This publication contains the written answers to questions tabled by Members. The content of the responses is as received at the time from the relevant Minister or representative of the Assembly Commission and has not been subject to the official reporting process or changed in any way.
NORTHERN IRELAND ASSEMBLY
Friday 15 June 2007
Written Answers to Questions
Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister
Agriculture and Rural Development
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Education
Employment and Learning
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Environment
Finance and Personnel
Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Regional Development
Social Development
OFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER
Disabled Parking Bays
Mr John Dallat asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to outline proposals to ensure that regulations relating to parking bays reserved for disabled people in car parks operated by supermarkets and other retail outlets are enforced. (AQW 460/07)
The First Minister and Deputy First Minister (Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness): There is no specific legislation relating to the use or misuse of parking bays for disabled people on private land (such as supermarkets and retail outlets) and therefore the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister has no responsibility for enforcement in this regard.
Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA), however, providers of services to the public, such as supermarkets, are under a duty not to discriminate against disabled people and make "reasonable adjustments" to the way they provide their services. The provision of disabled car parking bays could be considered a "reasonable adjustment" for disabled customers. A disabled person, if unable to access a supermarket, through the lack of provision of or misuse of a disabled parking bay could consider taking a case of discrimination under the service provisions of the DDA. It is for individual outlets to decide on how they deal with any misuse of such parking spaces.
Planning Appeals Commission
Mr Ian McCrea asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what controls it has over the Planning Appeals Commission. (AQW 483/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) is a statutory independent appeal body established under the Planning (NI) Order 1991 to decide a wide range of appeals against decisions of the Department of Environment’s Planning Service and to report on various matters under planning and other legislation.
The Commission exercises its functions independently of OFMDFM but the Department is responsible for providing the resources needed for the Commission to discharge its responsibilities. Responsibility for planning policy generally rests with DRD and the DOE.
The roles and responsibilities of those involved in managing the PAC and its relationship with OFMDFM are set out in a Memorandum of Understanding. In addition to describing the relationship the Memorandum also defines the financial and administrative framework in which the Commission operates. The Department holds regular (quarterly) meetings with the Management Board of PAC.
Civic Forum
Mr John Dallat asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to outline proposals for a new Civic Forum. (AQO 46/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: It is important that the most appropriate mechanisms and arrangements are in place for obtaining the views of civic society, as a whole, on issues which affect the lives of everyone living in Northern Ireland. That was recognised in August 2006 by the Assembly’s Preparation for Government Committee, on which all the major parties were represented, when they recommended that there should be "a review of the mechanisms for civic society to promote its views." We intend to carry out that review.
The Civic Forum was originally established as a consultative mechanism on social, economic and cultural issues as they were perceived at that time. Civic society in Northern Ireland has changed enormously since the Forum was first established and the deputy First Minister and I want to determine what are the best arrangements for engaging with civic society in that changed environment.
In the meantime, we think that the current members of the Forum might play a role in contributing to the policy development process across the range of Executive consultation exercises and we will be writing to most members of the Forum asking them whether they would be prepared to reconvene while the review was being carried out. At this stage we are simply ascertaining how many of the current members are available and will decide then whether to recall them based on their responses.
Financial Cost of The Divide
Mr Brian Wilson asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what progress is being made on research commissioned by the Department into the 'Financial Cost of the Divide' in Northern Ireland. (AQO 22/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The department commissioned Deloitte to undertake research into the ‘Financial Cost of the Divide’ in April 2006. The final report of the project was received just prior to devolution. This is a very comprehensive and complex piece of research and we wish to take time to consider it. We will publish the report as soon as possible.
First Minister of Scotland
Rev Dr Robert Coulter asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister if it has had any discussions with the First Minister of Scotland, and what has been the outcome of those discussions. (AQO 30/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The deputy First Minister and I have both spoken to the First Minister of Scotland to convey our congratulations on his appointment and to extend an invitation to him to visit Belfast.This visit will take place next week at which time we look forward to discussions on a range of issues of mutual interest.
Civic Forum
Mrs Dolores Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to make a statement on future plans for the re-establishment of the Civic Forum. (AQO 44/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: It is important that the most appropriate mechanisms and arrangements are in place for obtaining the views of civic society, as a whole, on issues which affect the lives of everyone living in Northern Ireland. That was recognised in August 2006 by the Assembly’s Preparation for Government Committee, on which all the major parties were represented, when they recommended that there should be "a review of the mechanisms for civic society to promote its views." We intend to carry out that review.
The Civic Forum was originally established as a consultative mechanism on social, economic and cultural issues as they were perceived at that time. Civic society in Northern Ireland has changed enormously since the Forum was first established and the deputy First Minister and I want to determine what are the best arrangements for engaging with civic society in that changed environment.
In the meantime, we think that the current members of the Forum might play a role in contributing to the policy development process across the range of Executive consultation exercises and we will be writing to most members of the Forum asking them whether they would be prepared to reconvene while the review was being carried out. At this stage we are simply ascertaining how many of the current members are available and will decide then whether to recall them based on their responses.
Reduction in Number of Government Departments
Mr Ken Robinson asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister when the Executive will be discussing proposals for a reduction in the number of Northern Ireland government departments. (AQO 29/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: We are aware of the view that the number of Northern Ireland government departments is too large to provide efficient and effective administration. For this reason we intend to establish an Efficiency Review Panel which will be charged to report on this issue, within terms of reference agreed by the Northern Ireland Assembly. It is not yet possible therefore to indicate precisely when any discussion by the Executive on this issue will take place.
Funding of Victims' Groups
Mr Simon Hamilton asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister if it will undertake a review of the funding of victims' groups and organisations. (AQO 5/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: We are currently considering how best to meet the needs of victims and survivors. We are doing this within the context of the comprehensive spending review.
We plan to bring forward detailed proposals that will address the needs of groups and individuals effectively, efficiently and in a systematic and comprehensive manner.
In doing so we will, of course, have regard to the report published by Bertha McDougall.
Remit of Executive Responsibility
Mr David Burnside asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to make a statement on the powers of individual Ministers to take decisions outside the remit of Executive responsibility. (AQO 4/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: Ministers direct and control their departments subject to the Ministerial Code and the Pledge of Office. The Ministerial Code requires Ministers to bring certain matters specified in the Code (namely matters which cut across the responsibilities of two or more Ministers, require agreement on prioritisation, require the adoption of a common position, have implications for the Programme for Government, are significant or controversial and are clearly outside the Programme for Government or are significant or controversial and the First Minister and deputy First Minister acting jointly have determined should be considered by the Executive) to the attention of the Executive to be considered by the Executive. The Pledge of Office requires Ministers to act in accordance with all decisions of the Executive.
Accordingly Ministers have power to take decisions without reference to the Executive on all other matters.
Sustainable Development Strategy
Mr Tommy Gallagher asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to set out the plans that are currently in place to monitor the contribution of government departments and public authorities to the objectives of Northern Ireland's Sustainable Development Strategy. (AQO 27/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister will monitor the Sustainable Development Strategy contributions of Government Departments and any contributing public authorities by undertaking annual reviews of progress against the specific targets and actions in the Strategy’s Implementation Plan. The first such review will be undertaken after 31 March 2008.
A set of sustainable development indicators is also being developed to measure overall progress towards the overarching strategic themes and objectives of the Sustainable Development Strategy. Arrangements will be put in place to monitor these.
Segregated Public Services
Dr Stephen Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what research has been commissioned on the cost of segregated public services in Northern Ireland, and the timescale for its publication. (AQO 23/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The department commissioned Deloitte to undertake research into the ‘Financial Cost of the Divide’ in April 2006. The final report of the project was received just prior to devolution. This is a very comprehensive and complex piece of research and we wish to take time to consider it. We will publish the report as soon as possible.
