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 25 April 2008
Written Answers to Questions
Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister
Agriculture and Rural Development
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Education
Employment and Learning
Enterprise, Trade and Investment
Environment
Finance and Personnel
Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Regional Development
Social Development
Assembly Commission
OFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER
Integrated Development Fund
Mr F McCann asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what arrangements it has made to extend the Integrated Development Fund pilot scheme.
(AQO 1500/08)
The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness): The future of the Integrated Development Fund (IDF) was considered as part of the broader work on central cross cutting programme funds, in the context of the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) 2007 process. As a result of these considerations the Northern Ireland Executive’s Budget, Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland and Programme for Government covering the years 2008-09 to 2010-11 do not contain a provision for further allocations to central funds, including the IDF. This is on the basis that if the individual projects supported under these funds are considered to be of significant value then the funding provision should be “mainstreamed” by the relevant Departments, rather than being managed centrally. In these circumstances, there are no plans to review the IDF pilot scheme.
Funding for the outstanding IDF projects committed to in principle will be submitted for approval on a case by case basis, subject to the provision and approval of the required economic appraisals for the respective projects.
Integrated Development Fund
Mr P Maskey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what plans it has to review the Integrated Development Fund.
(AQO 1501/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The future of the Integrated Development Fund (IDF) was considered as part of the broader work on central cross cutting programme funds, in the context of the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) 2007 process. As a result of these considerations the Northern Ireland Executive’s Budget, Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland and Programme for Government covering the years 2008-09 to 2010-11 do not contain a provision for further allocations to central funds, including the IDF. This is on the basis that if the individual projects supported under these funds are considered to be of significant value then the funding provision should be “mainstreamed” by the relevant Departments, rather than being managed centrally. In these circumstances, there are no plans to review the IDF pilot scheme.
Funding for the outstanding IDF projects committed to in principle will be submitted for approval on a case by case basis, subject to the provision and approval of the required economic appraisals for the respective projects.
Flash Flooding
Mr Kennedy asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the steps being taken by the Civil Contingency Policy Branch to deal with the threat of regular flash flooding.
(AQW 4926/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The role of the Civil Contingencies Policy Branch (CCPB) is to promote effective civil contingencies policy and development across the public sector. There is a well-established “lead department principle” which means that departments are responsible for civil contingencies within their policy sectors. Responsibility for preparing for and responding to coastal and river flooding rests with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD); and responsibility for preparing for and responding to other types of flooding rests with the Department for Regional Development (DRD).
As part of its role in promoting effective civil contingencies development across the public sector, CCPB facilitated a review of the response to the June 2007 flooding on behalf of the Executive and is about to establish a multi-agency Severe Weather Group. The objectives of the group will be to assess the current capability of public services in Northern Ireland to respond to a severe weather incident and identify actions which could further strengthen resilience. The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has agreed to chair the Severe Weather Group.
CO2 Emissions
Mr S Wilson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the steps being taken to reduce CO2 emissions.
(AQW 4929/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Sustainable Development Strategy for Northern Ireland and its associated Implementation Plan contain a target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% below 1990 levels by 2025.
Lead responsibility for achievement of this target lies with the Department of the Environment, with contributions being made by the Department of Finance and Personnel, the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment, and by other Departments.
Actions are being taken in areas which include:
- Review of the NICS estate to determine suitable, and cost effective, renewables technology installations in public buildings by DFP;
- Implementation of the Northern Ireland Strategic Energy Framework by DETI;
- Schemes designed to support household energy efficiency by DSD; and
- Policy development in the area of transport emissions by DRD.
Commissioner for Children and Young People
Miss McIlveen asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the budget that has been allocated to the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People (i) in each of the last 3 years; and (ii) for each of the next 3 years.
(AQW 5139/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The budget allocation for the Commissioner for Children and Young People in each of the last three years (2005-08) was £1,897,000 per annum.
The Budget allocation for each of the next three years is as follows:
- 08/09 - £1,853,000
- 09/10 - £1,806,000
- 10/11 - £1,762,000
The year on year reduction relates to efficiency measures which have been applied to the administration element of the Commissioner’s budget.
This allocation is without prejudice to the outcomes of the Commissioner’s Article 24 Review of the Commissioner for Children and Young People (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 and the Deloitte Review on the effectiveness of the Commissioner for Children and Young People for Northern Ireland.
Sub Group on Children
Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the number of meetings of the Ministerial sub group on children that have been held; and (ii) the dates of those meetings.
(AQW 5349/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Ministerial Sub-Committee on Children and Young People has held two meetings to date. The meetings were held on 13 March 2008 and 10 April 2008.
Deloitte and Touche Research
Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the cost of commissioning the Deloitte and Touche research into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide.
(AQW 5852/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The cost of commissioning Deloitte to conduct the research into the financial cost of the Northern Ireland divide was £86,244. This cost was incurred during direct rule. A further £4,183 was spent on printing copies of the research report for circulation to Assembly Members.
Rural Proofing
Mr McKay asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail its plans to ensure that all departmental policies are rural-proofed.
(AQW 5867/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: OFMDFM has developed a Policy Toolkit containing practical guidance for all Departments on the wide range of impact assessments, including rural proofing. Officials in OFMDFM apply the guidance provided in the development of policy.
Disciplinary Procedures
Mr Savage asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the number of staff in their department who, since 8 May 2007, have (i) received official warnings; and (ii) faced disciplinary procedures.
(AQW 6044/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Since 8 May 2007, 17 staff have received official warnings and one member of staff has faced disciplinary procedures.
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
Forest Service Staff
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the percentage of Forest Service staff who were transferred to the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise in 2006, that have been on long-term sick leave in the last two years.
(AQW 5483/08)
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): The percentage of staff who were transferred to the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise in 2006, that have been on long-term sick leave in the last two years is 100% (2 staff transferred and both were on long-term sick leave).
Staff Meetings
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of occasions on which the department's personnel section has arranged meetings with members of staff in canteens, with the potential of members of the public being present, in each year since 2004; and to give her assessment of this practice.
(AQW 5484/08)
Ms M Gildernew: There are no records kept of such meetings since these are held on an ad-hoc basis. I am aware that some meetings do take place in canteens but these are infrequent and held in discreet areas with the agreement of the individual(s) concerned. I see no difficulty in this practice provided all parties are in agreement with the meeting arrangements and the location, and where there is no potential for anyone to overhear or disturb the meeting.
I can advise that both formal and informal meetings are held in designated conference or interview rooms.
Staff Suspension
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to confirm if a member of staff is suspended from work for one working day, is it normal practice for the member of staff to be escorted from the workplace and stripped of personal assets owned by the department (such as mobile telephones, keys, etc.).
(AQW 5485/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Where a decision has been taken to suspend an officer, for whatever period, it is normal practice to discreetly escort the officer from the workplace. Immediately prior to this the officer will be asked to hand over all items/equipment in their possession which are Departmental property. Examples include mobile telephones, keys, security passes, IT equipment.
Townland Names
Mr Ford asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the action her department is taking to use townland names, where applicable, in view of the resolution passed by the first Assembly on 1 October 2001.
