOK NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136211 |
ST COLMCILLE'S NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136212 |
ST PATRICK'S CONVENT NURSERY |
4136317 |
HOLY TRINITY NURSERY SCHOOL |
4230165 |
ST PATRICK'S HIGH SCHOOL |
4230224 |
DE LA SALLE SECONDARY SCHOOL |
4310013 |
KILLARD HOUSE SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4316516 |
KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL |
Extended Schools Funding
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education which schools in the South Eastern Education and Library Board area qualified for extended schools funding in 2006-2007 and 2007-2008.
(AQW 7197/08)
Ms C Ruane: Details are set out in the annexes:-
Annex 1 - lists the schools in the South Eastern Education and Library Board Area that qualified for extended schools funding in 2006/07 and 2007/08.
Annex 2 - lists those schools that no longer meet eligibility criteria and exit the programme.
The Extended Schools programme will continue to be funded during the 2008/09 financial year. The amount previously available under the Children and Young People funding Package (CYPFP) has unfortunately been greatly reduced.
As is the case in any budget process there is never sufficient resources to address all of the things we would want to address and difficult choices have to be made. I had to consider very carefully the allocation of the education budget across a range of competing priorities to ensure that key priority areas were addressed and at the same time core services maintained and inescapable pressures covered. In doing so I ensured that the £16m which had been provided direct to schools under the CYPFP was mainstreamed within school delegated budgets. That funding is therefore being maintained on a recurrent basis as part of schools delegated budgets. In addition to this I have made provision for other elements of former CYPFP funding including £8m a year for the early years programmes and counselling services in schools.
As regards the extended schools programme I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.
In determining how best to allocate the reduced budget, we have had to take account of several key factors;
- Continuing to facilitate those schools that draw very significant pupil enrolments from areas of social disadvantage;
- Minimise the negative impact for schools and local communities.
Accordingly the following eligibility criteria apply for schools in the 2008/09 financial year;
Primary, Post-primary, Special schools with 51% or more of their pupils drawn from a Neighbourhood Renewal Area or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a free school meals entitlement at or above 37%;
Nursery School pupils with FSME or income based job seekers allowance at or above 37%.
I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.
Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.
I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
Annex 1
School Reference Number |
South Eastern Education & Library Board –Schools eligible for Extended School funding – 2006/07 & 2007/08 |
|---|---|
4010743 |
LARGYMORE PS |
4010885 |
TONAGH PS |
4011632 |
CREGAGH PS |
4013013 |
BELVOIR PARK PS |
4013038 |
TULLYCARNET PS |
4013309 |
DERRIAGHY PS |
4013334 |
KNOCKMORE PS |
4016002 |
KILCOOLEY PS |
4016083 |
WEST WINDS PS |
4016144 |
OLD WARREN PS |
4031384 |
CONVENT OF MERCY PS |
4031644 |
ST PATRICK'S BOYS' PS |
4033306 |
ST ALOYSIUS PS |
4036081 |
ST LUKE'S PS |
4036134 |
ST MARK'S PS |
4036182 |
ST COLMCILLE'S PS |
4036285 |
THE GOOD SHEPHERD PS |
4036480 |
ST KIERAN'S PS |
4036591 |
OUR LADY QUEEN OF PEACE PS |
4036618 |
CHRIST THE REDEEMER PS |
4046600 |
SCOIL NA FUISEOIGE |
4136286 |
GOOD SHEPHERD NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136368 |
ST LUKE'S NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136481 |
ST KIERAN'S NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136606 |
ST THERESE NURSERY SCHOOL |
4210030 |
LISNASHARRAGH HIGH SCHOOL (3mths, closing) |
4210051 |
LISNAGARVEY HIGH SCHOOL |
4210194 |
DUNMURRY HIGH SCHOOL |
4210262 |
DUNDONALD HIGH SCHOOL |
4230223 |
ST COLM'S HIGH SCHOOL |
4310008 |
BEECHLAWN SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4310019 |
ARDMORE HOUSE SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4316022 |
BROOKFIELD SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4316273 |
LONGSTONE SPECIAL SCHOOL |
Annex 2
School Reference Number |
Schools Exiting the Extended Schools Programme in 2008/09 |
|---|---|
4010762 |
BROWNLEE PS |
4010807 |
LISBURN CENTRAL PS |
4011373 |
KIRKISTOWN PS |
4011462 |
CASTLE GARDENS PS |
4011488 |
VICTORIA PS (BALLYHALBERT) |
4011507 |
PORTAVOGIE PS |
4011587 |
DUNDONALD PS |
4011588 |
COMBER PS |
4011634 |
KILLYLEAGH PS |
4011646 |
VICTORIA PS |
4011657 |
LISNASHARRAGH PS |
4011681 |
MILLISLE PS |
4013308 |
FORT HILL PS |
4016004 |
LONDONDERRY PS |
4016235 |
DOWNPATRICK PS |
4016503 |
BROOKLANDS PS |
4030897 |
ST JOSEPH'S PS |
4031671 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
4033008 |
ST ANNE'S PS |
4033017 |
ST FINIAN'S PS |
4033036 |
ST MARY'S PS |
4036036 |
ST MALACHY'S PS |
4036148 |
ST MALACHY'S PS |
4036530 |
ST MARY'S PS |
4050618 |
HILDEN INTEGRATED PS |
4051601 |
PORTAFERRY INTEGRATED PS |
4110035 |
NEWTOWNARDS NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116018 |
BARBOUR NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116176 |
DOWNPATRICK NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116216 |
KING'S ROAD NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116240 |
CASTLEREAGH NURSERY SCHOOL |
4116307 |
GLENBROOK NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136211 |
ST COLMCILLE'S NURSERY SCHOOL |
4136212 |
ST PATRICK'S CONVENT NURSERY |
4136317 |
HOLY TRINITY NURSERY SCHOOL |
4230165 |
ST PATRICK'S HIGH SCHOOL |
4230224 |
DE LA SALLE SECONDARY SCHOOL |
4310013 |
KILLARD HOUSE SPECIAL SCHOOL |
4316516 |
KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL |
Qualified Teachers
Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each of the last 5 years, (i) the number of newly qualified primary school teachers; (ii) the percentage of newly qualified teachers that this represents and (iii) the number of these newly qualified teachers that were offered (a) a permanent full-time position; (b) a permanent part-time position; (c) a temporary full-time position; and (d) a temporary part-time position, within the primary school sector.
(AQW 7210/08)
Ms C Ruane: The number of (i) newly qualified primary school teachers and (ii) the percentage of newly qualified teachers that this represents from Higher Education Institutions in the north of Ireland for the last five academic years are shown in the table below:
2002/03 |
390 |
50% |
2003/04 |
390 |
50% |
2004/05 |
410 |
50% |
2005/06 |
405 |
50% |
2006/07 |
405 |
50% |
Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency
Note: Figures have been rounded to the nearest 5. The latest available data are for 2006/07.
Ní choinníonn an Roinn an t-eolas atá á iarraidh ag (iii) maidir le “tairiscintí” ar phoist mhúinteoireachta. Is é gnó na n-údarás fostaíochta uilig iad tairiscintí ar phoist fostaíochta.
The Department does not hold the information requested at (iii) regarding “offers” of teaching positions. Offers of employment positions would be a matter for all of the employing authorities.
Public Private Partnerships for School Buildings
Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education what provisions are being made for Private Finance Initiatives/Public Private Partnership contracts for school buildings in order to make these premises available for community use on a basis other than market value.
(AQW 7226/08)
Ms C Ruane: Áitribh scoile a fuarthas faoi Chomhpháirtíocht Phríobháideach Phoiblí cuirtear ar fáil iad taobh amuigh d’uaireanta scoile do thríú páirtithe ar ráta a shocraítear sa chonradh CPP.
School premises procured under Public Private Partnership are made available outside of school hours to third parties at a rate determined in the PPP contract.
Third party use is subject to agreement of the relevant school authority and the PPP operator. Organisations or groups using school facilities for activities which are not related to the organisation of the school and the delivery of the
curriculum would normally pay the full economic cost for the use of such facilities. However, it may be possible for groups to negotiate a reduced rate for such activities with the operator.
English as a Second Language
Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education what is the budget allocation for teaching English as a Second Language in primary and secondary schools in the East Belfast parliamentary constituency.
(AQW 7227/08)
Ms C Ruane: In the October 2007 school census, a total of 7,994 children and young people were recorded as having a first language other than English. Of those children, a total of 5,665 were identified as having English as an Additional Language (EAL), in other words, significant difficulty with the English language and requiring additional assistance.
My Department is providing various aspects of funding to make sure all EAL pupils receive support.
Through the Common Funding Formula, an additional EAL funding factor is provided in a school’s annual budget for each pupil it has recorded as having EAL. In 2008/09, this additional funding is £983 per EAL pupil, which gives a total of £5.5 million going directly into schools. It is up to a school’s principal and the board of governors to decide how best to use this funding and in practice, schools are using it in a variety of ways for the benefit of the EAL pupils in their schools.
Mar a leanas atá miondealú an fhachtóra mhaoinithe seo chun tacaíochta na ndaltaí seo a bhfuil EAL acu i mbunscoileanna agus in iar-bhunscoileanna i dtoghlach parlaiminte Oirthear Bhéal Feirste 2008/09:
The breakdown of this funding factor for the support of those pupils who have EAL in primary and post-primary schools in the East Belfast parliamentary constituency in 2008/09 is as follows:
Primary: £140,569
Post-Primary: £132,705
In addition to the Common Funding Formula, my Department is funding the Inclusion and Diversity Service (IDS) with just over £1million in 2008/09. This regional service, which was set up in April 2007, has brought together services across the five Education and Library Boards to strengthen and improve support for all EAL pupils, their parents and teaching staff, primarily working through schools.
A number of new services such as interpreting, translating and a multi-lingual website have been set up through the IDS and are available across the north of Ireland.
In January 2008, Diversity Coordinators, who have expertise in the area of EAL, were recruited by the new service and posted in cluster groups of schools to give additional support and guidance to teaching staff. There is one Diversity Coordinator posted in the East Belfast area, as well as an Assistant Advisory Officer. This initiative facilitates capacity building by working with all schools on whole school and classroom issues, which includes language support.
In addition to this, I launched a north/south Diversity toolkit for primary school teachers in December 2007. An extensive training programme for all teachers within primary schools has been undertaken in relation to this toolkit. The development of further toolkits for nursery, post-primary and special schools is planned for the future.
Primary Schools in East Belfast
Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education what is the strategic plan for the future provision of the primary school estate in East Belfast parliamentary constituency.
(AQW 7229/08)
Ms C Ruane: The planning of the school estate is initiated in the first instance by the relevant school authorities. The South Eastern Education and Library Board, as part of its strategic review of the school estate within its responsibility, identified the need for some rationalisation of primary provision along the Castlereagh dual carriageway area, though there are no current proposals. The Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB) last year published a consultation document in which it examined the position of the primary school estate within its domain. The Board has held a series of consultations about the schools estate with a number of primary schools though no proposals have been confirmed as yet.
Tá na tograí seo a leanas de chuid BOLB ar siúl:
The following BELB projects are in progress:
- Sydenham Infants and Strand PS’s are amalgamating from September 2008 and the new school will be known as Victoria Park Primary School.
- A replacement school for Orangefield Primary School is currently under construction. The new school is due to open in April 2009.
CCMS has indicated a potential need for a capital scheme for St Joseph’s PS though the Department has not yet carried out an assessment to confirm the need for a scheme.
Applications to Primary and Post-Primary Schools
Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education how many applicants to integrated (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary schools, were (a) successful; and (b) unsuccessful, in each academic year since 1997-98.
(AQW 7233/08)
Ms C Ruane: Ní choinníonn an Roinn ach taifid do na scoilbhlianta 2002/03 – 2007-2008. Tá líon na n-iarratasóirí do (i) bhunscoileanna imeasctha; agus (ii) d’iar-bhunscoileanna imeasctha, (a) ar éirigh leo; agus (b) nár éirigh leo, i ngach bliain acadúil ó 2003/2004, mionsonraithe sna táblaí faoi iamh .
The Department’s only holds records for the school years 2002/03 – 2007-2008. The number of applicants to integrated (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary schools, were (a) successful; and (b) unsuccessful, in each academic year since 2003/04 are detailed in the attached tables.
(i) INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOLS |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Boards |
Total Applications |
(a) Successful Applicants |
(b) Unsuccessful Applicants |
2002/03 |
BELB |
114 |
114 |
0 |
|
WELB |
115 |
111 |
4 |
|
NEELB |
188 |
162 |
26 |
|
SEELB |
291 |
271 |
20 |
|
SELB |
167 |
153 |
14 |
|
TOTAL |
875 |
811 |
64 |
|
||||
2003/04 |
BELB |
115 |
115 |
0 |
|
WELB |
111 |
110 |
1 |
|
NEELB |
248 |
226 |
22 |
|
SEELB |
315 |
297 |
18 |
|
SELB |
176 |
158 |
18 |
|
TOTAL |
965 |
906 |
59 |
|
||||
2004/05 |
BELB |
115 |
115 |
0 |
|
WELB |
153 |
131 |
22 |
|
NEELB |
223 |
207 |
16 |
|
SEELB |
313 |
302 |
11 |
|
SELB |
194 |
179 |
15 |
|
TOTAL |
998 |
934 |
64 |
|
||||
2005/06 |
BELB |
99 |
99 |
0 |
|
WELB |
131 |
131 |
0 |
|
NEELB |
254 |
233 |
21 |
|
SEELB |
321 |
319 |
2 |
|
SELB |
192 |
187 |
5 |
|
TOTAL |
997 |
969 |
28 |
|
||||
2006/07 |
BELB |
109 |
108 |
1 |
|
WELB |
174 |
162 |
12 |
|
NEELB |
256 |
231 |
25 |
|
SEELB |
343 |
324 |
19 |
|
SELB |
191 |
183 |
8 |
|
TOTAL |
1073 |
1008 |
65 |
|
||||
2007/08 |
BELB |
114 |
114 |
0 |
|
WELB |
159 |
153 |
6 |
|
NEELB |
274 |
245 |
29 |
|
SEELB |
361 |
342 |
19 |
|
SELB |
205 |
190 |
15 |
|
TOTAL |
1113 |
1044 |
69 |
(ii) INTEGRATED POST-PRIMARY SCHOOLS |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Boards |
Total Applications |
(a) Successful Applicants |
(b) Unsuccessful Applicants |
2002/03 |
BELB |
353 |
247 |
106 |
|
WELB |
322 |
269 |
53 |
|
NEELB |
543 |
346 |
197 |
|
SEELB |
1033 |
638 |
395 |
|
SELB |
262 |
238 |
24 |
|
TOTAL |
2513 |
1738 |
775 |
|
||||
2003/04 |
BELB |
377 |
249 |
128 |
|
WELB |
264 |
255 |
9 |
|
NEELB |
532 |
349 |
183 |
|
SEELB |
931 |
635 |
296 |
|
SELB |
337 |
256 |
81 |
|
TOTAL |
2441 |
1744 |
697 |
|
||||
2004/05 |
BELB |
318 |
271 |
47 |
|
WELB |
295 |
275 |
20 |
|
NEELB |
543 |
353 |
190 |
|
SEELB |
802 |
639 |
163 |
|
SELB |
248 |
224 |
24 |
|
TOTAL |
2206 |
1762 |
444 |
|
||||
2005/06 |
BELB |
237 |
235 |
2 |
|
WELB |
274 |
259 |
15 |
|
NEELB |
462 |
321 |
141 |
|
SEELB |
668 |
534 |
134 |
|
SELB |
274 |
253 |
21 |
|
TOTAL |
1915 |
1602 |
313 |
|
||||
2006/07 |
BELB |
318 |
270 |
48 |
|
WELB |
327 |
267 |
60 |
|
NEELB |
546 |
372 |
174 |
|
SEELB |
813 |
623 |
190 |
|
SELB |
304 |
249 |
55 |
|
TOTAL |
2308 |
1781 |
527 |
|
||||
2007/08 |
BELB |
242 |
242 |
0 |
|
WELB |
352 |
296 |
56 |
|
NEELB |
565 |
358 |
207 |
|
SEELB |
874 |
629 |
245 |
|
SELB |
240 |
211 |
29 |
|
TOTAL |
2273 |
1736 |
537 |
Home Schooling
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education how many reports, from Education Welfare Officers to the Curriculum Advisory Support Service in relation to concerns about the adequacy of the education provision to home schooled children, have been made in each of the last five years, and what action was taken by the CASS in response to those reports.
(AQW 7261/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tuigim, ó na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne, gur mar seo a leanas atá líon na dtuairiscí ón tSeirbhís Leasa Oideachais chuig Seirbhís Chomhairleach Taca an Churaclaim maidir le leorgacht sholáthar an oideachais do pháistí a fhaigheann oideachas sa bhaile:
I understand, from the Education and Library Boards, that the number of reports from the Education Welfare Service to the Curriculum Advisory Support Service in relation to the adequacy of education provision to home schooled children, is as follows:
|
No of Reports |
2003/04 |
n/a |
2004/05 |
2 |
2005/06 |
5 |
2006/07 |
3 |
2007/08 |
1 |
I am sure you will appreciate that, in the interests of confidentiality, I am not in a position to give you details of individual cases. However, when such reports have been made, Boards assessed the provision, offered advice, guidance and resources or sought a return to school.
Mobile Classrooms in Schools
Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each of the last 3 years, the cost of repairs to mobile classrooms, broken down by Education and Library Board.
(AQW 7263/08)
Ms C Ruane: An t-eolas ar chostas cóiriúchán ar sheomraí ranga ní dhéanann sé idirdhealú idir costais ranganna soghluaiste agus buana.
The information on costs of repairs to classrooms does not separately identify between the costs of repair to mobile and permanent classrooms.
Home Schooling
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education if she intends to bring forward any proposals to obligate parents to inform the relevant Library Board or her Department of their intention to home educate.
(AQW 7264/08)
Ms C Ruane: Níl aon phleananna agam faoi láthair moltaí ar bith a thabhairt chun tosaigh a chuirfeadh d’fhiacha ar thuismitheoirí a insint don Bhord ábhartha Oideachais agus Leabharlainne ná don Roinn go bhfuil rún acu oideachas sa bhaile a thabhairt.
I have no plans at present to bring forward any proposals to obligate parents to inform the relevant Education and Library Board or the Department of their intention to home educate.
Hearing Aid Training for Teachers
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education what training is provided to teachers on the use of (i) radio hearing aids; and (ii) other hearing aids, when teaching deaf and hard of hearing children.
(AQW 7270/08)
Ms C Ruane: I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the Education and Library Boards that there is no distinction between the training programme provided to staff who support children using radio hearing aids and those who support children wearing other hearing aids including speech processors for children with cochlear implants. The format of the training is essentially the same with the differences being in the information given relating to the specific type of hearing aid being used by the pupil.
The training programme which is delivered by a qualified Teacher of the Deaf (TOD) and in some instances, where appropriate, jointly with a member of the Cochlear Implant Service to both class teachers and classroom assistants generally includes elements of the following:-
- Information regarding the pupil’s hearing loss and the educational implications;
- Information relating to the pupil’s specific hearing aid as follows:-
- type ie analogue, digital, bone anchored, speech processors for use with cochlear implant, radio hearing aid;
- how it works (settings and programming);
- the difference it will make to the child/young person’s level of hearing ie benefits of wearing the hearing aid;
- ways of encouraging the child to wear his/her hearing aid;
- teaching strategies to enhance the use of hearing and radio aids;
- how to check that the ear mould is fitted correctly (if appropriate) and that the hearing aid is working properly; and
- managing, caring for and maintaining the hearing/radio aid. (A checklist is provided to school staff regarding this).
- Information indicating the features of a good listening environment.
Furthermore a range of information/leaflets relating to Hearing Aids is available from the qualified Teacher of the Deaf who carries out checks on the child’s hearing aid on an ongoing basis within the school environment using a test box to ensure that the radio aid and hearing aid are balanced.
The Teacher of the Deaf also maintains links with the Audiology Department in the local Hospital regarding the setting of the hearing aids and communicates relevant information to the class teacher/classroom assistant as well as with manufacturers of a range of Hearing Aids from whom they regularly receive training and updates regarding new products on the market.
Do na daltaí sin a fuair córais Soundfield leis an eolas ar an timpeallacht foghlama a mhéadú, tugtar oiliúint maidir lena n-úsáid.
For those pupils who have been provided with Soundfield systems to enhance the learning environment information, training is given regarding the use of these.
Qualified Peripatetic Teachers
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many teachers of deaf children are qualified peripatetic teachers, and how many are not.
(AQW 7271/08)
Ms C Ruane: Níl an t-eolas seo á choinneáil ag an Roinn in áit lárnach; ach maidir le ceisteanna den chineál seo roimhe, rinneadh teagmháil leis na 5 Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne agus le Comhairle na Scoileanna Caitliceacha faoi Chothabháil (CSCC) a fhostaíonn múinteoirí.
The Department does not hold this information centrally however in relation to similar previous questions contact was made with the 5 Education and Library Boards and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) who employ teachers.
The Chief Executives of the Southern and Western Education and Library Boards advised that there are 4 and 7 peripatetic teachers respectively who are employed and qualified in Sensory Impaired Services.
The Chief Executives of BELB, NEELB and SEELB the other remaining Education and Library Boards also CCMS have advised that they do not hold information that would allow them to identify any teachers qualified as sign language interpreters.
Primary Schools
Mr Spratt asked the Minister of Education for her plans for the future of (i) Fane Street Primary School, Belfast; (ii) Donegall Road Primary School, Belfast; and (iii) Blythefield Primary School, Belfast.
(AQW 7283/08)
Ms C Ruane: These are controlled schools within the remit of the Belfast Education and Library Board (BELB).
