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 28 September 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

Equality Provision

Mr David Simpson asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister if it has identified any improvements that could be made to equality provision.

(AQW 192/08)

The First Minister and Deputy First Minister (Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness): The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister aims to develop policies and legislation that will better contribute to promoting equality of opportunity for everyone in Northern Ireland.

The existing framework of equality policy and legislation has been strengthened recently in a number of areas, for example on age and disability.

As you are no doubt aware, the department is also considering proposals for Single Equality legislation. These will of course be brought before the Assembly for their consideration.

Policies to promote equality and social inclusion are currently being developed on a range of issues.

The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland has recently completed a major review of the effectiveness of Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act and has consulted on its findings. We will ensure that there is full consideration of the Review findings and recommendations when the final report is published.

Victims Groups

Mr Allan Bresland asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what funding has been made available for victims groups in West Tyrone in 2005, 2006 and 2007.

(AQW 272/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: Records show that funding detailed in the table below has been allocated to organisations based in West Tyrone involved in providing support for victims between April 1998 and March 2007. A year by year breakdown of these figures is not currently available and could only be provided at disproportionate cost.

In addition to the amounts shown, victims’ groups may also apply for funding from any programme or scheme, such as the District Council Community Relations Programme or European Union funding through the Local Strategy Partnerships, in cases where they can satisfy the relevant eligibility criteria.

Organisation providing support for Victims	Amount Allocated £
Co Tyrone Frontier Relief Society	2,000
Derry and Raphoe Action	347,229
Koram Centre/Strabane Befriending & Counselling Association	254,938
Omagh Support and Self Help Group	217,747
WAVE Omagh	193,771
West Tyrone Voice	820,085

Equality Legislation

Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail the meetings and correspondence it has had with other (i) regional assemblies; and (ii) legislatures, about improving equality legislation.

(AQW 339/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister have not had any meetings or exchanged any correspondence with either (i) other regional assemblies; or (ii) other legislatures, about improving equality legislation.

However, as part of the work into developing proposals that might form part of any future equality legislation, officials remain in contact with their counterparts in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

North-South Ministerial Council

Mr Kieran McCarthy asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give an update on the work of the North-South Ministerial Council.

(AQO 206/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: On 18 September 2007 we provided a full statement to the Assembly on the fifth Plenary of the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC), which was held in Armagh on 17 July 2007. As outlined in our statement, the Plenary was significant in that it was the first meeting of the NSMC since 2002. Important decisions were taken in relation to investment in infrastructure matters and the restoration of a section of the Ulster Canal. The meeting agreed to invest £400 million in infrastructure improvements.

At the Plenary, the Council also considered and approved a schedule of NSMC meetings to take place over the coming months. The first of these – a Transport Sectoral – was held in Co Fermanagh on Friday 14 September. In accordance with the Ministerial Code, a full report on that meeting will be made to the Assembly tomorrow. Planning is underway for the other Sectoral meetings. Prior to these meetings, the Assembly will receive details of the date, agenda and Ministerial attendance.

Rights of Disabled People

Mrs Michelle O'Neill asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to outline how it intends to promote the rights of disabled people; and how it intends to mark the international and European 'disability days'.

(AQO 163/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister is committed to promoting the rights of disabled people by ensuring that there is robust disability anti-discrimination legislation in place.

To that end, we are continuing to build on the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act through the implementation of the Disability Discrimination (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 which gives further rights to disabled people.

The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland also has a responsibility for promoting the rights of disabled people and has previously organised events to mark international and European 'disability days’. Officials from OFMDFM will be speaking to staff at the Commission in the coming weeks to discuss how best to mark these dates.

Investment Strategy

Mr Seán Neeson asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give a timescale within which it will report on the formulation of the next Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland.

(AQO 205/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The Executive is taking a co-ordinated approach to the development of the Programme for Government, the Budget and the Investment Strategy. We intend to publish the Investment Strategy in draft form for consultation during November and December along with the Budget and Programme for Government.

There will be a full 8 week consultation period following the publication of the draft Investment Strategy. Once this has concluded we will deliberate on the Assembly’s views, and the views expressed through the consultation before seeking the agreement of the Assembly to the final Investment Strategy.

Civic Forum

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what plans it has to hold a Civic Forum meeting; and to detail how it will gauge public opinion and the opinion of elected representatives in respect of the role of the Civic Forum.

(AQO 197/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: We are agreed on the importance of continuing to seek the views of civic society in developing policy but we recognise that the nature of our society has changed considerably since the original Forum was set up.

Before we can take decisions about any reactivation of the Civic Forum, we need to ascertain how many of the existing members are still available and willing to serve, in an interim capacity, if it is decided to reconvene the Forum during the Review period. We have written to the members to establish their position.

Should the replies indicate sufficient interest among Forum members to return, we will then need to consider what they might usefully be tasked to do.

It is not possible at this stage to provide a detailed methodology for the Review, we have still to finalise the terms of reference, in consultation with the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister and with Executive colleagues.

However, we intend the Review panel to canvass views as widely as possible with key stakeholders and engagement with the OFMDFM Committee and the Assembly.

Efficiency of Departmental Structures

Mr Danny Kennedy asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what consultations and discussions it has had on the rationalisation of the number of Northern Ireland departments; and when proposals on this matter are likely to be brought before the Assembly.

(AQO 152/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: As we have already advised the Assembly, we are aware of concerns about the effectiveness and efficiency of the departmental structures we have inherited from the previous Executive. An examination of these structures could therefore be timely and we will be considering the most suitable mechanism and remit for such a review. At this time, however, no formal discussions or consultations have been initiated, nor is it possible to advise you of a date on which any proposals will be brought to the Assembly.

Programme for Government

Mr John O'Dowd asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to outline the timeframe for the development of the Programme for Government; and to give a timescale within which the department intends to present it to the Assembly for agreement.

(AQO 162/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: Since devolution was restored on 8 May, the Executive has taken forward work to develop and agree a Programme for Government which will set out our priorities and plans for 2008 and beyond. In taking that work forward, we have sought to ensure that our Programme for Government is clearly focused on addressing the key economic, social and environmental challenges we face if we are to build a better future for all our people.

Recognising the need for close alignment between our policy and spending priorities, the Executive is taking a co-ordinated approach to the development of the Programme for Government, the Budget and the Investment Strategy. We intend to publish these documents in draft form for consultation by early November. This will enable the Executive to take full account of the outcome of the CSR exercise which will be announced in mid October.

Assembly members will have the opportunity to comment on the draft Programme for Government, draft Budget and draft ISNI during the consultation period. Once this has concluded we will consider the Assembly’s views, and other views expressed through the consultation, before seeking the agreement of the Assembly to the final Programme for Government, Budget and Investment Strategy.

Lifetime Opportunities

Mr Tom Elliott asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister if it will give an assurance that it is fully committed to addressing rural poverty, as set out in 'Lifetime Opportunities' Government's Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Strategy.

(AQO 196/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: Section 16 of the Northern Ireland St Andrews Agreement Act 2006 places a statutory obligation on the Northern Ireland Executive Committee, to adopt a strategy setting out how it proposes to tackle poverty, social exclusion and patterns of deprivation based on objective need.

It is acknowledged that while poverty and multiple deprivation tend to be concentrated in urban areas, rural communities here are also at risk with high levels of deprivation in less accessible rural areas.

To this end the Executive is committed to ensuring that any ‘adopted’ strategy will address the specific issues of poverty and social exclusion being encountered in both urban and rural areas here.

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s (DARD) vision of a thriving and sustainable rural community and environment in Northern Ireland means that it is engaged in many activities that will directly and indirectly tackle rural poverty.

Agriculture continues to have an important economic role in the rural economy. DARD will strive to increase the economic sustainability of all farm businesses, and will work in conjunction with other Government Departments towards the elimination of poverty in rural areas.

DARD obtained EU approval for its 2007-13 Rural Development Programme on 24 July 2007. This programme will put over £500m into rural areas over the next 6 years, with a focus on improving the competitiveness of the farming industry, improving the environment, and improving the quality of life in rural areas.

North-South Ministerial Council

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give an assessment of the recent North-South Ministerial Council meeting; and to give a timescale for action to be taken on any decisions made.

(AQO 160/08)

Prior to these meetings, the Assembly will receive details of the date, agenda and Ministerial attendance.

Inward Investment

Mr Paul Maskey asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to outline the measures being taken to ensure that the fullest potential for inward investment, arising from the new political climate, is realised.

(AQO 164/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: We are already engaged in a number of major initiatives to encourage investment particularly from the United States.

Invest NI which is the responsibility of our ministerial colleague Nigel Dodds, also has an important role to market Northern Ireland in the United States and has invested considerable resources in this.

We intend to visit the United States later this year with colleagues to continue to promote Northern Ireland’s interests and in particular to focus on this very important economic work.

We will be travelling to Washington, DC and other major US cities to develop and promote a US NI economic conference in Belfast for 2008 and will be working with Minister Nigel Dodds to meet with Chief Executives of major US corporations to market the investment message.