(AQW 5538/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My Department recognises the historic, cultural and linguistic importance of townland names and uses them where applicable in its documents and correspondence.
Generating Energy
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to provide an update on her department's policy on generating energy from waste.
(AQW 5555/08)
Ms M Gildernew: As outlined in the Renewable Energy Action Plan my Department recognises the opportunities presented by generating energy from agri-food waste.
The Department recognise that renewable energy technologies will create opportunities for livestock farmers as assessed and reported by the Expert Group on Alternative Use of Manures in March 2006.
Currently my Department are exploring the potential to develop an Energy from Agri-Food Waste Challenge Fund. An Agricultural Stakeholder Forum on Renewable Energy and a number of studies currently underway will inform the development of this fund.
The Agri-Food and Bio-Sciences Institute (AFBI) has a key role to play in the development of a Renewable Energy Centre of scientific excellence at AFBI Hillsborough. A dedicated programme of research will support the continued development of renewable energy options appropriate to the land based sector in the North.
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) continue to deliver tailored education, training and technology transfer programmes to those entering and within the industry in the areas of energy efficiency and renewable energy deployment.
DARD work closely with DETI on renewable energy, there have been and will be continue to be numerous contacts between the two Departments at official level to ensure a co-ordinated approach to the development of renewable energy.
Farming Industry
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of times she has met formally with representatives of the farming industry since assuming office in May 2007.
(AQW 5569/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I have met with representatives of the farming industry on 70 occasions in my capacity as Minister since May 2007.
Forest Service
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail how much notice (in working days) was given to employees transferred from the Forest Service to the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise in 2006.
(AQW 5576/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Those Forest Service staff, who transferred to the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise in 2006, received formal transfer notes on their last working day 30 March 2006, before the effective date of transfer, 3 April 2006. However the staff had been aware of the likelihood of transfer for several months and had been verbally informed of the decision to transfer the training function from Forest Service to College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise approximately three weeks prior to the receipt of formal transfer notes. The planned date of transfer was known by the staff at least four working days before receipt of the formal note of transfer.
Katesbridge Farm Raid
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if her department was aware that those who were responsible for the farm near Katesbridge that was raided by the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Friday 4 April 2008, had convictions for animal cruelty and were banned from keeping livestock.
(AQW 5582/08)
Ms M Gildernew: This case is currently under investigation by the PSNI, assisted by veterinary and enforcement staff from my Department. While I cannot speculate on who was responsible, my Department is aware of animal welfare convictions and disqualifications applying to a number of people associated with the holding in Katesbridge. One person was convicted and disqualified as recently as 28 March 2008.
Animal Exports
Mr T Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of live animal exports from the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland that subsequently went straight to slaughter, in each of the last five years.
(AQW 5602/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The following table summarises the number of live animals exported from the North. As DARD only records figures for exports from the North the relevant Departments in the South and Britain were asked to provide figures for their jurisdictions. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF), Dublin have advised that they can only provide figures for 2008 exports to date. However, whilst a very limited set of figures can be produced they could not be provided within the timescale of this Assembly Question. The Department for environment, food and rural affairs (Defra), London have advised that they do not hold the figures requested.
Year |
No of direct slaughter exports from the North (including to Britain) |
|---|---|
2003 |
350,406 |
2004 |
359,847 |
2005 |
212,376 |
2006 |
331,621 |
2007 |
333,861 |
| 2008 (Up to 11 April) | 66,532 |
Tank Costs
Mr T Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 5081/08, if the actual costs agreed by a chartered quantity surveyor in relation to these tanks should be reviewed, and to confirm that farmers should not be penalised on account of the length of time it takes her department to deliver.
(AQW 5609/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The Department does not intend to review actual costs agreed by a chartered quantity surveyor as the revision of upper limits for items would be inconsistent and would allow inflation on some aspects of projects and not others.
I am aware that farmers have had to absorb the cost of inflation in their projects. However, I would emphasise that this is not due to any processing delay by the Department following my securing of budget last June.
Budget is available to ensure that all farmers who applied have an opportunity for grant and the budget secured was based on costs at application. Since receiving assurance of the budget availability I am pleased to note that my Department has made significant progress in delivering this scheme.
Farm Nutrient Management Scheme
Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the estimated number of farmers who do not meet the required storage capacity for slurry following the ending of the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme.
(AQW 5618/08)
Ms M Gildernew: It is estimated that some 18,700 farms either have sufficient existing slurry storage or are planning to invest in additional storage through the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme (FNMS) to meet the minimum slurry storage requirement of the Nitrates Directive Action Programme.
The remaining 8000 farms had the option of applying to the FNMS and did not. It is likely that these are smaller farms with relatively extensive farming practices. They may chose to reduce stock numbers, rent additional storage off farm or change farm management practices to meet the minimum slurry storage requirement.
The exact number of farmers who do not meet the minimum slurry storage requirement in future will depend on a range of variable factors including the storage available to them either on or off farm, livestock numbers and farm management practices.
Replanted Woodland
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the amount of land, in hectares, where woodland was replanted in each of the last 3 years.
(AQW 5621/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The area of Forest Service forest replanted in each of the last 3 years is set out below.
2004/2005 903 hectares
2005/2006 840 hectares
2006/2007 750 hectares
In addition, 233 hectares of the estate is currently under re-establishment by natural regeneration.
Fishing Industry
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of times she has formally met with representatives of the fishing industry since May 2008.
(AQW 5656/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Since May 2007 I have met with representatives of the fishing industry on 13 occasions.
Flood Protection Measures
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the amount she has invested in flood protection measures, broken down by (i) parliamentary constituency; and (ii) local government district, over each of the last five years.
(AQW 5659/08)
Ms M Gildernew: DARD, Rivers Agency as the statutory drainage and flood defence authority for Northern Ireland provides flood protection measures in relation to flooding from rivers and the sea.
Rivers Agency does not hold the amounts invested in flood protection measures broken down by parliamentary constituency. The figures set out below detail the capital expenditure on flood defence schemes over the last five calendar years by District Council area.
