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 04 July 2008

Written Answers to Questions

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

Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister

Lagan Valley Projects

Mr Poots asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what projects specific to the Lagan Valley constituency did each Department deliver in 2007-08; and what projects specific to Lagan Valley are due to commence in 2008-09. (AQW 7945/08)

The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness): Details of those projects delivered in the Lagan Valley constituency by each Department in 2007-08 and of those projects due to commence in the constituency by each Department in 2008-09 have been compiled and are available in the Assembly Library.

Victims and Survivors Groups Core Funding Scheme

Mr Bresland asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to list (i) each group; and (ii) the amount of funding awarded to each group, under the Victims and Survivors Groups core funding scheme, for each financial year from 2003 to 2008. (AQW 8222/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

	2003-05	2005-06	2006-07	2007-08
	Total Award (2 years)	Total Award	Total Award	Total Award
Aisling Centre	50,407.00	27,038.73	27,767.69	28,792.52
Ashton Centre	52,797.00	32,322.93	33,149.25	34,478.26
Ballymurphy Womens Centre	41,239.00	22,624.90	23,254.17	26,113.30
C.A.L.M.S.	82,631.00	46,933.46	48,469.69	50,250.20
Contact Youth	55,065.00	29,702.70	30,519.86	31,607.94
Corpus Christi Services	81,238.00	47,802.56	48,947.47	51,090.62
Cunamh	99,705.00	58,986.23	60,275.06	63,205.06
Derry Well Women	50,960.00	28,654.10	29,326.79	30,642.76
DPOA	1,000.00	-		-
F.A.C.T.	69,371.00	38,218.17	39,640.49	-
F.A.I.R.	96,649.00	59,200.42	60,381.24	63,581.48
F.O.D.D.D	46,531.00	35,268.00	35,956.76	37,897.88
Firinne	78,096.00	43,540.39	44,505.80	48,011.18
H.A.V.E.N.	48,838.00	26,754.19	27,257.03	28,774.25
ICPD	41,934.00	29,365.89	29,781.90	31,760.33
Koram Centre	88,654.00	50,757.82	51,847.72	54,413.09
Lenadoon Community Counselling Pjt	51,409.00	27,194.91	27,985.86	28,883.54
Lifeline	12,500.00	6,250.00	6,250.00	6,875.00
Lifeways Psychotherapy/Counselling Ctre	63,025.00	38,747.17	39,610.48	41,496.69
M.A.S.T.	26,438.00	16,064.06	16,377.76	17,261.62
Make Your Mark	51,836.00	28,832.23	29,565.10	30,760.75
New Life Counselling Service	33,930.00	23,626.86	24,158.83	25,296.20
Nexus Institute	22,392.00	14,173.72	14,524.70	15,133.62
NI Music Therapy Trust	29,284.00	31,749.34	32,645.42	33,756.38
NOVA Project	163,794.00	94,335.02	98,902.04	102,429.93
Regimental Association of UDR	55,552.00	29,576.03	30,674.06	32,256.13
Relatives For Justice	155,758.00	92,434.34	94,601.30	100,453.70
S.A.V.E.R./N.A.V.E.R.	78,368.00	50,960.18	52,097.48	54,903.89
S.E. Fermanagh Foundation	81,000.00	47,476.99	48,897.55	51,526.83
Shankill Stress and Trauma Group	115,154.00	65,527.44	69,792.19	69,792.19
South Down Action for Healing Wounds	77,900.00	43,899.60	44,858.11	47,040.28
Springhill Community House	61,576.00	32,181.32	33,146.76	34,141.16
Streetbeat Youth Project	58,040.00	34,212.52	35,074.14	36,510.80
Survivors of Trauma	86,714.00	38,353.23	50,022.42	52,537.74
Tara Centre	84,137.00	59,390.89	60,709.18	63,611.82
The Cross Group	8,345.00	4,975.00	4,975.00	5,472.50
The ELY Centre	82,647.00	52,347.26	54,055.92	56,889.30
The Wider Circle	51,054.00	29,735.01	30,467.16	31,754.27
United Services Club Victims Survivors Gp	45,951.00	25,037.70	26,184.83	27,199.97
VAST	79,778.00	43,989.22	44,862.89	47,249.47
WAVE	402,463.00	222,261.37	277,144.61	289,534.68
West Tyrone Voice	104,505.00	63,445.91	64,841.19	67,971.96
Omagh	35,270.00	42,155.52	43,107.29	46,230.61
HURT	40,237.00	52,832.11	53,723.17	56,953.97
Ex-Servicemen	40,820.00	47,276.79	48,303.90	50,665.82
RUC Families	5,000.00	5,000.00	5,000.00	-
Columba	33,350.00	36,185.86	37,148.97	38,549.18

Victims and Survivors Groups Development Grants Scheme

Mr Bresland asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to list (i) each group; and (ii) the amount of funding awarded to each group, under the Victims and Survivors Groups development grants scheme, for each financial year from 2003 to 2008. (AQW 8223/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The information requested is detailed below: -

	2003/4	2004/5	2005/6	2006/7	2007/08
A Peace Cantata			4,430
Armagh Voluntary Welfare Vol Group	6,830	670	6,100	5,970	9,380
Ashton Community Trust		30,166	22,719	31,345	27,380
Aisling Centre		9,426		1,235
Ardoyne Commemorative Project		2,550
Augnacloy Comrades Support Group					1,365
Ballymurphy Women’s Centre	14,280	27,030	14,990	29,109	8,250
Banbridge Ulster Special Constables Association			680
Bannside Community Group	5,000	2,844		4,150
Barnardos Parenting in a Divided Society	3,500	5,000	5,000
Belfast Cognitive Therapy Centre	2,400	740
Breaking the Silence	4,500
CALMS	8,883	22,360	24,243	68,505	36,472
Care in Crisis				1,964
Centre for Creative Energy	260	3,920	3,405	2,935
Cheshire Regiment Association		2,199	290		1,430
Claudy Memorial Group	2,500	6,043			6,686
Cliftonville Community Regeneration Forum				2,590
Coiste Na N-Iarchimi				2,404	1,969
Colin Community Counselling Project			2,400	1,126
Columba Community		8,043	500	1,146
Comrade Support		2,272	2,340	2,420	9,930
Conflict Trauma Resource Centre	9,839	382		2,500
Corpus Christi Services	2,560	3,053	340	8,072	4,260
Cruse	8,227			3,400
Contact Youth	14,470	13,040	10,700	1,409
Crossfire Trust		32,958	9,670	7,439
Cunamh	17,990	8,850	14,980	14,149	3,090
Dairy Farm Job Club					600
Derry Well Woman	13,342	6,460	13,116	31,585	24,497
Disabled Police Officers Association		3,069	7,585	2,200
Dungannon Ulster Special Constabulary			1,059
East Belfast Mission		3,450	1,560
EHSSB TAP	14,500
Ex-Service Mental Welfare			2,500
FACT	1,270	480	3,234
F.O.D.D.D.		980		3,060	2,886
FAIR	48,844	9,145	13,035	59,593	62,277
Falls Community Centre	4,900
Fermanagh Voluntary Welfare Support Group			2,775	7,138	12,069
Firinne	5,860		614	987
HAVEN	6,653	12,482	5,140	9,160	2,770
Healing Through Remembering
Holy Trinity Centre	3,360	13,265	6,900	3,000	2,673
HURT	11,600	3,424	6,600	16,545
Innocent Victims of the Conflict		2,100
ICPD	2,641	4,750	11,160	1,365	6,949
Irish Peace Institiute		5,000	4,100
Ladies Friendship Group				4,075	2,385
Lansew Association					1,470
Lenadoon Counselling Project	8,360		13,600
Limavady Welfare Support Group					4,960
Lisburn Community Relationship Network			1,200
Lurgan Welfare Support Group				4,217	4,180
Loughbrickland USCA			600
Lifeways Psychotherapy Centre	240		3,225		4,700
Lisburn YMCA			1,200
MAST	14,200	12,967	28,184	18,038	17,568
Newry and Mourne Vol Welfare Group	4,000	1,910	6,231	5,611
Newforge Brunch Club		3,960	4,540	464
New Life Counselling Service	3,475		6,600	22,287
Newtownards & District Ulster Special Constabulary Association			898
Nexus Institute				350	1,000
NIACRO	4,000
North Ulster Victims Support Network			2,500	10,512
Northern Ireland Terrorist Victims Together	2,500			3,050
Northen Ireland Music Therapy Trust				1,291
NOVA	4,686	630		1,340	8,166
Omagh Support & Self Help Group	8,467	19,902	14,061	16,848	21,742
Phoenix					15,760
RAFT	15,077	17,842	27,465	6,576
REACT		5,554
Regimental Association of the UDR	4,071	4,850	2,261	2,661	19,368
Relatives for Justice	14,652	21,399		11,196	11,864
Royal Artillery Association	410	800	2,861	1,603
Royal British Legion					3,342
Rural Victim Survivor Network	4,930
RUC GC Association	2,500	2,125	3,950	25,649	22,834
SAVER/NAVER	26,954	27,015	24,825	42,820	36,527
Shankill Stress & Trauma Group	5,000	13,973	2,840	12,785	2,880
Sligo Presbyterian Church	7,500
SOLAS	1,780	4,725	8,056	2,066
St Vincent de Paul	3,135
South Derry Ex-Prisoners Association				2,500
South Down Action for Healing Wounds	17,784	14,112	14,384	22,239	25,202
South East Fermanagh Foundation	22,549	15,256	27,526	51,968	34,001
South Tyrone Voluntary Welfare Group			5,350	6,535	3,050
South West Community Vicitms Initiative	10,000
Springhill Community House			6,892	15,560	12,258
Streetbeat	8,668	5,188	3,364	8,101
Stewartstown & District Supp Grp		925		300	4,920
Survivors of Trauma	3,465	1,583	5,314	7,003
Tar Anall	1,800		2,000		11,350
Tar Anall/Epic					4,470
Tara Counselling & Personal Development Centre	4,536	5,000	11,070	4,172	9,125
TEAR		1,476	6,680	4,634	2,020
The Cross Group				1,022
The Ely Centre		46,079	23,617	22,560	24,054
The Little Paris Club					7,620
The Koram Center	18,727	11,633		21,236	4,475
The Pat Finucane Centre	9,882		3,255		1,353
The Phoenix Group				35,447	22,261
The Strule Association					3,496
Top of the Rock		2,420	3,265
Trauma Advisory Panel	3,750
Trauma Recovery Group			1,000	235
TWN	4,900
Tides Training					804
Tullycarnet Victims Support Group				5,400
UDR Association	4,071		4,240	14,427	6,010
UDR Wives					3,000
Ulster Special Constabulary Association			9,063	8,627	42,898
United Services Club			0	29,640	700
Voice		19,652	4,298
VAST	17,478	10,563	8,440	11,895	9,472
WAVE	83,838	22,600	111,826	72,097	49,601
West Tyrone Voice	12,043	7,523	5,840	1,240	12,884
Wider Circle	7,530	5,471	6,335	13,036	9,829
Widows Mite				4,390

 

Inter-Agency Protocol on Flags

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what plans there are to review the inter-agency protocol on flags. (AQW 8234/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: A review of the inter-agency protocol on flags is currently underway.

Projects in East Derry/Londonderry

Mr McClarty asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what projects specific to the East Derry/Londonderry constituency (i) it delivered in 2007-2008; and (ii) will commence in 2008-2009. (AQW 8290/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister has identified the following projects specific to the East Derry/Londonderry constituency:

Delivered in 2007-08

None

Due to commence 2008-09

Provision of funding to Kilcranney House

Sustainable Development Strategy

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) what progress has been made in the rewriting of the Sustainable Development strategy; (ii) what is the timescale for rewriting this; and (iii) what engagement there has been with stakeholders. (AQW 8349/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

(i) Work is ongoing by officials on the first draft of the Sustainable Development Strategy and good progress is being made.

(ii) The first draft of the Sustainable Development Strategy is scheduled to be with us before the summer recess.

(iii) Officials are working with colleagues from other Departments in drafting the Strategy and have also been in discussion with the Sustainable Development Commission. We intend to consult with all interested stakeholders, including the Committee for the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, as part of the development of the final document.

Sustainable Development Stakeholder Group Meetings

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) how many Departments have a Sustainable Development champion; (ii) how many times these champions have met; (iii) what agenda items have been covered in these meetings; and (iv) how many hours and what proportion of their working week is spent on Sustainable Development activity. (AQW 8350/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

(i) All departments have appointed a sustainable development Champion.

(ii) Champions have met formally through Sustainable Development Stakeholder Group meetings, of which there were four in 2007. No meetings have been convened during 2008. Informally, Champions have participated in a number of informal and ad hoc meetings/events, including the Senior Civil Service Masterclass in Sustainable Development earlier this year and have also chaired or participated in departmental meetings and discussions relating to sustainable development. It is not possible to quantify these precisely.

(iii) Agenda items for Sustainable Development Stakeholder Group meetings included: Meeting 1 – General update on progress; Statutory Duty guidance; Sustainable Development Indicators. Meeting 2 – Statutory Duty update; Communications Strategy; Sustainable Development Indicators; Sustainable Development Forum. Meeting 3 – General update on progress; Communications Strategy; Implementation Plan 2; Sustainable Procurement Action Plan; NIHE Sustainable Development Management System presentation. Meeting 4 – Draft Programme for Government, Budget and ISNI; Overview of departmental progress against Implementation Plan 1; Implementation Plan 2 stakeholder questionnaire outcomes; Communications and Training update.

(iv) It is not possible to provide a definitive answer in terms of ‘hours spent on sustainable development activity’. Sustainability as a theme is integral to the policies and functions of Departments and, as such, the extent to which Champions engage in work which directly or indirectly leads to, or contributes to, sustainable development will vary considerably over a given period of time.

Sustainable Development Commission

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what progress has been made in relation to agreeing the memorandum of understanding between the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister and the Sustainable Development Commission, and what are the reasons for the current delay in agreeing this memorandum of understanding. (AQW 8351/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: We are in the process of considering a draft Memorandum of Understanding between our Department and the Sustainable Development Commission (SDC). In doing so, we are looking at this in relation to the proposed status change of the SDC from an Advisory to an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body, and any implications that this change may have in terms of governance, legal or financial issues.

Draft Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister when it intends to bring forward for consultation the draft Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration; and to outline the reasons for the delay to date. (AQW 8396/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: 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 was signalled in the Programme for Government. The specific objective (PSA 7.5) commits us to implement the programme during this current year 08/09.

OFMDFM officials briefed the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister on the position regarding development of the proposed Programme in early April. The consultation document will be put to the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister shortly.

The new programme will tackle the complex and longstanding issue of sectarianism as well as the more recent issue of racism which is affecting both the established communities as well as new arrivals. It will build on 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. As this policy is pivotal to achieving ‘a peaceful, fair and prosperous society in Northern Ireland with respect for the rule of law’ we are ensuring that the Programme proposals will contribute to this aim.

We have repeatedly stated our commitment to working towards building a society at ease with itself, where everyone who lives here is regarded as of equal status and is treated as such – the new programme will work towards this.

Departmental Budgets and Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what assessment it has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty on its departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what actions it has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8398/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: OFMDFM has made an assessment of the impact of the increase in fuel costs and fuel duty on its departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets. This assessment indicated that the increase in fuel costs and fuel duty would have minimal impact on OFMDFM’s departmental budget, as OFMDFM’s annual fuel costs represent less than 0.05% of total spend. In light of this, we have concluded that the increase in fuel costs and fuel duty, while significant in principle, will have no impact on the realisation of OFMDFM’s efficiency targets.

Child Poverty

Ms Anderson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what steps it is taking to develop a specific plan of action to deal with the issue of rising costs for people on low income, as recommended by the Child Poverty Inquiry. (AQW 8410/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: We fully recognise that rising costs are a particular concern for those on low incomes and in that respect we fully appreciate the concerns raised by the OFMDFM Committee in the context of its Inquiry into Child Poverty. Many of the issues and recommendations are inter-related and will therefore require co-ordinated action across all Departments to address.

We will be making a formal response to the OFMDFM Committee’s Child Poverty Inquiry Report in due course and this will require detailed consideration of each of the 47 recommendations in consultation with other departments.

It is therefore not possible, at this point in time, to comment on the specifics of individual recommendations contained within the report of the Inquiry.

Departmental Carbon Footprint

Mr McKay asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to the answer to AQO 3687/08, when it will calculate its carbon footprint. (AQW 8469/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The OFMDFM Sustainable Development Action Plan contains a commitment to "calculate OFMDFM’s carbon footprint and then more accurately assess the need for additional action".

It is planned to begin work on calculating the carbon footprint of the Department in the autumn of this year. This work, however, will be dependent upon agreement of a methodology which is capable of being applied uniformly across the NICS and further work by our officials, in liaising with the Department of Finance and Personnel, who are the lead department in this area, will be required. Work is ongoing on this issue.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 8470/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five complete financial years is provided in the table below. For completeness, information is also provided for the current financial year, from 1 April 2008 to 23 June 2008.

03/04	04/05	05/06	06/07	07/08	08/09 (to date)
£12,118	£17,404	£30,974	£24,584	£30,184	£6,011

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many away days and team-building exercises have been organised by the Department for departmental staff in each of the last five years. (AQW 8472/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The number of away days and team building exercises organised by the Department for departmental staff in each of the last five complete financial years is provided in the table below. For completeness, information is also provided for the current financial year, from 1 April 2008 to 23 June 2008.

03/04	04/05	05/06	06/07	07/08	08/09 (to date)
11	24	20	11	17	3

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years. (AQW 8473/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The number of staff hours taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team building exercises in each of the last five complete financial years is provided in the table below. For completeness, information is also provided for the current financial year, from 1 April 2008 to 23 June 2008.

03/04	04/05	05/06	06/07	07/08	08/09 (to date)
628	1623	3047	1977	2223	265

 

Community Relations Council

Mr Moutray asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the effectiveness of the Community Relations Council in promoting better understanding of the different communities. (AQW 8481/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Officials in our Department’s Community Relations Unit maintain ongoing contacts with the Community Relations Council (CRC) both at a strategic and operational level by attendance at CRC Board Meetings, Finance Meetings, Audit Committee meetings and as observers at EU and Core Funding Committee meetings.

By closely monitoring the business of the CRC through these arrangements we ensure that both the strategic direction and also delivery of their operational programmes are compliant with the terms and conditions of their annual contract (Letter of Offer) and with the objectives of the Department’s good relations policy.

The work of the Community Relations Council plays a significant part of the delivery of this cross-cutting policy, the effectiveness of which is monitored by the comprehensive set of Good Relations Indicators which were published in January 2007.

Maze/Long Kesh Site

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline all its expenditure on the redevelopment of the Maze/Long Kesh site. (AQW 8527/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Expenditure from 2003 to date on the potential Maze/Long Kesh (MLK) regeneration totals £8million.

Of this total, £4.6 million (over 57%) has been spent on site preparation and management which is required irrespective of any specific development on the site.

The expenditure specified does not include costs incurred by the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) or by the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure (DCAL) in relation to the site. OFMDFM staff costs are not included.

A detailed breakdown of OFMDFM expenditure to date on the site is as follows.

Maze/Long Kesh Expenditure to date (25 June 2008)

	Description	Cost millions
Site Preparation and Management Costs Costs incurred for remediation and removal of contamination, demolition works and maintenance of MLK land and buildings.	Site Management, security and utilities	0.5
	Listed building maintenance and repair	0.3
	Demolition and remediation	2.7
	DFP Central Procurement Directorate advisory fees on works and contracts	0.7
	Initial site feasibility study	0.4
Total (Million)		£4.6

 

	Description	Cost millions
MLK PROGRAMME COSTS Costs specific to MLK Masterplan and development of proposals.	Consultation Panel/Monitoring Group	0.1
	DFP Central Procurement Directorate advisory fees; Programme management	0.3
	Preparation of business case	0.5
	Infrastructure design and pre-planning approval & related work	1.9
	Masterplan development	0.6
Total (Million)		£3.4
Overall Total		£8.0 million

 

Relocation of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society

Mr Armstrong asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what assessment has been made of the Maze site as a new home for the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society; and what discussions have taken place with interested parties in relation to this subject. (AQW 8541/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Officials in OFMDFM have been in discussion with the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) for some time and have worked with them to develop their potential interest in the Maze/Long Kesh development.

The RUAS proposals are consistent with the Masterplan.

Bidders for the development of the site are aware of the RUAS proposals and have incorporated the Society’s requirements in their plans.

Local Postal Services

Mr Dallat asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what consideration it has given and progress made to utilise the Post Office as a source, agency or outlet for the delivery of its services as outlined in the ‘Report of the Committee’s Consideration of, and Proposals for, Partnership that could Enhance the Economic Case for Viable Local Postal Services’. (AQW 8679/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Ad Hoc Committee on Local Postal Services’ Report made a number of recommendations to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) concerning the future of Postal Services and the Post Office network.

Junior Minister Donaldson and Junior Minister Kelly wrote to Executive Ministers on 21 April asking them to consider whether any further public services could be delivered through post offices. We understand that you have tabled a similar question to all Departments. They will respond to you individually.

Within the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister we have been unable to identify any services that could be delivered through Post Offices.

We will continue to look at opportunities as they arise to consider whether any new public service could be delivered through the Post Office although these would be subject to the appropriate NI procurement policy.

Community Empowerment Network

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister why it will not support the maintenance of the two communications posts in North Belfast despite unanimous support from the Community Empowerment Network that they remain. (AQW 8758/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Operational responsibility for the North Belfast Community Action Unit which administers the funding for the Community Empowerment Network transferred to the Department for Social Development in September 2005. As this question has also been tabled to the Minister for Social Development and is considered to be an operational issue, it will be for the Minister for Social Development to reply.

Agriculture and Rural Development

Post Offices

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, in light of the recent announcement that there are to be a number of post offices closed in rural areas, what measures she has introduced, or plans to introduce, to ensure that further services in rural areas are not lost. (AQW 8146/08)

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): Access to services in rural areas involves many Government Departments and is therefore not just the responsibility of my Department. The development of a Rural White Paper is an opportunity to develop a clear integrated government approach to rural issues, to demonstrate a commitment to and appreciation of the rural community and its contribution, and to construct a shared vision of the shape of future rural communities. It is also my intention to bring rural needs to the forefront of government policy making through the development of the Rural Champion concept and by enhancing the Rural Proofing process. I am hopeful that these will be key instruments in promoting adequate service provision in rural communities.

Departmental Electrical Equipment

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many Blackberrys have been purchased by his Department since devolution. (AQW 8170/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Since 8th May 2007, records show that a total of 34 Blackberry devices have been purchased by my Department.

Pomeroy Forest

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (i) if she is aware of the illegal construction of a road way into Pomeroy Forest to facilitate the building of the new units at Pomeroy; and (ii) what action she will take to protect the Forest Service property, including mature trees. (AQW 8225/08)

Ms M Gildernew: I am aware that construction works, including an access roadway, are ongoing at Pomeroy Forest on a site which was recently sold to Pomeroy Development Projects for business units. The responsibility for works on this land and compliance with all planning requirements, including the access and trees growing on the site, lies with the developer. My Department will ensure that the terms of the sale regarding the site are met.

Expert Group for Alternative Uses of Manure

Mr O’Loan asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the view of the Expert Group chaired by her Department that an energy-from-waste technology is the preferred solution to deal with the waste from chicken farms and plants. (AQW 8285/08)

Ms M Gildernew: I note that the Expert Group for Alternative Uses of Manure (EGAUM) endorsed the technical approach of a single poultry litter fired generator. The EGAUM report on alternatives to landspreading was endorsed in 2006 by the then Minister Jeff Rooker. However, with economic drivers changing, I believe that other options now need to be fully explored. My Department is working with stakeholders to address the poultry sector’s compliance with the Nitrates Directive.

2006 Forestry Strategy

Mr Ford asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 6064/08, how aligning Target 10 of the Sustainable Development Strategy with the goal in the Programme for Government will achieve the doubling of woodland cover over the next 50 years in line with the commitment in the 2006 Forestry Strategy, ‘Northern Ireland Forestry - A Strategy for Sustainability and Growth’. (AQW 8319/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The NI Executive Programme for Government 2008-2011, Public Service Agreement 4, identifies a target of converting an additional 1,650 hectares of agricultural land and non-agricultural land to woodland by March 2011 and represents a modest increase in tree planting targets compared with previous Sustainable Development Implementation Plan, Target 10, you refer to, which identified a target of creating at least 500 hectares of new woodland per year.

The Forest Strategy stated a long term aim of doubling the area of woodland over the next 50 years and commented that the current rates of woodland creation are not sufficient to meet this aim. However, the Strategy acknowledged the strong commitment that farmers had to continuing farming, which meant that forests would only expand slowly at first. It added that as the impact of Common Agricultural Policy reform grew and the advantages of growing trees become more apparent, the demand for woodland creation schemes would increase.

My Department will continue to promote the woodland grant schemes through increasing landowners awareness and understanding of the schemes and the benefits which woodlands have to offer.

Woodland Loss

Mr Ford asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how she intends to measure woodland loss to provide an accurate assessment of the success of afforestation schemes. (AQW 8321/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Programme for Government 2008-2011, Public Service Agreement (PSA) target for afforestation is stated as "the conversion of an additional 1,650 ha of agricultural land and non-agricultural land to forest and woodland to be achieved by March 2011".

Loss of woodland will not be assessed as part of this measure because Forest Service has no practical means of measuring all deforestation projects. However, my Department will continue to regulate deforestation projects which falls into the category of a "relevant project" under the Environmental Impact Assessment (Forestry) Regulations (NI) 2006.

I will also seek Executive agreement for authority to draft new legislation to support my Department’s forestry strategy and it is proposed to regulate the felling of trees in woods of not less that 0.2 hectares. This will be by licence and subject to the owner having a management plan which will cover, among other things, the timing of felling and the proposed regeneration of the woodland. The aim is to give greater protection to areas of forest and woodland.

Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what assessment she has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action she has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8449/08)

Ms M Gildernew: No detailed assessment has yet been carried out in respect of the increase of fuel costs on the DARD budget. Arrangements have, however, been put in place to enable all expenditure pressures identified by budget holders to be brought to the attention of the Departmental Board on a monthly basis. The increase in fuel costs, including the impact of fuel duty, will be identified within the General Administration Expenditure (GAE) budgets allocated within the Department. In the immediate term, budget holders are being requested to manage these pressures within the totality of the GAE budgets. As far as the Department’s efficiency savings are concerned, none are directly impacted by the increase in fuel costs.

Constituency Visits

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many visits she made to North Down constituency in her first year of office. (AQW 8459/08)

Ms M Gildernew: During my first year in office I did not make any visits to the North Down constituency.

Donard Bridge in Newcastle, County Down

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether the Forestry Service or the Rivers Agency has the responsibility to remove an obstruction at Donard Bridge, Newcastle, County Down. (AQW 8524/08)

Ms M Gildernew: In this particular case, Forest Service has responsibility to remove this obstruction. This work will be carried out shortly.

Tree Population in North Down

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development in which areas of North Down her Department is planning to increase the tree population. (AQW 8549/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department’s Forest Service will continue to encourage an increase in tree cover primarily through the forestry grant schemes which are funded under the NI Rural Development Programme 2007-2013. The schemes are available to landowners, including those in North Down, and encourage both conventional broadleaf and conifer woodland as well as short rotation coppice for an energy end use. Additional support is available to those wishing to create new wood close to urban areas and who provide public access for informal recreation.

New woodland creation will enhance and conserve the rural environment as well as produce future wood supplies. However, planting will only take place on suitable sites and will have regard for the environmental value of the site in terms of existing habitats, landscape value, archaeological and historic features. To assist landowners to find forestry solutions consistent with sustainable land management, the Forest Service has published on its web site (www.forestserviceni.gov.uk) indicative maps showing where new woodland is to be encouraged.

UK Marine Bill

Mr Boylan asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what action it is taking to develop rationalised and integrated marine legislation through the Assembly to deliver the overarching policies of the UK Marine Bill and to involve the fisheries sector in the development of marine plans. (AQW 8573/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Minister of the Environment is responsible for the Marine Bill and it is proposed that several areas within it will be delivered here through an Assembly Bill.

An inter-departmental steering group, that includes DARD, has been established to develop the policy and legislative framework for the draft Assembly Bill. I will ensure that fishing stakeholders are consulted during the development of this Bill.

I am responsible for fisheries matters and am currently reviewing the need to legislate locally for the fisheries measures contained in the Marine Bill, as well the need for additional local fisheries powers, and may if necessary bring forward proposals for an Assembly (Fisheries) Bill later this year.

Agricultural Land

Mr Gardiner asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (i) what is the total acreage of agricultural land set aside from production under EU regulations; (ii) what this represents as a percentage of total available agricultural land; and (iii) how much of this set-aside land is classified as arable. (AQW 8581/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Currently there are 1,744 set-aside entitlements in the North of Ireland under the Single Farm Payment (SFP) scheme. Consequently 1,744 hectares must be set aside from production if all these entitlements are to be claimed. However, due to cereal market conditions, the EU has allowed set-aside entitlements to be claimed on land used for agricultural production in 2008. In effect, this means there is no compulsory set-aside requirement this year, although producers may voluntarily set land aside.

Prior to 2008, the compulsory set-aside requirement represented 0.2% of total agriculture land in the North of Ireland.

All land managed as set-aside is classified as arable use under EU regulations.

Departmental Funding

Mr Gardiner asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what is the total number of rural businesses sponsored or funded by her Department, and how many of these have been established in each of the past five years. (AQW 8583/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department has sponsored or funded 1,453 rural businesses covering the period from 2000 to the present date. Of these rural businesses, 308 have been established in the last five years. For the purposes of answering this AQ, farm businesses receiving Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) payments and other subsidies have been excluded. The information relating to how many businesses have been established in each of the last five years is not readily available and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.

Government Measures Subject to Rural Proofing

Mr Gardiner asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to list all the government measures, both Bills and Orders, which have been subject to rural proofing over the past five years. (AQW 8584/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The first Programme for Government outlined the Executive’s commitment to rural proofing to "ensure that the rural dimension is routinely considered as part of the making and implementation of policy". Part of this commitment included the compilation of an Annual Report on Rural Proofing by the Rural Proofing Steering Group. This report details the number and nature of policies subject to Rural Proofing and the Annual Reports for 2003/4, 2004/5 and 2005/6 are available at: http://www.dardni.gov.uk/index/strategies-reports-accounts/rural-proofing.htm.

Over the past year my Department has been reviewing the rural proofing process, including how we will report on rural proofing activity in the future. I will soon be launching a public consultation process on my proposals for reinvigorating the rural proofing process.

Farmers Markets

Mr Gardiner asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many farmers markets are currently operating and what measures and investment her Department has made to encourage such markets. (AQW 8585/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department has no oversight or regulatory role with regard to Farmers’ Markets and so holds no statistics on their number or location. The regulation of farmers’ markets is primarily the responsibility of local government. I am therefore unable to provide the breakdown sought.

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has provided financial support to a number of farmers’ markets under the Leader + and Peace II funding programmes, most notably in Derry, Ballymoney and Strabane.

Opportunities for future support for farmers’ markets may exist under the Rural Development Programme 2007 – 2013, although this is dependent upon the priorities set within the local development strategies carrying forward from the Local Action Groups and Council clusters.

Rural White Paper

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she intends to bring forward legislation to ensure the findings of the Rural White Paper are implemented. (AQW 8592/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The development of a Rural White Paper gives government departments the opportunity to ensure that there is a joined up approach to government policy in rural areas. It will allow government to demonstrate its commitment to rural communities, and provide for the recognition of the contribution that rural communities make to society. It will also provide an opportunity for issues which most concern rural communities to be identified and incorporated into rural policy making. The issue of legislating for the various of elements of a Rural White Paper will be considered as part of the development process.

Nitrates Directive

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what assessment she has made of the impact on livestock owners who are refused planning permission to build a collection tank in order to comply with the Nitrates Directive. (AQW 8682/08)

Ms M Gildernew: I am not aware of cases where livestock owners have been refused planning permission to build a slurry tank to comply with the Nitrates Directive. Therefore no assessment has been made of the impact, which will depend on the specific circumstances of each case.

My Department has worked with Planning Service to temporarily extend planning permitted development rights for slurry storage facilities until 31 December 2008. This has removed the need for planning permission for the vast majority of slurry tanks being built to comply with the Nitrates Directive.

However, planning permission for slurry tanks is still required in certain specific circumstances.

Culture, Arts and Leisure

Departmental Staff with Disabilities

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many people with disabilities are currently employed by his Department. (AQW 7244/08)

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr G Campbell): My Department currently employs 8 people who have declared a disability.

Waterways Ireland Staff

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what pay discrepancies exist between Northern Ireland staff and Republic of Ireland staff currently working in Waterways Ireland, and for his assessment of the effect this has had on (i) recruitment; (ii) retention; and (iii) motivation, of personnel from Northern Ireland. (AQW 8133/08)

Mr G Campbell: I am informed that, across the range of professional, technical and administrative staff, the average difference, at present, between maxima of the salary scales paid to Waterways Ireland Staff in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is of the order of 50%. Salary comparisons are, however, not easy to derive. There is a need to adjust for exchange rate movements, differences in purchasing power and relative labour market conditions.

Waterways Ireland has advised me that it is difficult to say what effect this has had on recruitment. Since 1st January 2007 Waterways Ireland has run seven competitions for staff based in Northern Ireland and had application numbers ranging from 8 to 35.

In relation to retention, 4 staff have resigned from permanent posts since 1st January 2007.

In regards to motivation, I am informed that no specific surveys have been carried out in relation to this issue but that the matter of pay differentials between jurisdictions is a recurring theme in discussions between staff and management in Waterways Ireland.

Promotion of 12 July Celebrations

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much funding was provided for the promotion of (i) the annual Orange Order 12 July celebrations; (ii) the Independent Orange Order 12 July celebrations; (iii) the annual Sham Fight of Scarva; (iv) the Maiden City Festival; and (v) the annual Royal Black Institution Black Saturday celebration, in each of the last three years. (AQW 8276/08)

Mr G Campbell: Funding allocations are listed in the following tables.

a) Annual Orange Order 12 July celebrations

2006/2007

Festival	Source	Amount
Boyne and Beyond (Gilford District LOL)	Community Festivals Fund	3,000
Centennial Celebrations of Bangor District LOL No 18	Community Festivals Fund	5,000
Coleraine Festival (Coleraine District LOL)	Community Festivals Fund	5,000
Lurgan District Community Festival 2006 (Lurgan District LOL)	Community Festivals Fund	3,000
Orangefest 2006 (Magheragall District LOL)	Community Festivals Fund	2,000
Richhill, Hamiltonsbawn and District July Festival 2006	Community Festivals Fund	3,000
Tyrone Orangefest 2006 (Tyrone Orange Vision 2000)	Community Festivals Fund	5,000
Orangefest	Arts Council - Art Of Regeneration Fund (through BCC)	6,333
Orangefest	Ulster Scots Agency	4,400
Annual Orange Order Celebrations	DSD	7,999
Total		44,732

 

2007/2008

Festival	Source	Amount
Carrickfergus Pageant (Carrickfergus Distrist LOL 19)	Community Festivals Fund	3,900
Moneymore Orangefest (Moneymore Cultural Development Association)	Community Festivals Fund	4,500
12th July Festival (Bann Valley District LOL 20)	Community Festivals Fund	5,000
Orangefest	Arts Council - Art Of Regeneration Fund (through BCC)	18,650
Orangefest	Ulster Scots Agency	8,295.72
Annual Orange Order Celebrations	DSD	35,996
Total		76,341.72

 

b) Independent Orange Order –
no funding allocated

c) Annual Sham Fight of Scarva –
no funding allocated

d) Maiden City Festival

2005/2006

Festival	Source	Amount
Maiden City	DCAL (through linguistics)	50,000
Maiden City	Ulster Scots Agency	30,000
Maiden City	DSD	34,150
Total		114,150

 

e) Royal Black Institution Black Saturday celebration – no funding allocated

NB. Figures given are the amount approved – actual amount claimed/paid may differ.

New Library in Newtownards

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure the estimated costs for the construction of a new library in Newtownards and when construction will commence. (AQW 8372/08)

Mr G Campbell: The South Eastern Education and Library Board is currently revising an Economic Appraisal for improved library facilities in Newtownards.

My Department is committed to the principle of a replacement library for Newtownards, and was successful in securing funding under ISNI2. However, several matters remain outstanding before approval can be granted. My Department has asked the South Eastern Education and Library Board to expedite this process.

After the completion of the Economic Appraisal it will take a minimum of 12 to15 months for detailed designs to be developed and planning permission to be secured before construction can commence on site. The likely cost of the project will not be known until the Economic Appraisal is finalised.

Irish and Ulster-Scots Funding

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, in light of the recent award of £6 million by the UK Government for Irish broadcasting, if he will direct a greater percentage of his Department’s budget identified for language issues towards reversing the disparity between Irish and Ulster-Scots funding. (AQW 8401/08)

Mr G Campbell: Following the St. Andrews agreement the Ulster-Scots Agency secured additional funding over the next three years. An Interdepartmental Group is currently developing an Indigenous Minority Languages Strategy to cover both Irish and Ulster-Scots. In light of this strategy and the recently announced £6 million for the Irish Language Broadcast Fund, I will consider what steps should be taken to ensure appropriate development for each language and address the current disparity of funding.

Public Record Office of Northern Ireland

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what consideration he has given to integrating the Ulster Historical Foundation within the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland. (AQW 8440/08)

Mr G Campbell: The Public Record Office of Northern Ireland is willing to work in partnership with others where there is an opportunity to help deliver improved services. As a Division of a government Department, PRONI cannot be seen to give one organisation any potential advantage over another. Any proposals for co-operation with fee-charging organisations are on the basis of open competition and applications from such organisations are judged on merit in regard to benefits liable to accrue to PRONI and on a value for money basis.

National Shooting Week

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what assistance his Department gave to National Shooting Week in May 2008. (AQW 8442/08)

Mr G Campbell: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport including the distribution of funding. SNI did not receive any request for assistance in relation to National Shooting Week in May 2008.

Departmental Response to Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what assessment he has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty, on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action he has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8450/08)

Mr G Campbell: As this is only a small element of the Department’s running costs there has been no assessment made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty, on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets. There has been no action taken to mitigate against these increased costs.

Redevelopment of the Maze/Long Kesh Site

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline all his Department’s expenditure on the redevelopment of the Maze/Long Kesh site. (AQW 8529/08)

Mr G Campbell: I refer the Member to the answer I gave to AQW 8235/08.

Multi-Sports Stadium for Northern Ireland

Mr Armstrong asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what assessment has been made of the suitability of the site of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society at Balmoral as a potential site for a National Stadium; and what discussions have taken place with interested parties in relation to this subject. (AQW 8540/08)

Mr G Campbell: In assessing the viability of a Multi-Sports Stadium for Northern Ireland, an initial site selection exercise was conducted in September 2004 which considered a range of 12 possible sites for a stadium, including 6 in Belfast, from which three were shortlisted (the Maze/Long Kesh near Lisburn, the North Foreshore in Belfast and the Titanic Quarter in Belfast). This initial list did not include the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society grounds at Balmoral.

Ulster Historical Foundation

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what funding has been allocated to the Ulster Historical Foundation in each of the last 5 years. (AQW 8566/08)

Mr G Campbell: The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure has provided financial support to the Ulster Historical Foundation for the publishing of historical books that would not readily find a commercial publisher. The funding provided was £33,000 in 2003/2004; £62,000 in 2004/2005; £38,000 in 2005/2006 and £38,000 in 2006/2007. Funding ceased in April 2007.

In addition to this, funding of £7,114 in 2006/2007 and £12,923 in 2007/2008 was provided for the Local and Family History Workshops project.

Northern Ireland Events Company

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure pursuant to AQW 2411/8, whether the Northern Ireland Events Company was contracted into events after 20 September 2007, and if so who authorised such action and for what reason. (AQW 8647/08)

Mr G Campbell: After 20 September 2007 the Northern Ireland Events Company signed a contract for one event. This contract was to provide grant funding for the Tennis Legends event to be held in February 2008. Senior officials of the Department authorised the Company to proceed with the contract as negotiations with the event organisers had been at a very advanced stage and a letter of offer had already been issued in June 2007.

Northern Ireland Events Company

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure pursuant to AQW 2411/8, if any financial penalties were incurred by his Department or the Northern Ireland Events Company due to the cancellation of events; and to outline the events in question and the penalties incurred. (AQW 8648/08)

Mr G Campbell: To date neither the Department nor the Northern Ireland Events Company has incurred financial penalties for any cancelled events.

Northern Ireland Events Company

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure pursuant to AQW2947/08, AQW2948/08 and AQW2949/08, for his assessment of the findings of the review. (AQW 8650/08)

Mr G Campbell: KPMG were commissioned by the Department to carry out a comprehensive review of all the circumstances surrounding the deficit accumulated by the Company. This report contains matters of a sensitive legal and financial nature. I am unable to comment further on this matter in order to avoid prejudicing further investigations.

Sports Stadiums Health and Safety Assessments

Lord Browne asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if all Senior Soccer, Rugby and Gaelic Clubs carry out regular Stadium health and safety risk assessments and who is responsible for the monitoring of such risk assessments. (AQW 8688/08)

Mr G Campbell: Responsibility for carrying out regular stadium health and safety risk assessments at senior soccer, rugby and gaelic clubs rests with the owners and operators of such venues. Responsibility for monitoring these rests with both the owners and operators and the relevant district council.