Nigel Dodds will undertake visits to Boston, New York, San Jose and other regions to promote interest. The Northern Ireland Bureau is working with Paula Dobriansky at the US State Department and seeking involvement from US business people.

The Bureau is working with other Departments and organisations on economic initiatives with corporate America, networking with Irish and Scots-Irish communities, education and research partnerships with universities and schools, cultural and sporting activities and promoting our expertise and best practice at federal and state levels .

Invest Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Bureau are working with the US State Department and US businesses to bring 3 economic missions to Northern Ireland and 2 to the United States before March 2008.

The Bureau is working with Tourism Ireland, Northern Ireland Tourist Board on a campaign to target the Scots-Irish communities in the southern states.

The Bureau is working with NI and US universities on a health symposium to promote our skills and research expertise.

The Bureau is bringing exhibitions to New York, Chicago, Nashville, Milwaukee and Atlanta.

Cultural connections between Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Virginia were celebrated at a Bureau event and will be repeated in other areas of the United States.

In addition, Minister Nigel Dodds has agreed that Invest NI expand its overseas network with a new sales representative in India. The office will be within the British Deputy High Commission office in Mumbai and will develop opportunities with existing and potential investors.

Royal Ulster Constabulary Reservists

Mr David McNarry asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what progress has been made on representations to the Secretary of State for pension/gratuity payments to Royal Ulster Constabulary reservists.

(AQO 133/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: We wrote to the Secretary of State on 29 June 2007 enclosing a copy of the Official Record of the Assembly debate on Pension Provision for the Part-time RUC Reserve [Official Report 26 June 2007]. The Secretary of State has responded but it has been necessary for us to seek further clarification of some of the information provided.

Planning Appeals Backlog

Mrs Mary Bradley asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what steps it is taking to address the backlog of planning appeals.

(AQO 135/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: In recognition of the growing backlog of planning appeals facing the Planning Appeals Commission, we have agreed with the Department of Finance and Personnel to commission a review of the Commission’s funding and pressures. This review is currently underway and will help inform future decisions on appropriate levels of support for the Commission.

OFMDFM Website

Ms Anna Lo asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what plans it has to provide a good relations section on its website.

(AQO 208/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The department’s website has been designed, developed and built to meet the world wide web consortium accessibility initiative standard. It is kept under review to ensure that it remains in line with departmental objectives and continues to benefit the end user.

The website has webpages on both community relations and racial equality and good relations. These pages will be reviewed and developed and given appropriate prominence as the Executive’s policy on good relations develops. We very much welcome suggestions which improve and enhance our website and have asked our officials to discuss with you your ideas for improving this part of the website.

Child Poverty

Mr Fred Cobain asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to provide an update on the most recent Government statistics on child poverty in Northern Ireland; and to detail how this reflects on the progress towards achieving the United Kingdom target of halving child poverty by 2010, and eradicating it by 2020.

(AQO 195/08)

Rt Hon Dr Paisley and Mr McGuinness: The basis on which child poverty is measured has been changed. The figures below reflect the impact of these changes and of course other impacts related to policy.

Based on the new methodology the number and percentage of children in relative income poverty in;

2002/2003 was 119,000(27%)
2005/2006 was 122,000 (29%)

Based on the old methodology the 2002/2003 figure was 114,000 (26%).

It is not possible to indicate progress made as the estimates for the number of children in relative income poverty for the baseline year of 1998/99 are in the process of being revised in light of the new methodology.

There are no projections available to indicate whether the child poverty target is likely to be met in Northern Ireland by 2010.

Agriculture and Rural Development

Forestry

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what progress has been made towards increasing the added value of forestry in Northern Ireland, by developing small-scale sawmills and biofuels, and by increasing the area of woodlands brought into active management on farms.

(AQW 159/08)

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms Gildernew): In 2004, DARD’s Forest Service established a three year Challenge Fund to encourage landowners to establish willow coppice for an energy end-use. Under this scheme 950 hectares of willow coppice were established (or approved for establishment) by 45 rural businesses. Under Axis I of the 2007-2013 Rural Development Plan, funding will be available for further short rotation coppice establishment.

Forest Service has worked with timber customers and signed long term contracts with both large and smaller sawmills, which has assisted in providing the confidence within the industry to invest in new wood processing technology. This has both strengthened the economic performance of sawmills and has underpinned the demand for home grown timber from both state and private forests. In addition, Forest Service continue to offer an appropriate volume of timber through a quarterly tendering process to accommodate very small sawmills not yet wishing to engage in long term contracts.

Agri-Food Industry

Mr David Simpson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what analysis she has carried out to establish the ability of Northern Ireland's agri-food industry to enable it to compete successfully against that of the Republic of Ireland.

(AQW 160/08)

Ms Gildernew: Invest NI is responsible for supporting food processing companies in the North. Our food processing sector turnover was £2.5 billion in 2004 with 18,391 employees.

My Department undertakes extensive statistical analysis of the size and performance of the local agri-food industry. This information is published annually and represents the primary source of statistical information and performance indicators for industry.

DARD, in conjunction with Invest NI, has undertaken substantial consumer market research. This "Periscope Research" represents one of the most in depth evaluations of food consumption carried out within Ireland and Britain, involving a sample of 3,000 people. The results of this research will help local companies to target markets more effectively, especially those in Britain and the South.

A major diagnostic study of the export readiness of the food processing sector was also commissioned from Food from Britain under the auspices of the Food Strategy Fit for Market Report. This research produced a valuable assessment of the export capabilities of local companies.

The work carried out by my Department, along with Invest NI has not only given the industry the tools to further explore market opportunities, but it has also galvanised the sector to work together for the greater good of the entire agri-food industry.

Agri-Food Industry

Mr David Simpson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how she intends to increase the ability of Northern Ireland's agri-food industry to enable it to compete successfully against that of the Republic of Ireland.

(AQW 162/08)

Ms Gildernew: One of the key aims of my Department is to help increase the competitiveness of our agri-food industry. As we export a majority of our meat and dairy produce we need to be competitive on a world stage taking account of all our competitors.

My Department, along with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment, have been working together to implement over 20 recommendations form the Food Strategy Group’s "Fit for Market" report. These cover four key areas, Marketing, Innovation, Supply Chain and Capability that will assist our agri-food industry to compete successfully in all markets including the South of Ireland.

DARD is involved in a number of initiatives designed to increase our competitiveness in export markets, including; the Supply Chain Awareness Programme, facilitating farmer and industry groups in examining how and why certain competitors are effective; the Beef Eating Quality Project, designed to improve the eating quality of our beef.

At primary producer level; knowledge and technology transfer, industry training programmes, and benchmarking, all contribute to improving the performance of farm businesses and assisting farmers and growers to produce the quality of product demanded by an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

I am currently engaged in discussions with the DETI Minister to ensure that the local agri-food industry has cohesive, fit for purpose support structures that will allow our quality products to continue to compete in the world marketplace.

Joint Afforestation Strategy

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to meet with her counterpart in the Republic of Ireland to explore the development of a joint afforestation strategy.

(AQW 163/08)

Ms Gildernew: I have no immediate plans to meet my counterpart, Mary Wallace, Minister at the Department of Agriculture and Food, about afforestation issues.

A Forestry Strategy was published by my Department in 2006, following two rounds of public consultation and an economic appraisal. The Strategy outlines main themes, one of which is a programme of afforestation, that the Department will take forward through the 2007 -2013 Rural Development Programme approved by the European Commission on 24 July 2007.

I am aware, however, of a range of forestry issues that my officials deal positively with in co-operation with their counterparts in the South and further opportunities to develop the approach are being discussed. I will wish, therefore, to meet Minister Wallace in due course to discuss these matters. The possible opportunities around a joint afforestation strategy could also be usefully explored at such a meeting.

I recognise, however, that there is work to be done to increase forest cover in the North, in order to reach a comparable level with the twenty six counties and the rest of Europe.

Coastal Erosion

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what measures and investment are being introduced to protect the Irish coastline from sea erosion.

(AQW 227/08)

Ms Gildernew: The North of Ireland does not have any legislation specifically related to coastal erosion. A licensing system under the Food and Environment Act 1985 (FEPA) is operated by the Environment and Heritage Service of the Department of Environment in which a licence is required for works involving a deposition of materials below the high water mean spring tide. A long standing inter-Departmental agreement known as the Bateman formula is in place whereby cost beneficial works to protect essential infrastructure from erosion may be undertaken by the Department or authority responsible for the asset at risk. DARD, Rivers Agency has sole responsibility for 26kms of sea defences to protect against flooding and undertakes essential works when the cost of works satisfies the cost benefit criteria. The Rivers Agency also undertakes essential cost effective works to combat erosion, which do not fall within the functional area of other Departments or Agencies.

Coastal flood risk management and erosion policy is currently under examination in the light of an independent review of Rivers Agency Flood Management Policy and the impending EU Flood Risk Management Directive. Also proposals are underway to replace FEPA through the UK Marine Bill which seeks to put in place legislative and structural reforms to deliver integrated management of the coastal and marine area.

