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 14 March 2008
Written Answers to Questions
Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister
Agriculture and Rural Development
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Education
Employment and Learning
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Environment
Finance and Personnel
Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Regional Development
Social Development
Corrigenda
OFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER
Maze Site
Mr D McNarry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to give a timescale within which it will finalise plans for the development of the Maze site; and to provide a progress update on outcomes achieved to date.
(AQW 2829/08)
The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness): The competitive dialogue bidding process for the appointment of a private sector development consortium to regenerate the site in accordance with the vision set out in the unanimous report of the Maze Consultation Panel in 2005 and the Maze/Long Kesh Masterplan published in 2006, has not yet been concluded. Officials in DFP are currently examining both the value for money business case and the potential affordability.
Demolition works are currently underway across much of the site and should be completed within the next few months. Remediation works to remove lead contamination and fuel oil spillage are about to start. Preliminary design work has been done preparatory to any decision that may be made to develop the site in accordance with the outcome of the bidding process.
Policing and Justice Powers
Mr D McClarty asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any discussions it has had with the Northern Ireland Office, on the proposed transfer of Policing and Justice powers.
(AQW 3005/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The devolution of policing and justice is currently a matter for consideration by the Assembly, which is required to report to the Secretary of State by 27 March 2008. Officials from OFMDFM and other relevant Departments are considering with NIO the full range of implications of the devolution of policing and justice to the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Pension Provision
Dr S Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide an update on the representations it has made in relation to the pension provision for former members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary Part Time Reserve, arising out of the debate in the Assembly on 26 June 2007.
(AQW 3170/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We refer the Member to our previous response to Mr David McNarry – Written answers to questions, Friday 18 January, Page WA231, AQW 2358/08.
Representation has been made to the NIO. We continue to await a response.
Sustainable Development
Mr D McKay asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to confirm whether or not the responsibility for sustainable development will be given to an individual Minister.
(AQW 3491/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Responsibility for cross-government strategic oversight of sustainable development was transferred from the DOE to OFMDFM following the publication of the Sustainable Development Strategy in May 2006. This was intended to move sustainable development closer to the ‘heart of government’.
OFMDFM has, since then, led work across Departments on implementation of the Strategy. There are currently no plans to change these arrangements.
Poverty Action Plan
Ms M Anderson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what plans it has to produce an action plan to deliver on the commitment 'to tackle poverty, social exclusion and patterns of deprivation based on objective need'; and to outline how it intends to develop and consult on this matter.
(AQW 3594/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Following consultation with the OFMDFM Committee, the Executive will shortly consider proposals on the adoption of a strategy to tackle poverty, social exclusion and patterns of deprivation based on objective need and the underlying principles outlined in the current strategy ‘Lifetime Opportunities’. In adopting its strategy, the Executive will also consider those actions needed to deliver agreed targets and goals and how best to measure progress. These considerations will include an assessment of proposed associated objectives, goals and targets as well as those actions.
Child Poverty
Mrs C McGill asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the current targets for the eradication of child poverty.
(AQO 2236/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Northern Ireland Executive is fully committed to tackling child poverty here.
This commitment is clearly outlined in our Programme for Government document (PSA 7) which includes commitments to:
- reduce by 50% the number of children living in poverty; and
- work towards the elimination of severe child poverty by 2012.
We fully recognise the challenging nature of these commitments, and meeting these will be difficult and will require co-ordinated action across all Departments.
There is an onus on this administration, therefore, to build on the benefits that have already accrued from UK-wide policies such as tax credits, etc. This can be achieved by way of all Government Departments targeting resources at areas where most impact can be achieved.
The Executive Committee will shortly consider proposals in respect of its statutory obligation to adopt a strategy which sets out how it proposes to tackle poverty, social exclusion and patterns of deprivation here based on objective need.
That consideration will include the assessment of existing targets and the need to develop new short/medium term targets which could contribute to our major child poverty commitments.
Victims' and Survivors' Commission
Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide a timescale within which legislation for the Victims' and Survivors' Commission will be introduced.
(AQW 4330/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Drafting of legislation to provide for the Victims and Survivors Commission is at an advanced stage and we hope to introduce a Bill in the very near future.
Planning Appeals Commission
Miss M McIlveen asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what assessment it has made of the reasons for the increase in the number of appeals lodged with the Planning Appeals Commission, in relation to the Ards Borough Council area, from April 2006.
(AQW 4449/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Planning Appeals Commission is a tribunal Non-Departmental Public Body. Given its independent tribunal status it is appropriate for its Chief Commissioner to provide a response directly to you, and we understand she has written to you in the following terms:
"The increase in the number of appeals lodged with the Planning Appeals Commission in relation to the Ards Borough Council area, is a result of the high volume of planning applications submitted to Planning Service in early 2006."
OFMDFM is aware of the general build-up of appeals in the Planning Appeals Commission and is fully committed to providing it with the resources required to address the backlog. The additional funding allocations for PAC in the Budget 2008-2011 will provide the Chief Commissioner with the funding certainty to enable her to recruit additional commissioners. This additional funding has the potential to fund a significant number of additional commissioners, although the actual number to be appointed will be for the Chief Commissioner to determine, taking account of the Commission’s capacity to manage a greatly increased complement and also subject to the availability of suitable people from within a limited and specialised market. Arrangements are already under way to deliver a competition for commissioners.
Press Officers
Mr P Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the number of press officers that are employed by his department.
(AQW 4533/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: There are currently nine Press Officers employed within the department, who provide support to the First Minister, deputy First Minister, Junior Ministers and departmental officials on core press office activity. A number of the press officers also provide media planning support to the other 10 departments. The Director and Deputy Director of the Executive Information Service also provide input as part of their cross departmental responsibility.
Maze Site
Mr M Storey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to the answer to AQW 3072/08, to confirm that any future development of the Maze site will require Executive approval.
(AQW 4562/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: As indicated in response to AQW 3072/08, the development of the Maze / Long Kesh site will not proceed without Executive agreement.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
European Fisheries Fund
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail (i) the amount of funding that has been allocated by the European Fisheries Fund; (ii) the timescale in which the funding will be made available; (iii) the recipients of the funding; (iv) the proportion of the funding that will be given to the fishing sector and processing sector; and to confirm whether fishing vessels under 10 metres will be included in the scheme.
(AQW 4378/08)
- The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): The amount allocated for the NI Fishing industry is €18.1m euro which will be match funded by my Department.
- The EFF operational programme is being prepared by Defra on behalf of the 4 fisheries administrations. It is anticipated that this will be approved by the European Commission in July. The EFF will be open to applications shortly after the operational programme is approved and the scheme will run until 2013.
- Funding will be available for all sectors – sea and inland fisheries, aquaculture businesses, producer organisations, processing and marketing businesses - as well as for fisheries community areas. Some of the initiatives will require EU and national grant to be supplemented by private sector investment.
- My Departments proposals for financial support for the fishing industry will be contained in its European Fisheries Fund Investment Plan which will detail the proposed spending priorities across the different sectors. Funding will be available to fishing vessels under 10 metres. The document will issue for public consultation on at the end of April. This coincides with the launch of similar documents in England, Scotland and Wales.
Forest Service
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline her priorities for the Forest Service; and what her assessment is of whether or not increased recreational activity should be encouraged in forests.
(AQW 4408/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My priorities for forestry in Northern Ireland are set out in the Forestry Strategy, published in March 2006. These are:
A programme of afforestation, with the long term goal of doubling the area of forest, from 6% to 12%; and
Sustainable management of our existing woods and forests, taking account of economic, environmental and social use requirements.
The forestry strategy also recognises the need to facilitate recreation in forests. The North’s forests offer great opportunity for social use, attracting over two million public visits annually. They are, therefore, a valuable recreation resource. I want to realise the potential of our forests, as far as possible, whilst protecting the natural forest environment. My officials in Forest Service will be producing a recreation strategy during the next business year, to set out a clear policy on recreation and a framework for recreation provision.
Sea Fishing Training
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the financial assistance for sea fishing training, that has been allocated for (i) 2007-2008; (ii) 2008-2009; and (iii) 2009-2010.
(AQW 4430/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My Department provided the Sea Fish Industry Training Association (NI) Ltd with the following funds for sea fishing training projects in 2007/08.