Ministerial Code
Mr Declan O'Loan asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to make a statement on the Ministerial Code. (AQO 35/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: Under the provisions of paragraph 4 (2) of Schedule 1 of the Northern Ireland (St Andrews Agreement) Act 2006 the draft Ministerial Code approved by the Assembly on 20 March 2007 became the Ministerial Code for the purposes of Section 28A of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 upon the restoration of devolution. The statutory Ministerial Code therefore took effect from 8 May 2007.
Fair Employment Monitoring Regulations
Mrs Naomi Long asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what plans it has to review the current approach to Fair Employment Monitoring Regulations. (AQO 11/07)
Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: A review of the current approach to Fair Employment Monitoring Regulations will form part of the process in bringing forward any Single Equality legislation. It is the intention that all Anti-discrimination and Equality legislation is fit for purpose and an integral part of ensuring legislative effectiveness is the duties that are imposed and how they are enforced. The Fair Employment Monitoring Regulations is just one of the elements to be examined in this context.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Farm Nutrient Management Scheme
Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to provide additional funds for the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme for farmers who have applied, but have not yet received approval. (AQW 412/07)
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms Gildernew):I have secured the necessary financial assurances from the Department of Finance and Personnel to allow DARD to continue to process applications received for the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme between now and the publication by the Executive of its draft Budget and Investment Strategy at the end of September 2007.
I have undertaken that DARD will seek to realise receipts from the strategic disposal of land assets within the period covered by the Comprehensive Spending Review, which ends in 2010/2011, to mitigate the pressure on public expenditure.
Relocation of DARD Staff
Mr Dominic Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many staff are to be relocated from Omagh, Ballymena and Newry DARD offices to Dundonald House. (AQW 414/07)
Ms Gildernew: None. While there may be some relocations outside Belfast, there are presently no plans to relocate staff from Omagh, Ballymena and Newry DARD offices to Dundonald House.
Proposed Reform of the Forestry Act (Northern Ireland) 1953
Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to use the proposed reform of the Forestry Act (Northern Ireland) 1953 to ensure that woodland is safeguarded in future legislation and policy; and if she will confirm that there will be an opportunity for interested bodies to contribute to this process. (AQW 435/07)
Ms Gildernew: My Department has completed an extensive review of forestry policy which included two rounds of public consultation. This resulted in the publication of NI Forestry: A Strategy for Sustainability and Growth in March 2006 which confirmed forest policy and produced a strategy for it’s delivery.
The Strategy outlines two key policy aims- an increase in the area of woodland; and the sustainable management of existing woods and forests. In order to deliver sustainable management of forests, the Strategy indicates, amongst other things, that the existing Forestry Act (NI) will be amended to allow the Department to regulate the felling of trees and the composition of regenerating woodland, in order to safeguard the area under forest use.
Once drafted, there will be a formal 13 week consultation period when interested parties will be given the opportunity to comment on the changes being proposed.
Fallen Animals
Mr William Irwin asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to extend the subsidy for the collection and disposal of fallen animals, post November 2008.[R] (AQW 568/07)
Ms Gildernew:My officials, in conjunction with their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales, are currently considering the National Fallen Stock Company’s Business Plan, including their request for continued public funding beyond November 2008.
When all these options and proposals have been considered fully, I will be in a position to make the appropriate decisions.
Agri-Food Sector
Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what advances have been made in the promotion of the agri-food sector in her recent meetings with the European Union Agriculture Commissioner, and the United States Secretary of State for Agriculture. (AQO 53/07)
Ms Gildernew: I met the EU Agriculture Commissioner at the Open Forum arranged by UFU. This was the first meeting that I have had with Commissioner Boel and took place before I took up office. It was a useful meeting which gave me the opportunity to discuss some of the issues where the EU has a direct impact on the agri-food sector and the Commissioner was receptive to having further discussion on these important issues.
I am also pleased to have had an early opportunity of meeting Mike Johanns, US Secretary of Agriculture, to promote our local industry and secure his support in developing food and drink business and trade links with the USA.
This, along with my other business and Government meetings in Washington DC, succeeded in establishing relationships at the very highest levels, and in opening doors for local producers and processors. I was greatly encouraged by the warm welcome I received and America’s genuine and wholehearted desire to help.
Initiating these links in the US is vital first step. And in the coming weeks I will be working with industry to identify potential market opportunities and build on the connections established to promote trade and rural tourism
Voluntary Modulation
Mrs Michelle O'Neill asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what aspects of the rural development programme may benefit from any monies raised through voluntary modulation. (AQO 51/07)
Ms Gildernew: I refer my colleague to the statement that I made on Voluntary modulation to the Assembly earlier today.
The EU regulations governing the use of voluntary modulation require any monies raised through voluntary modulation to be allocated across the rural development programme rather than being concentrated on any particular sector or activity.
Given that the majority of funding in the new rural development programme will be required to support the improvement of the environment and the countryside, I expect that the lion’s share of monies raised through voluntary modulation will go to that part of the programme. However, voluntary modulation monies will also be used to support the other two main elements of the programme – improving the competitiveness of the agricultural and forestry sectors and improving the quality of life in rural areas and diversification of the rural economy.
All-Island Animal Health Strategy
Mr Francie Molloy asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what work has been progressed on an all-island animal health strategy. (AQO 50/07)
Ms Gildernew: Even though the machinery of the North South Ministerial Council was suspended in 2002, officials have continued to co-operate closely on animal health and welfare issues through a number of North/South working groups. A structured approach to the development of animal health and welfare policy across the island is therefore in place.
There have been a number of positive outcomes as a result of this co-operation, the most significant achievements of which include the development of a largely similar system of sheep identification, broad alignment of border control policies aimed at preventing the introduction of animal disease and on-going co-operation on contingency planning for exotic disease outbreaks, such as Avian Influenza and Equine Infectious Anaemia.
In addition, there continues to be co-operation on testing regimes for TB and Brucellosis in border areas and joint enforcement operations including the seizure of illegal medicines and hormonal substances.
Development of the All-Island Animal Health and Welfare Strategy, including the free movement of animals within the island of Ireland, are amongst my key priorities.
Whilst I welcome the ongoing North South co-operation by officials, my aim is to progress the development of the All-Island Animal Health and Welfare Strategy in order to provide an agreed framework for the further development of policy in this area.
To this end, I aim to meet my Southern counterpart in the near future to discuss how we can move quickly to develop the Strategy and to raise the possibility of organising an all-island consultative forum to take the Strategy forward.
Single Farm Payment
Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many farm inspections took place relative to the (a) 2005 Single Farm Payment Scheme; (b) 2006 Single Farm Payment Scheme; and (c) the estimated number of farm inspections to take place relative to the 2007 Single Farm Payment Scheme.[R] (AQO 21/07)
Ms Gildernew: In 2005, my Department carried out 2,106 eligibility inspections. Of these 422 cases were also inspected for Cross-Compliance purposes. A further 55 Cross-Compliance inspections were carried out by the Environment and Heritage Service.
In 2006, my Department carried out 2,115 eligibility inspections. Of these 484 were also inspected for Cross-Compliance. In addition, 401 Cross-Compliance related inspections were carried out by the Environment and Heritage Service and the Safety Executive inspected 410 farm businesses, also for Cross-Compliance purposes.