Mountain-Biking

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to provide funding for mountain-biking in forests in Northern Ireland and to detail any previous consideration given to the provision of such funding.

(AQW 230/08)

Ms Gildernew: My Department is not currently dealing with any applications for funding of mountain bike projects. The Department is currently developing its rural development strategies under the rural development programme (2007-2013) and these will provide the basis for assessment and funding of projects. The Department has previously considered applications for funding under the Rural Development Programme Natural Resource Rural Tourism Initiative, for components of a cycling strategy for NI developed by CAAN. My Department provided the funding associated with the construction of 3 family cycling trails in 2006 in major recreational forests in counties Down, Fermanagh and Armagh. My Department remains committed to developing the recreational use of forests as outlined in the forestry strategy – A Strategy for Sustainability and Growth published in 2006.

Single Farm Payments

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will detail the number of apologies issued to farmers and land owners in the 2006 calendar year, due to computer or clerical errors made in her department's offices.

(AQW 247/08)

Ms Gildernew: During the 2006 calendar year, four of the responses to complaints made under the Department’s formal complaint procedure and letters to the minister in relation to the Single Farm Payment Scheme included an apology for administration errors made by the Department.

Single Farm Payments

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the proposed timetable for the hearing of all appeals against decisions made by her department in relation to 2005 Single Farm Payments.

(AQW 248/08)

Ms Gildernew: Appeals are dealt with on a chronological basis. Their completion is subject to obtaining all relevant information some of which may be from third parties over which my Department has no control. In a number of cases we are awaiting additional information from the appellants and, again, these cases cannot progress until this is received.

However, I can advise that as of 19 September 2007 there were 31 Stage 1 and 162 Stage 2 cases outstanding.

Of the 162 Stage 2 appeals outstanding, 58 cases have been heard by the Panel (5 cases adjourned) and decisions on these will be issued in the near future. A further 53 cases are ready for consideration by the Panel and these will be heard over the coming months. There are 13 cases currently on hold pending information from third parties and there are 27 cases being processed to Panel stage. Processing of the remaining 11 cases will begin soon.

I can assure you that every effort is being made to clear the outstanding cases as quickly as possible.

Biofuels

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what is her assessment of food production being compromised by the growing of crops for use as biofuels.

(AQW 249/08)

Ms Gildernew: Such a compromise is not envisaged.

Current market conditions are more attractive to the arable sector for the growing of cereal crops, rather than for energy crops.

As you will be aware, our agriculture is predominately grass based, with only around 5 per cent devoted to other, mainly cereal and vegetable, crops. Only 470 hectares of oilseed rape was planted as of June 2006 indicating that the overall impact on food production is negligible.

Although DARD modestly supports the growth of crops for energy under the EU Aid for Energy Crops Scheme, there are no plans to further support the growth of crops specifically for the purpose of biofuel production.

Biofuels

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what is her assessment of the long-term effect that the growing of crops for biofuels will have on quality agricultural land.

(AQW 250/08)

Ms Gildernew: Growing biomass and biofuel crops should not lead to any fundamental change in the quality of our farmed land. The management of growing oilseed rape and cereals for biofuel puposes does not differ significantly from that involved where the crop is being grown for food purposes.

Biomass crops such as short rotation coppice willows (SRC) and miscanthus remain in the ground for 15 to 20 years and can build up a substantial root or rhizome system. However, this ground can be returned to grass production by the use of: an approved herbicide to kill the willows or miscanthus; rotavation to break up the roots or rhizomes; and resowing.

While Miscanthus ground can return to arable cropping immediately, it may take several seasons to return to SRC Willow ground to arable crop production. Where willows have also been used for the bioremediation of sewage sludge or effluent there will be a further delay before the land can be used for food production.

In Summary there is no evidence that growing biomass crops leads to any decline in soil quality.

Land and Facilities at Castlederg Nursery

Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline for what purpose she intends to use the current land and facilities at Castlederg Nursery, once the present nursery use ends.

(AQW 262/08)

Ms Gildernew: The land and facilities at Castlederg nursery are currently being managed with the main objective of growing transplants and this will remain the case until May 2008.

No decision has been taken on the long-term future of the land and facilities after the cessation of plant production.

Any decision taken will, however, be in line with the strategic objectives of DARD, the Forestry Strategy, and will also take account of the current review of Forest Service organisational structure to provide a more efficient delivery of services.

Farm Viability Criteria

Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail, broken down by district council area, the number of applications it has received for farm viability criteria from Planning Service, and the number of these that were recommended to Planning Service as being viable, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 264/08)

Ms Gildernew: The information provided details the number of requests for viability assessments received by DARD from DOE, Planning Service during the past five years. As our recording system does not hold this information by district council area, it is broken down on a county basis. Please note that the issue of whether permission for a dwelling should be given is a matter for the Planning Service and not DARD.

	Number viability assessments received from Planning Service	Number recommended to Planning Service as being viable
Antrim
2003	141	65
2004	119	79
2005	123	75
2006	76	47
2007	63	43
Armagh
2003 from July onwards	26	11
2004	60	33
2005	87	36
2006	62	31
2007	74	39
Down
2003	261	141
2004	200	124
2005	183	118
2006	130	93
2007	81	56
Fermanagh
2003	24	8
2004	21	11
2005	24	10
2006	25	13
2007	41	16
Derry/Londonderry
2003	59	31
2004	62	41
2005	118	57
2006	105	47
2007	54	23
Tyrone
2003	47	25
2004	58	37
2005	62	37
2006	94	46
2007	58	33

Organic Farming

Mr Allan Bresland asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what plans she has to promote organic farming in Northern Ireland.

(AQW 303/08)

Ms Gildernew: Under the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2007-2013, which was approved by the European Commission in late July 2007, I hope to offer a new Organic Farming Scheme to assist farmers who wish to convert from conventional to organic production.

The new Scheme should offer increased levels of support for the organic livestock sector, with additional support for the organic cereal and horticulture sectors. DARD proposes to pay the following amounts to farmers to cover the first five years of conversion to organic production:

Horticulture (including top fruit) - £670

Arable - £570

Other Improved Land - £470

These payments are on a ‘per hectare’ basis, and will be apportioned over the five years.

I also hope to offer an ongoing post-conversion payment of £30 per hectare per year for such land, which is certified organic, under the proposed Organic Option in the new Countryside Management Scheme.

In addition to this, CAFRE (Greenmount Campus) continues to provide education, advice and ongoing support in relation to organic farming. It also develops and tests new technologies appropriate to the local organic sector.

Development of Tullaghoge Fort

Mr Patsy McGlone asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the support that her department will make available, to assist the efforts being made by Cookstown District Council and other organisations to develop and improve Tullaghoge Fort, the inauguration site for the O'Neill's of Ulster.

(AQW 319/08)

Ms Gildernew: The site is currently owned by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The monument is held in Guardianship by DOE and is also scheduled for protection under the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995.

DOE is in the process of acquiring the site from DARD, to assist the protection and management of the site, and has been working with Cookstown District Council to facilitate recent Flight of the Earls events held at this monument.

Any potential development activity in respect of the Fort can only be undertaken with Environment & Heritage Service approval.

In that context, it may be possible for Cookstown District Council, as part of a council cluster/Local Action Group delivering rural development funding under the NI Rural Development Programme (NIRDP) 2007-13, to consider funding the development of Tullaghoge Fort.

There are specific measures in the NIRDP for conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage as well as for the development of tourism and recreation facilities. The council cluster/Local Action Group will need to consider if this is a strategic priority for the area to determine potential access to funding.

Deliberate Introduction of Tuberculosis or Brucellosis to Livestock

Mr David McNarry asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of ongoing fraud cases that involve the suspected deliberate introduction of tuberculosis or brucellosis to livestock.

(AQW 407/08)

Ms Gildernew: There are no ongoing fraud cases that involve the suspected deliberate introduction of tuberculosis or brucellosis to livestock.

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development are however withholding disease compensation from a number of farmers for alleged breaches of legislation. Some of these cases are currently subject to investigation.

Culture, Arts and Leisure

Funding For Karate Sports

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much financial assistance has been made available for karate sports, and in particular Taekwondo, in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years.

(AQW 207/08)

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr Poots): Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of financial assistance to sports organisations. SNI has made the following awards to Karate and Taekwondo in Northern Ireland over the last five years:

Karate Taekwondo

Financial Years Lottery Exchequer Lottery Exchequer

2003/04 0 9,350 0 18,811

2004/05 1,400 0 0 0

2005/06 6,500 0 0 7,645

2006/07 2,800 0 6,400 32,239*

2007/08 0 0 0 0

Totals 10,700 9,350 6,400 58,695

*Relates to three-year period 2006-2009

In addition to the financial assistance from SNI, the Department for Social Development has provided the following funding under the Local Community Fund to Cross Glebe Shotokan Karate Club in the Coleraine area:

2003/04 £15,950

2006/07 £11,000

It is not possible to ascertain specifically if any financial assistance was allocated to Further Education Colleges by the Department for Employment and Learning on karate sports or on Taekwondo in any of the last five years. Data submitted by the colleges does not allow for the identification of this particular provision.