Departmental Invitations to Events

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (i) how many invitations he has received to attend (a) Ulster Scots events; and (b) Irish language events; and (ii) how many (a) Ulster Scots events; and (b) Irish language events, he has attended. (AQW 8712/08)

Mr G Campbell: Since 10 June 2008 I have received 3 invitations to attend Ulster Scots events, one of which I have attended. I have not received any invitations to attend Irish Language events.

Departmental Invitations to Events

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he would intend to attend, if invited, (i) an Irish language event; and (ii) an Ulster Scots event. (AQW 8713/08)

Mr G Campbell: I will consider all invitations received.

Halloween Bonfires

Mr Moutray asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many complaints his Department has received in relation to Halloween bonfires in each of the last five years. (AQW 8808/08)

Mr G Campbell: I understand from the Western Trust that, following the incident in question, it carried out an investigation and a number of areas of concern were identified, which it has now addressed.

The Trust was also satisfied that the appropriate staff numbers were available on the ward.

I am satisfied with the Trust’s response to this incident.

Ulster Senior Football Championship

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he plans to attend the Ulster Senior Football Championship final between Fermanagh and Armagh on 20 July 2008. (AQW 8841/08)

Mr G Campbell: I will consider all invitations received.

Education

Business Class Flights

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of times she has flown business class in her capacity as Minister since assuming office in May 2007; and (ii) the cost incurred by her Department for this travel, and to confirm if flying business class is standard practice or whether she is given the option of flying business class. (AQW 6777/08)

The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane): Since assuming office in May 2007, I have not flown business class on any occasion in my capacity as Minister.

Ní gnáthchleachtas s’agam féin ná mo Roinne eitilt grád gnó.

Flying business class is not my standard practice nor would it be my Departments.

Gaelscoil an Damba

Mr McCausland asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) when Gaelscoil an Damba was opened; (ii) the number of children attending the school in each year since it opened; (iii) the grant-aid paid to the school in each since it opened; (iv) the current enrolment of the school; and (v) the number of teachers currently employed in the school. (AQW 6778/08)

Ms C Ruane:

(i) Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sonraithe thíos: The information requested is detailed below: The school opened on 1 September 2003.

(ii) and (iv)

Pupils at Gaelscoil an Damba 2003/04 – 2007/08

	Enrolment
2003/04	17
2004/05	21
2005/06	27
2006/07	27
2007/08	29

 

Source: school census.

(iii) In-year grant-aid¹ to Gaelscoil an Damba From Date of Opening to March 08

Year	Total £
2003/04	57,433
2004/05	87,638
2005/06	104,311
2006/07	132,970
2007/08 Provisional	179,891

 

1 Funding includes delegated and non-delegated funds, excluding carry-over

(v) There are 2 teachers employed in the school in 2007/08.

Contracts for Consultancy Services

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education to provide, for each of the last 4 years, (i) how many contracts for consultancy services her department has awarded, which did not have to go out to public tender; (ii) a brief description and value of each contract; and (iii) to whom these contracts have been awarded. (AQW 6865/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Department does not hold the information requested for 2004/05; however the Department awarded 7 single tender contracts in 2005/06, 9 single tender contracts in 2006/07 and 10 single tender contracts in 2007/08.

Tá sonraí na gconarthaí seo do gach bliain de na trí bliana 2005/06 go 2007/08 sna táblaí thíos.

Details of these contracts for each of the three years 2005/06 to 2007/08 are contained in the tables below.

2005/06

Brief Description of contract	Value of Contract	Consultancy Firm
Review of management support in GMI and IM sectors	£3,494.86	Alan McVeigh
Policy review of teacher education	£4,250.00	Douglas Osler
Security technology	£1,600.00	Newell&Budge
Legal Advice	£660.00	Arthur Cox
Evaluation of nutritional standards pilot scheme	£27,064.95	PWC
Catering advisor	£11,248.20	Patricia McCusker
Review of home to school transport policy	£8,500.00	Queens University

 

2006/07

Brief Description of contract	Value of Contract	Consultancy Firm
Drafting of Governor Handbook	£6,515.13	Billy Burnison
Drafting of Governor Handbook	£2,834.94	Sheila McCaul
Drafting of Governor Handbook	£6,303.99	John Beatty
Drafting of Governor Handbook	£4,536.30	Arthur Rainey
Facilitation exercise for Mid/South Down post primary provision	£1,767.84	Alan McVeigh
Legal Advice	£3,198.39	Arthur Cox
Legal Advice	£400.00	Arthur Cox
Catering Advice	£8,942.32	Patricia McCusker
Review of home to school transport policy	£4,650.00	Queens University

 

2007/08

Brief Description of contract	Value of Contract	Consultancy Firm
Development Support	£2,253.00	MR Partnership
Consultation with children, parents and staff in early years setting	£700.00	NIPPA
Legal secretariat services for Middletown Centre	£11,576.58	Arthur Cox
Audit of North/South Exchange Consortium	£15,000.00	Matt Murray
Drafting of IM Report	£3,150.00	Thomas J Shaw
Revised literacy and numeracy strategy	£12,293.89	Dan McCall
Catering Advisor	£9,374.17	Patricia McCusker
Revision of pastoral care in schools policy: child protection	£6,596.20	Betty Robinson
Chartermark Re-assessment	£825.00	EMQC
Improving communication	£5,871.20	Mind Associates

 

Kilcooley Housing Estate in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education what plans she has for addressing educational needs in the Kilcooley Housing Estate, Bangor. (AQW 6947/08)

Ms C Ruane: Pupils resident in the Kilcooley area of Bangor, in common with many disadvantaged areas in the North, achieve below average educational outcomes. This reflects the strong correlation between socio-economic status and educational outcomes. There are of course exceptions to this and I pay tribute those pupils, their parents and teachers who have achieved good results despite their disadvantage.

Tacóidh cur i bhfeidhm an churaclaim athbhreithnithe, an creat teidlíochta, ár mbeartas nua i leith feabhsú scoileanna atá beartaithe, ‘Is Scoil Mhaith Gach Scoil’ agus beartais eile atá ag céimeanna éagsúla ulmhaithe, agus an Straitéis Athbhreithnithe Litearthachta agus Uimhearthachta agus Riachtanais Speisialta Oideachais san áireamh, le caighdeáin a ardú do dhaltaí sa cheantar seo agus i gceantair eile atá faoi mhíbhuntáiste.

The implementation of the revised curriculum, the entitlement framework, our proposed new school improvement policy, ‘Every School a Good School’ and other policies at various stages of development including, the Revised Literacy and Numeracy Strategy and Special Educational Needs will all support improved standards for pupils in this and other disadvantaged areas.

Alongside this, the SEELB continues to provide advice and support to schools and teachers and also has a number of specific youth initiatives being implemented in the area.

Donaghadee High School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many letters of opposition to the closure of Donaghadee High School she has received. (AQW 6949/08)

Ms C Ruane: Go dtí seo tá 866 litir pro forma i gcoinne an mholta seo faighte ag an Roinn.

The Department has to date received 866 pro-forma letters opposing this proposal.

Nursery School Places

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education how many funded nursery school places there are in (i) Bangor; (ii) Holywood; (iii) Donaghadee; and (iv) Millisle. (AQW 6976/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá 416 áiteanna reachtúla naíolainne i naíscoil agus in aonaid naíolainne a bhfuil ceangal acu le bunscoileanna i mBeannchar.

There are 416 statutory nursery places in a nursery school and nursery units attached to a primary schools in Bangor. In addition, there are 207 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

There are 52 statutory nursery places in a nursery school in Holywood. In addition, there are 61 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

There are 52 statutory nursery places in a nursery unit attached to a primary school in Donaghadee. There are no funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

There are 26 statutory nursery places in a nursery unit attached to a primary school in Millisle. There are no funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

Nursery Places in Ards Borough Council

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Education how many children have failed to gain a pre-school place in the Ards Borough Council area in each of the last 3 years; what the present position is in relation to shortages of pre-school places; and what steps are being taken to resolve current problems. (AQW 7067/08)

Ms C Ruane: In 2006/07 and 2007/08 respectively, 29 children and 23 children were unplaced. 27 and 17 places respectively remained available in voluntary/private settings. Unfortunately demand cannot always be geographically matched to supply.

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

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

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

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

Leanfaidh BOLOD le monatóireacht ar sholáthar réamhscoile ina gceantar le tabhairt faoi aon riachtanas le háiteanna breise réamhscoile a shainaithneofar.

The SEELB will continue to monitor pre-school provision in their area in order to address any need for additional pre-school places if identified.

School Football Pitches

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if she will consider giving schools the power to allow their football pitches to be used by community groups. (AQW 7090/08)

Ms C Ruane: Under the Recreation and Youth Service Order 1986 the responsibility for the provision of adequate facilities for recreational, social, physical and cultural activities lies with District Councils.

Through the Department’s Extended School programme almost 400 of our most socially disadvantaged schools have been identified for funding.

Our policy seeks to establish each extended school as the hub of its local community engaging positively and actively with neighbouring schools, statutory, voluntary and community sector organisations in an effort to meet the needs of the pupils in the school. As part of the process of preparing their Extended School action plans, schools were therefore asked to consult with local community and statutory organisations to establish if there are particular community needs which could be met by the school. Greater community use of playing fields would certainly fall into that category.

Of course we cannot expect schools to be able to respond positively to all requests and in the case of playing fields wear and tear and insurance will be important considerations but closer links between the school and its community is a key element of the policy and one which we are seeking to develop

Toisc go bhfuil saincheisteanna ann maidir le caitheamh agus cuimilt agus árachas, ba é an cur chuige ab fhearr do ghrúpaí pobail, ar mian leo páirceanna imeartha a úsáid, teagmháil a dhéanamh go díreach leis an scoil le plé a dhéanamh ar cibé socruithe a d’fhéadfaí a dhéanamh.

In view of the issues of wear and tear and insurance the best approach would be for community groups wishing to use playing fields to approach the school direct to discuss what arrangements might be possible.

Revised Curriculum

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education for an update on the revised curriculum since its introduction in September 2007. (AQW 7091/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá cur i bhfeidhm an churaclaim athbhreithnithe ag dul ar aghaidh go maith agus leanfar de sa dá scoilbhliain seo romhainn; tabharfar isteach go céimneach é do Bhlianta 2, 6, 9 agus 12 i scoilbhliain 2008/09, agus do Bhlianta 3, 4, 7 agus 10 i 2009/10.

The implementation of the revised curriculum is progressing well and will continue over the next two school years, rolling out to Years 2, 6, 9 and 12 in the 2008/09 school year, and to Years 3, 4, 7 and 10 in 2009/10. The Education & Training Inspectorate (ETI) report into implementation during the 2006/07 year, and the 2007 National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) report, showed the progress made so far and identified areas for improvement, which have helped to inform ongoing developments to ensure the needs of teachers and principals are met. The Partnership Management Board, set up across the education partners to manage curriculum implementation, is continuing to provide a support programme for principals and teachers and its plans have been informed by feedback from principals and the ETI and NFER reports.

From the 2008/09 school year the Foundation Stage of the revised curriculum will be fully in place, providing additional opportunities for teachers to support the learning of our youngest pupils.

As a result of the Budget outcome, I am providing an extra £22 million to support the implementation of the revised curriculum from 2008/09 to 2010/11 and an extra £32 million over this period to support primary schools with the delivery of the Foundation Stage of the revised curriculum. This includes £7 million in the 2008/09 financial year to provide, for the first time, access to classroom assistance for all Year 1 and Year 2 pupils.

In support of a broad and balanced curriculum I have introduced a Curriculum Sports Programme, which aims to support PE and other areas of the revised curriculum and focuses on developing the physical literacy skills of our youngest pupils, and also a Primary Languages Programme to support those schools who wish to deliver Spanish or Irish.

Millisle Primary School

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education why the funding for the after-school and breakfast clubs has been withdrawn from Millisle Primary School; and what will replace the funding to ensure that these schemes continue. (AQW 7246/08)

Ms C Ruane: I hope you will find it helpful if I provide some background information on the Extended Schools criteria that has operated in the previous two financial years and the changes that have been implemented for the 2008/09 financial year that have impacted on Millisle PS.

In each of the 2006/07 and 2007/08 financial years primary schools were deemed to be in the programme if they met the following criteria;

Located in a Neighbourhood Renewal Area (NRA) or from the 30% lowest ranking wards or Super Output Areas in the education domain;

A Free School Meals Entitlement at or above 37%.

Millisle PS was eligible for funding on the basis of being located in an NRA.

For the 2008/09 financial year it has been decided to change the eligibility criteria for primary schools to reflect the fact that we now have more sophisticated data. As outlined above we previously relied on a school’s location funding those located in NRAs or the 30% most disadvantaged wards. This had the obvious weakness in that not all pupils attend their nearest primary school and in some cases a school located just outside an eligible NRA drew pupils from it. The Department now collects postcode data which allows us to select primary schools 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.

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

51% or more of their pupils drawn from a NRA or from the 30% most deprived wards or with a FSME at or above 37%

Millisle PS has no pupils from areas of social disadvantage and 16% FSME and is therefore ineligible for funding in 2008/09.

With regards the issue of replacement funding schools here have been offering extended school activities for many years through a variety of methods – voluntary effort then LMS budget, grants from external sources or parental contributions. The finance available under the Extended Schools Programme enables the most disadvantaged schools to offer activities.

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.

I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents and 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. I am very disappointed that to date there has been an inadequate response.

Tá súil agam go dtig leis na scoileanna siúd, nach bhfuil i dteideal maoinithe do Scoileanna Sínte faoi láthair, leanúint ar aghaidh agus leibhéal áirithe gníomhaíochta a sholáthar ar mhaithe le leas a gcuid daltaí go díreach mar atá déanta ag go leor scoileanna eile le roinnt mhaith blianta.

I hope that those schools not now eligible for Extended Schools funding can continue to offer some level of extended schools activity for the benefit of their pupils in the same way as many other schools have done for many years.

Magherafelt High School

Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 479/07, for an update on the start date of the construction of a new build for Magherafelt High School. (AQW 7574/08)

Ms C Ruane: The North Eastern Education and Library Board have advised that planning of the proposed new school for Magherafelt High School is currently being progressed by the Board to detailed design stage. Upon completion, and subject to the detailed design costs being considered satisfactory by the Department it is expected that the project should proceed to tender stage in July 2008. Following the satisfactory completion of this process the NEELB anticipate that construction work on the new school will commence around January 2009.

Tá sin níos moille ná mar a réamh-mheasadh roimh ré. Tá sé sin amhlaidh mar gheall ar an mhoill a baineadh as pleananna sceitse agus costais deiridh a chríochnú. Ba é an rud ba chúis leis an mhoill ná go raibh roinnt obair athdheartha le déanamh, ar iarratas ón tSeirbhís um Bhóithre ionas go dtiocfadh léi tacú leis an Iarratas Pleanála ar scoil úr.

This is later than previously projected but is a result of a delay in completing final sketch plans and costs. This delay was caused by some re-design work having to be undertaken at the request of the Roads Service to enable it to support the Planning Application for the new school.

Primary School Places in Derry/Londonderry

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education how many surplus pupil places there were for each primary school in the city of Derry/Londonderry, for each sector, in each of the last 5 years. (AQW 7609/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá líon measta na n-áiteanna breise i gCathair Dhoire i ngach ceann de na 5 bliana dheireanacha, in aghaidh na hearnála, leagtha síos sa tábla thíos. Ní áiríonn an tábla na scoileanna sin nach bhfuil aon áiteanna breise acu.

The estimated number of surplus places in the City of Derry in each of the last 5 years, by sector, is detailed in the table below. The table does not include those schools that have no surplus capacity.

School Name	Surplus 03/04	Surplus 04/05	Surplus 05/06	Surplus 06/07	Surplus 07/08
Controlled
Londonderry Model PS	74	82	90	74	64
Ebrington PS	60	80	92	96	97
Newbuildings PS	69	97	101	106	124
Ashlea PS	90	105	104	111	112
Fountain PS	21	13	27	30	50
Catholic Maintained
Rosemount PS	115	134	141	149	162
Nazareth House PS	0	0	0	0	8
Holy Child PS	117	134	140	146	148
St John’s PS	51	90	104	138	134
St Anne’s PS	81	101	125	138	156
Steelstown PS	0	9	9	41	75
St Brigid’s PS	173	184	187	179	183
St Oliver Plunkett PS	55	58	59	64	68
St Paul’s PS Slievemore	174	204	218	254	259
St Columba’s PS	53	62	77	81	90
Trench Road PS	9	29	58	94	113
Good Shepherd PS and NS	25	20	17	9	16
St Therese PS	0	10	28	40	60
Chapel Road PS	77	58	58	59	50
Holy Family PS	65	114	132	130	147
St Eithne’s PS	35	0	7	20	35
Longtower PS	216	250	266	272	286
St Eugene’s PS	163	181	195	210	232
Bunscoil Cholmcille	80	84	96	106	110
Other Maintained
*Gaelscoil Eadain Mhoir	26	5	29	29	10
Integrated
Oakgrove Integrated PS	8	1	7	0	1
Controlled	314	377	414	417	447
Maintained	1489	1722	1917	2130	2332
Other Maintained	26	5	29	29	10
Grant Maintained Integrated	8	1	7	0	1
Total	1,837	2,105	2,367	2,576	2,790

 

* This is a school located in temporary accommodation – additional mobiles are added as required.

Post Primary Schools in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education how many applications for places in post-primary schools in the North Down constituency, for the 2008-09 academic year, were unable to be accepted. (AQW 7622/08)

Ms C Ruane: Soláthraíonn an tábla thíos na figiúirí do líon na n-áiteanna atá ar fáil i mBliain 8 do scoileanna i dtoghcheantar Thuaisceart an Dúin i gcomparáid le líon na n-iarratas ar na háiteanna sin.

The table below provides the figures of the number of places available at year 8 for schools in the North Down constituency against the number of applications for these places. Please note that as young people express preferences on their Transfer Forms for a number of schools, the same children may feature in the applications figure of a number of schools. Therefore an applicant who was unsuccessful at more than one school may been admitted at another school. This explains the fact that whilst the total number of applications that were not accepted is 268, the number of children with addresses in the North Down constituency who currently do not have a post-primary place is 23.

School	Approved Admissions Number	Total Applications
Donaghadee HS	76	10
Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College	242	298
St Columbanus’ College	90	131
Priory Integrated College	94	94
Glenlola Collegiate	157	244
Bangor Grammar School	125	173
Sullivan Upper	150	186

 

Post-Primary School Places in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education how many year 8 places were available at each post-primary school in the North Down constituency in each of the last 5 years; and in terms of applications, how many schools were (i) over subscribed; and (ii) under subscribed. (AQW 7623/08)

Ms C Ruane: Soláthraíonn an tábla thíos an t-eolas a iarradh. Tabhair faoi deara le do thoil, de réir mar a chuireann daoine óga a sainroghanna in iúl ar a gcuid Foirmeacha Aistrithe do scoileanna áirithe, seans go mbeidh ainmneacha na bpáistí céanna le feiceáil ar na hiarratais a gheobhaidh scoileanna áirithe.

The table below provides the information requested. Please note that as young people express preferences on their Transfer Forms for a number of schools, the same children may feature in the applications figure of a number of schools.

School	School Year	Approved Admissions Number	Total Number of Applications	Under (U) /Over (O) Subscribed
Donaghadee HS	2008/09	76	10	U
	2007/08	76	12	U
	2006/07	76	19	U
	2005/06	76	35	U
	2004/05	76	22	U
Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College	2008/09	242	298	O
	2007/08	242	221	U
	2006/07	242	170	U
	2005/06	242	198	U
	2004/05	242	212	U
St Columbanus’ College	2008/09	90	131	O
	2007/08	90	153	O
	2006/07	90	107	O
	2005/06	91	112	O
	2004/05	90	105	O
Priory Integrated College	2008/09	94*	94	-
	2007/08	85	81	U
	2006/07	85	63	U
	2005/06	90	80	U
	2004/05	90	90	-
Glenlola Collegiate	2008/09	157	244	O
	2007/08	158	211	O
	2006/07	157	180	O
	2005/06	157	188	O
	2004/05	160	193	O
Bangor GS	2008/09	125	173	O
	2007/08	137	177	O
	2006/07	136	145	O
	2005/06	136	167	O
	2004/05	136	161	O
Sullivan Upper	2008/09	150	186	O
	2007/08	150	167	O
	2006/07	150	222	O
	2005/06	151	207	O
	2004/05	150	155	O

 

* Department granted a temporary increase to the admissions number as a consequence of children of Forces Personnel arriving in the area.

Post-Primary School Places in North Down

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education how many (i) year 8 places were available; and (ii) how many applications were received, in each post-primary school in the North Down constituency for the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7624/08)

Ms C Ruane: Soláthraíonn an tábla thíos an t-eolas a iarradh. Tabhair faoi deara le do thoil, de réir mar a chuireann daoine óga a sainroghanna in iúl ar a gcuid Foirmeacha Aistrithe do scoileanna áirithe, seans go mbeidh ainmneacha na bpáistí céanna le feiceáil ar na hiarratais a gheobhaidh scoileanna áirithe.

The table below contains the requested information. Please note that as young people express preferences on their Transfer Forms for a number of schools, the same children may feature in the applications figure of a number of schools.

School	Approved Admissions Number	Total Applications
Donaghadee HS	76	10
Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College	242	298
St Columbanus’ College	90	131
Priory Integrated College	94	94
Glenlola Collegiate	157	244
Bangor Grammar School	125	173
Sullivan Upper	150	186

 

Criteria for Admission to Nursery Schools

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education what the criteria is for admission to nursery schools; and if there are any planned changes to this criteria. (AQW 7678/08)

Ms C Ruane:

i. Sonraíonn Rialacháin Réamhscolaíochta i Scoileanna (Critéir Iontrála) 1999 gur chóir do scoileanna tús áite a thabhairt ina gcritéir iontrála san ord tosaíochta seo a leanas do: The Pre-School Education in Schools (Admissions Criteria) Regulations 1999 state that schools should give priority in their admissions criteria in the following order of priority to: children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who will be aged 4 before September in their final pre-school year

ii. children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who will be aged 3 before September in their final pre-school year

iii. children not falling within i. or ii. who will be aged 4 before 1 September in their final pre-school year

iv. children not falling within i. or ii. who will be aged 3 before 1 September in their final pre-school year

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

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

Priory College in Holywood

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Priory College, Holywood, is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7680/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

St Columbanus College in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if St Columbanus College, Bangor, is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7681/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Bangor Academy

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Bangor Academy is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7682/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Bangor Grammar School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Bangor Grammar is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7683/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Movilla High School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Movilla High School is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7741/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Strangford College

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Strangford College is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7742/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7743/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Sullivan Upper School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if Sullivan Upper, Holywood, is over subscribed for the start of the 2008-09 academic year. (AQW 7745/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá suibscríobh iomarcach déanta ar iontrálacha ar Bhliain 8 don scoilbhliain 2008/09 sna scoileanna seo a leanas: Coláiste na Prióireachta, Ard Mhic Neasca, Coláiste Naomh Columbanus, Beannchar; Acadamh Bheannchair, Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannchair, Coláiste Loch Cuan; Scoil Ghramadaí Choláisteach Glenlola agus Sullivan Upper. Tá suibscríobh easnamhach déanta ar Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile, Baile Nua na hArda; tá 103 áit ar fáil inti do pháistí atá ag aistriú ón bhunscoil.

Priory College, Holywood; St Columbanus’ College, Bangor; Bangor Academy; Bangor Grammar School; Strangford College; Glenlola Collegiate Grammar School and Sullivan Upper are over-subscribed for admissions to year 8 for the 2008/09 school year. Movilla High School, Newtownards is under-subscribed at year 8; it has 103 places available for children transferring from primary school.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education how many cars are currently (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by her Department; what is the (a) make; (b) model; (c) engine size; (d) fuel type; and (e) purpose, of each of these cars; and what the fuel efficiency is of each model. (AQW 7779/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Department of Education (DE) does not own or lease any cars. However, DE owns a Ford Transit van with a diesel engine size of 2500cc with fuel consumption of approximately 40mpg. The purpose of the van is to undertake furniture and equipment deliveries/collections to and from School Inspectors home offices.

Chaith an Roinn Oideachais £275 ar bhreosla don veain díosail Ford Transit atá aici, ó cineachadh cumhacht.

The Department of Education has spent £275 on fuel for the diesel Ford Transit van that it owns, since devolution.

Departmental Vehicles

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education how much her Department has spent on fuel for vehicles (i) owned; and (ii) leased, by the Department since devolution. (AQW 7781/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Department of Education (DE) does not own or lease any cars. However, DE owns a Ford Transit van with a diesel engine size of 2500cc with fuel consumption of approximately 40mpg. The purpose of the van is to undertake furniture and equipment deliveries/collections to and from School Inspectors home offices.

Chaith an Roinn Oideachais £275 ar bhreosla don veain díosail Ford Transit atá aici, ó cineachadh cumhacht.

The Department of Education has spent £275 on fuel for the diesel Ford Transit van that it owns, since devolution.

Tamnamore Primary School in Dungannon

Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Education what are her plans for the future of Tamnamore Primary School, Dungannon. (AQW 7835/08)

Ms C Ruane: Thug Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Deiscirt le fios go leanfar ar aghaidh le háitreabh Bhunscoil an Tamhnaigh Mhóir a úsáid chun críocha oideachais cosúil le soláthar Oideachas Seachas Scolaíocht (EOTAS) i ndiaidh chónascadh Bhunscoil an Tamhnaigh Mhóir le Bunscoil Chill na mBan.

The Southern Education and Library Board has advised that following the amalgamation of Tamnamore Primary School with Killyman Primary School in September 2008 on the Killyman site, the Tamnamore premises will continue to be used for educational purposes as Education Other Than At School (EOTAS) provision.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education what is the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 7840/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá costas iomlán na laethanta amuigh agus laethanta um neartú na foirniúlachta sna cúig bliana airgeadais dheireanacha mar seo a leanas: The total cost of staff away days and staff team building days, in the last five financial years is as follows:

Away days & Teambuilding

Year	Cost
2003/04	£58, 109.11
2004/05	£33, 346.16
2005/06	£29, 996.00
2006/07	£42, 124.11
2007/08	£44, 284.49
Total Cost	£207, 859.87

 

The above are all costs associated with staff away days/team building days. These include costs for the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) which provides inspection services for the Department of Education (DE), the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) and the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL).

Away days in the main are used for Business Planning. As an Investor in People there is a requirement to involve people when developing the organisation’s business plan and when agreeing team and individual objectives. It is not possible to show separately the costs for away days (business planning) and team building exercises. In the Department of Education, however, teambuilding days are generally arranged through Employer Supported Volunteering with Voluntary Service Bureau at nil cost.

Pre-School Education Advisory Group Funding

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education why Pre-School Education Advisory Group (PEAG) funding is not paid to playgroups at the start of the school year. (AQW 7856/08)

Ms C Ruane: Voluntary pre-school settings, unlike schools, are not funded under the Common Funding Scheme for the Local Management of Schools.

Is ar bhonn míosúil a thugann gach Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann maoiniú i ndáil áiteanna réamhscolaíochta san earnáil dheonach/phríobháideach, faoin Chlár um Réamhscolaíocht a Fhorbairt (PSEEP).

Funding in respect of pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector, under the Pre-School Education Expansion Programme (PSEEP), is made by each Education and Library Board on a monthly basis.

In the 2007/08 school year the value of a funded place in the voluntary sector is £1,405. Voluntary settings know that this figure multiplied by the number of children in attendance, is the amount of funding they attract from the Education and Library Board under PSEEP.

Special Needs Assistants

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education why playgroups are not able to secure provision to employ Special Needs Assistants through Education and Library Boards, as occurs for nurseries. (AQW 7858/08)

Ms C Ruane: While the Education and Library Boards have a statutory duty to make special educational provision in schools within the grant aided sector, a parent may request the relevant Board to arrange for a statutory assessment of a child’s needs, regardless of the child’s current placement.

If a statutory assessment is undertaken and it concludes that the child’s needs should be met in a playgroup provision, then the Boards have the necessary power to arrange that special educational provision, including a special needs assistant, can be made there.

The Department commenced a Review of Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Inclusion in April 2006 to address a range of issues associated with the current SEN framework.

Tá bunphrionsabail áirithe mar pháirt lárnach de na moltaí atá ag teacht chun cinn .i. comhionannas rochtana agus leanúnachas, ardchaighdeán agus comhsheasmhacht i dtaca le measúnú agus idirghabháil.

Central to the emerging recommendations are the key principles of equality of access and continuity, quality and consistency of assessment and intervention.

Grammar School Figures

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education for (i) the number of children, broken down by gender, from the South Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) area who obtained a placement in a grammar school in (a) the SEELB area; and (b) the Belfast Education and Library Board area, in each of the last five years; and (ii) the grades obtained by these children to allow them to be granted a place in each of those schools. (AQW 7879/08)

Ms C Ruane: Thug Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt le fios don Roinn nach bhfuil an t-eolas a iarradh ar fáil go héasca agus go nglacfaidh sé am é a chur le chéile. Scríobhfaidh mé chuig an Chomhalta nuair a bheas an t-eolas ar fáil.

The South-Eastern Education and Library Board have advised the Department that the information requested is not readily available and will take some time to collate. I will write to the Member with the information when it is available.

Criteria for Closure of Schools

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education what criteria is followed for the closure of schools. (AQW 7939/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá gach dúnadh scoile faoi réir fhoilsiú Togra Forbartha reachtúil. Cuireann foilsiú Togra Forbartha tús le tréimhse chomhairliúcháin dhá mhí, rud a thugann deis do na páirtithe leasmhara uile a dtuairimí ar an togra a thabhairt go díreach don Roinn.

All school closures are subject to the publication of a statutory Development Proposal. The publication of a Development Proposal initiates a two-month consultation period during which all interested parties can comment on the proposal directly to the Department. At the end of this period, I make a decision on the proposal following due consideration of all the relevant information.

In making my decisions, I take into consideration a range of factors including intake and enrolment levels, educational experience, budgetary issues, the overall provision within the area and the comments received during the consultation process. Proposals to close schools are considered on a case by case basis and the particular circumstances pertaining to an individual school considered carefully.

Food in Primary Schools

Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Education what foods are (i) prohibited; and (ii) discouraged, in primary schools. (AQW 7955/08)

Ms C Ruane: D’eisigh an Roinn Oideachais caighdeáin úra cothaitheacha do lóin scoile agus do bhia eile i scoileanna do gach scoil dheontaschúnta i Márta 2008.

The Department of Education issued new nutritional standards for school lunches and other food in schools to all grant-aided schools in March 2008. These outline the food and drink which should and should not be provided and are available on the Department’s website at www.deni.gov.uk.

The standards state that: meat or chicken products (such as burgers, sausages, sausage rolls, chicken nuggets etc) should be served a maximum of once a week in primary schools;

deep-fried foods or other high fat products, such as chips and roast potatoes, must not be offered, in total, more than twice a week;

the only savoury snacks available should be nuts and seeds with no added salt or sugar;

confectionery, chocolate and chocolate-coated products should not be available throughout the lunchtime or sold in schools;

cakes and biscuits can only be provided at lunchtime and as part of a meal;

the only drinks available should be plain water, milk, pure fruit juices, yoghurt or milk drinks or drinks made from a combination of these (eg smoothies), low calorie hot chocolate, tea and coffee.

I should add that it is recommended that all children eat a balanced diet with a variety of foods. The aim of the nutritional standards is to help pupils make healthy choices by providing a range of healthy meals, to convey the meaning and importance of a healthy diet and to contribute to a reduction in the levels of child obesity.

Ballyduff Primary School

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what progress has been made between her Department and the Department for Social Development in relation to the release of the site of the former Ballyduff Primary School, for the development of a housing scheme. (AQW 7965/08)

Ms C Ruane: Is le Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirthuaiscirt (BOLOT) áitreabh Bhunscoil Bhaile Uí Dhuibh agus tá siad á gcur ar fáil anois le díol ar an mhargadh oscailte.

The former Ballyduff Primary School premises are owned by the North Eastern Education and Library Board (NEELB) and are being made available for disposal on the open market.

The NEELB has advised that it has not been approached by the Department for Social Development to express an interest in acquiring these premises for housing.

Priory Integrated College in Holywood

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education for an update on the timescale for the new building for Priory Integrated College, Holywood. (AQW 7983/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt freagrach as Coláiste Imeasctha na Prióireachta agus thug sé le fios go dtiocfadh le hobair thógála ar an fhoirgneamh úr tosú ar an suíomh sa bhliain airgeadais 2009/10 agus meastar go gcríochnófar í sa bhliain 2011/12. Tá sé sin ag brath ar na próisis chuí phleanála agus tógála bheith críochnaithe go sásúil agus acmhainní bheith ar fáil in aon bhliain ar leith.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board has responsibility for Priory Integrated College and has advised that construction work on the new building could start on site in the 2009/10 financial year with an estimated completion date in 2011/12. This is subject to the necessary planning and building processes being completed satisfactorily and the availability of resources in any particular year.

Capital Development Schemes

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the new build capital development schemes; and (ii) the capital development schemes which were granted permission in each year for the last 5 years, broken down by Education and Library Board. (AQW 8044/08)

Ms C Ruane: Soláthraíonn Tábla A thíos sonraí na scéimeanna forbartha caipitil a bhfuil obair thógála ar siúl iontu i láthair na huaire.

Table A below provides details of capital development schemes where construction work is currently underway.

Table A

School	Details of Project
Abbey G.S. Newry	New replacement school on new site
Assumption G.S. Ballynahinch	Extension & Refurbishment
Ballinderry P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
Ballymacrickett P.S.	New replacement school on extended site
Bangor Academy	New replacement school on existing site
Brookefield Special School, Moira	New replacement school on existing site
Burnfoot/Dungiven/Largy P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
Drumragh Integrated College. Omagh	New replacement school on new site
Holy Cross College, Strabane	New replacement school on existing site
La Salle Boys’ S.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
Moorfields P.S. Ballymena	New replacement school on existing site
Mount Lourdes G.S. Enniskillen	Extension & Refurbishment
Pond Park P.S. Lisburn	New replacement school on extended site
St Colman’s College, Newry	Extension & Refurbishment
St Dominic’s H.S. Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment
St Patrick’s P.S. Saul	New replacement school on new site
St Peter’s P.S. Cloughreagh	New replacement school on existing site
Towerview P.S. Bangor	New replacement school on existing site
Victoria P.S. Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site
Waringstown P.S.	Extension & Refurbishment

 

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

TABLE B

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

 

Table C below provides a breakdown of all major capital development schemes which were granted new starts approval in each of the last 5 years, broken down by Education and Library Board.

Table C

Year Funding Approved	Education & Library Board Area	School	Details of Project
2002	BELB	Bunscoil an tSleibhe Dhuibh P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2002	BELB	La Salle Boys’ S.S.Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2002	BELB	Meanscoil Feirste, Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment
2002	BELB	Harberton Special School, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2002	BELB	Cedar Lodge Special School, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2002	WELB	Bready / Sandville Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new replacement school on existing site
2002	WELB	Dervaghroy/Sixmilecross/The Hutton Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new replacement school on existing site
2002	WELB	Edwards P.S. Castlederg	New replacement school on existing site
2002	WELB	Drumragh Integrated College, Omagh	New replacement school on new site
2002	WELB	St Ninnidh’s P.S. Derrylin	New replacement school on extended site
2002	WELB	St Fanchea’s College Enniskillen	New replacement school on new site
2002	WELB	Thornhill College, Derry	Final Phase of new school building on existing site
2002	NEELB	Roddensvale Special School, Larne	New replacement school on existing site
2002	NEELB	Loanends P.S, Nutts Corner	New replacement school on new site
2002	NEELB	Millquarter P.S. Toomebridge	New replacement school on extended site
2002	NEELB	Hillcroft Special School, Newtownabbey	New replacement school on existing site
2002	NEELB	Crumlin H.S.	New Gymnasium
2002	NEELB	St Mary’s P.S. Portglenone	New replacement school on extended site (PPP)
2002	SEELB	Clough / Downshire Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new replacement school on an extended site
2002	SEELB	Hillsborough / Newport Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new replacement school on existing site
2002	SEELB	Dundonald P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2002	SEELB	Regent House G.S. Newtownards	Final Phase of extension & refurbishment
2002	SEELB	Tor Bank Special School, Dundonald	New replacement school on new site (PPP)
2002	SEELB	Lagan College, Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment (PPP)
2002	SEELB	Our Lady & St Patrick’s College, Knock	New replacement school on existing site (PPP)
2002	SEELB	St Patrick’s G.S. Downpatrick	New replacement school on existing site (PPP)
2002	SEELB	St Joseph’s P.S. Carryduff	New replacement school on extended site (PPP)
2002	SELB	St Patrick’s College, Dungannon	New replacement school on existing site
2002	SELB	Fivemiletown H.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2003	BELB	St Dominic’s H.S. Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	BELB	Strathearn G.S. Belfast	New replacement school on extended site
2003	BELB	Springhill P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2003	BELB	Orangefield P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on new site (PPP)
2003	BELB	Belfast Boys’ Model School	New replacement school on existing site (PPP)
2003	BELB	Belfast Model School for Girls	New replacement school on existing site (PPP)
2003	BELB	Grosvenor G.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site (PPP
2003	BELB	Ashfield Girls H.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2003	WELB	Lisneal College, Derry	New replacement school on new site
2003	WELB	Omagh Integrated P.S.	New replacement school on new site
2003	WELB	Maguiresbridge P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2003	WELB	Mount Lourdes G.S. Enniskillen	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	WELB	Kesh P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2003	WELB	Hutton/Sixmilecross/The Hutton Nursery School	New replacement nursery school on existing site
2003	WELB	Cranny Special School, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site
2003	NEELB	Creggan P.S. Randalstown	New replacement school on existing site
2003	NEELB	Mossley P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2003	NEELB	Holy Family P.S. Magherafelt	New replacement school on extended site
2003	NEELB	Camphill P.S. Ballymena	New replacement school on existing site
2003	NEELB	Leaney P.S. Ballymoney	New replacement school on existing site
2003	SEELB	Loughview Integrated P.S.	Extension
2003	SEELB	St Patrick’s P.S. Saul	New replacement school on new site
2003	SEELB	Kilmaine P.S. Bangor	New replacement school on existing site
2003	SEELB	Newtownards Model P.S.	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	SEELB	Assumption G.S. Ballynahinch	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	SEELB	Saintfield H.S.	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	SEELB	Ballyholme P.S. Bangor	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	SEELB	Hillsborough Nursery School	New replacement school on existing site
2003	SEELB	Kircubbin Community Nursery School	New school on new site
2003	SELB	St Patrick’s Academy Dungannon	New replacement school on existing site
2003	SELB	Annaghmore & Tullyroan Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new school on existing site
2003	SELB	Windmill Integrated P.S. Dungannon	New replacement school on existing site
2003	SELB	St Teresa’s P.S. Lurgan	New replacement school on extended site
2003	SELB	St Joseph’s Convent P.S. Newry	New replacement school on existing site
2003	SELB	St Paul’s H.S. Bessbrook	Extension & Refurbishment
2003	SELB	Abbey G.S. Newry	New replacement school on new site
2003	SELB	St Colman’s College Newry	New Sports Hall
2004	BELB	Strand / Sydenham P.S. Belfast	Amalgamation in new replacement school on existing site
2004	BELB	Greenwood Assessment Centre, Belfast	New replacement school on a new site
2004	BELB	Mitchell House Special School, Belfast	New replacement school on new site
2004	WELB	Burnfoot/Dungiven/Largy Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new school on new site
2004	WELB	Coranny & Cornagague P.S.	Amalgamation in a new school on new site
2004	WELB	Enniskillen Integrated P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2004	WELB	Killen P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2004	WELB	Lisbellaw P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2004	WELB	Lisnagelvin P.S. Derry	New replacement school on existing site
2004	WELB	St Paul’s P.S. Irvinestown	New replacement school on extended site
2004	WELB	Belmont House Special School	New replacement school on existing site
2004	WELB	Devenish College, Enniskillen	New replacement school on new site
2004	WELB	Limegrove & Glasvey Special Schools	Amalgamation in new replacement school on existing site
2004	WELB	St Columbkille’s P.S. Carrickmore	New replacement school on extended site
2004	WELB	Loreto G.S. Omagh	New replacement school on existing site (PPP)
2004	NEELB	Ballymena Maintained Primary Schools	Rationalisation of 4 schools into 2 new schools
2004	NEELB	Carnalridge P.S. Portrush	New replacement school on extended site
2004	NEELB	Fourtowns P.S. Ahoghill	New replacement school on existing site
2004	NEELB	Magherafelt P.S.	New replacement school on new site
2004	NEELB	Moorfields P.S. Ballymena	New replacement school on extended site
2004	NEELB	St Patrick’s & St Brigid’s P.S. Ballycastle	New replacement school on existing site
2004	NEELB	Ballymoney H.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2004	NEELB	Rainey Endowed School, Magherafelt	New replacement school on existing site
2004	SEELB	Ballinderry P.S.	New replacement school on new site
2004	SEELB	Ballymacrickett P.S.	New replacement school on new site
2004	SEELB	Brookefield Special School, Moira	New replacement school on new site
2004	SEELB	St Colman’s P.S. Lambeg	New replacement school on extended site
2004	SELB	Banbridge Academy	Extension & Refurbishment
2004	SELB	Carrick P.S. Warrenpoint	New replacement school on extended site
2004	SELB	Dromintee P.S.	New replacement school on new site
2004	SELB	Dromore Central P.S.	New replacement school on new site
2004	SELB	Maralin P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2004	SELB	St Colman’s College, Newry	Extension & Refurbishment
2004	SELB	St Oliver Plunkett P.S. Forkhill	New replacement school on new site
2004	SELB	St Peter’s P.S. Cloughreagh	New replacement school on existing site
2004	SELB	Holy Trinity College, Cookstown	New replacement school on existing site (PPP)
2006	BELB	Colaiste Feirste, Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment
2006	BELB	Glendhu Nursery School	New replacement school on existing site
2006	BELB	Glenwood P.S. & Edenderry Nursery Schools	New replacement schools on existing site
2006	BELB	Little Flower Girl’s S.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2006	BELB	Methodist College Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment
2006	BELB	Ravenscroft Nursery School, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2006	BELB	Strandtown P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site
2006	BELB	Victoria College, Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment
2006	WELB	Artigarvan P.S. Strabane	New replacement school on new site
2006	WELB	Arvalee Special School, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site
2006	WELB	Ballykelly P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2006	WELB	Dean Maguirc College, Carrickmore	New replacement school on new site
2006	WELB	Ebrington P.S. Derry	New replacement school on new site
2006	WELB	Eglinton P.S. Derry	New replacement school on existing site
2006	WELB	Enniskillen Model P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2006	WELB	Foyle & Londonderry College	New replacement school on new site
2006	WELB	New Buildings P.S. Derryy	New replacement school on existing site
2006	WELB	St Conor’s P.S. Omagh	New replacement school on extended site
2006	NEELB	Magherafelt H.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2006	NEELB	Parkhall College, Antrim	New replacement school on existing site
2006	NEELB	St Columba’s P.S. Straw	New replacement school on new site
2006	NEELB	Templepatrick P.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2006	NEELB	Whitehouse P.S. Newtownabbey	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	Bangor G.S.	New replacement school on new site
2006	SEELB	Glastry College, Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site
2006	SEELB	Holywood & Redburn Primary Schools	Amalgamation in a new replacement school on a new site
2006	SEELB	Knockbreda H.S.	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	Knockevin Special School, Downpatrick	Extension & Refurbishment
2006	SEELB	Pond Park P.S. Lisburn	New replacement school on extended site
2006	SEELB	Priory College, Holywood	New replacement school on new site
2006	SEELB	Scoil na Fuiseoige, Twinbrook	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	St Columbanus College, Bangor	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	St Mary’s P.S. Newcastle	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	The High School, Ballynahinch	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	Towerview P.S. Bangor	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SEELB	Victoria P.S. Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site
2006	SELB	St Bronagh’s P.S. Rostrevor	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	Edendork P.S. Dungannon	New replacement school on new site
2006	SELB	Lurgan College	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	Portadown College	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	St Catherine’s College, Armagh	Extension to Irish Medium Unit
2006	SELB	St Joseph’s P.S. Madden	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	St Louis G.S. Kilkeel	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	St Mary’s P.S. Banbridge	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	St Patrick’s College, Banbridge	New replacement school on existing site
2006	SELB	St Patrick’s G.S. Armagh	Extension & Refurbishment
2006	SELB	Waringstown P.S.	Extension & Refurbishment
2006	SELB	Tannaghmore P.S. Lurgan	New replacement school on existing site

 

Saintfield Academy

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education when she was made aware of the proposals by the South Eastern Education and Library Board in relation to a new build project for Saintfield Academy; and why her officials have refused to attend a site meeting at the current site, as part of the process towards the submission of a valid economic appraisal. (AQW 8048/08)

Ms C Ruane: Chuir an Bord Dréachtmheastóireacht Eacnamaíoch ar Bhunscoil Academy, Tamhnach Naomh faoi bhráid na Roinne go mall in Eanáir 2008. Níor dhiúltaigh feidhmeannaigh freastal ar chruinniú ar an suíomh.