To establish the level of farm inspections required for 2007 we have to analyse the outcomes of the 2006 inspections. While the results of the 2006 inspection are not yet finalised, indications are that a high level of error was found in the outcomes of the eligibility inspections. As a result, in line with Commission rules, the numbers of eligibility inspections in 2007 will need to increase.
The worst case scenario is that eligibility inspections increase from 5% to 7.5%. If this is the case we are likely to have to undertake approximately 2,925 eligibility inspections in 2007. The Cross-Compliance rate will remain at 1% for each Competent Control Authority.
Rural White Paper
Mr John Dallat asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to indicate a timescale for bringing forward a Rural White Paper. (AQO 47/07)
Ms Gildernew: The Member will appreciate that production of a Rural White Paper would be a large and complex task involving input and commitment from many different Departments.
As a first step I have been pressing for the development of a Rural White Paper to be included in the forthcoming Programme for Government.
If agreement can be reached to include a Rural White Paper in the Programme for Government, it would be my view that a significant amount of work would then need to be carried out in scoping the issues, consulting with other Departments and stakeholders, and prioritising the areas where Government needs to take action.
Whilst I am fully committed to the development of a Rural White Paper, I am realistic enough to know that to develop one will take some time. I would, however, hope to see some progress by the end of this year.
CULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE
Foras na Gaeilge
Mr Francis Brolly asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to investigate the impediments to Foras an Gaeilge, the cross-border language body, providing capital expenditure funding assistance to Irish language groups in the community. (AQW 145/07)
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr Poots):Foras na Gaeilge and the Ulster-Scots Agency which comprise the North/South Language Body receive their funding from the Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and the Department of Culture Arts and Leisure. Neither Agency has delegated authority to administer capital expenditure grants programme.
Tourist Potential of 12 July Celebrations
Mr Ken Robinson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what steps he will take to further enhance the tourist potential surrounding the 12th July celebrations; and how he will engage with his counterpart in the Republic of Ireland to co-ordinate a more positive interpretation of both historical events and modern celebrations and commemorations. (AQW 153/07)
Mr Poots: The Community Festivals Fund (CFF), which is administered on behalf of the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure by the Northern Ireland Events Company, has made awards totalling £19,400 to 4 applicants from different areas of Northern Ireland who are organising events based around the 12th July celebrations in 2007.
In addition, the Department for Social Development is providing funding of £104,200, for the period 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2009, to the County Grand Orange Lodge of Belfast for the employment of a Development Officer for the Belfast Parade.
Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) and Tourism Ireland (TIL) continue to build positive working relationships with representatives of the Orange Order through regular meetings, and senior representatives from both organisations have attended the 12th July celebrations in recent years.
As part of these meetings NITB and the Orange Order have been discussing the development of the ‘Orange Fest’ concept with a view to developing the festival / carnival aspect of the 12th July celebrations. It is anticipated that this has the potential to result in more visitor friendly events that have the potential to appeal to both local and international visitors and to help address the negative perceptions that continue to surround this time of year in many key markets.
NITB is also currently undertaking research in the Republic of Ireland on the perception of Northern Ireland in that market and any barriers to visit that might exist. When this is complete, relevant information will be shared with the Orange Order.
NITB provides information on key 12th July events on its website with signposting to the relevant websites for visitors who want to find out more. NITB is also about to launch a new Cultural Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland. This strategy outlines the NITB approach to working with the Orange Order and the 12th July celebrations under their key "Living Culture" theme.
I will liaise with Minister Dodds, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, to consider how best to engage with our counterparts in the Republic of Ireland on this matter.
Foras na Gaeilge
Mr Nelson McCausland asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if Foras na Gaeilge will be required to provide an English language version of the minutes of its board meetings on its website. (AQW 232/07)
Mr Poots:I shall reply to Mr Nelson McCausland as soon as possible.
Re-stocking of the Dibney River
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will consider assisting the local fishing initiative to restock the Dibney River. (AQW 324/07)
Mr Poots:It is essential in a river such as the Dibney to carry out reinstatement works prior to restocking as the necessary habitat needs to be in place to support either wild or restocked fish. The Department is already assisting the local fishing initiative through the provision of advice on reinstatement and fishery enhancement measures.
Funding for Restocking the Dibney River
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what discussions he has had with other organisations in order to source funding for the Dibney River, in relation to restocking and working with the community. (AQW 325/07)
Mr Poots: The Department has had no discussions with other organisations to source funding for restocking the Dibney River. Officials would assist any local communities interested in reinstating rivers to identify funding opportunities. However it would be the responsibility of the local community organisation to hold discussions with any funding provider. Department officials are already providing the local community with advice on fishery habitat enhancement measures in the River which would lead to improved wild fish stocks
Training for 2012 Olympic Games
Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail progress made in promoting Northern Ireland as a venue for Olympic team training camps prior to the 2012 Olympic Games. (AQW 333/07)
Mr Poots:A sum of approximately £50 million has been included in the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland for the provision of Olympic Standard facilities. A competition for selection of venues is currently underway. Forty one applications, from venue operators and proposed venues in Northern Ireland, were submitted for inclusion in the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG) guide, for pre-games training camps, these are currently being assessed by LOCOG.
In addition, representation from the Northern Ireland Events Company and SportNI, attended Sport Accord in Beijing this year to promote Northern Ireland in attracting world class competitions.
Funding for Olympic Games 2012
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what funding has been allocated to Northern Ireland for the London Olympic Games 2012. (AQW 354/07)
Mr Poots:DCAL received exchequer funding of £200,000 for 2006/07 and £300,000 for 2007/08 for 2012 Games related business.
Improvements to Shooting Grounds
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if Comber Shooting Club, in conjunction with Hollow Farm Shooting Club, has applied for funding to improve its ground prior to the London Olympic Games 2012. (AQW 355/07)
Mr Poots:Sport NI (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. I can confirm that Comber Shooting Club, in conjunction with Hollow Farm Shooting Club, has applied for funding to improve its ground through the Elite Facilities Competition for Northern Ireland’s Olympic/Paralympic Sports.
Funding for Shooting Clubs
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will provide details of shooting clubs that have applied for financial assistance to improve their shooting grounds prior to the London Olympic Games 2012. (AQW 356/07)
Mr Poots:Sport NI (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. I can advise the following shooting clubs have applied for funding through the Elite Facilities Competition for Northern Ireland’s Olympic/Paralympic Sports:
Comber Rifle Club in partnership with Hollow Farm Shooting Grounds
Dungannon Rifle and Pistol Club
Promoting Target Sports
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what involvement his department has had with the government-backed initiative to promote target sports. (AQW 358/07)
Mr Poots:Sport NI (SNI) is responsible for the development of Sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. With the awarding of the Olympic and Paralympic Games to London in 2012, Government, through the Elite Facilities Programme, is providing additional funding for the development of sports facilities across the UK. This programme proposes to invest up to approximately £53 million across a range of sports infrastructure projects in Northern Ireland through a series of competitions. As part of this process, a number of target sports have applied to SNI for investments which are currently being assessed.
Decisions on funding under this programme will be a matter for SNI
Interdepartmental Charter Implementation Group
Mr Nelson McCausland asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many times the Interdepartmental Charter Implementation Group has met, the dates of those meetings and the dates of any meetings of sub-committees or working groups. (AQW 370/07)
Mr Poots: Since its formation there have been 16 meetings of the Interdepartmental Charter Implementation Group. The dates of these meetings are listed below:
1st |
8 February 2001 |
9th |
1 October 2004 |
2nd |
21 March 2001 |
10th |
14 December 2004 |
3rd |
24 September 2001 |
11th |
21 March 2005 |
4th |
13 December 2001 |
12th |
19 May 2005 |
5th |
22 January 2003 |
13th |
28 September 2005 |
6th |
5 March 2003 |
14th |
18 January 2006 |
7th |
30 September 2003 |
15th |
10 November 2006 |
8th |
1 March 2004 |
16th |
27 April 2007 |
There have been three Sub-Groups which have met – Training, Translation Service and Article 9.