Northern Ireland Library Authority

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to explain how the membership of the Northern Ireland Library Authority will reflect fully the democratic, regional and demographic situation.

(AQW 210/08)

Mr Poots: Members of the Board of the new Library Authority will be appointed on merit following an open competition. Members will be chosen on the basis of the skills and expertise necessary to do the job.

On the basis of the guidance of the Office of the Commissioner for Public Appointments the principles of equality of opportunity will be inherent in the competition and I will ensure that my Department takes appropriate action to attract suitable candidates from all sections of Northern Ireland society.

Requests for Funding

Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to his answer to AQW 91/07, if he will meet with organisers of (a) the Independent Orange Order 12 July celebrations; (b) the annual Sham Fight of Scarva; and (c) the Annual Royal Black Institution Black Saturday celebrations, with a view to extending departmental funding to include these events.

(AQW 211/08)

Mr Poots: I will give consideration to all requests for meetings from any organisation and respond accordingly.

Libraries Bill

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure whether the delay in establishing the Education and Skills Authority until April 2009 has implications for the Libraries Bill, and to detail these.

(AQW 212/08)

Mr Poots: No. The delay in the establishment of the Education and Skills Authority has no direct implications for the Libraries Bill.

Single Library Authority

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to comment on his plans to establish a quango for libraries in Northern Ireland, if an aim of the Review of Public Administration was to reduce the number of quangos.

(AQW 213/08)

Mr Poots: The NI Executive approved my proposal for a single Library Authority at its meeting on 7 June 2007 and on 19 June the Assembly agreed that the draft legislation could go to the Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee for scrutiny.

The Review of Public Administration had a number of aims amongst which was the desire for high-quality public services accessible to all. The consultation on the Review proposed a two-tier model with a regional tier encompassing the Assembly, government departments, and regional authorities, which would focus on policy development, setting standards and service delivery.

The establishment of a single Library Authority creates a new non-departmental public body in this regional tier to replace the existing 5 Library Authorities. This will lead to improved service delivery, clearer accountability and, amongst other things, more opportunities for integration and partnerships across the public, community and voluntary sectors.

Rally Ireland in 2007

Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the support he is giving to Rally Ireland in 2007.

(AQW 265/08)

Mr Poots: The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) has provided £16,685.21 to Rally Ireland to cover the cost of producing a business case for the 2007 World Rally Championship event and £200,000 to cover Northern Ireland’s proportion of the cost of preparatory work for the event.

From 1 April 2007 Northern Ireland’s funding for Rally Ireland will be provided through Sport Northern Ireland (SNI). It is expected that SNI will provide Rally Ireland with £696,955 for its 2007 event.

Fish Stocks

Mr Daithí McKay asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to list each occasion upon which (i) Killylane Reservoir; (ii) Altnahinch Reservoir; and (iii) Dungonnell Reservoir were stocked, and the number of fish that were put into each reservoir, in each of the last two years.

(AQW 404/08)

Mr Poots: The stocking regime for these fisheries is set out in the attached Table. Dungonnell Reservoir is operated as a wild fishery and is only occasionally stocked as there is a natural recruitment of wild trout.

Killylane and Altnahinch Reservoirs will have further stockings shortly. The Department’s policy is to stock its fisheries on a regular basis but this is governed by operational matters at the Department’s fish farm and water temperature effects on fish growth. These factors have affected the regularity of stocking at these fisheries.

Edwin Poots MLA

TROUT STOCKINGS

ALTNAHINCH				KILLYLANE				DUNGONNELL
2006		2007		2006		2007		2006		2007
Date	No.	Date	No.	Date	No.	Date	No.	Date	No.	Date	No.
27 Jan	800†	12Jan	1,800	15 Feb	1800	24 Jan	1800	21 Feb	700	2 Mar	900
3 Feb	800†	20Apr	1,800	27 Mar	1000	8 Mar	900			22 Jun	600
14 Mar	700†	18May	900	23 May	1000	19 Apr	1800
26 May	1000†	1 Jun	900	7 Jul	800	23 May	900
7 Jul	800			20 Jul	800	27 Jun	900
25 Jul	800			25 Jul	800
25 Aug	500			8 Aug	800
Total	5400		5400		7000		6300		700		1500

†Rainbow trout

Education

Priory Integrated College

Mr Brian Wilson asked the Minister of Education if, in light of the increased enrolment at Priory Integrated College, she is able to give approval for building to commence at the site of the new school.

(AQW 6/08)

The Minister of Education (Ms Ruane): Following a review of previously announced capital schemes in planning, the capital project for Priory Integrated College, Holywood was put on hold pending further examination of the proposed scheme with the South Eastern Education and Library Board. The school’s enrolment is a factor to be taken into account as well as the sustainability of the projected enrolment of the school, enrolment trends for the area, and the potential implications of these trends for the scheme. I expect to be able to provide confirmation of the position on the scheme shortly.

Centre of Excellence for Autism at Middletown

Mr John McCallister asked the Minister of Education to detail the organisations with experience of working with those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder that were consulted about the Centre of Excellence for Autism at Middletown; and what was the advice received from Autism NI (PAPA) in relation to this issue.

(AQW 29/08)

Ms Ruane: In December 2002 the views of the Chairperson and Chief Executives of the following organisations, with experience of working with children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), were sought: the Education and Library Boards; the Health and Social Services Boards and Trusts; the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools; the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education; and Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta. In addition views were sought of the Principal Educational Psychologists and Special Education Officers of the Education and Library Boards. The views of a range of similar organisations were sought by the Department of Education and Science.

In August and September 2007 two stakeholder consultations were held at the Middletown Centre for Autism to canvass opinion about the building and refurbishment project. The following organisations, with experience of working with children with ASD, were invited to attend:

National Autistic Society, Autism NI (PAPA), Parents Education as Autism Therapists, Special Provision for the Education of Autistic Children, Disability Action, Mencap, the Chief Executives of each of the Education and Library Boards, Northern Ireland Commisioner for Children and Young People (NICCY), NICCY Youth Panel, Council for Catholic Maintained Schools, Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education, Comhairle Na Gaelscolaíochta, Association of Teachers and Lecturers, Irish National Teachers Organisation, National Association of Head Teachers, National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers, Ulster Teachers Union, Inspection Services Branch from the Department of Education, Special Standing Conference, Camphill Community Glencraig, Appleby Trust, Allied Health Professionals from the Department of Health and Social Services, Lisanally Special School, Sperrinview Special School, Roddensvale Special School, Clifton Special School, Harberton Special School, Irish Autism Action, Irish Society for Autism, ASPIRE, Irish Progressive Association for Autism, St Patrick’s College of Education, Association of Community and Comprehensive Schools, Catholic Primary Schools Management Association, Church of Ireland Board of Education, An Foras Patrúnachta, Educate Together, Irish Vocational Educational Association, Joint Managerial Body, National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education Schools, Secondary Education Committee, National Parents Council (Post Primary), National Parents Council (Primary), Association of Teaching Sisters, Association of Secondary School Teachers in the North of Ireland, Irish Schoolheads Association, Irish National Teachers Organisation, Irish Principals Network, National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, Teachers Union of Ireland, Holy Family Special School and St Brigid’s Special School.

Following the appointment of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, and some of the senior management team, the Middletown Centre for Autism is planning an extensive consultation exercise for later this year. This will include those involved with children and young people with autism within the public, private and voluntary sectors. The purpose of this consultation is both to inform and invite comments regarding how the proposed services should be delivered by the Centre. The exercise is also designed to seek views in relation to the expectations of the Middletown Centre. The outturn of the consultation exercise will be to inform future developments at the Centre.

With regards to advice received from Autism NI (PAPA) on this issue, when the plans to open a Centre of Excellence for Autism in Middletown were first announced in 2002, they released a statement saying that:

‘It is a milestone in the campaign for government recognition of the specialist needs of children challenged with the social, communication and behavioural difficulties associated with Autism.

The development of the Centre of Excellence provides a tremendous opportunity to make a wide range of interventions known to be effective in ameliorating the long-term effects of Autism, more accessible to the wider community.

PAPA, the Autism Charity for the North of Ireland and Donegal, believes that the Centre of Excellence will act as a catalyst for the enhancement of awareness, expertise and research activity regarding Autism throughout the island of Ireland. We look forward to playing our part and working with the Education departments, North and South, to ensure that the Centre of Excellence for Autism is second to none’

On the 18^th January 2007 Autism NI (PAPA) addressed the Joint Committee on Education and Science at Leinster House in Dublin. In her address the Chief Executive referred to the Middletown Centre for Autism and highlighted the need to ‘support a cross-border initiative to address the All-Ireland identification and sharing of best practice across all sectors’. She also emphasised the importance of ensuring ‘effective representation of the Voluntary Sector in any strategy’.