A draft Economic Appraisal for Academy Primary School, Saintfield was presented to the Department by the Board in late January 2008. Officials have not refused to attend a site meeting. The SEELB have been informed that following their request for a site visit in May 2008, the Department has requested further information on the position at the school to inform the consideration of the necessity for a capital scheme. This information will be assessed by the Department on receipt and if necessary a site visit would be arranged.

North-South Educational Exchanges

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education what progress has been made in the review of North-South educational exchanges. (AQW 8097/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Review of Co-operation on Educational Exchanges and Supporting Mechanisms is complete.

Tá an tuarascáil faighte agam ón fhoireann athbhreithnithe mar aon le moltaí ó fheidhmeannaigh s’agamsa. Beidh ar chontrapháirt s’agamsa sa deisceart agus ormsa na chéad chéimeanna eile a chomhaontú i ndiaidh dúinn deis a fháil leis an tuarascáil a bhreithniú.

I have received the report from the review team along with the recommendations from my officials. My counterpart in the south and I will need to jointly agree next steps after we have had an opportunity to consider the report.

Departmental Unfinished Reviews

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education how many unfinished reviews are ongoing in her Department, and the current position on each. (AQW 8098/08)

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

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

Review	Current Position
Empowering Schools Strategy	A draft report is being prepared by officials and will be submitted to the Minister in the Autumn
Review of SEN and Inclusion	The policy proposals which have emerged from the review are presently being taken through the required Assembly structures. On current timescales they will issue for public consultation in the autumn term.
Review of Alternative Education Provision	The emerging policy proposals will be presented to the Minister in the coming weeks. The agreed proposals will be the subject of public consultation later this year.
Review of Irish Medium Education	A draft report is being finalised by officials and will be submitted to the Minister shortly.
School Improvement Policy: ‘Every School a Good School – A Policy for School Improvement’	Consultation closed on 31 March 2008. A significant number of responses was received. The analysis of these is being used to inform the final version of the policy.
Literacy and Numeracy Strategy: ‘Every School a Good School – A Strategy for Raising Achievement in Literacy and Numeracy’	The revised literacy and numeracy strategy issued on 23 June 2008 for consultation
School Library Policy	A new School Library Policy is currently being developed. We hope that it will issue for consultation in early 2009.
Primary School Building Handbook	Suggestions from the education sector for revisions to the Handbook are currently being assessed
Review of Community Relations Policy	The Department of Education is currently reviewing its community relations policy to take into account the introduction of the citizenship element of the curriculum, an increasingly diverse society in the north of Ireland and the key drivers affecting the education system in relation to enhanced collaboration. A Working Group has been established to take forward the review and the first meeting was held on 3 June 2008. and the second meeting took place on 23 June 2008.
Review of ‘Priorities for Youth’	The Department of Education has begun a process to develop Priorities for Youth which build on the current Strategy for the Delivery of Youth Work in the north of Ireland 2005-2008. The Priorities for Youth review has been initiated and 3 questionnaires have been issued to 3 groups (children and young people, youth workers, leaders and volunteers and managers in youth or relevant children’s services). The questionnaires are to be returned to the Department by 30 September 2008 and the findings will be discussed in a series of focus groups. This will be followed by a formal consultation process.
Teacher Education	A joint review of teacher education is being undertaken by DE and DEL and is nearing completion. It is hoped to bring forward proposals to the two ministers and the relevant Assembly Committees by the autumn of 2008.
Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM)	An independent review of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) has been commissioned by DE and DEL. Its final report is expected in summer 2008.
Early Years Strategy	Work is currently underway to formulate a new joined-up strategy for Early Years 0 – 6 which will bring Sure Start, pre-school and the home child care agendas together in a cohesive way to support the integration of service delivery. This 0 – 6 focus will ensure that there is a solid framework in place for early childhood to prepare for life at school whilst not formalising education for young children and recognising the health and wider benefits of early years interventions. Stakeholder consultations ceased in November 2007 and the Department is currently collating stakeholder views and considering recommendations. The Department aims to put a draft strategy to the Education Committee later in the year.
Annual Review of Common Funding Scheme	This is part of the ongoing process of review and refinement of current formula funding arrangements for all grant-aided schools. Consultation will take place with schools in the autumn on any potential variations to existing funding arrangements and, subject to Ministerial approval, any changes would take effect from April 2009.
Review of Financial Management Processes within the Department.	A review of the Department’s financial management processes has been commissioned and is being taken forward by Deloitte & Touche. A draft report is expected by the end of July.

 

Languages in Primary Schools

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education to outline the work conducted by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment on languages in primary schools. (AQW 8100/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) has been involved in pilot work looking at languages in primary schools since 2003/04. This work has focused on French, Spanish and Irish and evaluation has highlighted good practice and benefits for young people in learning a language from an early age.

As you know learning a second language at an early age is something I believe strongly can benefit our young people, and is the reason I introduced my curricular Primary Languages Programme in the 2007/08 school year, providing peripatetic tutors to support schools wishing to deliver Spanish and Irish as growing languages in global terms and in terms of post-primary provision.

CCEA has provided guidance materials and enabled sharing of good practice among teachers which complements the work of the peripatetic tutors in primary schools. Feedback from schools on both the curricular programme to date, and the CCEA pilot, is generally positive.

Tá CCEA ina bhall den Ghrúpa um Theangacha i mBunscoileanna, grúpa a bunaíodh le seachadadh chlár curaclaim teangacha s’agamsa a chur chun cinn. Leanfaidh CCEA ar aghaidh le treoirábhair a sholáthar, lena n-áirítear micreashuíomh idirlín le tacaíocht a thabhairt do bhunscoileanna i dtaca le teagasc na dteangacha.

CCEA is a member of the Primary Languages Group, set up to take forward the delivery of my curricular primary languages programme. CCEA will continue to provide guidance materials, including a primary languages microsite to support schools.

Departmental Electrical Equipment

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education the number of blackberry devices the Department has purchased since devolution. (AQW 8106/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ó cineachadh cumhacht, tá 30 gléas Blackberry ceannaithe ag Roinn s’agamsa.

Since devolution my Department has purchased 30 blackberry devices.

Nursery Places in Ballymagee Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Ballymagee Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8134/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in Kilmaine Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8135/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in Bloomfield Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Bloomfield Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8136/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in Central Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Central Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8137/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Sustainable Schools Policy

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education for an update on the development of a Sustainable Schools Policy. (AQW 8188/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá mé ag tabhairt na moltaí i leith Pholasaí um Scoileanna Inmharthana chun críche; soláthrófar iad don Choiste Oideachais gan mhoill, lena dtuairimí a fháil, agus foilseofar an polasaí ina dhiaidh sin.

I am finalising the proposals for a Sustainable Schools Policy which will be provided to the Education Committee very soon, for their views, after which the policy would be published.

Bangor Academy

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education if the new Bangor Academy building has been completed and signed over to the South Eastern Education and Library Board. (AQW 8218/08)

Ms C Ruane: Thug Príomhfheidhmeannach Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt le fios go bhfuair Acadamh agus Coláiste Séú Bliain Bheannchair lánseirbhís ar 30 Aibreán 2008 de réir an dáta a sonraíodh laistigh den chonradh.

The Chief Executive of the South-Eastern Education and Library Board that Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College achieved service availability on 30 April 2008 as per the day specified within the contract. The facility does not get "signed over" to the SEELB as the operator is contracted to provide facilities management services at the facility for the period of the contract.

Bangor Academy

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education for the date on which the PPP/PFI company was contracted to complete work at the new Bangor Academy school building; and the date on which work was actually completed. (AQW 8219/08)

Ms C Ruane: Thug Príomhfheidhmeannach Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt le fios go bhfuil an obair atá ar siúl ag Acadamh agus Coláiste Séú Bliain Bheannchair á déanamh ar bhonn céimnithe.

The Chief Executive of the South-Eastern Education and Library Board has advised that work at Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College, is on a phased basis. The main body of the school was contracted for service availability on 30 April 2008 which was achieved in accordance with the contract. The element of works which include demolition of the old Castle Campus and creation of parking and sports facilities is programmed for a target service availability date of October 2008.

Early Years Strategy

Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Education for an update on progress on the ‘0-6 Strategy’. (AQW 8226/08)

Ms C Ruane: Within the Department work has begun to formulate a new integrated early years 0 – 6 strategy which will bring Sure Start, pre-school and the home child care agendas together in a cohesive way to support the integration of service delivery. This 0 – 6 focus will ensure that there is a solid framework in place for early childhood to prepare for life at school whilst not formalising education for young children and recognising the health and wider benefits of early years interventions.

I láthair na huaire, tá an Roinn ag dréachtú na straitéise agus ag breithniú moltaí i gcomhar le páirtithe leasmhara, leis an earnáil oideachais ina hiomláine agus leis an Ghrúpa Idir-Rannach atá ag déanamh maoirseachta ar an Straitéis.

The Department is currently drafting the strategy and considering recommendations in association with stakeholders, the wider educational sector and the Inter-Departmental group overseeing the development of the Strategy. An Early Years Strategy will be put to the Education Committee in the coming months. It is too early to say what the outcomes of the strategy will be.

Nursery Places in the Groomsport Area

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available in the Groomsport area. (AQW 8239/08)

Ms C Ruane: There are 130 places in statutory nursery units attached to statutory primary schools within a 2 mile radius of Conlig. In addition, there are 34 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

There are 104 places in statutory nursery units attached to statutory primary schools within a 2 mile radius of Groomsport. In addition, there are 91 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

Tá gach ceann de na háiteanna thuasluaite lánmhaoinithe ag an Roinn.

All of the above-noted places are fully-funded by the Department.

Nursery Places in Rathmore Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Rathmore Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8240/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in Grange Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Grange Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8242/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in Kilcooley Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Kilcooley Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8243/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ballymagee Primary School, Central Primary School and Grange Primary School do not have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available for Kilmaine Primary School, Bloomfield Primary School and Rathmore Primary School.

There are 26 full-time places available for Kilcooley Primary School.

Tá na háiteanna ar fad thuas lánmhaoinithe.

All places above are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in the Conlig Area

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available in the Conlig area. (AQW 8245/08)

Ms C Ruane: There are 130 places in statutory nursery units attached to statutory primary schools within a 2 mile radius of Conlig. In addition, there are 34 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

There are 104 places in statutory nursery units attached to statutory primary schools within a 2 mile radius of Groomsport. In addition, there are 91 funded pre-school places in the voluntary/private sector.

Tá gach ceann de na háiteanna thuasluaite lánmhaoinithe ag an Roinn.

All of the above-noted places are fully-funded by the Department.

Physical Education in Schools

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education if she is satisfied that school children are being given the recommended two hours of physical education per week. (AQW 8252/08)

Ms C Ruane: Current guidance encourages schools to offer at least two hours of energetic physical activity in recognition of the importance a healthy, active lifestyle can have for our young people. This can include activities such as those delivered through Physical Education (PE) within the curriculum, extra-curricular activities, structured and unstructured play times, and a range of other activities.

The implementation of the revised curriculum is still at an early stage, and the ETI has not yet evaluated the delivery of PE in schools in this context. Early feedback from the Healthy Schools Initiative indicates an ongoing improvement in the placement and delivery of PE in the curriculum. The majority of the schools visited are embedding physical education and physical activity as part of a healthy, active school and healthy lifestyles for young people.

I place a very high importance on our young people having more opportunities to take part in physical activity and sport, especially in light of the rising levels of childhood obesity. That is why I have introduced my Curriculum Sports Programme, to give our youngest pupils more opportunities to develop their physical literacy skills through Gaelic games or soccer.

Faoi na scoileanna aonair atá sé réimse na n-imeachtaí spóirt a sholáthróidh siad a chinntiú agus tá mé sásta go bhfuil deis ag daltaí sult a bhaint as réimse leathan gníomhaíochta fisiciúla agus spórt ar scoil; tá go leor deiseanna taobh amuigh de scoil fosta a chuireann lena gcuid roghanna.

It remains a matter for individual schools to determine the range of physical activities they provide and I am satisfied that pupils have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of physical activity and sports in school, supplemented in many cases by opportunities outside school.

Area Based Planning

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education if area based planning will be in operation by 2010. (AQW 8253/08)

Ms C Ruane: Area-based planning covering pre-school, primary and post-primary sectors will inevitably take time to develop but I expect it to be in operation by 2010. The proposed new Education and Skills Authority would have a central role in producing such plans.

Tá tús curtha agam cheana le hobair ar phleanáil cheantarbhunaithe i dtaca le soláthar na hiar-bhunscolaíochta sa mhéid is gur bhunaigh mé Grúpaí Pleanála Ceantarbhunaithe agus go mbím ag díriú ar an Chreat Teidlíochta a sheachadadh. Táthar ag súil go dtabharfaidh an LárGhrúpa Pleanála tuairisc faoi mhí Feabhra 2009.

I have already initiated work on area planning of post-primary provision with the setting up of Area Planning Groups and focussing on the delivery of the Entitlement Framework.

Primary Languages Programme

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education if all tutors fully employed in the primary languages programme will be fully qualified teachers. (AQW 8254/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl cáilíocht mhúinteoireachta riachtanach do theagascóirí, ar an ábhar go bhfuil rannpháirtíocht an mhúinteora ranga ina gné thábhachtach den chlár. Beidh múinteoirí ag obair in éineacht le teagascóirí le ceachtanna teanga a theagasc; cinnteoidh sé sin ardchaighdeáin agus eispéireas foghlama fiúntach do dhaltaí.

A teaching qualification is not essential for tutors, since the participation of the classroom teacher is an important aspect of the programme. Teachers will be working alongside tutors in delivering language lessons, thus ensuring high standards and quality learning experiences for pupils.

However, I have always recognised that this programme provides opportunities for teachers looking for work to build up their experience and I am pleased to note that, of the 65 tutors appointed to the primary languages programme, 22 are fully qualified teachers, including 11 qualified teachers of Spanish and 3 qualified teachers of Irish.

Practising Educational Psychologists

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education how many practising educational psychologists there are in each Education and Library Board area. (AQW 8279/08)

Ms C Ruane: Dhíreoinn aird an Chomhalta ar an fhreagra a thug mé do AQW 5148/08, ceist a chuir Alasdair McDonnell síos ar an chlár; foilsíodh na sonraí sa Tuarascáil Oifigiúil ar 18 Aibreán 2008.

I would refer the Member to my reply to AQW 5148/08, tabled by Alasdair McDonnell, and published in the Official Report on 18 April 2008.

Ballymoney High School

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education for an update on the provision of a new build for Ballymoney High School. (AQW 8280/08)

Ms C Ruane: An Outline Business Case for a new build scheme for Ballymoney High School is currently with the Department for approval.

Faoi réir fhaomhadh an Cháis Ghnó, ba é an chéad chéim eile den tionscadal ná é a fhógairt don mhargadh.

Subject to the approval of the Business Case the next stage would be to advertise the project to the market.

Early Years Strategy

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education for an update on the publication of the Early Years Strategy, and the timescales involved. (AQW 8283/08)

Ms C Ruane: Within the Department work has begun to formulate a new integrated early years 0 – 6 strategy which will bring Sure Start, pre-school and the home child care agendas together in a cohesive way to support the integration of service delivery. This 0 – 6 focus will ensure that there is a solid framework in place for early childhood to prepare for life at school whilst not formalising education for young children and recognising the health and wider benefits of early years interventions.

I láthair na huaire, tá an Roinn ag dréachtú na straitéise agus ag breithniú moltaí i gcomhar le páirtithe leasmhara, leis an earnáil oideachais ina hiomláine agus leis an Ghrúpa Idir-Rannach atá ag déanamh maoirseachta ar an Straitéis.

The Department is currently drafting the strategy and considering recommendations in association with stakeholders, the wider educational sector and the Inter-Departmental group overseeing the development of the Strategy. An Early Years Strategy will be put to the Education Committee in the coming months. It is too early to say what the outcomes of the strategy will be.

Dundonald High School

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQO 3490/08, if a meeting has taken place between her Department’s building advisory branch and the South Eastern Education and Library Board, to assess the condition of the existing school buildings at Dundonald High School; and what was the outcome of any such meeting. (AQW 8295/08)

Ms C Ruane: A meeting between officials from the Department’s Building Branch, Building Advisory Branch and the South Eastern Education and Library Board took place on Thursday, 26 June 2008.

Tá mé ag déanamh socruithe ionas go gcuirfear ar an eolas thú maidir le toradh an chruinnithe in am is i dtráth.

I am arranging for you to be advised of the outcome of the meeting in due course.

Educational Skills Authority

Mr O’Dowd asked the Minister of Education what the financial implications are for frontline education services if there is a delay in the establishment of the Educational Skills Authority. (AQW 8305/08)

Ms C Ruane: I láthair na huaire, tá sé beartaithe go dtiocfaidh an tÚdarás um Oideachas agus Scileanna (ESA) i bhfeidhm ar 1 Aibreán 2009.

Currently it is planned that Education and Skills Authority (ESA) will come into operation on 1 April 2009. Any delay will have significant financial implications for frontline services across the education sector and also potentially in other public services. It would mean that it would not be possible to secure the significant efficiency improvements, which it is intended ESA will deliver, for reallocation to front line public services. The education budget is predicated on securing savings from ESA in the first two years of its operation of more than £21 million. If these cannot be secured then there will be an impact directly on our schools and children in terms of service delivery and provision. In addition there is the possibility of further pressure on the education budget if the new Libraries Authority is established in advance of ESA, leaving the existing authorities to cover fixed overheads from a smaller budget.

11 Plus Grades

Mr O’Dowd asked the Minister of Education for a breakdown, by percentage, of pupils’ 11-plus grades accepted by the following schools in the last 3 year academic years: (i) Belfast Royal Academy; (ii) Bloomfield Collegiate; (iii) Grosvenor Grammar; (iv) Hunterhouse College; (v) Methodist College; (vi) Royal Belfast Academical Institution; (vii) Strathearn School; (viii) Bangor Grammar; (ix) Down High, Downpatrick; (x) Friends’ School, Lisburn; (xi) Glenlola Collegiate; (xii) Regent House; (xiii) Sullivan Upper; (xiv) Wallace High, Lisburn; (xv) Antrim Grammar; (xvi) Ballyclare High; (xvii) Belfast High; (xviii) Cambridge House Grammar; (xix) Carrickfergus Grammar; (xx) Coleraine Academical Institution; (xxi) Dalriada School, Ballymoney; (xxii) Larne Grammar; (xxiii) Banbridge Academy; (xxiv) The Royal School, Armagh; (xxv) The Royal School, Dungannon; (xxvi) Collegiate Grammar, Enniskillen; (xxvii) Foyle and Londonderry College; (xxviii) Limavady Grammar; (xxix) Omagh Academy; and (xxx) Strabane Grammar. (AQW 8309/08)

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

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

School Name	Breakdown, by percentage, of pupils’ 11 plus grades accepted 2007/08
	A	B1	B2	C1	C2	D	Others	Boarders
(i) Belfast Royal Academy	63	13	12	4	2	2	4	-
(ii) Bloomfield Collegiate	32	7	29	26	2	4	0	-
(iii) Grosvenor Grammar	92	4	1	0	0	1	2	-
(iv) Hunterhouse College	22	21	29	24	3	1	0	-
(v) Methodist College	70	2	5	7	5	4	5	2
(vi) Royal Belfast Academical Institution	46	19	27	5	2	0	1	-
(vii) Strathearn School	58	21	11	3	3	1	3	-
(viii) Bangor Grammar	50	20	19	7	1	2	1	-
(ix) Down High, Downpatrick	79	9	8	2	1	0	1	-
(x) Friends’ School, Lisburn	96	0	0	0	0	0	4	-
(xi) Glenlola Collegiate	49	15	22	10	2	1	1	-
(xii) Regent House	90	8	1	0	0	0	1	-
(xiii) Sullivan Upper	88	9	1	0	0	0	2	-
(xiv) Wallace High, Lisburn	91	5	1	1	0	0	2	-
(xv) Antrim Grammar	52	13	18	13	3	0	1	-
(xvi) Ballyclare High	69	14	15	2	0	0	0	-
(xvii) Belfast High	69	18	9	1	1	1	1	-
(xviii) Cambridge House Grammar	18	10	15	23	19	13	2	-
(xix) Carrickfergus Grammar	65	16	14	4	1	0	0	-
(xx) Coleraine Academical Institution	25	7	16	13	15	21	3	-
(xxi) Dalriada School, Ballymoney	82	15	1	0	0	0	2	-
(xxii) Larne Grammar	50	9	14	11	14	0	2	-
(xxiii) Banbridge Academy	85	12	1	1	0	0	1	-
(xxiv) The Royal School, Armagh	47	12	15	11	8	7	0	-
(xxv) The Royal School Dungannon	43	16	12	9	11	8	1	-
(xxvi) Collegiate Grammar, Enniskillen	62	10	17	6	4	1	0	-
(xxvii) Foyle and Londonderry College	50	12	10	11	9	6	2	-
(xxviii) Limavady Grammar	56	12	13	12	5	2	0	-
(xxix) Omagh Academy	65	13	13	5	4	0	0	-
(xxx) Strabane Grammar	46	16	18	7	7	2	4	-

 

School Name	Breakdown, by percentage, of pupils’ 11 plus grades accepted 2006/07
	A	B1	B2	C1	C2	D	Others	Boarders
(i) Belfast Royal Academy	72	14	9	2	1	1	1	-
(ii) Bloomfield Collegiate	43	14	30	7	3	2	1	-
(iii) Grosvenor Grammar	91	7	0	0	0	0	2	-
(iv) Hunterhouse College	11	18	24	31	12	3	1	-
(v) Methodist College	91	3	1	0	0	0	2	3
(vi) Royal Belfast Academical Institution	38	20	32	5	4	0	1	-
(vii) Strathearn School	66	20	7	2	2	1	2	-
(viii) Bangor Grammar	58	15	16	7	2	2	0	-
(ix) Down High, Downpatrick	85	12	2	0	0	0	1	-
(x) Friends’ School, Lisburn	98	1	0	0	0	0	1	-
(xi) Glenlola Collegiate	48	18	20	12	1	1	0	-
(xii) Regent House	93	4	0	1	0	0	2	-
(xiii) Sullivan Upper	98	0	0	0	0	0	2	-
(xiv) Wallace High, Lisburn	83	13	3	0	0	0	1	-
(xv) Antrim Grammar	59	12	20	7	1	0	1	-
(xvi) Ballyclare High	77	17	4	0	0	0	2	-
(xvii) Belfast High	75	20	3	1	0	0	1	-
(xviii) Cambridge House Grammar	14	8	25	18	22	12	1	-
(xix) Carrickfergus Grammar	60	26	12	1	1	0	0	-
(xx) Coleraine Academical Institution	32	9	13	15	12	19	0	-
(xxi) Dalriada School, Ballymoney	67	13	6	9	2	0	3	-
(xxii) Larne Grammar	52	8	21	15	3	1	0	-
(xxiii) Banbridge Academy	93	4	1	0	0	0	2	-
(xxiv) The Royal School, Armagh	57	23	11	4	0	0	0	5
(xxv) The Royal School Dungannon	53	15	12	7	8	3	2	-
(xxvi) Collegiate Grammar, Enniskillen	61	13	14	11	0	0	1	-
(xxvii) Foyle and Londonderry College	45	9	15	12	11	7	1	-
(xxviii) Limavady Grammar	59	13	13	12	0	3	0	-
(xxix) Omagh Academy	78	21	0	0	0	0	1	-
(xxx) Strabane Grammar	63	20	13	4	0	0	0	-

 

School Name	Breakdown, by percentage, of pupils’ 11 plus grades accepted 2005/06
	A	B1	B2	C1	C2	D	Others	Boarders
(i) Belfast Royal Academy	73	13	8	1	2	1	2	-
(ii) Bloomfield Collegiate	45	21	23	7	1	2	1	-
(iii) Grosvenor Grammar	88	8	2	0	1	0	1	-
(iv) Hunterhouse College	17	29	25	22	6	1	0	-
(v) Methodist College	80	8	3	1	2	1	5	-
(vi) Royal Belfast Academical Institution	30	12	37	10	6	4	1	-
(vii) Strathearn School	72	15	10	2	0	0	1	-
(viii) Bangor Grammar	65	18	12	3	0	1	1	-
(ix) Down High, Downpatrick	81	16	1	0	0	0	2	-
(x) Friends’ School, Lisburn	93	1	1	0	0	0	5	-
(xi) Glenlola Collegiate	55	11	27	6	0	0	1	-
(xii) Regent House	82	15	1	0	0	0	2	-
(xiii) Sullivan Upper	86	11	1	0	0	0	2	-
(xiv) Wallace High, Lisburn	81	14	2	0	1	0	2	-
(xv) Antrim Grammar	49	19	13	8	9	0	2	-
(xvi) Ballyclare High	70	12	11	4	2	0	1	-
(xvii) Belfast High	73	13	13	0	0	0	1	-
(xviii) Cambridge House Grammar	19	21	22	24	7	5	2	-
(xix) Carrickfergus Grammar	71	21	6	0	0	1	1	-
(xx) Coleraine Academical Institution	42	10	20	13	8	6	1	-
(xxi) Dalriada School, Ballymoney	73	22	2	0	0	0	3	-
(xxii) Larne Grammar	50	13	17	12	4	0	4	-
(xxiii) Banbridge Academy	78	16	3	1	1	0	1	-
(xxiv) The Royal School, Armagh	52	18	17	5	0	1	3	4
(xxv) The Royal School Dungannon	58	21	13	3	2	0	3	-
(xxvi) Collegiate Grammar, Enniskillen	82	4	13	0	0	0	1	-
(xxvii) Foyle and Londonderry College	51	12	14	10	7	5	1	-
(xxviii) Limavady Grammar	59	15	9	12	2	2	1	-
(xxix) Omagh Academy	58	17	14	10	0	0	1	-
(xxx) Strabane Grammar	69	21	9	1	0	0	0	-

 

Nursery Places at Ballyholme Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Ballyholme Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8313/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag na scoileanna seo a leanas; dá bharr sin, níl aon áiteanna ar fáil: The following schools do not have nursery units; therefore there are no places available: Ballyholme Primary School;

Crawfordsburn Primary School;

Redburn Primary School

Holywood Primary School and

Glencraig Primary School.

Nursery Places at Crawfordsburn Primary School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Crawfordsburn Primary School. (AQW 8324/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag na scoileanna seo a leanas; dá bharr sin, níl aon áiteanna ar fáil: The following schools do not have nursery units; therefore there are no places available: Ballyholme Primary School;

Crawfordsburn Primary School;

Redburn Primary School

Holywood Primary School and

Glencraig Primary School.

Nursery Places at Redburn Primary School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Redburn Primary School. (AQW 8326/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag na scoileanna seo a leanas; dá bharr sin, níl aon áiteanna ar fáil: The following schools do not have nursery units; therefore there are no places available: Ballyholme Primary School;

Crawfordsburn Primary School;

Redburn Primary School

Holywood Primary School and

Glencraig Primary School.

Nursery Places at Holywood Primary School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Holywood Primary School. (AQW 8327/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag na scoileanna seo a leanas; dá bharr sin, níl aon áiteanna ar fáil: The following schools do not have nursery units; therefore there are no places available: Ballyholme Primary School;

Crawfordsburn Primary School;

Redburn Primary School

Holywood Primary School and

Glencraig Primary School.

Nursery Places at Glencraig Primary School

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Glencraig Primary School. (AQW 8328/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag na scoileanna seo a leanas; dá bharr sin, níl aon áiteanna ar fáil: The following schools do not have nursery units; therefore there are no places available: Ballyholme Primary School;

Crawfordsburn Primary School;

Redburn Primary School

Holywood Primary School and

Glencraig Primary School.

Area Planning Groups

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education if area planning groups will be in a position to report by the end of October 2008. (AQW 8336/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá sé beartaithe gurb é an toradh a bheas ar an chleachtadh pleanála cheantarbhunaithe i gcomhair iar-bhunscolaíochta ná cúig phlean cheantarbhunaithe, ag críochnú le plean réigiúnach agus cuirfidh na moltaí leis an phróiseas phleanála cheantarbhunaithe níos cuimsithí in am is i dtráth.

The outcome of the area based planning exercise for post primary education is intended to be five area plans, feeding into a regional plan and the recommendations will feed into the fuller area based planning process in due course. The Department will seek an interim report by the end of October and recommendations from the area groups by December 2008 and from the central group by February 2009.

Sustainable Schools Policy

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education what discussion she has had with the teachers’ union about the Sustainable Schools Policy. (AQW 8337/08)

Ms C Ruane: Teachers’ unions were included in the consultation exercise on the draft policy on Sustainable Schools which was issued by the previous administration last year. Responses to the consultation were received from five teachers’ unions.

Bhí deis agam fosta an tsaincheist a phlé ag cruinnithe le NASUWT ar 31 Bealtaine 2007 agus le ICTU (Comhdháil na gCeardchumann) ar 28 Samhain 2007.

I also had the opportunity to discuss the issue at meetings with the NASUWT on 31 May 2007 and with the ICTU (Irish Congress of Trade Unions) on 28 November 2007.

Seymour Hill Primary School in Belfast

Mr Poots asked the Minister of Education what plans her Department has to enhance the educational facilities in the Seymour Hill area of Dunmurry. (AQW 8353/08)

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 (SEELB) has undertaken a strategic review of provision of the Dunmurry area in which Seymour Hill Primary School is located.

Cé go n-admhaíonn BOLOD go mb’fhéidir go bhfuil gá le deireadh a chur le cóiríocht nach bhfuil ag an chaighdeán chuí agus roinnt bunscoileanna áitiúla sa cheantar seo a chóiriú, níor chuir siad aon mholtaí daingne faoi bhráid na Roinne go dtí seo.

Whilst the SEELB has identified the potential need for some removal of sub-standard accommodation and refurbishment of local primary schools in this area they have not as yet approached the Department with any firm proposals.

Nursery Places in Clandeboye Road Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for Clandeboye Road Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8362/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag Bunscoil Chlann Aodha Buí ná ag Bunscoil Naomh Comgall.

Neither Clandeboye Road Primary School nor St Comgall’s Primary School have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available at St Malachy’s Primary School, all of which are fully-funded.

Costello Report on Post-Primary Education

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education whether, given her declared ideas on post primary education, the Costello report on post-primary education still has relevance and, if so, (i) whether her Department has undertaken any infrastructural audit of current educational facilities outside the Greater Belfast area; (ii) what the audit has indicated in relation to the estimated average hours per week that pupils and teachers will spend travelling between schools; (iii) what the estimated costs are per annum of providing transport and supervisory support over the 10 years 2010 -2020; and (iv) when the audit will be made public. (AQW 8379/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ghlac réamhtheachtaí s’agamsa, Jane Kennedy MP, go hiomlán le Tuarascáil Costello agus rinneadh na moltaí sin, a bhfuil clúdach reachtúil de dhíth orthu, a ionchorprú isteach san Ordú Oideachais 2006. Tá obair ar siúl ar bhonn leanúnach le roinnt mhaith de na moltaí sin a chur i bhfeidhm, mar shampla an Creat Teidlíochta.

The Costello Report was accepted in full by my predecessor, Jane Kennedy MP and those recommendations requiring legislative cover were incorporated into the Education Order 2006. Work has been ongoing to implement many of these such as the Entitlement Framework.

I have initiated an area based planning exercise for Post Primary education to look at the issues surrounding the future delivery of post-primary provision and a fuller picture will become clearer when the groups report back later this year. Implications for transport, supervisory and other related costs can only be determined when the full extent of the proposals is known.

E-Learning and Distance Learning in Post-Primary Schools

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education what provision she has put in place for structured e-learning and distance learning in relation to post-primary education and if she will publish these details. (AQW 8380/08)

Ms C Ruane: I recognise the potential of e-learning to broaden the curricular offer to pupils particularly from age 14 onwards. In support of the implementation of the Entitlement Framework, my Department sponsored places for over 50 teachers on the Online Learning for Teachers and Educators (OLTE) course in 2007/08, through the Regional Training Unit (RTU). The training will ensure that there is the appropriate level of understanding and expertise in the school system to maximise the use of new and existing resources and most importantly that e-learning has a positive impact on young people’s education. Furthermore, a coordinated programme of online learning projects will emerge from the OLTE training which will allow those teachers to explore a range of areas for development and the findings will be disseminated across the system.

Tá an Roinn ag obair leis an Chigireacht Oideachais agus Oiliúna fosta le cuid den obair atá déanta ag scoileanna sa réimse seo cheana a mheas, d’fhonn dea-chleachtas a shainaithint agus a scaipeadh.

The Department is also working with the Education and Training Inspectorate to evaluate some of the work which schools have already taken forward in this area, with a view to identifying and disseminating good practice.

Primary Education Figures

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education how many children are in primary education (i) in total; and (ii) broken down by (a) state sector schools; (b) Catholic maintained schools; (c) integrated schools; and (d) Irish language schools; and (iii) what is the average annual cost per pupil in each of these sectors. (AQW 8381/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh i gcodanna (i) agus (ii) leagtha amach thíos: The information requested in parts (i) and (ii) is detailed below:

Primary¹ school pupils by management type – 2007/08

Management type	No. of pupils
Controlled2	78,108
Catholic maintained3	76,480
Other4	2,529
Irish medium5 - Other maintained	1,902
Controlled integrated	2,259
Grant maintained integrated	5,361
Total	166,639

 

Source: school census.

1. Note: Figures include nursery, reception and year 1 – 7 classes.

2. Includes one Irish Medium school with an enrolment of 71 pupils.

3. Includes one Irish Medium school with an enrolment of 159 pupils.

4. The Other category includes preparatory departments of voluntary grammar schools and ‘other maintained’ non Irish medium schools.

5. Excludes one Irish Medium Controlled school and one Irish Medium Catholic Maintained school.

(iii) Costs per pupil in the format requested are not available. Budget only figures for identified sectors have been provided.

Primary School Common Funding Formula (CFF) Per Capitas - 2008/09

Primary Sector	Average Per Capita for each sector (£)
Controlled	2,600
Catholic Maintained	2,669
Other Maintained	2,816
Irish-medium - Other Maintained	3,035
Controlled Integrated	2,716
Grant Maintained Integrated	2,793
Overall	2,646

 

Notes:

1. Figures represent average delegated BUDGET per pupil for each sector under the Common Funding Formula allocations 2008/09 based on pupils as recorded against the school Census 2007-08

2. Variations in average per pupil figures may reflect relatively smaller school sectors, and in the case of Grant Maintained Integrated schools, funding includes additional delegated resources for costs and services otherwise met by Education & Library Boards for their schools.

3. All funding figures reflect Full Time Equivalent (FTE) pupils and include Nursery Class pupils - the costs for which cannot be disaggregated from the overall budgets delegated to primary schools with Nursery class units.

4. Figures exclude Special Schools, and the statemented costs of pupils in schools - met separately from centre funds.

Violence in Schools

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 6237/08, for a breakdown of the figures provided by parliamentary constituency. (AQW 8383/08)

Ms C Ruane: Mar a léirigh mé sa fhreagra a thug mé cheana, ní bhailíonn an Roinn Oideachais an t-eolas sonraithe a iarradh.

As noted in my previous answer, the Department of Education does not collect the specific information requested.

However, statistics on the reasons for suspension and expulsion are gathered each school year from Education and Library Boards. The table below provides the number of suspensions for physical attacks on staff by pupils in the 2006/07 school year. These statistics relate to the number of occasions where pupils were suspended and not the number of pupils suspended.

Constituency	Number of occasions where pupils were suspended for physical attacks on school staff (Key stage 1 and 2)	Number of occasions where pupils were suspended for physical attacks on school staff (Key stage 3 and 4)
Belfast East	14	#
Belfast North	*	17
Belfast South	*	13
Belfast West	*	21
East Antrim	*	17
East Derry	*	15
Fermanagh and South Tyrone	*	11
Foyle	*	32
Lagan Valley	*	7
Mid Ulster	*	*
Newry And Armagh	0	14
North Antrim	*	10
North Down	*	*
South Antrim	6	*
South Down	*	8
Upper Bann	*	7
West Tyrone	13	7
Total	70	196

 

Notes:

* relates to fewer than 5 cases.

# means figure >= 5 has been treated under rules of disclosure.

Information collected on expulsions cannot be broken down into constituency area.

Similar statistics for 2007/08 will not be collected until the end of the current school year.

Integrated Places in Primary and Post-Primary Schools

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education further to her answer to AQW 7233/08, the number of integrated places at (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary, schools for each academic year since 1997/1998, in each Education and Library Board area. (AQW 8391/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Department only holds records for the school years 2002/03 – 2007/08.

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

The information requested is detailed in the attached tables.

(i) INTEGRATED PRIMARY SCHOOLS

	Boards	Approved Integrated Places (Year 1)	Overall Number of Integrated Places
2002/03	BELB	123	859
	WELB	115	847
	NEELB	209	1452
	SEELB	284	1910
	SELB	155	1088
	Total	886	6156
2003/04	BELB	123	859
	WELB	115	847
	NEELB	213	1502
	SEELB	299	1958
	SELB	155	1085
	Total	905	906
2004/05	BELB	123	859
	WELB	115	850
	NEELB	338	2436
	SEELB	307	2105
	SELB	199	1166
	Total	1082	7416
2005/06	BELB	123	859
	WELB	130	908
	NEELB	339	2464
	SEELB	357	2436
	SELB	200	1208
	Total	1149	7875
2006/07	BELB	123	859
	WELB	147	1029
	NEELB	343	2470
	SEELB	364	2496
	SELB	203	1258
	Total	1180	8112
2007/08	BELB	123	859
	WELB	147	1055
	NEELB	343	2480
	SEELB	364	2500
	SELB	203	1270
	Total	1180	8164

 

(ii) INTEGRATED POST-PRIMARY SCHOOLS

	Boards	Approved Integrated Places (Year 8)	Overall Number of Integrated Places
2002/03	BELB	250	1500
	WELB	330	1830
	NEELB	354	1710
	SEELB	645	3430
	SELB	260	1410
	Total	1839	9880
2003/04	BELB	250	1500
	WELB	330	1830
	NEELB	350	1810
	SEELB	640	3540
	SELB	260	1410
	Total	1830	906
2004/05	BELB	250	1500
	WELB	330	1830
	NEELB	360	1910
	SEELB	670	3620
	SELB	320	1510
	Total	1930	10370
2005/06	BELB	270	1540
	WELB	300	1800
	NEELB	360	2010
	SEELB	670	3660
	SELB	320	1570
	Total	1920	10580
2006/07	BELB	270	1560
	WELB	300	1780
	NEELB	360	2100
	SEELB	665	3700
	SELB	320	1630
	Total	1915	10770
2007/08	BELB	270	1590
	WELB	300	1780
	NEELB	360	2160
	SEELB	665	3740
	SELB	320	1690
	Total	1915	10960

 

Young People with Learning Disabilities

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Education what progress has been made in meeting the needs of young people with learning disabilities during the period of transition from schooling to the workforce. (AQW 8404/08)

Ms C Ruane: I am advised by the Chief Executives of the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) that all ELBs have made permanent appointments to the post of Education Transition Co-ordinators to strengthen the transition planning process in school and provide a co-ordinated approach with other statutory agencies and advice givers. In addition life skills training programmes to improve self-help and independent living are being delivered in schools.