TheTraining Sub-Group met on two occasions: 19 May 2004 and 28 September 2004. The Translation Service Sub-Group had three meetings: 18 May 2001, 10 September 2001 and 13 September 2002. Article 9 Sub-Group (Use of Irish in the Courts) met on three occasions: 16 August 2005, 7 September 2005 and 9 January 2006.
Irish Language Act
Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will give an update on work done by his department on an Irish Language Act. (AQW 372/07)
Mr Poots:Consultation on draft clauses for Irish language legislation closed on 5th June 2007. In the region of 11,000 responses were received. My officials are currently analysing these responses.
New Library in Newtownards
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if a site has been agreed for a new library for Newtownards; and if he will give a timescale for the construction of the library. (AQW 383/07)
Mr Poots: The South Eastern Education and Library Board is currently revising an Economic Appraisal to build a replacement library on the site of the old Castle Gardens Primary School. The Board anticipates that the Appraisal should be submitted to the Department by the end of June 2007 and subject to consideration and approval by my Department and the Department of Finance and Personnel, it will take a minimum of 12 to15 months before construction could commence on site. This is to allow for detailed design work and for the planning application and approval process.
2012 Olympic Games
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what discussions he has had with United Kingdom sports bodies in relation to the London Olympic Games 2012. (AQW 384/07)
Mr Poots:I have recently met with the Chair of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG), Tessa Jowell, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and discussed 2012 Games related business. Officials in my Department and in Sport NI are engaged in ongoing discussions with their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales, regarding Olympic & Paralympic Games issues.
New Library in Newtownards
Mr Simon Hamilton asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will give an update on what progress is being made on the provision of a new library for Newtownards. (AQW 395/07)
Mr Poots: The South Eastern Education and Library Board is currently revising an Economic Appraisal to build a replacement library on the site of the old Castle Gardens Primary School. The Board anticipates that the Appraisal should be submitted to the Department by the end of June 2007 and subject to consideration and approval by my Department and the Department of Finance and Personnel, it will take a minimum of 12 to15 months before construction could commence on site. This is to allow for detailed design work and for the planning application and approval process.
Provision of Public Libraries
Mr Roy Beggs asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what resources have been earmarked to promote usage of public libraries; and if he is planning any further closures of libraries in the near future. (AQW 463/07)
Mr Poots:The provision of the public library service, including the promotion of libraries and any decision on the closure of libraries, is the responsibility of the Education and Library Boards. My Department requires the Education and Library Boards to promote libraries and manage the library estate from within their allocated resources.
Consultation on the Irish Language Act
Mr Barry McElduff asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to assess the number of respondents who encountered difficulty in making email submissions in response to the consultation on the Irish Language Act on, or before, Tuesday 5 June 2007. (AQW 476/07)
Mr Poots:All efforts were made by my officials to ensure that interested bodies and individuals had every opportunity to respond to the recent consultation. This included publication of office address, phone number, fax number, an email address, and a link to an email address from DCAL’s website.
Arts Funding
Ms Anna Lo asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to make a statement on the level of arts funding per capita in Northern Ireland. (AQO 13/07)
Mr Poots: I recognise that funding for the arts in Northern Ireland lags behind the rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland. This deficit has accumulated over many years.
I will be considering funding for the arts along with other priorities as I negotiate the Department’s budget for the period 2008/09 to 2010/11 in the Comprehensive Spending Review.
PR Consultancy Expenditure
Mr Thomas Burns asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much money has been spent by his department in the last five years on (a) public relations, and (b) other consultancy services. (AQO 39/07)
Mr Poots: In the last five financial years from 2002/03, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure has incurred no expenditure on public relations consultancy. Expenditure on other consultancy services for the same period is as follows:
2002/03 - £1,156,659
2003/04 - £647,159
2004/05- £423,113
2005/06 - £328,847
2006/07 - £1,295,309
Ulster-Scots and Irish Language Funding
Mr Gregory Campbell asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what measures are being considered to ensure that the Ulster-Scots cultural outlook is offered resources similar to those being offered to the Irish language. (AQO 8/07)
Mr Poots: The funding provided to the Ulster Scots Agency and Foras na Gaeilge, the Irish Language Agency, reflects their differing ranges of projects, programmes and supported organisations and is determined on the basis of the approved actions in their respective annual business plans.
Arts and the Tourist Industry
Mr Pat Ramsey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline whether his department has made an assessment of the impact on the tourist industry of expenditure by his department on the arts. (AQO 54/07)
Mr Poots: While no formal assessment has been made by my department, it is clear that the arts make a significant contribution to economic development and tourism. For example, it is estimated that major arts and cultural events supported by the Northern Ireland Events Company in 2005 supported 25,000 bed nights. 5,200 ticket sales for the Belfast Festival at Queens were to people with addresses outside Northern Ireland.
Northere Ireland Theatre Initiative
Mr David Ford asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to make a statement on the potential for a Northern Ireland theatre initiative, in line with those already operating in Scotland and Wales. (AQO 18/07)
Mr Poots: I am not yet convinced that there is a case for a publicly funded national theatre for Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is already well served with a good mix of theatre companies. In 2007/08 the Arts Council provides core funding to 7 theatre companies and lottery funding to a further 5 companies. Many of them produce original works and perform in a range of venues. The Arts Council is currently developing a drama strategy for Northern Ireland which will identify the key needs of the sector.
Arts Funding
Mr Trevor Lunn asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what plans he has to reallocate resources towards bringing per capita arts funding into line with Scotland and the Republic of Ireland. (AQO 14/07)
Mr Poots: I recognise that funding for the arts in Northern Ireland lags behind the rest of the UK and the Republic of Ireland. This deficit has accumulated over many years.
I will be considering funding for the arts along with other priorities as I negotiate the Department’s budget for the period 2008/09 to 2010/11 in the Comprehensive Spending Review.
EDUCATION
Irish Language Qualifying Examination
Mr Dominic Bradley asked the Minister of Education what plans she has for initial and in service training of teachers from Northern Ireland in the Irish Language Qualifying Examination, to facilitate teachers from Northern Ireland who wish to teach in the Republic of Ireland. (AQW 132/07)
The Minister of Education (Ms Ruane):Teachers from here who wish to teach in the primary sector in the South of Ireland, but who do not hold the requisite Irish language qualification (An Scrudú le hAghaidh Cáilíochta sa Ghaeilge), are granted provisional recognition as a teacher by the Department of Education and Science and are allowed 5 years to acquire the qualification.
In the case of post-primary schools, the Irish language requirement only applies to teachers employed in Gaeltacht schools, in Irish-medium schools, and to teachers who teach any subject through the medium of Irish.
The Higher Education Institutions in the North provide training which will subsequently enable teachers to teach the curriculum here. However, there are many competing demands for the inclusion of training on specific topics in Initial Teacher Education courses, and the time available for training students is limited.
As such, my Department has no plans at the moment to introduce an Irish language qualifying examination into initial or in-service training courses. I am asking the review to investigate the demand and interest in these courses.