At the stakeholder consultation meeting in August 2007 held to consider the building and refurbishment programme, Autism NI (PAPA) representatives provided a positive contribution to the discussion.

Suspension of Members of the South Eastern Education and Library Board

Mr Brian Wilson asked the Minister of Education if she will outline when she intends to lift the suspension imposed on the members of the South Eastern Education and Library Board.

(AQW 88/08)

Ms Ruane: In the interests of local accountability I would be keen that the members of the SEELB Board take up their former responsibilities. However, it would be essential to ensure that there would be no return to the difficulties which the Commissioners inherited when they were appointed in July 2006 and that the stability which has since been achieved is sustained. I am therefore arranging to meet with a cross-section of Board members to explore their readiness to take up their former responsibilities and to deliver those effectively. That meeting will help inform decisions on how best to move forward.

GCSE and A-level Courses

Mr David Simpson asked the Minister of Education what analysis she has made of GCSE and A-level courses, with a view to ensuring that Northern Ireland's education system creates a highly skilled workforce.

(AQW 190/08)

Ms Ruane: New A-level specifications have been accredited for first teaching from 2008 and the Council for the Curriculum, Qualifications and Assessment (CCEA), in its capacity as the regulator of qualifications here, is consulting on draft criteria which will be used in developing revised GCSE specifications to be introduced for first teaching from 2009/10.

Revised A-level and GCSE provision will take account of the introduction of the revised curriculum in schools and reflect the breadth of learning that is required by the Entitlement Framework.

The Entitlement Framework will guarantee all pupils access to a greater range of vocational courses, equipping them with the professional and technical skills that business and industry needs. Pupils will be able to access courses appropriate to their individual needs, interests and aspirations, providing a wider choice at age 14 and an even wider choice at age 16.

An individual school’s curricular offer will be determined at local level, by schools discussing with each other, with their local FE colleges, with employers and the local community what the range of provision should be.

Creationism

Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 637/07, if she would outline the nature of the scope provided by the science curriculum for pupils to explore other views about how the world came into existence.

(AQW 208/08)

Ms Ruane: The Department of Education does not tell teachers how to teach. The revised curriculum sets out the statutory minimum to be covered and the learning outcomes to be focused on. It provides greater flexibility for teachers to tailor provision for their pupils and greater opportunities for creationist views to be explored. There are areas other than science in which these could be explored, for example, Religious Education.

Creationism

Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 337/07, to comment on whether her department was informed about discussions that the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessments (CCEA) has held with interested parties in relation to the teaching of (i) evolution; (ii) creationism; and (iii) Intelligent Design, in schools in Northern Ireland, and to detail the recommendations made by CCEA to her department following these discussions.

(AQW 215/08)

Ms Ruane: In carrying out its statutory duty to advise on curriculum matters, CCEA met with interested parties about these areas. Departmental officials were aware of the meetings, and the position remains that the revised curriculum provides the flexibility for suitable teaching opportunities to explore the theories of evolution, creationism and Intelligent Design as appropriate.

Youth Outreach Work

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to increase expenditure on youth outreach work, to be delivered on the ground, as a means of addressing the rise in anti-social behaviour.

(AQW 229/08)

Ms Ruane: The Department allocates an overall budget of approximately £32 million for youth services. Of that, £1·82 million has been allocated in 2007-08 for outreach and detached youth workers.

The youth sector has an important role to play in helping to address issues of young people involved in anti-social behaviour. However, it is only one of a number of agencies and services dealing with this issue.

In recent years, the Department has earmarked additional resources to provide for outreach workers in Each Education and Library Board area. Over the next few months, the Department will be developing ‘Priorities for the Youth Service’ which will identify the priorities for the sector, and help determine any additional resources required to deliver front line youth services, such as outreach work. We will be in a better position to determine plans for expenditure when this work is complete.

It is essential however that the resources currently available for outreach are prioritised according to need. Therefore, I have asked departmental officials to re-examine, with colleagues in each Education and Library Board, the deployment of outreach workers in areas of objective need.

Teacher's Pay and Pensions Branch

Mr Mark Durkan asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of staff working in Teacher's Pay and Pensions Branch in Waterside House, Derry/Londonderry, who are currently on the Civil Service transfer list; and the number who have been waiting to be transferred for longer than 12 months.

(AQW 340/08)

Ms Ruane: A total of 130 staff work in Teacher's Pensions, Pay and Administration Branch in Waterside House, Derry. Of these 64 are currently on the Northern Civil Service Central Transfer List (CTL); 58 of whom have been waiting to be transferred for longer than 12 months.

Employment and Learning

Belfast Metropolitan College

Ms Jennifer McCann asked the Minister for Employment and Learning, in respect of the Whiterock campus of the Belfast Metropolitan College, (a) why no full-time co-ordinator is employed at the campus; (b) why no co-ordinator has been appointed to run the college for the last 2 years; and (c) what management structures are in place to run the college.

(AQW 222/08)

The Minister for Employment and Learning (Sir Reg Empey): I understand that some three years ago the, then, Belfast Institute of Further and Higher Education introduced management changes to its Whiterock campus, to bring it into line with arrangements at the Institute’s other sites. These changes provide for a line management structure to oversee academic and support services.

As a result of these changes, Whiterock has been managed on the same basis as all other sites in the former Belfast Institute, now part of the new Belfast Metropolitan College.

Belfast Metropolitan College

Ms Jennifer McCann asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to outline plans for the long-term future of the Whiterock campus of the Belfast Metropolitan College; and whether there are plans to close it in the near future.

(AQW 223/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Further Education Colleges in Northern Ireland are autonomous organisations and their Governing Bodies determine how best to utilise their capital assets.

The newly appointed Governing Body for Belfast Metropolitan College will wish to consider all aspects of the College’s estate, but, I understand, it has not, to date, made any decision regarding the retention or disposal of the Whiterock campus.

Belfast Metropolitan College

Ms Jennifer McCann asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of full-time; and part-time courses being delivered at the Whiterock campus of the Belfast Metropolitan College; and to list all courses delivered at the campus.

(AQW 224/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Belfast Metropolitan College has not yet completed enrolment for the 2007/08 academic year. The numbers enrolling for any particular course will determine whether that course is viable. Therefore, it is not yet possible to provide final details of provision at any particular campus of the College. However, during the 2006/07 academic year there were 7 full-time and 65 part-time courses delivered at the Whiterock campus.

I have attached, at Annex A, a full list of the courses that were delivered at the campus during the 2006/07 academic year.

Annex A

Courses delivered at Whiterock campus during 2006/07

Hairdressing Level 1
Beauty Therapy (Levels 1, 2 and 3)
NVQ Beauty Therapy
NVQ Beauty Therapy (Level 2)
NDLP Beauty Therapy (Level 2)
International Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy
Hairdressing (Levels 2 and 3)
NDLP Hairdressing (Level 2)
NVQ Nail Services (Level 2)
Spanish Level 1
Mathematics
St Tropez Tanning Course
Brazilian Waxing
Motor Vehicle Maintenance
Woodwork Special Needs
Engineering
Basic Cutting
Cutting
Text & Word Processing Stage 1
Text/Word Processing (Levels 1,2 and 3)
Audio Transcription 1
Special Needs Computers (OCR Entry Level)
Special Needs/Beginners Computers
OCR Text and Audio Transcription (Level 2)
Audio Stage 3
SAGE Payroll
Supported Skills
European Computer Driving Licence
Sports Massage & Injury Prevention
Computerised Accounts SAGE (Levels 1, 2 and 3)
Chemistry
Biology
History
English Literature
Occupational Studies (Single and Double Award)
NVQ Level 1 Wood Occupations
NVQ Level 1 Catering
Construction & Catering
NVQ Level 1 Food Preparation
Occupational Studies Hair and Beauty

Belfast Metropolitan College

Ms Jennifer McCann asked the Minister for Employment and Learning for a breakdown of the number of full-time and part-time students attending courses at the Whiterock campus of the Belfast Metropolitan College.

(AQW 225/08)

Sir Reg Empey: Belfast Metropolitan College has not completed enrolment for the 2007/08 academic year. Therefore, final figures for the number of full time and part time students are not yet available.

However, during the 2006/07 academic year there were 112 full-time and 769 part-time students enrolled on courses at the Whiterock campus.

Student Bursaries

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Employment and Learning to detail (i) the number of applications for a bursary for university and/or college, broken down by Education and Library Board area, for the last year; and (ii) the number of these that were successful.

(AQW 242/08)

Sir Reg Empey: For academic year 2006/07, the total number of applications for a higher education bursary / maintenance grant, including successful applications, is as set out in the table below:

Education and Library Board	Total Applications	Successful Applications
BELFAST	2,556	2,409
NORTH EASTERN	3,503	3,296
SOUTH EASTERN	3,331	3,135
SOUTHERN	4,247	3,942
WESTERN	4,596	4,358
	18,223	17,140

Student Bursaries

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of student bursaries that have not been paid out for this year, broken down by Education and Library Board.