Chumasaigh BOL níos mó ná 370 dalta le páirt a ghlacadh i gcláir oiliúna um scileanna saoil sa bhliain 2006/07, agus lean na cláir sin ar aghaidh sa bhliain 2007/08.

ELBs enabled over 370 pupils to participate in life skills training programmes in 2006/07, and these programmes continued in 2007/08. The programmes included a wide variety of school based programmes for independent living and link courses with local FE colleges. The school based programmes included practical work skills. Other programmes included learning new life skills in catering and woodwork which has raised pupils’ self-esteem and equipped them with skills which are easily transferred from school to FE to work placements.

From 2005/06 to the current financial year, DE has provided the ELBs with £1.460m to improve the transitions planning process as outlined above. A further £100k per annum was secured from the Children and Young People Funding Package in 2006/07 and 2007/08 to further enhance the life skills training.

Nursery Places in St Comgall’s Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for St Comgalls Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8412/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag Bunscoil Chlann Aodha Buí ná ag Bunscoil Naomh Comgall.

Neither Clandeboye Road Primary School nor St Comgall’s Primary School have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available at St Malachy’s Primary School, all of which are fully-funded.

Nursery Places in St Malachy’s Primary School in Bangor

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many (i) fully-funded; and (ii) part-funded, nursery places are available for St Malachy’s Primary School, Bangor. (AQW 8413/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aonaid naíscolaíochta ag Bunscoil Chlann Aodha Buí ná ag Bunscoil Naomh Comgall.

Neither Clandeboye Road Primary School nor St Comgall’s Primary School have nursery units.

There are 52 part-time places available at St Malachy’s Primary School, all of which are fully-funded.

Anti-Bullying Policies in Schools

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education what requirement there is on schools to have in place anti-bullying policies specifically to deal with homophobic bullying. (AQW 8426/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá ceangal dlí ar gach scoil bearta bheith acu le gach cineál bulaíochta idir daltaí a chosc.

All schools are required by law to have measures in place to prevent all forms of bullying among pupils.

The Department’s publication ‘Pastoral Care in Schools: Promoting Positive Behaviour’ offers detailed guidance, practical initiatives and case studies to support schools to tackle bullying. However, the detail of each school’s policy and their approach to tackling bullying of any type is a matter for each school to determine in consultation with pupils and parents.

Anti-Bullying Policies in Schools

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education what training is given to teachers to deal with homophobic bullying. (AQW 8427/08)

Ms C Ruane: In-service teacher training is provided by each of the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) and I understand that anti-bullying training focuses on the needs of all children and young people and is not specific to homophobic bullying. The aim of the training is to encourage and facilitate a whole-school approach to the development of an anti-bullying culture.

Training is followed up with school-based advice from ELB staff and on-going telephone guidance and support in relation to specific anti-bullying issues and on the content of a school’s anti-bullying policy. Advice on preventative strategies including Positive Behaviour Management, Circle Time, training of ancillary staff and awareness raising sessions for parents is also available to schools.

I mbliana, d’éascaigh an Grúpa Frithbhulaíochta Idir-Bhord, a bhfuil dluthcheangail aige leis an Fhóram áitiúil Frithbhulaíochta, clár oiliúna frithbhulaíochta do mhúinteoirí a fhorbairt lena cinntiú go mbeadh comhsheasmhacht ann sa chur chuige ar fud na Sé Contae.

This year the Inter-Board Anti-bullying Group, which has close links with the local Anti-Bullying Forum, facilitated the development of an anti-bullying teacher training programme to ensure consistency of approach across the North.

Computer Equipment and Software in Schools

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education what investigations she has undertaken into the use of free and open source software instead of expensive proprietary products in schools; and the estimated potential savings to her Department this would provide. (AQW 8458/08)

Ms C Ruane: Soláthraíonn an tseirbhís Seomra Ranga 2000 (C2K) trealamh ríomhaireachta do gach scoil dheontaschúnta mar aon le gréasán inmheánach agus ceangal le gréasán ar fud thuaisceart na hÉireann le rochtain ar an idirlíon agus ríomhphost.

The Classroom 2000 (C2k) service provides every grant-aided school here with computer equipment, an internal network and a link to a north of Ireland-wide network with access to the internet and e-mail. Schools have access to curricular software on their internal networks and through Learning NI, C2k’s on-line virtual learning environment. The service is managed by the suppliers of the equipment and connectivity, so that schools and teachers do not have to concern themselves with maintenance and support issues.

C2k is a Public Private Partnership, funded by the Department through the Western Education and Library Board. The 5-year contracts which together make up the service are procured according to EU Procurement Regulations through a European-wide competitive procurement process. The result of the process is that the design risk lies with the private sector bidders for the contracts. Since invitations to tender do not specify the nature of the software, it is up to bidders to assemble the most economical solutions, and in doing so they may choose to offer proprietary or open source products, or a combination of both.

Departmental Visits to North Down

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education how many visits she made to North Down constituency in her first year of office. (AQW 8460/08)

Ms C Ruane: Le linn mo chéad bhliana mar Aire Oideachais, thug mé trí chuairt ar thoghcheantar Thuaisceart an Dúin.

In my first year of office, I made 3 visits to North Down constituency.

Employment and Learning

Belfast Metropolitan College

Mr Newton asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what is the projected total cost of the Belfast Metropolitan College new educational campus being constructed at the Titanic Quarter, Belfast. (AQW 8190/08)

The Minister for Employment and Learning (Sir Reg Empey): The Belfast Metropolitan College facility at Titanic Quarter is being developed through a design, build, finance and operate Public Private Partnership arrangement. Under this arrangement the private sector operator provides the service, in this case for twenty five years, and is funded for the service by way of an annual unitary payment. Negotiations are well advanced but the final unitary payment has not yet been agreed and has therefore to be treated as commercial in confidence at this stage. It is anticipated the contract will be signed in August 2008.

University Places in Northern Ireland

Dr Farry asked the Minister for Employment and Learning how many university places per capita there are in Northern Ireland, compared to (i) England; (ii) Scotland; (iii) Wales; and (iv) the Republic of Ireland. (AQW 8241/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The number of full – time undergraduate enrolments at higher education institutions in 2006/07 per thousand of population aged 18 to 24 is as follows.

	Population aged 18 to 24 (thousands)Note 1	Full-time Undergraduate enrolments in 2006/07Note 2	Full – time Undergraduate enrolments per thousand of population aged 18 to 24
Northern Ireland	179.6	30,720	171
England	4,706.3	985,810	209
Scotland	473.7	126,115	266
Wales	278.5	66,005	237
Republic of Ireland	461.1	62,991	137

 

Notes:

1 Office for National Statistics Mid-2006 Population Estimates
Central Statistics Office Ireland Population by Age 2006

2 Higher Education Statistics Agency, Statistical First Release 10 January 2008
Higher Education Authority

It is important to note that the full-time undergraduate enrolment figures quoted above in respect of Northern Ireland reflect enrolments at Northern Ireland higher education institutions only. In 2006/07 some 30% of Northern Ireland domiciled undergraduates chose to study outside Northern Ireland and these students will be reflected in the enrolment figures for the region in which their institution is situated.

The number of full-time undergraduate places at the Northern Ireland universities is subject to a cap, known as the Maximum Student Number Cap (MaSN), as a means of controlling the cost to Government of Higher Education. The cap does not apply to full-time undergraduates from outside the European Union (who pay fees which are based on recovery of full - costs), to part-time undergraduates or to post-graduate students.

In 2005, my Department issued a position paper to inform debate on the optimum number of full-time undergraduate places in Northern Ireland and invited comment from interested parties. The exercise did not provide compelling evidence that the policy on MaSN should be changed when considered against other competing demands.

The MaSN is often cited as a reason for students choosing to study outside Northern Ireland resulting in a "brain drain" effect, however research indicates that the reasons underlying this are much more complex. On 30 June 2008, my Department published a study led by Professor Bob Osborne, University of Ulster, which indicates that students, rather than being reluctant leavers, in fact migrate for reasons which are predominantly positive. The report indicates that students are most heavily influenced by their desire to go to the best place for their chosen course, rather than a strong desire to leave Northern Ireland. These and other research findings are welcome in contributing to the evidence base for future policy decisions.

I am committed to keeping the MaSN under review and my Department continues to engage with the universities on options such as targeted expansion in areas of strategic importance to the economy, within the context of the Comprehensive Spending Review outcome for Higher Education

English as a Second Language

Mr Simpson asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what financial support his Department has given towards English classes for non-English speakers in each of the last 3 years. (AQW 8335/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Expenditure, funded by the Department for Employment and Learning, on English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses in Further Education colleges in each of the last 3 years for which validated data is available, was as follows:

2006/07	£1,469,297
2005/06	£865,059
2004/05	£691,628

 

Funding was also available within the New Deal programmes. However, it is not possible to identify this funding separately.

North West Regional College

Mr McCartney asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what action he is taking to intervene in the dispute over lecturers’ pay, following recent developments at the North West Regional College, which could lead to the suspension of lecturers without pay. (AQW 8352/08)

Sir Reg Empey: This dispute is a matter between the college employers, the FE lecturers, and their unions. As such my Department is not in a position to intervene.

I am pleased to note, however, that agreement has been reached by Further Education college employers and the University & College Union (UCU) on an immediate suspension of industrial action by college lecturers and the proposed action, by college employers, against staff who are not fulfilling contractual obligations as a result of industrial action.

The suspension will last until December 2008 to allow employers and unions to agree a pay deal for 2008/09, and to address longer term pay and conditions issues with the assistance of the Labour Relations Agency.

Departmental Underspend

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps his Department is taking to ensure that it does not continue to underspend its budget. (AQW 8376/08)

Sir Reg Empey: I take very seriously my responsibility to manage our finances efficiently and effectively but this underspend has to be seen in the context of some significant programmes where the demand for resources is difficult to predict. These include Student Finance, Training for Success and New Deal.

The specific action I am taking to address this issue includes: Reviewing the forecasting models used for these three specific programmes;

Reviewing the Estimates structure for my Department to establish whether it remains fit for purpose or could be improved; and

Examining internal financial management and monitoring procedures to implement a more risk based approach to balancing the risks of underspends and excess votes.

Training for Success

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what measures he has taken to ensure the views and concerns of people with learning disabilities are reflected in the design, delivery and evaluation of mainstream departmental programmes including, but not limited to, Training for Success. (AQW 8400/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The Department for Employment and Learning meets its obligations under Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998) to consult with named disability organisations when required. A working group, that includes representation from learning disability organisations, has been formed to carry out a review of the needs of people with disabilities in Training for Success. Consultation included young people with learning disabilities. A wide range of other engagements have taken place that involved people with disabilities, including learning disabilities. These include the Disablement Advisory Service ‘My Job, My Support’ consultation workshops for over 100 people with learning disabilities during the development of Workable (NI) and direct contact with students with learning disabilities during the drafting of Special Educational Needs and Disability Order (NI) 2005.

Young People with Learning Disabilities

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what progress has been made in meeting the needs of young people with learning disabilities during the period of transition from schooling to the workforce. (AQW 8406/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Following the Report of the Transitions Inter-Departmental working group in February 2006, my Department has taken a range of actions to address the needs of young people with learning disabilities.

The Department’s Careers Service has been restructured and a number of Careers Advisers have been specifically trained to work with clients who have Statements of Special Educational Need. In addition all Careers Advisers are being provided with basic training in this area. Careers Advisers are invited to attend Transition Plan Meetings of Year 10 pupils and subsequent Annual reviews. This meeting assists young people and their parents make informed decisions about all the options available on leaving school.

The Department has established a Disability Working Group to carry out a review, focused on the needs of people with disabilities in the context of its Training for Success provision. The Group consulted with a range of stakeholders and is due to report at the end of June.

In co-operation with the Education and Training Inspectorate and the Association of Northern Ireland Colleges, the Department, is currently undertaking a review of the nature and extent of special needs provision throughout the Further Education (FE) Sector, to determine how this provision might be improved.

My Department has also provided a further £1.5 million during 2007/08, to assist Further Education Colleges with the additional costs of delivering discrete provision for students unable to access mainstream courses.

My Department’s Disablement Advisory Service (DAS) also provides a range of programme support to help people with disabilities, including young people with learning disabilities, find suitable employment e.g. Access to Work (NI), Job Introduction Scheme (JIS), New Deal for Disabled People (NDDP) and the Workable (NI) programme.

Departmental Response to Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what assessment he has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty, on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action he has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8453/08)

Sir Reg Empey: No direct assessment has been made of the impact of fuel costs or fuel duty, although this will be kept under review as part of the Department’s ongoing financial management regime. My Department is seeking to make sure that it continues to use energy efficiently in line with broader Northern Ireland Civil Service policy.

The educational institutions for which my Department has responsibility are either incorporated bodies or autonomous organisations. As such they are responsible for managing all aspects of their business, including energy usage, within the resources made available to them by the Department and any additional income they may earn directly from other sources. They are expected to operate in a manner which is both sustainable and energy efficient and I have no plans to provide additional resources at this time.

Departmental Visits to Constituencies

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Employment and Learning how many visits he made to North Down constituency in his first year of office. (AQW 8461/08)

Sir Reg Empey: During the period 8th May 2007 to 8th May 2008, in my capacity as Minister for Employment and Learning I attended three engagements in the Borough of North Down.

Peace III Applications

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what plans he has to match fund (i) community groups; and (ii) the women’s sector, for Peace III applications. (AQW 8550/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The Department for Employment and Learning is not an Accountable Department for any of the expenditure within the Peace III Programme and hence has no plans to provide match funding to any projects within Peace III.

North West Regional College

Mr Bresland asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what plans he has to replace the existing building at the Strabane Campus of the North West Regional College. (AQW 8602/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The former North West Institute had submitted proposals for new build and refurbishment of its accommodation at a number of campuses, including a new build at its Strabane campus.

Following the merger of the Institute with Limavady College, on 1 August 2007, the newly appointed North West Regional College’s Senior Management Team and Governing Body are reviewing these proposals, which were submitted by their predecessors. Further decisions will be made when the College has updated its Estates Strategy, the objective of which is to clarify accommodation needs across all campuses.

Suspension of College Lecturers

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what assessment he made of the threat by colleges to suspend lecturers without salary for an indefinite period during the recent lecturers’ dispute. (AQW 8681/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Disciplinary action in Further Education (FE) Colleges is solely a matter for the college employers.

However, I am pleased to note that, following discussions, the University & College Union (UCU) has agreed an immediate suspension of industrial action by college lecturers and college employers have halted proposed disciplinary proceedings against those members of staff who were not fulfilling their contractual obligations as a result of that industrial action.

Belfast Metropolitan College

Ms J McCann asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if the Belfast Metropolitan College will be running the Learner Access Engagement Strategy; and if not, to where the funding for this strategy will now be allocated. (AQW 8689/08)

Sir Reg Empey: I can confirm that Belfast Metropolitan College will participate in the Learner Access and Engagement Pilot Programme.

Local Postal Services’ Report

Mr Dallat asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what consideration has been given and what progress has been made by his Department to utilise the Post Office as a source, agency or outlet for the delivery of its services as outlined in the May 2008 report of the Assembly’s Ad Hoc Committee, ‘Report of the Committee’s Consideration of, and Proposals for, Partnership that could Enhance the Economic Case for Viable Local Postal Services’. (AQW 8693/08)

Sir Reg Empey: The Ad Hoc Committee on Local Postal Services’ Report made a number of recommendations to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) concerning the future of Postal Services and the Post Office network. Junior Minister Donaldson and Junior Minister Kelly wrote to Executive Ministers on 21 April asking them to consider whether any further public services could be delivered through post offices.

My Department has been unable to identify any services which could be delivered through Post Offices. It will, however, continue to keep this matter under review.

Enterprise, Trade and Investment

Funding for Signature Projects

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (i) how much money has been provided so far to each of the following signature projects: (a) the Mournes; (b) Causeway Coast; (c) Walls of Derry/Londonderry; (d) Titanic Centre; and (e) Armagh Cathedral Trail; and (ii) how much money is projected to be delivered to each of these signature projects in 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. (AQW 7993/08)

The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Mrs A Foster): The breakdown of investment to date for each Signature Project is detailed in the table below.

In the Programme for Government, £60million has been allocated to the five signature projects for the period 2008 -2011. Financial approval for specific projects has not yet been determined and discussions are ongoing with project promoters.

Signature Project:	Investment to date:
The Mournes	£250,000
The Causeway Coast & Glens Giant’s Causeway Visitor Facilities	£1,025,905 £1,470,399
The Walled City	£3,994,789
Titanic Centre	£58,700
St. Patrick’s & Christian Heritage	£313,774
Total	£7,113,567

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 8064/08)

Mrs A Foster: The total cost incurred by the Department, including its *NDPBs, on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years is detailed in the table below.

	Total cost incurred (£)
2003/04	43,644
2004/05	57,493
2005/06	57,052
2006/07	34,523
2007/08	42,881

 

The away days/team building exercises covered a variety of subjects but most were related to organisational and staff development.

* DETI NDPBs: Invest NI; NI Tourist Board; Health & Safety Executive NI; General Consumer Council NI

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many away days and team-building exercises have been organised by her Department for departmental staff in each of the last five years. (AQW 8066/08)

Mrs A Foster: The amount of away days and team-building exercises that have been organised by the Department for departmental staff, and its * NDPBs, in each of the last five years, are detailed in the table below.

	Amount of away days and team-building exercises
2003/04	26
2004/05	43
2005/06	38
2006/07	21
2007/08	27

 

The away days/team building exercises covered a variety of subjects but most were related to organisational and staff development.

* DETI NDPBs: Invest NI; NI Tourist Board; Health & Safety Executive NI; General Consumer Council NI

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years. (AQW 8068/08)

Mrs A Foster: The amount of hours that have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years, are detailed in the table below.

	Amount of hours
2003/04	8,983
2004/05	7,047
2005/06	7,662
2006/07	2,865
2007/08	4,518

 

The away days/team building exercises covered a variety of subjects but most were related to organisational and staff development.

Invest NI Office Space

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what office space Invest NI is currently leasing in the North Antrim constituency. (AQW 8330/08)

Mrs A Foster: In the North Antrim Constituency Invest NI leases office space at one location, Mill Street in Ballymena. The office space leased by Invest NI in this property is occupied by Invest NI’s North Eastern Regional Office on the basis of a 15 year lease, effective from September 2004.

In the interests of clarity, information on all the property Invest NI pays or makes contribution to rental on, within Northern Ireland’s Parliamentary Constituencies, can be found in the answer to AQW 7988 08.

Invest NI Office Space

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how much has been paid to date on contracts for vacant office space held by Invest NI in the North Antrim constituency. (AQW 8331/08)

Mrs A Foster: Invest NI does not lease any vacant office space in the North Antrim constituency.

In the interests of clarity, information on all the property Invest NI pays or makes contribution to rental on, within Northern Ireland’s Parliamentary Constituencies, can be found in the answer to AQW 7988 08.

Invest NI Office Space

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if any of the office space leased by Invest NI in the North Antrim constituency is vacant; if so, for how long and at which locations; and to detail (i) the length of each contract; and (ii) for how long each contract has been in place. (AQW 8332/08)

Mrs A Foster: None of the office space leased by Invest NI in the North Antrim constituency is vacant. The only office space leased by Invest NI in the constituency is at Mill Street, Ballymena, and is occupied by Invest NI’s North Eastern Regional Office.

In the interests of clarity, information on all the property Invest NI pays or makes contribution to rental on, within Northern Ireland’s Parliamentary Constituencies, can be found in the answer to AQW 7988 08

Invest NI Office Space

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if any of the office space being leased by Invest NI in the North Antrim constituency is currently occupied by Invest NI client companies; and if so at which locations. (AQW 8333/08)

Mrs A Foster: In the North Antrim Constituency Invest NI leases office space at one location, Mill Street in Ballymena. The office space leased by Invest NI in this property is occupied by Invest NI’s North Eastern Regional Office. Within the constituency Invest NI has a land holding of c100 acres of which c35 remain available to client companies with economic development projects. Figures are correct as at 31 March 2008.

In the interests of clarity, information on all the property Invest NI pays or makes contribution to rental on, within Northern Ireland’s Parliamentary Constituencies, can be found in the answer to AQW 7988 08.

Invest NI ‘Go For It’ Scheme

Mr Bresland asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many businesses have started up with assistance from Invest NI under the ‘Go For It’ scheme, in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency. (AQW 8348/08)

Mrs A Foster: ‘Go for It’ is a marketing campaign which seeks to boost levels of entrepreneurial activity and raise the standing of Northern Ireland in the international business start-up league. As such, it is not a vehicle through which businesses are directly assisted to start-up.

The volume start-up market in Northern Ireland is served by the Start-a-Business Programme (SABp). SABp has been very successful in supporting many local businesses to start up. The figures below indicate business start ups, in each of the last 3 years, under SABp, broken down by parliamentary constituency:

START UPS ASSISTED UNDER THE START A BUSINESS PROGRAMME BY PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY

TIME PERIOD: 2005/06 TO 2007/08

Pca	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08	Total
Belfast East	85	71	108	264
Belfast North	114	74	109	297
Belfast South	124	115	115	354
Belfast West	134	118	133	385
East Antrim	159	168	152	479
East Londonderry	196	179	236	611
Fermanagh And South Tyrone	292	300	328	920
Foyle	250	221	275	746
Lagan Valley	165	153	138	456
Mid Ulster	279	229	271	779
Newry And Armagh	225	184	222	631
North Antrim	180	204	243	627
North Down	146	111	91	348
South Antrim	157	139	127	423
South Down	300	182	231	713
Strangford	200	156	154	510
Upper Bann	229	137	177	543
West Tyrone	192	197	238	627
Total	3,427	2,938	3,348	9,713

 

Note

1. Figures for 2007/08 are Provisional and may be Subject to Amendment

Departmental Response to Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what assessment she has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action she has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8454/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment, including its *NDPBs, spent approximately £474K on various fuels in the financial year 2007/08. It is currently estimated that departmental expenditure on fuels will increase by approximately 25% to £592k in this financial year.

DETI’s targeted efficiencies are not impacted by the increase in fuel costs and monitoring systems are in place to ensure their delivery.

The Department continues to work closely with the Department of Finance and Personnel, Energy Conservation Unit and other agencies to minimise its energy consumption. Actions taken to mitigate increasing energy costs include improving the efficiency of building heating systems, installation of intelligent lighting controls and the replacement of electrical appliances with fewer more energy efficient models.

* DETI NDPBs: Invest NI; NI Tourist Board; Health & Safety Executive NI; General Consumer Council NI

Derry/Londonderry Lighting Strategy

Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the 2007 lighting strategy for the city of Derry/Londonderry. (AQW 8525/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Lighting Strategy for the Walled City of Derry/Londonderry was completed in February 2007. An implementation plan is being developed for the lighting of the City Walls, Craigavon Bridge and other key buildings.

Women’s Tec in North Belfast

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what support her Department has given to the Women’s Tec in North Belfast; and what action her Department is taking to promote women in enterprise, trade and investment. (AQW 8548/08)

Mrs A Foster: The Womens Tec based in Duncairn Gardens, Belfast has been supported by the Social Entrepreneurship Programme delivered by Invest Northern Ireland. The group has received a Social Entrepreneurship Programme Grant of £5,000 as a contribution towards start-up costs, start-up capability mentoring and post-start operational aftercare for a Tradeswomen NI project.

Invest Northern Ireland has been working in partnership with Women’s TEC from June 2006 until May 2008 on the Pathfinding element of the Pathways to Female Entrepreneurship Programme. This was a pre-enterprise awareness programme which was part-funded by Invest Northern Ireland and the Department for Employment and Learning through the European Social Fund under the Northern Ireland Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity.

Benchmarking the Economy

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, further to AQW 7339/08, what plans she has to mirror the exercise conducted by the National Competitiveness Council in the Republic of Ireland to benchmark its economy against 16 other economies and the OECD and European Union averages. (AQW 8575/08)

Mrs A Foster: Establishing an independent Competition Board was one of a number of recommendations made by Sir David Varney in his recent report into the competitiveness of the Northern Ireland economy. Once the Executive has concluded its consideration of the report, the Finance Minister, Nigel Dodds, will issue a response to Sir David and HM Treasury. This will include the Executive’s position on the recommendation to establish a NI Competitiveness Board.

That said, I recognise the importance of measuring and promoting competitiveness in Northern Ireland, and as with many of Sir David’s recommendations, we are already working to achieve this. DETI, in conjunction with other Departments, has previously worked with the Economic Research Institute for Northern Ireland (ERINI) to produce a competitiveness report (Measurement and Benchmarking of the Competitiveness of Northern Ireland) – published October 2006. ERINI will shortly be updating this work with publication expected in the autumn.

UK Marine Bill

Mr Boylan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what involvement her Department will have in the development of the UK Marine Planning Policy Statement under the UK Marine Bill; what implications this will have on the drawing up of objectives that will influence the positioning of renewables at sea; and the discussions that she has had to date with the UK Government on this matter. (AQW 8576/08)

Mrs A Foster: Under the draft UK Marine Bill, it is the Department of the Environment (DOE) that is defined as the relevant policy authority with responsibility for preparation of the Northern Ireland contribution to the Marine Policy Statement (MPS). However, Schedule 4 of the draft Bill requires that in so doing, DOE must consult other relevant Northern Ireland departments with functions in relation to the marine area during the preparation of the consultation draft and during the settling of the final text: the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment is a relevant department.

It is intended that the MPS will set out a framework of high level objectives for the marine environment, rather than set out the detail of the positioning of renewable energy generation at sea. However, the MPS is expected to support the development of renewable energy.

It was in my previous role as Environment Minister that I had dealings with the UK Government on the UK Marine Bill. The Environment Minister is coordinating the Executive’s response to the consultation on the UK Marine Bill, so it is appropriate that liaison should remain with that department.

Citizens Advice Bureau

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what assistance she can provide to the Citizens Advice Bureau or other advice centres for a debt officer in the Ards and Strangford area in April 2009. (AQW 8577/08)

Mrs A Foster: On 3 July 2008 I announced an extra £400,000 for the provision of free face to face debt advice across Northern Ireland for two years starting in April 2009. My Department will be carrying out a post project evaluation of the debt advice service during 2006/07, in order to identify any gaps in provision. It is too early to say whether the extra funding will result in a debt adviser being located in the Ards and Strangford areas at April 2009.

Bio-Fuels Market

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what market there is for Bio-Fuels. (AQW 8595/08)

Mrs A Foster: The biofuel market is a global one with many countries using biofuels in blends with fossil fuels. There is a market for biofuel in the UK and sales of biofuel, from UK and imported sources, made up approximately 1% (530 million litres) of total fuel sales for road transport in 2007.

The UK market will be encouraged further by the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) which came into effect on 15 April 2008 and which includes Northern Ireland. This requires large scale suppliers of fossil-based road and transport fuels in the UK to ensure that a specified percentage of their total road transport fuel sales are made up of renewable transport fuels. The current RTFO target is 5% biofuels by 2010/11, which in broad terms, is likely to equate to around 2.5 billion litres.

Citizens Advice Bureau

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment why her Department did not fund or assist a debt officer in the Ards and Strangford areas, within the Citizens Advice Bureau or other advice centres. (AQW 8597/08)

Mrs A Foster: My Department currently provides funding to Citizen’s Advice for 12 debt advisers located across Northern Ireland for the period 2008-2011. A contract was awarded to Citizens Advice following a public tender exercise where proposals were sought as to how best to meet demand and provide a free face to face service aimed at the most disadvantaged areas. None of the proposals received sought to locate a debt adviser in the Ards and Strangford areas. My Department continues to provide ongoing advice and assistance to all advice centres in Northern Ireland through training, workshops and seminars on many aspects of dealing with debt.

Invest NI

Ms J McCann asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what projects or programmes were affected by Invest NIs reduced requirement of approximately £6 million in its inward investment budget. (AQW 8622/08)

Mrs A Foster: Invest NI operates in a demand-led business environment and reacts to the requirements of its client base. Client’s development projects, and in particular the nature and speed of their implementation, largely drives Invest NI’s in-year budgetary needs. As client requirements are so closely linked to macro economic conditions it is not unusual that there will be some fluctuation in the number and value of projects requiring funding in any one year.

This proposed early release of budget has been determined following a detailed analysis of work in progress and existing commitments. This has indicated that there is a reduced requirement for funding under existing Letters of Offer. As such, there is no one single project or programme that is affected but rather there is an overall lessening in business demand as a consequence of a number of global factors, including the credit crunch and uncertainty of economic conditions overall. These issues are affecting the timing of investment decisions and, therefore, the draw down of financial assistance by clients.

The proposed early release will enable government to redistribute funding to other priorities early in-year.

Transport Costs

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what measures are being taken to address additional transport costs that are a result of Northern Ireland’s relative peripherality within the European Union. (AQW 8634/08)

Mrs A Foster: My department has no policy levers to address additional transport costs. Matters relating to additional transport costs, such as fuel duty, are matters which fall outside the transferred field.

Environment

Unauthorised Quarrying at Spring Road in Omagh

Mr Doherty asked the Minister of the Environment if he will take immediate steps to introduce injunction proceedings to stop unauthorised quarrying at Spring Road, Drumnakilly, Omagh. (AQW 7921/08)

The Minister of the Environment (Mr S Wilson): My Department is continuing to pursue all avenues open to it to prevent unauthorised quarrying continuing at Spring Road, Drumnakilly, Omagh. Officers from Planning Service met Counsel earlier this month on the issue of seeking injunctive proceedings and Planning Service is currently awaiting legal advice.

Departmental Electrical Equipment

Mr Savage asked the Minister of the Environment how many Blackberrys have been purchased by his Department since devolution. (AQW 8168/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department has purchased 260 Blackberrys since devolution.

Enforcement Section of the Planning Service

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of the Environment (i) the total number of people working in the enforcement section of the Planning Service; (ii) the total cost of running the section; (iii) the total number of complaints received over the past 12 months and (iv) the number of complaints which have resulted in action being taken by the enforcement section. (AQW 8246/08)

Mr S Wilson: Information available is as follows:

(i) Each Divisional Planning Office and Planning Service Headquarters (in dealing with minerals, extraction and waste disposal) have dedicated enforcement teams. In total, 62 members of staff work in enforcement sections within Planning Service.

(ii) The total cost of running the six Divisional enforcement sections in 2007/2008 was £1,396,292. This figure relates to salaries and general administrative expenses.

(iii) My Department receives a significant number of complaints in relation to unauthorised development each year. The total number of complaints (i.e. cases opened) from 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2008 was 2,826.

(iv) In terms of formal action, from April 2007 to March 2008, 218 formal notices were served.

The majority of complaints come from members of the public and Planning Service has a duty to fully investigate each and decide on the appropriate course of action. However, I must stress that a relatively small number require the Department to take formal enforcement action.

Many cases are successfully resolved without the need for formal action, for example because there is no breach of control i.e. the works complained about are permitted development and no action is necessary, or matters are resolved satisfactorily through negotiation leading to the submission of an application or compliance by removing unauthorised works. Indeed over 3000 cases are satisfactorily resolved every year. However, where significant development takes place which is unacceptable, my Department is committed to taking the appropriate enforcement action and pursing the individuals through the courts.

Corncrake Numbers

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment what steps he is taking to increase Corncrake numbers. (AQW 8271/08)

Mr S Wilson: EHS has been involved in the drafting and delivery of UK and all-Ireland corncrake species action plans. Specifically EHS supports the Corncrake Grant Scheme which encourages farmers to adopt suitable grass-cutting practices where corncrakes occur. In addition, land acquisition and habitat management for corncrake on Rathlin Island by the RSPB has been grant-aided by the EHS.

Light Pollution

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of the Environment if any strategies are in place to tackle light pollution. (AQW 8299/08)

Mr S Wilson: At the moment there are no strategies in place to tackle light pollution.

Light pollution is one of a number of local environmental quality issues my officials have considered under the Clean Neighbourhoods Agenda remit which aims to bring forward stronger and more effective legislation and guidance to help district councils to improve the environmental quality of our local neighbourhoods and public spaces throughout Northern Ireland.

One option to help tackle the light pollution problem is to extend statutory nuisance laws to include artificial light. This would allow district councils and members of the public to take action for statutory nuisance from artificial light where appropriate.

We intend to consult on Clean Neighbourhoods Agenda proposals in due course.

Planning Approval on Bogland

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of the Environment if any policies are in place in respect of granting planning approval on bogland. (AQW 8300/08)

Mr S Wilson: Planning Policy Statement 2 ‘Nature Conservation’ sets out the Department’s land-use planning policies for the conservation of our natural heritage, including any bogland designated for its nature conservation value.

Draft PPS 18 ‘Renewal Energy’ also provides for the protection of active peatland in relation to wind energy development.

Planning Policy Statement 14

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment when Planning Policy Statement 14 will be concluded. (AQW 8320/08)

Mr S Wilson: I expect to submit a revised draft PPS 14 to the Executive Committee very soon with a view to issuing for public consultation.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister of the Environment the rationale behind the Planning Service agreeing to a new draft Planning Agreement in relation to Belfast City Airport. (AQW 8322/08)

Mr S Wilson: The rationale behind the revised draft Planning Agreement was the request by the Belfast City Airport authorities in July 2004 to review the existing 1997 Planning Agreement, as recommended in the 2003 White Paper, "The Future of Air Transport".

Salmonid Rivers

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of the Environment what work his Department is currently undertaking to ensure that salmonid rivers and their tributaries are safeguarded. (AQW 8334/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department’s Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) has a statutory duty under the Environment (Northern Ireland) Order 2002 to designate and protect rivers as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs) if they are considered to be of special interest by reason of their flora, fauna, geological, physiographical or other features, which would include Atlantic Salmon. It is also required to designate and protect rivers as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), if they merit such designation under Habitats Directive for their Atlantic Salmon interests.

To date EHS has designated three ASSIs that have salmonoid interests and two SACs that are coincident with these ASSIs. One additional ASSI, and a coincident SAC, that embrace this interest will be designated by September 2008.

The Freshwater Fish Directive aims to protect or improve the quality of those running or standing freshwaters which support or which, if pollution were reduced or eliminated, would become capable of supporting fish life.

Some 4,500 km of river length have been designated under this legislation. In addition, the Newry, Lagan and Coalisland canals along with 17 reservoirs and lakes have also been designated. These designations assist in maintaining and improving water quality, reducing pollution in rivers and creating the right habitat to encourage healthy fish populations.

The Water Framework Directive also requires the monitoring and classification of fish regarding species, age and abundance in freshwaters. This will be undertaken at various monitoring stations comprising around 90 river stations and 27 lakes throughout Northern Ireland.

Planning Pre-Application Enquiries

Mr Poots asked the Minister of the Environment what timescale his Department accepts as reasonable to deal with major planning pre-application enquiries. (AQW 8354/08)

Mr S Wilson: My officials have published guidance for prospective developers and applicants on pre-application discussions. This will assist in the development of procedures for meaningful pre-application engagement between the Planning Service, our key consultees – and applicants. As part of the pre-application discussions, an indicative timescale for processing the application will be provided. However, the timescale for dealing with the pre-application discussion process, from start to finish, will clearly be dependent on a number of factors including, the nature and complexity of the proposal, the key issues that need to be addressed such as, environmental or economic impacts and the time taken by the prospective developer to provide the necessary information to inform the discussions. Pre-application discussions will be dealt with by my officials as quickly as it is possible to do so.

Nuisance Trees and Hedges

Mrs Long asked the Minister of the Environment for an update on proposed legislation in relation to nuisance trees and hedges. (AQW 8358/08)

Mr S Wilson: I am keen to bring forward legislation to address this problem, starting with a policy consultation on the detailed operation of the legislation. However, the timing will be subject to consideration of the other competing priorities facing my Department.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister of the Environment what representations have been made by Belfast City Airport in relation to the relaxation of the existing Planning Agreement. (AQW 8363/08)

Mr S Wilson: The review of the existing Planning Agreement has been ongoing since 2004 and all interested parties have had the opportunity to make representations both in writing and orally, through the Examination in Public (EIP). The City Airport authorities have made representations on all the key issues.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister of the Environment how economic, financial and environmental arguments made by Belfast City Airport in favour of relaxation of the Planning Agreement have been assessed by the Planning Service. (AQW 8364/08)

Mr S Wilson: All representations by interested parties in relation to the key issues have been carefully considered by the Planning Service in the context of the EIP panel’s report which assessed the relevant matters and made recommendations. The draft revised Planning Agreement represents the outcome of this lengthy consultation process which is still ongoing with the Belfast City Council, North Down Borough Council and the Airport Forum Group.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister of the Environment why the proposed ‘community fund’, in relation to the relaxation of the existing Planning Agreement with Belfast City Airport, is only being deployed within the East Belfast constituency. (AQW 8365/08)

Mr S Wilson: The proposed Community Fund is linked directly to the number of late flights which the Airport Authorities are expected to keep to an absolute minimum. The quantum of funds available is therefore likely to be limited and the intention was to focus funds in the area most affected, namely the greater East Belfast area. However any representations about extending the eligible area will be carefully considered.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister of the Environment what controls and penalties will be enforced in relation to the use of Belfast City Airport by ‘delayed aircraft’ under the terms of a new Planning Agreement with the airport. (AQW 8366/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Department and the Airport Authorities are committed to keeping the number of "delayed aircraft" post 9.30 pm to a minimum. Control measures are kept under review and penalties will be introduced under the proposed Community Fund as part of an agreement with Belfast City Airport on changes for late flights. Consultation on this is ongoing.

Quarry Extraction in Omagh

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the conditions of the planning application submitted by the gold mine company in Omagh for quarry extraction. (AQW 8390/08)

Mr S Wilson: The ‘Gold Mine’ site at Cavanacaw outside Omagh was granted planning permission on 23 May 1995 (Ref. No. K/1992/0713). The proposal was deemed a major planning application under Article 31 of the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991.

In order to consider representations made in respect of the application, the Department caused a local public inquiry to be held by the Planning Appeals Commission. The application was accompanied by an Environmental Statement in accordance with the Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1989.

A copy of the conditions attached to the decision notice granting planning permission has been placed in the Assembly Library.

Gold Mine Quarry in Omagh

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of the Environment what assessment has been carried out into (i) the environmental impact; (ii) the impact on roads infrastructure; and (iii) noise pollution, as a result of the extraction of material at the gold mine quarry in Omagh. (AQW 8392/08)

Mr S Wilson: The ‘Gold Mine’ at Cavanacaw outside Omagh is owned by Omagh Minerals Ltd and the site was granted planning permission 23 May 1995 (Ref. No. K/1992/0713).

In accordance with the Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1989 the planning application was accompanied by an Environmental Statement to address environmental concerns.

The proposal was deemed a major planning application under Article 31 of the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991. In order to consider representations made in respect of the application, the Department requested the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) to hold a public local inquiry.

The Commission’s report to the Department carefully examined all the topics considered in the various reports submitted to it and confirmed its agreement with the conclusions reached. The topics considered included those raised by Thomas Buchanan MLA, namely, the environmental impact; the impact on roads infrastructure; and noise pollution.

Following consideration of the report the Department agreed with the recommendation of the Commission that full planning permission should be granted.

A significant number of conditions were attached to the permission to control activity at the mine, and these are monitored by Planning Service.

My colleague, Conor Murphy MP MLA, Minister for Regional Development, has informed me that the recent increase in vehicular activity around the gold mine quarry area in Omagh has caused substantial damage to the Botera Upper and Corlea Roads.

Local officials from Roads Service have pursued the haulage contractor, under Article 11 of the Roads Order, as it is considered to be "Extraordinary Traffic". The contractor has accepted his responsibilities and is currently engaged in re-constructing and resurfacing approximately 300 metres of the Botera Upper and Corlea Roads.

Recycling of Domestic Waste

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of the Environment what percentage of domestic waste was recycled in each of the last 5 years, broken down by District Council area. (AQW 8411/08)

Mr S Wilson: The figures for the last five years available are set out in the table below.

The 2007/08 figures will be published in November 2008 following final verification.