| District Council Area | 2003 | 2004 | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| £ | £ | £ | £ | £ | |
| Antrim | 1,244,051 |
258,646 |
41,928 |
6,583 |
16,372 |
| Ards | 64,332 |
48,221 |
3,477 |
||
| Armagh | 65,193 |
35,318 |
|||
| Ballymena | 145,800 |
133,143 |
102,189 |
11,611 |
330 |
| Banbridge | 14,371 |
263,877 |
216,872 |
38,673 |
39,358 |
| Belfast | 279,791 |
18,710 |
375 |
7,299 |
|
| Carrickfergus | 220,880 |
24,842 |
203,119 |
||
| Coleraine | 17,310 |
89,996 |
541,840 |
50,120 |
26,393 |
| Cookstown | 700 |
||||
| Craigavon | 378,282 |
314,165 |
16,556 |
694 |
12,872 |
| Derry | 35,360 |
543,076 |
374,014 |
5,994 |
13,361 |
| Down | 377,060 |
672,544 |
217,029 |
47,264 |
|
| Dungannon | 68,494 |
2,286 |
|||
| Fermanagh | 235,581 |
706,452 |
777,302 |
1,418,942 |
602,517 |
| Larne | 52,345 |
25,884 |
345 |
1,628 |
|
| Limavady | 172,830 |
234,093 |
67,475 |
972 |
12,615 |
| Lisburn | 11,010 |
198,395 |
279,574 |
457,340 |
333,153 |
| Magherafelt | 164,755 |
15,926 |
101,280 |
74,824 |
397,183 |
| Newry & Mourne | 458,475 |
874,617 |
1,482,690 |
3,548,136 |
1,227,008 |
| Newtownabbey | 2,140 |
236,515 |
20,410 |
6,215 |
1,819 |
| North Down | 513 |
85,747 |
14,058 |
922 |
82 |
| Strabane | 274,167 |
188,434 |
2,875 |
||
| Totals | 3,905,679 |
4,650,561 |
4,715,461 |
5,863,941 |
2,942,374 |
In addition the Rivers Agency undertakes an annual maintenance programme of designated watercourses, sea defences and grilles to minimise the risk of flooding. The maintenance costs for the last five financial years are detailed below. These figures are not held by parliamentary constituency or by District Council area.
2002/03 £'000 |
2003/04 £'000 |
2004/05 £'000 |
2005/06 £'000 |
2006/07 £'000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2485 |
3978 |
2861 |
2118 |
1567 |
Bulls Imported
Mr Armstrong asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of bulls imported in each of the last six months, broken down by breed and age.
(AQW 5709/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The number of bulls imported in each of the last six months and in April to date are shown in the table below:
| Month of import | Breed | Number imported 30 months of age or under |
Number imported over 30 months of age |
|---|---|---|---|
October |
Charolais | 16 |
1 |
| Salers | 0 |
1 |
|
| Aberdeen-Angus | 7 |
0 |
|
| Friesian | 1 |
0 |
|
| Hereford | 3 |
0 |
|
| Limousin | 8 |
0 |
|
| Parthenais | 1 |
0 |
|
| Shorthorn | 1 |
0 |
|
| Simmental | 5 |
0 |
|
November |
Charolais | 5 |
2 |
| Salers | 1 |
0 |
|
| Aberdeen-Angus | 3 |
0 |
|
| Friesian | 1 |
0 |
|
| Limousin | 4 |
0 |
|
| Holstein | 2 |
0 |
|
| Montbeliarde | 2 |
0 |
|
| Simmental | 4 |
0 |
|
December |
Charolais | 11 |
0 |
| Friesian | 3 |
1 |
|
| Hereford | 0 |
1 |
|
| Limousin | 10 |
1 |
|
| Holstein | 14 |
0 |
|
| Montbeliarde | 2 |
0 |
|
| Simmental | 2 |
0 |
|
| Maine Anjou | 1 |
0 |
|
| Ayrshire | 2 |
0 |
|
| Belted Galloway | 1 |
0 |
|
| Galloway | 0 |
1 |
|
January |
Charolais | 2 |
1 |
| Aberdeen-Angus | 2 |
0 |
|
| Friesian | 4 |
0 |
|
| Limousin | 1 |
0 |
|
| Holstein | 21 |
2 |
|
| Shorthorn | 0 |
1 |
|
| Montbeliarde | 1 |
0 |
|
| Ayrshire | 1 |
0 |
|
| Belted Galloway | 2 |
0 |
|
| Galloway | 1 |
0 |
|
| Blonde D’Aquitaine | 1 |
0 |
|
| Danish Red | 1 |
0 |
|
| Jersey | 2 |
0 |
|
February |
Charolais | 10 |
0 |
| Salers | 2 |
0 |
|
| Aberdeen-Angus | 2 |
0 |
|
| Friesian | 2 |
1 |
|
| Hereford | 1 |
0 |
|
| Limousin | 13 |
0 |
|
| Holstein | 2 |
0 |
|
| Shorthorn | 1 |
0 |
|
| Montbeliarde | 2 |
0 |
|
| Simmental | 3 |
1 |
|
| Ayrshire | 2 |
0 |
|
| Belted Galloway | 0 |
1 |
|
| Belgian Blue | 2 |
1 |
|
| Blue Albion | 1 |
0 |
|
| Lincoln Red | 1 |
0 |
|
| Longhorn | 1 |
0 |
|
March |
Charolais | 15 |
1 |
| Aberdeen-Angus | 6 |
0 |
|
| Friesian | 5 |
0 |
|
| Hereford | 1 |
0 |
|
| Limousin | 16 |
0 |
|
| Holstein | 4 |
0 |
|
| Simmental | 2 |
0 |
|
| Blonde D’Aquitaine | 1 |
0 |
|
| Belgian Blue | 4 |
0 |
|
April (to date) |
Charolais | 2 |
0 |
| Aberdeen-Angus | 2 |
0 |
|
| Hereford | 1 |
0 |
|
| Limousin | 10 |
0 |
|
| Blond D’Aquitaine | 1 |
0 |
Rural Proofing
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she plans to introduce legislation which would make it mandatory for all departmental policies to be rural-proofed.
(AQW 5720/08)
Ms M Gildernew: As set out in the Programme for Government I am currently looking at reinvigorating the rural proofing process and defining the role of a rural champion. The Programme for government also outlines my intention to develop a Rural White Paper and these important initiatives will help ensure that rural issues are given due consideration within Government. My Department will be consulting later this year on how rural proofing can be enhanced and the issue of a legislative base will be considered as part of that consultation.
Fishing Industry
Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to estimate the value the fishing industry to the Northern Ireland economy.
(AQW 5766/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Provisional figures for 2007 estimate the value of sea fish landed into our ports at £20.5m.
For the fish processing sector the latest data available is for 2005. In that year gross turnover was £77.9 million.
Farmimg and Fishing Figures
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail, for the 2006-07 financial year, (i) the total number of farmers; (ii) the total amount paid out by her department in the form of Single-Farm payments; (iii) the number of fishing boats registered at ports; and (iv) the total amount of funding made available to the fishing industry through the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance.
(AQW 5824/08)
Ms M Gildernew: £220.79m (excluding modulation) was paid to 39,426 farmers in respect of Single Farm Payments for the 2006 scheme year.
Figures for the number of fishing boats registered at ports is only available on a calendar year basis and is outlined below:-
2006 - 326 boats
2007 - 321 boats.
The total amount of funding made available to the fishing industry through the Financial Instrument for Fisheries Guidance was £26.54m of which £5.55m was committed during 2006/07.
Single Farm Payments
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of Single Farm Payments that are still outstanding in the Strangford constituency.
(AQW 5859/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Single Farm Payment (SFP) Branch (The Department) does not hold SFP details on a constituency basis. The data is currently held by county/postcode.
Woodland Planting
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the action she is taking to address the shortfall in woodland planting and targets not being met.