Male Non-Teaching Staff
Mr Mark Durkan asked the Minister of Education what percentage of non-teaching staff in (a) primary; and (b) secondary schools are male, broken down by Education and Library Board area. (AQW 212/07)
Ms Ruane: The percentage of male non-teaching staff by Board area is as follows:
BELB |
NEELB |
SEELB |
SELB |
WELB |
|
Primary |
6% |
10% |
6% |
6% |
10% |
Secondary |
24% |
30% |
23% |
24% |
23% |
This information has been provided by the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) who are the employing authorities for non-teaching staff in the controlled and maintained sectors. It does not include non-teaching staff employed by the Boards of Governors of Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools.
Movilla High School, Newtownards
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Education to explain the rationale associated with the intention to reduce, by eleven, technician and support staff for the forthcoming financial year in Movilla High School, Newtownards. (AQW 273/07)
Ms Ruane: Matters relating to the employment of non-teaching staff in Movilla High School are the responsibility of the employer (the Board of Governors) and the employing authority (the South Eastern Education and Library Board, SEELB). I have been advised by the Chief Executive of the SEELB that it is not the Board of Governors’ intention to reduce, by eleven, technician and support staff for the forthcoming financial year. However, due to a significant decline in pupil numbers, the Governors have found it necessary to propose reduced hours for some administrative and technical staff.
Donaghadee High School
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Education to explain in full the rationale and evidence considered for the proposed closure of Donaghadee High School. (AQW 277/07)
Ms Ruane:Following its strategic review of provision in the North East Ards area last year the South Eastern Education and Library Board has commenced preliminary consultations with Donaghadee High School and Movilla High School in relation to a potential rationalisation between the two schools. A formal consultation by the Board is expected to commence during the forthcoming autumn term. Any proposals the Board brings forward for the rationalisation of post-primary provision in the area will require the publication of a statutory development proposal.
Crossroads Primary School, Kilrea
Mr John Dallat asked the Minister of Education to detail her plans for the replacement of Crossroads Primary School, Kilrea, with a new build. (AQW 281/07)
Ms Ruane: A Feasibility Study that identified the options to be considered in an Economic Appraisal, to meet the accommodation needs of Crossroads Primary School, was returned to the Catholic Council for Maintained Schools (CCMS) in September 2006.
It was one of a number of feasibility studies that CCMS have been asked to review to ensure consistency with an area based approach to school planning and within the context of the recommendations of the Bain Report.
CCMS response in this respect is awaited.
School Funding for Sport
Mr Robin Newton asked the Minister of Education to confirm the funding provided to primary and secondary level schools for sport/games over the past five years. (AQW 290/07)
Ms Ruane: Figures provided by the relevant Funding Authorities, for identifiable recurrent funding made available to primary and secondary schools for sports/games in the past five years, are shown on the table below.
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
|
£000's |
£000's |
£000's |
£000's |
£000's |
|
Primary |
291 |
359 |
683 |
1,655 |
1,499 |
Secondary |
1,630 |
1,952 |
1,956 |
3,361 |
3,408 |
Total |
1,921 |
2,311 |
2,639 |
5,016 |
4,907 |
Notes: With the introduction of Common Funding in 2005/06, all primary and secondary schools receive funding under a common formula Sports Factor, to assist in meeting the statutory physical education curriculum. Figures include other recurrent funding such as Big Lottery, European funding and Sports & Youth Council grants to schools, but exclude capital, curriculum and advisory support services and training.
Priory College, Holywood
Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of Education if she will give a timescale for the approval for a new build for Priory College in Holywood; and for the hold position to be rescinded. (AQW 294/07)
Ms Ruane: Following a review of previously announced capital schemes in planning conducted earlier this year, the project for Priory College, Holywood was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The main issue for consideration is the projected enrolment trends for the area and the potential implications for the scheme. The Department expects to be able to provide confirmation of the position shortly.
Priory College, Holywood
Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of Education when building work will commence on the new build for Priory College in Holywood. (AQW 295/07)
Ms Ruane: Following a review of previously announced capital schemes in planning conducted earlier this year, the project for Priory College, Holywood was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The main issue for consideration is the projected enrolment trends for the area and the potential implications for the scheme. The Department expects to be able to provide confirmation of the position shortly.
Amalgamation of Holywood and Redburn Primary Schools
Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of Education if she will give a timescale for building work to commence on the new build for Holywood and Redburn Primary Schools, on the existing Priory College site. (AQW 296/07)
Ms Ruane:A scheme to amalgamate Holywood and Redburn Primary Schools on a new site received New Starts approval in March 2006. The scheme includes Holywood Nursery school. The need for this project was confirmed by my predecessor following a recent review of capital schemes.
The scheme is at initial planning stage only and it is not possible at this time to provide a definitive indication of when this project will be able to commence on site. The use of the site at Priory College for the amalgamated school is tied to the development of a scheme for the College which was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The Department expects to be able to provide confirmation of the position shortly.
Priory College, Holywood
Dr Stephen Farry asked the Minister of Education when a decision will be made on the approval of the capital project, regarding the location of Priory Integrated College at the Redburn site in Holywood. (AQW 300/07)
Ms Ruane:Following a review of previously announced capital schemes still in planning, the capital project for Priory College, Holywood was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The main issue for consideration is the projected enrolment trends for the area and the potential implications for the scheme. The Department expects to be able to provide confirmation of the position shortly.
The school’s Board of Governors has provided the Department with information relating to current and proposed collaborations and partnerships. They are currently working with Sullivan Upper School for some AS/GCE and AS courses. They are involved in the North Down/Ards Learning Partnership which comprises Priory Integrated College, Strangford Integrated College, Glastry College and St Columbanus’ College, Bangor for GNVQ Level 2 qualifications. Operating as the Partnership, they are also working with the North Down and Ards Institute for the delivery of Occupational Studies qualifications.
Priory College, Holywood
Dr Stephen Farry asked the Minister of Education what criteria will be used in making the decision to approve the capital project regarding the location of Priory Integrated College at the Redburn site in Holywood. (AQW 301/07)
Ms Ruane:Following a review of previously announced capital schemes still in planning, the capital project for Priory College, Holywood was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The main issue for consideration is the projected enrolment trends for the area and the potential implications for the scheme. The Department expects to be able to provide confirmation of the position shortly.
The school’s Board of Governors has provided the Department with information relating to current and proposed collaborations and partnerships. They are currently working with Sullivan Upper School for some AS/GCE and AS courses. They are involved in the North Down/Ards Learning Partnership which comprises Priory Integrated College, Strangford Integrated College, Glastry College and St Columbanus’ College, Bangor for GNVQ Level 2 qualifications. Operating as the Partnership, they are also working with the North Down and Ards Institute for the delivery of Occupational Studies qualifications.
Priory College, Holywood
Dr Stephen Farry asked the Minister of Education what information has been received by her department to confirm that Priory Integrated College is meeting the criteria for cross-sectoral collaboration, as set out in Professor Sir George Bain's Report of the Independent Strategic Review of Education. (AQW 302/07)
Ms Ruane: Following a review of previously announced capital schemes still in planning, the capital project for Priory College, Holywood was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The main issue for consideration is the projected enrolment trends for the area and the potential implications for the scheme. The Department expects to be able to provide confirmation of the position shortly.
The school’s Board of Governors has provided the Department with information relating to current and proposed collaborations and partnerships. They are currently working with Sullivan Upper School for some AS/GCE and AS courses. They are involved in the North Down/Ards Learning Partnership which comprises Priory Integrated College, Strangford Integrated College, Glastry College and St Columbanus’ College, Bangor for GNVQ Level 2 qualifications. Operating as the Partnership, they are also working with the North Down and Ards Institute for the delivery of Occupational Studies qualifications.