District Council	Percentage of Household Waste Recycled
	2002	2003	2004/ 05	2005/ 06	2006/ 07
Antrim BC	19.1	22.4	38.39	44.02	47.11
Ards BC	9.6	9.0	20.40	24.02	25.45
Ballymena BC	21.0	18.0	23.39	26.87	28.15
Belfast CC	4.0	4.6	8.86	14.36	18.95
Carrickfergus BC	8.2	10.5	17.20	17.41	21.89
Castlereagh BC	5.0	12.1	22.24	32.53	34.91
Down DC	13.5	13.3	19.17	33.69	32.16
Larne BC	6.0	9.6	16.49	25.00	31.63
Lisburn CC	9.0	9.2	12.25	19.83	25.08
Newtownabbey BC	16.5	17.0	19.90	22.54	24.79
North Down BC	11.1	12.6	17.21	24.63	32.97
ARC21 Total	9.7	10.6	16.70	22.90	26.80
Ballymoney BC	10.2	9.9	24.02	24.44	24.75
Coleraine BC	6.8	11.6	18.60	24.26	25.67
Derry CC	2.7	7.2	13.72	28.07	24.37
Limavady BC	2.5	10.9	27.33	35.88	28.51
Magherafelt DC	4.9	18.1	31.42	35.66	35.26
Moyle DC	2.1	4.6	11.32	25.51	26.53
Strabane D C	4.1	8.6	17.32	21.30	22.81
NWRWMG Total	4.6	10.1	19.30	27.60	26.30
Armagh City & DC	16.5	21.0	23.30	26.70	32.83
Banbridge DC	29.5	33.3	39.21	40.99	45.13
Cookstown DC	17.3	16.2	20.06	28.14	31.57
Craigavon BC	16.1	19.3	23.35	29.29	29.96
Dungannon & South Tyrone BC	10.9	13.4	20.13	19.54	24.93
Fermanagh DC	10.6	17.5	21.04	20.77	27.83
Newry & Mourne DC	9.3	13.4	20.03	24.86	27.83
Omagh DC	9.1	12.2	19.62	17.77	27.95
SWAMP	14.3	18.0	23.00	25.90	30.50
Ni Total	10.0	12.5	18.9	24.5	27.7

 

Illegal Dumping

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of the Environment for an estimate of the amount of waste originating from the Republic of Ireland that was illegally dumped in Northern Ireland, in each of the last 5 years. (AQW 8414/08)

Mr S Wilson: Waste from the Republic of Ireland was tipped in Northern Ireland as a result of criminal activity. As such, it is not possible to accurately quantify the true amount of waste and the time of its deposit. However, my officials have established that there are 20 illegal sites in Northern Ireland containing approximately 200,000 – 250,000 tonnes of waste from the Republic of Ireland. Other sites exist which contain a proportion of such waste.

Recycling Domestic Waste

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of the Environment what percentage of domestic waste is recycled and what percentage of non-hazardous construction and demolition waste is recycled. (AQW 8431/08)

Mr S Wilson: The latest figures available indicate that 27.7% of domestic waste was recycled in Northern Ireland during 2006-7. The 2007/08 figures are currently being compiled and should be available in November 2008.

An estimated 34.7% of non-hazardous construction and demolition waste, comprising aggregate and soil, was recycled during 2005/06.

Recycling Waste

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of the Environment for his assessment of Northern Ireland’s capacity to meet the binding targets for re-use and recycling of waste agreed by the European Parliament in plenary session on 17 June. (AQW 8432/08)

Mr S Wilson: The targets for re-use and recycling of waste agreed by the European Parliament in plenary session on 17 June are not binding on Member States until the revised Waste Framework Directive has been adopted by the European Council. Member States will then have a further two years in which to transpose and implement the Directive. For the time being, my Department is working towards the targets for recycling and recovery set out in the Northern Ireland Waste Management Strategy. These are:

60% of Commercial and Industrial Waste to be recycled by 2020

75% of Construction, Demolition and Excavation Wastes to be recycled or reused by 2020

Recycling and Composting of Household Wastes to be at:

35% by 2010

40% by 2015

45% by 2020

There has been a steady increase in Northern Ireland’s recycling rate for municipal waste in recent years from 8.9% in 2002 to 25.5% in 2006/07. In view of this I am confident that continuing progress can be made towards achieving the targets set in the Strategy.

Recycling Waste

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of the Environment what measures he is considering to ensure that Northern Ireland achieves the targets for re-use and recycling of waste agreed by the European Parliament in plenary session on 17 June. (AQW 8433/08)

Mr S Wilson: The targets for re-use and recycling of waste agreed by the European Parliament on 17 June have yet to be adopted by the Environment Council. It is therefore too early to consider what measures might be necessary to achieve these targets.

Belfast City Airport

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment whether any proposal to extend George Best Belfast City Airport would be subject to a full public inquiry. (AQW 8444/08)

Mr S Wilson: Pre-application discussions have taken place and remain ongoing. A planning application has not yet been submitted.

Any forthcoming application to extend the runway is likely to be designated as one of major importance under Article 31 of the Planning (NI) Order 1991. One option open to the Department through the Article 31 process is to hold a public inquiry.

Until such times as a planning application is made and consideration of the proposal has taken place the Department is not in a position to confirm whether or not the application would be subject to a public inquiry.

Belfast City Airport

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment how many flights took place at George Best Belfast City Airport after 9.30pm in each month over the past two years. (AQW 8445/08)

Mr S Wilson: Details are attached showing the delayed flights by month over the past 2 years plus by time band. The majority of delayed flights occur between 9.30 – 10.00pm. Late flights in 2006 and 2007 represent 1.5% and 1.8% respectively of the total annual number of flights.

2006 Total		Percentage Extensions By Time Band (2006)
Time	Total
	Arr Dep	ARR	DEP	Total
2131-2200	233 113	59.74%	63.13%	60.81%
2201-2230	84 40	21.54%	22.35%	21.79%
2231-2300	46 16	11.79%	8.94%	10.90%
2301-2359	27 10	6.93%	5.59%	6.50%
Totals	390 179	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Total	569

 

2007 Total		Percentage Extensions By Time Band (2007)
Time	Total
	Arr Dep	ARR	DEP	Total
2131-2200	451 69	70.91%	61.61%	69.52%
2201-2230	124 31	19.50%	27.68%	20.72%
2231-2300	42 9	6.60%	8.04%	6.82%
2301-2359	19 3	2.99%	2.68%	2.94%
Totals	390 179	100.00%	100.00%	100.00%
Total	748

 

Delayed ATM’s after 21.30

	2006	2007
January	20	46
February	31	35
March	52	43
April	27	27
May	56	64
June	46	106
July	57	100
August	66	63
September	42	68
October	68	54
November	40	65
December	64	77
Totals	569	748

 

1997 Planning Agreement

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment what enforcement action he intends to take to implement the 1997 Planning Agreement, preventing flights after 9.30pm at George Best Belfast City Airport. (AQW 8447/08)

Mr S Wilson: The review of the 1997 Planning Agreement is ongoing and a revised draft Agreement is currently the subject of consultation. As part of the review it is proposed to introduce a Community Fund linked to penalty charges for flights delayed after 9.30pm. In the circumstances no enforcement action is presently anticipated.

Incidents of Noise Pollution

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment how many incidents of noise pollution (i) have been reported; and (ii) have led to prosecutions, in each of the last 5 years, broken down by District Council area. (AQW 8448/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Department of the Environment reports the number of noise complaints received and legal action taken by district councils between 01 April and 31 March annually.

Statistics are available for the last 4 annual reporting periods only. Statistics for the 2007/08 period are currently being collated and this report will be published in autumn this year. The table below has been derived using statistics relating to all 26 council areas, from the last four noise complaint statistics reports.

The outcome of each prosecution is not recorded by the Department and may be sought from the individual councils concerned.

The Noise Complaint Statistics for Northern Ireland reports are available from the Assembly Library, or may be viewed in full at: http://www.doeni.gov.uk/index/protect_the_environment/local_environmental_issues/noise/complaint_statistics_for_ni.htm

Incidents of Dog Fouling

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment how many incidents of dog fouling have been reported in each of the last 5 years, broken down by District Council area. (AQW 8464/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department does not hold information on the number of incidents of dog fouling which have been reported in each of the last 5 years. However, details in relation to the number of dog fouling fixed penalty notices issued by each district council have been compiled since 1 April 2004. Detailed below are these figures for the periods 2004/2005, 2005/2006 and 2006/2007. My Department has recently requested the figures for 2007/08 and I will let you have these as soon as they become available.

Council	No. of fixed penalty notices issued for dog fouling 1 April 04 to 31 March 05	No. of fixed penalty notices issued for dog fouling 1 April 05 to 31 March 06	No. of fixed penalty notices issued for dog fouling 1 April 06 to 31 March 07
Antrim BC	1	2	1
Ards BC	4	14	5
Armagh City & DC	0	0	0
Ballymena BC	3	2	3
Ballymoney BC	1	0	0
Banbridge DC	0	0	2
Belfast CC	73	234	143
Carrickfergus BC	3	1	4
Castlereagh BC	1	3	2
Coleraine BC	15	10	10
Cookstown DC	2	1	0
Craigavon BC	0	5	9
Derry CC	0	0	0
Down DC	16	6	4
Dungannon & South Tyrone BC	0	0	0
Fermanagh DC	0	0	0
Larne BC	5	10	14
Limavady BC	0	2	0
Lisburn CC	2	2	1
Magherafelt DC	0	0	4
Moyle DC	0	1	0
Newry & Mourne DC	0	0	0
Newtownabbey BC	50	7	90
North Down BC	8	14	6
Omagh DC	0	0	14
Strabane DC	0	0	0
Totals	184	314	312

 

Illegal Dumping

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment how many incidents of illegal dumping have been reported in each of the last 5 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency. (AQW 8465/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department records details of illegal dumping by District Council, but not by Parliament Constituency. That being the case, I refer my Honourable Friend to the answer he received to AQW4748/08 on 19 March 2008.

Pollution Incident in Six Mile Water River

Mr Burns asked the Minister of the Environment for his assessment of the latest pollution incident in the Six Mile Water River and to provide an update on the investigation into the source of the pollution. (AQW 8495/08)

Mr S Wilson: It is my assessment that this was a serious incident, which has been classified by the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) as being of ‘High Severity’. The Six Mile Water has been severely impacted and initial assessments were that in excess of 2000 game fish and thousands of coarse fish were killed as a result of the pollution which occurred on 18 June.

Investigations point to the likelihood that this fishkill was caused by a ‘plug’ of pollution which passed down the Ballymartin Water and into the Six Mile Water. However, to date, no definitive source has been identified.

EHS staff lifted a number of samples with a view to identifying the nature and source of the pollution and a biological survey is underway. Since the start of this year EHS has undertaken 205 pollution prevention visits, 38 water pollution risk assessments and issued 7 enforcement notices in relation to premises within the Mallusk Industrial Estate. Immediately following the fish kill incident, 6 of these premises were checked by EHS staff.

Planning Appeals Commission

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment if, during the review of the planning service, he will investigate opportunities to enable individuals and local concerned residents rights of appeal to the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) and also following any decisions made by the PAC, in order to balance opportunities currently afforded to developers/applicants. (AQW 8502/08)

Mr S Wilson: The programme of planning reform which I am currently taking forward aims to bring about improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning system and to create a planning system that provides transparency in decision making, and gives confidence to its users. I am considering the issue of third party planning appeals in this context and against the background of the Review of Public Administration announcement which will see the transfer of significant planning functions to District Councils. I intend to issue a consultation paper on planning reform later this year.

Planning Appeals Commission

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment what steps he will take after the review of the planning process to encourage developers/applicants to use all the avenues available to them when submitting a planning application instead of opting to go directly to the Planning Appeals Commission, since this approach puts genuine objectors at a disadvantage on several issues, including affordability of legal and specialist expertise. (AQW 8503/08)

Mr S Wilson: The programme of planning reform which I am currently taking forward aims to bring about improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning system and to create a planning system that provides transparency in decision making, and gives confidence to its users. I am considering the appeals process in this context and against the background of the Review of Public Administration announcement which will see the transfer of significant planning functions to District Councils. I intend to issue a consultation paper on planning reform later this year.

Unapproved Landfill Sites

Mr Dallat asked the Minister of the Environment to outline his policies to remove illegal and toxic waste from unapproved landfill sites; and to list where these policies have been successful and where they have failed. (AQW 8508/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department does not have the legislative authority to require landowners to remove illegally deposited waste. This power lies with District Councils (DCs) through notices issued under Article 28 of the Waste and Contaminated Land (NI) Order 1997, which also allows them to remove the waste and recoup the costs from the landowner. Costs associated with remediation of larger scale sites can, and often do, run into tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of pounds; in relation to the much larger sites, remediation costs can exceed £1 million.

DCs also have powers under the Litter (NI) Order 1994 and public health legislation to deal with illegally deposited waste.

EHS concentrates its efforts in an efficient and effective manner in dealing with large scale commercial dumping, particularly where hazardous and toxic waste is concerned. Its enforcement policy is currently being revised following the report by the Criminal Justice Inspectorate in October 2007.

In relation to waste from the Republic of Ireland illegally dumped in Northern Ireland, my Department’s policy is to seek its removal and repatriation. My officials are currently engaged with the relevant Irish authorities in respect of the repatriation of waste from 20 sites in Northern Ireland. Repatriation of such waste from one site, in South Armagh, took place last year.

On-the-Spot Motor Vehicle Checks

Mr Dallat asked the Minister of the Environment to state the frequency, within the past year, in which test centres have been involved with the PSNI in carrying out on-the-spot checks on motor vehicles suspected of being modified illegally and not conforming to approved road standards. (AQW 8509/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Driver & Vehicle Agency has undertaken 2 private car enforcement operations during the past 12 months in which test centres have been utilised for the purposes of carrying out on-the-spot-checks on motor vehicles suspected of being modified illegally and not conforming to approved road standards.

During these operations 30 motor cars were inspected resulting in 15 vehicles subjected to immediate prohibition action as a result of serious mechanical defects. A further 3 vehicles were subjected to delayed prohibition action on grounds of minor non compliances.

Pollution Incident in Six Mile Water River

Mr McLaughlin asked the Minister of the Environment (i) for a progress report in relation to the Environment and Heritage Service investigation into the recent pollution incident at Six Mile Water that resulted in a massive fish kill; (ii) what measures he will introduce to prevent a recurrence; and (iii) for an assurance that appropriate sanctions will be imposed on anyone deliberately or negligently polluting rivers. (AQW 8513/08)

Mr S Wilson:

(i) Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) staff lifted a number of samples with a view to identifying the source of the pollution. Premises in the Mallusk Industrial Estate have been checked, and a biological survey is underway. To date, no definitive source has been identified.

(ii) I have instructed my officials to complete a water pollution risk assessment on all industrial premises on the Mallusk Industrial Estate within the next 3 months and to ensure that mitigation measures are put in place at any premises deemed to be of high or medium risk of causing water pollution.

(iii) I agree that a prosecution would be warranted in the case of the incident referred to. In order to submit a case to the Public Prosecution Service, for consideration as to the instigation of a prosecution, EHS must clearly identify the source of a pollution incident and produce relevant evidence. In any instance where a prosecution is taken, the question of what sanctions are appropriate rests with the Courts and is outwith the remit of my Department.

Planning Applications

Mr McKay asked the Minister of the Environment whether every applicant for a site receives notification that the application has been approved or rejected. (AQW 8514/08)

Mr S Wilson: On receipt of a planning application, Planning Service will send any necessary correspondence to either the applicant or appointed agent.

In cases whereby agents have been appointed on behalf of applicants to prepare and submit planning applications, the agent is the point of contact and all correspondence regarding the planning application including the decision notice will be sent to the appointed agent.

In every case the applicant directly, or through their appointed agent, is informed, through the issue of a decision notice, of the outcome of their planning application.

Registered Taxi Drivers

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment how many taxi drivers are registered. (AQW 8543/08)

Mr S Wilson: There were 19604 licensed taxi drivers in Northern Ireland at 25 June 2008.

Planning Policy Statement 5

Mr Beggs asked the Minister of the Environment when the draft version of Planning Policy Statement 5 was published; the date on which consultation ended; and when Planning Policy Statement 5 will be published. (AQW 8560/08)

Mr S Wilson: Draft PPS5 (revised) was issued by the Department for Regional Development for public consultation in July 2006. The consultation period ended on 3 November 2006. Draft PPS 5 is currently subject to Judicial Review and will be published as soon as possible.

Driver and Vehicle Agency

Mr Ross asked the Minister of the Environment what plans he has to ensure that the Driver and Vehicle Agency is automatically informed where a taxi driver has been convicted of a criminal offence. (AQW 8565/08)

Mr S Wilson: Before granting a taxi driver licence, the Department must be satisfied that the applicant is a fit and proper person. This is carried out by means of a repute check on the applicant’s criminal record, if any. This check is carried out on first application and then at every renewal which is a 5 year interval.

It is also a condition of the licence that taxi drivers inform the Department of any convictions arising during the currency of the licence. Furthermore applicants for annual PSV licences (taxi vehicles) are legally required to declare any further conviction.

The Department is regularly informed by the PSNI of conviction details relating to licensed taxi drivers.

I have no plans to change the current procedures.

Areas of Special Scientific Interest

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment for an update on the establishment of Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI); and what plans he has to extend or speed up the rolling out of this programme. (AQW 8598/08)

Mr S Wilson: To date 257 ASSIs have been designated. These cover some 94,602 hectares, which represents approximately 6.63% of the total landmass of Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency has put in place measures that will increase the rate of designation. A priority, risk-based list of 200 sites for designation by 2016 has been established, and the target for 2008/09, and each of the two successive years of the current Programme for Government, is set at 25 sites.

This list of 200 possible ASSIs is not exhaustive and others will be declared after 2016, but it is not possible to provide information on all other additional sites at this stage.

Departmental Response to Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of the Environment what assessment he has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action he has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8626/08)

Mr S Wilson: Fuel costs relating to DOE are primarily in respect of vehicle usage. Most of the expenditure relating to the fuel costs associated with the Department’s buildings is paid by the Department of Finance and Personnel.

No formal assessment has been made yet regarding the impact of higher vehicle fuel costs/duty on the departmental budget. However, although these additional costs will be minimal, my Department will continue to monitor non-salary running costs during the year with a view to taking necessary action. This could, for example, lead to a reduction in the number and re-prioritisation of journeys made by my officials.

There will be no real impact on the realisation of departmental efficiency targets as savings in respect of these actions have already been removed from the Department’s baselines as part of the Budget 2008-11 process.

Tree Preservation Orders

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment if he will compel the developer who felled trees subject to a Tree Preservation Order at Myrtle Lodge, Newcastle, to replace the felled trees. (AQW 8670/08)

Mr S Wilson: It would be inappropriate to make detailed comment on the case until the matter has either been before the court or the Department has determined that no case can be taken.

A breach of a Tree Preservation Order is a summary offence and the penalty, which may include the necessity to replace any trees felled, is a matter for the courts.

Tree Preservation Orders

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment what action has been taken to enforce the Tree Preservation Orders on the trees felled at Myrtle Lodge, Newcastle. (AQW 8673/08)

Mr S Wilson: It would be inappropriate to make detailed comment on the case until the matter has either been before the court or the Department has determined that no case can be taken.

A breach of a Tree Preservation Order is a summary offence and the penalty, which may include the necessity to replace any trees felled, is a matter for the courts.

Illegal Waste

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of the Environment further to AQW 7034/08, the nature of the liaison with Dublin City Council on a contract for the removal of the illegal waste, and what progress has since been made towards the removal and return of the waste from the sites specified. (AQW 8677/08)

Mr S Wilson: My officials are currently in the process of agreeing a date for a further meeting with Dublin City Council to progress the contract for the removal of the waste from a number of sites, including Slattinagh in Fermanagh and Trillick in Tyrone.

Under EU rules, a tendering process must be instigated. This will involve obtaining expressions of interest from potential contractors and then drawing up a shortlist of contractors qualified to carry out the task. The tendering process will involve drawing up a framework agreement. This however will provide a panel of approved contractors from which to draw for a number of years.

Rose Energy

Mr Butler asked the Minister of the Environment how many letters of objection he has received in relation to Rose Energy’s plans to build an incinerator on the shores of Lough Neagh. (AQW 8711/08)

Mr S Wilson: The planning application for a Biomass Fuelled Power Plant at Ballyvannon Road Glenavy was submitted by Rose Energy to the Planning Service Headquarters on 4th June 2008. To date 1317 letters of objection have been submitted to the Planning Service in respect of this planning application.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Mr Doherty asked the Minister of the Environment if it is his intention to designate the Sperrins region as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and to provide a timescale and steps involved for this process. (AQW 8742/08)

Mr S Wilson: My officials in the Northern Ireland Environment Agency will complete the Order for designation of the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty under the Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands Order (NI) 1985 in August 2008.

Notification of the Department’s intention to designate has been published in local papers and the Belfast Gazette. An event to announce the designation is being planned for September.

Reducing Dust from Quarries

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment what steps he is taking to control and reduce the dust from quarries situated close to homes. (AQW 8784/08)

Mr S Wilson: The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates quarries carrying out crushing or screening of rock under the Industrial Pollution Control (NI) Order 1997.

Authorisations issued to quarry operators require them to use the ‘best available techniques not entailing excessive cost’ (BATNEEC) to prevent or minimise releases of dust to air.

Typical techniques employed to control dust releases include effective plant enclosure, dust suppression, dust extraction and abatement, hard surfaced internal roads that are dampened in dry weather and vehicle wheel cleaning devices. The presence of residential property close to a quarry is taken into consideration in setting authorisation conditions.

NIEA staff carry out inspections of regulated quarries to assess compliance. Any complaints received about dust emissions are investigated.

Prosecutions for Violation of Preservation Orders

Mr Adams asked the Minister of the Environment how many prosecutions have been initiated by her Department in relation to breaches of Preservation Orders on (i) buildings; (ii) trees; and (iii) ancient landmarks, in the past three years. (AQO 3659/08)

Mr S Wilson: My Department has initiated 11 prosecutions in respect of offences relating to Listed Buildings in the past three years. These include demolition of a listed building, Unauthorised replacement of windows in a listed building and the erection of a sign on a listed building.

In the last three years my Department has investigated a number of cases where it was alleged that trees protected by a TPO had been damaged or destroyed without the required consent of my Department and has initiated prosecutions in 4 cases.

The felling of trees covered by a TPO is only illegal if it can be demonstrated to the court that the person or persons involved has wilfully destroyed or wilfully damaged a tree in a manner likely to destroy it.

My Department’s approach in such cases however is to attempt to reach a resolution through negotiation without the need for formal court action.

In the past three years my Department has initiated one prosecution in relation to damage at a Scheduled Historic Monument, under the provisions of the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995

Finance and Personnel

Somme Memorial

Mr McCausland asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel when the Somme Memorial was erected in the grounds of Parliament Buildings. (AQW 7911/08)

The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Mr N Dodds): The Somme Memorial is a group of Cedar trees within the Stormont Estate that were planted in December 1932. A Mourne granite memorial was added in 1976.

Current Vacancies in the Civil Service

Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel the number and location of current vacancies in the Civil Service at (i) Administrative Officer; (ii) Executive Officer II; (iii) Executive Officer I; and (iv) Staff Officer, in each Department. (AQW 8096/08)

Mr N Dodds: The location and number of vacancies in permanent posts in each Northern Ireland Civil Service department at the grades of (i) Administrative Officer; (ii) Executive Officer 2; (iii) Executive Officer 1; and (iv) Staff Officer are set out in the table attached.

Vacancies (Full Time Equivalent basis) in the eleven NI Departments and their Agencies in Grades: AO; EO2; EO1; SO, at 17 June 2008

Department	AO		EO2		EO1		SO
	Number	Location (posts)	Number	Location (posts)	Number	Location (posts)	Number	Location (posts)
Agriculture & Rural Development (DARD)	13	Belfast(10), Ballymena(1), Omagh(2)	9.5	Belfast(5), Antrim(1.5), Ballymena(1), Dungannon(1), Londonderry(1)	5.8	Belfast(5), Londonderry(0.8)	5	Belfast
Culture, Arts & Leisure (DCAL)	6	Belfast(5) Castlewellan(0.5) Ballinamallard(0.5)	0		2	Belfast	1	Belfast
Education (DE)	6.5	Bangor(5), Londonderry(1.5)	3	Bangor	0		10	Bangor
Employment & Learning (DEL)1	30.8	Belfast(17.9), Antrim(1), Carrickfergus(0.9), Coleraine(2.5), Enniskillen(1.6), Foyle(1), Lisburn(1.8), Lisnagelvin(1), Newcastle(0.6), Newry(0.7), Newtownabbey(1) Omagh(0.8)	24.4	Belfast(17.1), Carrickfergus(1), Coleraine(1), Dungannon(0.9), Foyle(1), Lurgan(1), Newry(1.4), Omagh(1),	51.3	Belfast(26.8), Dungannon(2.7), Limavady(0.5), Newry(1) 1Throughout NI (20.3)	13	Belfast
Enterprise, Trade & Investment (DETI)	8.7	Belfast	3	Belfast	3	Belfast	0
Finance & Personnel (DFP) 2	32	Belfast(30), Ballymena(1), Craigavon(1)	23	Belfast	31	Belfast	25	Belfast
Health, Social Services & Public Safety (DHSSPS)	7.9	Belfast(6.9) Londonderry(1)	3	Belfast	6.5	Belfast	6	Belfast

 

Department	AO		EO2		EO1		SO
	Number	Location (posts)	Number	Location (posts)	Number	Location (posts)	Number	Location (posts)
Environment (DOE)	59.5	Belfast(19), Armagh(1), Ballymena(3), Coleraine(30), Downpatrick(1.5), Enniskillen(2), Lisburn(1), Omagh(2)	16.5	Belfast(14), Coleraine(2.5)	24	Belfast(20), Coleraine(3), Londonderry(1)	28.5	Belfast(24.5), Armagh(1), Ballymena(1), Coleraine(2)
Regional Development (DRD)	30	Belfast(14), Ballymena(7), Coleraine(1), Craigavon(3), Downpatrick(5)	10	Belfast(4), Ballymena(3), Coleraine(1), Downpatrick(1), Omagh(1)	18	Belfast(13), Antrim(1), Ballymena(1), Coleraine(2), Omagh(1)	11	Belfast(10), Craigavon(1)
Social Development (DSD) 3	155	Belfast(139), Banbridge(1), Coleraine(1), Limavady(1), Londonderry(6), Newry(1), Newtownabbey(1), Newtownards(1), Omagh(1), Portadown(3)	97	Belfast(86), Antrim(2), Ballymena(1), Downpatrick(1), Larne(1), Limavady(1), Lisburn(1), Londonderry(2), Portadown(2)	51	Belfast(42), Antrim(1), Bangor(1), Coleraine(1), Cookstown(1), Downpatrick(1), Dungannon(1), Londonderry(1), Magherafelt(1), ewry(1),	55	Belfast(51), Antrim(1), Ballymoney(1), Londonderry(2)
Office of the First & Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM)	0		3	Belfast	1	Belfast	5	Belfast
Total	349.4		192.4		193.6		159.5

 

1 DEL: The locations of the EO1 (Careers Advisors) vacancies listed as "throughout NI" are still to be determined.

2 DFP Figures at 1 June 2008 except: Land and Property Services, latest figures available at 30 March 2008

3 DSD figures at 17 June 2008 except: Social Security Agency, latest figures available at 31 May 2008; and Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division (previously the CSA), latest figures available at 20 May 2008.

Use of Recyclable Ink and Laser Cartridges

Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the procurement policies that exist within the Civil Service to encourage the use of recyclable ink and laser cartridges; how many (i) ink cartridges; and (ii) laser cartridges, were purchased in 2007-08; and what proportion of these cartridges were purchased from a recycling cartridge source. (AQW 8292/08)

Mr N Dodds: The purchase of Ink and Laser cartridges are procured from the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) Office Consumables Framework which commenced on the 1st February 2006.

Procurement policy allows for the integration of social, economic and environmental consideration into procurement. In line with this policy the Framework currently has sustainable alternatives included to provide departments with a choice of new or remanufactured cartridges and all suppliers offer a free of charge recycling service.

The table below provides information relating to cartridge purchases for the period 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008.

	Quantity	% of Total
Laser Toner Cartridge
Original (OEM)	25836	84
Remanufactured	4816	16
Total	30652	100
Inkjet Toner Cartridges
Original (OEM)	23087	94
Remanufactured	1559	6
Total	24646	100

 

* OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

Departmental Response to Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what assessment he has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what actions he has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8399/08)

Mr N Dodds: The recent increase in fuel costs have been substantial. If prices remain at current levels, or higher, for the remainder of the financial year, there will be pressure on this area of departmental expenditure. The extent of that pressure will be dependent on fuel price movements over the next 9 months.

However, for a number of years the Department has actively been pursuing good housekeeping policies in order to increase the energy efficiency of its buildings and reduce expenditure on fuel. In addition, recent staff moves have been to more modern, fit for purpose accommodation with lower running costs.

These efficiencies will help to limit the financial impact of the current fuel price rises.

In addition, the Department operates within a net VAT regime, whereby its budget is provided net of VAT and subsequent expenditure is reported net of VAT. As such fuel duty does not impact on the departmental budget.

Cost of Equal Pay Settlements

Mr O’Loan asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel the cost of the recent equal pay settlement for Departments, broken down by Department or Agency. (AQW 8490/08)

Mr N Dodds: The extent of the potential costs for the settlement of the equal pay claim will ultimately depend on the outcome of discussions between officials and the trade unions and on the approach approved by the Executive. Details of any potential settlement will be progressed over the coming months and an exact figure will not be available until this process has concluded.

Departmental Underspend

Mr Moutray asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what measures are being put in place to reduce the level of underspend in Departments. (AQW 8497/08)

Mr N Dodds: Although primarily responsibility for the level of underspend rests with individual Accounting Officers, my officials continue to work with all departments in seeking to improve financial management across the Northern Ireland public sector, including a programme of actions over the short and medium term to ensure that the recommendations from the independent PKF review were being implemented.

Although the steps that have been taken so far to improve financial management skills and raise the priority given to financial issues may not yet have had sufficient time to impact on the outturn figures for 2007-08, the expectation is that they will have a greater impact on the level of underspend for 2008-09 and beyond. However, these may not be enough and further options need to be considered to provide a stronger incentive for improved performance.

Redevelopment of the Maze/Long Kesh site

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to outline all his Department’s expenditure on the redevelopment of the Maze/Long Kesh site. (AQW 8528/08)

Mr N Dodds: While the Department of Finance and Personnel has, in the normal course of business, had a role in considering the proposals for the redevelopment of the Maze/Long Kesh site, it has not incurred any additional expenditure in order to do so.

Civil Service Staff Specialisms

Mr Burnside asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel (i) what processes are used to establish the areas of expertise required within the Northern Ireland civil service over the next ten years; (ii) what strategies are in place to better match departmental requirements to specialisms among existing staff, through retraining and secondment; and (iii) how the profile of specialisms required over the next ten years is matched to recruitment planning. (AQW 8588/08)

Mr N Dodds: Responsibility for identifying the needs of specialisms falls mainly to Heads of Profession (including nominated Professional Representatives), who work closely with Central Personnel Group in the Department of Finance and Personnel in considering appropriate mechanisms for meeting those needs.

Through the NI Civil Service response to the recently published Sector Skills Strategy for Central Government, Heads of Profession have been challenged to accept and deliver on a substantial new set of accountabilities, setting professional skills standards for their members, working with departments to understand supply and demand and to influence professional career progression, support their members in professional development, and linking attainment to standards and qualifications recognised in the wider labour market.

The process and period over which needs are identified varies across each of the specialisms. For example, fluctuations in demand across the ICT specialism has varied over the last decade and as the pace of technology change is rapid, identifying needs over a 10 year period would not be appropriate. For other specialisms, where the level of change would be less marked, a longer period may be more appropriate. Heads of Profession work closely with their Whitehall counterparts to identify trends and keep a close watch on the local market through various means such as the Department for Employment and Learning’s Labour Market Survey.

Heads of Profession also have a key role in determining appropriate strategies to match departmental needs to specialisms amongst existing staff. In undertaking this role, Heads of Profession work closely with departments to determine their requirements and using this information develop appropriate recruitment responses.

All Departments provide annual forecasts of their future staffing needs as part of the planning of external and internal competitions which includes the highlighting of any particular specialist areas which will require staff in the coming year.

For example, the Financial Management Head of Profession identified a need for accountants which was not being met due to local demand. Working closely with departmental Finance Directors and Central Personnel Group, a trainee accountant scheme was developed which provides the opportunity for existing staff to qualify as accountants. Entry numbers for the scheme are determined in line with forecast needs.

In common with general service grades, secondment opportunities for specialist staff are administered through the existing secondment policy.

Peace II Funding

Ms J McCann asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what steps his Department is taking to carry out an evaluation of the services that will be lost in the community and voluntary sector as a result of Peace II funding coming to an end. (AQW 8623/08)

Mr N Dodds: DFP is not accountable for any measure of the PEACE II Programme directly implemented by the Community and Voluntary Sector. It therefore has no plans to undertake an evaluation of the kind proposed.

All groups assisted under PEACE II were required to specify how, if at all, they intended to continue their projects when their PEACE funding ended. All groups that have received PEACE II funding for a project should therefore be clear on the future of that project and the activities it supports.

Maze/Long Kesh Outline Business Case

Ms J McCann asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel if his Department’s officials had access to all the relevant information when considering the value for money case in relation to the Maze/Long Kesh outline business case. (AQW 8624/08)

Mr N Dodds: When considering the Maze/Long Kesh (MLK) Outline Business Case (OBC), DFP officials had access to a range of information including the overall MLK OBC, supporting OBCs for the International Centre for Conflict Transformation (ICCT), the stadium and the associated infrastructure; the business plans for the ICCT and the stadium; further exchanges of correspondence between DFP and the two Departments seeking clarification of matters arising from the DFP analysis; and further information relating to the assessment of the MLK site valuations and market tested bids.

DFP officials would expect Departments to provide all the information relevant to a proposal which they are submitting to DFP for consideration and, in this case, DFP sought clarification and further information on a range of issues. However, it was and remains the responsibility of the lead Departments concerned to provide DFP with all relevant information when submitting a business case and DFP officials can assess a proposal only on the basis of the information provided.

Corporation Tax for Northern Ireland

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the current policy on a differential rate of corporation tax for Northern Ireland. (AQW 8630/08)

Mr N Dodds: Responsibility for corporation tax lies with the UK Government. The first Varney Report ruled out a differential rate of corporation tax for Northern Ireland and the second Varney report rejected further proposed fiscal measures. The Varney conclusions have been accepted by the UK Government. The Northern Ireland Executive will continue to press for a lower rate of corporation tax for Northern Ireland however there is also a need to focus attention on what the Executive can do, within its own policy remit, to promote economic development within Northern Ireland.

Corporation Tax for Northern Ireland

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the representation made to the UK Treasury in relation to a differential rate of corporation tax for Northern Ireland, since the publication of the Varney I report. (AQW 8631/08)

Mr N Dodds: The first Varney Report rejected the case for a differential rate of corporation tax for Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Executive responded to the Varney Report and made representations to the second review in the area of fiscal measures however Sir David’s second report ruled out additional fiscal measures relating to R&D and skills. The two Varney Reports have now been accepted by the UK Government. While we will continue to press for a lower rate of corporation tax we should also focus on the policy levers directly available to the Executive.

Civil Service Child Care Voucher Scheme

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel what progress has been made on the Northern Ireland Civil Service Child Care Voucher Scheme. (AQW 8675/08)

Mr N Dodds: The Northern Ireland Civil Service is committed to introducing a salary sacrifice childcare voucher scheme and work has been underway for sometime to ensure that it can be delivered as part of the new payroll system which will become operational later this year.

Health, Social Services and Public Safety

Departmental Policies

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to list the policies produced by his Department since taking up his Ministerial post. (AQW 7837/08)

The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Mr M McGimpsey): My Department has introduced policies on the following issues: Exclusion of cleaning services from the scope of PFI project procurements in health and social care services;

Car parking guidance for Trusts;

Policy on Recruitment of doctors in training;

Oral Health Strategy for NI;

Local Decontamination Policy for General Practice Dentists;

School Dental Screening;

Student Nursing Bursaries;

Nursing care standards for patient food in hospitals;

Clinical supervision of nurses;

Nursing response to children with complex physical healthcare needs;

Improving cleanliness in hospitals and reducing healthcare acquired infections, including specific hand hygiene, hospital visiting and regional dress strategies;

Improved workforce productivity;

Equality, Good Relations and human rights strategy and action plan;

The future of Pathology Services in NI;

Transport Strategy for Health & Social Care Services in NI;

Single Rooms Policy;

Improving Stroke services in NI;

Immunisation against papilloma virus which causes cervical cancer;

Introduction of bowel cancer screening;

Introduction of screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm;

Screening of newborns for Medium Chain Acetyl Co A Dehydrogenase Deficiency;

Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups;

Families Matter – supporting families in NI;

Sexual Violence;

Care Standards for Nursing & Residential Care homes;

Review of Public Administration – Reform of Health & Social Care Services;

New hospital for South West to be built near Enniskillen;

Enhanced local hospital to be built at Omagh;

Zero Tolerance to attacks on Health & Social Care staff;

Nurses pay;

Junior Doctors Recruitment;

Recruitment of learning disability nurses;

Suicide Prevention – introduction of help line;

Cardiovascular Framework;

All Island Mental Health Promotion;

Dental Contract;

Integrated Clinical Assessment and Treatment Service;

Diabetic Retinopathy Screening; and

Tobacco: Age of Sale

In addition, to inform policy production the Department has established the following reviews:

Autism

Heart Screening

Free Prescriptions

Artwork

Brain Injury Unit Admissions

Adult Training Centres

Mr Bresland asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the Adult Training Centres funded by his Department which cater for people with learning difficulties; and (ii) the amount of funding received by each centre, in each of the last 4 years. (AQW 8095/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My Department does not make funding allocations directly to Adult Training Centres (ATCs). The responsibility for operational matters rests with the Health and Social Care Trusts and any funding allocations to ATCs is made by them.

The table below details the ATCs by HSCT area and the funding allocated by financial year 2005/2006 to 2008/2009.

Trust	Adult Training Centres	05/06 £	06/07 £	07/08 £	08/09 £
Northern	Mountfern	494,026	514,414	550,471	667,632
	Millbrook	793,233	838,475	752,124	799,557
	Cookstown	388,796	376,083	410,138	471,550
	Magherafelt	388,843	388,532	415,923	480,525
	Antrim	433,204	442,697	478,042	470,336
	George Sloan	436,501	440,745	463,371	495,132
	Broadway	243,390	243,549	239,425	263,790
	Drumross	493,006	498,616	543,153	582,081
	Hawthorns	383,656	385,057	404,197	430,539
	Larne	476,332	497,262	532,741	540,008
Western	Willow Group	53,066	65,117	67,107	69,598
	Greenhaw	68,026	89,615	91,053	96,017
	Lilliput	67,076	63,522	63,934	69,794
	Benbradagh	304,904	377,515	419,140	481,652
	Valley Centre	141,520	156,441	158,383	165,890
	Pilot Row	67,874	82,118	94,770	110,520
	Sow & Grow	68,108	59,684	77,413	67,451
	Evergreen	163,740	180,510	170,929	217,295
	Glenside	314,001	371,001	404,097	432,204
	Maybrook	566,944	628,379	681,206	701,518
	Lackabuoy (inc. Sat. Units)	1,075,824	1,106,614	1,172,715	1,204,153
	Omagh Centre (inc. Sat. Units)	879,213	861,283	899,852	923,994
Southern	Newry SEC	439,564	443,972	446,630	529,262
	Crossmaglen SEC	37,358	38,687	38,648	46,339
	Laurels Day Care Centre	231,199	238,562	239,041	275,134
	Newry Horticulture Centre	80,864	81,455	83,368	97,837
	Bannvale SEC	721,261	753,171	812,670	872,280
	Zest Coffee Shop	64,005	63,634	67,463	78,853
	Eden SEC	261,592	273,890	291,572	321,306
	Bannvale Horticulture Centre	62,123	57,799	58,205	64,672
	Banbridge SEC	164,568	167,056	176,859	193,297
	Appleby SEC	646,209	658,170	703,364	741,674
	Oakridge SEC	411,713	413,581	495,720	543,191
	Satellite Units: Unit 2/16	6,436	7,185	7,185	7,659
	Aughnacloy	132,675	134,891	137,088	142,913
	Coalisland	77,738	76,272	79,741	84,803
Belfast1	Orchardville	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Edgecumbe	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Suffolk	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Fortwilliam	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Everton	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Mica Drive	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Fallswater	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
	Mount Oriel	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
South Eastern2	Mountview ARC	1,000,691	1,043,018	N/A	N/A
	Lisburn ARC	977,361	1,030,038	N/A	N/A
	Ravara TRC	386,799	400,675	N/A	N/A
	Ards TRC	197,056	212,651	N/A	N/A
	Balloo TRC	363,279	388,139	N/A	N/A

 

Source: HSCTs

Notes:

SEC - Social Education Centre

ARC – Assesssment and Resource Centre

TRC – Training and Resource Centre

N/A1 – Data not available within the timescale available

N/A2 – Budgetary information is not yet available

The definition of ATCs may vary between HSCTs.

Departmental Underspends

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, given the underspend of £54.8 million by his Department, what measures will be put in place to ensure that such large underspends do not occur again. (AQW 8113/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I refer the member to the answer I gave to AQ 7944/08.

Community Carers in Ards

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why community carers have been removed from people living in Ards who previously benefited from this service. (AQW 8118/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Health and Social Care Trusts are responsible for assessing and prioritising needs within the resources available to them. The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has advised that the Trust is systematically reviewing community care services provided in order to ensure consistency of approach for service provision across the new Trust area and to ensure that the time of care workers is focused on clients whose needs and risks are greatest. According to the Trust, in the Ards locality 52 people have had a reduction in services since the review commenced in May 2008 and 32 new domiciliary care packages have commenced.

Waiting Time for Hearing Aids

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the current average time for a new adult patient to receive a hearing aid from the time of referral by the GP, in each Health and Social Care Trust area. (AQW 8128/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on (1) the current average time for a new adult patient to receive a hearing aid from the time of referral by the GP, in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8128/08), (2) the number of people waiting for a first fitting for a hearing aid in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8129/08), (3) the current average waiting time for an adult to be re-assessed and to have their hearing aid fitting reviewed in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8130/08), and (4) the number of adults waiting for re-assessment for a hearing aid in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8131/08) is not available centrally.