(AQW 5865/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The Forest Service has met its targets to establish new plantations in the public and private sector combined over the previous three years. The targets and outturn of new woodland area created are as follows:
| Year | Target | Outturn |
|---|---|---|
| 2007-2008 | 550 ha of new plantation including 100 ha of Short Rotation Coppice |
552 ha of new plantation including 275 ha of Short Rotation Coppice |
| 2006-2007 | 500 ha of new plantation including 100ha of Short Rotation Coppice |
549 ha of new plantation including 195 ha of Short Rotation coppice |
| 2005-2006 | 500 ha of new plantation |
606 ha of new plantation |
Forest Service will continue to provide grant aid and advice to encourage the creation of new woodlands and the sustainable management of existing woodland through the forestry measures in the Rural Development Programme.
This year, Forest Service also intends to improve the awareness among farmers and landowners of the benefits of woodland creation through a series of events and media opportunities.
Abattoir in Downpatrick
Mr Wells asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the contact her department has had with the Planning Service in relation to the planning application for an abattoir in Downpatrick, lodged by Finnebrogue Venison.
(AQW 5873/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Ian Pearson, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, liaised with Angela Smith - former Minister responsible for the Planning Service - in January 2005 to ascertain if the Planning Service had taken into account the potential economic consequences when considering the planning application and the subsequent appeal.
My Department officials involved in the administration of project claims have been in regular contact with the Planning Service in relation to the Finnebrogue project. This is in a general capacity to determine if planning approval has been granted. This information has been used to inform budget profiling for the scheme.
Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings
Mr Bresland asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to provide an update of the progress that has been made in the implementation of the Rural Development Programme, particularly measure 1.3 - 'Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings'.
(AQW 5892/08)
Ms M Gildernew: You will be aware that the objective of Axis 1 of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (NIRDP) is to improve the competitiveness of the agricultural and forestry sectors by supporting restructuring, development and innovation. The total budget of the Axis is approximately £45 million, and Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings is supported under measure 1.3.
Axis 1 also supports: measure 1.1, Vocational Training and Information Actions; measure 1.2, Adding Value to Agricultural and Forestry Products and Improving Marketing Capability; and measure 1.4, the Supply Chain Development Programme.
An economic appraisal of Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings is currently being carried out by external consultants. That should be completed by the end of April, after which it will require clearance from my Resource and Economics Branch and the Department of Finance and Personnel.
My officials are working on the terms of reference and operating guidelines necessary to appoint a third-party delivery agent to administer the scheme. A list of eligible items of equipment that will attract the grant and lead to modernisation across all farming sectors is also being prepared. Those documents cannot be finalised until the economic appraisal process is complete, but I expect that the measure will be open in full for applications before the end of 2008.
Regarding measure 2.1, I can confirm that Less Favoured Area Compensatory Allowances for both 2007 and 2008 have been paid under the new programme.
Measure 2.2, the Agri-environment Programme, will be delivered through the new and improved Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) and the Organic Farming Scheme. Legislation passed through the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee on 8 April. Scheme literature and computer delivery mechanisms for the NICMS are at an advanced stage of development. It is anticipated that the NICMS will open to applications in late spring or early summer 2008.
There are three forestry measures in the NIRDP. All are open for applications, and some existing commitments have been carried forward from the previous programme. Short Rotation Coppice (SRC) is part of measure 1.3, Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings. The establishment of SRC under the measure is designed to assist the development of wider renewable energy markets. Approximately 270 hectares of SRC were planted last year, with a further 122 hectares approved for planting in 2008.
The aim of Measure 2.3, First Afforestation, is to promote a steady expansion of tree cover to increase the diverse benefits that forests provide. Approximately 287 hectares were planted under the measure last year.
Measure 2.4, Forest Environments, grant-aids environmental improvements to existing woodland, for example, control of the rhododendron and replanting a greater range of tree species after harvesting to encourage biodiversity. Approximately 87 hectares were grant-aided under the measure.
Axis 3, quality-of-life measures, of the NIRDP, which aim to improve the quality of life in rural areas and encourage diversification of the rural economy, will be delivered by seven Joint Council Clusters, each in partnership with a newly appointed Local Action Groups (LAG). The Axis 3 has been allocated £100 million of funding, within which up to (20%) may be utilised for local animation and support of the bottom up (Leader) delivery mechanisms stipulated by the EU.
The animation activity necessary to stimulate the new cluster areas is mostly completed. The Ards Cluster has selected a Local Action Group while Antrim and Cookstown have opened calls for their Local Action Groups. Ballymena and Omagh intend making their call this week and Armagh cluster has commenced animation of its area. I anticipate that my Department will open a call for development strategies at the beginning of May and the closing date for completed strategies will be 31st July.
Cappagh Burn
Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to confirm if she will instruct her department to designate Cappagh Burn, and immediately engage in the maintenance of this water course.
(AQW 5924/08)
Ms M Gildernew: DARD is not responsible for designation of watercourses. The designation of watercourses for maintenance by DARD Rivers Agency, at public expense, is determined by the Drainage Council for Northern Ireland as provided for under the terms of the Drainage (NI) Order 1973.
Proposals for designation of watercourses should meet objective criteria whereby intervention at public expense is justified and these guide Rivers Agency in making recommendations to the Drainage Council. Rivers Agency has no plans to submit proposals to the Drainage Council to consider designation of the Cappagh Burn as maintenance is considered to be within the capabilities of riparian landowners.
It is open to any person to make a submission to the Drainage Council requesting designation of a watercourse.
Killyclogher Burn
Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail her department’s plans to conduct a survey of the Killyclogher Burn, with a view to generating measures that will protect the river bank from erosion.
(AQW 5925/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The Department carries out annual inspections of this watercourse and the latest inspection did not indicate that any structures were affected by erosion of the river bank. The level of expenditure to provide further bank protection to the properties at Knock-na-moe Bunglows could not be justified under benefit – cost considerations.
Killyclogher Burn
Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to provide (i) an update on the survey carried out on Branch B of the Killyclogher Burn, affecting the Knock-Na-Moe Bungalows; and (ii) an indicative timeline for the completion of remedial works at this location.
(AQW 5926/08)
Ms M Gildernew: The survey carried out on Branch B of the Killyclogher Burn at Knock-Na–Moe Bungalows has indicated several structural deficiencies in the watercourse culvert that require remedial works. Cost beneficial options for the remedial works to address flooding are currently being considered and the preferred option for the works will be submitted to the Drainage Council for consideration at a future meeting. Subject to Drainage Council acceptance, the works will be prioritised in the Rivers Agency works programme for 2009/2010.
Seed Potato
Mr Irwin asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to provide a timescale within which her department will be in a position to open a tendering process for (i) companies; and (ii) individuals to bid to become a marketing partner in relation to the new varieties of seed potato developed by the Northern Ireland Horticultural and Plant Breeding Station, Loughall.
(AQW 6249/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I have indicated that I would like to continue to support the public/private potato breeding partnership at AFBI, Loughgall. My officials are currently working up options and costings.
I know that the potato industry works to an annual cycle and so I aim to have any future partnership(s) in place for this year’s harvest. With this in mind, I hope to make further contact with industry in the coming weeks.