Tá comhairle tugtha ag BOLB gur tharla plé le gach ceann de na scoileanna seo, ag iarraidh a dtuairimí ar an bhealach chun tosaigh don oideachas sa cheantar seo de Bhéal Feirste. Níor tháinig an Bord go fóill ar aon chinneadh faoin bhealach chun tosaigh.
The BELB has advised that there have been discussions with each of these schools, seeking their views on the way forward for education in this area of Belfast. No decisions have yet been reached by the Board on the way forward.
Breakfast Clubs in Schools
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education what schools in the North Down parliamentary constituency receive funding for after-school or breakfast clubs, and how much funding is received in each case.
(AQW 7285/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Department does not collect information on specific extended school activities offered by individual schools. Reports provided by schools funded under the extended schools programme indicate that in the 2006/07 school year 192 schools operated breakfast clubs and 235 offered after-school activities. Details for 2007/08 are not yet available.
Leithdháileadh maoiniú faoin chlár scoileanna leathnaithe ar na scoileanna a leanas i dtoghlach parlaiminte Thuaisceart an Dúin:
The following schools in the North Down parliamentary constituency have been allocated funding under the extended schools programme:
Schools |
06/07 funding |
07/08 funding |
08/09 funding |
|---|---|---|---|
Millisle PS |
£17,451 |
£17,538 |
£2,297 (no longer eligible for full funding) |
Bloomfield PS, Bangor |
NIL |
NIL |
£16,867 (new school) |
Kilcooley PS, Bangor |
£15,550 |
£15,850 |
£10,934 (fully funded) |
St Anne’s PS, Donaghadee |
£6,800 |
£6,400 |
£1,090 (no longer eligible for full funding) |
Renewed Communities Funding
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education how much Renewed Communities Funding was received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 5 years.
(AQW 7294/08)
Ms C Ruane: Liostaíonn an Iarscríbhinn a leanas na bunscoileanna i dTuaisceart agus in Iarthar Bhéal Feirste a fuair maoiniú faoin chlár Athnuachana Pobal ona thionscnamh in 2006/07 go 2007/08; níl figiúirí do scoileanna aonair do 2008/09 fós ar fáil.
The attached Annex lists the primary schools in North and West Belfast that received funding under the Renewing Communities programme from its inception in 2006/07 to 2007/08, figures for individual schools for 2008/09 are not yet available.
Departmental Travel Expenses
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education (i) how many visits she has made outside Northern Ireland since devolution; (ii) the method and cost of transportation used per trip; and (iii) the type and cost of accommodation used on each trip, including details for accompanying officials.
(AQW 7302/08)
Ms C Ruane:
Ón chineachadh, thug mé 17 cuairt taobh amuigh de thuaisceart na hÉireann.
Since devolution I have made 17 visits outside the north of Ireland.
a) 12 journeys were made using the Ministerial car with no accommodation costs,
b) 1 journey was made using the Ministerial car with 5 hotel rooms booked totalling £624.30 (this includes costs for 3 DE officials and Ministers driver)
c) 1 journey was made using the Ministerial car with 4 hotel rooms booked totalling £300.00 (this includes costs for 2 DE officials and Ministers driver)
details of the remaining 3 journeys were as follows:
d) 5 return flights @ £56.60 per person and 5 hotel rooms @ 120euros per room (this includes costs for 4 DE officials)
e) 3 return flights @ £68.20 per person and 3 hotel rooms @ £93.61 per room (this includes costs for 2 DE officials)
f) 1 return flight @ £63.50
Sign Language
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education how many teachers of deaf children have qualifications in sign language, and at what level.
(AQW 7305/08)
Ms C Ruane: Níl an t-eolas seo á choinneáil ag an Roinn in áit lárnach; ach maidir le ceisteanna den chineál seo roimhe, rinneadh teagmháil leis na 5 Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne agus le Comhairle na Scoileanna Caitliceacha faoi Chothabháil (CSCC) a fhostaíonn múinteoirí.
The Department does not hold this information centrally however in relation to similar previous questions contact was made with the 5 Education and Library Boards and the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) who employ teachers.
The Chief Executives of the Southern and Western Education and Library Boards advised that there are 4 and 7 peripatetic teachers respectively who are employed and qualified in Sensory Impaired Services.
The Chief Executives of BELB, NEELB and SEELB the other remaining Education and Library Boards also CCMS have advised that they do not hold information that would allow them to identify any teachers qualified as sign language interpreters.
Funding for Community and Voluntary Groups
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Education how many community and voluntary groups her Department is currently funding; the amount of funding given to each project; and where these projects are based.
(AQW 7314/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Department of Education has allocated funding directly to 36 community and voluntary groups to date in the 2008/09 year.
Liostaíonn an tábla thíos na tograí aonair atá ag fáil maoinithe, méid an mhaoinithe agus a suíomh:
The table below lists the individual projects in receipt of funding, the amount of funding and their location:
Project
|
£ |
Location |
|---|---|---|
Antrim Business Education Partnership |
680 |
Antrim |
Ballymena Business Education Partnership |
3,474 |
Ballymena |
Banbridge Business Education Partnership |
2,371 |
Hillsborough |
Belfast YMCA |
46,405 |
Belfast |
BESS Business Education Partnership |
7,400 |
Belfast |
Bytes Project – Community Relations |
25,560 |
Belfast |
Bytes Project – Youth |
275,000 |
Belfast & Derry |
Children’s Project NI |
70,942 |
Belfast |
Coleraine Business Education Partnership |
15,993 |
Coleraine |
Community Relations in Schools |
135,914 |
Belfast |
Co-operation Ireland |
33,857 |
Belfast |
Corrymeela |
52,648 |
Belfast |
Craigavon Business Education Partnership |
4,750 |
Portadown |
Creggan Education & Research Services |
36,454 |
Omagh |
Down Business Education Partnership |
9,363 |
Castlewellan |
Dungannon & Cookstown Business Education Partnership |
17,872 |
Dungannon |
Forthspring Inter-Community Group |
23,300 |
Belfast |
Harmony Community Trust |
59,209 |
Strangford |
Kids Stop 1 |
8,000 |
Donaghmore |
Kilcranny House |
18,924 |
Coleraine |
Lisburn Business Education Partnership |
9,074 |
Dunmurry |
Millennium Volunteers |
332,000 |
Belfast |
Nerve Centre (The) |
11,612 |
Derry |
NI Children’s Enterprise |
26,321 |
Belfast |
NI Children’s Holidays Scheme |
52,505 |
Belfast |
NI Council for Integrated Education |
39,673 |
Belfast |
NIPPA - Early Years Organisation |
64,273 |
Belfast |
North Belfast Business Education Partnership |
7,564 |
Belfast |
Omagh, Strabane & Fermanagh Business Education Partnership |
6,375 |
Omagh |
Panarts |
37,238 |
Belfast |
Prince’s Trust |
176,000 |
Belfast |
Public Achievement |
32,114 |
Belfast |
REACT |
27,487 |
Kilkeel |
Spirit Of Enniskillen Trust |
117,221 |
Belfast |
Verbal Arts Centre (NI) Ltd. |
74,796 |
Derry |
Youth Link |
69,702 |
Belfast |
1 Funded until June 2008
Bookstart Scheme
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education what financial assistance has been offered or given to the Bookstart scheme by her Department.
(AQW 7317/08)
Ms C Ruane: Le linn na tréimhse 2002/06 sholáthair an Roinn Oideachais maoiniú iomlán £390k do scéim Bookstart. Tá maoiniú breise á bhreithniú mar chuid den straitéis leasaithe litearthachta.
During the period 2002/06 the Department of Education provided total funding of £390k for the Bookstart scheme. Further funding is being considered as part of the revised literacy strategy.
School Improvement Programme Funding
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education what School Improvement Programme funding was received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7332/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá mionsonraí ar mhaoiniú ón Chlár Feabhsaithe Scoileanna a fuair scoileanna i dTuaisceart agus in Iarthar Bhéal Feirste i ngach ceann de na 3 bliana a ghabh tharainn leagtha amach in Iarscríbhinní A agus B faoi seach
Details of School Improvement Programme funding received by schools in North and West Belfast in each of the last 3 years is set out in Annexes A and B respectively.
Annex A
Primary Schools in North Belfast
School |
2005-06 |
2006-07 |
2007-08 |
Currie PS |
£82450 |
0 |
0 |
Seaview PS |
£2000 |
£3600 |
0 |
Carr’s Glen PS |
0 |
£6000 |
£2760 |
Grove PS |
£45000 |
£50000 |
£9000 |
Edenbrooke PS |
£42700 |
£36000 |
£11500 |
Ballysillan PS |
£7927 |
0 |
0 |
Cliftonville PS |
0 |
£6000 |
£4055 |
Lowwood PS |
£9000 |
0 |
0 |
Holy Cross Boys’ PS |
£26958 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
Our Lady of Lourdes PS |
£4000 |
£9600 |
£6000 |
Our Lady’s Girls’ PS |
£16000 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
Edmund Rice (CB) PS |
£12000 |
0 |
0 |
Holy Cross Girls’ PS |
£14000 |
0 |
0 |
Mercy PS |
£12700 |
£17300 |
£8162 |
St Mary’s Star of the Sea PS |
£4200 |
0 |
0 |
St Therese of Lisieux PS |
£14500 |
£11300 |
£8162 |
Star of the Sea Girls’ PS |
£4500 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
Sacred Heart PS |
0 |
£12000 |
0 |
Holy Family PS |
£10000 |
£11800 |
£6599 |
Rathcoole PS |
£56000 |
£23000 |
£10500 |
Annex B
Primary Schools in West Belfast
School |
2005-06 |
2006-07 |
2007-08 |
Springhill PS |
£5000 |
£13700 |
£8162 |
Blackmountain PS |
£2500 |
0 |
0 |
Malvern PS |
£2000 |
£4700 |
£4063 |
Harmony PS |
0 |
£11800 |
£5428 |
St Aidan’s Christian Brothers PS |
£17750 |
0 |
0 |
St Bernadette’s PS |
£22250 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
St Mary’s PS, Divis St |
£92000 |
£58608 |
£12500 |
St Kevin’s PS |
£27000 |
£21600 |
£10140 |
St Teresa’s PS |
£30700 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
St Oliver Plunkett PS |
£12700 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
St Peter’s PS |
£24700 |
£12000 |
£5000 |
St Joseph’s PS, Slate St |
£26611 |
£12600 |
£6000 |
St Paul’s PS |
£17750 |
0 |
0 |
St Mark’s PS |
£8500 |
£2200 |
£2300 |
The Good Shepherd PS |
£5000 |
£2080 |
0 |
St Kieran’s PS |
0 |
£4800 |
£2300 |
Our Lady Queen of Peace PS |
£5800 |
0 |
0 |
Scoil Na Fuiseoige |
0 |
£3000 |
0 |
Extended Schools Programme
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education what Extended Schools Funding was received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7333/08)
Ms C Ruane: The attached Annex lists the primary schools in North and West Belfast and the Extended Schools funding allocated to them in each of the last two years and provisional allocations for 2008/09 based on the assumption that all schools will cluster (ie work in partnership with 2 other schools) and attract a cluster incentive allowance of 40%.
As you are aware I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. Despite finding efficiencies from other areas I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.
I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents.
Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.
I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.
|
|
|
|
Annex 1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
School Name |
Extended Schools Funding 2006/07 |
Extended Schools Funding 2007/08 |
Extended Schools Funding 2008/09 |
|
|
£ |
£ |
£ |
|
Ballygolan PS |
19,004 |
14,800 |
10,850 |
|
Ballysillan PS |
18,314 |
17,796 |
11,270 |
|
Carr's Glen PS |
30,763 |
29,871 |
17,794 |
|
Cavehill PS |
0 |
0 |
18,529 |
|
Cliftonville PS |
22,971 |
21,074 |
12,782 |
|
Currie PS |
16,330 |
16,589 |
10,766 |
|
Edenbrooke PS |
22,368 |
22,195 |
13,160 |
|
Glenwood PS |
33,465 |
33,753 |
20,587 |
|
Grove PS |
15,295 |
15,295 |
9,464 |
|
Ligoniel PS |
14,950 |
15,295 |
10,304 |
|
Lowwood PS |
23,403 |
24,840 |
14,945 |
|
Seaview PS |
29,756 |
29,153 |
8,418 |
|
Wheatfield PS |
22,195 |
20,729 |
13,118 |
|
Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagain |
18,314 |
15,550 |
10,598 |
|
Edmund Rice PS |
30,705 |
30,274 |
17,857 |
|
Holy Cross Boys PS |
30,849 |
30,705 |
18,424 |
|
Holy Cross Girls PS |
19,349 |
19,435 |
11,858 |
|
Holy Family PS |
26,925 |
27,375 |
19,264 |
|
Mercy PS |
26,680 |
25,588 |
14,875 |
|
Our Lady of Lourdes PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Our Lady's PS |
30,446 |
30,360 |
17,731 |
|
Sacred Heart PS |
27,313 |
25,645 |
14,840 |
|
St Mary's Star of the Sea PS |
21,419 |
18,100 |
12,446 |
|
St Therese of Lisieux PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
St Vincent de Paul PS |
23,489 |
23,690 |
14,420 |
|
Star of the Sea PS |
29,986 |
29,814 |
17,430 |
|
Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain |
9,545 |
9,500 |
8,176 |
|
Hazelwood Int PS |
14,695 |
14,685 |
20,720 |
|
Blackmountain PS |
16,244 |
16,158 |
10,262 |
|
Forth River PS |
22,540 |
23,403 |
14,000 |
|
Harmony PS |
23,633 |
23,863 |
14,245 |
|
Malvern PS |
15,554 |
16,158 |
10,472 |
|
Springfield PS |
13,685 |
11,845 |
7,952 |
|
Springhill PS |
29,756 |
28,348 |
16,380 |
|
Suffolk PS |
0 |
0 |
9,352 |
|
Vere Foster PS |
16,848 |
15,123 |
8,736 |
|
Bunscoil an tsléibhe Dhuibh |
20,298 |
21,505 |
12,656 |
|
Bunscoil Phobal Feirste |
25,600 |
24,775 |
16,573 |
|
Gaelscoil na bhfál |
24,553 |
24,323 |
7,193 |
|
Holy Child PS |
36,363 |
31,260 |
21,672 |
|
St Aidan's PS |
24,380 |
23,805 |
12,992 |
|
St Bernadette's PS |
25,128 |
24,265 |
13,412 |
|
St John the Baptist Boys PS |
27,600 |
26,525 |
17,941 |
|
St John the Baptist Girls PS |
26,300 |
25,725 |
17,045 |
|
St Mary's PS |
15,381 |
17,365 |
10,472 |
|
St Kevin's PS |
33,580 |
33,321 |
20,664 |
|
St Oliver Plunkett PS |
31,890 |
31,720 |
22,652 |
|
St Teresa's PS |
29,175 |
28,750 |
19,432 |
|
Holy Trinity PS |
36,306 |
36,754 |
23,030 |
|
St Joseph's PS |
27,140 |
26,450 |
15,365 |
|
St Paul's PS |
26,335 |
27,140 |
15,820 |
|
St Peter's PS |
31,021 |
30,073 |
17,465 |
|
Gaelscoil an Lonnáin |
7,590 |
8,510 |
6,664 |
|
Gaelscoil na Móna |
8,625 |
11,040 |
8,232 |
|
Gaelscoil an Damba |
6,555 |
6,555 |
5,824 |
|
St Clare's PS |
34,144 |
34,144 |
20,734 |
|
|
1,214,753 |
1,191,014 |
767,863 |
|
Maintenance Funding in Primary Schools
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education what Maintenance Funding was received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7335/08)
Ms C Ruane: Mionsonraíonn na táblaí a leanas costas cothabhála gach bunscoil (i) i dTuaisceart Bhéal Feirste; agus (ii) in Iarthar Bhéal Feirste, i ngach ceann de na 3 bliana a ghabh tharainn.
The following tables detail expenditure on maintenance in each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 3 years.
NORTH BELFAST
| SCHOOL NAME | 2005/06 | 2006/07 | 2007/08 |
|---|---|---|---|
| (£) | (£) | (£) | |
| Abbots Cross PS | 4,658 |
1,464 |
4,122 |
| Ballygolan PS | 18,201 |
20,415 |
10,564 |
| Ballysillan PS | 10,805 |
12,646 |
23,871 |
| Ben Madigan Prep School | 0 |
0 |
0 |
| Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagain PS | 8,898 |
3,244 |
3,333 |
| Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain | 5,272 |
2,370 |
4,795 |
| Carr’s Glen PS | 19,435 |
8,367 |
31,857 |
| Cavehill PS | 6,996 |
9,111 |
20,931 |
| Cliftonville PS | 22,626 |
17,302 |
32,076 |
| Currie PS | 2,611 |
3,015 |
6,140 |
| Edenbrooke PS | 17,976 |
9,096 |
6,251 |
| Edmund Rice (CB) PS | 3,693 |
16,603 |
18,230 |
| Glenwood PS | 19,327 |
13,581 |
12,631 |
| Grove PS | 19,178 |
16,910 |
22,823 |
| Hazelwood IPS | 10,366 |
26,366 |
29,610 |
| Holy Cross Boys’ PS | 23,332 |
16,583 |
35,702 |
| Holy Cross Girls’ PS | 14,994 |
8,932 |
6,587 |
| Holy Family PS | 41,104 |
37,367 |
37,188 |
| Ligoniel PS | 21,489 |
18,345 |
14,639 |
| Lowwood PS | 5,297 |
8,279 |
7,839 |
| Mercy PS | 15,324 |
13,425 |
12,500 |
| Our Lady of Lourdes PS | 22,542 |
31,880 |
138,656 |
| Our Lady’s Girls’ PS | 5,640 |
8,114 |
27,532 |
| Rathcoole PS | 2,048 |
3,897 |
3,537 |
| Sacred Heart PS | 8,906 |
20,618 |
85,181 |
| Seaview PS | 30,198 |
13,804 |
19,105 |
| St Mary’s Star of the Sea PS | 12,331 |
21,270 |
98,253 |
| St Therese of Lisieux PS | 7,944 |
12,028 |
8,725 |
| St Vincent de Paul PS | 10,883 |
6,125 |
29,574 |
| Star of the Sea Girls’ PS | 14,094 |
7,655 |
6,428 |
| Wheatfield PS | 22,204 |
9,321 |
26,941 |
| Whitehouse PS | 34,417 |
8,831 |
7,741 |
WEST BELFAST
SCHOOL NAME |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
2007/08 |
|---|---|---|---|
(£) |
(£) |
(£) |
|
Bunscoil an Tsleibhe Dhuibh |
1,498 |
2,190 |
5,930 |
Bunscoil Phobal Feirste |
7,796 |
3,593 |
106,296 |
Forthriver PS |
12,890 |
57,685 |
4,410 |
Gaelscoil an Damba |
849 |
1,691 |
3,381 |
Gaelscoil an Lonnan |
471 |
3,731 |
1,776 |
Gaelscoil na Bhfal |
9,618 |
9,910 |
3,939 |
Gaelscoil na Mona |
978 |
1,418 |
1,628 |
Harmony PS |
12,988 |
15,137 |
19,170 |
Holy Child PS |
38,674 |
33,904 |
31,123 |
Holy Trinity PS |
40,539 |
69,188 |
80,207 |
Malvern PS |
10,817 |
7,075 |
13,487 |
Our Lady Queen of Peace PS |
8,738 |
5,526 |
4,107 |
Scoil na Fuiseoige |
1,954 |
1,525 |
1,788 |
Springfield PS |
6,436 |
6,090 |
7,400 |
Springhill PS |
13,289 |
12,114 |
7,500 |
St Aidan’s CB PS |
17,493 |
10,702 |
10,613 |
St Bernadettes PS |
14,117 |
16,523 |
18,657 |
St Clare’s PS |
2,442 |
12,880 |
25,388 |
St John the Baptist Boys’ PS |
31,801 |
16,451 |
23,390 |
St John the Baptist Girls’ PS |
12,217 |
17,971 |
22,017 |
St Joseph’s PS |
11,121 |
15,692 |
9,814 |
St Kevin’s PS |
7,263 |
7,358 |
11,052 |
St Kieran’s PS |
14,344 |
6,350 |
30,400 |
St Luke’s PS |
10,762 |
14,317 |
43,666 |
St Mark’s PS |
28,918 |
33,406 |
44,279 |
St Mary’s PS |
7,620 |
13,975 |
2,644 |
St Oliver Plunkett PS |
32,692 |
26,654 |
139,905 |
St Paul’s PS |
32,601 |
9,169 |
82,934 |
St Peter’s PS |
8,206 |
18,817 |
13,768 |
St Teresa’s PS |
23,244 |
18,902 |
17,675 |
Suffolk PS |
16,625 |
13,203 |
19,711 |
The Good Shepherd PS |
13,107 |
24,978 |
33,823 |
Vere Foster PS |
20,423 |
24,285 |
24,592 |
Teacher Training for Deaf Children
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education what special training in teaching hearing-impaired children is provided to teachers in (i) mainstream schools; (ii) special schools that cater for children with hearing difficulties; and (iii) Jordanstown school.
(AQW 7355/08)
Ms C Ruane: To ensure that teachers of the deaf receive appropriate in-service training, the Department of Education resources the education and library boards to fund a number of places on a course, which is mandatory for those teachers of the deaf who are employed by schools or boards. Candidates for this training must meet certain criteria set by the Department of Education.
I have also been advised by the Chief Executives of the Education and Library Boards that training for teachers in mainstream and special schools that cater for children with hearing difficulties is provided by qualified Teachers of the Deaf (TOD) working within the Boards’ Sensory Support Services.
Some examples of training for class teachers supporting deaf children within mainstream and special schools that cater for children with hearing difficulties are as follows:-
- in-school training as requested, the focus of which is determined by the needs of the individual school in consultation with the teacher of the deaf;
- Transition training (this may be for all school staff or identified group) to support children transferring from one setting to another e.g. primary to post-primary;
- In-Service Education of Teachers (INSET) training delivered at Board Out-centres and available to all schools; a
- training in the use and maintenance of audiological equipment;
- ongoing informal training in the form of advice and support.