Waiting Time for Hearing Aids

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people are waiting for a first fitting for a hearing aid in each Health and Social Care Trust area. (AQW 8129/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on (1) the current average time for a new adult patient to receive a hearing aid from the time of referral by the GP, in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8128/08), (2) the number of people waiting for a first fitting for a hearing aid in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8129/08), (3) the current average waiting time for an adult to be re-assessed and to have their hearing aid fitting reviewed in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8130/08), and (4) the number of adults waiting for re-assessment for a hearing aid in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8131/08) is not available centrally.

Waiting Time for Hearing Aids

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the current average waiting time for an adult to be re-assessed and to have their hearing aid fitting reviewed, in each Health and Social Care Trust area. (AQW 8130/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on (1) the current average time for a new adult patient to receive a hearing aid from the time of referral by the GP, in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8128/08), (2) the number of people waiting for a first fitting for a hearing aid in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8129/08), (3) the current average waiting time for an adult to be re-assessed and to have their hearing aid fitting reviewed in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8130/08), and (4) the number of adults waiting for re-assessment for a hearing aid in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8131/08) is not available centrally.

Waiting Time for Hearing Aids

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many adults are waiting for re-assessment for a hearing aid in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas. (AQW 8131/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on (1) the current average time for a new adult patient to receive a hearing aid from the time of referral by the GP, in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8128/08), (2) the number of people waiting for a first fitting for a hearing aid in each Health and Social Care Trust area (AQW 8129/08), (3) the current average waiting time for an adult to be re-assessed and to have their hearing aid fitting reviewed in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8130/08), and (4) the number of adults waiting for re-assessment for a hearing aid in each of the Health and Social Care Trust areas (AQW 8131/08) is not available centrally.

Breast Cancer Care

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what measures are in place to review breast cancer care and the effectiveness of mammogram tests, particularly given the evidence produced last year of a significant number of errors that occurred in mammogram tests in the Republic of Ireland. (AQW 8132/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: In Northern Ireland a breast cancer clinical network has been established under the auspices of the Northern Ireland Cancer Network, which is responsible for progressing key priorities within symptomatic breast cancer services, keeping up to date with new policies and guidelines and the monitoring and evaluation of the service to ensure quality.

The breast screening service which routinely uses mammography to screen women with no symptoms for early signs of disease also has a robust quality assurance system in place; each mammogram is read by two individuals and by a third if there is a difference of opinion.

Results of the screening programme in Northern Ireland are quality assured through the comparison of results elsewhere in the UK. In addition, the quality assurance reference centre monitors data from the breast screening service on a regular basis and publishes results annually. It also organises regular external quality assurance visits.

Waiting Times for Dermatology Out-Patient Appointments

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the average waiting times for dermatology out-patient appointments for (i) suspected melanomas; (ii) extreme forms of eczema; and (iii) skin disorders. (AQW 8154/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on average waiting times for dermatology outpatient appointments for (i) suspected melanomas; (ii) extreme forms of ecezema; and (ii) skin disorders is not available.

Prosecution Figures Following the Smoking Ban

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many (i) individuals; (ii) bars/restaurants; and (iii) other buildings, have been prosecuted since the introduction of the smoking ban. (AQW 8158/08)

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. In addition, 34 fixed penalty notices and 350 written warnings have been issued in respect of this offence.

No prosecutions have been brought against the owners/managers of bars, restaurants or other buildings. However, 1 fixed penalty notice and 386 written warnings have been issued for failing to display no smoking signage and 355 written warnings issued for failing to prevent smoking in a smoke-free place.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 8159/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The total cost incurred by the Department on away days and team building exercises in DHSSPS in each of the last five years is as follows:

	2003/ 04	2004/ 05	2005/ 06	2006/ 07	2007/ 08
Total cost of staff away days	£19,735	£14,719	£30,082	£31,799	£21,260
Total cost of team building exercises	£17,000	£7,516	£11,037	£3,122	£8,339
Total	£36,735	£22,235	£41,119	£34,921	£29,599

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years. (AQW 8161/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of staff hours taken up with departmental or cross – departmental away days, or team – building exercises, in each of the last five years is as follows:

	2003/ 04	2004/ 05	2005/ 06	2006/ 07	2007/ 08
Away Days Staff Hours	1417	1479	3124	3069	2718
Team Building Exercises Staff Hours	1083	690	807	539	473

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many away days and team-building exercises have been organised by his Department for departmental staff in each of the last five years. (AQW 8162/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of away days and team building exercises organised by DHSSPS for departmental staff in each of the last five years is as follows:

	2003/ 04	2004/ 05	2005/ 06	2006/ 07	2007/ 08
Total number of away days	19	20	20	28	27
Total number of team building exercises	8	5	4	4	5

 

Colorectal Consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many colorectal consultants were based at the Altnagelvin Hospital in each of the last 10 years; and for how much of this time there was only one surgeon within this specialty located at Altnagelvin Hospital. (AQW 8173/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on the number of Colorectal Consultants based at the Altnagelvin Hospital in each of the last ten years is given in the table below.

Table 1: Number of Colorectal Consultants based at the Altnagelvin Hospital over the last ten years.

Year	Headcount	WTE
2008 (June)	2	2.0
2007*	2	2.0
2006	1	1.0
2005	1	1.0
2004*	2	2.0
2003	2	2.0
2002	2	2.0
2001	2	2.0
2000*	2	2.0
1999	1	1.0

 

Source: Western Health & Social Care Trust

Note: WTE = Whole-Time Equivalent.

* There was only one Colorectal Consultant employed at Altnagelvin Hospital prior to 1 August 2000, and between February 2004 and October 2007. Currently there are two Colorectal Consultants employed at Altnagelvin Hospital.

Colorectal Consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, given the difficulties of recruiting colorectal surgeons to Altnagelvin Hospital in the past, what action he is taking to ensure that a new team can be recruited at the hospital in time to prevent a diminution of the service; and what plans there are for the treatment of patients within the Altnagelvin catchment area, pending the establishment of a new team. (AQW 8174/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The recruitment and retention of staff is a matter for individual Health and Social Care Trusts.

The Western HSC Trust has advised that a recruitment exercise is underway to replace the two colorectal surgeons who recently resigned from their positions at Altnagelvin Hospital. In the interim two locum consultant surgeons will be employed and any further arrangements necessary to maintain care for patients during this transitional period will be addressed by the Western HSC Trust.

Colorectal Consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what is considered the minimum number of whole time equivalent consultants in colorectal surgery required at Altnagelvin Hospital, to create the necessary critical mass to reduce risk and workload, and to provide the necessary spread of expertise in order to maintain a safe and effective long term service. (AQW 8175/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of staff required to maintain a particular service is a matter for individual Health and Social Care Trusts.

There is no definitive statement on the minimal number of colorectal consultants required. In assessing the need for staffing, trusts will take account of the service requirements, caseloads, patient safety, quality standards and working conditions.

The Western HSC Trust has advised that a total of two colorectal surgeons are an appropriate critical mass to provide services within this speciality at Altnagelvin.

Colorectal Consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make a statement on the resignation of two colorectal consultants from Altnagelvin Hospital; and given that the resignations coincide with the resignation of a haematology consultant, whether his Department intends to conduct an inquiry into their reasons for leaving and the intentions of the remaining consultants at the hospital. (AQW 8176/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: It would not be appropriate for me to comment on the employment matters of individual members of staff. I understand that the Western Trust has initiated arrangements for the recruitment of two consultant surgeons. The Department has no plans to conduct an inquiry into their reasons for leaving and the intentions of the remaining consultants at the hospital.

Colorectal Consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether any of the consultant colorectal surgeons at Altnagelvin Hospital had discussions with senior Health and Social Care Trust management, during which management was urged to recruit additional consultants to the specialty; and what was the response of the Health and Social Care Trust. (AQW 8177/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Western Health and Social Care Trust has advised that it did have discussions with the consultant colorectal surgeons prior to their resignations, however the recruitment of additional consultants to the specialty was not the focus of these discussions.

Home Help Service

Mrs McGill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 7239/08, what changes and/or reduction, there has been in the profile of services previously provided by Home Helps to clients in the district; and (ii) how many clients have had their Home Help Service completely withdrawn because of the Home Help job description changes in the district. (AQW 8178/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Western Health and Social Care Trust have advised that all clients are assessed/reassessed applying the WHSSB Domiciliary Care Access Criteria and services are provided according to the level of assessed need. In addition the Trust has confirmed that there has been no change in the profile of services provided by the Trust to clients who have an identified assessed need. The Trust has a duty to use resources effectively and manage within the allocations for the provision of Domiciliary Care services.

The Trust has further advised that no one, who has an assessed need, has had their services terminated as a result of change in Home Help job description and indeed there has been no change to the Home Help job description.

HIV Figures

Mr Burns asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many cases of HIV have been diagnosed in people under the age of 16, in each of the last 5 years, broken down by Health Board. (AQW 8206/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Less than 5 people under the age of 16 were recorded as being newly diagnosed with HIV over the last 5 years for which information is available (2003 to 2007).

In order to protect the confidentiality of individuals this information cannot be further disaggregated to Health Board or Individual year of diagnosis level.

Departmental IT Equipment

Mr Burns asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how much money has been spent on IT equipment and services by his Department in each of the last 5 years; and what percentage of his Department’s budget these figures represent for each year. (AQW 8207/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The table below shows the expenditure on IT equipment and services by the Department in each of the last 5 years, and the percentage of the Department’s total budget (revenue and capital spend) in those years that this represented.

Year	Expenditure on IT equipment & services	Percentage of total DHSSPS budget
2003-2004	£8,251,000	0.3%
2004-2005	£12,626,000	0.4%
2005-2006	£11,047,000	0.3%
2006-2007	£15,433,000	0.4%
2007-2008	£17,474,000	0.4%

 

Minor Injuries Unit at Ards Community Hospital

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he will make a decision in relation to the future of the Minor Injuries Unit at Ards Community Hospital. (AQW 8264/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I refer the member to the answers I gave to AQW 4357/08 and 6452/08.

A final decision on the South Eastern Trust’s proposal in respect of the minor injuries unit at Ards Community Hospital will not be taken until all the implications are clearly established.

Adolescent Psychiatric Unit at the Forster Green Hospital

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he first became aware of concerns relating to the security and public safety associated with the proposed Adolescent Psychiatric Unit at the Forster Green Hospital; and when the Health Committee brought the matter to his attention. (AQW 8265/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I became aware of concerns about possible security and public safety issues with the proposed Adolescent Unit at Forster Green Hospital in August 2007.

The Health Committee brought these matters to my attention in your letter of 28 March 2008.

Funding for the Enler Project

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for a list of people who were officially invited to Ballybeen on Monday 10 March 2008 for the announcement of funding for the Enler Project. (AQW 8267/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: DHSSPS did not issue any formal invitations to the event in Ballybeen on the 10 March, however the Mayor of Ards and local MLA’s were informed about the visit.

Colorectal Consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what other medical specialties and services will be affected as a result of the future loss of the 2 colorectal consultants at Altnagelvin Hospital. (AQW 8274/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: At this stage the Western Health and Social Care Trust does not anticipate that other specialties or services will be affected by the resignation of the two colorectal consultants.

Bed Occupancy Rate at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what is the target bed occupancy rate; and what the (i) peak; and (ii) average, bed occupancy rate was for each of the last 12 months at Altnagelvin Hospital. (AQW 8275/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: There is currently no official target relating to bed occupancy rates in hospitals in Northern Ireland. However, in planning for future hospital-based activity, Trusts are required to apply a number of efficiency assumptions. In relation to bed occupancy levels, Trusts are asked assume 83% occupancy for all specialties except critical care (75%), obstetrics (75%), paediatrics (65%), and assessment and rehabilitation (95%).

The peak and average bed occupancy rates for each of the last 12 months, at Altnagelvin Hospital, are shown in the table below.

Month	Average Available Beds1,2	Peak Occupancy Rate (%)	Average Occupancy Rate (%)
Jun-07	504.3	89.8	84.1
Jul-07	505.3	93.2	82.9
Aug-07	502.9	88.9	82.0
Sep-07	503.2	88.8	82.0
Oct-07	502.3	90.2	84.3
Nov-07	510.7	89.7	84.1
Dec-07	499.5	90.3	80.7
Jan-08	511.4	95.4	87.9
Feb-08	506.9	91.7	84.5
Mar-08	503.7	93.9	86.6
Apr-08	506.5	93.4	82.5
May-08	499.4	86.3	79.7

 

Source: Western Health and Social Care Trust

1 Available and Occupied Beds includes cots occupied by healthy babies.

2 Average available beds are the number of beds in wards open overnight, measured at midnight. Day case beds and those for regular day admission are not included.

Day Case Beds at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many (i) beds are in the day case unit at Altnagelvin Hospital; and (ii) day case beds are occupied by in-patients; and what the impact is on day cases. (AQW 8277/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: During May 2008, there were on average 30 available beds in the day case unit at Altnagelvin Hospital. There was one inpatient occupying a day case bed for one night during May 2008. This had no impact on day case services.

Source: Western Health and Social Care Trust

Capitation Formula Review Group

Mr O’Loan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether the large influx of holidaymakers and those attending special events is reflected in the Capitation Formula award to the Northern Health Board area and whether this is expressed in the Fifth Report of the Capitation Formula Review Group. (AQW 8284/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Regional Capitation Formula assesses the health and social care needs of long-term residents of each area of Northern Ireland. Data on short term population changes, of less than a single year’s duration, is not deemed robust enough to amend the formula. As such no changes have been recommended as part of the current review.

For holidaymakers and short stay visitors to Northern Ireland from elsewhere, international agreements are in place.

Waiting Times for Laboratory Results in the Causeway Hospital

Mr McClarty asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what are the turnaround times for laboratory results in the Causeway Hospital, and how do these compare to their allocated timescales. (AQW 8288/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The information requested is not available.

Eye Operations at the South Tyrone Hospital

Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the future for eye operations at the South Tyrone hospital. (AQW 8289/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: South Tyrone Hospital currently provides an ophthalmology day case service and will continue to do so.

Altnagelvin Hospital Accident and Emergency Unit

Mr P Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the protocol at Altnagelvin Hospital Accident and Emergency Unit for patients presenting with symptoms of stroke; and what the recommended timescales are for commencement of appropriate treatment. (AQW 8301/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: All patients presenting at Altnagelvin Accident and Emergency Department are triaged according to clinical need.

Those with symptoms suggestive of Stroke are seen urgently and, after stabilisation, where possible will be transferred to the Stroke Unit for further management.

Urgent CT scanning will also be performed on the basis of clinical status.

Alcohol and Drug Related Injuries in Accident and Emergency Units

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many (i) alcohol; and (ii) drug, related injuries have been presented in accident and emergency units in each of the last 12 months. (AQW 8306/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on the number of alcohol and drug related injuries that have been presented in accident and emergency units in each of the last 12 months is unavailable.

Craigavon Area Hospital

Mr O’Dowd asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what actions are being taken to raise hygiene standards in Craigavon Area Hospital following the findings of an unannounced inspection by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) on 7 March 2008. (AQW 8311/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The programme of unannounced inspections is one element of a package of measures which I set out in January, along with an additional investment of £9 million. This package also includes funding for rapid response cleaning teams for hospitals across Northern Ireland.

Following the unannounced inspection of Craigavon Area Hospital, the Southern Trust has developed an action plan to address issues raised. For each of the RQIA’s findings the Trust has identified the lead person responsible and a timescale to action recommendations.

Arrangements have been put in place to further improve the communication and understanding between nursing and cleaning staff on the infection control status of any given ward at the start of each shift.

The Trust continues to monitor the standard of cleaning in all areas using the Environmental Cleanliness Tool Kit. All areas are audited in accordance with their agreed risk status. Following every audit any areas of concern are highlighted and actioned by appropriate staff. The Trust also undertakes managerial audits and this audit team includes a member from the Southern Health Council.

Waiting Times for Restorative Dentistry

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the average waiting time for people requiring restorative dentistry in each of the last 3 years. (AQW 8314/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Information on the number of patients waiting for an outpatient appointment in the restorative dentistry specialty at 31 March 2006, 31 March 2007 and 31 March 2008, broken down by timeband is shown in the table. The median (average) timeband at 31 March 2006 was 9-11 months and was 0-2 months at 31 March 2007 and 31 March 2008.

	Date	31-Mar-06	31-Mar-07	31-Mar-08
Months waiting	0-2	316	970	861
	03-May	292	487	0
	06-Aug	283	0	0
	09-Nov	169	0	0
	Dec-14	83	0	0
	15-17	77	0	0
	18-20	75	0	0
	21-23	57	0	0
	24+	445	0	0
	Total	1,797	1,457	861

 

Underage Drinking

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people aged 17 and under have been admitted to hospital with an alcohol related condition in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency. (AQW 8329/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of people aged 17 and under who have been admitted to hospital with an alcohol related condition in the last 3 years, by parliamentary constituency is detailed below:

Parliamentary Constituency	2004/ 2005	2005/ 2006	2006/ 2007
Unassigned	<5	<5	<5
Belfast East	14	17	<5
Belfast North	10	14	16
Belfast South	14	21	12
Belfast West	20	14	23
East Antrim	<5	<5	5
East Londonderry	5	8	<5
Fermanagh and South Tyrone	9	10	19
Foyle	13	9	6
Lagan Valley	<5	5	5
Mid Ulster	20	6	8
Newry And Armagh	19	15	20
North Antrim	13	7	8
North Down	8	11	<5
South Antrim	10	7	15
South Down	19	8	19
Strangford	16	11	7
Upper Bann	28	24	30
West Tyrone	16	12	12
Total	244	205	215

 

Source: Hospital Inpatient System

Individuals are approximated by matching cases on date of birth and postcode and have been calculated on a yearly basis. These figures should not be added together to give total individuals across the years as an individual may have been admitted in more than one year.

Lagan Valley Hospital

Mr Poots asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what requirement he will place on the South Eastern Trust to compensate the adjoining Trusts for the proposed displacement of services from the Lagan Valley Hospital. (AQW 8356/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The allocation of funding for health and social care services, including maternity services, is a matter for Health and Social Services Boards. I would expect Boards and Trusts to assess the financial and other implications of any proposed changes to the current provision of maternity services at Lagan Valley Hospital before any decisions are taken.

Prescription Charges

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to explain why (i) repeat prescription charges have been reduced to 2 months from 3 months; and (ii) a cost of £8 per prescription is being charged. (AQW 8359/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: (i) The Department does not have a policy on the length of time for which a repeat prescription may be issued. However it is considered good practice for a GP surgery to put in place a repeat prescription protocol. Some GPs have chosen 56 days for the default length of treatment for each repeat prescription. In other situations, for example, as part of the repeat dispensing scheme, the interval is reduced to 28 days. For some drugs, this may be even shorter. This interval is entirely at the discretion of the GP and no regional policy exists for length of treatment.

(ii) There are no prescription items that currently cost £8. As you are aware I have undertaken a review of prescription charges in Northern Ireland and pending the outcome of the review I decided to freeze charges at £6.85 for a single item from 1 April 2008. As I advised in the Assembly in 2 June 2008 I will shortly make an announcement on the way forward.

Prescription Charges

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what discussions he has had with his Welsh counterpart in relation to the reduction of prescription charges; and what action he is taking to introduce similar changes in policy. (AQW 8360/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I met with Edwina Hart, the Welsh Minister for Health and Social Services, on 3 April 2008. The issue of the abolition of prescription charges and the subsequent health benefits to patients was discussed at this meeting. Officials from my Department have also been in contact with their counterparts in Wales on a regular basis on this issue.

Ambulances in the Strangford Constituency

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps he is taking to ensure that funding is secured to replace ambulances in the Strangford constituency. (AQW 8361/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I refer the member to the answer I gave to AQW 7737/08 on 19 June 2008. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service fleet is managed as a regional resource and it is for NIAS to determine where they base new ambulances having regard to the age and condition of existing ambulances and operational requirements.

Attacks on Fire Appliances

Mr McKay asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many attacks there have been on (i) fire appliances; and (ii) fire fighters, in the North Antrim constituency in (a) 2005; (b) 2006; and (c) 2007; and the financial cost of the damage. (AQW 8368/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The numbers of reported attacks on fire appliances in the North Antrim constituency over the last 3 financial years are:-

2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
1	2	1

 

The total cost of the damage is estimated at approximately £2,200.

There have been no reported attacks which resulted in an injury to a firefighter in the last 3 years in the North Antrim constituency.

Mileage for Ambulances

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the average mileage of currently operational ambulances. (AQW 8377/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has a total fleet of 237 ambulances. The average mileage of an ambulance is 117,604.

Average Age of Ambulances

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the average age of currently operational ambulances. (AQW 8378/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The average age of the 237ambulances within the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) fleet is 5.22 years.

Impact of Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the impact of fuel cost rises on the running costs and budgets of healthcare facilities. (AQW 8394/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I recognise that it is important that all practicable steps are taken to ensure that the recent increases in fuel and duty costs have minimal impact on the provision of health and social care services. My Department is currently considering the impact of the recent increases on the Departmental budget.

It is an integral part of the financial management of health and social care facilities and services that all cost increases, whether or not they are foreseeable, are managed within available resources.

Similarly all organisations will be expected to achieve the levels of efficiencies to which they have committed, irrespective of fluctuations in particular cost categories. I am determined that, when delivering these efficiencies, the quality of services to patients and clients is to be maintained or improved and targeted to those most in need.

Impact of Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what he is doing to address the differential impact of fuel cost increases on community-based healthcare workers, particularly those with high mileage. (AQW 8395/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: As an interim measure, from 1 January 2008 I have increased by 3p per mile the mileage rate payable to Health and Social Care staff that are classified as regular users. My officials are also engaged in a four country review of the mileage rates which is currently being carried out in partnership with the nationally recognised health unions. This group is due to make recommendations shortly and I will consider these recommendations in due course.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people aged (i) 16-19; (ii) 20-24; (iii) 25-34; (iv) 35-44; and (v) 45 and over, were diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in each of the last 3 years. (AQW 8402/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of people aged (i) 16-19; (ii) 20-24; (iii) 25-34; (iv) 35-44; and (v) 45 and over who were diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in each of the last 3 years is given in the table below.

	2004	2005	2006
16-19	682	723	755
20-24	1545	1742	1868
25-34	1195	1367	1414
35-44	379	408	412
45+	116	135	150

 

Source: CDSC (NI)

Notes: This is the number of new diagnoses, not the number of people
with a new diagnosis of an STI, as multiple diagnoses can be made in individual patients.

This is the number of new diagnoses for the five main conditions in Northern Ireland combined; which includes Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis, Genital Herpes and Genital Warts.

Young People with Learning Disabilities

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what progress has been made in meeting the needs of young people with learning disabilities during the period of transition from schooling to the workforce. (AQW 8405/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My Department invested £0.9m through the Children and Young People Funding Package from 2006 to 2008 in support of transitions services for young people. Arrangements are now in place for that investment to continue, through the Department’s normal budgetary mechanisms, with effect from April 2008. A range of transition services have been developed across all 5 Health and Social Care Trust areas.

My Department continues to liaise with the Department for Education and the Department for Employment and Learning in further developing transition services for young people.

Ambulance Fleet

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety on how many occasions the number of available vehicles in the total ambulance fleet was less than the number required by planned crews at any time in each of the last 5 years. (AQW 8421/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) do not maintain records for the information requested.

Where a particular ambulance is not available at any time another ambulance is called up from within that ambulance division or from another division.

Ambulance Service Response Targets

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to his answer to AQW 101/07, for his assessment of the level of improvement by the Ambulance Service in meeting its response targets. (AQW 8424/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) had been set a target for 2007/08 year of 62.5% with respect to responding to category A (life-threatening calls) within 8 minutes. In 2008/09 the target for NIAS has been raised to 70%.

Performance against target is being monitored on a weekly basis. The table below details comparable monthly figures over the 3 year period ending with May 2008.

Month	Percentage of Category A Calls Responded to Within 8 Minutes
May 05	48.4%
May 06	52.4%
May 07	59.6%
May 08	69.5%

 

The percentage achieved for the month ending May 2008 is 69.5% representing a rise of almost 10% on the same period last year and more than 20% on the 2005 position. This represents significant and continuous improvement year on year.

Teleneurology service at Tyrone County Hospital

Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans he has for the retention of the Teleneurology service at Tyrone County Hospital. (AQW 8452/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: It is the responsibility of the Western Health and Social Services Board to commission health and social care services for the people of its area.

I understand that the Board is currently in the process of assessing the provision of neurology services to determine the most effective means of providing a high quality, sustainable neurology service for people living in the Board area. This will include consideration of teleneurology services.

Independent Transport Network

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, in light of increasing fuel prices, what action he is taking to ensure that the independent transport network, which supports day care services, remains viable. (AQW 8457/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My Department does not have a role in funding the independent transport network. However, whilst the majority of transport in support of day care services is provided internally either by the Health Trust concerned or by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service I am nonetheless aware that there is a valued contribution from the independent and voluntary sectors.

The Minister for Regional Development has informed me that his Department will continue to provide support to the Rural Transport Fund and the Door-to-Door Transport Scheme. While not their primary function, both these schemes transport passengers to day care services on a regular basis.

My Department is currently considering the impact of the recent increases in fuel prices and I recognise that it is important that all practicable steps are taken to ensure the continued viability of independent transport networks and so ensure that there is no reduction in the quality and breadth of day service provision.

Gynaecology Patients at Daisy Hill Hospital

Mrs Hanna asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he is taking to ensure that the conduct of the member of staff, who treated more than 300 gynaecology patients who are now being reviewed at Daisy Hill Hospital, is thoroughly investigated, and that lessons are learned from this episode. (AQW 8567/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Southern Health and Social Care Trust is undertaking a detailed review of the records of all patients seen by the member of staff in question. When that investigation has completed, it will be for the trust to determine the appropriate course of action. They have logged the case formally with my Department, in line with serious adverse incident reporting procedures. These procedures, together with guidance on conducting "look back" exercises, require the investigators to determine lessons learned from the incident.

Senior Staff in Craigavon and Banbridge Community Health and Social Services Trust

Mrs Hanna asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether senior II staff at the Craigavon and Banbridge Community Health and Social Services Trust, who have been banded with the podiatrist profile Band 5, can be reassessed for a profile Band 6. (AQW 8568/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: If an individual or a group of staff can demonstrate that the Agenda for Change grading they have been assigned to is incorrect they may request their employer to undertake a review of the grading. There are regionally agreed procedures in place for staff who wish to seek a review. These procedures are designed to ensure that such review requests are dealt with in a fair and objective manner and on a partnership basis. I understand that there have been no requests to the Southern HSC Trust for such a review from Senior ll Podiatrists employed in the former Craigavon and Banbridge HSS Trust and that the deadline for making such a request closed on 20 June 2008.

Neurological Patients at Musgrave Park Hospital

Mrs Hanna asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the facility for patients with neurological disorders at the Musgrave Park site; and if there are any plans to transfer patients with a neurological disorder from Forster Green Hospital to the Musgrave Park site. (AQW 8569/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: A business case for an interim facility to treat patients with neurological disorders at Musgrave Park Hospital was approved in May 2006. The design of the new facility was agreed in February 2008 and a contract is expected to go out to tender soon. I am advised by Belfast Health and Social Care Trust that the plan to transfer neurology patients to the new interim unit at Musgrave Park Hospital is on schedule and due to take place in June 2009.

Replacement Surgeons in Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline his strategy and timescale for replacing the 2 colorectal surgeons who recently resigned from the Altnagelvin Hospital. (AQW 8572/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The recruitment and retention of staff is a matter for individual Health and Social Care Trusts.

The Western HSC Trust has advised that a recruitment exercise is underway to replace the two colorectal surgeons who recently resigned from their positions at Altnagelvin Hospital. In the interim two locum consultant surgeons will be employed and any further arrangements necessary to maintain care for patients during this transitional period will be addressed by the Western HSC Trust.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what training GPs receive on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E. (AQW 8613/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) deliver, as part of the expanded curriculum for Northern Ireland, training for GP trainees in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. In their specialist training year 2 (ST2) there will be a case discussion specifically on patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

In their specialist training year 3 (ST3) in a GP training practice, they will also encounter patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. GPs can also request NIMDTA to arrange to deliver specific training on Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as part of Continuous Practice Development (CPD). It is also available as part of the British Medical Journal (BMJ) e-learning.

Specialist M.E. Clinics

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of specialist M.E. clinics. (AQW 8614/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: There is one specialist ME/CFS clinic in Northern Ireland based in the Belfast City Hospital.

M.E. Figures

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people have been diagnosed with M.E. and are (i) under the age of 18; and (ii) over the age of 18. (AQW 8615/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of people who have been diagnosed with M.E. is not currently available.

Belfast Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Clinic

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why the Belfast Chronic Fatigue Syndrome clinic is based in a psychiatric unit. (AQW 8616/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The specialist management and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) depends on those health professionals with a special interest and expertise in the condition. A medical ‘gatekeeper’ from a relevant specialty is required for the clinic. In the case of the Belfast City Hospital CFS clinic, this is a consultant psychiatrist and the clinic is held in the mental health facility in Windsor House. People with CFS/ME will of course access different specialties within the health and social care services, including GP care, community care and support, neurology and mental health services depending on their individual needs and severity of their illness.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans the Department has for biomedical research into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E. (AQW 8617/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Department has no immediate plans to fund biomedical research into Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/M.E.

Omagh Centre for People with Severe Learning Difficulties

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what alternative provisions will be put into place for those people that use the Omagh Centre for People with Severe Learning Difficulties, after the fire that occurred on Tuesday 24 June 2008. (AQW 8625/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Since Thursday 26th June, on a temporary basis, staff from the Day Care Centre have been providing community and domiciliary services to those clients where the need for those services has been expressed. Two alternative locations for temporary day care services which are appropriate to meet the needs of clients have been secured by the Western Health and Social Care Trust, Strathroy Community Centre and the Larch ‘C’ facility at the Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital. These temporary venues will be phased into operation during week commencing Monday 30th June and families will be notified of the appropriate arrangements in the coming days.

The Trust’s Estates Department is working vigorously to identify the period of time the Omagh Centre will be unavailable and will do everything possible to have the service fully reinstated as soon as possible.

Departmental Response to Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what assessment he has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action he has taken to mitigate against these increased costs. (AQW 8627/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I recognise that it is important that all practicable steps are taken to ensure that the recent increases in fuel and duty costs have minimal impact on the provision of health and social care services. My Department is currently considering the impact of the recent increases on the Departmental budget.

It is an integral part of the financial management of health and social care facilities and services that all cost increases, whether or not they are foreseeable, are managed within available resources.

Similarly all organisations will be expected to achieve the levels of efficiencies to which they have committed, irrespective of fluctuations in particular cost categories. I am determined that, when delivering these efficiencies, the quality of services to patients and clients is to be maintained or improved and targeted to those most in need.

Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has the power to carry out the same type of inspection and impose the same sanctions in both the independent and statutory sectors. (AQW 8654/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Yes, in relation to the regulation of establishments and agencies such as: children’s homes; day care settings for adults; nursing homes; residential care homes; residential family centres; domiciliary care agencies; nursing agencies and adult placement agencies.

Independent clinics, independent hospitals and independent medical agencies are also regulated by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA), and are subject to similar inspections, monitoring and sanctions.

The RQIA does not regulate or impose sanctions on statutory bodies such as Health and Social Services Trusts. However it has the power to: carry out reviews for the purpose of monitoring and improving the quality of the HPSS;

investigate the management, provision or quality of the HPSS;

inspect both statutory bodies and providers of services for which the HPSS has responsibility, in respect of the management, provision, quality or access to, or availability of, particular types of services; and

report and make recommendations to the Department where services are of an unacceptably poor quality or there are significant failings.

Consultant Appointments at Altnagelvin Hospital

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety pursuant to AQW 8293/08, to provide details for the years 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 of the numbers of patients who (i) had consultant appointments at Altnagelvin hospital; and (ii) of those patients, how many had further surgery or appointments at the hospital; and (iii) the total cost to the Western Health and Social Care Trust of providing those appointments/treatments. (AQW 8674/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The number of new outpatient appointments with a consultant at Altnagelvin Area hospital during 2006-07 and 2007-08 are contained in the table below.

Year	Number of new outpatient attendances	Number of new outpatient appointments which the patient did not attend (DNA)	Total number of new outpatient appointments
2006/07	52,070	5,862	57,932
2007/081	51,085	4,640	55,725

 

Source: Departmental Return KH09 (Part 1)

1 2007/08 data are provisional

It is not possible to identify the number of patients who attended a first outpatient appointment at Altnagelvin Area Hospital that subsequently had further surgery or appointments at the hospital. Consequently, it is not possible to identify the cost incurred by the Western Health and Social Care Trust in providing such appointments/treatments.

Erne Hospital in Enniskillen

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, further to his January 2008 investment of £9 million to reduce the spread of infections, (i) how much of this money has been invested in Erne Hospital, Enniskillen; (ii) what measures were in place at the Erne Hospital on and since 20 June 2008 to encourage staff and visitors to wash their hands; (iii) if a dress code for healthcare staff was in place at the Erne Hospital on and since 20 June 2008; and (iv) when unannounced inspections have been carried out at the Erne Hospital since January 2008. (AQW 8772/08)

Mr M McGimpsey:

(i) How much of the £9 million has been invested in Erne Hospital?

The £9 million investment I announced on 25 January 2008 for patient safety including infection control was for the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) period 2008/09, 2009/10 and 2010/2011 with the allocation broken down as follows;

2008/09	£2million
2009/10	£2 million
2010/11	£5 million
Total	£9 million

 

Of the £2 million available in 2008/09 the Department has reserved £570k for items that need to be commissioned and paid for centrally, including the regional hand hygiene campaign, and the unannounced inspections. The amounts to be allocated in year 2 and 3 have yet to be determined.

The remaining £1.43 million has been allocated to the Boards according to the Capitation Formula, with the exception of funding for the antimicrobial pharmacist posts which have been distributed equally between the Trusts.

The Western HSC Board received an allocation of £215,000 for distribution amongst the Trusts, of which £120,000 has been allocated to the Erne Hospital..

(ii) What measures were in place at the Erne Hospital on and since 20 June 2008 to encourage staff and visitors to wash their hands?

The Erne Hospital has implemented the Cleanyourhands Campaign sponsored by the Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety on 25 June 2008. Prior to joining this regional campaign the Trust have run hand hygiene campaigns annually to encourage staff and visitors to use the alcohol gel on entering and departing the wards

Alcohol gel dispensers have been and are available for staff and visitors to all wards and departments.

Prompts in the form of posters have been placed in wards and corridors.

A staff leaflet advising on the how and when to clean hands has been distributed to all staff with their pay slips (25 June 2008)

Electronic alert reminders have been placed on all PC’s within the Trust.

Observational hand hygiene audits are carried out by staff on wards.

Ward managers are responsible for ensuring foam hand sanitiser (alcohol hand rubs) are replenished, cleaned and recorded.

(iii) Implementation of a Dress Code Policy

On receipt of the Regional Dress Code Policy issued by the DHSSPS. The Western Trust is in the process of establishing a Steering Group to look at the implementation and impact of the policy. This group will develop an action plan to address the key standards and recommendations within the policy.

(iv) Unannounced Inspections

No unannounced inspections by RQIA have been carried out at the Erne Hospital, during the first round of unannounced inspections in the Western Trust Altnagelvin.

However, local unannounced inspection’s (Bug watch) are conducted by the Western Health & Social Services Council. The first inspection was carried out on 16th October 2007 in the Erne Hospital. Following the outcome of this inspection, an action plan was developed and implemented. A follow up inspection was carried out on 13th February 2008 by the Health Council and a positive report was received showing improvements since the initial inspection.

Newtownards Ambulance Station

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) if an ambulance has been removed from day time service at the Newtownards Ambulance station; and (ii) the reasons behind this decision. (AQW 8804/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS), along with other Health and Social Care Trusts, is asked to identify realistic efficiency savings measures to allow additional resources to be recycled to front line services.

As part of the measures to deliver these savings in 2006/07, NIAS replaced a two-person emergency ambulance based at Newtownards Ambulance Station, which operated during the day from Monday to Friday, with a solo paramedic rapid response vehicle (RRV), operating 12 hours a day, seven days a week in the same area.

In addition to contributing to NIAS’s efficiency savings, the introduction of the RRV also improved paramedic response to emergency 999 calls by getting potentially life saving treatment to patients quickly before an A&E ambulance arrives to transport the patient to hospital, if necessary.

Independent Review of Autism

Mr McCallister asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the Independent Review of Autism. (AQO 4266/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: In September 2007, I announced an Independent Review of Autism Services. The Independent Review Team, chaired by Lord Maginnis, has now completed a report outlining a series of recommendations on how autism services for people of all ages across Northern Ireland might be improved.

In my announcement on 26th June 2008, I outlined plans to urgently develop an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Action Plan, which will promote service development in this important area of care. The Independent Review of Autism Services will make a significant contribution to the development of the ASD Action Plan. The action plan will go out for consultation at the end of August 2008.

I wish to convey my thanks to Lord Maginnis and all the members of the Independent Review Team for their leadership and the commitment they have shown to the development of this important report.

Annual Cost of Negligence Claims

Mr G Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety the annual cost of negligence claims against the Department; and what action he is taking to reduce such claims. (AQO 4190/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Annual Costs of Negligence Claims

The annual cost of negligence claims against Health and Social Care bodies in recent years has been:

2002/03	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07
£13.6 million	£20.3 million	£14.2 million	£14.2 million	£13.6 million

 

Action taken to reduce claims

Health and Social Service Boards and Health and Social Care Trusts have responsibility for the management, processing, settlement and outcome of clinical negligence claims. The Department will continue to meet the costs of these claims as they arise, which, given the unpredictable nature of these incidents, can vary substantially from one year to the next. However, I expect these Health and Social Care organisations to actively manage the risk of incidents occurring that may give rise to negligence claims and take appropriate action to ensure lessons are learned so that costs are reduced in the future.

In policy terms my Department is working to reduce negligence claims by: Improving complaints procedures;

Improving claims management skills and processes;

Driving forward quality improvements in service delivery across the Health and Social Care Service;

Promoting learning from adverse incidents, complaints and claims; and

Promoting a more pro-active approach in HSC Trusts to the early identification of areas of major risk in healthcare.

Report on the Inquiry into the Prevention of Suicide and Self Harm

Ms J McCann asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what action he will take to implement all the recommendations of the Report on the Inquiry into the Prevention of Suicide and Self Harm produced by the Committee for Health, Social Services and Public Safety. (AQO 4263/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I welcome the Health, Social Services and Public Safety Committee’s support for our efforts to tackle the high rates of suicide and self-harm in our local communities. The recommendations contained within the Report on the Committee’s Inquiry into the Prevention of Suicide and Self Harm will make an important contribution in this regard.

The Committee’s report was debated in the Assembly on 19 May 2008. The Assembly approved the motion "… that the Executive bring forward, before the summer recess, a timeframe for implementing the recommendations in the Report". I presented a draft timeframe to the Ministerial Co-ordination Group on Suicide Prevention at its meeting on 23rd June and it is now my intention to present this to the Executive on 3rd July. Following due consideration by my Executive colleagues, I then intend to bring forward an implementation plan in relation to all 26 recommendations contained in the Committee’s Report.

Mesothelioma

Mr Hilditch asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans he has to introduce the drug Alimta to help those who suffer from Mesothelioma. (AQO 4189/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: In January of this year the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) endorsed the use of Alimta in treating advanced malignant pleural mesothelioma in people who are relatively active and for whom surgery is considered inappropriate.

My Department reviewed the NICE guidance for its applicability to Northern Ireland, and endorsed the guidance for implementation here. A circular formally advising the HSC of this decision was issued on 15 February, giving a two month timescale for implementation. HSC organisations have confirmed that funding has been allocated to support the delivery of this treatment and the NICE guidance on the use of Alimta is fully implemented.

PFI Hospital at Enniskillen

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the communication between his Department and Planning Service in relation to the new PFI hospital at Enniskillen. (AQO 4265/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Health Estates Agency has been the formal link between the DHSSPS and the Strategic Projects Division of the Planning Service. Regular meetings regarding the new hospital at Enniskillen have taken place between both bodies since early 2005.

Health Estates as procurement advisors to the Western Trust (formally Sperrin Lakeland Trust) was responsible for the management of the Outline Planning application which was submitted in August 2005.

Outline Planning approval was obtained on 13 September 2006 and this approval was shared with each of the 3 PFI bidders when the PFI Competitive Dialogue process commenced in October 2006.

Since then Health Estates has facilitated regular meetings between Planning Service and each Bidder’s Design Team.

All bid teams have now submitted a full/reserved matters planning application and each bid team is liaising directly with Planning Service.

Alcohol-Related Ill-Health

Mr Burns asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for her assessment of the significant increase in the number of young people being treated for alcohol-related ill-health. (AQO 4226/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I refer to the answer to AQW 7057/2208 which set out the number of admissions for people aged 17 years and under, to Health and Social Care Hospitals in Northern Ireland, with a diagnosis of an alcohol related illness/condition over the last 5 years. These figures show that alcohol related admissions have remained relatively constant over the period, and may have in fact fallen slightly.

However, alcohol misuse can significantly impact on young people’s individual physical and mental health, and it also has a wider impact on families, friends, communities, and society. Addressing young people’s drinking is therefore a key priority for my Department. However, this is not an issue that my Department can effectively address in isolation, and consequently we are in the process of developing a cross-Departmental, cross-sectoral, integrated action plan to address this issue, under the remit of the New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs.

The action plan will focus on enforcing and restricting access to alcohol, improving education and information for young people and their parents, and providing effective treatment and support services for those who require additional help.