(AQW 243/08)

Sir Reg Empey: For the current academic year (AY) 2007/08, no higher education bursaries/ maintenance grants have been paid to date. Payments are released to the student in three instalments throughout the year, with the first instalment due for release in October 2007. The table below sets out details of total applications received to date and a breakdown of successful and unsuccessful applications.

Education and Library Board	Total Applications	Successful Applications	Unsuccessful Applications
BELFAST	2,198	2,139	59
NORTH EASTERN	2,974	2,905	69
SOUTH EASTERN	2,706	2,554	152
SOUTHERN	3,771	3,529	242
WESTERN	3,692	3,457	235
	15,341	14,584	757

Independent Students

Mr Jimmy Spratt asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will define the term 'independent student'; and to outline what additional financial support is available to those categorised as an 'independent student' in third level education.

(AQW 276/08)

Sir Reg Empey: For student support purposes, the definition of an independent student includes, amongst others, a person who on the first day of the academic year falls within one of the following categories: is over 25; married or in a civil partnership; has no living parents; or has supported himself/herself for at least three years.

A full list of categories is contained in paragraph 2 of Schedule 5 to the Education (Student Support) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007 (S.R. 2007 No. 195), which is available in the Assembly Library.

Eligible independent students may be entitled to additional supplementary grants such as adult dependants’ grant, parents’ learning allowance and childcare grant.

University Enrolment

Mr Jimmy Spratt asked the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of students entering the first year of undergraduate degree courses in Northern Ireland; the number of these that are from (i) Northern Ireland; (ii) elsewhere in the United Kingdom; (iii) the Republic of Ireland; and (iv) outside the British Isles.

(AQW 354/08)

Sir Reg Empey: First year undergraduate degree enrolments at Northern Ireland institutions by domicile 2005/06

NI	Elsewhere in the UK	Republic of Ireland	Outside the British Isles	Total
11,185	110	665	205	12,165

Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) & Further Education Statistical Record (FESR)

NOTE: Figures are rounded to the nearest 5. Figures for the 2006/07 academic year will not be available until early 2008.

Enterprise, Trade and Investment

Invest NI

Mr Simon Hamilton asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the locations of the 32 acres of land held by Invest NI in the Ards Borough Council area.

(AQW 307/08)

The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Mr Dodds): Invest Northern Ireland holds land at 3 locations in the Ards Borough Council area.

The landholding at Ballyharry Business Park is 21.40 acres, at Corry Street/Forde Street it is 5.65 acres and at Jubilee Road Industrial Estate the holding is 4.45 acres.

Visitors' Centre at the Giant's Causeway

Mr Declan O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, prior to his announcement of 10 September 2007, what was his assessment of the private sector proposal for a Visitors' Centre at the Giant's Causeway, with specific reference to the provision of a world-class facility, the necessity for which has been agreed.

(AQW 324/08)

Mr Dodds: Prior to 10 September 2007, I was aware that a private sector planning application for a substantial visitor centre proposal was under consideration by the Planning Service. My statement of 10 September 2007 indicated that further expenditure on the public sector proposal would not, in the circumstances, be a prudent use of taxpayers’ money. It would require some £1m further expenditure to bring the public sector proposal to contract stage. My Department intends to meet with the private sector developer shortly to discuss his proposal and will keep the Department’s position under review in light of developments.

Visitors' Centre at the Giant's Causeway

Mr Declan O'Loan asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline the role and status of his department in relation to the development of a Visitors' Centre at the Giant's Causeway; and, given that a grant of planning approval gives no guarantee that the approved development will be built, to state the reasons for his decision to withdraw his department's financial support for the public sector scheme on the basis of a likely planning approval for a private sector visitors' centre.

(AQW 326/08)

Mr Dodds: As Minister responsible for tourism I wish to see the delivery of a facility that does justice to the importance of the Giant’s Causeway as a heritage and tourism asset. DETI has sought to advance that objective since 2003, when Direct Rule Ministers announced Government involvement, effectively as ‘developer of last resort’.

In pursuance of my duty as Minister to ensure the prudent use of taxpayers’ money I took the decision to suspend further expenditure on the Government’s proposal, in the circumstances created by Minister Foster’s statement of 10 September. I will continue to monitor developments and will keep the Department’s position under review in light of developments.

Regional Tourism Partnerships

Dr Stephen Farry asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what assurances he will give on the future funding of regional tourism partnerships, following the end of the 2007/08 financial year.

(AQW 350/08)

Mr Dodds: The Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) is fully committed to regional development as outlined in the Strategic Framework for Action (2005 – 2008). Local delivery and development of visitor services and servicing is a key element of raising the profile of the tourism industry across Northern Ireland and providing visitors with the quality of services and facilities they want and need.

In the current financial year, £500,000 has been allocated from the agency’s core budget to Regional Tourism Partnerships (RTPs) to assist in the delivery of aspects of regional development. Any further bid for funding will be considered with other requests as part of the Comprehensive Spending Review.

Invest NI

Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of client companies that Invest NI has on its database.

(AQW 366/08)

Mr Dodds: On 25 September 2007, Invest NI had 2,509 businesses recorded as clients on its database.

Invest NI

Mr John McCallister asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of visits organised by Invest NI for inward investors in the South Down area, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 367/08)

Mr Dodds: From 2002/03 to 2006/07, the total number of inward visits to South Down in each year were as follows:

2002/03 – 2
2003/04 – 1
2004/05 – 0
2005/06 – 0
2006/07 – 2
Total visits – 5

The content of a visit programme, the locations chosen to visit and ultimately the investment decision rests solely with the prospective investor.

Invest NI

Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of (i) client executives; and (ii) staff, that are currently employed by Invest NI.

(AQW 368/08)

Mr Dodds: At 31 August 2007, Invest NI employed 590 staff (572 Full-Time Equivalent).

268 staff are in direct client-facing roles. This is made up of 165 client executives and 103 programme executives delivering specialist advice and programmes in areas of research and development, process and technology, trade and export promotion, and business improvement.

For completeness, of the remaining staff, 199 are engaged in activities with some client interfaces and/or providing support for client-facing activities, and 123 staff are in corporate services functions.

Invest NI

Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of staff currently employed by Invest NI, who are based overseas.

(AQW 369/08)

Mr Dodds: Invest NI employs twenty-five staff based in overseas offices (i.e. outside Northern Ireland). Seven of these staff are Invest NI employees recruited in Northern Ireland and temporarily relocated to the overseas offices to fulfil specific roles.

The other eighteen staff are locally engaged personnel, recruited on terms and conditions appropriate to the local market.

VAT-Registered Businesses

Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of VAT-registered businesses in Northern Ireland, broken down by district council area, in the last year.

(AQW 398/08)

Mr Dodds: The following table presents the latest available information (March 2007) regarding the number of VAT Registered businesses by district council in Northern Ireland.

Number of VAT Registered Businesses by District Council area

District Council Area	Number of VAT registered Businesses

Antrim	1,740
Ards	2,215
Armagh	2,795
Ballymena	2,410
Ballymoney	1,305
Banbridge	1,955
Belfast	6,365
Carrickfergus	565
Castlereagh	1,140
Coleraine	1,905
Cookstown	2,000
Craigavon	2,320
Derry	2,200
Down	2,445
Dungannon	2,925
Fermanagh	3,695
Larne	980
Limavady	1,195
Lisburn	3,195
Magherafelt	2,295
Moyle	765
Newry and Mourne	3,960
Newtownabbey	1,530
North Down	1,565
Omagh	2,900
Strabane	1,770

NORTHERN IRELAND	58,135

NOTE: All figures have been rounded to the nearest 5

Source: Inter Departmental Business Register, March 2007

Invest NI

Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of companies that have accessed Invest NI's website in the last year.

(AQW 399/08)

Mr Dodds: Since September 2006 to August 2007 there have been 160,596 visits to the Invest NI website which is an average of 13,383 per month. This represented 324,649 page views. It is not possible to identify individual companies as websites only record the digital footprint of those visiting.

Invest NI

Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of companies that have downloaded information from Invest NI's website in the last year.

(AQW 400/08)

Mr Dodds: It is not possible to identify individual companies downloading documents, as websites only record the digital footprint of those visiting. However, since an upgraded Webtrends package was introduced in May 2007, 9,104 Portable document format (PDFs) have been downloaded from the Invest NI website.

Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre

Mr Daithí McKay asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment if he will provide a comprehensive breakdown of how the £1.2 million expenditure to date, on the proposal for a publicly-funded Giant's Causeway Visitors' Centre, has been spent.

(AQW 425/08)

Mr Dodds: The Government proposal for a Visitor Centre at the Giant’s Causeway has incurred the following expenditure to date:

2003-04 £129k Options Appraisal of possible locations and scale of facilities.

2004-05 £156k Options Development including the competition briefs and legal structures.

2005-06 £151k Architectural and Interpretative Design Competitions.

2006- to date £756k Detailed Development of the architects winning design.