With regard to Jordanstown school I have been advised by the Chief Executive of the North – Eastern Education and Library Board that the following specialist training opportunities are available in addition to the mandatory training for TOD:-
- financial assistance to enable all staff to attend Council for the Advancement of Communication with Deaf People (CACDP) sign language courses at all levels;
- sign language development on a daily basis and during planned in-house staff training days from the sign language assistant employed and financed by Board of Trustees;
- deaf awareness training;
- awareness raising and formalised training on management and use of assistive technology for the deaf e.g. hearing aids, FM systems, cochlear implants, delivered by school’s teachers of the deaf, personnel from RVH Cochlear implant centre and audiology clinic;
- in-house INSET on the annual review and transitions process / procedures.
- Team teach training;
- attendance at seminars organised by the British Association of Teachers of the Deaf (BATOD) and other specialist organisations;
- liaison with organisations for the deaf;
- access to the specialist Mental Health and Deafness team for the North of Ireland.
Cuireann an scoil ar fáil freisin breathnú / socrúcháin mhúinteoireachta do mhúinteoirí eile a bheadh ag tabhairt faoin cháilíocht TOD agus do dhaoine óga ar mian leo gairm a leanúint ag obair le daoine bodhra agus á dteagasc.
The school also provides observation / teaching placements for other teachers undertaking the TOD qualification and young people who wish to pursue a career in working with / teaching the deaf.
Entrance Examinations for Grammar Schools
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education which grammar schools have not indicated they intend to set their own entrance exams.
(AQW 7359/08)
Ms C Ruane: Aon scoil ghramadaí amháin (as 69) a chuir in iúl don Roinn go bhfuil rún aici a teist iontrála féin a oibriú dá dtarlódh tréimhse dhírialúcháin. Más fíor do thuairiscí sa phreas agus ráitis ó chomhlachtaí eile, d’fhógair scoileanna eile gramadaí a spéis i socrú a gcuid scrúduithe féin.
Only one grammar school (from 69) has indicated to the Department that it intends to operate its own entrance test if there should be a period of un-regulation. Other grammar schools, according to press reports and the statements of other bodies, have declared an interest in setting their own examinations.
Curriculum Reserve Funding
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education how much Curriculum Reserve Funding was received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7361/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an Formhaoiniú Curaclaim Cúltaca a fuair gach bunscoil (i) i dTuaisceart Bhéal Feirste; agus (ii) in Iarthar Bhéal Feirste le linn na tréimhse 3 bliana 2004/05 go 2006/07, leagtha amach sna táblaí thíos:
The Curriculum Reserve Support Funding received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast during the 3 year period 2004/05 to 2006/07 is set out in the tables below:
North Belfast Primary Schools |
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
Primary School |
2004/05 Curriculum Reserve Funding £ |
2005/06 Curriculum Reserve Funding £ |
2006/07 Curriculum Reserve Funding £ |
Abbots Cross PS |
5,000 |
4,000 |
5,000 |
Ballygolan PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Ballysillan PS |
21000 |
19000 |
1000 |
Bunscoil Bheann Mhadagain |
0 |
9500 |
0 |
Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain |
0 |
5700 |
0 |
Carr's Glen PS |
0 |
19000 |
5600 |
Cavehill PS |
0 |
0 |
1000 |
Cliftonville PS |
10500 |
0 |
5600 |
Currie PS |
10500 |
19000 |
0 |
Edenbrooke PS |
0 |
9500 |
0 |
Edmund Rice PS |
0 |
19000 |
14000 |
Glenwood PS |
0 |
0 |
5600 |
Grove PS |
0 |
9500 |
5600 |
Hazelwood Integrated PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Holy Cross Boys PS |
21000 |
14250 |
5600 |
Holy Cross Girls PS |
0 |
9500 |
5600 |
Holy Family PS |
21000 |
0 |
16800 |
Ligoniel PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Lowwood PS |
0 |
9500 |
0 |
Mercy PS |
0 |
19000 |
5600 |
Our Lady of Lourdes PS |
0 |
9500 |
0 |
Our Lady's PS |
0 |
0 |
5600 |
Rathcoole PS |
0 |
8,000 |
0 |
Sacred Heart PS |
0 |
0 |
22400 |
Seaview PS |
10500 |
0 |
11200 |
St Mary's Star of the Sea PS |
10500 |
38000 |
0 |
St Therese of Lisieux PS |
0 |
28500 |
0 |
St Vincent de Paul PS |
0 |
9500 |
0 |
Star of the Sea PS |
0 |
0 |
11200 |
Wheatfield PS |
3000 |
1000 |
0 |
Whitehouse PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Total |
113,000 |
260,950 |
127,400 |
West Belfast Primary Schools |
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
Primary School |
2004/05 Curriculum Reserve Funding £ |
2005/06 Curriculum Reserve Funding £ |
2006/07 Curriculum Reserve Funding £ |
Blackmountain PS |
0 |
9,500 |
0 |
Bunscoil an tsleibhe Dhuibh |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Bunscoil Phobal Feirste |
0 |
0 |
7,840 |
Christ the Redeemer |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Forth River PS |
3,000 |
0 |
0 |
Gaelscoil an Damba |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Gaelscoil an Lonnáin |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Gaelscoil na bhfál |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Gaelscoil na Móna |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Good Shepherd PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Harmony PS |
0 |
0 |
11,200 |
Holy Child PS |
21,000 |
0 |
0 |
Holy Trinity PS |
31,500 |
19,000 |
0 |
Malvern PS |
5,250 |
0 |
5,600 |
Our Lady Queen of Peace |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Scoil na Fuiseoige |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Springfield PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Springhill PS |
3,000 |
19,000 |
5,600 |
St Aidan's PS |
0 |
19,000 |
11,200 |
St Bernadette's PS |
8,010 |
0 |
0 |
St Clare's PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
St John the Baptist Boys PS |
31,500 |
19,000 |
16,800 |
St John the Baptist Girls PS |
10,500 |
19,000 |
0 |
St Joseph's PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
St Kevin's PS |
21,000 |
0 |
11,200 |
St Kieran's PS |
15,000 |
0 |
0 |
St Luke's PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
St Mark's PS |
25,000 |
0 |
0 |
St Mary's PS |
0 |
0 |
0 |
St Oliver Plunkett PS |
0 |
9,500 |
0 |
St Paul's PS |
16,020 |
9,500 |
0 |
St Peter's PS |
0 |
14,250 |
16,800 |
St Teresa's PS |
10,500 |
19,000 |
11,200 |
Suffolk PS |
10,500 |
9,500 |
0 |
Vere Foster PS |
10,500 |
19,000 |
0 |
Total |
222,280 |
185,250 |
97,440 |
Bain Review
Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Education what are the current enrolment figures for each school in the Upper Bann constituency; and if the recommendations of the Bain Review are to stand, how many of these schools face closure.
(AQW 7372/08)
Ms C Ruane: The 2007/08 enrolment for each grant-aided Primary, Post-primary and Special school in the Upper Bann constituency is given in the tables below. The Bain Review enrolment thresholds of 105 and 140 pupils for rural and urban primaries respectively, 500 pupils for Year 8-12 post-primaries and 100 pupils for sixth forms.
Tá molta go ndéanfaí todhchaí scoileanna ar thit a rollú faoi na tairseacha seo a athbhreithniú. Níl aon rún ann go ndruidfí scoileanna ar an ábhar amháin go bhfuil a rollú faoi thairseacha Bain.
It recommended that the future of schools whose enrolments fell below these thresholds should be reviewed. There is no intention to close schools simply because enrolments are below Bain thresholds. Such schools should be considered sensitively on a case-by-case basis, taking account of the particular local circumstances. The overriding consideration is the quality of education provided to children.
Primary Schools in the Upper Bann Constituency 2007/08
School Name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
MILLTOWN PS |
62 |
SCARVA PS |
65 |
ST MARY'S PS |
70 |
ST MARY'S PS |
75 |
BIRCHES PS |
77 |
ST COLMAN'S (BANN) PS |
90 |
RICHMOUNT PS |
102 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
104 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
105 |
CRAIGAVON PS |
110 |
ST MARY'S PS |
124 |
ST JOHN'S PS |
128 |
ST FRANCIS' PS, AGHHDERG |
141 |
MOYALLON PS |
164 |
ST TERESA'S PS |
209 |
DONACLONEY PS |
218 |
MARALIN VILLAGE PS |
221 |
WARINGSTOWN PS |
381 |
BLEARY PS |
83 |
DICKSON PS |
144 |
PRESENTATION PS |
152 |
TULLYGALLY PS |
155 |
LURGAN MODEL PS |
192 |
PORTADOWN INTEGRATED PS |
228 |
DRUMGOR PS |
245 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
246 |
BOCOMBRA PS |
264 |
BALLYORAN PS |
269 |
SEAGOE PS |
276 |
HART MEMORIAL PS |
308 |
EDENDERRY PS |
336 |
CARRICK PS |
353 |
ABERCORN PS |
359 |
ST JOHN THE BAPTIST PS |
375 |
ST BRENDAN'S PS |
391 |
ST MARY'S PS |
392 |
BRIDGE INTEGRATED PS |
407 |
EDENDERRY PS |
421 |
ST ANTHONY'S PS |
534 |
MILLINGTON PS |
557 |
KING'S PARK PS |
590 |
TANNAGHMORE PS |
691 |
ST FRANCIS PS |
762 |
Post-Primary Schools in the Upper Bann Constituency 2007/08
School Name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
DRUMCREE COLLEGE |
276 |
LURGAN COLLEGE |
430 |
BROWNLOW INT COLLEGE |
436 |
ST PATRICK'S COLLEGE |
440 |
KILLICOMAINE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL |
449 |
ST PAUL'S JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL |
483 |
ST MICHAEL'S GRAMMAR |
570 |
ST MARY'S HIGH SCHOOL |
577 |
BANBRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL |
651 |
CLOUNAGH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL |
653 |
CRAIGAVON SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL |
661 |
LURGAN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL |
670 |
PORTADOWN COLLEGE |
772 |
LISMORE COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL |
1,073 |
BANBRIDGE ACADEMY |
1,312 |
NEW-BRIDGE INTEGRATED COLLEGE |
516 |
Special Schools in the Upper Bann Constituency 2007/08
School Name |
Enrolment |
|---|---|
DONARD SPECIAL SCHOOL |
43 |
CEARA SPECIAL SCHOOL |
92 |
Transport Providers for Schools
Mr McGlone asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 5884/08, what evidence transport providers are obliged to supply to Education and Library Boards of their Employer Liability Cover.
(AQW 7377/08)
Ms C Ruane: Cé go bhfuil dualgas ar na hoibreoirí uilig a fhostaíonn baill nach den teaghlach iad, árachas dliteanas fostóra a bheith acu, tá comhairle tugtha ag na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne nach gcaithfidh siad fianaise air seo a chur i láthair na mBord.
The Education and Library Boards have advised that, while all operators who employ non-family members are required to have employer liability insurance, they are not required to present evidence of this to the Boards. Instead, operators sign a declaration that states that they consent to a Board’s terms and conditions which includes a clause on employer liability insurance.
Assaults on School Teachers
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to introduce a policy to tackle the number of assaults on teachers in schools.
(AQW 7411/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá pleananna ag mo Roinn, i gcomhar le réimse lucht leasmhar ina bhfuil ceardchumainn múinteoiri agus údaráis fostaíochta, ceardlann a reáchtáil san fhómhar le fadhb dhrochíde choirp agus drochíde eile mhúinteoirí a bhreithniú. Athbhreithneoidh an cheardlann fianaise faoi scála na faidhbe agus faoi leithead agus leorgacht na treorach reatha.
My Department, in conjunction with a range of stakeholders including the teacher unions and employing authorities, plans to hold a workshop in the autumn to consider the problem of physical and other abuse of teachers. The workshop will review evidence about the scale of the problem and the extent and adequacy of existing guidance.
Review of Special Needs and Inclusion
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education what was the cost of carrying out the 'Review of Special Educational Needs and Inclusion'.
(AQW 7412/08)
Ms C Ruane: Is é costas an Athbhreithnithe go nuige seo £323, 142.50.
The cost of the Review to date is £323, 142.50.
This is inclusive of expenses for pre-consultation with parents, children and young people, meetings of the Advisory Groups of a range of stakeholders in the statutory and voluntary sectors and meetings of the Steering Group, as well as the salaries of the small review team of staff working within the Department.
Extra Qualifications of Teachers in Special Schools
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education how many teachers currently teaching in special schools have additional qualifications in special education; and to detail what these additional qualifications are.
(AQW 7463/08)
Ms C Ruane: There are 855 teachers employed in Special Schools in the North of Ireland and all are eligible to teach in accordance the Teachers' (Eligibility) Regulations (NI) 1997.
Costas díréireach an toradh a bheadh ar chleachtadh le mionsonraí ar na cáilíochtaí breise a bheadh ag daoine a sholáthar .
An exercise to provide details on additional qualifications held would result in a disproportionate cost.
Free School Meals
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education how many pupils are currently entitled to free school meals; and the percentage of the school population that this represents, for each primary school in the North Down constituency.
(AQW 7541/08)
Ms C Ruane:
Mar a leanas atá an t-eolas atá á iarraidh:
The information requested is as follows:
Free school meal entitlement 1 in primary schools 2 in the North Down constituency area 2007/08
DENI Ref |
School name |
No of pupils entitled to free school meals |
Total enrolment |
% of pupils entitled to free school meals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4011265 |
BALLYVESTER PS |
* |
67 |
* |
4011631 |
HOLYWOOD PS |
26 |
332 |
7.8 |
4011645 |
CRAWFORDSBURN PS |
16 |
188 |
8.5 |
4011650 |
BALLYHOLME PS |
23 |
600 |
3.8 |
4011654 |
DONAGHADEE PS |
35 |
418 |
8.4 |
4011670 |
CLANDEBOYE PS |
41 |
188 |
21.8 |
4011681 |
MILLISLE PS |
24 |
146 |
16.4 |
4011688 |
REDBURN PS |
19 |
83 |
22.9 |
4013023 |
BLOOMFIELD ROAD PS |
113 |
307 |
36.8 |
4013032 |
CONLIG PS |
10 |
43 |
23.3 |
4013045 |
GRANGE PARK PS |
15 |
364 |
4.1 |
4016002 |
KILCOOLEY PS |
84 |
127 |
66.1 |
4016067 |
RATHMORE PS |
25 |
482 |
5.2 |
4016111 |
TOWERVIEW PS |
20 |
385 |
5.2 |
4016192 |
KILMAINE PS |
18 |
654 |
2.8 |
4016430 |
BALLYMAGEE PS |
23 |
404 |
5.7 |
4031628 |
ST PATRICK'S PS |
12 |
237 |
5.1 |
4033008 |
ST ANNE'S PS |
* |
34 |
* |
4036146 |
ST COMGALL'S PS |
13 |
286 |
4.5 |
4036148 |
ST MALACHY'S PS |
62 |
321 |
19.3 |
4051680 |
BANGOR CENTRAL PS |
99 |
562 |
17.6 |
4053020 |
GLENCRAIG PS |
* |
228 |
* |
4610097 |
GLENLOLA COLLEGIATE PREP. DEPT. |
* |
76 |
* |
4620015 |
BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL PREP. DEPT. |
0 |
137 |
0.0 |
4620044 |
SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL PREP. DEPT. |
0 |
184 |
0.0 |
Source: NI school census 2007/08
1 Free school meal entitlement for nursery class pupils measured as those children who have a parent in receipt of Income Support or Job Seeker's Allowance or who are recorded as entitled to free school meals.
2 Includes pupils in nursery, reception and year 1 - year 7 classes where applicable.
* relates to less than 5 cases.
Primary School Figures in Derry/Londonderry
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education how many pupils were enrolled at each primary school in the city of Derry/Londonderry, in each of the last 5 years, broken down by sector.
(AQW 7610/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sa tábla thíos.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
Pupil enrolments at each primary 1 school (PS) in the Derry area 2 – Last five years.
School name |
management type |
pupils in 2003/04 |
pupils in 2004/05 |
pupils in 2005/06 |
pupils in 2006/07 |
pupils in 2007/08 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ASHLEA PS |
Controlled |
112 |
97 |
98 |
91 |
90 |
BALLOUGRY PS |
Controlled |
60 |
68 |
66 |
69 |
71 |
CULMORE PS |
Controlled |
79 |
75 |
75 |
72 |
75 |
DRUMAHOE PS |
Controlled |
261 |
270 |
273 |
264 |
245 |
EBRINGTON CONTROLLED PS |
Controlled |
459 |
438 |
426 |
422 |
421 |
FOUNTAIN PS |
Controlled |
120 |
129 |
111 |
112 |
92 |
GREENHAW PS |
Controlled |
267 |
283 |
272 |
275 |
288 |
GROARTY PS |
Controlled |
46 |
47 |
n.a. |
n.a. |
n.a. |
LISNAGELVIN PS |
Controlled |
540 |
524 |
554 |
553 |
532 |
DERRY MODEL PS |
Controlled |
335 |
325 |
317 |
333 |
343 |
BUNSCOIL CHOLMCILLE |
Catholic Maintained |
189 |
185 |
173 |
163 |
159 |
CHAPEL ROAD PS |
Catholic Maintained |
136 |
156 |
157 |
151 |
166 |
GOOD SHEPHERD PS |
Catholic Maintained |
435 |
442 |
443 |
451 |
445 |
HOLLYBUSH PS |
Catholic Maintained |
341 |
354 |
374 |
425 |
427 |
HOLY CHILD PS |
Catholic Maintained |
316 |
297 |
293 |
287 |
285 |
HOLY FAMILY PS |
Catholic Maintained |
513 |
465 |
446 |
448 |
433 |
LONGTOWER PS |
Catholic Maintained |
378 |
332 |
316 |
311 |
296 |
NAZARETH HOUSE PS |
Catholic Maintained |
351 |
346 |
330 |
331 |
309 |
ROSEMOUNT PS |
Catholic Maintained |
318 |
299 |
292 |
284 |
271 |
ST ANNE'S PS |
Catholic Maintained |
590 |
570 |
546 |
533 |
515 |
ST BRIGID'S PS |
Catholic Maintained |
349 |
338 |
335 |
343 |
339 |
ST EITHNE'S PS |
Catholic Maintained |
501 |
552 |
529 |
516 |
501 |
ST EUGENE'S PS |
Catholic Maintained |
274 |
256 |
242 |
227 |
205 |
ST JOHN 'S PS |
Catholic Maintained |
675 |
636 |
622 |
588 |
592 |
ST PATRICK’S PS |
Catholic Maintained |
917 |
878 |
872 |
880 |
861 |
ST PAUL ’S PS, SLIEVEMORE |
Catholic Maintained |
263 |
233 |
219 |
183 |
178 |
ST THERESA'S PS, LENAMORE |
Catholic Maintained |
466 |
456 |
438 |
426 |
406 |
STEELSTOWN VOL MAINTAINED PS |
Catholic Maintained |
569 |
543 |
543 |
511 |
477 |
TRENCH ROAD PS |
Catholic Maintained |
426 |
406 |
377 |
341 |
322 |
GAELSCOIL ÉADAIN MHÓIR |
Other Maintained |
90 |
111 |
116 |
116 |
135 |
GROARTY INTEGRATED PS |
Controlled Integrated |
n.a. |
n.a. |
43 |
39 |
34 |
OAKGROVE INTEGRATED PS |
Grant Maintained Integrated |
444 |
451 |
445 |
467 |
451 |
Source: School Census 2007/08
Note 1: Primary includes children in nursery, reception and year 1 – 7.
Note 2: Schools listed are those that are located in wards wholly or partly in the city of Derry.
Free School Meals
Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Education how many pupils are currently entitled to free school meals in each primary school in the Mid-Ulster constituency; and what percentage of the school population this represents.