Patient Complaints System

Mr Dallat asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps are being taken to monitor the effectiveness of the patient complaints system. (AQO 4223/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: Under the Health and Personal Social Services Complaints Procedures Directions (Northern Ireland) 1996 HSS Boards and Trusts are required to monitor the arrangements for dealing with complaints, consider the nature and volume of complaints, take remedial action following investigation of complaints and publish an annual report on the handling of complaints.

Within Health and Social Care there is a Controls Assurance Standard relating to complaints, which requires an agreed process for reporting, managing, analysing and learning from complaints in accordance with Departmental guidance.

The Department also monitors the volume and nature of complaints raised under the HPSS Complaints Procedures, in addition to the compliance with target response times.

A review of the current HPSS Complaints Procedures is now complete. A revised health and social care complaints procedure, effective from 1 April 2009, will be issued shortly. These new guidelines and standards for complaints handling will strengthen monitoring arrangements and help ensure the effectiveness of the patient complaints system.

Autism review

Ms Anderson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he will publish his response to the Autism review. (AQO 4262/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: In my announcement on 26th June 2008, I outlined plans to urgently develop an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Action Plan, which will promote service development in this important area of care. The Independent Review of Autism Services will make a significant contribution to the development of the ASD Action Plan. The action plan will go out for consultation at the end of August 2008.

Waiting Times for Cancer Treatment

Rev Dr Robert Coulter asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of waiting times for cancer treatment. (AQO 4273/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I am pleased to say that the latest figures indicate that the targets set last March to improve access to cancer services have been achieved on a regional basis. The targets were that by March of this year

98% of patients diagnosed with cancer would begin treatment within a maximum of 31 days of the date of their diagnosis

75% of patients with suspected cancer referred urgently by a GP would begin their first definitive treatment within a maximum of 62 days.

All women requiring an urgent assessment for suspected breast cancer would be seen at a specialist breast clinic within 14 days of referral.

NHS Dentists

Mr McGlone asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans there are to increase the number of people registered with an NHS dentist. (AQO 4225/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: My officials are currently negotiating a new, stand alone, Health Service dental contract for Northern Ireland with the British Dental Association. The aim of the contract will be to provide access to high quality health service dental care for all our citizens. In addition, I have given approval for procurement of additional dental services from the independent sector. This will deliver an additional 36 dentists, providing access to health service dentistry some 54,000 people across the four Health Boards.

Travel Reimbursement Rates for HealthCare Staff

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if he has any plans to adjust travel reimbursement rates, in line with recent fuel price rises, for healthcare staff that work in the community. (AQO 4275/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: As an interim measure, I have increased the mileage rates for most staff classified as regular users by 3p per mile from 1 January 2008. A four country review of the mileage rates is currently being carried out in partnership with the nationally recognised health unions at national level. I will consider the recommendations of this review in due course.

Agenda for Change

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why the Agenda for Change process has not yet been completed. (AQO 4258/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: I am pleased to announce that the 30 June deadline which I set for employers to have all HSC staff on Agenda for Change rates of pay has been met. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those involved in this process for all their efforts in meeting this deadline.

Banbridge Health Village

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety pursuant to his answer to AQW 7849/08, (i) which matters in relation to Banbridge Health Village are outstanding; (ii) what action he has taken to resolve these matters; (iii) what factors were responsible for the delay; and (iv) what steps he has taken to ensure that this delay is not repeated. (AQW 8812/08)

Mr M McGimpsey: The current business case proposals are for a new Health and Care Centre along with a new Learning Disability Day Centre within the Banbridge Community Health Village.

(i) A substantial number of issues were raised by my Department during initial assessment and in order to address those issues a fully updated business case has been requested from the Southern Trust. My Department still awaits receipt of that updated business case.

(ii) My Department has provided direction on what areas of the business case need revised and staff are available to provide further advice if sought by the Trust.

(iii) The development of investment proposals through to an approved business case involves a significant volume of work for both my Department and the HSC Trusts. Following submission of the original business case for the Banbridge proposals the Trust have made changes to the design for the buildings which will now be built as a single building. This change required revision to schedules of accommodation, design elements and costs within the business case and may add further to the time required to finalize the business case.

(iv) Any business case is developed to help inform decision making on the best ways to deliver health care and changes are frequently necessary as discussions take place and more up to date information becomes available. It is not possible to ensure that changes do not happen during the development of business cases for health care proposals.

Regional Development

Residents’ Parking Scheme

Mr Spratt asked the Minister for Regional Development if he has any alternative strategies outside the current proposals to tackle the parking difficulties in areas currently being considered for residents’ parking scheme. (AQW 7001/08)

The Minister for Regional Development (Mr C Murphy): With regard to AQW 6999/08, the estimated consultancy costs for the three named schemes are approximately £25,500.

As regards AQW 7001/08, my Department’s Roads Service has, in response to numerous and on-going requests from residents and their elected representatives, established a policy to allow the introduction of residents’ parking schemes to address the problems associated with all-day commuter car parking in the worst-affected residential areas.

I would hope that the residents in at least some of the first five areas already consulted about scheme designs for their areas, will recognise the benefits that these schemes can bring to them so that we may make progress. However, I do not intend to carry on with scheme development and implementation in individual areas where local communities do not support them. My officials in Roads Service are actively working on preliminary scheme designs for a number of other areas where a need has been identified – and indeed have a list of other areas awaiting survey and assessment. Should residents in any of the first five areas reject the proposals, it would be with regret, but Roads Service would have to move on to these other areas.

The only practical way to deal with all-day commuter parking in residential areas is through residents’ parking schemes. There is no workable alternative. I would be happy to proceed with schemes in all five of the areas consulted on to date, as long as they have the support of the local communities. Without that support, my Department’s resources will regrettably be deployed elsewhere.

Road Surfacing Schemes

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Regional Development what road surfacing schemes are planned for the (i) Larne; (ii) Carrickfergus; and (iii) Newtownabbey areas, over the next 3 years. (AQW 8148/08)

Mr C Murphy: Details of road re-surfacing schemes planned by my Department’s Roads Service for the Larne, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey areas, over the next 3 years, are provided in the tables below.

Larne

Road	Year
Millbay Road, Islandmagee	2008/09
Ballywillan Road, Glenoe	2008/09
Ballymena Road, Carnlough	2009/10
Portmuck Road, Islandmagee	2009/10
Ballyboley Road, Larne	2009/10
Browns Bay Road, Islandmagee	2009/10
Mark Street, Glenarm	2009/10
Shore Road, Larne	2010/11
Ballyrickard Road, Larne	2010/11
Drumnagreagh Road, Cairncastle	2010/11
Moss Road, Larne	2010/11
Middle Road, Islandmagee	2010/11

 

Carrickfregus

Road	Year
Upper Road/Woodburn Road (Stage 3), Carrickfergus	2008/09
Castle Road, Carrickfergus	2008/09
Oakfield Drive, Carrickfergus	2008/09
Dunluskin Gardens, Carrickfergus	2008/09
Larne Road, Kilroot	2009/10
Dalway’s Bawn, Kilroot	2009/10
Drumhoy Drive, Carrickfergus	2009/10
Larne Road, Eden	2010/11
Ransevyn Drive, Whitehead	2010/11

 

Newtownabbey

Road	Year
Park Road, Mallusk	2008/09
Burnside Road, Doagh	2008/09
Ballyclare Road (Service Road), Glengormley	2008/09
Carwood Park South, Glengormley	2008/09
Templepatrick Trunk Road, Ballyclare	2008/09
Larne Road Trunk Road, Ballynure	2008/09
Mill Road, Ballyclare	2009/10
Richmond Area, Glengormley	2009/10
Main Street/ Station Road, Doagh	2009/10
Shore Road, Whiteabbey Village	2009/10
Ballycraigy Road, Newtownabbey	2010/11
Ballypallady Road, Ballyrobert	2010/11
Hydepark Road, Mallusk	2010/11
Mallusk Road, Mallusk	2010/11

 

Trunk road schemes are allocated on the basis of a structural assessment, which is carried out each year during August and September for inclusion in the following year’s programme. Therefore, there are no trunk road schemes shown for 2009/10 and 2010/11.

The resurfacing programmes planned for 2009/10 and 2010/11 are considered provisional until they are finalised in April of that year, when funding allocations have been confirmed.

In addition, any late ‘in–year’ funding my Department may receive can result in schemes being brought forward or additional schemes being carried out.

Traffic Calming Measures in Belfast

Mr Attwood asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the traffic calming measures for (i) North; (ii) South; (iii) East; and (iv) West Belfast, for (a) 2005-06; (b) 2006-07; and (c) 2007-08; and to further detail the 2008-09 programme of works for each area. (AQW 8157/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service develops its annual work programmes on a District/City Council area basis. Details of the locations and the type of features implemented, as part of Roads Service’s traffic calming programme of works in the Belfast City Council area, for the last three financial years, are provided in the table below.

Traffic Calming Schemes for Belfast City Council
Location	Type of features	Year
Inverary Area – Road Hump Scheme	Road Humps	2005/2006
Sprinfield Park	Road Humps	2005/2006
Cavehill Road	Central Islands, formalised lay-bys and associated road markings.	2005/2006
Upper Whiterock Road	Road Humps	2005/2006
Ballygomartin Road (West Circular to Springmartin Road)	Formalised lay-bys and road humps	2005/2006
Knockeden/Flush	Road Humps	2005/2006
La Salle/St. James Area	Road humps and priority junctions	2005/2006
Highbury Gardens –	Road Humps	2005/2006
Salisbury/Hughenden	Range of measures including road humps, chicanes, road narrowing and change in road priority	2005/2006
Highfield Drive Area	Road Humps	2005/2006
Duncairn Gardens -	Narrowing lane width by providing formalised longitudinal lay-bys.	2006/2007
Erinvale Avenue - Road hump scheme	Road humps	2006/2007
Loopland Park area	Road humps	2006/2007
Harberton Park area	Road humps	2006/2007
Cupar Street Upper	Road humps	2006/2007
Dunraven Park area	Formalised lay-by with central traffic island in conjunction with raised table and series of road humps.	2006/2007
Benmore Drive area	Road hump scheme with mini roundabout and build outs.	2006/2007
Ardenlee Avenue -	Road humps	2007/2008
Holland Drive area - Road hump scheme.	Road humps	2007/2008
Ballymurphy Street area - Road hump scheme.	Road humps	2007/2008
Lemberg Street area - Road hump scheme.	Road humps	2007/2008
Lockview Road-Deramore Drive area – Road hump scheme	Road humps	2007/2008
Irwin Avenue area – Road hump scheme	Road humps	2007/2008

 

Details of the locations and the type of traffic calming features proposed for Roads Service’s 2008/09 programme of works for the Belfast City Council area are provided in the table below.

Proposed Traffic Calming Schemes for Belfast City Council in 2008/09
Location	Type of features
Maryville Park – Road hump scheme	Proposed road hump scheme
Bilston Road – Formalised lay-by and road humps	Proposed road humps scheme with formalised lay-by.
Lepper Street area	Proposed road hump scheme
North Boundary Street	Proposed road hump scheme
Cabin Hill Park – Road hump scheme	Proposed road hump scheme
Euston Street area- Road hump scheme	Proposed road hump scheme
Tamar Street/Witham Street – Road hump scheme	Proposed road hump scheme

 

It is important to note that implementation of these proposed schemes is subject to availability of funding and the successful completion of consultative and legislative processes.

Departmental Electrical Equipment

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Regional Development how many Blackberrys have been purchased by his Department since devolution. (AQW 8167/08)

Mr C Murphy: Since the date of devolution the Department for Regional Development has purchased 48 Blackberry devices at a cost of £4,135.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Regional Development the total cost incurred by the Department on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 8227/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s spend on away days or team building exercises in each of the last five years is set out in the table below:

Financial Year	Total Cost (excluding VAT) spent on away days or team building exercises
2003/04	£29,741.51
2004/05	£39,791.50
2005/06	£35,719.99
2006/07	£40,048.12
2007/08	£16,309.66

 

This includes expenditure by Roads Service and the Core and also Water Service up to 31 March 2007.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Regional Development how many away days and team-building exercises have been organised by his Department for departmental staff in each of the last five years. (AQW 8228/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department has organised the following number of away days or team building exercises in each of the last 5 years as set out in the table below:

Financial Year	Number of away days or team building exercises
2003/04	22
2004/05	32
2005/06	34
2006/07	41
2007/08	11

 

This includes figures from Roads Service and the Core and also Water Service up to 31 March 2007.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Regional Development how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years. (AQW 8231/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department has taken up the following staff hours with Departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team building exercises in each of the last 5 years as set out in the table below:

Financial Year	Number of staff hours taken up with departmental or cross - departmental away days or team building exercises.
2003/04	3,038
2004/05	4,987
2005/06	4,221
2006/07	8,595
2007/08	1,830

 

This includes figures from Roads Service and the Core and also Water Service up to 31 March 2007.

Parking Permit Schemes

Mr McCartney asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline the criteria for Parking Permit Schemes. (AQW 8255/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service finalised a policy for the introduction of Residents Parking Schemes in January 2008, this is the only type of Parking Permit Scheme in the North. The criteria for the introduction of these schemes are included within this policy.

There are two specific criteria which must be satisfied before a scheme can be considered: the level of local support from residents; and

the degree of difficulty which residents experience when trying to park near their homes.

Local support means that at least two thirds of households who respond to a questionnaire, issued by Roads Service, favour the introduction of a scheme. In addition, a minimum 50% response rate to the questionnaire is required, otherwise a scheme could be ‘voted in’ by a small minority of residents.

The degree of difficulty in parking is measured by conducting surveys. While some flexibility will necessarily apply, it is likely that a scheme to relieve parking difficulties during the working day would be justified where: more than 60% of the available kerbside space is estimated to be occupied by non-residents’ vehicles for more than 5 hours; and

more than 80% of the available kerbside space is occupied in total for the same 5 hours.

Generally, 50% of the streets in a zoned area must meet these criteria.

Northern Ireland Water

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development the average time for Northern Ireland Water to respond to breaks in the water system in the Ards Borough Council area, in each of the last 3 years. (AQW 8273/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that they do not hold records based on council areas so are unable to provide a detailed response for the Ards Borough Council area.

The Customer Charter states the response time to incidents is 4 hours if during normal working hours and within 6 hours outside normal working hours. The introduction of a new fully automated work management system will improve the accuracy of reporting and Northern Ireland Water are on target with their objective to halve supply interruptions between 2006 and 2009 to improve service delivered to customers.

National Speed Limit

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development what consideration has been given to reducing the National Speed Limit on rural roads. (AQW 8298/08)

Mr C Murphy: Speed limits are a key source of information to road users and while effective speed management has a fundamental role within speed management policies, influencing driver behaviour also has an important role to play in encouraging road users to adopt appropriate and safe speeds.

All speed limits in the North, other than those on Restricted Roads, are made by order under Article 38 of the Road Traffic Regulation (Northern Ireland) Order 1997. The vast majority of the single carriageway rural road network is subject to the national speed limit of 60 mph, for cars, with reduced limits for HGVs and other vehicle types. The majority of drivers on this network never reach or exceed the speed limit on many of these roads. This is especially evident on C Class and Unclassified roads, which include many single track roads, where their geometric characteristics often make it difficult to drive at high speeds.

The National Speed Limit for the North is set under Schedule 2 of the Motor Vehicle (Variation of Speed Limits) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1989. Although it would be theoretically possible to set different national speed limits from those currently operating in Britain, it is important that there is consistency in the application of speed limits across the UK to prevent driver confusion and consequent road safety implications.

However, as speed is one of the major contributory factors in collisions here, my Department’s Roads Service is continually looking at ways of reducing excessive or inappropriate speeds across the whole network. In April 2005, the Agency initiated a review of its speed management policies, following on from a similar process by the Department for Transport in England and the regional assemblies in Scotland and Wales. This review was completed in the autumn of 2007 and I submitted this to the Regional Development Committee on 5 November 2007 for scrutiny, as part of the wider consultation process. I am still awaiting the Committee’s comments.

The draft speed management policy contains a speed assessment framework that has been developed, to achieve an appropriate and consistent balance between safety and mobility objectives, on single carriageway rural roads. Lower speed limits would, therefore, be appropriate on lower tier single carriageway roads passing through a community, or having a local access or recreational function.

I would stress that, while my Department’s Roads Service will continue to do as much as it practically can to make our roads safer, the key fact remains that driver behaviour is responsible for over 95% of collisions. It is important, therefore, to keep reinforcing the message that drivers must learn to take more responsibility for their driving behaviour on the roads, if we are to continue to reduce the numbers of people killed, or seriously injured as a result of road traffic collisions caused by excess speed.

Repairs on Buses and Trains

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Regional Development how much money has been spent on repairs to (i) buses; and (ii) trains, in each of the last 12 months. (AQW 8303/08)

Mr C Murphy: Translink has supplied the following details of spend on repairs to (i) buses; and (ii) trains, for each of the periods of account in the last financial year commencing on the 26 March 2007 and ending 30 March 2008.

Table 1 Cost of Translink Bus Repairs 2007/08 Financial Year by period. Period	1	2	3	4	5	6
£k	1,330	1,400	1,743	1,403	1,424	1,480
Period	7	8	9	10	11	12
£k	1,444	1,527	1,705	1,497	1,499	2,772

 

Total £19.224m

Table 2 NIR Cost of Train Repairs 2007/08 financial Year by period. Period	1	2	3	4	5	6
£k	709	930	1,121	515	719	1,195
Period	7	8	9	10	11	12
£k	849	828	1,086	1,067	1,100	1,016

 

Total £11.135m

Translink accounting periods are based on two four-week periods followed by a five-week period and thus do not correspond exactly to a calendar month. NI Railways figures are for all repairs (scheduled and unscheduled) including the costs of scheduled examinations and engineering overheads. The repair figures for the Translink bus companies include maintenance spend and accident costs.

Parking Tickets

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Regional Development how many parking tickets have been issued in each of the last 12 months, broken down by parliamentary constituency. (AQW 8307/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service does not hold the information you requested by Parliamentary Constituency. However, I am able to provide you with details of the number of tickets that have been issued in each of the last 12 months broken down by Council Area. This information is set out at Annex A.

Annex A

Council	Number Of PCNs Issued In Each Month
	Jun 07	Jul 07	Aug 07	Sep 07	Oct 07	Nov 07	Dec 07	Jan 08	Feb 08	Mar 08	Apr 08	May 08
Antrim	303	210	257	216	140	147	127	135	122	109	87	129
Ards	436	388	400	364	423	451	336	341	313	304	250	366
Armagh	268	310	288	238	484	532	403	347	321	204	270	230
Ballymena	679	505	628	473	447	423	540	356	327	316	345	365
Ballymoney	273	246	227	200	184	143	115	97	133	158	118	120
Banbridge	120	200	248	176	123	158	116	87	134	128	129	123
Belfast*	3951	3902	4027	3909	4464	4274	3329	3404	4702	4500	4463	4283
Carrickfergus	279	247	302	297	247	222	213	195	170	140	109	111
Coleraine	609	862	934	717	576	431	456	368	470	556	480	464
Cookstown	182	272	236	231	219	252	212	218	187	178	237	244
Craigavon	578	662	757	619	627	370	424	352	334	344	471	475
Derry	2166	1617	1855	2321	2250	1747	1609	1207	1145	1018	1070	1079
Down	558	499	405	304	592	527	491	366	298	327	478	498
Dungannon	289	328	350	372	312	366	299	237	237	130	270	305
Fermanagh	599	572	1091	1075	1075	936	892	724	476	586	658	774
Larne	105	68	69	84	75	68	64	41	59	59	101	56
Limavady	164	206	204	188	237	163	115	140	126	107	123	115
Lisburn	551	461	454	441	486	470	665	429	463	553	552	540
Magherfelt	379	370	534	373	356	325	223	341	308	337	378	317
Moyle	13	40	125	8	26	26	9	15	12	12	12	12
Newry & Mourne	454	527	543	447	469	482	295	327	411	363	387	380
Newtownabbey	166	155	187	181	152	184	92	101	124	103	128	119
North Down	656	664	552	471	383	401	334	320	391	376	317	416
Omagh	516	522	539	426	459	576	444	433	408	422	380	503
Strabane	338	386	337	306	337	251	218	249	250	205	217	269
Total	14632	14219	15549	14437	15143	13925	12021	10830	11921	11535	12030	12293

 

Note: details of parking tickets issued in the Castlereagh Council area are included in the figures provided for the Belfast Council area.

Clamped Cars Figures

Mr Burns asked the Minister for Regional Development how many cars have been clamped since 1 January 2008, broken down by parliamentary constituency. (AQW 8347/08)

Mr C Murphy: I can confirm that my Department has not been involved in vehicle clamping operations. However, my Department’s Roads Service officials are currently working on the operational details required to introduce the clamping and removal of vehicles as part of the parking enforcement contract with NCP Services Ltd. It is intended that, for debt recovery purposes, vehicle clamping and removing will be introduced in the near future.

The Minister for Environment has advised that his Department’s Driver Vehicle Agency has clamped or seized 2941 unlicensed vehicles during the period 1 January 2008 to 19 June 2008. Details of these operations are not maintained by parliamentary constituency area.

Cycling Demonstration Town Scheme

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development what consideration has been given to introducing a scheme similar to the Cycling Demonstration Town scheme operating presently in England. (AQW 8367/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has no plans to introduce a Cycling Demonstration Town scheme in the North. However, Roads Service is committed to improving cycling facilities across the North to encourage more people to cycle.

The Regional Transportation Strategy (RTS) 2002-2012 established strategic transportation investment priorities across a range of travel modes. Making it easier to cycle is a key theme of the RTS. Following on from this strategy, detailed cycling proposals for cities and towns are contained in the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan and the technical supplement of the Sub-Regional Transport Plan. The Sub-Regional Transport Plan prioritises 29 of the largest towns and cities outside Belfast and identifies cycling infrastructure improvements in these towns and cities.

Traffic Calming Measures in the Rosevale/Beverly Area of Newtownards

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister for Regional Development when construction will commence on traffic calming measures in the Rosevale/Beverly area of Newtownards. (AQW 8369/08)

Mr C Murphy: As I advised in my response to the Member’s recent Assembly Question (AQW 5658/08), all proposals for Traffic Calming schemes which might be undertaken by my Department’s Roads Service are assessed, scored and prioritised within each Council area. Roads Service then draws up a two-year rolling programme, which is published each year in the Autumn Roads Service Report presented to Councils.

In relation to AQW 8369/08, I can confirm that the assessment for the Rosevale/Beverly area of Newtownards has shown that this area does not have sufficient priority to be included in the current two-year programme, when compared with other proposed schemes in the Ards Council area.

With regard to AQW 8370/08, I can confirm that the assessment for East Street and West Street, Newtownards has placed these proposed schemes in the 2009/10 Ards Council programme, subject to the availability of adequate resources and the assessed priority of new requests for traffic calming.

Expenditure on the Larne Railway Line

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Regional Development how much money has been spent on the Larne railway line over the last 5 years; and on what the money was spent. (AQW 8384/08)

Mr C Murphy: Translink have provided the details below of the money spent on the Larne railway line over the last 5 years and what it has been spent on:

Revenue Works	2003/04 £	2004/05 £	2005/06 £	2006/07 £	2007/08 £	Totals £
Permanent Way Including Structures
Labour	196,220	193,784	199,468	260,516	382,092	1,232,081
Materials	121,452	119,944	123,462	161,248	103,015	629,121
Signalling
Labour	386,764	381,963	393,166	513,496	467,798	2,143,187
Materials	20,564	20,309	20,904	27,302	19,053	108,132
Revenue Work Total:	725,000	716,000	737,000	962,562	971,958	4,112,520
Capital Works
Bleach Green to Whitehead Relay	563,999	5,158,933	17,967,724	726,748		24,417,404
Whitehead To Larne Life Expired Sections			2,159,144			2,159,144
Sea Defences		408,304				408,304
Fencing				42,266	126,828	169,094
Train Protection Warning System				700,000		700,000
Disability Discrimination Act Works					1,250,000	1,250,000
Capital Works Total:	563,999	5,567,237	20,126,868	1,469,014	1,376,828	29,103,946
All Works Total:	1,288,999	6,283,237	20,863,868	2,431,576	2,348,786	33,216,466

 

Departmental Visits to North Down

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Regional Development how many visits he paid to North Down constituency in his first year of office. (AQW 8415/08)

Mr C Murphy: During the period 8 May 2007 to 7 May 2008, I made one visit to the North Down constituency.

Antrim Bus and Train Station

Mr Burns asked the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the work to upgrade Antrim bus and train station. (AQW 8494/08)

Mr C Murphy: Translink are currently completing a Feasibility Study and Economic Appraisal for this project, which on completion will be submitted to the Department and DFP for approval. The building of a new integrated station is not contained within Translink’s Corporate Plan for 2008-11 and subject to approval, additional funding would therefore need to be sought to fund this project.

Park and Ride Facility at Ballymartin in Templepatrick

Mr Burns asked the Minister for Regional Development when the first phase of the proposed rail/bus station and ‘park and ride’ facility at Ballymartin, Templepatrick is due to open. (AQW 8496/08)

Mr C Murphy: The first phase of the proposed Ballymartin Bus and Rail Park and Ride facility, which is bus based, has an indicative opening date of 2012. This phase will provide between 150 and 200 spaces.

Northern Ireland Water

Mr McQuillan asked the Minister for Regional Development the budget allocation breakdown within the individual departments of Northern Ireland Water. (AQW 8506/08)

Mr C Murphy: I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that the table below illustrates the operational and capital expenditures for the draft 2008/09 budget broken down by the individual Directorates and Departments of Northern Ireland Water. These figures are exclusive of costs such as depreciation, tax and interest.

Directorate/Department	Operating Expenditure (£000s)	Capital Expenditure (£000s)	Total Expenditure (£000s)
Finance & Regulation	22,662	2,657	25,319
Customer Services	17,942	2,361	20,303
Asset Management	13,195	14,216	27,411
Human Resources	25,546	500	26,046
Business Transformation	3,928	656	4,584
Procurement	935	0	935
Engineering & Procurement	4,109	240,087	244,196
Operations	111,798	19,108	130,906
Public Private Partnership	20,335	385	20,720
Chief Executive	2,408	0	2,408
Total	222,858	279,970	502,828

 

Tursallagh Road and Maginn Road in Co Tyrone

Mr Doherty asked the Minister for Regional Development what action he is taking to repair and upgrade the Tursallagh Road and Maginn Road, Sixmilecross, Co Tyrone. (AQW 8562/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has no plans to upgrade the Tursallagh Road and Maginn Road, Sixmilecross. However, there are plans to surface dress the Tursallagh Road within the next 2 months.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister for Regional Development what is the designation of Belfast City Airport under European Union legislation. (AQW 8656/08)

Mr C Murphy: Belfast City Airport is designated as a "city airport" under Directive 2002/30/EC which is implemented into law by the Aerodromes (Noise Restrictions) (Rules and Procedures) Regulations 2003.

Belfast City Airport

Dr Farry asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans there are to change the designation of Belfast City Airport under European Union legislation. (AQW 8657/08)

Mr C Murphy: Although the Commission has announced that it proposes to review the operation of Directive 2002/30/EC during 2008, I am not aware of any plans to change the designation of Belfast City Airport.

Airport Policy

Dr Farry asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline his policy on airports. (AQW 8658/08)

Mr C Murphy: Airport policy is set out in the White Paper "The Future of Air Transport" published in December 2003 (a copy has been placed in the Library or the document can be consulted on the following link: http://www.dft.gov.uk/about/strategy/whitepapers/air/thefutureofairtransportwhite5694). The relevant chapter dealing with the North was amended in December 2004 and includes an assessment of the key issues affecting the North in addition to a summary of each of the local airports.

Airport Policy

Dr Farry asked the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of the role played by Belfast City Airport within the overall airport strategy. (AQW 8659/08)

Mr C Murphy: The Northern Ireland chapter of the White Paper "The Future of Air Transport" gives an assessment of the role played by Belfast City Airport.

Street Lighting in Rural Areas

Mr Burns asked the Minister for Regional Development when he will be in a position to review the criteria for the provision of street lighting in rural areas. (AQO 4317/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service use two main criteria when considering the provision of street lighting in rural areas. These are:

the density of housing within a community, including public buildings with significant night time use; and

road safety, where street lighting would contribute to a reduction of night-time accidents.

Roads Service last reviewed the policy for provision of road lighting in rural areas in 2002, to take greater account of public buildings with significant night time use.

The demand for more rural lighting has to be balanced against environmental impact of night sky light pollution, and the financial costs of providing and maintaining additional public lighting installations.

There are no plans for a further review of rural public lighting criteria at this time.

Departmental Offices

Mr Molloy asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will consider relocating some of his Department’s offices to rural areas, including the Mid-Ulster constituency. (AQO 4301/08)

Mr C Murphy: I fully appreciate that the location of public sector jobs has important implications for rural communities, and in supporting sustainable development. For operational reasons, around 65% of DRD staff are already dispersed to locations outside Greater Belfast.

I have recently written to Professor Sir George Bain, who is chairing the current review in this area, to express my strong support for the decentralisation of jobs. This key principle will be borne in mind by my Department when formulating any future operational planning proposals.

Independent Water Review Panel’s Recommendations

Mr McCartney asked the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the implementation of the Independent Review Panel’s recommendations. (AQO 4298/08)

Mr C Murphy: Following publication of the Independent Water Review Panel’s Strand 1 report in October 2007, the Executive agreed to introduce additional payments for water and sewerage services provided to households and to extend non-domestic payments. It also agreed that full recognition would be made of the existing domestic contributions to the cost of these services through the Regional Rate. However, the Executive decided to defer decisions on way in which household will pay until it had considered the Strand 2 report.

Since publication of the Strand 2 report in January, the Executive Sub-Committee has considered options for a household payment methodology. The results of this work were outlined to the Executive on 22nd May 2008 and further work is being undertaken before the matter is brought back to the Executive.

The Executive is committed to a public consultation on the payment methodology and other Strand 2 issues. Work on the Executive’s consultation proposals is ongoing and I hope to be able to make an announcement shortly.

Irish Language Road Signage

Mr McNarry asked the Minister for Regional Development the proportion of his budget earmarked for Irish Language Road signage over the next three years. (AQO 4203/08)

Mr C Murphy: There is no budget set aside by my Department for the provision of Irish language road signage over the next three years.

My Department has prepared a draft policy for the introduction of a range of bilingual road signs in response to the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages.

The issue of bilingual signing cuts across the responsibility of my Department, as well as the Department for Culture Arts and Leisure, which has responsibility for the charter and the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, which has responsibility for tourism.

Currently I am considering the draft policy and in discussion with Departmental officials with regard to taking the proposals to the Executive Committee.

When this process concludes I will then address any budgetary issues.

Glenmonagh Site

Mr Adams asked the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the proposed inter-departmental group for the Glenmonagh and adjacent site in West Belfast; and to outline his engagement with Ministerial colleagues in working to establish such a group. (AQO 4285/08)

Mr C Murphy: I wrote to the Ministers for Social Development, Enterprise Trade and Investment, and Environment on 29 May asking them for views on establishing a cross-departmental group of officials to guide the development of Glenmonagh. All three Ministers support this approach.

I will be meeting with the Minister for Social Development to discuss the proposal and am hopeful that the group can be established quickly.

Blaris Development in Lisburn

Mr Poots asked the Minister for Regional Development what engagement his Department has had with the Blaris development in Lisburn; and when work will commence on the Knockmore/Sprucefield link road. (AQO 4314/08)

Mr C Murphy: In 2006, my Department’s Roads Service was consulted by Planning Service on a planning application for lands between Sprucefield and Knockmore and the proposed link road at Blaris. Roads Service assessed and responded to the Traffic Impact Assessment, submitted in conjunction with that proposal, but the application did not progress any further at that time.

Roads Service has now been requested to attend a pre-application meeting in July 2008, in relation to a new planning application for the area.

The current draft Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan requires construction of the Knockmore/Sprucefield link road in conjunction with the development of the adjacent lands. Therefore, as the link road will be a developer-led scheme and subject to planning permission, I am unable to advise as to when the work may commence.

Hybrid Buses in Belfast

Mrs Hanna asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline his discussions, plans and timescale for the introduction of hybrid buses in Belfast and other centres of high population. (AQO 4227/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department has been liaising with Translink who are seeking funding for the purchase of 7 new Environmentally Enhanced Vehicles for deployment in Belfast. Translink have submitted an Economic Appraisal to my Department and officials have been working closely with Translink in reviewing it before it is forwarded to DFP for approval. If approved, the buses would be introduced to service as soon as possible, five operating in the Belfast area and two servicing Coleraine and the Giants Causeway. Depending on their success, funding for more such vehicles would be considered as part of Translink’s bus replacement programme.

Public Transport

Mr McLaughlin asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he intends to bring forward in relation to the governance and operational delivery of public transport in the future. (AQO 4289/08)

Mr C Murphy: I recently asked the Regional Development Committee for its views on the proposal to create a three tier system involving a top, Government, tier responsible for broad policy, legislation and regulation, including the regulation of operators; a middle tier responsible for specifying and funding services and securing their provision; and a third tier comprising transport operators. I have recently approved a Strategic Business Case which examined a number of possible options for a proposed new middle tier institution.

The next step is to develop an Outline Business Case for the reforms to examine in more detail the possible options identified in the Strategic Business Case.

Bridge Repairs in West Tyrone

Mr Bresland asked the Minister for Regional Development how much funding has been provided in the current financial year for bridge repairs in the West Tyrone constituency. (AQO 4198/08)

Mr C Murphy: My Department’s Roads Service has allocated £800k to the maintenance and strengthening of bridges in the West Tyrone constituency during the 2008/09 financial year.

Water Charges

Mrs O’Neill asked the Minister for Regional Development what policy changes he will implement, as part of the water reform consultation, to address the financial burden on rural dwellers when connecting to the mains water supply. (AQO 4315/08)

Mr C Murphy: It is my intention to keep under review policy in relation to rural and urban dwellings not connected to the mains water supply.

The Executive has given a commitment to consult on the Independent Water Review Panel’s Strand 2 report and the issue of water and sewerage connections for existing households could be included in this consultation. This could be used to inform decisions on the way forward in terms of reviewing existing properties that are currently not connected to mains water.

The Executive are yet to conclude its proposals for consultation but I hope it will be in a position to do so shortly. In the meantime, levels of assistance for making connections here remain higher than in England, Wales or Scotland.

Development of Towns Damaged During the Troubles

Mr Simpson asked the Minister for Regional Development what priority he will give, as part of the Regional Development Strategy, to the development of towns whose commercial hearts have been affected by IRA bombings during the Troubles and have subsequently struggled to re-establish their economies. (AQO 4255/08)

Mr C Murphy: The RDS already recognises the importance of our main towns in providing a range of functions, services and economic development opportunities. As part of the major review of the RDS I have initiated an economic assessment of the main towns. This study is due to be completed by the end of August and it will provide important information for the review work. I am committed to ensuring that all our towns develop to their maximum potential and want this to be reflected in a revised Strategy.

Railway Line Closure in Ballymoney

Mr Storey asked the Minister for Regional Development whether he will ensure that the bus substitution service, put in place during the railway line closure at Ballymoney, will not significantly increase journey times. (AQO 4253/08)

Mr C Murphy: Translink have informed me that NI Railways are at the preliminary planning stages for bus substitution requirements for the work between Coleraine and Ballymena for the period March to June 2009. Unfortunately it is anticipated that bus substitution may add up to 30 minutes to the scheduled journey time, with the bus link expected to take up to 20 minutes longer than the rail link, plus additional time allowed at each end for passenger transfers.

Free Travel for Over 60s

Mr Brady asked the Minister for Regional Development what progress is being made in introducing free travel this year for people aged 60 years and over. (AQO 4280/08)

Mr C Murphy: I formally launched the 60+ SmartPass application process at Stormont on Monday, 23 June. Since then, application forms for the scheme have been available. From today, 30 June, people can take their completed forms to one of 25 application centres throughout the north. Correctly completed application forms submitted before the end of August will receive a 60+ SmartPass in time for the scheme’s commencement in early October 2008.

Social Development

Staff Warnings and Disciplinary Procedures

Mr Savage asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of staff in her department who, since 8 May 2007, have (i) received official warnings; and (ii) faced disciplinary procedures. (AQW 6144/08)

The Minister for Social Development (Ms M Ritchie): The number of employees in the Department for Social Development including its Agencies who have (i) received official warnings; and (ii) faced disciplinary procedures since 8 May 2007 are 744 and 183 respectively.

Housing Executive Land

Mr Ford asked the Minister for Social Development how much land is held by the Department or the Housing Executive for future housing development in the following areas: (i) Antrim; (ii) Armagh; (iii) Ballyclare; (iv) Ballymena; (v) Bangor; (vi) Coleraine; (vii) Cookstown; (viii) Donaghadee; (ix) Downpatrick; (x) Enniskillen; (xi) Lisburn; (xii) Larne; (xiii) Derry/Londonderry; (xiv) Newcastle; (xv) Newry; (xvi) Omagh; (xvii) Portadown; (xviii) Portstewart; and (xix) Strabane. (AQW 8094/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My Department holds land for regeneration purposes that may include potential use for social or affordable housing as follows:-

Antrim	284 acres
Ballymena	371 acres
Bangor	0.5 acres
Enniskillen	20 acres
Newry	2.3 acres
Craigavon	355 acres
Londonderry	64 acres

 

The Housing Executive has land which it is in the process of transferring to housing associations for social housing as follows:-

Antrim	6.4 acres
Armagh	24.6 acres
Ballymena	9.3 acres
Bangor	5.2 acres
Coleraine	2.3 acres
Downpatrick	0.9 acres
Fermanagh	11.9 acres
Lisburn	5.4 acres
Londonderry	25.0 acres
Newry	14.9 acres
Strabane	0.5 acres

 

Housing Executive Maintenance Budget

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development why there was a reduction of almost £4 million in the Housing Executive maintenance budget from 2006-07 to 2007-08, which remains unchanged in 2008-09. (AQW 8119/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Housing Executive is required to prioritise its funding allocation from central government on an annual basis to address areas of greatest need. However, programmes for maintenance and improvement have been allocated with a target to bring all properties up to Decent Homes standard by 2010.

Housing and Community Projects in East Antrim

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Social Development what projects her Department has delivered in the East Antrim constituency in the last 12 months; and what projects in the East Antrim constituency are due to commence in the next 12 months. (AQW 8147/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My Department has previously supported and delivered a range of regeneration, housing and community projects in the East Antrim constituency during the past year. Details of these projects and others which are due to commence in this year are listed below.

Regeneration

Projects delivered in the last 12 months

Carrickfergus Maritime area Public Realm Scheme

Carrickfergus Marine Highway Public Realm Scheme

Larne Town Centre Promotions & Marketing Scheme

Urban Development Grant – 41-43 Main St, Larne

 

Projects due to commence in the next 12 months

Larne Town Centre Masterplan

Carrickfergus Town Centre Masterplan

Carrickfergus Maritime area – final site under development consisting of office and residential use.

 

Housing

Projects delivered in the last 12 months

Victoria St, Carrickfergus Social Housing Project (8 dwellings)

Beechlands, Carnlough Social Housing Project (6 dwellings)

Social Housing Adaptations for the Disabled – Abbeyfield

Social Housing Adaptations for the Disabled – Abode Housing Association

Social Housing Adaptations for the Disabled – Wesley Housing Association

 

Projects due to commence in the next 12 months

Glenarm Social Housing Project (13 Dwellings)

Carrickfergus Social Housing Project (11 dwellings)

Social Housing Adaptations for the Disabled – Abbeyfield

Social Housing Adaptations for the Disabled – Wesley Housing Association

 

Community

Projects delivered in the last 12 months

Areas at Risk - Dunclug Action Plan – Parents and Kids Together

Youth Outreach Programme – Seacourt Community Council

Dunclug PAKT Project – Larne YMCA

Core Funding – Carrickfergus Community Forum

Core Funding – Larne Community Development Project

CVS Small Grants – Antiville Community Group

CVS Small Grants – Carrickfergus Citizens Advice

CVS Small Grants – Carrickfergus Women’s Forum

CVS Small Grants – Larne Community Care Centre

CVS Small Grants – The Open Door Centre

Educational Trips – Alive and Well Walking Group

Capacity Training Programmes – Antiville Community Group

Community Enrichment Programme – Carrick Rangers Football Development Centre

Committee Skills Training – Carrickfergus Community Forum

Community Activities Programme – Carrickfergus Neighbourhood Development Group

Castlemara PAKT Programme – Carrickfergus YMCA

Positive Parenting in the Community – Carrickfergus YMCA

Active Citizenship and Media Skills – Carrickfergus Young Citizens Forum

IMPACT in Monkstown Parents and Children – Church of the Good Shepherd/Hard Gospel

Linn Road Community Festival – Craigyhill Community Association

Outdoor Adventure – Craigyhill Community Association

Glenfield and Castlemara – The Way Forward – Glenfield Community Association

Community Leaders Programme – Larne Borough Council

Midnight Soccer – Larne Borough Council

Active Learning 2 – Monkstown Community Association

Community Intergenerational Project – New Mossley Presbyterian Youth Club

NORSUN Community Programme – Norsun Community Group

Social Activities Programme – Northlands Pensioners Group

ICT in the Community – Sunnylands Youth Centre

East Antrim Community Transformation Strategy – Monkstown Community Resource Group

SPOD Programme – Refurbishment of Community Flat - Dixon Park residents Association

SPOD Programme – Inver River Art Work – Larne Borough Council

SPOD Programme – Community Flat Running Costs – Riverdale and District Residents Association

SPOD Programme – Development of Action Plan and Refurbishment of Glynn Road Playground – Tullygarley Community Development Group

 

Projects due to commence in the next 12 months

Youth Outreach Programme – Seacourt Community Council

Employment of Project Worker – Larne YMCA

Running Costs – Carrickfergus Community Forum

Running Costs – Larne Community Development Project

Areas at Risk - Craigyhill

Areas at Risk - Antiville

 

Housing Executive Waiting List

Mr Ross asked the Minister for Social Development how many people are currently on the waiting list for Housing Executive properties in each area of (i) Larne; (ii) Carrickfergus; and (iii) Newtownabbey. (AQW 8151/08)

Ms M Ritchie: At 31 March 2008, the waiting list was as follows:

Larne	518 of which 195 were in housing stress
Carrickfergus	1,073 of which 561 were in housing stress
Newtownabbey	1,825 of which 1,011 were in housing stress

 

North West Development Office

Mrs McGill asked the Minister for Social Development to detail the current involvement of the North West Development Office in driving forward urban regeneration and development projects in (i) Derry/Londonderry; (ii) Limavady; and (iii) Strabane. (AQW 8180/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My Department’s North West Development Office has statutory responsibility for urban regeneration and community development across Derry, Limavady and Strabane. My Department, therefore, plays a key role in delivering the services and facilities that local people in these areas need by enhancing the physical, economic, social and community environment of the towns and neighbourhoods in which they live.