- £3.5k for the completion of an Industry Skills Audit for the Fishing Industry
- £17k for Enhanced Safety Training - provision of training courses in (non-statutory) skills in Engine Room Watch-keeping, Fire-fighting and Bridge Watch-Keeping
- £10k for new IT equipment for the provision of training courses at NI ports (mobile facilities)
- £33k for bursaries for fishermen to secure accredited qualifications e.g. skipper, deckhand and engineering qualifications (to cover the cost of classes, examinations, travel and subsistence)
The take up of training opportunities was variable and in some cases disappointing. The following projects have therefore been carried forward into 2008/09 with the financial provision as indicated.
- £7k for enhanced safety training
- £33k for training bursaries
As yet there have been no further financial allocations for 2008/09 and 2009/10, however a full range of training opportunities for all sectors of the fishing industry will be provided under the European Fisheries Fund which will be open to applications later in the year.
With regard to my plans for "replacing sea fishing training when it ends" I refer to my answer to your question AQW 2562/08 which explained that there is a change of approach to funding such training by the Sea Fish Industry Authority (Seafish). From this you will be aware that funding is not going to end. Furthermore my Department will continue to invest in training for the industry to enhance operational skills and contribute to the further development of a safety culture in the industry.
Agricultural and Land Skills
Mr A Bresland asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to provide an update on the progress made in relation to the development of agricultural and land based skills in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 4466/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) is responsible for the delivery of education and training programmes to develop the skills and competences of those entering or already working in the agri-food industry. For those entering the agricultural and landbased industries CAFRE provides a suite of Further and Higher education programmes ranging from NVQ level 2 (Craft level) to honours degree. In each of the last three years enrolments onto these programmes are as follows: -
- 2004/05 – 1319 students;
- 2005/06 – 1336 students;
- 2006/07 – 1332 students.
Final enrolment numbers for the 07/08 academic year are not yet available.
CAFRE also provides a comprehensive suite of industry training programmes for those already working in the industry. These programmes cover a number of areas and include practical skills training, technical knowledge development and business management skills development. In each of the last three years the number of participants on these programmes were: -
- 2004/05 – 16,800
- 2005/06 – 8,315
- 2006/07 – 13,160
The Further and Higher education programmes and many of the industry training programmes provide participants with the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised qualification at level 2 or above. During the period 2004/05 – 2006/07 6,700 participants gained qualifications.
Sea Fishing Training
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the plans she has to replace sea fishing training when it ends.
(AQW 4476/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My Department provided the Sea Fish Industry Training Association (NI) Ltd with the following funds for sea fishing training projects in 2007/08.
- £3.5k for the completion of an Industry Skills Audit for the Fishing Industry
- £17k for Enhanced Safety Training - provision of training courses in (non-statutory) skills in Engine Room Watch-keeping, Fire-fighting and Bridge Watch-Keeping
- £10k for new IT equipment for the provision of training courses at NI ports (mobile facilities)
- £33k for bursaries for fishermen to secure accredited qualifications e.g. skipper, deckhand and engineering qualifications (to cover the cost of classes, examinations, travel and subsistence)
The take up of training opportunities was variable and in some cases disappointing. The following projects have therefore been carried forward into 2008/09 with the financial provision as indicated.
- £7k for enhanced safety training
- £33k for training bursaries
As yet there have been no further financial allocations for 2008/09 and 2009/10, however a full range of training opportunities for all sectors of the fishing industry will be provided under the European Fisheries Fund which will be open to applications later in the year.
With regard to my plans for "replacing sea fishing training when it ends" I refer to my answer to your question AQW 2562/08 which explained that there is a change of approach to funding such training by the Sea Fish Industry Authority (Seafish). From this you will be aware that funding is not going to end. Furthermore my Department will continue to invest in training for the industry to enhance operational skills and contribute to the further development of a safety culture in the industry.
Fishing Regulations
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail, in relation to contraventions of fishing regulations (i) her proposals for on-the-spot penalties; (ii) the date on which any such penalties will be introduced; and (iii) the proposed consultation process that will take place.
(AQW 4477/08)
Ms M Gildernew: (i) DARD along with the Fisheries Administrations in England, Scotland and Wales are currently consulting on a system of Financial Administrative Penalties (FAP) for fisheries offences. Under the proposed system a fisherman may be offered a FAP as an alternative to a criminal prosecution. The fisherman may decline the offer and have his case heard by the courts as at present.
The system has several potential benefits to fishermen including savings in time, cost and anxiety compared to court proceedings, and the avoidance of a criminal record.
(ii) Subject to the outcome of the consultation process it is hoped to introduce an administrative system for dealing with offences under common fisheries policy legislation in early 2009.
(iii) The proposals have been developed with the involvement of fishing industry representatives from each of the regions over the last eighteen months and a formal consultation on these on these proposals was launched on 2nd January 2008. The consultation closes on 25 March 2008.
Press Officers
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of press officers that are employed by her department.
(AQW 4534/08)
Ms M Gildernew: There are currently five Press Officers employed within the department, who provide support to the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development and departmental officials on core press office activity.
Omagh Livestock Mart
Mr T Buchanan asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail (i) any investment, including I.T. equipment, made in Omagh livestock mart over the last six months; and (ii) the date and cost of each investment.
(AQW 4551/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The Department has not made any investments in Omagh livestock mart in the last 6 months. The Department replaced 3 PCs and monitors in February 2008 at a cost of £1,344 for use by its own staff in Sheep Movement Recording. This equipment will be withdrawn later this year as DARD staff leave the market.
Wild Animals in Circuses
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail her plans to ban the use of wild animals in circuses.
(AQW 4574/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My Department’s role in circuses is currently very limited. Part III of the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 1972 protects all animals from unnecessary cruelty or suffering. There are, however, no specific provisions on the welfare of animals in circuses.
The Department did consult on proposals for new animal welfare legislation in 2006, including on the need for regulation of circuses. I have asked my officials to finalise a paper summarising the responses to this consultation, after which I will decide what new legislation is required.
As many of the circuses that operate here are based in the South, it is important that I take note of the position in that jurisdiction in considering this issue. I have therefore asked that my officials liaise closely with their counterparts in the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, who are currently drafting new animal welfare legislation.
Animal Welfare Bill
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail any plans to introduce an Animal Welfare Bill.
(AQW 4578/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The Department consulted on proposals for new animal welfare legislation in late 2006. As the 2006 consultation was carried out under a different administration I will want to take time to consider responses and if appropriate to engage with those who responded.
I have asked my officials to finalise a report which will summarise the outcome of the responses to the consultation, after which I will decide what new legislation is required. The specific provisions of any new legislation will depend on detailed consideration of these consultation responses.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF) in the South is currently considering updating its animal welfare legislation. I believe that it is important that we take similar approaches to dealing with animal welfare abuses on the island of Ireland. I have therefore asked that my officials liaise closely with their counterparts in DAFF. I understand that DAFF intend to publish their legislative proposals after Easter and I will wish to consider these in the first instance.
Single Farm Payment Appeals
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of (i) Single Farm Payment Appeals that have been heard to date; and (ii) successful Single Farm Payment Appeals, since the inception of the Single Farm Payment Scheme.
(AQW 4623/08)
- Ms M Gildernew: To date the External Panel has heard 293 requests for a review of the Department’s decision on Single Farm Payment related issues.
- The Panel agreed with the Department’s decision in 221 cases. The Panel did not agree with the Department’s decision in 68 cases and in 4 cases it did not make a recommendation.
The Minister accepted 206 Panel recommendations and rejected 25. Of the 25 recommendations rejected, the Minister changed the Department’s decision in part, for 8 cases. The remaining 62 cases are either recently heard (not yet processed) or are held pending the outcome of legal proceedings which may impact on the final decision.
Loughry College
Mr I McCrea asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to her answer to AQO 2360/08, to detail the reasons why the communications course has not been included in this year's prospectus for Loughry College.
(AQW 4881/08)
Ms M Gildernew: On an annual basis CAFRE produces two prospectuses; one covering FE programmes and one covering HE programmes. These prospectuses include courses delivered at the three CAFRE Campuses of Enniskillen, Loughry and Greenmount.
The Communications courses are included in the current CAFRE HE prospectus which has just been released. You are aware of the current debate about the future of the Communications courses. No final decision has been made.
CULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE
Sports Clubs
Mr A Ross asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the amount of funding granted to sports clubs by Sport NI in each of the last 5 years, broken down by parliamentary constituency.
(AQW 3606/08)
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr E Poots): I am aware that this Question was due for Answer on 19 February 2008 and I apologise to the Member for the delay.