Seed Potato
Mr Irwin asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, in light of the Quinn/Ultimo reviews on the need for new varieties of seed potato, to detail the steps she has taken to bring to market the stream of new varieties produced within the last 5 years.
(AQW 6251/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My officials have worked to withdraw the commercialisation rights of the Loughgall potato varieties from the Department’s previous commercial partner. All rights to these varieties currently rest with DARD/AFBI. At the present time DARD/AFBI have not decided what to do with the commercialisation rights to these varieties. One possible option would be to assign these to any new commercial partner(s).
Neighbourhood Renewal Areas
Mrs McGill asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail, in addition to her department's mainstream responsibilities, the resources that have been allocated to (i) Neighbourhood Renewal Areas; and (ii) the Strabane Neighbourhood Renewal Area, in each of the last 2 years.
(AQW 6285/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Neighbourhood Renewal Areas were defined under the Department for Social Development's Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy. This strategy targets the 36 most deprived urban areas over which my Department has no remit.
CULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE
Loyal Orders
Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the steps he is taking to assist the Loyal Orders in accessing Government support.
(AQW 5608/08)
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr E Poots): In order to assist Loyal Orders in accessing Government support, the Department has set up a liaison group to facilitate dialogue with both Bands Associations and Loyal Orders. The liaison group will take the lead in identifying current and potential sources of public sector support for Loyal Orders. This will include highlighting areas of existing good practice which might be replicated in other areas.
Also, the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland has, over the last two years, assisted the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland by visiting and providing preservation advice on records at Schomberg House, piloting digitisation of a sample of records held by Lodges and offering on-going advice on storage, preservation and access matters.
Rural Proofing
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail his plans to ensure that all departmental policies are rural-proofed.
(AQW 5797/08)
Mr E Poots: All DCAL policies are proofed, or have their impact assessed against a wide range of criteria including: equality, environmental, regulatory and rural tests. The Department makes use of the Integrated Impact Assessment tool (IIA) in undertaking the various assessment processes.
Protestant Working Class Communities
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to confirm whether he intends to continue to fund programmes recommended by the Taskforce on Protestant Working Class Communities.
(AQW 5835/08)
Mr E Poots: The Renewing Communities programme was supported by a 2 year funding package which ended in March 2008. The Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure has not provided funds to continue the pilot projects beyond that date.
The Re-Imaging Communities programme will continue with funding provided by the Arts Council, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the International Fund for Ireland. This programme is open to all communities.
Shooting Sports
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the assistance he is giving to shooting sports in their preparation for the 2012 London Olympic Games.
(AQW 5899/08)
Mr E Poots: Responsibility for assisting shooting sports in their preparation for the 2012 London Olympic Games rests, in the first instance, with the governing bodies of the sports. Sport Northern Ireland , however, which is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding, administers the Athlete Support Programme which provides athletes with financial support to train, compete and access a range of support services such as coaching, sports science and sports medicine.
Shooting Sports
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the incentives his department can offer beginners to the sport of shooting, in preparation of the 2012 London Olympic Games.
(AQW 5900/08)
Mr E Poots: Responsibility for providing incentives to beginners to the sport of shooting rests, in the first instance, with the governing bodies of the sports. Sport Northern Ireland (SNI), which is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding, invests in governing bodies through its lottery and exchequer budgets. In terms of shooting sports, any SNI participation programmes will fall under the remit of the respective shooting governing bodies.
Departmental Funding
Mr McCarthy asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail (i) the funding his department has provided to (a) POBAL; and (b) the Ulster-Scots Agency; and (ii) the date on which these 2 organisations last submitted an annual report and accounts to his department.
(AQW 5905/08)
Mr E Poots: My Department has not provided funding to POBAL nor has it received any annual reports and accounts from the organisation.
As part of the North South Language Body, the Ulster-Scots Agency has received the following funding from DCAL:-
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
£0.5m |
£0.97m |
£1.07m |
£1.16m |
£1.34m |
£1.36m |
£1.61m |
£1.93m |
The annual reports and accounts from the Ulster-Scots Agency are consolidated and published with those for Foras na Gaeilge as the North South Language Body (NSLB). The last agreed published consolidated annual report and account for the NSLB was for the 2003 year.
Departmental Funding
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail, for the 2008-09 financial year, the funding allocated by his department to sports and recreation clubs in the East Antrim constituency.
(AQW 5938/08)
Mr E Poots: Sport Northern Ireland is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. Details of the exchequer funding allocated to sports and recreation clubs in the East Antrim constituency for the 2008/09 financial year are as follows:
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project title |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2008/09 |
Larne Bowling and Lawn Tennis Club |
Club house facilities |
520,000 |
Departmental Funding
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail, since May 2007, the funding allocated by his department to sports and recreation clubs in the East Antrim constituency.
(AQW 5939/08)
Mr E Poots: Sport Northern Ireland is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. Details of the exchequer funding allocated to sports and recreation clubs in the East Antrim constituency since May 2007 are as follows:
| Year |
Applicant Organisation | Project title | Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008/09 | Larne Bowling and Lawn Tennis Club 112-120 Glenarm Road Larne BT40 1DZ |
Club house facilities |
520,000 |
Departmental Funding
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the funding he has allocated to sports and recreation clubs in North Down parliamentary constituency for 2008/2009.
(AQW 5992/08)
Mr E Poots: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. SNI has advised that, to date, no exchequer funding has been allocated to sports and recreation clubs in the North Down parliamentary constituency for 2008/2009.
Staff Absent
Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail, for each of the last 5 years, the number of staff in his department that were absent due to stress for more than (i) 5 days; (ii) 10 days; (iii) 15 days; (iv) 20 days; (v) 25 days; (vi) 30 days; (vii) 35 days; and (viii) 40 days, broken down by grade.
(AQW 6010/08)
Mr E Poots:
| YEAR | Number of Staff Absent with Work Related Stress |
|---|---|
| 2003 | None |
| 2004 | None |
| 2005 | 1 Staff Officer or analogous absent more than 10 days |
| 2006 | 1 Administrative Officer or analogous absent more than 10 days |
| 2007 | 1 Administrative Officer or analogous absent more than 5 days 1 Staff Officer or analogous absent more than 10 days 1 Staff Officer or analogous absent more than 30 days 1 Deputy Principal or analogous absent more than 40 days |
Armagh Observatory
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the funding available for the Armagh Observatory.
(AQW 6012/08)
Mr E Poots: In 2008/09 the funding available for the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is as follows:
Revenue: £1.3m
Minor capital: £0.05m
Cost of capital and depreciation: £0.511m
Total: 1.861m
It is a matter for the Board of Governors of the Armagh Observatory and Planetarium to decide what proportion of that funding to allocate to the Armagh Observatory.
Football Grounds
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, further to AQW 5059/08, when the Health and Safety improvements for football grounds will commence.
(AQW 6015/08)
Mr E Poots: Responsibility for commencing health and safety improvements at football grounds rests, in the first instance, with the owners of the grounds. Sport Northern Ireland (SNI), however, which is responsible for the development of sport including the distribution of funding, has been assisting owners implement health and safety improvements for some time through the Interim Safe Sports Grounds Scheme and the Stadia Safety Programme. This work is ongoing.