(AQW 7643/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sa tábla thíos.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
Primary 1 school pupils entitled to free school meals 2 in the Mid-Ulster constituency – 2007/08
School name |
Pupils entitled to free meal |
Total enrolment |
% of total entitled to free meal |
|---|---|---|---|
ALTAYESKEY PRIMARY SCHOOL |
0 |
33 |
0.0 |
AMPERTAINE PRIMARY SCHOOL |
11 |
86 |
12.8 |
ANAHORISH PRIMARY SCHOOL |
7 |
191 |
3.7 |
AUGHAMULLAN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
17 |
78 |
21.8 |
BALLYLIFFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL |
6 |
56 |
10.7 |
BALLYNEASE PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
90 |
* |
BALLYTREA PRIMARY SCHOOL |
7 |
102 |
6.9 |
BELLAGHY PRIMARY SCHOOL |
0 |
32 |
0.0 |
BUSH PRIMARY SCHOOL |
7 |
166 |
4.2 |
CASTLEDAWSON PRIMARY SCHOOL |
12 |
101 |
11.9 |
CHURCHTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
6 |
43 |
14.0 |
COAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL |
5 |
51 |
9.8 |
COOKSTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
66 |
419 |
15.8 |
CRIEVAGH PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
34 |
* |
CROSSROADS PRIMARY SCHOOL |
8 |
128 |
6.3 |
CULNADY PRIMARY SCHOOL |
0 |
46 |
0.0 |
DERRYCHRIN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
28 |
107 |
26.2 |
DESERTMARTIN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
9 |
36 |
25.0 |
DONAGHEY PRIMARY SCHOOL |
8 |
105 |
7.6 |
DONAGHMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
52 |
* |
DRUMARD PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
57 |
* |
EDENDORK PRIMARY SCHOOL |
49 |
247 |
19.8 |
GAELSCOIL NA SPEIRINI |
* |
23 |
* |
GAELSCOIL UI NEILL |
41 |
113 |
36.3 |
GREENLOUGH PRIMARY SCHOOL (ST MARY'S) |
13 |
142 |
9.2 |
HOLY FAMILY PRIMARY SCHOOL |
68 |
549 |
12.4 |
HOLY TRINITY PRIMARY SCHOOL |
144 |
690 |
20.9 |
KILROSS PRIMARY SCHOOL |
5 |
67 |
7.5 |
KNOCKLOUGHRIM PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
63 |
* |
KNOCKNAGIN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
36 |
* |
LISSAN (1) PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
92 |
* |
MAGHERA PRIMARY SCHOOL |
12 |
90 |
13.3 |
MAGHERAFELT CONTROLLED PRIMARY SCHOOL |
70 |
325 |
21.5 |
MONEYMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL |
6 |
181 |
3.3 |
NEW ROW PRIMARY SCHOOL |
16 |
165 |
9.7 |
NEWMILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
57 |
* |
ORRITOR PRIMARY SCHOOL |
13 |
209 |
6.2 |
PHOENIX INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL |
7 |
79 |
8.9 |
PRIMATE DIXON PRIMARY SCHOOL |
186 |
471 |
39.5 |
QUEEN ELIZABETH II (POMEROY) PRIMARY SCHOOL |
* |
31 |
* |
SACRED HEART PRIMARY SCHOOL, ROCK |
13 |
99 |
13.1 |
SPIRES INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOL |
10 |
201 |
5.0 |
ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, GULLADUFF |
10 |
187 |
5.4 |
ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNGANNON |
24 |
135 |
17.8 |
ST BRIGID'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, TIRKANE |
24 |
133 |
18.1 |
ST COLUMBA'S PRIMARY SCHOOL |
5 |
128 |
3.9 |
ST COLUMB'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (CULLION) |
0 |
84 |
0.0 |
ST EOGHAN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL |
6 |
76 |
7.9 |
ST JOHN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, SWATRAGH |
7 |
171 |
4.1 |
ST JOHN'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNGANNON |
6 |
66 |
9.1 |
ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNGANNON |
34 |
179 |
19.0 |
ST JOSEPH'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNNAMORE |
14 |
81 |
17.3 |
ST MALACHY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL |
7 |
34 |
20.6 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DRAPERSTOWN |
24 |
218 |
11.0 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, BELLAGHY |
31 |
206 |
15.1 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DONAGHMORE |
9 |
62 |
14.5 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, STEWARTSTOWN |
33 |
112 |
29.5 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNNAMORE |
10 |
167 |
6.0 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, POMEROY |
45 |
172 |
26.2 |
ST MARY'S PRIMARY SCHOOL ( GLENVIEW) |
51 |
304 |
16.8 |
ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, LOUP |
15 |
120 |
12.5 |
ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DONAGHMORE |
28 |
176 |
15.9 |
ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, KILLYCOLPY |
41 |
172 |
23.8 |
ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNGANNON |
59 |
216 |
27.3 |
ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL, MONEYMORE |
19 |
92 |
20.7 |
ST PATRICK'S PRIMARY SCHOOL (GLEN) |
14 |
160 |
8.8 |
ST PETER'S PRIMARY SCHOOL |
34 |
184 |
18.5 |
ST TREA'S PRIMARY SCHOOL |
7 |
92 |
7.6 |
STEWARTSTOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL |
13 |
35 |
37.1 |
TOBERMORE PRIMARY SCHOOL |
17 |
83 |
20.5 |
WOODS PRIMARY SCHOOL |
14 |
117 |
12.0 |
Source: School Census 2007/08
Note:1 Includes children in nursery, reception and year 1 – 7 classes.
2 For nursery class pupils, children that have a parent(s) who is(are) in receipt of Job Seekers Allowance or Income support, or who are otherwise entitled to free school meals are included.
‘*’ denotes fewer than 5 pupils.
Cost of Supply Teachers
Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education how much money was spent on supply teachers in each of the last 5 years, broken down by Education and Library Board.
(AQW 7694/08)
Ms C Ruane:
Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sa tábla thíos
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
|
2002-03 |
2003-04 |
2004-05 |
2005-06 |
2006/07 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
£ |
£ |
£ |
£ |
£ |
Belfast |
6,842,327 |
7,014,820 |
6,376,348 |
6,669,593 |
7,203,867 |
North Eastern |
9,165,736 |
9,448,192 |
8,754,272 |
10,005,241 |
8,289,562 |
South Eastern |
7,822,331 |
8,210,121 |
7,588,690 |
8,470,610 |
10,259,767 |
Southern |
8,883,186 |
9,406,939 |
9,446,171 |
10,773,341 |
8,515,692 |
Western |
7,095,673 |
7,526,599 |
7,413,210 |
8,069,669 |
11,019,450 |
Special |
3,494,167 |
3,645,448 |
3,523,706 |
3,847,924 |
3,955,189 |
GMI |
1,457,037 |
1,481,713 |
1,632,509 |
1,827,058 |
2,224,154 |
Total |
44,760,457 |
46,733,832 |
44,734,906 |
49,663,436 |
51,467,681 |
EMPLOYMENT AND LEARNING
Learner Access and Engagement Programme
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Employment and Learning why there has been a delay in the implementation of the Learner Access Engagement Programme.
(AQW 7446/08)
The Minister for Employment and Learning (Sir Reg Empey): There has been no delay in the implementation of this programme. The Learner Access and Engagement pilot programme is still on target to commence in September 2008, as planned. Following the issue of guidance from the Department on 16 th May 2008, Colleges will soon commence their procurement procedures to appoint organisations to provide learning support services, under the programme.
Learner Access and Engagement Programme
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Employment and Learning why instructions on the Learner Access Engagement Programme are still not available to community groups.
(AQW 7447/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The Learner Access and Engagement pilot programme will commence in September 2008, as planned. The Department issued guidance on the programme to Further Education Colleges on 16 th May and I understand that the Colleges are about to commence their procurement procedures to appoint organisations to provide learner support services, under the programme. I also understand that the Colleges have engaged with the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) to promote awareness of the programme amongst voluntary and community organisations.
Departmental Phone Numbers
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, his Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7525/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The Department has a total of 5 telephone numbers operating as student finance customer helplines. The helplines are operated on the Department’s behalf by the Student Loans Company (SLC).
No profit has been made on these lines in the last 3 years.
Full details are provided in the following table.
Prefix & telephone number |
Profit 2005-06 |
Profit 2006-07 |
Profit 2007-08 |
|---|---|---|---|
O845 6017646 EMA NI |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
0845 6000662 NI Student Support |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
|
|
|
|
0870 242211 Mortgage Style |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
0870 6060704 Deferment Queries |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
0870 2406598 Income Contingent Repayers |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
|
|
|
|
Higher Education Colleges
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if (i) higher education colleges in Northern Ireland incorporate and abide by the same regulations as; and (ii) the advice and support on offer benchmarks favourably with, higher education colleges in the rest of the United Kingdom.
(AQW 7526/08)
Sir Reg Empey:
(i)Further Education Colleges in Northern Ireland incorporate, and abide by, the same regulations governing the provision of regulated qualifications across the three countries of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The regulators in England (Ofqual), Wales (DCELLS) and Northern Ireland (CCEA) jointly accredit qualifications available in these three countries. These arrangements ensure that qualifications are understood and recognised by employers and educational institutions across the three countries. This, in turn, ensures quality of provision, as well as enabling learners to progress to higher levels of qualification. The regulators also work closely with the regulator in Scotland (the Scottish Qualifications Authority), particularly in relation to professional and technical (vocational) qualifications.
(ii)The Further Education sector in Northern Ireland adopts a standard approach to marketing and careers guidance. Typically, most full-time 16-19 students have an element of careers guidance included in their timetable. Students’ Services within colleges also operate a careers support service. Individual students, both full-time and part-time, can use this as a "drop in" service, or can receive a full consultation with an appointment. In addition, colleges produce full-time and part-time prospectuses, visit local schools, and hold open days in colleges and other locations across their catchment areas. Colleges also advertise across different media to raise awareness. This is, largely, in line with the types of service in this area that is available in the rest of the United Kingdom.
I can also advise that the Department is developing new proposals, the Individual Learning Programme, to enhance the service available to 16 to 19 year old students, in this important area. Based on initial assessment by college staff, the college will determine and agree with individual learners the most appropriate programme of study to enable their career aspirations to be met in the most effective way. This enhanced approach, which should be available from the start of the 2009/10 academic year, will complement the Department’s new Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance strategy.
In addition, the Department is also developing proposals to enable local organisations, under contract to colleges, to support adult learners taking Further Education courses that will help to prepare them for employment. This will commence on a pilot basis in September 2008.
Belfast Metropolitan College
Mr Newton asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to list the (i) full-time; and (ii) part-time courses at the Belfast Metropolitan College campus at Tower Street; and how many (a) full-time; and (b) part-time students are currently attending this campus.
(AQW 7614/08)
Sir Reg Empey: Belfast Metropolitan College has informed me that there are 392 full-time students and 990 part-time students currently attending its Tower Street campus.
I have attached, at Annex A, a list of the full-time and part-time courses that are being delivered at the campus during the 2007/08 academic year.
Annex A
Courses delivered at Tower Street campus – Full-Time
Beauty Therapy
BTEC First Diploma Animal Care
BTEC HND Animal Management
BTEC HND Performing Arts
BTEC Introduction to Administration Pathfinder
BTEC Introduction to Administration Routeways
BTEC Introduction to Retail Routeways
BTEC National Certificate Beauty Therapy Science
BTEC National Diploma Animal Management
BTEC National Diploma Beauty Therapy Science
BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts (Acting)
BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance)
Hairdressing Level 1
Hairdressing Level 2
Hairdressing Level 3
HND Applied Science (Therapies)
HND Beauty Therapy Sciences
Make Up Artist Diploma
NVQ Level 2 Beauty Therapy and Nail Technology
Pathfinder - A1
Courses delivered at Tower Street campus – Part-Time
Anatomy/ Physiology
Applied Treatments
Hairdressing - Basic Cutting
Beauty Therapy - Level 3
BTEC HND Performing Arts
Certificate In Business & Administration (Organisations & People) - Level 2
Computerised Accounts: City & Guilds Certificate - Level 1
Computerised Accounts: Sage - Level 2
Computerised Accounts: Sage - Level 1
Desktop Publishing: Microsoft Publisher - Level 1
E-Image Manipulation Using Photoshop
Essential Skills – Literacy
Essential Skills - Numeracy
Essential Skills ICT Pilot - Pathfinder
GCSE Spanish
Gel Nail Extensions 1
Gel Nail Extensions 2
Gents Barbering
Hairdressing - Level 2
Hairdressing - Level 3
HNC Advanced Therapeutic Hair Studies
HNC Applied Science (Therapy)
HNC Hair & Scalp Therapy
HND Beauty Therapy
HND Beauty Therapy Sciences Part-Time
Italian – Level 1
Hairdressing - Long Hair Workshop
Making Most Of Home Computer
NVQ Beauty Therapy
NVQ Gents Hairdressing - Barbering Short Course
NVQ II Gents Hairdressing
NVQ Beauty Therapy – Level 2
OCR Word Processing - Level 1
Painting In Oils
Pre-GCSE English
Pre-GCSE Maths
Professional Diploma Hair & Scalp Therapy
Sage Payroll - Level 2
Stringed Instrument Making
VTCT Safety, Security and Employment Standards
VTCT Body Massage Certificate A
VTCT Body Massage Certificate B
VTCT Body Massage Diploma
VTCT Diploma Anatomy & Physiology
VTCT Diploma In Reflexology
VTCT Diploma Indian Head Massage
VTCT Diploma In Stone Therapy – Level 3
Web Page Creation- Dreamwaver
Woodwork/Turning
Word Processing Software - Level 2
Memorandum of Understanding with Leeds Metropolitan University
Ms Anderson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he has informed the North West Regional College of his views in relation to the proposed Memorandum of Understanding with Leeds Metropolitan University.
(AQW 7620/08)
Sir Reg Empey: The North West Regional College has advised my Department that there is no proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the College and Leeds Metropolitan University.
ENTERPRISE, TRADE AND INVESTMENT
Petroleum (Consolidation) Act (NI) 1929
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how it regulates the issuing of licences for petroleum stations under the Petroleum (Consolidation) Act (NI) 1929.
(AQW 7559/08)
The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Mrs A Foster): The Petroleum (Consolidation) Act (NI) 1929 gives powers to District Councils, which act independently of my Department, to issue licences for the storage of petrol at filling stations. My Department and its executive NDPB, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), have a role in handling any complaints arising from licensees or applicants for licences who may be aggrieved by a decision taken by a district council.
HSENI is taking forward, in conjunction with DETI, planning for the establishment within HSENI of a Fuel Oils Liaison Unit that will work with councils as they discharge their petroleum licensing function at filling stations. This initiative will be supported by a Fuel Oils Forum involving representatives from my Department , HSENI, and District Councils.
Departmental Phone Numbers
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, his Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7560/08)
Mrs A Foster: The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, including its *Non Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs), does not operate any 0870 telephone numbers. The following 0845 numbers are in operation:
Telephone Number |
Description |
|---|---|
| 0845 600 6262 | Consumer advice telephone service for Northern Ireland |
| 0845 604 8888 | Companies Registry information and document request line |
| 0845 601 6022 1 | Consumer support helpline |
No Profit has been made on any of these lines in each of the last 3 years.
1 The General Consumer Council NI is in the process of changing to an 0800 number. The completion date for overall transition is 30 September 2008.
*DETI’s NDPBs are: Invest NI, NI Tourist Board, Health and Safety Executive for NI and the General Consumer Council NI.
Motorcycle Tourism in North Antrim
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how he intends to promote motorcycle tourism and areas associated with it, such as Armoy, in the North Antrim constituency.
(AQW 7571/08)
Mrs A Foster: Responsibility for the promotion of motorcycle sports rests with the governing body, the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (MCUI). Over the past 2 years, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL), has been developing, in partnership with Sport Northern Ireland (SNI), a new 10-year Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation in Northern Ireland. The contribution of sport generally, including motorcycle sports, to tourism has emerged as an important issue in the development of the Strategy. A final Strategy is expected to be launched in the next few weeks.
The Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure launched two funding programmes, Major Events and Events Growth Fund, in March of this year. The aims of these programmes include stimulating tourism through sporting and other events. A further call for applications from event organisers will be issued in the autumn.
Over the past three years, Tourism Ireland (TIL) has increased its promotion of the North West 200 event by hosting journalists from Great Britain, France, Spain, Belgium and Germany. During the 2008 event this included a visit to Armoy and meetings with the promoters of the Armada. It has also included marketing representation through specialist operators.
The culture of motorcycling in Co. Antrim is reflected in TIL’s marketing material including its market guides of which over 2 million are printed in 11 languages.
NITB in partnership with the Regional Tourism Partnership and ten local authorities has successfully developed and launched the ‘world class’ Causeway Coastal Route (CCR). Being Northern Ireland’s first strategic tourist route, it was developed in order to improve visitor safety and visitor access to sites and attractions all along the coast and the nine inland scenic loops. Designed to facilitate coaches, cars, cyclists and walkers the CCR is also recognised as an itinerary well suited to motorbikes. The village of Armoy is integrated within the CCR, specifically on the Glenshesk scenic loop.
A website www.bikerroadtrip.com features a number of routes developed by bikers stretching from Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland to the roads of the North West 200, and the twists and turns of Donegal and also provides information on accommodation, events, ferry travel, tour guides and bike clubs. Armoy features on the Joey’s Backyard Route.
A further major initiative is underway to provide a full interpretative solution at key sites which will compel visitors to stay longer in the region through a mix of traditional interpretative solutions, cultural animation and events, public art and enhancements to the public realm. These projects will go some way to enhancing the visitor appeal of the region.
By investing in high quality, baseline infrastructure, it is anticipated that this will stimulate and encourage private sector entrepreneurship and investment, focused on villages and towns along the Causeway Coastal Route.
Unemployment in Donaghadee
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Donaghadee South electoral area.
(AQW 7587/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 43 claimant count unemployed persons in Donaghadee South electoral area (37 males and 6 females). This corresponds to 2.4% of persons of working age compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Draft Regional Innovation Strategy
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to list all respondents to the consultation on the draft Regional Innovation Strategy.
(AQW 7615/08)
Mrs A Foster: The Regional Innovation Strategy Action Plan (RISAP) 2008-2011 was launched on 30 April 2008, following a productive period of consultation with all Government departments, the Universities and Further Education (FE) Colleges plus industry and its representative bodies.
This is the third Action Plan under the Regional Innovation Strategy (RIS), which was subject to full public consultation prior to its launch in June 2003. An important element of the consultations around the Action Plan was a workshop held at the beginning of the process at which there were approximately 40 attendees from across the business and academia sectors. The organisations represented were:
- Agrifood & Biosciences Institute (AFBI)
- Association of Northern Ireland Colleges (ANIC)
- Arts Council NI
- Belfast City Council
- Belfast Institute of Further & Higher Education (BIFHE)
- BiobusinessNI
- Confederation of British Industry (CBI)
- Clarendon Fund
- Defence Diversification Agency
- Diabetica
- Ecomesh systems
- Economic Development Forum (EDF) Innovation Sub-Group
- Eircom UK Ltd
- Economic Research Institution of Northern Ireland (ERINI)
- Food Strategy Implementation Partnership (FSIP)
- Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
- Health & Personal Social Services (now HSC) Research
- Irish Central Border Area Network (ICBAN)
- Institute of Directors (IoD)
- Lecky Design
- Level Seven Creative
- MATRIX
- Mo Team
- Momentum
- Morson Projects
- Moypark
- Nanotech NI
- National Endowment for Science Technology & the Arts (NESTA)
- NI Food & Drinks Association (NIFDA)
- NI Film & Television Commission (NIFTC)
- NI Business & Innovation Centre (NORIBIC)
- NI Science Park (NISP)
- Omagh College
- Pritchitt Foods
- Queen’s University Belfast (QUB)
- Ulster Bank
- University of Ulster
Following this workshop a targeted series of bi-lateral consultations were undertaken with key stakeholders. These included the CBI, the Institute of Directors, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Northern Ireland Science Park, the Centre for Competitiveness (CforC), the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Northern Ireland Colleges (ANIC), Queen’s University and the University of Ulster.
As a result of this consultation process the FSB, IoD, CforC, the Northern Ireland Science Park, QUB, Ulster University, and ANIC, as well as InterTradeIreland, Invest NI, and Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), have joined the NI Government Departments in committing themselves to important actions in the RIS Action.
During its development the action plan also received the endorsement of the Northern Ireland Executive, the Enterprise, Trade and Investment Committee and all other Departmental Committees, the Economic Development Forum and MATRIX, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel.
Invest NI Office Space
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if any of the office space being leased by Invest NI in the North Down constituency is currently occupied by Invest NI client companies; and if so at which locations.
(AQW 7625/08)
Mrs A Foster: Invest NI does not lease any office space in the North Down parliamentary constituency area. However, as at 31 st March 2008, within the constituency, it had 43 acres of land leased to client companies.
Invest NI Office Space
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what office space Invest NI is currently leasing in the North Down constituency.
(AQW 7626/08)
Mrs A Foster: Invest NI does not lease any office space in the North Down parliamentary constituency area.
Unemployment in Ballyholme and Groomsport Areas in Bangor.
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Ballyholme and Groomsport electoral area of Bangor.
(AQW 7637/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 118 claimant count unemployed persons in Ballyholme and Groomsport electoral area (85 males and 33 females). This corresponds to 0.8% of persons of working age, compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Unemployment in the Abbey Area in Bangor
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Abbey electoral area of Bangor.
(AQW 7638/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 305 claimant count unemployed persons in Abbey electoral area,
(236 males and 69 females). This corresponds to 2.7% of persons of working age, compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Unemployment in the Bangor West Area
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Bangor West electoral area.
(AQW 7639/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 201 claimant count unemployed persons in Bangor West electoral area (157 males and 44 females). This corresponds to 1.6% of persons of working age, compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Unemployment in Donaghadee
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Donaghadee North electoral area.
(AQW 7640/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 23 claimant count unemployed persons in Donaghadee North electoral area (19 males and 4 females). This corresponds to 1.2% of persons of working age, compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Unemployment in Millisle
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Millisle electoral area.
(AQW 7641/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 29 claimant count unemployed persons in Millisle electoral area,
(21 males and 8 females). This corresponds to 1.5% of persons of working age, compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Unemployment in Holywood
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what is the current level of unemployment in the Holywood electoral area.
(AQW 7684/08)
Mrs A Foster: At May 2008 there were 74 claimant count unemployed persons in Holywood electoral area,
(53 males and 21 females). This corresponds to 0.8% of persons of working age, compared to the NI average figure of 2.3%.
Extending the Gas Pipeline to the Dungannon Area
Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what consideration his Department has given to extending the gas pipeline to the Dungannon area.
(AQW 7749/08)
Mrs A Foster: The Department has no current plans to extend the natural gas network to Dungannon, however any application to extend the network will be considered by the Northern Ireland Authority for Utility Regulation and the Department in terms of the economic viability of the proposal.
Invest NI Office Space
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if any of the office space being leased by Invest NI in the North Down constituency is vacant; and for each vacant property to state (i) its location and for how long has it been vacant; and (ii) the length of the current contract, with start and expiry dates.
(AQW 7751/08)
Mrs A Foster: Invest NI does not have any vacant office space in the North Down parliamentary constituency area.
Invest NI Office Space
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how much has been paid since devolution on contracts for vacant office spaces held by Invest NI in the North Down constituency.
(AQW 7752/08)
Mrs A Foster: Since the restoration of devolution Invest NI does not have any vacant office space in the North Down parliamentary constituency area and therefore not made any payments in respect of such contracts.
ENVIRONMENT
Planning Applications
Mr Dallat asked the Minister of the Environment what action her Department has taken to reduce the number of retrospective planning applications.