The table below details the total amount of exchequer and lottery funding granted to sports clubs by Sport Northern Ireland in each of the last 5 financial years, broken down by parliamentary constituency.
Exchequer and Lottery Funding to Sports Clubs by Constituency
2003/04 |
2004/05 |
2005/06 |
2006/07 |
2007/08 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belfast East | - |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Belfast North | - |
217,997 |
- |
- |
800,000 |
| Belfast South | - |
161,770 |
161,770 |
- |
- |
| Belfast West | - |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| East Antrim | - |
17,633 |
- |
- |
949,500 |
| East Londonderry | 235,000 |
100,000 |
- |
- |
85,000 |
| Fermanagh & S Tyrone | 300,331 |
- |
- |
- |
220,000 |
| Foyle | 140,000 |
- |
225,000 |
- |
238,274 |
| Lagan Valley | 6,680 |
470,000 |
- |
139,531 |
- |
| Mid Ulster | 270,140 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
| Newry & Armagh | 310,041 |
64,850 |
- |
- |
200,000 |
| North Antrim | 165,603 |
- |
- |
161,636 |
- |
| North Down | 81,225 |
- |
- |
- |
460,000 |
| South Antrim | 287,276 |
- |
- |
- |
240,000 |
| Strangford | 70,000 |
75,000 |
- |
- |
- |
| Upper Bann | - |
- |
- |
- |
800,000 |
| West Tyrone | 169,593 |
170,643 |
- |
- |
1,695,694 |
| South Down | 320,762 |
180,000 |
108,183 |
- |
- |
Bamford Report
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the action he has taken to address the issues relevant to his department contained in the Bamford Report.
(AQW 4346/08)
Mr E Poots: DCAL recognises the significant role the Arts, Culture and Sport play in supporting people of all ages with mental health and learning disabilities subject to budgetary considerations. DCAL continues to maintain and develop policies and programmes consistent with the Bamford Review and Investment for Health Strategies. This commitment is demonstrated in DCAL funding of Creative Learning Centres, Disability Sports NI through Sport NI and Museums and Libraries initiatives.
Chinese Olympics in 2008
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what plans he has to send ministerial or civil servant delegations to all, or part of, the Chinese Olympics in 2008.
(AQW 4432/08)
Mr E Poots: The Olympic Games taking place in Beijing later this year provide a unique opportunity to promote Northern Ireland at a major international event, and are especially important in advance of the London 2012 Games, when we are seeking to maximise the benefits for the province.
No arrangements are yet in place, but consideration is being given to attending the games and how best Northern Ireland can be represented on this important world stage.
Indigenous Minority Languages
Mr N McCausland asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to provide an update on the progress made by the British-Irish Council in relation to indigenous minority languages.
(AQW 4493/08)
Mr E Poots: Officials from my Department have continued to attend meetings of the subgroup on minority and lesser spoken languages. Since the last Ministerial meeting of the language sub-group in October 2006, prior to Northern Ireland’s return to devolution, progress has been made in discussing language provision in Adult Education, culminating in a two-day practitioners conference on the matter held in Cardiff in January 2008. Several members of the Adult Education Sector here in Northern Ireland attended and reported positively on the benefits of the seminar. A conference report has yet to be agreed by the group.
The group have also made progress in relation to sharing guidelines drawn up by the Welsh Language Board in relation to bilingual software.
Work remains ongoing on subgroups to discuss Information and Communication Technology, Planning and Linguistic Considerations and Data research and language use survey considerations. Officials are currently examining areas for further cooperation for discussion at their next meeting in March 2008.
Lough Neagh Fisherman's Association
Mr J Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the funding his department will allocate to the Lough Neagh Fisherman's Association for eels and elvers, in the 2008-09 financial year.
(AQW 4510/08)
Mr E Poots: My Department is in discussion with the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development regarding the European Fisheries Fund 2007 - 2013, which can be used to grant aid the purchase of elvers for conservation purposes. It is hoped that this fund may be used to provide funding for the stocking of elvers to Lough Neagh.
My Department has also allocated £60,000 for 2008/ 2009 for an Agri-Food and Bio Sciences scientist to continue work at Lough Neagh. His research aims to support a viable and sustainable fishery for Lough Neagh Fisherman's Association members in the context of the EU conservation regulations.
Press Officers
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the number of press officers that are employed by his department.
(AQW 4532/08)
Mr E Poots: My Department currently employs 3 Press Officers.
Maze Site
Mr D McNarry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to confirm whether the proposed conflict transformation centre at the Maze site will have functions other than that of a museum; and to detail who will administer these functions according to the terms of the proposed business plan.
(AQW 4547/08)
Mr E Poots: In the UK the commonly accepted definition of a museum is that adopted by the Museums Association in 1998 which says that, "Museums enable people to explore collections for inspiration, learning and enjoyment. They are institutions that collect, safeguard and make accessible artefacts and specimens which they hold in trust for society."
The International Centre for Conflict Transformation (ICCT) is not the responsibility of my Department.
Conflict Transformation Centre
Mr D McNarry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail how his department officially defines a museum; and to detail how the proposed conflict transformation centre meets this definition.
(AQW 4549/08)
Mr E Poots: In the UK the commonly accepted definition of a museum is that adopted by the Museums Association in 1998 which says that, "Museums enable people to explore collections for inspiration, learning and enjoyment. They are institutions that collect, safeguard and make accessible artefacts and specimens which they hold in trust for society."
The International Centre for Conflict Transformation (ICCT) is not the responsibility of my Department.
Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what consideration he has given to funding of the Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra.
(AQW 4575/08)
Mr E Poots: The Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure does not fund organisations directly. Any application for funding should be made to the Arts Council of Northern Ireland or the Ulster-Scots Agency.
Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to give his assessment of the contribution of the Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra.
(AQW 4576/08)
Mr E Poots: The Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure does not fund the Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra directly and, therefore, it is not appropriate for me to assess the contribution of the organisation.
The Orchestra receives funding from the Ulster-Scots Agency, which is of the view that it provides a worthwhile service to the community through its active promotion of Ulster-Scots music, dance and cultural traditions. In particular, the Ulster-Scots Agency has advised that the Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra has been of particular benefit to the schools it has been working with.
Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra
Mr P Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail, by financial year, the amount of funding awarded to the Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra.
(AQW 4577/08)
Mr E Poots: The Ulster-Scots Folk Orchestra has received funding from both the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and the Ulster-Scots Agency. Details of the amounts awarded since 2003 are shown in the table below:
Arts Council of Northern Ireland
| Financial Year | Amount awarded (£) | Programme |
|---|---|---|
| 2003/04 | 51,000 | 3 year Lottery access award |
Ulster-Scots Agency
| Year | Amount awarded (£) | Programme |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 531 | Financial Assistance Scheme |
| 2004 | 3,500 | Financial Assistance Scheme |
| 1,000 | Sponsorship funding | |
| 2005 | 177.90 | Financial Assistance Scheme |
| 1,951 | Financial Assistance Scheme | |
| 2006 | 4,228 | Financial Assistance Scheme |
| 2007 | 3,500 | Financial Assistance Scheme |
| 2,500 | Financial Assistance Scheme |
Stadium Improvements
Lord Browne asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the criteria that soccer clubs have to meet in order to obtain funding for stadium improvements.
(AQW 4670/08)
Mr E Poots: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. SNI operates a number of capital funding programmes available for stadium improvements to which soccer clubs may apply. In order to obtain funding, clubs must demonstrate to SNI that their projects can satisfy the following criteria:
- benefits sport and the inhabitants of Northern Ireland;
- financial need;
- viability;
- additionality; and
- security of tenure
In addition, applications must be for capital projects, from properly constituted organisations with no outstanding issues relating to non-compliance with the conditions associated with any previous SNI award.
Mr Sid Millar
Mr J Spratt asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the consideration he has given to recognising the contribution made to rugby by Mr Sid Millar.
(AQW 4810/08)
Mr E Poots: I intend to host a reception at Hillsborough Castle to recognise Dr Syd Millar’s considerable contribution to rugby.
Road Bowls
Mr C Boylan asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the funding that is available to promote and support the sport of road bowls in Co Armagh.
(AQW 4891/08)
Mr E Poots: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. SNI has not received any applications for funding from the sport of road bowls and has not provided funding to promote and support the sport in Co Armagh.