Maze Stadium
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail (i) the amount of money allocated towards a new stadium; (ii) when this money was allocated towards a new stadium; (iii) if this money is ringfenced for a new stadium; (iv) if this money is conditional on the new stadium being located at the Maze/Long Kesh site; and (v) whether this money could be used for a new stadium at a site other than the Maze/Long Kesh site
(AQW 6045/08)
Mr E Poots: An indicative allocation of £70 million has been made in the current budget period of 2008/09 to 2010/11 for the proposed Multi-Sports Stadium. The Outline Business Case, which presents a number of options on the Stadium, is presently being considered by the Department of Finance and Personnel. In the event of a decision not to proceed with the stadium proposal, the Department will seek approval from the Executive to reassign this funding. The Department will look to other priorities, initially within Sport, and then within its other programmes to utilise this money
Sport NI
Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to provide an update on the progress of the recruitment process undertaken in relation to the appointment of a chairperson and vice-chairperson of Sport NI; and to detail (i) the reasons for the delay in making these appointments; and (ii) when these posts will be filled.
(AQW 6050/08)
Mr E Poots: An appointment process for the position of Chair to the Board of Sport NI is ongoing. The previous appointment process did not provide a sufficient range of candidates from which I could make a choice and I therefore decided to extend the competition.
I expect to appoint a Chair to the Board of Sport NI in July 2008.
Mr Dominic Walsh was appointed as Vice- Chair from 1 January 2008 and is currently Acting Chair.
Disciplinary Procedures
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the number of staff in his department who, since 8 May 2007, have (i) received official warnings; and (ii) faced disciplinary procedures.
(AQW 6141/08)
Mr E Poots: My Department has
(i) 14 staff who have received official warnings since 8 May 2007 however one was overturned on appeal.
(ii) No staff who faced disciplinary procedures.
Maze Stadium
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the amount of money spent by his department to date on proposals to have a Multi Sports stadium built at the Maze/Long Kesh site.
(AQW 6155/08)
Mr E Poots: My department has spent £ 3,397,835 to date on the proposals for a Multi-Sports Stadium. The large majority of this expenditure, £ 2,953,370 , has been incurred on stadium design. Business planning, Programme, Management and other consultancy costs account for the balance of £ 444,465 .
World Police and Fire Games
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to his answer to AQW 5356/08, to detail the proposals in the bid document relating to the opening and closing ceremonies for the World Police and Fire Games; and to confirm that these ceremonies are being held in the new stadium at the Maze/Long Kesh site.
(AQW 6165/08)
Mr E Poots: Further to my answer to AQW5356/08 I can confirm that the Belfast Bid Committee did state in their bid documentation that it was proposed that the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2013 World Police and Fire Games would be held at the proposed Multi-Sports Stadium at the Maze.However, I would emphasis that this was a proposal and it will be for those with responsibility for the delivery of the Games to finalise the arrangements for the opening and closing ceremonies.
2012 Olympics Games
Mr O'Dowd asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (i) to detail the current status of the Strategic Business Case for Elite Facilities Programme for the 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games; (ii) to give a timescale within which Stage Two of the programme will begin; and (iii) to give a timescale within which bidders will be advised of the success or otherwise of their applications.
(AQW 6203/08)
Mr E Poots: The Strategic Outline Business Case for the Elite Facilities Capital Programme has been approved and Sport Northern Ireland has begun work on the next stage of the competition. This includes preparing a revised timeline for the delivery of the programme and Sport Northern Ireland will be in contact with those short listed in the near future.
EDUCATION
Assembly Questions
Mr Buchanan asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of requests she has received from MLAs to have answers to written Assembly questions translated into Irish.
(AQW 4743/08)
The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane): I answer my questions in English and in Irish and I believe people should celebrate the diversity of language. Irish is the native language of Ireland and is protected and promoted in accordance with the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages. I take my statutory duties very seriously as I do my right to use the Irish language.
Is iomaí Comhalta de chuid an Tionóil seo a bhfuil an Ghaeilge luachmhar acu mar atá agamsa.
There are many Members of this Assembly who value Irish as I do.
Pay Award
Mr Cree asked the Minister of Education to provide an update on the current situation in relation to the pay award agreed with the joint negotiating council last year, and to give a timescale within which this payment will be implemented.
(AQW 5073/08)
Ms C Ruane: I n accordance with the agreed pay policy process business cases for the implementation of the pay award for Education sector staff were submitted by DE to the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) in late February/March. My officials are currently progressing these cases in conjunction with DFP.
Pay remits covering the majority of staff have been agreed and payment of the new rate and arrears will commence in April.
Déanfaidh oifigigh s’agamsa iarracht a chinntiú go socrófar gach seoltán pá neamhíoctha go gasta agus ar bhealach sásúil.
My officials will endeavour to ensure that all outstanding pay remits are brought to a speedy and satisfactory conclusion.
Educational Psychologists
Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of pupils waiting for referral to an educational psychologist from (a) primary level schools; and (b) secondary level schools, and (ii) the waiting time for such a referral in each Education and Library Board area.
(AQW 5149/08)
Ms C Ruane: I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the Education and Library Boards that the numbers of pupils at primary and secondary level schools waiting for referral to an educational psychologist is not available as this data would be held at school level and would involve a disproportionate amount of staff time and resources to obtain.
Dá bharr sin, níl an t-aga feithimh d'atreorú mar sin ar fáil ach an oiread. Dhíreoinn aird an chomhalta ar an fhreagra a thug mé do AQW 1314/08, ceist a chuir an Comhalta do Loch Cuan, Michelle McIlveen, síos agus a foilsíodh sa Tuarascáil Oifigiúil ar 9 Samhain 2007. Léiríonn an freagra sin cá fhad a bhí ar pháistí fanacht de ghnáth nuair a atreoraíodh iad le síceolaí oideachais a fheiceáil i ngach ceann de na cúig bliana acadúla dheireanacha.
Consequently the waiting time for such a referral is also not available. I would, however, refer the Member to my reply to AQW 1314/08, tabled by the Member for Strangford, Michelle McIlveen, and published in the Official Report on 9 November 2007 which details the average waiting time for assessment by an educational psychologist, for each of the last five academic years, once a child has actually been referred.
Bangor Grammar School
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education to detail her plans for the disposal of the Bangor Grammar School site when the school is moved to the Gransha Road, Bangor.
(AQW 5255/08)
Ms C Ruane: Ní leis an Roinn Oideachais an suíomh atá in úsáid ag Scoil Ghramadaí Bheannachair agus, dá thairbhe sin, oibreoidh an Roinn i gcomhpháirtíocht leis an scoil maidir leis an suíomh a chur de láimh nuair a bheas an scoil lonnaithe ar a suíomh úr.
The Department of Education does not own the site occupied by Bangor Grammar School and thus disposal of the site will be managed in conjunction with the school once it relocates to its new site.
Ballywalter Primary School
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to provide an update on the provision of a new school building for Ballywalter Primary School.