In Derry city centre the Guildhall Square/Waterloo Place public realm improvement scheme costing up to £8m is about to begin while a similar scheme in Newmarket Street costing £1m is nearing completion.

My Department is the main provider of funding towards the £3.69m refurbishment and extension of the Northern Counties building, which is an important part of Derry’s built heritage. In addition work is ongoing with a private sector developer to bring forward a £23m contemporary development on the former City Hotel site at Foyle Street.

DSD is also working closely with the Urban Regeneration Company Ilex to facilitate the regeneration of the former military site at Fort George, now in the Department’s ownership. The redeveloped site will contain a mix of knowledge based industry, office, education, leisure and retail.

In addition, in the Waterside area of Derry work is ongoing to redevelop the Clooney site as a new educational campus while the potential to develop the former Clondermott school site for a mix of community, health and FE uses is being actively explored.

The new £8m Health and Social Care Centre at Distillery Brae which I officially opened in December 2007 was developed and delivered by my Department in association with a consortium of local GPs. As well as revitalising the economy of the surrounding streets and providing greater access to vital health services the centre has recently been formally recognised by the RSUA for its design excellence.

In Strabane, my Department is continuing to work with Strabane District Council and the private sector to deliver a range of regeneration projects. Current examples of this include the facilitation of the new £15m ASDA development, the provision of some £1.04m towards the construction of the award winning £3.36m Arts and Conference Centre and the upgrading of Canal Street at a cost of some £260k.

Urban Development Grant assistance of some £200k is now being provided towards two projects at Abercorn Square and Lower Main Street. Furthermore, work is ongoing with Strabane District Council to prepare a master plan for the town centre, which will guide future regeneration activities in the town.

In Limavady, the Department continues to work with Limavady Borough Council to identify suitable projects. Recent work has included environmental improvements to Connell Street and Newtown Square car parks at a cost of some £390k and the £3m restoration of the former Roe Valley Hospital in partnership with Limavady Community Development Initiative and the International Fund for Ireland. Work is currently underway on a £150k environmental improvement scheme on the town’s Lower Main Street.

Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership Areas

Mrs McGill asked the Minister for Social Development (i) how much funding has been allocated to; and (ii) how many people have been employed in, each of the 36 Neighbourhood Renewal Partnership Areas since 2003. (AQW 8181/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Table 1 provides details of the initial allocations of the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund to each of the 36 Neighbourhood Renewal areas. Some flexibility is required in these initial allocations to ensure that the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund can be fully spent in any one year.

The information requested in part (ii) is not routinely collected and would involve disproportionate costs to secure for the whole of the period. However, information on the numbers of people employed in each of the areas as a result of support from the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund is available for 2007/08 financial year. Details are set out in Table 2.

	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Neighbourhood Renewal Area	£000s	£000s	£000s	£000s	£000s
BRO
Outer West Belfast - Colin	435	457	859	1,270	1,219
Upper Ardoyne	53	56	105	155	149
Ligoniel	66	70	131	194	186
Greater Shankill	524	550	1,035	1,530	1,469
Inner East Belfast	545	572	1,075	1,590	1,527
Outer West Belfast - Lenadoon	240	252	474	701	673
Upper Springfield/Whiterock	307	322	606	895	860
South West Belfast	172	180	339	500	481
Inner North Belfast	363	381	717	1,059	1,017
Inner South Belfast	172	181	340	503	483
Lower Falls/Clonard	437	459	863	1,276	1,225
Tullycarnet	58	61	115	170	164
Crumlin/Ardoyne	376	394	742	1,096	1,053
Rathcoole	207	218	409	605	581
Andersonstown	199	209	393	582	559
BRO Total	4,156	4,362	8,202	12,126	11,646
NWDO
Triax	467	490	922	1,364	1,310
Outer North	410	430	809	1,196	1,149
Outer West	247	260	488	722	693
Strabane	187	196	369	545	524
Waterside	235	246	463	685	658
Limavady	76	80	151	223	214
NWDO Total	1,622	1,703	3,202	4,734	4,547
RDO
Coleraine East (Ballysally)	100	105	198	293	281
Coleraine West (Churchlands)	68	71	133	197	189
Ballyclare	26	27	51	75	72
Downpatrick	139	146	275	407	391
Newry	271	284	534	790	759
Bangor	76	80	150	222	213
Armagh	122	128	241	357	343
Omagh	75	79	148	219	210
Dungannon	21	22	41	61	59
Lurgan	261	273	514	760	730
Portadown	70	74	139	206	197
Ballymena	124	131	245	363	348
Brownlow	178	187	352	521	500
Coalisland	49	52	98	144	139
Enniskillen	79	83	156	231	221
RDO Total	1,660	1,743	3,277	4,845	4,653
Total	7,438	7,807	14,682	21,705	20,846

 

Table 2

Neighbourhood Renewal Area	Number of People Employed
Belfast Regeneration Office
Inner East Belfast	46
South West Belfast	30
Greater Shankill	36
Greater Falls	51
Upper Springfield/Whiterock	39
Crunlin/Ardoyne	37
Tullycarnet	7
Inner South	13
Lenadoon	10
Colin	28
Inner North	31
Upper Ardoyne/Ballysillan	14
Ligoniel	7
Rathcoole	2
Andersonstown	12
North West Development Office
Triax	35
Outer North	50
Outer West	21
Waterside	34
* All 4 Derry/Londonderry NRAs	39
Strabane	7
Limavady	5
Regional Development Office
Armagh	3
Ballyclare	11
Ballymena	29
Bangor	4
Brownlow	1
Coleraine (East & West)	27
Downpatrick	13
Dungannon	3
Lurgan	2
Newry	9
Omagh	2
North West Portadown	2
Coalisland	3
Enniskillen	2

 

* Citywide projects that also provide services for the 4 Neighbourhood Renewal Areas in Derry/Londonderry, namely Triax, Outer North, Outer West and Waterside.

Modernisation Fund Capital Programme

Mrs McGill asked the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) all the groups that submitted an application to the Modernisation Fund Capital Programme; (ii) the groups that were deemed unsuccessful at the initial assessment stage; and (iii) the groups that have been informed that their application has been successful, subject to economic appraisal. (AQW 8182/08)

Ms M Ritchie: There were 475 applications made to the three schemes within the Modernisation Fund Capital Programme and they will be held in the assembly library.

All initial assessments have now been completed on applications to the programme and those that are not being taken forward to economic appraisal will be listed in the assembly library.

The applicants that have been informed that their projects are being taken forward to economic appraisal or have been placed on reserve will be listed in the assembly library.

Housing Association Homes

Lord Morrow asked the Minister for Social Development to detail, for the 2007-08 and 2008-09 financial years, the (i) number; (ii) location; (iii) cost per unit; and (iv) completion dates, of (a) new units already purchased directly from developers by Housing Associations; and (b) units identified for purchase from developers; and to stipulate which of these were as a result of a pre-planned scheme. (AQW 8192/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Table 1 details the new units already purchased directly from developers for 2007/08 and 2008/09. Table 2 details the new units scheduled for purchase in 2008/09.

These purchases, known as off the shelf purchases, are not pre-planned but arise where an opportunity presents itself in an area of identified need when it has proved difficult to secure land to build on.

The average cost per unit for those properties already purchased is £174,744.

Table 1 - New Units Purchased 2007/08 and 2008/09

Housing Association	Scheme	Units	Actual/Anticipated Completion Date
BIH	Bellevue Manor, Lisburn	19	Jun 08
BIH	1-3 Thorndale Avenue, Belfast	6	Mar 08
Clanmil	Beechlands, Carnlough	6	Jun 08
Clanmil	Causeway Meadows, Lisburn	22	Jun 08
Clanmil	Springfield Road, Belfast	16	Mar 08
Clanmil	Springfield Mill, Belfast	9	Mar 08
Dungannon	Millview, Manor, Dungannon	29	May 08
Fold	162-172 Antrim Road, Belfast	16	Aug 09
Fold	293 Antrim Road, Belfast	8	Aug 09
Fold	34 Cliftonville Road, Belfast	9	Jun 09
Fold	45 Cliftonville Road, Belfast	15	Jun 09
Fold	Carvill Site, Annadale, Belfast	50	Jun 10
Habinteg	Lawnbrook Avenue, Belfast	6	Jun 08
Habinteg	Mill Road, Bawnmore	8	May 08
Habinteg	23 Thorndale Avenue, Belfast	3	May 08
Habinteg	8 Glandore Avenue, Belfast	5	May 08
South Ulster	Springtown, Martins Lane, Newry	23	Jul 08
South Ulster	Gilpin Mews, Lurgan	20	Apr 08

 

Table 2 – New Units Scheduled for Purchase 2008/09

Housing Association	Scheme	Units	Anticipated Completion Date
BIH	Village Overspill Phase 2, Belfast	16	Not Yet Known
Clanmil	Foxhill, Londonderry	5	Jun 08
Clanmil	The Bush, Dungannon	6	Jun 08
Clanmil	Wolfhill Manor, Belfast	8	Jun 08
Newington	124-126 Antrim Road, Belfast	6	Jun 08
Oaklee	7a Glen Road, Londonderry	6	May 09
Rural	Aghagay Meadows, Newtownbutler	5	Jun 08
Rural	Eglish Road, Eglish, Armagh	6	Aug 08
Rural	7&8 Beech Tree Lane, Tempo	2	Dec 08
South Ulster	Mark Street, Lurgan	22	Jul 08
South Ulster	The Hollows, New Mills, Dungannon	9	Jun 08

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development how many away days and team-building exercises have been organised by her Department for departmental staff in each of the last five years. (AQW 8229/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Department for Social Development, including the Social Security Agency and Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division, organised away days and team-building exercises, in the last five years, as shown in the table below.

Year	Event	Number of Events
2003/04	Away Days	79
	Team Building	6
2004/05	Away Days	76
	Team Building	6
2005/06	Away Days	91
	Team Building	9
2006/07	Away Days	89
	Team Building	9
2007/08	Away Days	103
	Team Building	7

 

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development how many staff hours have been taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises, in each of the last five years. (AQW 8232/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The number of staff hours taken up with departmental or cross-departmental away days, or team-building exercises in the Department for Social Development, including the Social Security Agency and Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division is shown in the table below.

Year	Event	Staff Hours	Hours per staff member
2003/04	Away Days	6,324	0.72
	Team Building	2,597	0.30
2004/05	Away Days	4,554	0.54
	Team Building	1,095	0.13
2005/06	Away Days	4,772	0.57
	Team Building	1,733	0.21
2006/07	Away Days	5,755	0.69
	Team Building	3,224	0.39
2007/08	Away Days	7,201	0.88
	Team Building	970	0.12

 

Housing Executive Replacement Grants

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development how many Replacement Grants have been approved in each of the last 3 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency; and what plans she has to change the present criteria in relation to Replacement Grants. (AQW 8272/08)

Ms M Ritchie: In respect of plans to change existing criteria I would refer the Member to the answer I gave him in AQW 8117/08. The information on the number of replacement grants is not readily available by constituency. However, I can report at District Council level the number of Replacement Grants was as follows:-

Housing Executive Replacement Grant Approvals

	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08	Total
Antrim	0	1	1	2
Ards	1	2	0	3
Armagh	7	5	9	21
Ballymena	2	1	1	4
Ballymoney	2	0	2	4
Banbridge	7	5	9	21
Belfast	0	1	0	1
Carrickfergus	2	0	0	2
Castlereagh	0	0	0	0
Coleraine	2	2	0	4
Cookstown	9	5	3	17
Craigavon	5	6	3	14
Derry	1	7	1	9
Down	6	12	5	23
Dungannon	14	8	9	31
Fermanagh	61	40	39	140
Larne	1	2	2	5
Limavady	4	4	3	11
Lisburn	4	2	2	8
Magherafelt	6	8	6	20
Moyle	2	1	0	3
Newry and Mourne	13	11	12	36
Newtownabbey	0	0	0	0
North Down	0	0	0	0
Omagh	17	8	5	30
Strabane	4	5	4	13
Total	170	136	116	422

 

St Patrick’s Barracks Site in Ballymena

Mr McKay asked the Minister for Social Development if her Department has given a commitment to purchase the St Patrick’s Barracks site in Ballymena. (AQW 8374/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My Department has expressed an interest in acquiring the site. However, the Department has not given a commitment to purchase the site and does not currently have the necessary budgetary cover to meet the cost.

Extensions for the Disabled

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development how many extensions for the disabled have been carried out on Housing Executive properties in (i) the Ards Borough Council area; and (ii) other District Office areas, in each of the last 3 years. (AQW 8403/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The table below details the number of extensions completed for each of the last three years. Newtownards District Office equates to the Ards Borough Council area.

District Name	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Antrim	5	2	1
Armagh	3	1	3
Ballycastle	1	0	2
Ballymena	3	5	4
Ballymoney	0	2	1
Banbridge	3	3	4
Bangor	8	4	10
Carrickfergus	2	1	1
Castlereagh	4	9	2
Coleraine	6	4	2
Collon Terrace	8	9	18
Cookstown	5	3	5
Downpatrick	2	6	15
Dungannon	9	9	4
East Belfast	1	9	13
Fermanagh	1	5	7
Larne	3	3	0
Limavady	7	8	10
Lisburn Antrim Street	4	6	6
Lisburn Dairyfarm	11	1	4
Lurgan Brownlow	12	15	11
Magherafelt	4	5	7
Newry	14	9	9
Newtownabbey 1	1	0	0
Newtownards	22	19	15
North Belfast	5	9	6
Omagh	7	2	3
Portadown	3	5	3
Shankill	9	9	6
South Belfast	8	9	2
Strabane	8	10	12
Waterloo Place	7	11	12
Waterside	10	14	8
West Belfast	15	16	8
Total	211	223	214

 

Child Poverty

Ms Anderson asked the Minister for Social Development (i) what steps she is taking to implement the recommendations of the Child Poverty Inquiry and in particular how she intends to tackle the current crisis for people on low-income created by spiralling fuel costs; and (ii) what consideration she has given to providing additional payments or special tariffs for vulnerable groups. (AQW 8409/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Child Poverty is primarily the responsibility of the First and Deputy First Ministers. However, in response to the increasing cost of fuel, I have established a Task Force on Fuel Poverty which is focusing work across Government and the wider energy sector. The Task Force will report to me before the end of the summer. It is my intention to then seek Executive support for a package of measures that will assist those most in need this winter. I have already written to James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, on a number of issues, including the winter fuel payment.

Departmental Visits to Constituencies

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development how many visits she paid to North Down constituency in her first year of office. (AQW 8416/08)

Ms M Ritchie: In my first year of office I have visited the North Down constituency on 4 occasions.

National Strategy for Carers

Mr McNarry asked the Minister for Social Development (i) what progress has been made on the review of carers support; and (ii) what is the Department’s initial response to the National Strategy for Carers. (AQW 8455/08)

Ms M Ritchie: (i) Following the review of the National Carers’ Strategy, my Department and the Department for Health, Social Services and Public Safety are working together to take forward the review of support for carers in Northern Ireland.

(ii) Carers at the heart of 21st-century families and communities is a comprehensive document and I welcome the recognition it gives to the responsibilities undertaken by carers. We will be considering the document carefully as part of the Northern Ireland review.

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Minister for Social Development the total cost incurred by her Department on away days and team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 8471/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The total costs incurred by the Department for Social Development, including the Social Security Agency and Child Maintenance and Enforcement Division, on away days and team-building exercises in each of the last five years are detailed in the table below.

Year	Event	Cost (£)	Cost per head of staff (£)
2003/04	Away Days	24,108.08	2.76
	Team Building	43,051.92	4.92
2004/05	Away Days	59,015.46	7.01
	Team Building	4,805.00	0.57
2005/06	Away Days	63,076.63	7.49
	Team Building	22,896.14	2.72
2006/07	Away Days	63,511.18	7.61
	Team Building	16,486.34	1.97
2007/08	Away Days	46,988.62	5.76
	Team Building	5,625.72	0.69
Total		349,565.09	41.50

 

Derelict Houses in Craigavon

Mr Moutray asked the Minister for Social Development what action her Department is taking to address the negative social impact of derelict houses on local communities in the central Craigavon area. (AQW 8480/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I am concerned about the impact empty and derelict homes have right across our community and that is why I commissioned an Empty Homes Strategy. The aim of this strategy is to identify how many empty homes can be brought back into use and I have made £40m in private sector grants available this year that may help further encourage and support this objective.

In respect of the central Craigavon area itself, the Housing Executive’s Brownlow Strategy Review was launched in 2004 with the aim of re-energising the housing market in Brownlow and removing the blight of vacant and derelict properties. A total of 193 void and derelict dwellings have been demolished and two major portions of Housing Executive land in the central area of Brownlow have been sold to private developers to assist with regeneration.

Cost of Funerals

Mr O’Loan asked the Minister for Social Development (i) what is the average cost of a funeral; and (ii) what plans she has to increase the social security funeral benefit from the current maximum of £700 and to include (a) the cost of council fees where a funeral is held in a council cemetery; and to match these costs where a funeral is held in a church cemetery. (AQW 8489/08)

Ms M Ritchie: (i) The Department does not collect details of the average cost of a funeral.

(ii) In keeping with the principle of parity in social security matters the amount of the funeral payment is the same in Northern Ireland as it is in Britain and there are no plans to increase the payment for funeral expenses from the current maximum of £700.

In Social Fund legislation a funeral payment can cover any relevant expenditure. This can include the costs of purchasing a new burial plot and the fees levied in respect of a burial by the authority responsible or by a private grave-digger in respect of a church cemetery. An additional amount up to the maximum of £700 is paid to provide for any other funeral expenses. These expenses are unspecified in legislation but are intended to cover costs such as, undertaker’s fees, Minister’s fees or flowers.

New Shared Space Initiatives

Mr Dallat asked the Minister for Social Development what action she is taking to ensure that any new shared space initiatives being considered or introduced in town centres and other public spaces do not have a negative effect on the road safety of blind, partially sighted and other disabled people. (AQW 8507/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My Department is responsible for town and city centre regeneration which includes public realm and environmental improvement schemes. As part of the design aspect of these schemes, there is an undertaking to consult widely including Disability Group representatives. Each scheme must also be Disability Discrimination Act compliant on completion and an Equality Impact Assessment is normally carried out to ensure that the scheme meets guidelines on addressing disability and other equality issues.

The Department for Regional Development’s Roads Service manages the implementation of a significant proportion of the public realm and environmental improvement schemes funded by my Department.

They ensure that the project is designed and implemented to conform to the required specifications including road safety for the blind, partially sighted and other disabled people.

In order to assist the visually impaired, Roads Service has an ongoing programme of installing tactile paving, tactile cones and also the use of audible signals, at pedestrian crossings, where this is deemed appropriate.

People in Housing Stress in Cookstown and Magherafelt

Mr McGlone asked the Minister for Social Development the current number of people in housing stress in Cookstown District Council area and Magherafelt District Council area; and to outline the current Housing Association new build programme for these district council areas. (AQW 8511/08)

Ms M Ritchie: At 31 March 2008, the number of people in housing stress in Cookstown District Council area was 147 and in Magherafelt District Council the number was 310.

The tables below detail the social housing programme for each council area for the period 2007/08 to 2112/13. Those in 2007/08 have already started on site.

Cookstown District Council Area

Provider	Location	Units	Need
2007/08
Triangle	Old Rectory Park, Cookstown	3	General Needs
2008/09
Habinteg	Ballyronan, Cookstown	7	General Needs
2011/12
To be confirmed	Cookstown, South	25	General Needs
To be confirmed	Stewartstown, Cookstown	6	General Needs
2012/13
To be confirmed	Cookstown North	10	General Needs
To be confirmed	The Rock, Cookstown	6	General Needs
To be confirmed	Cookstown South	25	Elderly

 

Magherafelt District Council Area

Provider	Location	Units	Need
2007/08
North & West	56 Highfield Road, Magherafelt	1	General Needs
North & West	31 Sunnyside Park, Maghera	1	General Needs
2010/11
BIH	Magherafelt Town Phase 1	39	General Needs
To be confirmed	Gulladuff	6	General Needs
To be confirmed	Knockloughrim	10	General Needs
2011/12
To be confirmed	Bellaghy	10	General Needs
To be confirmed	Maghera	30	General Needs
To be confirmed	Swatragh	6	General Needs
North & West	Draperstown	12	General Needs
2012/13
To be confirmed	Ballymaguigan, Magherafelt	6	General Needs
To be confirmed	Clady, Portglenone	6	General Needs
To be confirmed	Draperstown	18	General Needs
To be confirmed	Inishrush, Magherafelt	6	General Needs
To be confirmed	Magherafelt Town Phase 2	80	General Needs
To be confirmed	Magherafelt	25	Elderly
To be confirmed	Magherafelt	10	Young people/care

 

Development Site at Foyle Street in Derry/Londonderry

Ms Anderson asked the Minister for Social Development for an update on her plans for the development site at Foyle Street in Derry/Londonderry, and what plans her Department has to utilize the new procurement guidelines as part of its redevelopment of this site. (AQW 8526/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The selected developer, Big Picture, is currently working with the Department’s North West Development Office and DOE Planning Service to finalise detailed design proposals for the Foyle Street site. Construction work is expected to commence on site later this year/early 2009 following completion of a Development Agreement between the Department and the developer.

In relation to the application of the new procurement guidelines, the Department will dispose of this site to Big Picture, who will appoint a contractor to carry out the construction phase of the project. Therefore the Department has no responsibility for procurement in this case.

Neighbourhood Renewal

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development the outcome of the Equality Impact Assessment carried out in relation to the introduction of grading of posts as part of Neighbourhood Renewal. (AQW 8544/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Posts funded through the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund are not subject to specific Neighbourhood Renewal grading arrangements.

Budget Allocation for Social Housing

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development how the additional budget allocation for social housing has been spent, broken down by parliamentary constituency; and whether any of the money allocated for the building of social housing has been used for other programmes. (AQW 8546/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The additional £205m allocation for the Social Housing Development Programme will help deliver 5,250 new social houses over the next three years and none of this allocation has been diverted to other programmes.

Upper Long Streets Residents’ Committee

Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister for Social Development to explain why she has not met the Upper Long Streets Residents’ Committee, which is a Constituted Housing Group, to discuss the proposed Urban Renewal Area Plan for that area. (AQW 8547/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I have already met with the Upper Long Streets Homeowners Association. I have not yet received a request for a meeting from the Upper Long Streets Residents’ Committee. However my officials met with representatives from the group as recently as 19 June.

Peace III Applications

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development what plans she has to match fund community groups for Peace III applications. (AQW 8551/08)

Ms M Ritchie: DSD is the Accountable Department for Priority 2.1 of the Peace III Programme and will provide match funding through the Special EU Programmes Body for applications approved under this Priority.

North Down Alternatives

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development when she will consider funding for North Down Alternatives. (AQW 8587/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Northern Ireland Alternatives has submitted an application to my Department, for funding under the Neighbourhood Renewal Initiative. The application, which includes the organisation’s North Down office, is currently under consideration.

North Down Alternatives

Mr Easton asked the Minister for Social Development if she is aware that North Down Alternatives have met the Northern Ireland Office protocols. (AQW 8604/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Yes.

Action on Disability Project

Ms J McCann asked the Minister for Social Development what negotiations her Department has had with other Departments on the sustainability of the ‘Action on Disability’ project in the West Belfast constituency. (AQW 8655/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My officials met with ‘Action on Disability’ on 02 July 2008 to discuss future support for the project.

Local Postal Services

Mr Dallat asked the Minister for Social Development what consideration has been given and what progress has been made by her Department to utilise the Post Office as a source, agency or outlet for the delivery of its services as outlined in the May 2008 report of the Assembly’s Ad Hoc Committee, ‘Report of the Committee’s Consideration of, and Proposals for, Partnership that could Enhance the Economic Case for Viable Local Postal Services’. (AQW 8739/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Ad Hoc Committee on Local Postal Services’ Report made a number of recommendations to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) concerning the future of Postal Services and the Post Office network. Junior Minister Donaldson and Junior Minister Kelly wrote to Executive Ministers on 21 April asking them to consider whether any further public services could be delivered through post offices.

Within the Department for Social Development we have been unable to identify any further services that could be delivered through Post Offices at this time. We will continue to look at opportunities as they arise to consider whether any new public service could be delivered through the Post Office although these would be subject to the appropriate competitive process in accordance with EU procurement policy.

New Housing Agenda

Dr Farry asked the Minister for Social Development for her assessment of the problems encountered in providing suitable public housing for persons in mixed marriages or relationships within a segregated system. (AQW 8815/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I have made the provision of more shared future housing a central theme of the New Housing Agenda. In addition to providing more shared future developments, I plan to extend the shared future concept to 30 existing neighbourhoods over the next 3 years and will announce details of this on 19th August.

I am encouraged by the number of neighbourhoods that have already expressed an interest in our plans and this housing will be enjoyed and welcomed by many, particularly those from a mixed marriage or relationship.

Warm Homes Scheme

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development what steps she is taking to encourage those people over 60 years of age and in receipt of benefits to have their homes upgraded under the Warm Homes Scheme. (AQW 8834/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Warm Homes Scheme has in some ways been a victim of its own success as it is now oversubscribed. I have instructed Eaga to prioritise applications to ensure that those most in need get help first. Applicants aged 70 and over or those over 60 who have no central heating, solid fuel or Economy 7 heating will be treated as a priority. I am also keen to identify further ways to help those in greatest need this winter through the Fuel Poverty Taskforce I established in May. Based on the recommendations of the Task Force, I will seek Executive support, in Autumn, for a package of measures to assist the most vulnerable.

Winter Fuel Allowance

Mr P Maskey asked the Minister for Social Development if she will consult with the Minister of Finance and Personnel to consider increasing the winter fuel allowance for people aged 60-79 to match that awarded to people aged 80 years and over, given the rise in oil fuel heating. (AQO 4311/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The Winter Fuel Payment Scheme was introduced in January 1998 with the aim of providing specific help to those aged 60 or over with their winter fuel bills. In keeping with the principle of parity in social security matters the amount of the payment and the eligibility criteria are the same here as in Britain.

An additional £100 has been paid to those aged 80 or over since the winter of 2003/2004, as people within this age bracket are recognised as being more likely than younger pensioners to live on a lower income and to spend a greater proportion of that income on fuel.

I have no plans to write to the Minister for Finance and Personnel because this issue falls outside his remit. I have written, however, to James Purnell, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, seeking a meeting to discuss the Winter Fuel Payment and the potential for further assisting those people in most need this winter.

North/South Co-operation

Mr Attwood asked the Minister for Social Development for an overview of the work she has been undertaking to promote North/South co-operation. (AQO 4234/08)

Ms M Ritchie: If there is to be the progress I want across the range of issues for which I am responsible, and indeed across the range of issues that face the Executive as a whole, it is vital among other things to learn from the experience of others.

That is why I place great importance on working with the Irish government where there are opportunities for mutual benefit through the sharing of lessons and experience. Opportunities through the workings of the North South Ministerial Council and the British Irish Council are important in helping to further this shared agenda.

In the coming weeks and months I look forward to a further round of engagement with my Ministerial counterparts in the Irish Government to discuss our common interests on matters like tackling disadvantage, the social and physical regeneration of communities and on practical responses to the housing crisis.

Reform of Liquor Licensing

Mr O’Loan asked the Minister for Social Development when she will bring forward proposals for the reform of liquor licensing. (AQO 4236/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I intend to bring policy proposals to the Social Development Committee for comment in September and to present a paper to the Executive for consideration as soon as possible thereafter.

Orange Community Network

Mr McNarry asked the Minister for Social Development to outline her discussions with the Orange Community Network on 6 June 2008. (AQO 4209/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My meeting of 6 June with the Orange Community Network and Brookmount Cultural and Education Society was an opportunity for the Orange Community Network to outline the work they have been engaged over the last 2 years and for me to hear, first hand, the positive impact the organisation has had on Brookmount Cultural and Education Society.

Unoccupied Homes

Mr Armstrong asked the Minister for Social Development the total number of empty homes and what action she is taking on this issue. (AQO 4300/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Following examination of the original figures it is now evident that there are approximately 20,000 empty properties, not the 40,000 first estimated. If we discount those going through the normal churn of the housing market that number reduces to 4,900. I have established a dedicated unit within the Housing Executive to identify just how many of these 4,900 homes could potentially be used. The staff are currently visiting many of these properties and tracing owners as part of our Action Plan to bring such homes back into the housing market. To help encourage owners to bring these empty homes back into use they will be subject to 100% rating liability from 1 April 2009, subject to the Assembly passing the proposed amended rates legislation currently being consulted on.

Housing Reallocation

Dr Deeny asked the Minister for Social Development to confirm whether letters of support from GPs and health professionals may accompany applications for housing reallocation on medical grounds. (AQO 4277/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I can confirm that letters of support from General Practitioners and health professionals may accompany applications for housing reallocation on medical grounds but are not usually necessary.

Public Sector Jobs

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister for Social Development to outline the discussions she has had with Sir George Bain on the relocation of public sector jobs. (AQO 4208/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I met with Sir George Bain on 12 June 2008 for a general discussion on the relocation of public sector jobs. I will be meeting with him again prior to the publication of his report.

Dunclug Action Plan

Mr Storey asked the Minister for Social Development to give an update on the timescale for the Dunclug Action Plan. (AQO 4284/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Phase One of the Housing Executive’s work in Dunclug is scheduled to start in November 2008. The Housing Executive is finalising its plans for Phase Two, which will be completed by April 2010.

Affordable Housing

Mr Cobain asked the Minister for Social Development if she will explore with private developers the potential for an ‘easy start’ scheme for affordable homes, with 75% payable initially and 25% in ten years time through an interest free loan, similar to a scheme developed by Taylor Wimpey. (AQO 4207/08)

Ms M Ritchie: My officials are already exploring a range of developer led affordable housing opportunities with private developers. Schemes similar to those developed by Taylor/Wimpey are already available across a number of private developments in Northern Ireland.

Disabled Extensions in Ards Borough and Strangford Constituency

Mr Shannon asked the Minister for Social Development what steps she is taking to address the delay in disabled extensions in (i) Ards borough; and (ii) Strangford constituency. (AQO 4215/08)

Ms M Ritchie: Delays in disabled adaptation work are caused by the lack of suitable decant accommodation, issues associated with the planning process, and the availability of specialist contractors who can handle the work. The Housing Executive will seek to effectively manage its existing stock, to better facilitate those tenants affected by adaptations. It will also continue to liaise closely with the relevant Planning Offices in an effort to resolve the outstanding issues

Environmental Improvement Schemes in the Markets Area in Belfast

Mr A Maskey asked the Minister for Social Development to clarify the current position of proposed environmental improvement schemes in the Markets area, South Belfast. (AQO 4291/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The scheduled commencement dates for the Markets Environmental Improvement Scheme are detailed in the table below.

Scheme	*Estimated start date	Estimated Cost
Markets Phase 4 (project no.2636707)	Feb 2009	£827,000
Scheme includes Welsh Street, McAuley Street, Stewart Street and Eliza Street Close.
Markets Phase 3 (project no. 2636685)	Jan 2010	£907,100
Scheme includes Friendly Street, Friendly Row, Friendly Way and Friendly Place

 

Local Councils

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister for Social Development, in relation to her dealings with local councils, what assessment she has made of any loss of operational efficiency with a 15-council model compared to an 11-council model. (AQO 4206/08)

Ms M Ritchie: In July 2007 my Department assessed that, in addition to existing resources, carrying out urban regeneration and community development functions at local Government level would require an estimated additional 55 staff at a cost of £1,923k per annum in a 15 Council model as opposed to an additional 43 staff at a cost of £1,501k in an 11 Council model. This represents a difference of 12 staff and costs of £422k. Whilst the urban regeneration and community development functions transferring to Councils under Devolution remain largely unchanged, a more detailed analysis will be required to more accurately determine the extent of additional resources required, once the operational models for the new Councils are developed.

Any information held relating to housing functions to be transferred to Councils would no longer be relevant as there has been substantial change to those functions earmarked for transfer, following the work of the Executive Sub-committee on RPA.

New Housing Agenda

Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister for Social Development what progress is being made on the Shared Future element of her new housing agenda. (AQO 4237/08)

Ms M Ritchie: As part of my New Housing Agenda, I have already made it clear that I want to deliver housing that brings people together rather than keeping them apart.

Over the next three years, in addition to identifying new shared future housing developments, I plan to roll out a Shared Future Neighbourhood Programme to 30 existing neighbourhoods and I will be announcing details of this when I launch this Programme on 19 August.

Funding for Urban Regeneration

Mr Poots asked the Minister for Social Development what funding is available for urban regeneration in the period of the comprehensive spending review. (AQO 4304/08)

Ms M Ritchie: The figures requested are as follows –

Table 1. Urban Regeneration funding
from 2008 to 2011

	2008/09 £m	2009/10 £m	2010/11 £m
(i) Urban Regeneration	73.677	55.86	113.627

 

Social Housing in Rural Areas

Mr Burns asked the Minister for Social Development the steps she is taking to provide more social and affordable housing in rural areas. (AQO 4244/08)

Ms M Ritchie: I am particularly concerned about the lack of social and affordable housing in rural communities. I have been engaged in the Ministerial Sub-Group on Rural Planning and have been negotiating for a relaxation in the restrictions on social and affordable housing development on rural settlements. Good progress has been made and I am confident this will sustain and invigorate many rural communities.

Assembly Commission

Staff Figures in Parliament Buildings

Mr K Robinson asked the Assembly Commission how many staff in total, including (i) civil servants; (ii) Assembly secretariat staff; (iii) Assembly Members’ staff; (iv) catering staff; (v) security staff; and (vi) ancillary staff, are employed in Parliament Buildings. (AQW 8183/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): At 25 June 2008, up to a total of 735 staff were located in Parliament Buildings. I have attached details of the staff numbers by category as requested.

Staff Located in Parliament Buildings

Category	Number
(i) Civil Servants (NICS employees)	7
(ii) Secretariat Staff	261
(iii) Assembly Members’ staff:- Members’ Support Staff Party Support Staff	302 17
(iv) Catering (and cleaning) Staff	73
(v) Doorkeepers/Security Staff	58
(vi) Ancillary Staff TSO staff in Stationery Office Assembly Broadcasting Handymen / Contract	4 11 2

 

(i) Civil Servants - staff employed and working for the NICS.

(ii) Secretariat Staff – This includes staff employed by the NI Assembly Commission, staff seconded to the Assembly from NICS Departments, NIO and Agency workers. This figure does not include 48 Assembly Secretariat staff located in Annexe C.

(iii) Assembly Members’ staff - This includes:-

Members’ Support Staff - work location is determined by the Member and can be in Parliament Buildings or the Constituency office or part time in each location.

Party Support Staff - work location is determined by the Party and can be in Parliament Buildings or a Party office or part time in each location.

(iv) Catering Staff - Provided by Eurest and based in Parliament Buildings. The figure also includes cleaning staff.

(v) Security Staff – There are currently 58 Doorkeepers/Security Guards in Parliament Buildings.

(vi) Ancillary Staff - This has been taken to refer to non-Secretariat staff based in Parliament Buildings. There are 4 staff in the Stationery Office (TSO), 11 in Assembly Broadcasting and 2 tradesmen from H&J Martin

Team-Building Exercises

Mr Weir asked the Assembly Commission the total cost incurred by the Commission on away days or team-building exercises in each of the last five years. (AQW 8474/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): In reply to your question the Assembly Commission has held a total of three planning events from their appointment on the 9 May 2007. The total cost incurred for these events was £4,587.37.

Security Review

Mr W Clarke asked the Assembly Commission what procurement and tendering process was used for contracts that were awarded in relation to the security review. (AQW 8520/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): The construction related work carried out following the review of security was managed by Properties Division, an agency within the Department of Finance and Personnel and was carried out under the terms of their measured term contract (MTC).

Specialist items that cannot be measured under the terms of the MTC contract are procured either from the Office of Government Commerce Buying Solutions (OGC) framework, as was the case for the prefabricated search hut or by means of specialist quotations through the MTC contractor. The upgrade of the public address system and the supply and installation of the hydraulic gates were procured by means of such specialist quotations.

The search equipment (x-ray scanners and magnetometers) were procured by means of an open tender exercise.

In furtherance of a recommendation contained in the security review a formal written service level agreement was entered into with the Police Service of Northern Ireland in order to provide security services to the Assembly.

The overall purpose of the agreement is to ensure a safe environment for Members, employees and the public.

Security Review

Mr W Clarke asked the Assembly Commission if an equality impact assessment was carried out in relation to the security review. (AQW 8521/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): The Northern Ireland Assembly Commission submitted a draft Equality Scheme to the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland on 14 February 2008 and this was subsequently approved on 27 February 2008.

Under the terms of the Equality Scheme the Northern Ireland Assembly Commission committed to undertaking a systematic screening process of all policies within the Assembly.

The initial screening process on policies has just been completed and a report will be presented to the Assembly Commission for approval in due course. The outcome of the process and the final report will be made available through a full public consultation with Members, staff and interested organisations. Included within this report will be a draft timetable outlining when the Assembly Commission proposes to undertake equality impact assessments that are determined necessary during the screening process.

In the meantime, if you wish to raise any particular concerns in relation to the implementation of the Security Policy, prior to the publication of this report, I would encourage you to provide further details and I can assure you that they will be fully considered.

The nominated official charged with the implementation and review of the Equality Scheme is:

Mr T Logue
Clerk to the Assembly Commission
Room 107
Parliament Buildings
Stormont
Belfast BT4 3XX

Security Review

Mr W Clarke asked the Assembly Commission pursuant to AQW 7472/08, when the full costs of the implementation of the review of security and the proposed annual running costs will be made available. (AQW 8522/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter):

The only areas where there remains dispute in respect of the costs are those associated with the construction elements of the security review. These work items were managed by Properties Division, an agency within Department of Finance and Personnel, and it is anticipated that negotiations with PD and the contractors will take place in the next few weeks.

The costs provided in AQW7472/08 are the current estimates supplied by PD and it is not expected that negotiations will result in any increase to these costs.

Security Review

Mr W Clarke asked the Assembly Commission when the increase in security, as part of the security review, will be reviewed. (AQW 8523/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): All of the elements of the security review are kept under constant review.

The Assembly Commission receives regular feedback from the PSNI and all security measures are subject to change to meet an increase or decrease in the perceived threat.

Access to Parliament Buildings

Mr McKay asked the Assembly Commission what doors visitors and pass holders are allowed to use to access Parliament Buildings; and what plans there are to review these arrangements. (AQW 8579/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): All Assembly pass holders can access Parliament Buildings through the east or west doors while Members can access the building through all doors.

Visitors pass through security at the search unit and then access the building through the front door. However, where a visitor is travelling with an upper car park permit holder (Member or senior management) they can access the building through the east or west doors.

Disabled pass holders and visitors are permitted access to the upper car parks and can enter the building through the east or west door.

In addition arrangements can be made for access at any time at the ‘slope’ entrance at the north side of the building. This is usually used at off peak times when the other doors are not open or by service personnel.

These arrangements have been in place since 16 April 2008 and are continually kept under review.

Office of the Clerk /Director General

Mr Attwood asked the Assembly Commission further to AQW 8554/08, if it considers that the head post in the Office of the Clerk /Director General is considered to be a new post and if so, if it will be filled by public recruitment. (AQW 8783/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): You will recall that in response to AWQ 8556/08 I explained that a decision on the staffing structure within the Office of the Clerk/Director General had yet to be finalised. No decision has yet been taken as to whether there will be such a position as the Head of the Office of the Clerk/Director General in the revised organizational structure.

Office of the Clerk/Director General

Mr Attwood asked the Assembly Commission further to AQW 8556/08 (i) when a decision of the staffing structure of the Office of the Clerk/Director General is anticipated; and (ii) if the Commission has agreed in principle, or senior management has recommended, that the position of Head of Office shall be recruited by (a) public competition; (b) internal competition; or (c) internal promotion. (AQW 8785/08)

The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Rev Dr R Coulter): The Clerk/Director General will be seeking the views of the Commission shortly on the matter of a post of Head of Office of the Clerk Director General. No decisions have been taken or recommendations made on any recruitment methodology.

CORRIGENDA

Written Answer Booklet of 27 June 2008
(Volume 32, No WA1)

In page WA82, col 1, replace the answer to question (AQW 8194/08) with;

Under the existing contract the relief vessel has a passenger certificate.

Under the new contract the relief vessel is a freight-only vessel without a passenger certificate as an additional passenger only vessel will be available for this purpose.