EDUCATION
Payment of Teachers
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of Education to detail the consultation that took place, particularly with the teachers' unions, before the decision to end the payment of teachers' added years was taken.
(AQW 3489/08)
The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane): No decision has been taken to end the payment of added years: the decision to credit a teacher with additional service remains discretionary. However, in future those who decide to award added years will be accountable for the decision and for the associated costs, as provided for in the Teachers’ (Compensation for Redundancy and Premature Retirement) Regulations (NI) 1991 (as amended).
The Teachers’ Superannuation Consultative Committee here is the established forum for consultation on matters relating to the Teachers’ Pensions Scheme. Members of the Committee were first made aware in February 2006 that action was required to control the escalating costs of the Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme (PRCS). PRCS was included on the agenda and discussed at subsequent meetings of the Committee held in June 2006, December 2006, June 2007 and November 2007. At the June 2007 meeting, members were encouraged to suggest alternatives to hard charging teachers’ employers for the cost of early retirement: none has yet been received.
Tá grúpa oibre á bhunú anois i gcomhair comhairliúcháin le páirtithe ábhartha faoi na socruithe do SCSRA do bhlianta sa todhchaí.
A working group is now being established for consultation with relevant parties on the arrangements for PRCS for future years.
Superannuation Liaison Committee
Mr P McGlone asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the meetings that took place; and (ii) the findings, of the Superannuation Liaison Committee, set up by her department.
(AQW 3490/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Teachers’ Superannuation Consultative Committee here is the established forum for consultation on matters relating to the Teachers’ Pensions Scheme. Members of the Committee were first made aware in February 2006 that action was required to control the escalating costs of the Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme (PRCS). PRCS was included on the agenda and discussed at subsequent meetings of the Committee held in June 2006, December 2006, June 2007 and November 2007. At the June 2007 meeting, members were encouraged to suggest alternatives to hard charging: none has yet been received.
Tá grúpa oibre á bhunú anois i gcomhair comhairliúcháin le páirtithe ábhartha faoi na socruithe do SCSRA do bhlianta sa todhchaí.
A working group is now being established for consultation with relevant parties on the arrangements for PRCS for future years.
Premature Retirement Scheme
Mr P Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the reasons why her department did not set up a working group to consider the implications of 'hard charging' schools for teachers' added years in the Premature Retirement scheme.
(AQW 3503/08)
Ms C Ruane: Consideration was initially given to the proposal that employers would be hard charged for the full cost of premature retirement from 1 April 2008 (i.e. both the cost of early payment of pension and any enhancement in the form of added years), and my Department gave an undertaking to the Teachers’ Council here at a meeting held on 21 August 2006 that a working group would be set up to consult on the introduction of full hard-charging from April 2008. In the event it was not possible in the time available to introduce the legislative changes that would be required to implement full hard charging from April 2008, or to consult with stakeholders. A working group is now being established for consultation with relevant parties on the arrangements for the Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme (PRCS) for future years.
Interim measures were nevertheless necessary to control the escalating cost of teachers’ premature retirement; and no legislative change was required to hard charge employing authorities for the cost of enhancement (added years), as this is already provided for in the Teachers’ (Compensation for Redundancy and Premature Retirement) Regulations (NI) 1991 (as amended).
Consultation took place through the Teachers’ Superannuation Consultative Committee here, which is the established forum for consultation on matters relating to the Teachers’ Pensions Scheme. Members of the Committee were first made aware in February 2006 that action was required to control the escalating costs of the PRCS. PRCS was included on the agenda and discussed at subsequent meetings of the Committee held in June 2006, December 2006, June 2007 and November 2007.
Ag cruinniú Mhí Mheithimh 2007, gríosaíodh comhaltaí le roghanna eile a mholadh diomaite de na húdaráis chúiteacha a bheith freagrach as an chostas iarbhír: ní bhfuarthas aon mholadh go dtí seo.
At the June 2007 meeting, members were encouraged to suggest alternatives to hard charging: none has yet been received.
Scottish Executive Meeting
Miss M McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to provide a detailed account of her meeting with her counterpart in the Scottish Executive in Edinburgh, on the 12 December 2008
(AQW 3607/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tugadh miontuairisc ar mo chruinniú le Fiona Hyslop CPA, an Rúnaí Comh-Aireachta don Oideachas agus don Fhoghlaim ar feadh an tSaoil, don Choiste Oideachais ar 8 Feabhra 2008.
A detailed account of my meeting with Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, was provided to the Education Committee on 8 February 2008. A copy is also now being placed in the Assembly Library.
Post Primary Education
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Education to detail the reasons for the absence of any reference to proposals for post-primary education within the Programme for Government and 2008-2011 Budget.
(AQW 3668/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá mo mholtaí i gcomhair Aistrithe mar chuid de phacáiste fadréimseach leasaithe don oideachas iar-bhunscoile – a bhfuil príomhghnéithe de sa Chlár Rialtais agus sa Straitéis Infheistíochta : infheistíocht mhór chaipitil i scoileanna agus pleanáil bunaithe sa cheantar le heastát scoileanna oiriúnach don fheidhm, inbhuanaithe a sholáthar; straitéis le scoileanna a fheabhsú; agus leasú curaclaim.
My proposals for Transfer are part of a wide-ranging package of reform for post-primary education – key elements of which are in the Programme for Government and the Investment Strategy: extensive capital investment in schools and area-based planning to deliver a fit for purpose and sustainable schools estate; a strategy for school improvement; and curriculum reform.
Building Projects
Dr S Farry asked the Minister of Education to report on what consideration is being given to opportunities for area planning and sectoral collaboration within the current 100 plus schools already announced for major building projects within the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland.
(AQW 3670/08)
Ms C Ruane: I would encourage school authorities to consider opportunities for area planning and collaboration as their building projects are taken through the planning stages so that we make best use of the new facilities in addressing anticipated needs on an area basis.
Mhínigh mé i mo ráiteas den 4 Márta faoi phleanáil bunaithe - ar limistéir gur chóir do ghrúpaí lárnacha agus áitiúla na deiseanna maidir le comhroinnt agus comhoibriú idir na scoileanna a chur san áireamh.
In my statement on 4 March on area-based planning I explained that the work of the central and local area groups should take account of opportunities for sharing and collaboration between schools.
Curricular Requirements
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what action she is taking to address the recent comments made by the Chief Inspector of Schools in relation to the concerns expressed by school principals and staff on the new curricular requirements.
(AQW 3855/08)
Ms C Ruane: I welcome the Chief Inspector’s very helpful report, which shows the progress made during the last school year, and identifies actions to facilitate further progress. Furthermore, I met with the Chief Inspector on 18 February to discuss the issues raised in the report.
The Partnership Management Board (PMB), set up to manage the curriculum implementation, has already made several changes to its support programme in response to feedback from principals and teachers. This has included a refocusing on training for principals and establishment of a principals’ forum to improve direct communication with headteachers. Schools also received a specific budget for revised curriculum training, providing heads with additional resources to lead implementation within their schools. PMB has now been asked to make further changes to its implementation programme for 2008-09, to take account of those findings by the Chief Inspector which are not already covered in existing action plans.
In my budget announcement on 12 February, I indicated that, over the next three financial years, an extra £32million will be available for primary schools to support the new Foundation Stage curriculum in Years 1 and 2, and an additional £22million to support the implementation of the revised curriculum and associated assessment arrangements.
Chomh maith leis sin tá an Roinn ag ullmhú straitéis nua cumarsáide le cinntiú go mbíonn a chumarsáid i measc na n-eagraíochtaí oideachaiis agus scoileanna chomh maith le tuismitheoiri soiléir agus éifeachtach.
The Department is also developing a new communications strategy to make sure that communication across the education bodies and with schools and parents is clear and effective.
Post Primary Transfer
Mr M Storey asked the Minister of Education what her assessment is of whether or not educational experience and performance at primary school has a bearing on the advice given to the receiving school.
(AQW 3980/08)
Ms C Ruane: Measaim gur páirt luachmhar sa chinneadh aistrithe le leas an pháiste aonair pictúir foriomlán de dhul chun cinn oideachasúil agus cumas foghlama an pháiste a forbraíodh thar sheacht mbliana d’oideachas bunscoile.
I consider that a rounded picture of a child’s educational progress and aptitude for learning developed over seven years of primary education can play a valuable part in informing the transfer decision in the best interests of the individual child.
It is important that this information is used to maximise the choices available to children and young people.