These total £1.192m. It would require some £1m further expenditure to bring the public sector proposal to contract stage

Environment

Sustainable Development - Resource Efficiency

Mr Pat Ramsey asked the Minister of the Environment to explain the variables and methodology used to assess the resource efficiency of the Northern Ireland economy, in relation to the resource efficiency target referred to in the Sustainable Development Strategy for Northern Ireland.

(AQW 121/08)

The Minister of the Environment (Mrs Foster): The resource efficiency target originated from the value calculated in the Northern Limits Report (NLR) published in February 2004. Among the variables considered were:

The material intensity of goods and services;
The energy intensity of goods and services;
Dispersion of toxic materials;
Durability and recyclability; and
Service intensity of goods and services

using the following calculation:

Resources remaining in the community = Resources consumed – waste

Resources consumed Resources consumed

The eco-efficiency of Northern Ireland was calculated at 65%. The strategy target was to improve this to 85% by 2025

Pollution Enforcement Cases

Mr Mervyn Storey asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of (i) private individuals; and (ii) businesses in Northern Ireland that have been prosecuted following incidents of pollution from (a) heating oil tanks; and (b) septic tanks; and the total amount paid in fines for each of these offences, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 124/08)

Mrs Foster: (a) The Department of the Environment does not hold statistics on pollution from heating oil tanks only ‘’oil pollution ‘’. Since 2001, the Department has taken 29 prosecutions for pollution incidents involving oil contamination by businesses. Fines totalling £31,050 have been imposed by the Courts in respect of 23 of those incidents. A further 3 incidents of oil contamination caused by private individuals have resulted in fines totalling £1,800.

(b) Since 2001, no cases have been taken against businesses in respect of septic tanks. One case has been taken against a private individual, for an incident involving pollution from a septic tank which resulted in a fine of £2000.

Fly Posting

Mr George Robinson asked the Minister of the Environment what plans she has to introduce legislation imposing stronger penalties for fly posting.

(AQW 133/08)

Mrs Foster: Fly-posting is one of a number of issues presently under consideration by my Department as part of our work to bring forward stronger and more effective legislation to improve local environmental quality. We are considering a number of options to allow more effective control of fly-posting. It is our intention to consult on specific proposals as soon as possible.

Planning Applications

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of the Environment if she will undertake to review the status given to planning applications in (i) the Newry and Mourne District Council area; and (ii) the Banbridge District Council area, that were lodged in the Craigavon Divisional Planning Office, prior to the first date when the term 'premature to the pending Area Plan' was given as the reason for refusal.

(AQW 144/08)

Mrs Foster: There is no reason at present why I should review the status of such applications. Prematurity in relation to the draft Area Plan is one of a number of material considerations to be assessed in arriving at a decision on an application. All applications are decided on their particular merits taking account of the nature of the development, planning policy, area plan designation and other considerations such as site characteristics, the relevant planning history, consultee advice, personal circumstances and any public representations. That said, Planning Service is currently holding applications which would otherwise be refused on the grounds of ‘prematurity’ following the recent judicial review judgement on the Strategic Environmental Assessment of other Area Plans. This is because there is a similar judicial review in relation to the draft Banbridge, Newry and Mourne Area Plan which will be heard in October 2007.

Dibney River

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment if she will carry out a survey of the Dibney River, to assess whether or not it has a high level of chemicals in the river and on the river-bed.

(AQW 151/08)

Mrs Foster: My Department’s Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) protects the aquatic environment through a variety of activities including targeted programmes to conduct water quality monitoring in waterways designated under the EC Freshwater Fish Directive (2006/44/EC). When I wrote to you about the Dibney River in July 2007, I advised you that this river does not have a large enough flow to be designated and monitored under this Directive. However I am pleased to confirm that it will be monitored chemically under the EC Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), commencing in 2008.

I aIso stated in my previous correspondence that, in a 1999 review of the river monitoring network, the Dibney River was investigated for inclusion in the freshwater biological river monitoring programme. For health and safety reasons related to sampling access, the river was not added to the monitoring programme at that time, and as a result has not been monitored biologically. This situation has been reassessed recently, and a sampling point has been identified where biological sampling will begin in 2008.

I am aware that Down District Council and the Dibney River Conservation Trust have also been corresponding with EHS. EHS staff would be happy to meet with those concerned to discuss these issues in more detail.

Beach Quality

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of the Environment what discussions she has had with her counterpart in the Republic of Ireland in relation to the development of a national standard of beach quality.

(AQW 164/08)

Mrs Foster: I have not held any discussions with my counterpart in the Republic of Ireland on this topic. A beach award scheme, the Blue Flag Award, which is recognised internationally, currently exists and is administered in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Written Driving Test

Mr Cathal Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment what plans she has to liaise with the Minister of Education to introduce the written driving test into post-primary schools.

(AQW 200/08)

Mrs Foster: While there are at present no plans to introduce the written driving test into post-primary schools, you may be interested to know that my Department currently offers a driver training scheme to pupils in post-primary schools and students in further education colleges aged 17 to 18 years of age. Pupils receive a series of 12 driving lessons from an approved driving instructor. The Department pays 50% of the cost of the lessons, with pupils sharing the remainder of the cost. In 2006/2007, 539 pupils from 76 schools participated in the scheme.

A number of post-primary schools also timetable Road Traffic Studies (RTS) while others provide Motor Vehicle and Road User Studies (MVRUS) at GCSE level. My Department’s Road Safety Education Officers actively promote the timetabling of these subjects and provide teacher training, teaching resources, advice and support. In 2007-08, around 175 schools will be timetabling RTS and 77 will be offering MVRUS.

Driving Lessons in Schools

Mr Cathal Boylan asked the Minister of the Environment what plans she has to liaise with the Minister of Education about the introduction of driving lessons into schools, in line with motorcycle lessons.

(AQW 201/08)

Mrs Foster: My Department does not provide or make provision for motorcycle lessons in schools. A number of post-primary schools timetable Road Traffic Studies (RTS), a non-examination subject, and practical skills training in moped riding can form part of that course. Practical moped skills training is also one of the elements of the GCSE subject Motor Vehicle and Road User Studies (MVRUS). My Department’s Road Safety Education Officers actively promote the timetabling of these subjects and provide teacher training, teaching resources (including a moped), advice and support. In 2007-08, around 175 schools will be timetabling RTS and of these 77 will be offering MVRUS. Off-road practical skills training is delivered by the teacher, usually in the school playground. This provides a basic introduction to road craft and is quite different from on-road motorcycle lessons provided by an approved instructor.

For several years my Department has been offering a driver training scheme to pupils in post-primary schools and students in further education colleges aged 17 to 18 years, with the agreement of the Department of Education and the Education and Library Boards. Pairs of pupils receive a series of 12 on-road driving lessons from an approved driving instructor. My Department pays 50% of the cost of the lessons and pupils pay the remainder. In 2006-07, 539 pupils from 76 schools participated in the scheme.

Recycling

Mr Willie Clarke asked the Minister of the Environment to provide details on (a) the amounts of paper/card and plastics that are being recycled for (i) 2005; (ii) 2006; and (iii) 2007; and (b) where these materials are being recycled.

(AQW 228/08)

Mrs Foster: These details are recorded on a financial, rather than calendar, year basis. In 2004/05, 23,906 tonnes of paper and card and 1,712 tonnes of plastic were recycled. These figures rose to 65,568 tonnes for paper/card and 7,666 tonnes for plastic in 2005/06. The figures for 2006/2007 will be published later this year.

These materials are being recycled at a range of waste management facilities in the UK and beyond.

Environmental Protection Agency

Mr Brian Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment what is her assessment of Mr Justice Gillen's judgement of 7 September 2007, which indicated that there should be a separation between the Planning Service and Environment and Heritage Service; and of whether or not this would be resolved by the establishment of an independent Environmental Protection Agency.

(AQW 234/08)

Mrs Foster: I note the ruling handed down by the court in respect of the Judicial Review of Strategic Environmental Assessments for the Draft Northern Area Plan and the Draft Magherafelt Area Plan. I will take time to carefully consider the judgment and its implications in consultation with our legal advisors.

Review of Planning Policy Statements

Mr Paul Butler asked the Minister of the Environment if she will carry out a review of Planning Policy Statements relating to developments in existing urban areas, in light of the increase in planning applications for apartments.

(AQW 237/08)

Mrs Foster: Strategic planning guidance in respect of housing development in urban areas is set out in the Regional Development Strategy and Planning Policy Statement 12 ‘Housing in Settlements’. Your question has been passed to me to answer.

Existing policy provisions related to the intensification of development within an existing residential area are currently being considered by a joint DRD and DOE group of officials.

In the meantime the Minister for the Environment has asked all Planning Service staff to be reminded of the need to consider fully the impact on the established residential character when processing applications for new residential development. This was done in August 2007.

Dog Fouling

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of incidences of dog fouling, and the resulting number of prosecutions, broken down by district council area, in each of the last two years.