Post - Primary Integrated Education
Dr Stephen Farry asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to address the growing demand for integrated education at post-primary level in the North Down, east Belfast and Ards areas. (AQW 303/07)
Ms Ruane: The Department has a statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education and also to have regard to the general principle that, so far as is compatible with the provision of efficient instruction and training and the avoidance of unreasonable public expenditure, pupils shall be educated in accordance with the wishes of their parents. Proposals to increase places at integrated schools either through expansion of intakes at existing schools, or the establishment of new schools, are the subject of a statutory development proposal consultation process. Each such proposal is considered on its individual merits.
Enrolment at Priory College
Dr Stephen Farry asked the Minister of Education to outline the rationale for maintaining a cap of 450 pupils on the enrolment level of Priory Integrated College, given the strong demand for post-primary integrated education within its potential catchment area. (AQW 304/07)
Ms Ruane: The 450 approved enrolment at Priory Integrated College is based on a projected long-term enrolment which was agreed between the Department of Education and the South Eastern Education and Library Board. It takes account of historic intakes and the numbers in the lower age-groups at the main primary schools which provide pupils to the College. At October 2006 the school had an enrolment of 421 pupils
Schools Selection System
Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of Education what priority she will give to public opinion when preparing proposals for a replacement for the schools selection system. (AQW 338/07)
Ms Ruane: I am listening to the views of a wide range of individuals on the issue of the new arrangements for transfer from primary to post-primary education. When I complete this process I will prepare and publish draft regulations for consultation
Academic Selection
Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of Education if she has established a capped figure for expenditure on consultations, to determine a way forward on academic selection. (AQW 339/07)
Ms Ruane:When new arrangements for transfer from primary to post-primary education are agreed, draft regulations will be prepared and published for consultation. No upper limit has been set for expenditure on this, or any other form of consultation associated with this important issue, but any consultation that is carried out will be done so with due regard to the most cost effective use of public money.
Rainey Endowed School
Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Education if the rules of procurement bind Rainey Endowed School in Magherafelt into the Public Private Partnership process. (AQW 344/07)
Ms Ruane:Rainey Endowed School was assessed for initial designation as part of a Public Private Partnership scheme. An Outline Business Case (OBC) has been undertaken for this project which will confirm the appropriate procurement route based on a value for money assessment. Once the outcome of the OBC has been established and the procurement route determined, planning of the scheme will proceed in conjunction with the school to contract sign. I assure you that my Department will continue to work with the school to progress this project without delay.
Rainey Endowed School
Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Education if she will consider progressing the rebuilding of Rainey Endowed School through Design and Build, rather than through a Public Private Partnership. (AQW 345/07)
Ms Ruane: Rainey Endowed School was assessed for initial designation as part of a Public Private Partnership scheme. An Outline Business Case (OBC) has been undertaken for this project which will confirm the appropriate procurement route based on a value for money assessment. Once the outcome of the OBC has been established and the procurement route determined, planning of the scheme will proceed in conjunction with the school to contract sign. I assure you that my Department will continue to work with the school to progress this project without delay.
Rainey Endowed School
Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Education if she will explain why Rainey Endowed School is still waiting for work to commence on its planned rebuild through Public Private Partnership, in light of the fact that progress is being made on other schools, not in Public Private Partnerships, that submitted bids after Rainey Endowed; and if she will give an assurance that work will progress without further delay. (AQW 346/07)
Ms Ruane: Rainey Endowed School was assessed for initial designation as part of a Public Private Partnership scheme. An Outline Business Case (OBC) has been undertaken for this project which will confirm the appropriate procurement route based on a value for money assessment. Once the outcome of the OBC has been established and the procurement route determined, planning of the scheme will proceed in conjunction with the school to contract sign. I assure you that my Department will continue to work with the school to progress this project without delay.
Ulster-Scots
Mr Nelson McCausland asked the Minister of Education how much money her department has spent in relation to Ulster-Scots, in each year since the Council of Europe Charter for Regional or Minority Languages came into force in the United Kingdom. (AQW 360/07)
Ms Ruane: I list below expenditure in relation to Ulster-Scots since July 2001.
Financial Year |
Expenditure |
2001/2002 |
£00.00 |
2002/2003 |
£00.00 |
2003/2004 |
£69.95 |
2004/2005 |
£00.00 |
2005/2006 |
£49,000.00 |
2006/2007 |
£00.00 |
Nursery and Pre-school Education
Mr Thomas Burns asked the Minister of Education what is the current position in regard to the criteria-based selection system for nursery and pre-school places. (AQW 362/07)
Ms Ruane:The aim of the Pre-School Education Expansion Programme (PSEEP) is to provide one year of high quality funded pre-school education, in the year immediately before compulsory education, for every child whose parents wish it.
In determining the admissions criteria the Department of Education specifies some priorities i.e.
Social disadvantage – because research has shown that those children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds tend to experience more difficulty at school than other children; and
4 year olds with July and August birthdays – because these children do not enter compulsory education until after their 5th birthday.
Pre-school settings must then set their own criteria to select children down to the last available place when too many children apply to a provider. These include a range of factors such as proximity to the school or the previous attendance of siblings and are at the discretion of the individual school/playgroup
Nursery Unit at St Comgalls Primary School
Mr Thomas Burns asked the Minister of Education what progress has been made in relation to the request for a full nursery unit at St. Comgall's Primary School, Antrim. (AQW 364/07)
Ms Ruane: The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) are currently undertaking a consultation exercise for a nursery unit at St Comgall’s Primary School and a development proposal is expected to be published once this is completed. The development proposal will be subject to a two-month statutory public consultation period.
Representations about for Ulster-Scots
Mr Nelson McCausland asked the Minister of Education what representations have been made to her department about the Ulster-Scots language and Ulster-Scots culture in each calendar year since 1997. (AQW 368/07)
Ms Ruane: My Department does not keep detailed records of correspondence received and I am therefore unable to provide you with the information requested.
However, I can advise you that one representation was made to the Minister for Education in January 2001 regarding the lack of educational resources available for the teaching of the Ulster-Scots language.
Donaghadee High School
Mr Alex Easton asked the Minister of Education to detail what plans she has for the long-term future of Donaghadee High School. (AQW 371/07)
Ms Ruane:The South Eastern Education and Library Board has advised that following a strategic review of provision in the North East Ards area last year it has commenced preliminary consultations with Donaghadee High School and Movilla High School in relation to a potential rationalisation between the two schools. A formal consultation by the Board is expected to commence during the forthcoming autumn term. Any proposal the Board brings forward for the rationalisation of post-primary provision in the area will require the publication of a statutory development proposal which will be subject to consultation.
Employment Opportunities for Teachers
Mr Alastair Ross asked the Minister of Education what steps are being taken to help recently graduated teachers get jobs in Northern Ireland. (AQW 387/07)
Ms Ruane: The recruitment of teachers is the responsibility of teachers’ employers. However, the Department has issued guidance to employers exhorting them to give preference to newly qualified teachers and experienced non-retired teachers seeking employment. Schools have also been advised that they should recruit to vacancies on a permanent rather than a temporary basis unless the vacancy is clearly of a temporary nature. The capping of the levels of the central reimbursement of the costs of substitute cover also provides an incentive to employ newly qualified teachers as substitutes.
Moreover, following the review of teacher education in the north of Ireland which is being carried out jointly by the Department of Education and the Department for Employment and Learning, both Departments are exploring ways by which newly qualified teachers can have greater stability in employment during their early years of teaching.