Interface Funding
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education to detail the funding arrangements for schools in interface areas once the interface funding finishes this year.
(AQW 4216/08)
Ms C Ruane: I do not plan to make any differentiation in the arrangements for funding schools in the Interface Support Programme when that programme ends on 31 March 2008.
The Interface School Support Programme was always intended to be a short term measure of support for a small number of the schools worst affected by community conflict in particular areas of Belfast in recent years.
The schools in the current programme have been advised well in advance to plan their expenditure for the incoming financial years on the basis that the programme would be coming to an end.
From 1 April 2008, it will again be entirely a matter for the Belfast Education and Library Board to consider and, as appropriate, address within the Local Management of Schools common funding arrangements the relative expenditure needs of these and other controlled and maintained schools in its area.
Leanfaidh an Roinn de bheith ag cothú agus ag cur chun cinn deiseanna níos fearr fostaíochta dár muintir óg ar fad de réir tosaíochtaí na cáinaisnéise.
The Department for its part will continue to foster and promote better educational opportunities for all our young people in accordance with its budget priorities.
Munia Tober Blackstaff Complex
Mr P Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the future funding that will be made available for the education project at Munia Tober Blackstaff Complex, West Belfast, given that funding for the project will end this year.
(AQW 4261/08)
Ms C Ruane: All Departmental funding for alternative education is allocated directly to the Education and Library Boards and it is a matter for each Board to decide how these funds can be best used to meet the needs of young people in its area.
Cuireann Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne Bhéal Feirste oideachas reachtúil comhroghnach ar fáil a dhéanann cuimsiú sóisialta ar gach dalta agus a bhfuil Comhaontuithe ar Leibhéal Sóisialta i bhfeidhm acu le trí sholáthraí atá lonnaithe sa phobal. Is eol dom nach bhfuil aon phlean ag an Bhord le maoiniú a chur ar fail do Thionscnamh Oideachais Ailtéarnach An Munia Tober.
The Belfast Education and Library Board provides statutory alternative education which is socially inclusive of all pupils and also has Service Level Agreements in place with three community-based providers. I understand that the Board has no plans to provide funding to An Munia Tober’s Alternative Education Project.
Educational Technology
Miss M McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to outline the reasons why the Southern and Western Education and Library Boards turned down the opportunity of taking part in a pilot project with the Royal National Institute of Blind People Northern Ireland, which would have resulted in educational technology, of an average value of £2,000 per pupil, being made available to around ten blind or partially sighted children in their area.
(AQW 4335/08)
Ms C Ruane: I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB) and Western Education and Library Board (WELB) that in recent months officers from SELB and WELB with responsibility for service delivery in relation to Sensory Impairment were in dialogue with the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB). On the basis of these discussions the RNIB forwarded a general project proposal for consideration but when the content of this proposal was read in detail by Board officers it transpired that it did not concur with the discussions and potential agreements which had reportedly taken place at previous meetings with RNIB.
As a result the Head of Children & Young People’s Services across SELB and WELB wrote to RNIB regarding this matter in January 2008 and expressed concern about the content of the proposal and the timeline. A meeting to discuss the matter in detail was provisionally arranged for 8 February 2008 but unfortunately the RNIB representative contacted the Board and indicated that this meeting would be cancelled.
Maidir leis an gceist seo, is é barúil Phríomhfheidhmeannaigh Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne an Dheiscirt agus Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne an Iarthair nach bhfuil an cheist a cuireadh i gcomhréir leis na himeachtaí a tharla le míonna anuas.
In this regard, it is the opinion of the Chief Executives of SELB and WELB that the question which has been posed is not in accord with the events of recent months.
Textbook Provision
Mr T Lunn asked the Minister of Education to detail the engagement she has had with expert stakeholders, in the formulation of a textbook service for blind and partially sighted school children.
(AQW 4344/08)
Ms C Ruane: I met with the Director of the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) in August 2007 to discuss a range of issues concerning the recommendations contained in the RNIB "Where’s my Book" Report.
In response to the campaign, which highlighted a textbook deficit for visually impaired pupils based on research carried out in England, Wales and the North of Ireland, the Department of Education (DE) established a scoping project to gauge the extent of the problem here in the North. The steering group for the project was chaired by the Special Education Officer of the North Eastern Education and Library Board, as a representative of the Education and Library Boards Regional Strategy Group for Special Educational Needs (RSG), and membership of the steering group comprised of principal educational psychologist, who is also a member of RSG, the Principal of Jordanstown Schools, a member of the Education and Training Inspectorate with responsibility for special education and technology and a representative from RNIB.
The Steering Group commissioned an ex-member of the Education and Training Inspectorate, who has expertise and background in visual impairments, to lead the work of the scoping study and he was supported by a specialist teacher seconded from Jordanstown Schools for children with auditory or visual impairments. The Report was presented to the DE in April 2007. An RNIB representative was present at the final Steering Group meeting in April and signed off the report.
The Department of Education, through the RSG, wishes to progress matters to the benefit of all visually impaired pupils and RSG is actively pursuing the views of all stakeholders. This includes consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the voluntary sector, such as RNIB, the statutory sector, parents as well as children and young people.
Mar chuid den chomhairliúchán seo tugadh cuireadh do Stiúrthóir RNIB TÉ freastal ar chruinniú an GSR ar 18ú Feabhra leis an bealach chun cinn a phlé, ach ní raibh sé in ann freastal. Leis an cheist seo a thabhairt chun cinn tá an GSR ar lorg tuairimí RNIB go foirmeálta i scríbhinn.
As part of this consultation the Director of RNIB NI, was invited to attend the RSG meeting on 18th February, but was unable to attend. In order to progress this matter RSG are formally seeking the views of RNIB in writing. When these views are received a further meeting of an RSG sub-group, specifically formed to take this matter forward, will be scheduled.
Classroom Assistants
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Education (i) to confirm the number of classroom assistants in the South Down constituency who have left their jobs to take up alternative employment; and (ii) to outline the arrangements she has put in place to assist special needs children whose care has been affected.
(AQW 4372/08)
Ms C Ruane: During the period 1 September 2007 to 29 February 2008, seven classroom assistants resigned from schools in the South Down constituency area, six of whom worked with children with special needs. This information has been provided by the South Eastern and Southern Education and Library Boards and relates only to permanent classroom assistants employed by the two Boards.
Tá ar na boird a chinntiú go bhfuil soláthar á dhéanamh le haghaidh riachtanais speisialta oideachais a aithnítear a bheith ag leanaí.
Boards are required to ensure that provision is in place to meet the identified special educational needs of a child. Permanent classroom assistants are normally required to give at least one month’s notice and any vacancies are advertised without delay. However, given the timescale of the recruitment process, a school may need to engage a temporary classroom assistant or redeploy from existing resources to meet an identified need until a permanent replacement can be recruited. In very exceptional circumstances a child may be required to remain at home on tuition pending a suitable replacement being trained.
GCSE Results
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail for each of the last 3 years (i) the number of pupils that have taken GCSE examinations; and (ii) the percentage of these pupils who achieved grades A* to C; and to outline how these results compare with other regions of the United Kingdom.
(AQW 4467/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| Region | 2002/03 | 2003/04 | 2004/05 | 2005/06 | 2006/07 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) Number of pupils entered for GCSE and percentage achieving 1 or more grades at A*- C | North of Ireland | 25,792 (80%) | 25,635 (80%) | 25,736 (81%) | ||
| England | 636,771(79%) | 648,942(80%) | 656,432(83%) | |||
| Wales | 38,495 (76%) | 38,859 (77%) | 39,576 (77%) | |||
| (2) Number of pupils entered for GCSE maths and English and the percentage achieving grade A*-C in these subjects | North of Ireland | 26,651 (52%) | 26,626 (51%) | 25,792 (52%) | 25,635 (53%) | 25,736 (53%) |
| England | 622,122 (43%) | 643,560 (44%) | 636,771(46%) | 648,942(47%) | 656,432(47%) | |
| Wales | 37,993(41%) | 39,212(42%) | 38,495(43%) | 38,859(45%) | 39,576(46%) | |
| (3) Number of pupils achieving A*-C in GCSE maths and English by gender | North of Ireland (male) | 6,142 (45%) | 6,067 (45%) | 6,122 (46%) | 6,163 (47%) | 6,338 (48%) |
| North of Ireland (female) | 7,593 (58%) | 7,458 (57%) | 7,409 (59%) | 7,397 (59%) | 7,411 (59%) | |
| England (male) | 124,600(39%) | 130,900(40%) | 135,400(42%) | 141,100(43%) | 143,900(44%) | |
| England (female) | 142,700(47%) | 151,200(48%) | 156,700(50%) | 162,400(51%) | 166,800(52%) | |
| Wales (male) | 19,215 (37%) | 19,978 (38%) | 19,628 (39%) | 19,784 (40%) | 20,230(42%) | |
| Wales (female) | 18,778 (45%) | 19,234 (46%) | 18,867 (48%) | 19,075 (50%) | 19,346(50%) | |
| Percentage point change in achievement | ||||||
| (4) Percentage increase in the number of GCSE A*-C grades achieved by pupils between 1993-1994 and 2003-2004 | North of Ireland | 76% - 79% (3) | ||||
| England | 70% -76% (6) | |||||
| Wales | 64% - 74% (10) | |||||
Notes:
(4) The earliest available data for the North of Ireland relates to the 1995/96 academic year.