(AQW 5412/08)
Ms C Ruane: A necessary step before a project to replace a building can be considered eligible for capital funding, is that there is an approved economic appraisal between the Department and the relevant authority. The timescale for a scheme is also dependent on the availability of funding.
De réir mar a thuigim, tá sé ar intinn ag Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt (BOLOD) measúnú geilleagrach athbhreithnithe a chur faoi bhráid na Roinne sna seachtainí amach romhainn i ndiaidh dó aiseolas a fháil ón Roinn ar leagan a cuireadh isteach ní ba luaithe.
I understand that the South-Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) is planning to submit to the Department for consideration a revised economic appraisal within the next few weeks following comments on an earlier version from the Department.
Ballywalter Primary School
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to account for the delay in providing a new school building for Ballywalter Primary School.
(AQW 5413/08)
Ms C Ruane: A necessary step before a project to replace a building can be considered eligible for capital funding, is that there is an approved economic appraisal between the Department and the relevant authority. The timescale for a scheme is also dependent on the availability of funding.
De réir mar a thuigim, tá sé ar intinn ag Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt (BOLOD) measúnú geilleagrach athbhreithnithe a chur faoi bhráid na Roinne sna seachtainí amach romhainn i ndiaidh dó aiseolas a fháil ón Roinn ar leagan a cuireadh isteach ní ba luaithe.
I understand that the South-Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB) is planning to submit to the Department for consideration a revised economic appraisal within the next few weeks following comments on an earlier version from the Department.
Middletown Centre for Autism
Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQQW 4713/08, to name who her department consulted on the Middletown Centre for Autism, and where, when and in what form this consultation took place.
(AQW 5464/08)
Ms C Ruane: Dhíreoinn aird an Chomhalta ar fhreagraí a thug mise ar cheisteanna (AQWs) a cuireadh cheana. Soláthraíonn na freagraí sin sonraí den chomhairliúchán ar fad atá déanta ag an Roinn maidir le hIonad Uathachais Choillidh Chanannáin.
I would refer the member to my replies to previous AQWs which provide details of all consultation carried out by the Department regarding the Middletown Centre for Autism. These are AQW 29/08 – published 28 September 2007; AQW 777/08 – published 26 October 2007; AQW 778/08 & AQW 779/08 – published 2 November 2007. All of these AQWs were tabled by the Member for South Down, John McCallister.
Allegations Against Teachers
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of instances of pupils making allegations against teachers in each of the last five years; and (ii) the number of cases in which these allegations were proved to be false or unfounded.
(AQW 5471/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Department does not hold the information sought.
This information is held only by schools. A special exercise would be required to collect data on all allegations made against teachers by pupils and those subsequently deemed to be false or unfounded. This information once collected from schools would then need to be collated for presentation. There are no plans to undertake such an exercise.
Cuirtear comhairle ar an Roinn i gcás go gcuirtear múinteoir ar fionraí mar réamhchúram de bharr líomhna ina (h)aghaidh. Is féidir múinteoir a chur ar fionraí ar chúiseanna éagsúla, áfach, seachas imscrúdú a bheith ar bun mar go ndearna dalta líomhain.
The Department is advised when an allegation against a teacher has led to a precautionary suspension. However, such a suspension may be imposed for reasons other than the active investigation of an allegation made by a pupil.
Classroom Assistants
Mr Durkan asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each Education and Library Board area, (i) the number of classroom assistants by gender; and (ii) the number of male and female classroom assistants who are on permanent and temporary contracts respectively.
(AQW 5580/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh leagtha amach sa tábla thíos. Chuir na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlann an t-eolas sin ar fáil maidir le cuiditheoirí ranga a bhí fostaithe ag na Boird ar 1 Eanáir 2008.
The information requested is set out in the table below and has been provided by the Education and Library Boards in respect of classroom assistants employed by the Boards at 1 January 2008.
As some classroom assistants can have more than one contract, the figures are based on the number of contracts rather than the actual number of classroom assistants which total approximately 6,500.
Number of Classroom Assistants Contracts in the Education and Library Boards
at 1 January 2008 (broken down by gender and employment contract type)
| BELB |
WELB |
NEELB |
SEELB |
SELB |
||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male |
Female |
Male |
Female |
Male |
Female |
Male |
Female |
Male |
Female |
|||||||||||
| P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
P |
T |
|
| 12 |
35 |
370 |
643 |
7 |
12 |
1015 |
417 |
5 |
19 |
833 |
566 |
9 |
8 |
994 |
419 |
3 |
10 |
856 |
1226 |
|
| 47 |
1013 |
19 |
1432 |
24 |
1399 |
17 |
1413 |
13 |
2082 |
|||||||||||
| 1060 |
1451 |
1423 |
1430 |
2095 |
||||||||||||||||
Key
BELB: Belfast Education and Library Board
WELB: Western Education and Library Board
NEELB: North Eastern Education and Library Board
SEELB: South Eastern Education and Library Board
SELB: Southern Education and Library Board
P: Permanent contract
T: Temporary contract
Religious Education
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of teachers employed in primary schools who hold a certificate in religious education recognised by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools.
(AQW 5586/08)
Ms C Ruane: Thug Príomhfheidhmeannach Chomhairle na Scoileanna Caitliceacha faoi Chothabháil le fios go bhfuil teastas san Oideachas Réiligiúnach ag 3610 múinteoir in Earnáil na Bunscolaíochta .
The Chief Executive of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools has advised that there are 3610 teachers in possession of an RE certificate in the Primary Sector.
School Closure
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education if it is a legal requirement for the South Eastern Education and Library Board to fully consult with parents before deciding to recommend the closure of any school.
(AQW 5596/08)
Ms C Ruane: Any Education and Library Board proposing to close a school is required to publish a Development Proposal to support that intent. Article 14 of the Education and Libraries ( Northern Ireland ) Order 1986 is the primary statutory provision on the publication of development proposals. The publication of a Development Proposal initiates a two month consultation period on the proposal.
Sonraíonn Airteagal 24 de Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 an gá atá le comhairliúchán leis an Bhord Gobharnóirí, le múinteoirí agus le tuismitheoirí na ndaltaí atá cláraithe ag an scoil áirithe; ní mór an comhairliúchán sin a dhéanamh sula bhfoilsítear a dhath.
Article 24 of the Education and Libraries Order 2003, specifies the requirement, prior to publication, for consultation with the Board of Governors, teachers and parents of registered pupils at the school concerned.
Priority Written Questions
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the length of time it has taken, on average, for her to answer two-day priority written questions.
(AQW 5651/08)
Ms C Ruane: Ó cineachadh cumhacht chugainn d’fhreagair Roinn s’agamsa 67 ceist scríofa a raibh tosaíocht dhá lá acu. Ghlac sé 10 lá ar meán chun na ceisteanna sin a fhreagairt.
Since devolution my Department has answered 67 two-day priority written questions. The average time taken to answer these questions is 10 working days.
Killard Special School
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education to give a timescale within which the new build will commence for Killard Special school in Newtownards.