(AQW 244/08)

Mrs Foster: My Department does not hold information on the number of incidences of dog fouling. However, information in relation to the number of Fixed Penalty Notices issued and the number of prosecutions taken in relation to dog fouling in each of the last two years is set out in the table below:

Council	No. of Fixed Penalty Notices issued for dog fouling		No. of Prosecutions for dog fouling
Council	01/04/05 to 31/03/06	01/04/06 to 31/03/07	01/04/05 to 31/03/06	01/04/06 to 31/03/07
Antrim BC	2	1	0	0
Ards BC	14	5	0	0
Armagh City & DC	0	0	0	0
Ballymena BC	2	3	0	0
Ballymoney BC	0	0	0	0
Banbridge DC	0	2	0	0
Belfast CC	234	143	18	25
Carrickfergus BC	1	4	0	0
Castlereagh BC	3	2	0	0
Coleraine BC	10	10	1	0
Cookstown DC	1	0	0	0
Craigavon BC	5*	9	1*	0
Derry CC	0	0	0	0
Down DC	6	4	1	1
Dungannon & South Tyrone BC	0*	0	0*	0
Fermanagh DC	0	0	0	0
Larne BC	10	14	0	2
Limavady BC	2	0	0	0
Lisburn CC	2	1	0	0
Magherafelt DC	0	4	0	0
Moyle DC	1	0	0	0
Newry & Mourne DC	0	0	0	0
Newtownabbey BC	7	90	1	6
North Down BC	14	6	0	0
Omagh DC	0	0	14	0
Strabane DC	0	0	0	0
Totals	314	298	36	34
* Figures for period 01/11/05 to 31/03/06 only.

Planning Application Fees

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the fees received in respect of planning applications for the Newry and Mourne District Council area, that included in the refusal documentation a reference to, (i) the regulations pertaining to Planning Policy Statement 14: Sustainable Development in the Countryside; or (ii) being premature to the outcome of the pending Banbridge and Newry and Mourne Area Plan 2015.

(AQW 251/08)

Mrs Foster: The total fees paid for applications in the Newry and Mourne Area where draft PPS14 was a reason for refusal were £3,000. I regret that at present I do not have a figure for the planning fees paid in respect of planning applications where prematurity was a reason for refusal due to the larger number of cases affected. It is considered that the time and staff resources involved in obtaining from Planning Service records the information requested by you on prematurity would result in disproportionate costs for the Planning Service.

Review of Public Administration

Mr Patsy McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment to advise on the progress towards ensuring that new development plans are prepared using boundaries 'co-terminus' with the proposals emanating from the Review of Public Administration.

(AQW 252/08)

Mrs Foster: As you are aware, I am at present conducting a review on the future shape of local government in Northern Ireland. In taking the review forward, consideration will be given to what local government is expected to deliver in the context of a fully-functioning devolved Assembly and Executive and, in the context of the strategic direction of the RPA, to consider the number of councils and functions that would be required. As part of my deliberations on this I am considering the role of planning and where it sits within this, including the function of producing development plans. An announcement will be made on the outcome of the review later this year.

Planning Applications

Mr Patsy McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of planning applications for housing that have been in the system, undetermined, for more than the 17 week target period set for such applications.

(AQW 254/08)

Mrs Foster: The Department’s Public Service Agreement target relating to application processing times changed with effect from 1 April 2006 and is now as follows:

‘By 31 March 2008 to improve the time taken to process planning applications to decision or withdrawal against 2004/05 performance, as follows:

- 60% of Major Applications processed in 23 weeks (25 weeks 2004/05) – an 8% improvement);

- 70% of Intermediate Applications processed in 31 weeks (33 weeks 2004/05) – a 6% improvement;

- 80% of Minor Applications processed in 18 weeks (21 weeks 2004/05) – a 14% improvement.

Housing applications may be classified as major or intermediate. Applications for single houses including those in rural areas are classed as intermediate, while other housing proposals including housing developments in urban areas are classed as major.

At 17 September 2007, the number of applications for housing in the intermediate category which had been outstanding for more than 31 weeks was 3,145. The number of applications for housing in the major category which had been outstanding for more than 23 weeks was 2,474.

Grouse Numbers

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment if her department has carried out a count of grouse on the moors in Northern Ireland; and, if so, to detail the results.

(AQW 255/08)

Mrs Foster: A survey of all habitats in Northern Ireland suitable for Red Grouse was carried out in 2003/4. The results estimated the population to be between 202 and 220 breeding pairs. The full report of the survey can be found at www.ehsni.gov.uk/redgrousesurvey

I have no plans to replenish Northern Ireland’s grouse moors with imported birds; however, a Species Action Plan (SAP) for Red Grouse is being produced and will be published in 2008.

Shortly after its publication, a Steering Group of delegates from Government and non-governmental organisations will be set up to take the SAP forward. This Group will consider the various options for increasing the Red Grouse population in Northern Ireland.

Christmas lights on the Windows of Vehicles

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment what action she is taking to address the use of Christmas lights on the windows of vehicles.

(AQW 256/08)

Mrs Foster: I have no plans to introduce legislation to prohibit the use of Christmas lights on the windows of vehicles or to undertake a campaign to discourage their use. My Department’s policy is to contribute to casualty reduction by organising advertising and information campaigns to address the main causes of road traffic deaths and serious injuries. There is no indication from data provided by the PSNI that the use of Christmas lights on the windows of vehicles is a key factor in road traffic collisions.

The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations (NI) 2000 stipulate the lighting requirements on vehicles in terms of front, rear and side lamps, reflectors, rear markings and devices etc. They do not deal specifically with lights fitted to vehicle windows. Regulation 30 prohibits the use of lamps that would cause undue dazzle or discomfort to other persons using the road.

Regulation 120 of the Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations (NI) 1999 prohibits a person from driving, causing or permitting any other person to drive, a motor vehicle on a road if he is in such a position that he cannot have proper control of the vehicle or have a full view of the road and traffic ahead.

Enforcement of these regulations is a matter for the PSNI.

Grouse Numbers

Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of the Environment what plans she has to replenish the grouse moors of Northern Ireland with grouse from Scotland or elsewhere.

(AQW 257/08)

I have no plans to replenish Northern Ireland’s grouse moors with imported birds; however, a Species Action Plan (SAP) for Red Grouse is being produced and will be published in 2008.

Planning Applications

Mr Tom Elliott asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of planning applications in the Fermanagh area that were recommended for approval by the case officer, but subsequently recommended for refusal by the internal planning group of the Divisional Planning Office in that area, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 263/08)

Mrs Foster: The formation of a development control group opinion which is contrary to the initial recommendation of the case officer is not an unusual occurrence. The 3 members of the development control group, which always includes an authorised officer at senior or principal planner level, collectively contribute a greater degree of experience of policy and practice which is influential in reaching a corporate view.

The number of planning applications in the Fermanagh area that were recommended for approval by the case officer but subsequently recommended for refusal by the development control group of the Divisional Planning Office in that area in each of the last five years are as follows:

Case Officer Refusals for Fermanagh
Year Application Received	No. of Case Officer Approvals	No. of subsequent Refusals by DC Group
2002	1098	56
2003	1409	51
2004	1769	209
2005	1850	237
2006	1444	83
2007 YTD	557	9

Source: MVM 2020 Planner

These figures have been extracted from a live dataset which is continuously updated and validated. They should therefore be regarded as indicative only at this point in time and should not be compared with any previous figures published by the Agency.

Development Plan Process

Mr Patsy McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment, in light of increased land costs and affordability issues, what steps he will take to speed up the development plan process to ensure the availability of land for development.

(AQW 270/08)

Mrs Foster: Affordable housing issues and the recommendations for their resolution as set out in the Semple Review Report are being taken forward by a DSD-led Inter-Departmental Affordability Implementation Group chaired by the DSD Minister, Margaret Ritchie. The Department and Planning Service are represented on this Group.

There are a variety of factors contributing to rising land costs and affordability and the availability of housing land. Many of these factors are outside the direct control of the planning system and they are not solely the product of a slow development plan process or land supply issues.

While there already exists at least a five year supply of housing land in each District Council Area of Northern Ireland, the key issue is how this existing supply of land is made available for development.

With regard specifically to the development plan process, I am presently considering further reform of the planning system to identify areas where improvements may be made and this includes speeding up the plan-making process.

Town Centre Living Initiative

Mr Patsy McGlone asked the Minister of the Environment to detail (a) the number of Town Centre Living Initiative applications made to Planning Service in the Cookstown area; and (b) the status of these applications, given previous agreement by Planning Service to prioritise such applications.

(AQW 274/08)

Mrs Foster: Planning Service received 4 applications for developments in association with the Cookstown Town Centre Living Initiative / Living Over The Shops (LOTS) Initiative. Two of the applications submitted affect listed buildings and were accompanied by applications for listed building consent.

All the applications submitted were prioritised by Planning Service. The two applications affecting the listed buildings are still under consideration. Planning Service is currently liaising between the agent and EHS Protecting Historic Buildings on further information required.

Friday 28 September 2007

Written Answers to Questions

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