GCSE Results
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each of the last 5 years (i) the number of pupils who have taken examinations in GCSE English and GCSE Maths; and (ii) the percentage of pupils who achieved grade A* to C in these subjects; and to outline how these results compare with other regions of the United Kingdom.
(AQW 4468/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| Region | 2002/03 | 2003/04 | 2004/05 | 2005/06 | 2006/07 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) Number of pupils entered for GCSE and percentage achieving 1 or more grades at A*- C | North of Ireland | 25,792 (80%) | 25,635 (80%) | 25,736 (81%) | ||
| England | 636,771(79%) | 648,942(80%) | 656,432(83%) | |||
| Wales | 38,495 (76%) | 38,859 (77%) | 39,576 (77%) | |||
| (2) Number of pupils entered for GCSE maths and English and the percentage achieving grade A*-C in these subjects | North of Ireland | 26,651 (52%) | 26,626 (51%) | 25,792 (52%) | 25,635 (53%) | 25,736 (53%) |
| England | 622,122 (43%) | 643,560 (44%) | 636,771(46%) | 648,942(47%) | 656,432(47%) | |
| Wales | 37,993(41%) | 39,212(42%) | 38,495(43%) | 38,859(45%) | 39,576(46%) | |
| (3) Number of pupils achieving A*-C in GCSE maths and English by gender | North of Ireland (male) | 6,142 (45%) | 6,067 (45%) | 6,122 (46%) | 6,163 (47%) | 6,338 (48%) |
| North of Ireland (female) | 7,593 (58%) | 7,458 (57%) | 7,409 (59%) | 7,397 (59%) | 7,411 (59%) | |
| England (male) | 124,600(39%) | 130,900(40%) | 135,400(42%) | 141,100(43%) | 143,900(44%) | |
| England (female) | 142,700(47%) | 151,200(48%) | 156,700(50%) | 162,400(51%) | 166,800(52%) | |
| Wales (male) | 19,215 (37%) | 19,978 (38%) | 19,628 (39%) | 19,784 (40%) | 20,230(42%) | |
| Wales (female) | 18,778 (45%) | 19,234 (46%) | 18,867 (48%) | 19,075 (50%) | 19,346(50%) | |
| Percentage point change in achievement | ||||||
| (4) Percentage increase in the number of GCSE A*-C grades achieved by pupils between 1993-1994 and 2003-2004 | North of Ireland | 76% - 79% (3) | ||||
| England | 70% -76% (6) | |||||
| Wales | 64% - 74% (10) | |||||
Notes:
(4) The earliest available data for the North of Ireland relates to the 1995/96 academic year.
GCSE Results
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils achieving grades A* to C in English and Maths, broken down by gender for each of the last 5 years; and to outline how these compare with results in England and Wales.
(AQW 4469/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| Region | 2002/03 | 2003/04 | 2004/05 | 2005/06 | 2006/07 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) Number of pupils entered for GCSE and percentage achieving 1 or more grades at A*- C | North of Ireland | 25,792 (80%) | 25,635 (80%) | 25,736 (81%) | ||
| England | 636,771(79%) | 648,942(80%) | 656,432(83%) | |||
| Wales | 38,495 (76%) | 38,859 (77%) | 39,576 (77%) | |||
| (2) Number of pupils entered for GCSE maths and English and the percentage achieving grade A*-C in these subjects | North of Ireland | 26,651 (52%) | 26,626 (51%) | 25,792 (52%) | 25,635 (53%) | 25,736 (53%) |
| England | 622,122 (43%) | 643,560 (44%) | 636,771(46%) | 648,942(47%) | 656,432(47%) | |
| Wales | 37,993(41%) | 39,212(42%) | 38,495(43%) | 38,859(45%) | 39,576(46%) | |
| (3) Number of pupils achieving A*-C in GCSE maths and English by gender | North of Ireland (male) | 6,142 (45%) | 6,067 (45%) | 6,122 (46%) | 6,163 (47%) | 6,338 (48%) |
| North of Ireland (female) | 7,593 (58%) | 7,458 (57%) | 7,409 (59%) | 7,397 (59%) | 7,411 (59%) | |
| England (male) | 124,600(39%) | 130,900(40%) | 135,400(42%) | 141,100(43%) | 143,900(44%) | |
| England (female) | 142,700(47%) | 151,200(48%) | 156,700(50%) | 162,400(51%) | 166,800(52%) | |
| Wales (male) | 19,215 (37%) | 19,978 (38%) | 19,628 (39%) | 19,784 (40%) | 20,230(42%) | |
| Wales (female) | 18,778 (45%) | 19,234 (46%) | 18,867 (48%) | 19,075 (50%) | 19,346(50%) | |
| Percentage point change in achievement | ||||||
| (4) Percentage increase in the number of GCSE A*-C grades achieved by pupils between 1993-1994 and 2003-2004 | North of Ireland | 76% - 79% (3) | ||||
| England | 70% -76% (6) | |||||
| Wales | 64% - 74% (10) | |||||
Notes:
(4) The earliest available data for the North of Ireland relates to the 1995/96 academic year.
GCSE Results
Mr T Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail the percentage increase in the number of GCSE A* to C grades achieved by pupils between 1993-1994 and 2003-2004; and to outline how these compare with other regions in the United Kingdom.
(AQW 4470/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| Region | 2002/03 | 2003/04 | 2004/05 | 2005/06 | 2006/07 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (1) Number of pupils entered for GCSE and percentage achieving 1 or more grades at A*- C | North of Ireland | 25,792 (80%) | 25,635 (80%) | 25,736 (81%) | ||
| England | 636,771(79%) | 648,942(80%) | 656,432(83%) | |||
| Wales | 38,495 (76%) | 38,859 (77%) | 39,576 (77%) | |||
| (2) Number of pupils entered for GCSE maths and English and the percentage achieving grade A*-C in these subjects | North of Ireland | 26,651 (52%) | 26,626 (51%) | 25,792 (52%) | 25,635 (53%) | 25,736 (53%) |
| England | 622,122 (43%) | 643,560 (44%) | 636,771(46%) | 648,942(47%) | 656,432(47%) | |
| Wales | 37,993(41%) | 39,212(42%) | 38,495(43%) | 38,859(45%) | 39,576(46%) | |
| (3) Number of pupils achieving A*-C in GCSE maths and English by gender | North of Ireland (male) | 6,142 (45%) | 6,067 (45%) | 6,122 (46%) | 6,163 (47%) | 6,338 (48%) |
| North of Ireland (female) | 7,593 (58%) | 7,458 (57%) | 7,409 (59%) | 7,397 (59%) | 7,411 (59%) | |
| England (male) | 124,600(39%) | 130,900(40%) | 135,400(42%) | 141,100(43%) | 143,900(44%) | |
| England (female) | 142,700(47%) | 151,200(48%) | 156,700(50%) | 162,400(51%) | 166,800(52%) | |
| Wales (male) | 19,215 (37%) | 19,978 (38%) | 19,628 (39%) | 19,784 (40%) | 20,230(42%) | |
| Wales (female) | 18,778 (45%) | 19,234 (46%) | 18,867 (48%) | 19,075 (50%) | 19,346(50%) | |
| Percentage point change in achievement | ||||||
| (4) Percentage increase in the number of GCSE A*-C grades achieved by pupils between 1993-1994 and 2003-2004 | North of Ireland | 76% - 79% (3) | ||||
| England | 70% -76% (6) | |||||
| Wales | 64% - 74% (10) | |||||
Notes:
(4) The earliest available data for the North of Ireland relates to the 1995/96 academic year.