(AQW 7388/08)
The Minister of the Environment (Mrs A Foster): My Department is not responsible for the actions of individuals who ignore the statutory requirements of planning legislation and cannot therefore control the number of retrospective planning applications. The onus is clearly on any landowner/developer to ensure they have all the necessary consents in place before they commence development. Where they do not, they will be liable to enforcement action.
Each Divisional Planning Office and Headquarters Strategic Project Division has dedicated enforcement teams to investigate any alleged breaches of planning control.
My Department’s general policy approach to dealing with breaches of planning control is contained within Planning Policy Statement 9 – ‘The Enforcement of Planning Control’ and having regard to existing enforcement legislation. Changes to legislation were made in 2003 and 2006. As part of the current reform programme, I am continuing to look at ways to improve the enforcement regime and expect to seek views during the Planning Reform public consultation this autumn.
Highway Code
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of the Environment what plans she has to introduce a Highway Code in languages other than English, to facilitate people who do not have English as their first language.
(AQW 7486/08)
Mrs A Foster: The Highway Code is essential reading for all road users and it is important that they have access to the booklet, are encouraged to read it and can understand it.
My Department will be publishing a revised Highway Code for Northern Ireland in July and is seeking the resources necessary to enable a copy to be provided free to every home in Northern Ireland and for translations to be published on-line in Polish, Lithuanian, Portuguese and Mandarin.
Houses of Multiple Occupancy in South Belfast
Mr Spratt asked the Minister of the Environment what action she intends to take to tackle the issue of Houses of Multiple Occupancy, following her visit to the Holylands area in South Belfast.
(AQW 7499/08)
Mrs A Foster: During my recent visit to the Holylands area in South Belfast, I heard at first hand some of the issues facing the community, including the adverse impact that HMOs can have on an area.
The issues surrounding HMOs are multi-faceted and cannot be tackled by one Department or Agency. I would therefore wish to endorse the joint working approach of the Inter Agency Group which was set up under the chairmanship of the Chief Executive of Belfast City Council. I believe that such a multi agency approach is necessary and that through the Inter Agency Group, Planning Service can make a significant contribution to addressing a range of issues in the Holylands area.
As part of its contribution to the Inter Agency Group, Planning Service has undertaken consultation on a Draft HMO Subject Plan for Belfast aimed at addressing many of the issues which were raised during my visit. Work is progressing on the Subject Plan and it is hoped it will be formally adopted later this year. The Subject Plan represents one of the most progressive planning approaches to tackling houses in multiple occupation in the UK.
It has been recognised that the Subject Plan has already gone some way to controlling further HMO development in the Holylands area. Furthermore, the recently published Addendum to Planning Policy Statement 7 (Residential Extensions and Alterations) in March 2008 will also make a positive contribution to the control of extensions in non HMO properties.
I will consider how this policy framework may be further consolidated as follows:
- Apartment development: I have asked my officials to prepare a paper on policy options that focus on development affecting established residential areas which I am expecting to be finalised shortly. This will provide me with an opportunity to consider what further measures may be needed to address this matter or any possible alternatives that may be needed toensure better planning control over flat developments.
- Backland Character: I amgiving consideration as to how planning policy can protect and improve the character of residential backlands, i.e. the areas to the rear of residential property.
- Purpose Built Student Housing: I will raise with my Ministerial colleagues the establishment of an inter-departmental group which will examine the scope for alternative student accommodation and thereby further reduce the current number of HMOs in areas such as the Holylands.
- Inter Agency Group: Planning Service will continue to contribute to the Inter Agency Group under the Chairmanship of the Chief Executive of Belfast City Council with a view to addressing issues associated with HMO development in areas such as the Holylands.
Departmental Phone Numbers
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of the Environment to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, her Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7524/08)
Mrs A Foster: Six 0845 numbers are operated on behalf of my Department’s Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA). One 0845 and one 0870 number, both of which operate across the UK, are advertised by DVA on behalf of Pearson Vue, who act for DVLA in Swansea. Details of all numbers, including revenue generated in each of the past three years, are given in the table below.
Number |
Function |
Operator |
Revenue Generated |
|---|---|---|---|
0845 402 4000
|
Vehicle and Driver Licensing Enquiry Line |
Opal |
None 1
|
0845 247 2471
|
MOT Booking Line |
Northgate |
None |
0845 247 2472
|
Driving Test Booking Line |
Northgate |
None |
0845 247 2473
|
MOT/Driving Test Booking Enquiry Line |
Northgate |
None |
0845 247 2474
|
MOT/Driving Test Booking Textphone Line |
Northgate |
None |
0845 758 1416
|
DVA Testing Fees Information Line |
Automated messaging service |
None |
0845 600 6700
|
Theory Test Line |
Pearson Vue ( UK wide) |
None |
0870 0106 372
|
Theory Test Textphone |
Pearson Vue ( UK wide) |
None |
1. This 0845 number was introduced in February 2006 and rebates of £14,817.75 plus VAT were payable for the period February 2006 - February 2007. T his revenue is payable to DVLA in Swansea and not to DVA. Totals for the period February 2007 - February 2008 have not yet been supplied or agreed but it is expected that the line will have generated a similar amount of revenue during this period.
MOT Test
Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of the Environment what is (i) the current backlog of applications; and (ii) the average waiting time for, an MOT test.
(AQW 7536/08)
Mrs A Foster: At 31 May 2008, 61,438 customers have appointments for all categories of vehicle test. This reflects a normal business operating position for this time of year even though the number of vehicle test applications received, up to 31 May 2008, is up by 15% compared to the same period last year. Regulations provide for a vehicle test application to be made up to three months in advance of when it is due a test, however, they restrict the testing of a vehicle to within one month in advance of its due date.
The Agency’s target is to provide 85% of vehicle test appointments within 21 days of application (unless a later date has been requested by the customer). At 31 May the Agency was achieving a rate of 87% and the average waiting time for a vehicle test across Northern Ireland was 18 days.
MOT Certificates
Mr Weir asked the Minister of the Environment how those responsible for the enforcement of the display of MOT certificates will distinguish between motorists who do not have a certificate and those who obtained an MOT certificate in other parts of the United Kingdom.
(AQW 7542/08)
Mrs A Foster: Vehicle owners who have had their vehicle tested in Great Britain will have been provided with a certificate proving that their vehicle has been tested and has passed its MOT.
PSNI officers have the power under Article 180 of the Road Traffic ( Northern Ireland) Order 1981 to request vehicle owners to produce their vehicle test certificate. If the vehicle owner is unable to produce the certificate they will be guilty of an offence.
MOT Certificates
Mr Weir asked the Minister of the Environment what is her Department's position in relation to the display of MOT certificates on Northern Ireland owned cars that have passed an MOT test in other parts of the United Kingdom; and if the owners will be liable to a pay fine.
(AQW 7543/08)
Mrs A Foster: The legislation regarding the display of MOT discs is applicable only to vehicles tested under the Northern Ireland Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations. The Department cannot legislate for vehicles tested in another jurisdiction. Where a vehicle has obtained a valid Test Certificate issued in Great Britain the vehicle owner will not have been provided with an MOT disc and they cannot be prosecuted or fined, for failure to display, when the vehicle is used in Northern Ireland.
Communities Against the Lough Neagh Incinerator
Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment to explain her decision to refuse a meeting with representatives of the Communities Against the Lough Neagh Incinerator.
(AQW 7549/08)
Mrs A Foster: In declining to meet representatives of the Communities Against the Lough Neagh Incinerator, I did explain that I was unable to accept their invitation as the planning application may come before me at a later stage in the planning process. I have instead offered to the groups a meeting with my officials in Planning Service.
Rose Energy
Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment how many meetings she has had with representatives from Rose Energy; and the reasons for these meetings.
(AQW 7550/08)
Mrs A Foster: I met representatives of Rose Energy once, on 27 November 2007. I attended the meeting, along with officials from my Department, to address any queries that may have arisen out of the presentation given by Rose Energy. Rose Energy had expressed a particular concern about compliance with the EU Nitrates Directive. At the meeting I did encourage Rose Energy to make early contact with Planning Service to discuss their proposals.
MOT Discs
Mr Weir asked the Minister of the Environment who is responsible for (i) the enforcement of the display of MOT discs; and (ii) prosecutions for failure to display.
(AQW 7553/08)
(i) Mrs A Foster: Primary responsibility for the enforcement of mandatory display of MOT discs will be carried out by PSNI officers; however, enforcement officers of the Department of the Environment’s Driver & Vehicle Agency will also have the power to enforce this requirement.
(ii) Proceedings for failing to display MOT discs can be instigated by the PSNI or the Department of the Environment and will be processed through the Public Prosecution Service.
Temporary Waste Transfer Station in Newtownstewart
Mr Bresland asked the Minister of the Environment why no decision has been made on a planning application (J/2006/0876/F) submitted in 2006 to the Special Studies Section of the Planning Service, for a temporary waste transfer station at 76 Strabane Road, Newtownstewart.
(AQW 7557/08)
Mrs A Foster: This planning application has been submitted by Strabane District Council. While it may appear at first glance to be a straightforward proposal, it has in fact proved to be a complex application to deal with. The proposal involves taking access onto a protected route. Consideration is further complicated by the fact that another waste planning application, yet to be determined, proposes the use of the same access. This cumulative impact gives rise to potentially unacceptable levels of intensification of use of the access to the protected route.
Planning Service had anticipated that there would have been an outcome to this application before the end of March 2008. This proved not to be possible. However I am advised that Planning Service would hope to bring an opinion on the application to Council within the next six weeks.
Northern Ireland Environment Agency
Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment how much it will cost to set up the new Northern Ireland Environment Agency; and what its annual running costs will be.
(AQW 7558/08)
Mrs A Foster: It is estimated that the cost of setting up the new Northern Ireland Environment Agency will be around £30k.
The new Agency is expected to remain within the 2008/09 budget of £54.2m already allocated to the Environment and Heritage Service.
Graduated Driver Licensing
Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment when the consultation on Graduated Driver Licensing will be launched.
(AQW 7630/08)
Mr S Wilson : The Department is currently finalising its consultation document on proposals for a system of graduated driver licensing, with a view to issuing it to a wide range of NI interests by the end of June 2008.
In addition, the Department issued a letter on 23 May 2008 to NI consultees seeking their comments on the range of questions asked in a recent GB consultation by DfT on proposals to reform the way people learn to drive and the way they are tested.
The responses received to both sets of proposals will be carefully considered before any decisions are reached on the best way forward in NI.
Taxi Index Cost Report
Mr Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment when the Taxi Index Cost Report will be started, and the proposed completion date.
(AQW 7651/08)
Mrs A Foster: My Department intends to start work in early 2009 on a wide-ranging review of taxi fares, part of which will involve the development of a Taxi Cost Index. As this research is still being planned it is not yet possible to state when it will be completed.
Taxi Index Cost Report
Mr Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment who will be carrying out the consultation and delivering the final outcome of the Taxi Index Cost Report.
(AQW 7652/08)
Mrs A Foster: Production of a Taxi Index Cost Report will form part of a wide-ranging review of taxi fares. My Department will carry out all consultations on any policy and legislative proposals that emerge from this work.
Taxis Bill
Mr Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the specification of the proposed meters which are to be installed in taxis, as outlined in the Taxis Bill.
(AQW 7653/08)
Mrs A Foster: My Department has begun work to determine future requirements for taximeters. While a specification already exists for use by Belfast Public Hire taxis, as yet no updated requirements have been identified. Consultation on a proposed new taximeter specification will take place when it has been developed.
Taxis Bill
Mr Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment what consultation is taking place with manufacturers of 'in car' meters, which are to be installed in taxis as outlined in the Taxis Bill.
(AQW 7654/08)
Mrs A Foster: My Department has begun work on the development of a revised specification for taximeters. As part of this process, my officials are consulting with taximeter manufacturers about the functionality and capabilities of their products.
Taxis Bill
Mr Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment what training is taking place within her Department to deal with the changes envisaged by the Taxis Bill.
(AQW 7655/08)
Mrs A Foster: My Department relies on well established systems to identify and deliver training to ensure that all members of staff have the knowledge and skills they need to perform effectively. Staff involved in the planning, implementation and delivery of the taxi regulation reform programme will, through this system, receive timely and appropriate training.
FINANCE AND PERSONNEL
Pensioners Rates Relief
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many pensioners receive rates relief; and what is being done to ensure that all who are eligible for rates relief are able to take it up.
(AQW 7243/08)
The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Mr P Robinson): Rate relief is administered by the Land and Property Services (LPS) and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE). The type of relief and the total number of pensioners receiving them is set out in the table below:
Relief Type |
Number of ratepayers aged over 60 receiving the relief |
|---|---|
Housing Benefit |
59,111 |
Rate Relief |
Not available (4,905 awards made) |
Disabled Persons Allowance |
Not available (11,000 awards made) |
Unfortunately it is not possible at present to confirm how many pensioners (60 years old and above) are in receipt of rate relief.
Land and Property Services (LPS) has received more than 13,500 applications for Lone Pensioner Allowance and NIHE 244. This relief is for pensioners aged 70 and above.
LPS uses a number of approaches to actively promote the take up of the various reliefs:
- During 2007/2008 the “Who Gets Help and How Campaign” involved advertising the reliefs and how to apply on bus shelters , buses and at a range of public and community facilities and the issue of a “Who Gets Help and How” booklet to every household that received a rate bill;
- Contributing to and or taking part in television and radio coverage about entitlement to the reliefs;
- Partnering with the voluntary and community sectors to explain the new reliefs to their staff and providing them with posters and leaflets to market the reliefs and application forms to help ratepayers to apply; and
- Reviewing entitlement to relief when ratepayers contact LPS to discuss payment difficulties.
LPS is considering its response to the recommendations from the recent “Take Up” study commissioned by the Department.
Departmental Staff with Disabilities
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many people with disabilities are currently employed by his Department.
(AQW 7408/08)
Mr P Robinson: The number of staff with disabilities currently employed in the Department of Finance and Personnel is 129.
Clare House Private Finance Initiative scheme
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what steps does his Department intend to take in light of the Post Occupancy Evaluation Report undertaken by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency into the Clare House Private Finance Initiative scheme.
(AQW 7555/08)
Mr P Robinson: Clare House is an ambitious and challenging pilot requiring people to work in a very different way. The recent evaluation report noted a number of both positive and negative aspects of the pilot. The report provides very valuable lessons and is one of a number of factors that will help to shape and inform the final Workplace 2010 contract. The lessons learned are being incorporated into an action plan which will ensure that the issues relating the wider Workplace 2010 contract will be addressed.
I am convinced that Workplace 2010 is right for the NICS to realise its reform and modernisation agenda but the evaluation reinforces the fact that the culture change associated with the transition is a very significant issue and one which have to be addressed directly and positively in moving forward.
I can assure you that these issues are being addressed and that the final Workplace 2010 proposals will be subject to the approval of the Executive prior to contract signature.
Departmental Phone Numbers
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to list all 0845 and 0870 telephone numbers operated by, or on behalf of, his Department and its agencies; and the profit made on the lines in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7561/08)
Mr P Robinson: The Department of Finance and Personnel operates three 0845 numbers; namely:
08456713133 – Account NI External Service Helpdesk
08453006360 – Land & Property Services Rating Helpline
08453006361 – Land & Property Services Rating Helpline (mini-com)
Two additional 0845 numbers were used by NISRA between 23 rd April and 25 th June 2007 for preparatory work for the 2011 census; namely:
08456072011 – NISRA census Helpline
08456082011 – NISRA census Helpline (mini-com)
The Department has no 0870 numbers in operation and has not used any 0870 numbers over the past three years.
No profit has accrued to the Department from the use of 0845 telephone numbers
Peace III Funding
Mr Easton asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how much money has been made available by the European Union for Peace III funding.
(AQW 7585/08)
Mr P Robinson: The European Union have allocated €224,845,648 to the 2007-13 PEACE III Programme. Including Member State match funding, the total PEACE III budget is €332,891,807. This is a shared allocation between Northern Ireland and the Border Region of the Republic of Ireland.
Peace II Extension
Mr Easton asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what the underspend was of Peace II extension money.
(AQW 7586/08)
Mr P Robinson: The PEACE II Programme is still operating. More than 1,500 PEACE II projects remain open and many of these can continue spending until their agreed end date of September 2008. Only when these have closed will it be possible to determine what proportion of the Programme’s budget has been spent.
The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), as PEACE II Managing Authority, is working closely with the two Member States and with Implementing Bodies to ensure that all PEACE II resources are spent.
Peace II Extension
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what contingency fund was set aside as the exit strategy for the Peace II extension.
(AQW 7588/08)
Mr P Robinson: No contingency fund was set aside as an exit strategy for the PEACE II extension.
Provided they can satisfy the relevant selection criteria, PEACE II funded projects may be supported under the new PEACE III Programme, under other EU Programmes or from mainstream sources.
As EU PEACE funding is special, time-limited support, all PEACE II projects had to specify a formal end date and, if appropriate, a strategy for their sustainability following Programme closure.
HEALTH, SOCIAL SERVICES AND PUBLIC SAFETY
Health Programmes North Down
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the health programmes his department has planned for deprived areas in the North Down constituency.
(AQW 6410/08)
The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Mr M McGimpsey): Neighbourhood Renewal seeks to target those communities throughout Northern Ireland who are suffering the highest levels of deprivation. Neighbourhood Partnerships have been established for each Neighbourhood Renewal area as a vehicle for local planning and implementation to deliver improvements to the area. Health & Social Care is represented on the North Down Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership.
Programmes to date have included –
- Information on health education programmes available from the local Provider HSC Trust.
- Funding for North Down Community Network to employ a Community Development and Health Worker.
- A Health Needs Audit in each of the six identified disadvantaged areas across North Down.
- Funding to each of the six disadvantaged areas to access health education programmes/health improvement programmes to address their individual need.
Programmes planned include –
- Work underway with the local South Eastern HSC Trust, North Down Neighbourhood Partnership and Kilcooley Community Forum to bring forward an application to DSD to appoint new staff within the Kilcooley area to meet identified need in the area of mental health and emotional wellbeing and to co-ordinate a range of employment, education and health programmes.
- The local Investing for Health Partnership is currently finalising the Health Improvement Plan for 2008-2010. Within this there are a range of actions identified by North Down Neighbourhood Partnership, NIHE, local Community Networks, voluntary and local community organisations. Many of these actions are targeted at disadvantaged areas across the North Down Borough.
Suicide
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail, by parliamentary constituency, the assistance available for suicide related problems.
(AQW 6504/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The Health and Social Services Boards have advised that the information requested is not available by parliamentary constituency.
Suicide related problems are addressed, in part, out of the Boards’ general mental health services allocation of £187 million in 2008/09. In addition, an extra £46 million has been made available for investment in mental health services over the next three years. This includes enhanced provision of psychotherapy services and crisis response services.
£2.01 million of the Suicide Prevention Strategy’s £3m implementation budget was allocated, via the four Health and Social Services Boards, to be used to support local communities with the development of suicide prevention initiatives. I have supplied a breakdown in the table below showing the allocation of this funding to each of the Health and Social Services Boards in 2008/09.
Of the £2.01 million allocated for community-led initiatives, £0.5 million is ring fenced primarily for addressing areas of disproportionate need. This element of the suicide prevention budget is non-recurrent and was allocated by parliamentary constituency as agreed between the Department and the Finance sub group of the Suicide Strategy Implementation Body.
Up to a further £1.0 million is available in 2008/09 for provision of services by community and voluntary groups to support the “Lifeline” crisis support service.
Breakdown of £2.01m Suicide Strategy Implementation funding to Health and Social Services Boards
Board Area |
Funding 2008/09 (£) |
|---|---|
Eastern |
996,547 |
Northern |
424,581 |
Southern |
327,470 |
Western |
348,402 |
Total |
2,097,000 |
Agency Staff at the Causeway Hospital
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how much has been spent on employing agency staff at Causeway Hospital over the last five years, broken down by job title.
(AQW 7386/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The details are as follows:
GRADE |
03/04 |
04/05 |
05/06 |
06/07 |
07/08 |
TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nursing |
319,451 |
425,643 |
219,226 |
51,341 |
249,977 |
1,265,638 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Medical |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consultants |
955,292 |
2,178,498 |
853,567 |
329,763 |
303,925 |
4,621,045 |
Middle Grade |
101,559 |
317,237 |
137,259 |
110,465 |
344,976 |
1,011,496 |
Junior Doctors |
338,895 |
79,333 |
80,739 |
352,883 |
213,275 |
1,065,125 |
SubTotal |
1,395,746 |
2,575,068 |
1,071,565 |
793,111 |
862,176 |
6,697,666 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Medical Photography |
16,807 |
16,875 |
16,093 |
1,908 |
0 |
51,683 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Admin |
0 |
0 |
0 |
6,097 |
0 |
6,097 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lab |
51,251 |
17,160 |
14,774 |
3,688 |
0 |
86,873 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Catering |
0 |
89,182 |
63,119 |
764 |
2,536 |
155,601 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Grand Total |
1,783,255 |
3,123,928 |
1,384,777 |
856,909 |
1,114,689 |
8,263,558 |
Mental Health Patients
Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what intensive care services are available to mental health patients in the Western Health and Social Care Trust area; and to outline plans to develop these services.
(AQW 7403/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Psychiatric intensive care units (PICUs) are available in both the Gransha Hospital and Tyrone & Fermanagh Hospitals.
On the Gransha site, the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) facility has been integrated into the male and female admission units. Each unit now provides three gender specific ICU beds. The current arrangement is an interim one, pending the completion of the new 30 bed crisis facility at Gransha Park. This new facility will replace the old admission units and all 30 beds will be built to PICU standards. The facility will have single en-suite rooms, 15 male and 15 female. Each ward will have 3 dedicated PICU beds which will be designed to operate as stand-alone units when required. The new facility should be ready by 2011.
The Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital has one 8 bed PICU. Future provision on this site is currently under discussion and a similar model to the Gransha proposal is being actively considered. Through the Developing Better Services programme, the admission wards and the PICU will be replaced by approximately 2012. The new admission facility will include two 13 bed gender specific wards, all with single en-suite bedrooms with the entire unit built to PICU standards.