English as an Additional Language
Mr Dominic Bradley asked the Minister of Education how many pupils whose first language is not English attend schools in each of the Education and Library Board areas. (AQW 413/07)
Ms Ruane: The number of children who had English as an additional language attending schools in each of the Education and Library Boards in 2006/07 was as follows:
Education and Library Board |
Total |
Belfast |
796 |
Western |
455 |
North Eastern |
582 |
South Eastern |
526 |
Southern |
1,552 |
North of Ireland |
3,911 |
Note:
Figures relate to nursery schools, primary schools, preparatory departments of grammar schools, post primary schools and special schools.
Ballywalter Primary School
Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Education what discussion she has had with the landowner of the site for the new build for Ballywalter Primary School. (AQW 421/07)
Ms Ruane:The South Eastern Education and Library Board is responsible for negotiating the site purchase for the proposed new school for Ballywalter Primary School. I understand the Board had initial discussions with the local landowner.
Assaults on Teachers
Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each of the last five years, the number of cases of assault against teaching staff recorded by her department, broken down by Education and Library Board. (AQW 497/07)
Ms Ruane: The Department does not collect the information requested. Cases of assault against teaching staff may be reported to the PSNI by the school or the teacher.
The Department holds information about the number of pupils expelled and the number of incidences of suspension as a result of a physical attack on any member of staff.
Children Excluded from School
Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of Education how many children have been excluded from schools in each of the last five years, broken down by Education and Library Board. (AQW 498/07)
Ms Ruane: The information requested is shown in the following tables:
(a) The number of pupils suspended in each Education and Library Board.
School Year |
BELB |
WELB |
NEELB |
SEELB |
SELB |
Total |
2000/01 |
1,066 |
919 |
1,189 |
803 |
763 |
4,740 |
2001/02 |
1,229 |
882 |
1,107 |
919 |
914 |
5,051 |
2002/03 |
1,014 |
906 |
1,201 |
992 |
1,169 |
5,282 |
2003/04 |
1,191 |
936 |
1,286 |
987 |
1,084 |
5,484 |
2004/05 |
1,100 |
975 |
1,333 |
960 |
1,046 |
5,414 |
(b) The number of pupils expelled in each Education and Library Board.
School Year |
BELB |
WELB |
NEELB |
SEELB |
SELB |
Total |
2000/01 |
5 |
19 |
29 |
11 |
16 |
80 |
2001/02 |
7 |
16 |
18 |
12 |
23 |
76 |
2002/03 |
18 |
12 |
17 |
16 |
7 |
70 |
2003/04 |
6 |
12 |
15 |
12 |
26 |
71 |
2004/05 |
7 |
11 |
26 |
9 |
10 |
63 |
The suspension and expulsions statistics for 2005/06 school year are currently being analysed and will be placed on the DE website when this has been completed.
Attendance at Irish Medium Schools
Mr Francis Brolly asked the Minister of Education to investigate the comparison in numbers of children attending (a) naiscoileanna, (b) bunscoileanna, and (c) meanscoileanna, from 1997-2007. (AQW 503/07)
Ms Ruane: The total number of children in each of the sectors over the period 1997/98 to 2006/07 was as follows:
naiscoileanna (voluntary and private pre schools) |
bunscoileanna (primary schools) |
meanscoileanna (post primary schools) |
|
1997/98 |
0 |
1,016 |
231 |
1998/99 |
146 |
1,064 |
268 |
1999/00 |
257 |
1,115 |
308 |
2000/01 |
295 |
1,159 |
332 |
2001/02 |
362 |
1,421 |
342 |
2002/03 |
345 |
1,608 |
364 |
2003/04 |
334 |
1,763 |
406 |
2004/05 |
397 |
1,888 |
442 |
2005/06 |
407 |
1,944 |
470 |
2006/07 |
448 |
2,041 |
489 |
Physical Assaults on Teaching Staff
Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each of the last five years, the number of pupils excluded from schools for carrying out physical assaults against teaching staff, broken down by Education and Library Board. (AQW 504/07)
Ms Ruane:The Department does not collect the information requested.
However, from the 2002/03 school year, statistics on the reasons for suspension have been gathered annually from each education and library board and relate to the number of individual suspensions, not to the number of pupils suspended. The information shows the incidences of suspension for physical attacks on staff, which would include teaching and non-teaching.
Table 1 details the number of suspensions1 for physical attacks on staff in the 2002/03 - 2004/05 school years:
TABLE 1
Physical attacks on staff
Education and Library Board |
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
Belfast |
75 |
73 |
84 |
Western |
99 |
72 |
51 |
North Eastern |
91 |
49 |
57 |
South Eastern |
64 |
79 |
21 |
Southern |
36 |
47 |
49 |
NI Total |
365 |
320 |
262 |
Note:1The count of occasions is based on each incidence of suspension, where an incident is defined as a count from the first day a pupil was suspended until the last day suspended. Prior to 2004/05, the count of occasions was based on each record of suspension identified by the education and library boards, and in some instances longer periods of suspension may have had more than one record. This change is due to an improvement in the data collection systems for suspensions in the education and library boards, which has enabled better analysis of the data. As a result, the number of occasions pupils were suspended in 2004/05 has decreased from previous years. However, care should be taken when comparing the number of occasions in 2004/05 with the number of occasions in previous years.Reasons for expulsion were first collected in 2003/04.Table 2 below shows the total number of pupils expelled for physical attacks on staff for the 2003/04 and 2004/05 school years:
TABLE 2
Physical attacks on staff
Year |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
No. of expulsions for physical attacks on staff |
7 |
7 |
The suspension and expulsions statistics for 2005/06 school year are currently being analysed and will be placed on the DE website when this has been completed.
EMPLOYMENT AND LEARNING
Funds Allocated for Teacher Training
Mr Alastair Ross asked the Minister for Employment and Learning how much has been spent on teacher training in each of the last five years. (AQW 352/07)
The Minister for Employment and Learning (Sir Reg Empey):
Details of funds allocated for teacher training in Northern Ireland in each of the last five financial years are provided in the Table below.
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
|
£m |
32.409 |
35.129 |
36.150 |
40.929 |
46.626 |
Figures include Initial Teacher Education (ITE) funding provided by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL); Capital Funding provided to St Mary’s and Stranmillis University Colleges and In Service Teacher Training (INSET) funding provided by the Department of Education (DE). Capital funding provided to Queen’s University Belfast and University of Ulster by DEL is not teacher training specific and is therefore not included.
Springvale Educational Project
Mr Paul Butler asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will carry out an investigation in relation to the Northern Ireland Audit Office report on the Springvale Educational Project, and, in particular, its criticisms of his department. (AQW 427/07)
Sir Reg Empey:The Assembly Parliamentary Accounts Committee (PAC) will be holding an evidence session on the Springvale Educational Project (SEP) on 14 June 2007. Following this hearing the PAC will publisha report on its conclusions and recommendations. The Department will be fully analysing the PAC Report and is committed to providing a detailed response on the findings of the hearing within 2 months of receipt of the report.