St Comgall's College, Larne
Mr S Neeson asked the Minister of Education to detail her department's plans for the future of St Comgall's College, Larne.
(AQW 4475/08)
Ms C Ruane: On 28 February the North Eastern Education and Library Board published a Development Proposal submitted by The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools, who act on behalf of the Trustess of St MacNissi’s College, St Aloysius High, Cushendall and St Comgall’s High Larne, to the effect that the schools will amalgamate on the site of St MacNissi’s College with effect from 1 September 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Chuir an foilsiú tús le tréimhse reachtúil comhairliúcháin 2 mhí inar féidir aighneachtaí a chur faoi bhráid na Roinne Oideachais.
The publication initiated a statutory 2-month consultation period during which representations including objections can be made to the Department of Education. At the end of this period I will decide whether to approve the Development Proposal or not taking into account all pertinent issues raised during the period.
Funding Differential
Mr J Craig asked the Minister of Education to detail her department's plans to reduce the differential in funding between the primary and post-primary sectors.
(AQW 4508/08)
Ms C Ruane: As outlined in my announcement of 12 February 2008 on Education funding, provision has been made to increase the proportion of funding made available to primary schools under the delegated Local Management of Schools funding formula, alongside additional funding outside of the formula in support of primary schools.
Under the delegated funding formula I have increased the primary Age Weighted Pupil Unit (AWPU) which is the main funding factor in the formula. This means that, on average, additional primary per pupil increases in 2008/09 are higher than those for post primary schools. I have also signalled my intentions to increase further the primary AWPU weighting over the next two years of this budget period.
Over the next three years, I have been able to secure additional funding of almost £12 million to help primary school teaching principals and a further £32 million to support primary schools with the delivery of the Foundation Stage of the revised curriculum. Additional provision is also planned, over the next three years, for Literacy and Numeracy measures, implementation of the Special Education Needs and Inclusion Review, an Emotional Health and Wellbeing programme in primary and special education, and additional Early Years provision, etc.
Tá mé tiomanta do dhéanamh cinnte de go mbeidh an deis ag ár leanaí agus ár ndaoine óga go léir an acmhainn atá iontu a chomhlíonadh trí sheirbhísí oideachais den scoth a bheith ar fáil, agus thug mé fios go bhfuil sé ar intinn agam a chinntiú go mbeidh cothromaíocht níos fearr ann maidir leis an maoiniú a chuirtear ar fáil do scoileanna bunoideachais agus iarbhunoideachais, agus é sin a dhéanamh laistigh de na hacmhainní atá ar fáil.
I am committed to ensuring that all our children and young people have the opportunity to fulfil their potential through quality education services, and have signalled my intention, within available resources, to improving the balance of funding between primary and post-primary schools.
Independent Schools Counselling Services
Miss M McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to outline the steps the steps she is taking to ensure that every school is serviced by Independent Schools Counselling services.
(AQW 4544/08)
Ms C Ruane: Counselling support through the Independent Counselling for Schools Service is currently available in post primary schools only. The support needs of pupils in the primary sector and special needs sectors will be covered in the next phase of development. Plans are in hand to engage with key stakeholders across education, health and social services and the voluntary and statutory sectors who have an expertise in meeting the needs of these children and young people.
Déanfar moltaí maidir le tacaíocht chuí a ullmhú mar chuid de soláthar aon bheart nó seirbhís nua sa tréimhse 2009-2011 agus d'fheadfadh rochtain ar chomhairliú feiliúnach a bheith i gceist.
Proposals for appropriate support, which may include access to suitable counselling, will be prepared for roll out of any action or new services in 2009-2011.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Mr P Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in (i) special schools - severe learning difficulty; (ii) mainstream primary and post-primary schools; and (iii) other forms of educational provision, broken down by Education and Library Board.
(AQW 4555/08)
Ms C Ruane: Is mar seo a leanas atá an fhaisnéis a hiarradh.
The information requested is as follows.
Official Visits
Miss M McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to detail, by date and duration, all visits she has made to each of the 18 constituencies since taking up her post.
(AQW 4598/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached tables.
VISITS MADE TO EACH CONSTITUENCY SINCE TAKING UP POST – 6 MARCH 2008
| CONSTITUENCY | DATE OF VISIT | DURATION OF VISIT |
|---|---|---|
| NORTH BELFAST | 09/05/07 15/06/07 07/08/07 14/08/07 19/09/07 04/10/07 10/10/07 08/11/07 13/11/07 20/02/08 27/02/08 |
1 hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 15mins 1hr |
| SOUTH BELFAST | 17/05/07 18/05/07 05/06/07 15/06/07 21/06/07 27/06/07 27/06/07 02/07/07 01/08/07 08/08/07 10/09/07 13/09/07 17/09/07 19/09/07 06/11/07 10/11/07 12/11/07 20/11/07 23/01/08 30/01/08 30/01/08 12/02/08 20/02/08 05/03/08 |
45mins 1hr 1hr 45mins 30mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 45mins 2hrs 45mins 1hr 30mins 1hr 15mins 2hrs 1hr 15mins 1hr 20mins 45mins 1hr 1hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 1hr |
| EAST BELFAST | 31/05/07 10/10/07 21/11/07 21/11/07 21/11/07 30/11/07 21/01/08 06/02/08 12/02/08 27/02/08 |
1hr 45mins 1hr 30mins 2hrs 15mins 1hr 1hr 30mins 1hr 2hrs 1hr |
| CONSTITUENCY | DATE OF VISIT | DURATION OF VISIT |
| WEST BELFAST | 11/05/07 12/06/07 13/06/07 19/06/07 26/06/07 29/06/07 29/06/07 08/08/07 21/09/07 21/09/07 26/09/07 04/10/07 12/11/07 21/11/07 28/11/07 30/01/08 20/02/08 |
1hr 1hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 50mins 1hr 2hrs 1hr 2hrs 1hr 1hr 1hr 30 mins 1hr 35mins 1hr 1hr |
| SOUTH DOWN | 11/05/07 16/05/07 23/05/07 12/06/07 14/06/07 22/06/07 18/07/07 21/09/07 22/09/07 28/09/07 12/10/07 12/10/07 16/10/07 24/10/07 26/10/07 07/12/07 18/12/07 09/01/08 11/01/08 08/02/08 22/02/08 29/02/08 |
1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 2hrs 1hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 30mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 09/05/07 09/05/07 30/05/07 21/11/07 05/12/07 05/12/07 |
1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 15 mins 45mins |
| CONSTITUENCY | DATE OF VISIT | DURATION OF VISIT |
|---|---|---|
| MID ULSTER | 09/05/07 26/06/07 12/12/07 |
1hr 2hrs 1hr |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 17/10/07 17/10/07 17/10/07 17/10/07 17/10/07 24/10/07 24/10/07 |
30mins 45mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr |
| WEST TYRONE | 15/11/07 19/12/07 |
1hr 6hrs 30 mins |
| NEWRY & ARMAGH | 16/05/07 21/05/07 24/05/07 09/06/07 20/06/07 22/06/07 22/06/07 24/07/07 09/08/07 12/09/07 12/09/07 12/09/07 12/09/07 07/11/07 20/11/07 06/12/07 13/12/07 17/12/07 18/01/08 |
1hr 1hr 1hr 15mins 2hrs 45mins 1hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 45mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 1hr 2hrs 30mins 1hr 1hr 2hrs 2hrs 4hrs 30mins |
| FOYLE | 06/06/07 30/06/07 19/09/07 27/09/07 02/10/07 03/10/07 31/10/07 05/12/07 |
1hr 1hr 2hrs 1hr 2hrs 30mins 45mins 1hr |
| EAST DERRY | 06/06/07 28/06/07 28/06/07 28/06/07 24/10/07 05/12/07 |
1hr 45mins 45mins 45mins 1hr 1hr |
| CONSTITUENCY | DATE OF VISIT | DURATION OF VISIT |
|---|---|---|
| UPPER BANN | 13/06/07 20/06/07 20/06/07 27/06/07 27/06/07 14/08/07 18/09/07 |
1hr 15mins 1hr 30mins 30mins 1hr 1hr 1hr 2hrs |
| EAST ANTRIM | 15/06/07 28/02/08 |
1hr 1hr |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 15/06/07 28/06/07 |
45mins 45mins |
| FERMANAGH & SOUTH TYRONE | 28/06/07 04/10/07 19/12/07 |
30mins 1hr 30mins 1hr 30 mins |
| NORTH DOWN | 06/03/08 06/03/08 |
1hr 1hr |
| STRANGFORD |
Irish Medium Sector
Mr N McCausland asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of children currently being educated in the Irish medium sector at (i) primary; and (ii) post primary, level.