Dalriada Out of Hours Service
Mr McQuillan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if there are plans to reduce the service provided by the Dalriada doctor-led 'out of hours' urgent care service.
(AQW 7404/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Currently all Out of Hours (OOH) services in Northern Ireland are subject to a review looking at their efficiency and effectiveness. It is expected that the review will be published in the near future, this being the case, no decisions have been made.
Front Line Children's Services
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps he is taking to ensure that front line children's services are secured within his Department.
(AQW 7410/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: As a consequence of the Final Executive Budget announced at the end of January 2008, I have been able to allocate funding to provide additional services for children with complex needs, meet the costs of new child protection legislation and mainstream the Children and Young People’s Package.
I have also been able to invest in service developments for a range of children’s services. By 2010/2011, I will be investing an additional £10m per annum on improving children’s services preventing children going into care and improving the outcomes for those in care.
Smoking in Public Places
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people have been prosecuted by local Councils for smoking in public places since the Smoking ( Northern Ireland) Order 2006 took effect on 30th April 2007, broken down by each of the 26 local government districts.
(AQW 7429/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Provisional figures up to 31 March 2008 show that prosecutions have been brought against two individuals for smoking in a smoke-free place. One of the cases is being taken by North Down Borough Council and the other by Lisburn City Council.
During the same period, provisional figures show that 350 written warnings and 34 fixed penalty notices were issued in respect of smoking in a smoke free place.
Broken Limbs in the Antrim Area Hospital
Ms Purvis asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many re-settings were required for broken limbs in the Antrim Area Hospital, in each of the last 3 years; and how this compares with the United Kingdom average.
(AQW 7430/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The re-setting of broken limbs is not carried out at Antrim Area Hospital.
Figures on the average number of re-settings required in the United Kingdom are not available.
Financial Cost of Division
Dr Farry asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what conclusions have been drawn from the report of Deloitte and Touche into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide (i) on his Department's work; and (ii) in relation to potential efficiency savings.
(AQW 7438/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The Research into the Financial Cost of the Northern Ireland Divide was published in April 2007 and provided background for my Department in developing bids and presenting the DHSSPS case as part of the CSR2007 process.
As a consequence of the Final Executive Budget announced at the end of January 2008, I was able to secure funding to meet not only unavoidable or inescapable costs but also to meet the costs of service developments. Key areas where I have been able to provide development funding include mental health and learning disability services, children’s services, long term conditions, acute services and public health.
Planned savings of £53m arising from the Review of Public Administration now form part of required Departmental CSR efficiency plans for the next three years. For the remainder of their CSR savings, I have asked Trusts to provide me with their proposals for delivering efficiencies. I am still considering these proposals.
Autistic Spectrum Disorder
Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the average waiting times for diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder, in each Health Board area.
(AQW 7453/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not available.
Autistic Spectrum Disorder
Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many health professionals are employed in the diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder in each Health Board area.
(AQW 7454/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: This information is not available.
Fertility Treatments
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how much funding has been allocated for fertility treatments in 2008-09.
(AQW 7458/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: £1.6m has been allocated to the Health and Social Services Boards for fertility services in the 2008-09 financial year. It is for individual Boards to decide how this money should best be used to meet the needs of their resident population.
Fertility Counselling Service
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how the £50,000 allocated to the Fertility Counselling Service was spent in 2007-2008; and who received it.
(AQW 7459/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: An extra allocation of £50,000 to improve access to fertility counselling services was made available by my Department to the Health and Services Boards in late 2006. It is a matter for Boards to decide how best to allocate this money to deliver against their objectives in this area. A plan for the use of this extra funding was agreed in late 2007 and includes funding for the Infertility Network UK, additional fertility nurse adviser posts within Trusts and some additional funding for counselling services. This plan is in the process of being implemented.
Fertility Counselling Service
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to confirm the timescales for allocating money to the Fertility Counselling Service in 2008-09; and how this money will be allocated.
(AQW 7460/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: An extra allocation of £50,000 to improve access to fertility counselling services was made available by my Department to the Health and Services Boards in late 2006. It is a matter for Boards to decide how best to allocate this money to deliver against their objectives in this area. A plan for the use of this extra funding was agreed in late 2007 and includes funding for the Infertility Network UK, additional fertility nurse adviser posts within Trusts and some additional funding for counselling services. This plan is in the process of being implemented.
Funding for Cancer Drugs
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how much money has been allocated for cancer drugs in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 7461/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Whilst it is not possible to give an exact figure for the spend on cancer drugs alone, £29m of additional funding has been made available in recent years for the introduction of new specialist drugs and therapies which includes cancer drugs –
2005/2006 £5m
2006/2007 £11m
2007/2008 £13m
The allocation of funding for specialist drugs is a matter for the four Health and Social Services Boards, as commissioners of services, taking into account the competing demands and pressures in their areas and the strategic objectives and priorities of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. However, the Department indicated to Boards that in 2006/07 and 2007/08, the additional funding should include £4m and £2m dedicated for the provision of specialist cancer drugs.
Registered Dentists
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people were registered with a dentist in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency.
(AQW 7468/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The Central Services Agency holds a record of dentists who provide a full or partial Health Service treatment to patients. Information on dentists exclusively providing treatment outside the Health Service is not available. The information shown in table 1 below therefore includes Health Service patients only.
Table 1 Number of patients 1,2 registered with an Health Service dentist by parliamentary Constituency.
Parliamentary Constituency |
2008 |
2007 |
2006 |
|---|---|---|---|
Belfast East |
43,748 |
44,333 |
45,170 |
Belfast North |
40,925 |
41,796 |
42,601 |
Belfast South |
38,470 |
41,057 |
43,227 |
Belfast West |
42,337 |
43,184 |
43,584 |
East Antrim |
44,789 |
46,198 |
46,712 |
East Londonderry |
49,181 |
49,666 |
49,976 |
Fermanagh and South Tyrone |
37,920 |
41,133 |
43,234 |
Foyle |
47,812 |
50,101 |
52,182 |
Lagan Valley |
50,416 |
55,730 |
55,584 |
Mid Ulster |
42,615 |
42,996 |
41,789 |
Newry and Armagh |
50,706 |
55,900 |
58,921 |
North Antrim |
62,813 |
62,895 |
61,787 |
North Down |
42,205 |
44,844 |
46,952 |
South Antrim |
48,436 |
53,668 |
54,355 |
South Down |
57,575 |
59,357 |
58,296 |
Strangford |
53,118 |
52,098 |
56,085 |
Upper Bann |
55,828 |
57,001 |
56,163 |
West Tyrone |
32,284 |
34,957 |
35,010 |
Residency unknown 3 |
21,686 |
20,928 |
21,675 |
Northern Ireland |
862,864 |
897,842 |
913,303 |
Source: Central Services Agency
Notes:
1. Figures are quoted as at May of the relevant year. Data is derived from the list of dental registrations.
2. The figures shown relate to registered Health Service patients, resident within the specified Constituency.
3. Some patients could not be matched against a valid postcode, so could not be allocated to a Parliamentary Constituency
Colonic and Rectal Surgery Services at Altnagelvin Area Hospital
Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the level of colonic and rectal surgery services at Altnagelvin Area Hospital.
(AQW 7473/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Altnagelvin Hospital provides a full range of colorectal services, including colorectal surgery for the population of the Western Trust area. Both inpatient and outpatient services are provided.
Following the recent resignation of two colorectal surgeons, the Western Trust has initiated a recruitment process for their replacement. The Trust, in consultation with other Trusts, is developing a transition plan to ensure that services to patients served by Altnagelvin are sustained until new staff are in post.
Smoking in Public Places
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many incidents of smoking in public places, in contravention of the Smoking (Northern Ireland) Order 2006, have been recorded by each of the 26 local government district councils since it took legal effect on 30th April 2007.
(AQW 7482/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Provisional figures up to 31 March 2008 show that, of 36,240 premises inspected, smoking in a smoke-free place was detected in 1,039 (2.9%) cases. A breakdown of this figure by district council area is shown in the following table.
Council |
Number of recorded incidents of smoking in a smoke-free place. |
|---|---|
Antrim Borough Council |
25 |
Ards Borough Council |
52 |
Armagh City & District Council |
17 |
Ballymena Borough Council |
63 |
Ballymoney Borough Council |
3 |
Banbridge District Council |
41 |
Belfast City Council |
19 |
Carrickfergus borough Council |
11 |
Castlereagh Borough Council |
185 |
Coleraine Borough Council |
11 |
Cookstown District Council |
8 |
Craigavon Borough Council |
55 |
Derry City Council |
75 |
Down District Council |
49 |
Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council |
Nil |
Fermanagh District Council |
18 |
Larne Borough Council |
5 |
Limavady Borough Council |
54 |
Lisburn City Council |
83 |
Magherafelt District Council |
27 |
Moyle District Council |
16 |
Newry & Mourne District Council |
35 |
Newtownabbey Borough Council |
8 |
North Down Borough Council |
85 |
Omagh District Council |
39 |
Strabane District Council |
55 |
Total |
1,039 |
Medical Records Staff
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many medical records staff are employed at each hospital.
(AQW 7487/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: This information is not held centrally and can only be obtained at disproportionate costs.
Nursing Vacancies
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many nursing vacancies there are currently in each hospital.
(AQW 7488/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Information in the form requested is not readily available and could only be provided at disproportionate cost.
Hospital Ward Clerks
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many ward clerks are currently employed in each hospital.
(AQW 7489/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: This information is not held centrally and can only be obtained at disproportionate costs.
Departmental Staff with Disabilities
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people with disabilities are currently employed by his Department.
(AQW 7493/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: 38 DHSSPS staff have declared a disability or long-term health condition.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people aged (i) under 25; (ii) between 25-35; (iii) between 35-50; and (iv) over 50, were diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency.
(AQW 7494/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not available.
Waiting Times for Restorative Dentistry
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what the average waiting time was for people requiring restorative dentistry in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency.
(AQW 7495/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Information on the average waiting time for people requiring reconstructive dentistry in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency is not available.
Taskforce on Speech and Language Therapy
Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he accepts the recommendations in the report by the Taskforce on Speech and Language Therapy; and to outline a timeframe for the implementation of the recommendations.
(AQW 7502/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I am currently considering the Report from the Regional Speech and Language Therapy Task Force. I will make an announcement about the Report and a timeframe before the end of June 2008.
Care Matters Strategy
Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the Care Matters strategy.
(AQW 7503/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The consultation on Care Matters in Northern Ireland ended on 3 September 2007 and I am pleased to advise that responses were broadly very positive and supportive of the proposals.
One of the main issues highlighted during the consultation was the need for adequate resources to implement the proposals. In response, my Department has secured a £10 million investment over the next three years to develop and enhance services for children and families by implementing key elements of Care Matters, and the related Families Matter and Adopting the Future strategies. This investment is linked to a range of PFA and PSA targets designed to reduce the number of children in care and improve outcomes for care-experienced young people.
We have also moved ahead with a number of individual policy initiatives outlined in the consultation document, such as the introduction of innovative guides for young people entering the care system. In addition, we are now considering the provisions of the Children and Young Person’s Bill currently before Parliament to ascertain whether it contains new proposals which would further strengthen the approach set out in Care Matters.
My Department is currently engaged in discussions with other Departments and our partners in the statutory and voluntary sectors to consider how best to move forward with wider-scale implementation of Care Matters. I expect to be in a position to make an initial announcement on the way ahead by early July and by September, I intend to publish a formal summary of the consultation responses, an action plan identifying a blueprint for implementation, and to establish the necessary infrastructure to oversee implementation in the longer term. I look forward to the continued support of other Departments in progressing this agenda.
Budget for Children and Young People
Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, following the publication of the Analysis of Public Expenditure on Children, if he has any plans to increase his budget for children and young people.
(AQW 7505/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The Analysis of Public Expenditure on Children was published in May 2007 and provided background for my Department in developing bids as part of the CSR2007 process.
As a consequence of the Final Executive Budget announced at the end of January 2008, I was able to allocate funding to provide additional services for children with complex needs, meet the costs of new child protection legislation and mainstream the Children and Young People’s Package.
In addition, I have also been able to invest in a range of service developments for children and young people. By 2010/2011, I will be investing an additional £10m per annum on improving children’s services to prevent children going into care and to improve the outcomes for those in care.
Knockbracken Health Care Centre
Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many cases of bullying and harassment in the last three years have been lodged by staff in the Knockbracken Health Care Centre; and the manner in which they were resolved.
(AQW 7515/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: There were four cases of bullying and harassment in this facility since 2005. Formal investigations were carried out in all four cases. Recommendations following the investigation included mediation, retraining and counselling.
Knockbracken Health Care Centre
Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the number of qualified nurses that have voluntarily downgraded themselves to nursing assistants in Knockbracken Health Care Centre; and their reasons for taking this action.
(AQW 7516/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: One qualified nurse in this facility has voluntarily requested to be downgraded citing personal stress as the reason for this request.
Knockbracken Health Care Centre
Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the number of disciplinary cases that have been taken in Knockbracken Health Care Centre in the last three years; and the reasons for them.
(AQW 7518/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: There were 23 disciplinary cases in this facility in the last three years. There are various reasons for these disciplinary cases ranging from failure to ensure a neutral working environment to casual absenteeism and work below an acceptable standard but given the sensitive nature of disciplinary cases I am not in a position to provide more detail.
Knockbracken Health Care Centre
Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many staff, broken down by grade, have taken early retirement or left on grounds of ill-health from Knockbracken Health Care Centre in the last three years.
(AQW 7519/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: A total of 66 staff from this facility have taken early retirement or left on the grounds of ill health since 2005. The details of staff numbers and the grade are set out in the following table: (This figure includes staff who have satisfied the criteria and been granted voluntary early retirement as a result of the re- organisation arising out of the RPA.)
Grade Description |
Staff Number |
|---|---|
Administrative & Clerical Grade 3 (9); Grade 4 (1); Grade 5 (3); Grade 8 (1); Grade 10 (1) |
15 |
Chief Executive |
1 |
Cleaner/Domestic Assistant (9); Domestic Supervisor (1) |
10 |
Medical Consultant |
1 |
Director of Human Resources |
1 |
Driver (D) |
2 |
Enrolled Nurse (Grade D) |
1 |
Hairdresser |
1 |
Laundry Worker (Agenda for Change Band 1) |
1 |
Mental Health Nurse (Agenda for Change Band 5) |
8 |
Mental Health Nurse Support (Agenda for Change Band 2) |
11 |
Nursing Assistant (Grade A) |
1 |
Personal Secretary (Grade 3) |
1 |
Senior Nurse/N.O. (Grade I) |
1 |
Sister/Charge Nurse (Grade F) |
2 |
Staff Nurse (Grade E) |
2 |
Telephonist (1) |
1 |
Unit Senior Manager l (1); Unit Senior Manager ll (5) |
6 |
Respite Care
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what extra resources he is putting into respite care for parents.
(AQW 7527/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The total budget secured under the Comprehensive Spending Review for children and adults with disabilities in Northern Ireland is £8m, £11m and £24m respectively over the next 3 years.
Meeting with the Commissioner for Children and Young People
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why he has yet to meet with the Commissioner for Children and Young People.
(AQW 7528/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I have in fact met twice with the Commissioner - on 29 June 2007 and 19 May 2008.
Children with Mental Health Needs
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he is taking to deal with the lack of beds for children with mental health needs.
(AQW 7529/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The new 18 bed mental health adolescent in-patient unit at Forster Green will be completed by 2010, and there are plans to build a new 15 bed Child and Family Centre linked to this. The Western HSS Board and HSC Trust are discussing the development of an interim children/young people in-patient unit within one of the two psychiatric hospitals in their area, until the new unit at Foster Green reaches full capacity. A new privately operated facility of around 30 beds for young people aged 12 – 17 has also been proposed. Should this go ahead, Health and Social Services Boards could commission additional in-patient provision from it.
However, in line with the Bamford Review recommendations, I intend to concentrate on developing community based care and minimising our reliance on hospital in-patient care. I will therefore re-assess the need for further statutory in-patient provision, following the completion of the new facility at Foster Green, and in the light of developments in the community and independent sectors.
Cross-Departmental Approaches to Health and Education
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he is taking with the Minister of Education to promote cross-departmental approaches to health and education issues.
(AQW 7530/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I have set up a regular Permanent Secretaries meeting between the Department for Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Department for Education. This is the conduit for all cross-departmental issues, for example, child protection, looked after children, children, young people and their families, speech and language therapy, domestic violence and drugs and alcohol.
I have also met with the Minister of Education on a number of occasions over the last twelve months to discuss a wide range of issues. In addition the Minister of Education and I sit on a number of inter-ministerial groups.
Families Matter Strategy
Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the Families Matter strategy.
(AQW 7532/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The strategy was received positively by the Health Committee on the 22 May and will be tabled at the next Executive meeting on 19 June. It would then be my intention to launch the family support strategy Families Matter: Supporting Families in Northern Ireland at the beginning of July.
Meeting with the Commissioner for Children and Young People
Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he has held meetings with the Commissioner for Children and Young People or her staff; and what was the purpose of these meetings.
(AQW 7533/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I have had two meetings with the Commissioner - on 29 June 2007 and 19 May 2008, when we covered a number of issues of mutual interest.
Waiting Times for Hip and Knee Replacements
Mr Newton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people are currently on the waiting list for (i) a hip replacement operation; and (ii) a knee replacement operation; and what is the average waiting time for each of these operations.
(AQW 7545/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: At 31 st March 2008, the most recent quarter for which official waiting time data are available, there were 560 patients, recorded on the DHSSPS Inpatient Waiting Times Dataset, as waiting for a hip replacement operation and 587 patients recorded as waiting for a knee replacement operation.
The average waiting time for these patients was 71 days for a hip replacement operation and 69 days for a knee replacement operation.
Source: DHSSPS Inpatient Waiting Times Dataset.
School Age Childcare Services
Mr A Maskey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action has been taken by his Department to prevent the closure of School Age Childcare Services which were established under Governmental policy (Children First, 1999), given the fact that Playboard have began informing parents that the service may not be available during the summer holidays and that a number of staff may face redundancy.
(AQW 7556/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: DHSSPS involvement for the support of afterschool provision with regard to Children and Young People’s Package monies has been solely to act as a funding mechanism for centrally earmarked resources. Even though this funding arrangement and DHSSPS remit ended on 31 March 2008, I extended funding to afterschool groups until 30 June 2008, using my own resources, to enable them to continue until the end of the school year.
While I do not consider that these projects come under my area of responsibility, I am not prepared to see them abandoned as they play a valuable role in helping to support children and their families. I have therefore decided that I will extend this funding from 30 June 2008 until the end of this calendar year. I understand that discussions will be on-going in relation to where departmental responsibility for childcare and these projects lie.
This arrangement will give the after school projects time to plan for their future.
Agenda for Change Band 4
Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety which bands joiners have been assigned under Agenda for Change, in each Health and Social Care Trust.
(AQW 7565/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The management in all HSC organisations working in partnership with local staff representative groups have either matched the skills and responsibilities of the jobs against benchmark national job profiles or where that has not been possible have evaluated the job to arrive at the Agenda for Change grading. Using these agreed principles joiners in the Belfast and Southern Trusts have been matched to the Agenda for Change Band 4; in the South Eastern Trust there is a mixture of Band 3 and Band 4 jobs and in the Northern and Western Trusts the joiners have been matched to Band 3.
Forensic Psychiatrists
Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what funding has been provided to the Southern Health and Social Care Trust to appoint forensic psychiatrists; and how many forensic psychiatrists have been appointed by the Trust.
(AQW 7612/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: £1m was allocated regionally to the Boards and Trusts in 07/08 for the further development of Community Forensic Mental Health services, which was a target in Priorities for Action. This added to an earlier allocation of £1m, made for 04/05, to develop consultant-led community forensic teams to complement the investment in the medium secure unit at Knockbracken, and with which forensic psychiatrists were to be appointed.
While all other Trusts have appointed Forensic Psychiatrists, and despite running a number of competitions, the Southern Trust has not yet been able to appoint a Consultant in Forensic Psychiatry. Further interviews are however scheduled for the end of June 2008.
Paramedic Cover in Omagh
Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many weekends in the last 5 months Omagh has been left without paramedic cover, with vehicles being staffed by all-technician crews.
(AQW 7667/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I have been advised that there have been no occasions over the past five months when a paramedic ambulance service response has not been available in the Omagh area. The ambulance service routinely responds to emergency calls in a variety of ways including mobile paramedic officers, paramedics in rapid response vehicles and A&E ambulances crewed by both paramedics and emergency medical technicians.
Ambulance resources are managed on a Northern Ireland basis and specific requests for a paramedic response are considered and addressed in the context of all available resources not just those based in a particular area.
Trained Ambulance Staff in Omagh
Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many staff are based at the Ambulance Headquarters at Omagh; how many staff are (a) fully trained; and (b) trainees; and how many are from the Omagh area.
(AQW 7670/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) has confirmed that there are currently 41 A&E ambulance personnel based in Omagh ambulance station. Of these, 33 are fully trained, 8 are trainee emergency medical technicians or paramedics and 10 live in the Omagh area.
Ambulance Resources in Fermanagh and Tyrone
Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service was notified of the new ambulance resources for Tyrone and Fermanagh prior to the announcement by the Minister; and when these resources will be available on the ground.
(AQW 7673/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I commissioned the Western Health and Social Services Board to develop proposals to improve emergency response in Fermanagh and West Tyrone. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) was closely engaged throughout that process and made an important contribution to the development of those proposals. I have now asked the Western Board to bring forward by mid-June a costed implementation plan for their proposed improvements, in association with NIAS.
Clostridium Difficile
Mr Molloy asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people were treated in each hospital for clostridium difficile in (i) 2007; and (ii) 2008.