Undergraduate Enrolments
Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the numbers of full and part time undergraduate students at higher education institutions, broken down by (a) Protestant; (b) Catholic; (c) other; (d) male; (e) female; (f) persons with a disability; and (f) persons without a disability, for each of the last five years. (AQW 478/07)
Sir Reg Empey:
ANSWER
Undergraduate enrolments at Northern Ireland higher education institutions by mode of study, religion, gender and disability 2001/02 – 2005/06
2001/02 |
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
||||||||
Full-time |
Part-time |
Total |
Full-time |
Part-time |
Total |
Full-time |
Part-time |
Total |
||
Religion(1), (2) |
Protestant |
8,529 |
1,446 |
9,975 |
9,670 |
1,873 |
11,543 |
10,102 |
2,136 |
12,238 |
Roman Catholic |
12,190 |
1,868 |
14,058 |
13,648 |
2,197 |
15,845 |
14,092 |
2,623 |
16,715 |
|
Other |
700 |
162 |
862 |
839 |
236 |
1,075 |
989 |
267 |
1,256 |
|
Not known/available |
5,917 |
6,714 |
12,631 |
5,141 |
5,328 |
10,469 |
4,819 |
5,678 |
10,497 |
|
Total |
27,336 |
10,190 |
37,526 |
29,298 |
9,634 |
38,932 |
30,002 |
10,704 |
40,706 |
|
Gender |
Male |
11,145 |
3,269 |
14,414 |
11,818 |
3,007 |
14,825 |
12,103 |
3,378 |
15,481 |
Female |
16,191 |
6,921 |
23,112 |
17,480 |
6,627 |
24,107 |
17,899 |
7,326 |
25,225 |
|
Total |
27,336 |
10,190 |
37,526 |
29,298 |
9,634 |
38,932 |
30,002 |
10,704 |
40,706 |
|
Disability(3) |
Disabled |
1,457 |
278 |
1,735 |
1,563 |
324 |
1,887 |
1,796 |
412 |
2,208 |
Not disabled/known/sought |
25,879 |
9,912 |
35,791 |
27,735 |
9,310 |
37,045 |
28,206 |
10,292 |
38,498 |
|
Total |
27,336 |
10,190 |
37,526 |
29,298 |
9,634 |
38,932 |
30,002 |
10,704 |
40,706 |
|
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
|||||||||
Full-time |
Part-time |
Total |
Full-time |
Part-time |
Total |
|||||
Religion(1), (2) |
Protestant |
10,575 |
2,186 |
12,761 |
11,074 |
2,732 |
13,806 |
|||
Roman Catholic |
14,514 |
2,693 |
17,207 |
15,670 |
3,128 |
18,798 |
||||
Other |
853 |
228 |
1,081 |
753 |
276 |
1,029 |
||||
Not known/available |
5,338 |
6,451 |
11,789 |
4,191 |
5,134 |
9,325 |
||||
Total |
31,280 |
11,558 |
42,838 |
31,688 |
11,270 |
42,958 |
||||
Gender |
Male |
12,486 |
3,793 |
16,279 |
12,868 |
3,676 |
16,544 |
|||
Female |
18,794 |
7,765 |
26,559 |
18,820 |
7,594 |
26,414 |
||||
Total |
31,280 |
11,558 |
42,838 |
31,688 |
11,270 |
42,958 |
||||
Disability(3) |
Disabled |
1,867 |
481 |
2,348 |
2,163 |
590 |
2,753 |
|||
Not disabled/known/sought |
29,413 |
11,077 |
40,490 |
29,525 |
10,680 |
40,205 |
||||
Total |
31,280 |
11,558 |
42,838 |
31,688 |
11,270 |
42,958 |
||||
Source: HESA |
||||||||||
(1) Information on religion is only collected for NI domiciled students studying at NI institutions.
(2) Religious affiliation is not a mandatory question and has a high non-response rate.(3) Information on disability is collected on the basis of a student’s self assessment.
SIR REG EMPEY MLA
Recreational Learning
Mrs Naomi Long asked the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps will be taken to ensure that the funding changes within further education do not deter adult learners from engaging in recreational learning; and to detail how he intends to ensure that lifelong learning continues to be promoted throughout society. (AQW 488/07)
Sir Reg Empey:The new funding model used to distribute the FE Recurrent Grant to colleges does not deter people from engaging in recreational learning. While the Department for Employment and Learning sets the strategic framework for the Further Education sector in Northern Ireland, each college is responsible for its own curriculum offer. Recreational courses will continue to be subsidised by the Department, although this type of provision has always been subject to a lower level of funding. In addition, FE colleges, as incorporated bodies, have their own fees policies. It is for individual colleges to decide which of their recreational courses they charge a fee for, and how they structure their charges for such courses.
As part of the implementation of the "Further Education Means Business" strategy, the Department is developing a new policy for curriculum delivered by colleges. Key elements of the policy will be to ensure that an appropriate balance is achieved between college provision that supports the economy and promotes social cohesion, and that learners are supported as appropriate throughout their lives. The new curriculum policy will be the subject of public consultation and equality impact assessment later this year, prior to its implementation from the 2008/09 academic year onwards.
ENTERPRISE, TRADE AND INVESTMENT
Investment by Invest NI
Mr Simon Hamilton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the total amount of investment made by Invest NI in each of the last five years, broken down by (i) each of the 26 local government districts; and (ii) each of the 18 Northern Ireland constituencies. (AQW 238/07)
The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Mr Dodds): Table 1 presents the amount of assistance offered by Invest NI in each of the last five years by District Council Area. The total planned investment, which represents the total costs of supported projects, is also included.Similar information is presented in Table 2, presented by Parliamentary Constituency Area.
It should be noted that these areas are not self-contained labour markets. A project assisted in a particular location has the potential to create benefits across a much wider area. Northern Ireland is a relatively small place and evidence indicates that many investments draw their workforce from areas beyond constituency and council area boundaries. In addition, Invest NI has limited scope for ‘directing’ investment to specific geographic areas, although it is has been able to influence the location decisions of some inward-investment projects. In the case of established businesses, reinvestment patterns will be determined by the existing location of the business.
Table 1
INVEST NI ASSISTANCE BY DISTRICT COUNCIL AREA FROM 2002/03 TO 2006/07
DCA |
2002/03 |
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
|||||
Assistance (£m) |
Total Investment (£m) |
Assistance (£m) |
Total Investment (£m) |
Assistance (£m) |
Total Investment (£m) |
Assistance (£m) |
Total Investment (£m) |
Assistance (£m) |
Total Investment (£m) |
|
Antrim |
18.8 |
133.2 |
3.0 |
9.4 |
6.0 |
27.4 |
1.2 |
6.4 |
0.6 |
3.0 |
Ards |
1.2 |
6.1 |
2.7 |
9.5 |
0.6 |
2.1 |
2.2 |
10.4 |
1.4 |
13.7 |
Armagh |
5.2 |
19.2 |
1.4 |
4.9 |
1.3 |
5.4 |
0.6 |
4.8 |
3.9 |
20.3 |
Ballymena |
1.8 |
10.5 |
4.6 |
27.7 |
4.7 |
22.9 |
0.7 |
4.3 |
3.5 |
18.1 |
Ballymoney |
0.5 |
2.5 |
0.5 |
3.2 |
1.4 |
3.3 |
0.1 |
0.4 |
0.4 |
1.3 |
Banbridge |
1.9 |
8.3 |
0.4 |
0.9 |
1.5 |
8.4 |
0.5 |
2.3 |
0.3 |
1.0 |
Belfast |
29.3 |
83.6 |
53.1 |
218.6 |
45.3 |
119.2 |
30.3 |
148.1 |
43.2 |
182.6 |
Carrickfergus |
2.2 |
8.2 |
0.3 |
0.9 |
0.7 |
1.4 |
0.6 |
3.3 |
0.2 |
1.6 |
Castlereagh |
1.0 |
2.9 |
1.3 |
4.4 |
5.1 |
17.5 |
0.9 |
4.1 |
0.4 |
2.1 |
Coleraine |
2.4 |
5.3 |
0.6 |
1.5 |
1.7 |
4.2 |
1.0 |
8.6 |
0.7 |
3.9 |
Cookstown |
1.3 |
8.3 |
2.1 |
7.7 |
5.4 |
28.9 |
1.0 |
6.9 |
1.5 |
9.5 |
Craigavon |
16.1 |