(AQW 4697/08)
Ms C Ruane: Is mar seo a leanas atá an fhaisnéis a hiarradh.
The information requested is as follows.
Number of children in grant aided Irish medium schools and units 2007/08
| Irish medium schools | Irish medium units | Irish medium schools and units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary1 schools and units | 2,039 | 614 | 2,653 |
| Post primary schools and units | 506 | 126 | 632 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
1. Includes children in Year 1 – Year 7.
Pupil Numbers
Mr N McCausland asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of children that are currently being educated in the Integrated sector at (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary, level.
(AQW 4698/08)
Ms C Ruane: Is mar seo a leanas atá an fhaisnéis a hiarradh.
The information requested is as follows.
Number of children in grant aided Integrated1 schools 2007/08
| Primary2 schools | 7,177 |
| Post Primary schools | 11,247 |
Source: NI school census.
Note:
- Includes Controlled Integrated and Grant Maintained Integrated schools.
- Includes children in Year 1 – Year 7.
A-Level Subjects
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number; and (ii) the percentage change, of students who have completed A-levels in (a) Maths; (b) Physics; and (c) Technology and Design, in each of the last 10 years.
(AQW 4738/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table:
| Subject1 | 96/97 | 97/98 | 98/99 | 99/00 | 00/01 | 01/02 | 02/03 | 03/04 | 04/05 | 05/06 | 06/07 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maths | 2,638 | 2,603 (-1%) |
2,475 (-5%) |
2,476 (0%) |
2,437 (-2%) |
2,104 (-14%) |
2,078 (-1%) |
2,254 (8%) |
2,196 (-3%) |
2,279 (+4%) | 2,462 (+8%) |
| Physics | 1,524 | 1,480 (-3%) |
1,317 (-11%) |
1,453 (+10%) |
1,486 (+2%) |
1,362 (-8%) |
1,387 (+2%) |
1,349 (-3%) |
1,321 (-2%) |
1,209 (-8%) |
1,257 (+4%) |
| Design and Technology (D&T) | 265 | 269 (+2%) |
279 (+4%) |
378 (+35%) |
485 (+28%) |
142 (-71) |
175 (+23%) |
227 (+30%) |
275 (+21%) |
401 (46%) |
379 (-5%) |
| D&T: Systems | 4 | 6 (+50%) |
203 (+3,283%) |
292 (+44%) |
285 (-2%) |
251 (-12%) |
33 (-87%) |
29 (-12%) |
|||
| D&T: Communication | 13 | 19 (+46%) |
15 (-21%) |
(-100%) | |||||||
| D&T: Technology | 29 | 45 (+55%) |
57 (+27%) |
(-100%) | |||||||
| D&T: Resistance materials | 3 | 15 (+400%) |
(-100%) | ||||||||
| D&T: Design | 3 | (-100%) | |||||||||
| D&T: Product Design | 159 | 177 (+11%) |
242 (+37%) |
224 (-7%) |
281 (+25%) |
313 (+11%) |
Notes
Percentage changes in all cases relate to changes from the previous academic year. Figures reflect the entries in specific subject areas, they do not provide an indication of course availability.
1 The subject classification for Design and Technology has changed over time – percentage changes in these specific subject areas should be viewed in this context.
Music Courses
Mr T Buchanan asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) students that are sitting; and (ii) teachers that are delivering, A-level music courses in the Western Education and Library Board area, broken down by district council area.
(AQW 4745/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| District council area | (i) Students enrolled in A level music | (ii) Teachers delivering A level music |
|---|---|---|
| Omagh | 24 |
6 |
| Derry | 59 |
9 |
| Strabane | 6 |
3 |
| Fermanagh | 32 |
6 |
| Limavady | * |
1 |
Notes * Denotes fewer than five pupils
Sexual Offences
Mr D McNarry asked the Minister of Education to detail the lists used by her department to identify Education Board employees, including teachers, who are under restriction in relation to their contact with school pupils, and to confirm whether any current employees have convictions for sexual offences.
(AQO 2391/08)
Ms C Ruane: Chi Baineann cosaint páistí le gach duine. Caithfidh gach duine i suíomh oideachais céadtosaíocht a thabhairt do na páistí agus na daoine óga faoina gcúram a choinneáil sábháilte.
ld protection is everyone’s business. Keeping safe the children and young people in their care must be the top priority for everyone in an educational setting. Child Protection is a serious issue and has been debated here in the Assembly and has been discussed recently at both the North South Ministerial Council and the British Irish Council.
The Department has the power to prohibit a person from teaching or working with children. These powers are contained in Articles 70 and 88A of the
Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (Northern Ireland) Order 2003. The Education (Prohibition from Teaching or Working with Children) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007 set out the procedure to be followed. The Department is required to maintain these names on the Unsuitable Persons list. It is an offence for an individual on either the DHSSPS or DE lists of persons prohibited from working with children or who are the subject of a disqualification order issued by the courts, to knowingly apply for, offer to do, accept or do any work, paid or unpaid, in a regulated position which gives them access to children. It is an offence for an individual to knowingly employ in a regulated position, offer work in a regulated position to, or procure work in a regulated position for, such a person, or fail to remove such a person from such work. Anyone convicted of these offences is liable to punishment by imprisonment or fines or both.
If, in the course of employment, a person who works in a school or for a board in a capacity where they have contact with children, becomes the subject of a police or social services investigation involving child abuse, it is most likely that this individual will be suspended from employment on a precautionary basis. The action to apply a precautionary suspension will be taken on advice from the relevant investigating agency. This action will obviously restrict contact with pupils. The Department is notified by the employing authority of any teachers who are under precautionary suspension. Information about non teaching personnel is not made available to the Department routinely.
If the allegations have been substantiated and following the internal disciplinary process, the employing authority must refer the individual to the Department for consideration for listing.
The Department is not in a position to confirm whether any current employees have convictions for sexual offences. Persons with relevant sexual offences i.e. offences against a child, are listed as unsuitable and would not be employed. Where a person with a conviction for a sexual offence applies for a position in the education sector and is suitable in all other respects, it is a matter for the employing authority to conduct a risk assessment before a decision to employ is made.
Child protection arrangements are kept under continuous review and every effort is made to ensure they are robust. I take any failures to comply with current regulations very seriously (as do my officials) and would ask the Member if he has any specific concerns I would ask him to raise them with me directly.
Pupils Transferring
Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education to detail the basis on which pupils transferring at age 14 under her proposals, can be refused by the receiving school.
(AQO 2429/08)
Ms C Ruane: I will be bringing forward detailed proposals on this in due course but I can provide some general points.
Mar léirigh mé go soiléir i mo mholtaí, ní gá go mbeadh gluaiseacht fhisiceach daltaí idir scoileanna in aois a 14 bliana i gceist le roghnú eolach ag 14 bliana.
As I have made clear in my proposals, informed election at 14 need not involve the physical movement of pupils between schools at 14. Alignment to a young person’s chosen pathway will take place in the context of the arrangement of post-primary provision within an area, as determined by an area based planning process. In my statement to the Assembly on 4 March I announced the timescale and process for the introduction of full area-based planning.
Second, where informed election at 14 does result in the physical movement of pupils between schools this will take place within a flexible and responsive context where pathways are guaranteed and where oversubscription is less prevalent than under the current system.
Third, election will be informed and based on high quality careers education information advice and guidance, allied to teacher and parental advice.
Fourth, in the event that a school finds itself oversubscribed with applicants at 14, it will select applicants using non-academic admissions criteria, as is the case currently in the majority of schools.
Free School Meals
Mr M Brady asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number; and (ii) the percentage, of school children in each Education and Library Board area who are not accessing their entitlement to free school meals; and to outline the action her department is taking to ensure that all children entitled to free school meals receive them.
(AQO 2513/08)
Ms C Ruane: Figures on the entitlement and uptake of free school meals have been taken from the 2007 School Census and 2007 School Meals Census, conducted in October. The figures are as follows:-
| Pupils Entitled to Free School Meals |
|---|