(AQW 7687/08)
Mr M McGimpsey:
Northern |
2007 |
2008 |
|---|---|---|
Antrim |
163 |
73 |
Whiteabbey |
36 |
27 |
Mid Ulster |
38 |
27 |
Moyle |
12 |
16 |
Braind Valley |
22 |
4 |
Causeway |
55 |
27 |
Robinson |
2 |
2 |
Dalriada |
1 |
0 |
Hollywell |
0 |
0 |
Total |
329 |
176 |
All age groups
Western |
2007 |
2008 |
|---|---|---|
Altnagelvin |
136 |
58 |
Tyrone County |
17 |
11 |
Erne |
10 |
6 |
Total |
163 |
75 |
All age groups
Southern |
2007 |
2008 |
|---|---|---|
Craigavon Area Hospital |
79 |
48 |
Daisy Hill |
8 |
14 |
Lurgan |
24 |
11 |
South Tyrone |
1 |
4 |
Mullinure |
4 |
2 |
Total |
116 |
79 |
All age groups
Belfast |
2007 |
2008 |
|---|---|---|
Belfast City |
149 |
56 |
Cancer Centre (previously Belvoir Park) |
27 |
10 |
Royal Victoria |
134 |
70 |
Mater |
55 |
38 |
Muckamore Abbey |
3 |
2 |
Knockbracken |
1 |
1 |
Musgrave Park |
15 |
9 |
Total |
384 |
186 |
All age groups
South Eastern Trust
The South Eastern Trust can only provide robust validated figures for patient in the age group 65>
South Eastern |
2007 |
2008 |
|---|---|---|
Ulster |
187 |
39 |
Ards |
|
1 |
Downe |
19 |
5 |
Lagan Valley |
|
5 |
Total |
206 |
50 |
As of April 2008 mandatory surveillance covers all patient episodes regardless of age.
Respite Facilities
Mr Molloy asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many respite places are available in the (i) Magherafelt District Council; (ii) Cookstown District Council; and (iii) Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, areas.
(AQW 7688/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The information is not available in the form requested.
Waiting Times for Arthritis Patients
Mr Irwin asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on his Department's efforts to reduce waiting times for the receipt of treatment for arthritis with the range of Anti TNF drugs currently available.
(AQW 7690/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: In the last two years over 540 patients have been started on anti-TNF therapy for the treatment of arthritic conditions and in total the health service in Northern Ireland now spends around £9 million on these drugs each year. At the end of March 2008 there were 865 patients receiving treatment with anti-TNF drugs and 536 people on the waiting list for anti-TNF treatment for arthritis.
I am fully committed to further improving access to anti-TNF drugs for severe arthritis. In the budget, I secured additional funding amounting to £39 million for specialist drugs and the infrastructure for their delivery. A significant part of that allocation will ensure that the waiting time for biological treatments for arthritis is reduced to 21 weeks by March 2011.
Treating a significantly increased number of patients will require a sizeable step-up in infrastructure to deliver the treatment safely. Health and Social Services Boards and Trusts have therefore agreed a stepped reduction in waiting times over the next three years, with interim targets of an 18 month waiting time by March 2009 and a maximum 9 month wait by March 2010.
Orthopaedic Appointments at Altnagelvin Hospital
Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many patients from the Western Health and Social Care Trust area, awaiting orthopaedic appointments at Altnagelvin Hospital (i) were offered appointments at the North West Independent Hospital; and (ii) subsequently had follow up appointments and surgery at the North West Independent Hospital, in the (a) 2005-06; (b) 2006-07; and (c) 2007-08 financial years; and how much was paid by the Western Health and Social Care Trust to cover the cost of all such appointments and surgical procedures.
(AQW 7744/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is set out below:
Number of orthopaedic patients from the Western Health and Social Care Trust seen at the North West Independent Hospital (NWIH)
|
Outpatients sent to NWIH |
Number of patients who had surgery at NWIH |
Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
2005/06 |
None |
None |
0 |
2006/07 |
991 |
503 |
£2.3m |
2007/08 |
390 |
864 |
£3.453m |
Source: Western Health and Social Care Trust
Notes:
1. Number of patients who had surgery reflects both outpatient conversions and daycase / inpatient waiting list patients
It has been necessary to use the independent sector to supplement health service capacity to deliver the reductions in waiting times seen over the last year. This will continue to be necessary while waiting times are further reduced and any shortfalls in capacity addressed.
Waiting Times for Ambulances
Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what measures he is taking to ensure that ambulances arrive at rural destinations as quickly as possible despite ambulance staff being forbidden to give the name of the person they are attending when seeking directions.
(AQW 7814/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) has a range of measures to identify the location of emergency incidents to support prompt response. These are:
- the structured training provided to its call-handlers;
- the telephone service provider’s Enhanced Information System for Emergency Calls (EISEC) which links caller identification to location information;
- digital mapping linking call location to postcode or address; and
- a new satellite navigation system in ambulances to supplement the ambulance driver’s knowledge.
Should ambulance personnel require further support and information about incident locations, this must be sought without compromising patient confidentiality.
The improvement in emergency response times recorded throughout Northern Ireland over the past year clearly shows that ambulances are arriving at both rural and urban emergency response locations more quickly than ever before.
School Age Childcare Services in West Tyrone
Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he is taking to meet the requirements of School Age Childcare Services in West Tyrone constituency, with specific reference to Carrickmore, Loughmacrory, Sixmilecross, Strathroy and Strabane.
(AQW 7815/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: DHSSPS involvement for the support of afterschool provision with regard to Children and Young People’s Package monies has been solely to act as a funding mechanism for centrally earmarked resources. Even though this funding arrangement and DHSSPS remit ended on 31 March 2008, I extended funding to afterschool groups until 30 June 2008, using my own resources, to enable them to continue until the end of the school year.
While I do not consider that these projects come under my area of responsibility, I am not prepared to see them abandoned as they play a valuable role in helping to support children and their families. I have therefore decided that I will extend this funding from 30 June 2008 until the end of this calendar year. I understand that discussions will be on-going in relation to where departmental responsibility for childcare and these projects lie.
This arrangement will give the after school projects time to plan for their future.
Cheap Alcohol
Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he has had contact with supermarkets or drinks companies following his recent comments on the availability of cheap alcohol.
(AQO 3762/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: I intend to meet with a broad range of representatives from the industry, including producers, supermarkets and other retailers, and bars/pubs/clubs, to discuss issues relating to alcohol misuse, underage and binge drinking prior to the summer.
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the positive responses I have received to date on this issue, particularly from Sainsbury’s, the Musgrave Group, and the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Association. We have also raised the issue with the Federation of Retail Licenced Trade and the Northern Ireland Drinks Industry Group who are keen to be involved in this process.
Schizophrenia
Mr Dallat asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline his policy on treating people with schizophrenia or suspected schizophrenia.
(AQO 3771/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: Schizophrenia is one of the more common, severe and enduring mental health disorders. As with many other psychiatric illnesses, it is usually treated by a combination of social, psychotherapy and pharmalogical interventions. People with schizophrenia are treated in mainstream mental health services.
The Executive’s formal response to the Bamford Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability will shortly be issued for public consultation. This document includes my Department’s proposals to modernise the full range of mental health services.
Referral to Hospitals
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what policies his Department has available for patients to choose which hospital they receive treatment.
(AQW 7839/08)
Mr M McGimpsey: The decision to refer a patient to hospital for investigation or treatment will be influenced by the patient’s condition and its severity and also by patient preference. Patients will typically discuss treatment options with their general practitioner in reaching a decision about the appropriate referral and treatment. Within the health service, patients may request that they are referred to a specific hospital for treatment. It has been customary for patient preferences to be accommodated where possible within the Northern Ireland health system.
Health and Social Services Boards, who commission services in Northern Ireland, operate arrangements to manage the referral of patients between Board areas, other parts of the UK and, where appropriate, outside the UK.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Discharges from Waste Water Treatment Works
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Regional Development what action his Department is taking to monitor discharges from waste water treatment works.
(AQW 7392/08)
The Minister for Regional Development (Mr C Murphy): Discharges from Northern Ireland Water (NIW) Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTW) are subject to control under the Water ( Northern Ireland) Order 1999. Under the Order, no discharge can be made to a waterway or underground stratum without the consent of the Department of the Environment. The Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) sets discharge consents detailing conditions relating to the quality and quantity of effluent that can be discharged to the water environment and these include the requirements of relevant European Directives.
Compliance is assessed by EHS using data provided by NIW in accordance with an agreed monitoring programme and is reported annually. I have been advised that NIW’s sampling staff and laboratories are fully accredited to ISO 17025 and are audited by external accreditation bodies and EHS. EHS also requires NIW to model all new WWTW discharging to the marine environment to display compliance with the microbiological standards set in the existing and revised Bathing Water Directive.
Pollution of Beaches
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Regional Development, in light of the Marine Conservation Society's 'Good Beach Guide', what liaison has taken place with Northern Ireland Water, to ensure that it is not adding to the pollution of beaches.
(AQW 7393/08)
Mr C Murphy: Discharges by Northern Ireland Water (NIW) are subject to full environmental regulation by the Environment and Heritage Service of DOE under the consenting regime set out in the Water (NI) Order 1999. The Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) continues to meet regularly with NIW to detail the requirements of new and existing Waste Water Treatment Works (WWTWs). EHS requires NIW to model all new WWTWs discharging to the marine environment to demonstrate compliance with the microbiological standards set in the existing and revised Bathing Water Directive. EHS and NIW meet bi-monthly to discuss the Northern Ireland Drainage Area Plan where EHS sets standards for all potential discharges from the North’s sewer network. All intermittent discharges at bathing waters include a spill frequency which is set in order to afford protection to the receiving water.
My Department is currently providing investment of half a billion pounds to bring waste water treatment to required standards by 2014. The benefits this investment will provide for bathing water quality were acknowledged by the Marine Conservation Society in its Good Beach Guide for 2008. My officials are in regular contact with NIW and the relevant regulatory authorities on a range of environmental matters.
Departmental Travel Expenses
Mr Savage asked the Minister for Regional Development how much his Department has spent on travel expenses since devolution.
(AQW 7422/08)
Mr C Murphy: My Department spent £2,613,336 on official travel expenses in the period from devolution on 8 May 2007 to 31 May 2008. £62,787 was also spent on travel and subsistence for staff on training courses, conferences and further education training but it is not possible to separately identify the travel amounts.
Financial Cost of Division
Dr Farry asked the Minister for Regional Development what conclusions have been drawn from the report of Deloitte and Touche into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide (i) on his Department's work; and (ii) in relation to potential efficiency savings.
(AQW 7439/08)
Mr C Murphy: The report highlights roads, public transport and the school bus service, as specific areas within my Department where the costs of division can be identified and where potential savings might be gained as a result of the peace process and greater integration. I would agree with the report’s identification of these areas. However, although some efficiency savings have been evident in recent years these have been relatively small in relation to the Department’s overall budget and are likely to be minimal in future years.
Metal Theft on Railway Lines
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development how many incidents of 'metal theft' were recorded on the rail network in each of the last 5 years; and the cost to make good any damage caused.
(AQW 7474/08)
Mr C Murphy: Northern Ireland Railways have reported there have been no incidents of metal theft in each of the last five years.
Damage to Railway Lines
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development how much it has cost to repair railway lines damaged by vandalism in each of the last 5 years.
(AQW 7475/08)
Mr C Murphy: The reported cost to repair railway lines damaged by vandalism in each of the last five years is as follows:
2003/04 £3
2004/05 £0
2005/06 £3
2006/07 £124
2007/08 £4
Total £134
The reason why the figures are low is that it takes extreme force to damage rail and specialist tools to dismantle it. As a result, damage sustained has been mainly at crossings, which can be easily accessed. Such damage is generally caused by fire, usually a burning vehicle.
Comber Town Bus Service
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development how many passengers have used the new Comber Town Bus Service since its inception in September 2007.
(AQW 7476/08)
Mr C Murphy: The information is not available in the form requested. Translink records the number of trips undertaken rather than the number of passengers. The number of passenger trips recorded for the Comber Town Service No. 311, from 3 September 2007 to 25 May 2008 was 1,261.
Road Standards
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development if his Department retains a bond for developers to ensure that roads are finished with tarmac that meets his Department's road standards.
(AQW 7496/08)
Mr C Murphy: Prior to starting building works on any development, where the layout of roads and footways has been determined under the Private Streets (Northern Ireland) Order 1980, a developer is required to enter into an agreement with my Department‘s Roads Service to provide the roads to the Department’s standards, as prescribed in The Private Streets (Construction) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1994.
This agreement is secured by a bond, which may be used by Roads Service to complete the road works should the developer default.
Traffic Congestion at the Stranmillis Roundabout
Mr Spratt asked the Minister for Regional Development what measures he intends to take to alleviate traffic congestion around the Stranmillis roundabout in South Belfast.
(AQW 7498/08)
Mr C Murphy: Stranmillis Roundabout, in common with many junctions throughout the Greater Belfast area, caters for a high number of vehicles, particularly at peak traffic times. Officials from my Department’s Road Services have advised that they have carried out observations at the roundabout during peak traffic times and have noted that vehicles pass through the junction in a slow and controlled manner. It is considered that the roundabout copes well with the conflicting demands of traffic and delays are not considered to be excessive. Roads Service, therefore, has no plans, to change the road layout or introduce additional traffic control measures at this roundabout at this time.
Grass-Cutting on the Ards Peninsula
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development how many tractors for grass-cutting are owned by his Department in each parliamentary constituency; and, in particular, for use in the Ards Peninsula.
(AQW 7538/08)
Mr C Murphy: In relation to AQW 7538/08, my Department’s Roads Service has advised me that it has 67 tractor/mower units available for grass cutting. Unfortunately, the location of these units is not broken down on a parliamentary constituency basis. However, the location of these units and the Council Area/Areas that are serviced by each Depot are listed in the table below.
Location of tractor/mower unit |
Council Area serviced by each depot |
Number of units at each depot |
|---|---|---|
Antrim Depot |
Antrim |
4 |
Armagh Depot |
Armagh |
2 |
Arvalee Depot |
Omagh |
4 |
Ballycastle Depot |
Moyle |
2 |
Ballymena Depot |
Ballymena |
4 |
Ballymoney Depot |
Ballymoney |
2 |
Banbridge Depot |
Banbridge |
2 |
Bangor Depot |
Ards and North Down |
4 |
Castlenavan Depot |
Down |
4 |
Coleraine Depot |
Coleraine |
6 |
Cookstown Depot |
Cookstown |
2 |
Craigavon Depot |
Craigavon |
1 |
Dungannon Depot |
Dungannon |
5 |
Enniskillen Depot |
Fermanagh |
6 |
Larne Depot |
Larne |
2 |
Limavady Depot |
Limavady |
2 |
Londonderry Depot |
Derry |
4 |
Magherafelt Depot |
Magherafelt |
2 |
Sandyknowes Depot |
Carrickfergus, Newtownabbey & parts of Belfast |
2 |
Sprucefield Depot |
Lisburn |
5 |
Strabane Depot |
Strabane |
2 |
TOTAL |
|
67 |
I understand that in a number of Council areas external contractors are involved in grass cutting operations
I am further advised that the Roads Service have 3 tractors that are used for grass cutting in the Ards Peninsula and as the grass cutting season progresses, mowers that become free are shared between neighbouring council areas to maximise use of available equipment.
Grass-Cutting on the Ards Peninsula
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development to explain the delay in cutting grass verges on the roads of the Ards Peninsula; when will the grass cutting start; and what is the schedule for the Ards Peninsula.
(AQW 7539/08)
Mr C Murphy: In relation to AQW 7539/08 Roads Service has advised me that its current grass cutting policy stipulates that grass in rural areas is cut twice per annum (or as required at junction sightlines for road safety purposes). Rural grass cutting normally commences on the first week in May and continues to around mid–September. This policy sets a target for completion of 90% of the first cut by the end of June.
Grass cutting to roads in the Ards Section commenced on 13 May 2008 and approximately 37% of the first cut has been completed. It is anticipated that the overall target of 90% of the first cut will be completed in rural areas by the end of June 2008.
20/mph Speed Limit in School Areas
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to introduce a 20 mph speed limit in the vicinity of schools.
(AQW 7544/08)
Mr C Murphy: The introduction of speed limits at schools has been considered by both my Department’s Roads Service and the PSNI, who are responsible for enforcement. It is acknowledged that for a large percentage of the time, for example at nights, weekends and holiday periods, reduced speed limits at schools may be totally inappropriate. Experience has shown that inappropriate speed limits are often ignored and may have the potential to bring speed limits, generally, into disrepute.
However, Roads Service is planning to pilot a variable speed limit at two schools over the next year, to measure their effectiveness. A variable speed limit at a school refers to a part-time speed limit, for example 20mph, which is effective at certain times of the day, when children are arriving and leaving. The speed limit is indicated by a variable message sign on the approach to the school and would be enforced by the police, in the normal manner.
The necessary orders for sign authorisations and speed limit changes are currently being processed. Once these pilots have been installed, they will be monitored and assessed to determine their effectiveness at reducing traffic speeds and other dangers, before consideration is given to introducing a more widespread programme outside schools where traffic speeds are high.
As part of its Safer Routes to Schools programme, Roads Service continues to work proactively with schools across the North to promote road safety at schools and on the journey to school. Since this initiative started in 2001, Roads Service has implemented a series of speed management measures at around 140 schools, with a further 50 planned for 2008/09. These measures alert drivers to the presence of school children and encourage them to drive responsibly.
Sewer Laying Work on Summerhill Avenue
Mr Newton asked the Minister for Regional Development what progress has been made on the sewer laying work currently underway on Summerhill Avenue and adjacent streets; and when the work will be completed.
(AQW 7570/08)
Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that the work currently underway on Summerhill Avenue is part of the Cloughan Park Sewerage Project. The work involves the laying of sewers to improve the drainage in the area and reduce the risk of out of sewer flooding. Progress has been slower than anticipated as excavation work for the sewers has encountered difficult ground conditions. However, it is expected that work on the project will be completed by August 2008.
Daily Vehicle Use of the B23
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister for Regional Development how many vehicles, on average, use the B23 route on a daily basis.
(AQW 7599/08)
Mr C Murphy: With regard to AQW 7599/08, officials from my Department’s Roads Service have advised that some 270 traffic census sites are strategically located throughout the North, on both the major and minor road network. Traffic flows are monitored at each of these sites for at least one week in every quarter of the year and an annual average is then calculated. The information is then published in the Traffic and Travel Information Report.
Roads Service has a traffic census point located on the B23 Hillhall Road, Lisburn, near Ballyaghlis. The annual average daily two way traffic flow in 2006, the latest year for which information is available, was 12,260 vehicles per day.
Brownfield Land
Mr Wells asked the Minister for Regional Development when the Regional Development Strategy will be amended to exclude gardens from land defined as brownfield for development purposes.
(AQW 7603/08)
Mr C Murphy: I am changing the definition of brownfield land to exclude the gardens of dwelling houses as part of the 5 year review of the Regional Development Strategy. I expect to publish the review document by the end of June.
Improvements on the B23
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline what plans he has to upgrade the B23 route.
(AQW 7604/08)
Mr C Murphy: In relation to AQW 7604/08, Roads Service carried out a route study on the B23, Hillhall Road and the connecting routes on the B205, Ballylesson Road and Purdysburn Hill in 1999. This study identified a number of schemes, of which three have since been completed. The most recent being a junction improvement, at the Glen Road/261 Hillhall Road junction, completed in November 2006.
You may also be aware that a collision remedial scheme is currently in progress on the Hillhall Road, 250m south of the junction with the Glen Road. This scheme involves the provision of high friction surfacing and enhanced signing and should be completed by the end of June 2008.
In light of the continuing development in the Lisburn City area, Roads Service recently initiated a further route study which is nearing completion. This has identified the potential for further schemes to enhance road safety and traffic progression thereby reducing driver frustration. These proposals will now be considered for inclusion in Roads Service’s Minor Works programme.
It should be noted, however, that route studies are for feasibility purposes only, with no guarantee that proposals will be implemented, as they are subject to the availability of the necessary lands and finances and must compete for priority with all other minor works proposals in the Division.
Rail Travel Time between Belfast and Dublin
Mr Dallat asked the Minister for Regional Development when he will be in a position to announce a reduction in the travel time by rail between Belfast and Dublin.
(AQO 3745/08)
Mr C Murphy: Work is ongoing to develop a business case for improving railway services between Belfast and Dublin. The work is being taken forward jointly by Iarnrod Eireann and Translink.
When the fully costed Business Case is complete, it will be considered by the North South Ministerial Council. After that the necessary resources to fund the preferred option will have to be identified.
It is only when this process has been completed that I will be in a position to make any announcements.
Departmental Staff with Disabilties
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development how many people with disabilities are currently employed by his Department.
(AQW 7618/08)
Mr C Murphy: Amongst the Department’s current workforce, a total of 90 individual members of staff have declared that they have a disability.
Proposed Footpath at Clanabogan Hamlet in Cavanacaw in Omagh
Mr Buchanan asked the Minister for Regional Development when work to the proposed footpath at Clanabogan Hamlet, Cavanacaw, Omagh, is due to start.
(AQW 7668/08)
Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised that it plans to carry out the design and acquisition of any necessary land for the footpath along the Old Clanabogan Road, this financial year.
It is anticipated that work will commence on site during the 2009/10 financial year, subject to Roads Service funding levels remaining as anticipated.
Penalty Charge Notices in Omagh
Mr Buchanan asked the Minister for Regional Development how many Penalty Charge Notices were issued in Omagh from 1 January 2008 to 31 May 2008; and how many of these were overturned on appeal.
(AQW 7669/08)
Mr C Murphy: Officials in my Department’s Roads Service have advised that from 1 January 2008 to 31 May 2008, a total of 2,207 Penalty Charge Notices were issued in Omagh. To date, 332 of these have been cancelled following consideration of challenges, representations and formal appeals.
Greenan Graveyard in County Tyrone
Mr McElduff asked the Minister for Regional Development (i) what remedial action has been taken by the Roads Service to prevent further flooding at Greenan graveyard near Gortin, County Tyrone; (ii) what communications have taken place between his Department and family members of those buried in Greenan graveyard; and (iii) whether he is considering compensation for repairs to graves damaged by past flooding.
(AQW 7811/08)
Mr C Murphy: The Department has exercised its discretionary powers of improvement and has replaced a 50 metre stretch of the former 6 inch diameter road drain pipe system with 12 inch diameter pipe linked to enlarged road gullies. Certain family members have been in correspondence with Central Claims Unit, the legal office which handles claims work and litigation on behalf of the Department. They have lodged compensation claims, which have been legally assessed and rejected. As this is an ongoing legal matter it would be inappropriate to comment on it further.
Traffic Accidents on the Hillhall Road
Mr McElduff asked the Minister for Regional Development (i) how many accidents occurred on the Hillhall Road between Lisburn and Belfast in the week commencing Monday 26 May; (ii) how these accidents impacted on the traffic flow to and from Belfast; and (iii) his strategy for keeping traffic moving in the event of future hold-ups on the Hillhall Road.
(AQW 7812/08)
Mr C Murphy: It is normal practice for my Department’s Road Service to receive information from the PSNI concerning traffic collisions which result in personal injury. To date, no such details have been received for the week commencing Monday 26 May 2008. However, Roads Service officials are aware of five collisions occurring along the length of the B23, which includes the Hillhall Road, during this week. Roads Service is aware that these collisions resulted in the road being closed for a time.
In the event of road traffic collisions, responsibility for implementing emergency traffic measures lies with the PSNI. The PSNI may advise Roads Service of the situation and request assistance to alleviate resulting traffic delays. On receipt of such information, Roads Service officials make it immediately available to the public through the broadcast media and a recorded telephone message service.
Junction Realignments in Castlederg
Mr Doherty asked the Minister for Regional Development to give a timescale for completion of the junction realignment of Corgary Road/Park Road with the Magheranageeragh/Aghyaran Road upper, Castlederg.
(AQW 7822/08)
Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised that it has an assessment procedure that compares and prioritises potential schemes, taking into account a number of factors, including traffic volumes, pedestrian usage and the history of accidents. Schemes with the highest priority are included in the annual programme of Local Transport and Safety Measures (LTSMs). Each year the proposals in the draft two year programme are considered, to determine which schemes can be delivered in that financial year.
In relation to AQW 7822/08, Roads Service officials have advised that the scheme to improve visibility at the junction of Corgary Road/Park Road with the Magheranageeragh/Aghayaran Road Upper, was included in the draft LTSM programme for the years 2008/09 and 2009/10, which was presented to Strabane District Council in December 2007. While this scheme is not included in the programme for 2008/09, it will be considered for inclusion in the 2009/10 programme for the Strabane District Council area, subject to the availability of land and resources.
In relation to AQW 7823/08, my officials have advised that Roads Service proposes to carry out a collision remedial scheme at the Carn Road and Magheranageeragh Road junction. The scheme involves replacing the crossroads with a staggered junction and improvements to the sightlines.
The scheme is already in the 2008/09 LTSM programme for the Strabane District Council area and, provided the land required for the works can be successfully acquired, the works will be undertaken this year.
Junction Realignments in Castlederg
Mr Doherty asked the Minister for Regional Development to give a timescale for completion of sightline improvements at the junction of Carn Road and Magheranageeragh Road, Castlederg.
(AQW 7823/08)
Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has advised that it has an assessment procedure that compares and prioritises potential schemes, taking into account a number of factors, including traffic volumes, pedestrian usage and the history of accidents. Schemes with the highest priority are included in the annual programme of Local Transport and Safety Measures (LTSMs). Each year the proposals in the draft two year programme are considered, to determine which schemes can be delivered in that financial year.
In relation to AQW 7822/08, Roads Service officials have advised that the scheme to improve visibility at the junction of Corgary Road/Park Road with the Magheranageeragh/Aghayaran Road Upper, was included in the draft LTSM programme for the years 2008/09 and 2009/10, which was presented to Strabane District Council in December 2007. While this scheme is not included in the programme for 2008/09, it will be considered for inclusion in the 2009/10 programme for the Strabane District Council area, subject to the availability of land and resources.
In relation to AQW 7823/08, my officials have advised that Roads Service proposes to carry out a collision remedial scheme at the Carn Road and Magheranageeragh Road junction. The scheme involves replacing the crossroads with a staggered junction and improvements to the sightlines.
The scheme is already in the 2008/09 LTSM programme for the Strabane District Council area and, provided the land required for the works can be successfully acquired, the works will be undertaken this year.
Water Bills
Mr G Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development what (i) exemptions; and (ii) discounts, are available in relation to water bills for (a) charitable organisations; and (ii) community associations.
(AQW 7862/08)
Mr C Murphy: The Independent Water Review Panel in their Strand 1 report recommended that payment for water and sewerage services should be extended to all non-domestic consumers and should be reviewed by the Regulator in due course. The Executive accepted this recommendation but agreed to phase in the new non-domestic payments over a two year period with customers paying 50% in 2008/09 and 100% in 2009/10. Accordingly, all non-domestic premises including charitable organisations and community associations have been billed for water and sewerage services since April. Many non-domestic customers (including some charitable organisations) have paid metered water charges for many years and NIW continues to extend metering throughout the non-domestic sector.
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Improvements in Housing Executive Housing
Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development how much money has been spent on improving housing conditions in (i) nationalist housing executive areas; and (ii) unionist housing executive areas, over the last three years.
(AQW 7162/08)
The Minister for Social Development (Ms M Ritchie): Information is not collated by nationalist or unionist area and could only be provided at disproportionate cost. A table detailing the expenditure has been placed in the Assembly Library.
Housing in the Harbour Area in Bangor
Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development how much money will be invested in the Harbour area of Bangor to improve housing.
(AQW 7165/08)
Ms M Ritchie: There is no existing social housing stock within the Harbour area of Bangor. However, there are new build schemes within the area included in the Social Housing Development Programme as detailed in the following table:
North Down Borough Council area 2008/09 – 20012/13
Housing Association |
Scheme Name |
Units |
Need Group |
|---|---|---|---|
2008/09 |
|
|
|
Belfast Community |
Acquisitions Phase 2, Bangor |
5 |
General Needs |
BIH |
1-3 Crawfordsburn Road , Bangor |
20 |
Elderly (CAT1) |
BIH |
Rathgill Zone 1, Bangor |
36 |
General Needs |
Oaklee |
Gibson's Lane, Bangor |
21 |
General Needs |
Oaklee |
Central Avenue, Bangor |
48 |
Elderly (CAT1) |
Oaklee |
Shaftesbury Road , Bangor |
35 |
Elderly (CAT1) |
Trinity |
115 - 117 Hamilton Road , Bangor |
6 |
Elderly (CAT1) |
Trinity |
38 - 40 Bryansburn Road , Bangor |
12 |
Elderly (CAT1) |
Trinity |
Holburn Avenue , Bangor |
14 |
Elderly (CAT1) |
Ulidia |
111 Hamilton Road , Bangor |
4 |
Singles/Couples |
2009/10 |
|
|
|
Clanmil |
267-271 Old Belfast Road , Bangor |
40 |
General Needs |
Clanmil |
South Circular Road , Bangor |
25 |
General Needs |
Fold |
Chester Avenue , Bangor |
7 |
General Needs |
Habinteg |
34-36 Bangor Road , Holywood |
8 |
General Needs |
Oaklee |
Strand Avenue , Millisle |
6 |
General Needs |
Trinity |
Strand Avenue , Holywood |
16 |
General Needs |
2010/11 |
|
|
|
Trinity |
Clandeboye Road , Bangor |
20 |
General Needs |
2012/13 |
|
|
|
BIH |
Bingham Street , Bangor |
20 |
General Needs |
Supported Selection |
UC&HT Dispersed, Phase 1, Bangor |
4 |
Learning Disabilities |
Marker Scheme |
Bloomfield/Balloo Marker |
275 |
General Needs |
Social Housing in East Belfast
Mr Newton asked the Minister for Social Development for (i) the total number of social houses in the East Belfast parliamentary constituency; and (ii) the number of those houses which are unoccupied.
(AQW 7168/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The information is not readily available by parliamentary constituency. The Housing Executive has 7284 properties of which 284 are unoccupied in their Belfast East and Castlereagh Districts. In East Belfast, housing associations have 2787 properties of which 47 are unoccupied.
Village Urban Renewal Area in South Belfast
Mr Spratt asked the Minister for Social Development what assistance will be available for houses within the 'Improvement area' of the Village Urban Renewal Area in South Belfast.
(AQW 7281/08)
Ms M Ritchie: Homeowners affected by vesting are entitled to the market value of their property at the date of vesting and also Home Loss and Disturbance payments. Homeowners can also appoint an agent to act on their behalf and appropriate fees will be paid by the Housing Executive. Tenants affected by the acquisition of property will also be entitled to Home Loss and Disturbance payments.
The Housing Executive has already issued an Advice and Guidance leaflet to all residents of Donegall Road who may be affected by the proposals.
Funding for Community and Voluntary Groups
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development how many community and voluntary groups her Department is currently funding; the amount of funding given to each project; and where these projects are based.
(AQW 7311/08)
Ms M Ritchie: In the months April and May of this current financial year 2008-2009the Department for Social Development has contracted almost £13.5m of funding to 211 voluntary and community organisations. This will increase further as work to finalise further annual contracts is completed, and contracts for funding are issued and accepted by more voluntary and community organisations. A table listing the amount of funding given to each of these 211 organisations has been placed in the library.
Housing Executive Improvement Schemes in North Belfast
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development for an update on the status of all improvement schemes that (i) are forthcoming; and (ii) may be postponed or discontinued by the Housing Executive in North Belfast.
(AQW 7395/08)
Ms M Ritchie: T he Housing Executive has an extensive programme for North Belfast involving planned Improvement Schemes for 2008/09 to 2012/13 and Group Repair Schemes for 2008/09 and 2009/10. I have arranged for a copy of the schedules to be placed in the Assembly Library.
Social Housing in North Belfast
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development how the additional resources that her Department received in the budget and monitoring rounds will impact on providing more social housing in North Belfast.
(AQW 7399/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The social housing programme is formulated on the basis of need rather than geographical area and is subject to land availability. Funding is therefore allocated through the programme taking these criteria into account. The additional funding will mean that significantly more new housing can be provided both in North Belfast and throughout the whole of Northern Ireland.
Departmental Grants
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development what grants are available through her Department for non-statutory bodies.
(AQW 7444/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The following is a list of the presently available funding programmes delivered by the Department for Social Development, which offer grants to individuals or to organisations.
The Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund
Areas at Risk Pilot Programme
Urban Development Grant
Laganside Events Grant
Laganside Community Activity Grant
Belfast City Centre Promotions
The Social Fund Community Care Grants
Sure Start Maternity Grants
Access to some Grants will be subject to the availability of funding and entitlement conditions.
European Social Funds
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development why her Department does not match fund European Social Funds available from the Department of Employment and Learning.
(AQW 7445/08)
Ms M Ritchie: My Department does provide match funding for projects in receipt of European Social Funds from the Department of Employment and Learning.
Increases in Fuel Prices
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister for Social Development what steps she is taking to negate the impact of increases in fossil fuel prices, in relation to heating systems in social housing and to combat fuel poverty.
(AQW 7471/08)
Ms M Ritchie: I do not have ministerial responsibility for energy policy or prices. Government has in place the right policies on energy efficiency and support to address fuel poverty over the longer-term. This year, I am planning to spend £14 million on improving energy efficiency in Housing Executive stock as well as substantial sums on the Warm Homes Scheme. In response to the recent sharp increases in fuel costs, I have focused work across Government and the wider energy sector in a Task Force on fuel poverty. The Task Force will report back to me later this summer. It is my intention to secure Executive support for a package of short-term measures to help those people most in need this winter.
Departmental Funding for Women's Groups
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development what funding has been made available by her Department to each women's group for the 2008-09 financial year; and what programme each group is funded under.
(AQW 7481/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The information requested is as follows:
Group Name |
Funding in 2008/09 |
|---|---|
Community Investment Fund |
£ |
Atlas Women’s Centre |
79,016.00 |
Ballybeen Women’s Centre |
80,000.00 |
Chrysalis Women’s Centre |
56,792.00 |
First Steps Women’s Group |
78,380.00 |
Footprints Women’s Centre |
80,000.00 |
Foyle Women’s Information Network |
51,232.25 |
Greenway Women’s Group |
80,000.00 |
Magherafelt Women’s Group |
77,065.09 |
Strathfoyle Women’s Activity Group Ltd |
72,419.68 |
The Women’s Centre Derry |
80,000.00 |
Waterside Women's Centre |
54,251.00 |
Windsor Women’s Centre |
73,504.45 |
Women's Centres Childcare Fund |
£ |
|---|---|
First Steps Women’s Group |
39,765.48 |
Greenway Women’s Group |
65,016.10 |
Strathfoyle Women’s Activity Group Ltd |
13,512.88 |
Regional Infrastructure Programme |
£ |
|---|---|
Women's Centres Regional Partnership |
334,757.00 |
Grants to Voluntary Bodies |
£ |
|---|---|
Omagh Women’s Area Network |
55,000.00 |
Community Volunteering Scheme 2006/2009 |
£ |
|---|---|
Falls Women's Centre |
29,493.00 |
Fermanagh Women’s Aid |
4,485.00 |
Footprints Women’s Centre |
30,000.00 |
Women’s Aid Belfast & Lisburn |
30,000.00 |
Modernisation Fund Revenue |
£ |
|---|---|
Women’s TEC |
26,817.00 |
Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund 1 |
£ |
|---|---|
Ardoyne Women’s Group |
19,587.51 |
Ashton Community Trust |
4,461.51 |
Ballymurphy Women's Centre |
44,376.36 |
Bogside and Brandywell Women’s Group 2 |
16,855.95 |
Falls Women's Centre |
50,870.68 |
Footprints Women's Centre |
95,942.00 |
Galliagh Women’s Group 2 |
14,942.93 |
Lenadoon Women’s Group |
15,883.89 |
Newtownabbey Women's Group |
8,913.20 |
Newtownards Women's Group Ltd |
47,270.08 |
North Belfast Women’s Initiative & Support Group |
13,068.80 |
Shankill Women’s Centre |
97,191.87 |
Voices Women’s Group |
13,458.20 |
Waterside Women’s Centre 2 |
4,120.14 |
Windsor Women's Centre |
10,875.63 |
Women’s News |
9,445.38 |
Note :
1 Funding provided under the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund covers the period 01/04/08 to 31/08/08.
2 Funding amounts are estimated based on 2007/08 funding awards as Contracts for Funding for 2008/09 have not yet issued.
Energy Efficiency in Housing Executive Homes
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development what proposals her Department has to introduce energy efficient heating and lighting systems into new homes being built by the Housing Executive.
(AQW 7485/08)
Ms M Ritchie: Housing Associations now provide all new social housing. The requirements set down by my Department for social housing are that new homes should achieve maximum energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact, heat loss and running costs.
All social new build self-contained homes are already required to achieve the Eco Homes very good standard, which is broadly equivalent to the three star rating of the ‘Code for Sustainable Homes’ standard.
Beechfield Estate in Donaghadee
Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development how many houses in the Beechfield Estate, Donaghadee, are owned by the Housing Executive.
(AQW 7491/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The Housing Executive owns 114 properties in the Beechfield Estate, Donaghadee.
Annadale Flat Multi-Element Improvement Scheme
Mr Spratt asked the Minister for Social Development how many (i) 3 bedroom; (ii) 2 bedroom; and (iii) 1 bedroom flats, owned by the Housing Executive, are projected to be in place following the planned Annadale Flat Multi-Element Improvement Scheme.
(AQW 7551/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The Annadale Flats Multi-Element Improvement Scheme proposes 17 three bedroom and 128 two bedroom flats. There will be no one bedroom flats.
Co-Ownership Housing Association
Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development how many houses are owned by co-ownership schemes in the North Down constituency.
(AQW 7581/08)
Ms M Ritchie: I refer the member to the written answer to Assembly Question 5882/08 on 29 April 2008. At 31 March 2008 there were 458 properties partly owned by the Northern Ireland Co-ownership Housing Association in the North Down constituency.
North Belfast Community Action Unit
Mr Cobain asked the Minister for Social Development what plans she has for the North Belfast Community Action Unit.
(AQW 7593/08)
Ms M Ritchie: TheNorth Belfast Community Action Unit is funded by the Office of the First and deputy First Minister and managed by DSD. The Unit was established in 2002 in response to community tension in North Belfast, at that time the Unit’s remit was further extended to 31 March 2009 following a review in 2006.
My department regularly reviews its operating environment to determine needs and how we can address them effectively, efficiently and improve our services.
I have asked officials in the Unit to examine conditions and the provision of services in North Belfast with a view to presenting recommendations for the future. I will discuss these recommendations with Ministerial Colleagues to enable us to provide a cost effective and efficient service to the community.
Bonfires
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development how much funding has the Housing Executive in Newtownards allocated for bonfire management in each of the last 5 years.
(AQW 7597/08)
Ms M Ritchie: During the past 5 years the Housing Executive has not allocated any funding in Newtownards for bonfire management. However, during that period costs to clear or reinstate grass areas following bonfires within the Newtownards area were:
2003 £3,890
2004 £2,720
2005 £600
2006 £500
2007 £4,179
Neighbourhood Renewal Funding
Mr Cobain asked the Minister for Social Development how many people will be made redundant due to the ending of Neighbourhood Renewal funding in North Belfast in August 2008; and what provision has been made to help voluntary and community organisations meet their legal requirements as employers in relation to redundancy payments.
(AQW 7613/08)
Ms M Ritchie: Officials are currently working to determine which projects, currently funded to August 2008, will receive funding beyond this date. This work is not yet complete and funding decisions are subject to detailed appraisal procedures.
If an employer cannot meet its redundancy commitments, the Redundancy Payments Service may provide certain compensation, within statutory limits, to employees under the Employment Rights ( Northern Ireland) Order 1996 for Redundancy Payments.
Bonfires
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development to explain why the Housing Executive in Newtownards took the decision to stop funding the Bonfire Strategy, which is done in conjunction with Ards Borough Council.
(AQW 7656/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The Housing Executive has not funded any bonfire programmes to date in 2008/09. Furthermore, the Housing Executive has not received a formal application for funding from Ards Borough Council with regard to its bonfire scheme.
Disability Living Allowance
Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development how many people were in receipt of Disability Living Allowance in (i) January; (ii) February; and (iii) March, of 2005.
(AQW 7666/08)
Ms M Ritchie: The information requested is set out in the table below.
Disability Living Allowance – Recipients
| January | February | March | |
|---|---|---|---|
2005
|
163,887 | 164,037 | 164,478 |
Assembly Commission
Assembly Staff Gender Breakdown
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Assembly Commission how many (i) females; and (ii) males, are currently employed by the Assembly, broken down by grade.
(AQW 7398/08)
The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): At 1 June 2008 there were 372 staff employed in the Assembly. Of these 110 are directly employed (Direct Recruits) by the Assembly Commission. Fifty six (56) have been directly recruited by the Commission but remain on secondment from the Northern Ireland Civil Service (Direct Recruit Secondees). The remainder are made up of staff seconded to the Assembly Commission from other organisations but not recruited through open competition (Secondees) (108) and staff recruited temporarily from a recruitment agency (Agency) (98). Included within these figures are 68 staff who are currently temporarily promoted.
The table attached details the breakdown of these staff by Assembly Grade (AG) and gender (M/F) as requested.
Assembly staff by Grade and Gender at 1 June 2008
|
Direct Recruits |
Direct Recruit Secondees |
Secondees |
Agency |
TOTALS |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grade |
M |
F |
Total |
M |
F |
Total |
M |
F |
Total |
M |
F |
Total |
M |
F |
Total |
AG1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
AG2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
AG3 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
5 |
AG4 |
4 |
1 |
5 |
12 |
7 |
19 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
18 |
8 |
26 |
AG5 |
3 |
6 |
9 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
6 |
4 |
10 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
10 |
12 |
22 |
AG6 |
7 |
17 |
24 |
8 |
4 |
12 |
8 |
8 |
16 |
6 |
12 |
18 |
29 |
41 |
70 |
AG7 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
5 |
7 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
7 |
11 |
AG8 |
15 |
14 |
29 |
3 |
9 |
12 |
14 |
23 |
37 |
9 |
1 |
10 |
41 |
47 |
88 |
AG9 |
29 |
8 |
37 |
5 |
3 |
8 |
17 |
17 |
34 |
53 |
15 |
68 |
104 |
43 |
147 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Totals |
61 |
49 |
110 |
32 |
24 |
56 |
50 |
58 |
108 |
68 |
30 |
98 |
211 |
161 |
372 |
Assembly Grade (AG) bands cover the following posts:
AG1: Clerk / Director General
AG2: Director / Examiner of Statutory Rules / Director Legal Services
AG3: Clerk Assistant / Editor of Debates / Adviser to Speaker / Legal Adviser
AG4: Assembly Clerk / Heads of Audit, Finance, Procurement, Personnel, Recruitment, Research & Library, Information Systems, Assistant Legal Advisers
AG5: Deputy Editors / Education Officers / Senior Researchers / Senior Librarians / Information Officers / Senior Systems Analysts / Deputies of Finance, Procurement, Personnel, Recruitment / Audit Manager / Deputy Principals of Estates project, Security, Buildings/facilities.
AG6: Assistant Assembly Clerk / Staff Officer / Assistant Editor / Librarian / Researcher / Auditor / Systems Analyst / Web Manager
AG7: Assistant Librarian / Programme Analyst / Principal Doorkeeper
AG8: Clerical Supervisor / Parliamentary Reporter / Senior Personal Secretary / Personal Secretary / Senior Doorkeeper
AG9: Clerical Officer / Typists / Doorkeeper