(AQW 5667/08)
Ms C Ruane: Chuir Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt an scéim chaipitiúil móroibreacha do Killard House ar athlá, go dtí go gcríochnófar an t-athbhreithniú reatha ar riachtanais speisialta oideachais, mar gur mian leo a chinntiú go bhfuil moladh s’acusan i gcomhréir le toradh an Athbhreithnithe.
The South Eastern Education and Library Board has placed the proposed capital major works scheme for Killard House on hold, pending the outcome of the current review of special educational needs, as they wish to ensure that their proposal is consistent with the outcome of the Review.
Newtonbreda Primary School
Ms Lo asked the Minister of Education to clarify the proposal to close Newtonbreda primary school in Belfast, given that amalgamation with other schools in the area could be an alternative to closure.
(AQW 5688/08)
Ms C Ruane: Newtownbreda is a controlled primary school within the remit of the South-Eastern Education and Library Board (SEELB).
The Board has advised that amalgamation is an option that they are considering but they are only at an early stage of consultation and have not as yet made any firm proposals on the future of this school.
Bheadh tacaíocht i bhfoirm moladh forbartha foilsithe de dhíth ar aon mholadh a thiocfas amach as an phróiseas seo. Beidh tréimhse reachtúil 2 mhí mar pháirt den phróiseas; is féidir le daoine teagmháil a dhéanamh leis an Roinn le linn na tréimhse sin le barúil a thabhairt nó le cur i gcoinne an mholta sula ndéanfar cinneadh.
Any proposal that does emerge from this process would require the support of a published development proposal. The process includes a statutory 2-month period during which comment or objection may be offered to my Department before a decision is made.
South Eastern Education and Library Board
Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Education to detail the mechanism for recruiting new independent board members to the South Eastern Education and Library Board.
(AQW 5723/08)
Ms C Ruane: General interest category board members are appointed through open competition. The Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986 requires that 3 of the general interest members must be teachers in grant-aided schools in the board area and 3 must have declared a specific interest in the public library service.
Athrinneadh Boird na mBord Oideachais agus Leabharlann i 2005 agus ceapadh comhaltaí le haghaidh tréimhse 4 bliana; tá an tréimhse sin le críochnú i 2009.
Boards of Education and Library Boards were last reconstituted in 2005 with members appointed for a 4 year term; this is due to end in 2009.
South Eastern Education and Library Board
Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Education to detail the cost of the Commissioners in the South Eastern Education and Library Board since July 2006.
(AQW 5725/08)
Ms C Ruane: Thug Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt le fios gurbh é £164,142 an tsuim iomlán, costais san áireamh, a d'íoc sé le Coimisiniéirí ó ceapadh iad ar 6 Iúil 2006 go dtí deireadh mhí Feabhra 2008.
The South Eastern Education and Library Board have advised that the total amount, including expenses, paid to the Commissioners since their appointment on 6 July 2006 until the end of February 2008 is £164,142.
Primary School Principals
Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) male; and (ii) female, primary school principals, broken down by Education and Library Board area.
(AQW 5907/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sa tábla thíos.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS | ||
|---|---|---|
| BOARD | GENDER | NUMBERS |
| FEMALE | 44 | |
| MALE | 37 | |
| BELB | TOTAL | 81 |
| FEMALE | 110 | |
| MALE | 69 | |
| WELB | TOTAL | 179 |
| FEMALE | 102 | |
| MALE | 100 | |
| NEELB | TOTAL | 202 |
| FEMALE | 56 | |
| MALE | 92 | |
| SEELB | TOTAL | 148 |
| FEMALE | 105 | |
| MALE | 113 | |
| SELB | TOTAL | 218 |
| PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS | ||
|---|---|---|
| BOARD | GENDER | NUMBERS |
| FEMALE | 961 | |
| MALE | 194 | |
| BELB | TOTAL | 1155 |
| FEMALE | 1203 | |
| MALE | 251 | |
| WELB | TOTAL | 1454 |
| FEMALE | 1569 | |
| MALE | 248 | |
| NEELB | TOTAL | 1817 |
| FEMALE | 1369 | |
| MALE | 278 | |
| SEELB | TOTAL | 1647 |
| FEMALE | 1596 | |
| MALE | 303 | |
| SELB | TOTAL | 1899 |
Primary School Teachers
Lord Morrow asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) male; and (ii) female, primary school teachers, broken down by Education and Library Board area.
(AQW 5909/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sa tábla thíos.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
| PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS | ||
|---|---|---|
| BOARD | GENDER | NUMBERS |
| FEMALE | 44 | |
| MALE | 37 | |
| BELB | TOTAL | 81 |
| FEMALE | 110 | |
| MALE | 69 | |
| WELB | TOTAL | 179 |
| FEMALE | 102 | |
| MALE | 100 | |
| NEELB | TOTAL | 202 |
| FEMALE | 56 | |
| MALE | 92 | |
| SEELB | TOTAL | 148 |
| FEMALE | 105 | |
| MALE | 113 | |
| SELB | TOTAL | 218 |
| PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS | ||
|---|---|---|
| BOARD | GENDER | NUMBERS |
| FEMALE | 961 | |
| MALE | 194 | |
| BELB | TOTAL | 1155 |
| FEMALE | 1203 | |
| MALE | 251 | |
| WELB | TOTAL | 1454 |
| FEMALE | 1569 | |
| MALE | 248 | |
| NEELB | TOTAL | 1817 |
| FEMALE | 1369 | |
| MALE | 278 | |
| SEELB | TOTAL | 1647 |
| FEMALE | 1596 | |
| MALE | 303 | |
| SELB | TOTAL | 1899 |
Children Statemented
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of children who have been statemented, broken down by Education and Library Board area.
(AQW 5943/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh sa tábla thíos.
The information requested is detailed in the attached table.
Pupils with statements of Special Educational Need, 2007/08
|
ELB |
|
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
School level |
BELB |
WELB |
NEELB |
SEELB |
SELB |
Total |
Pre school |
11 |
29 |
27 |
19 |
20 |
106 |
Primary (Year 1-7) |
423 |
683 |
732 |
1,234 |
1,438 |
4,510 |
Post primary |
456 |
744 |
738 |
994 |
1,231 |
4,163 |
Special |
1,061 |
695 |
1,007 |
1,055 |
377 |
4,195 |
Total |
1,951 |
2,151 |
2,504 |
3,302 |
3,066 |
12,974 |
Source: School census in the north of Ireland
Note:
Figures for the pre-school sector include nursery and reception pupils in primary schools and children in nursery schools and in funded places in voluntary and private pre-school centres
Integrated Schools
Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education to report on the viability criteria for integrated schools.
(AQO 3002/08)
Ms C Ruane: Cé go bhfuil dualgas ar an Roinn Oideachais an t-oideachas imeasctha a spreagadh agus a éascú, le bheith i dteideal maoinithe phoiblí caithfidh gach scoil nua riachtanais reachtúla éagsúla agus riachtanais eile a shásamh.
While the Department of Education has a duty to encourage and facilitate integrated education, in order to qualify for public funding, all new schools have to satisfy a number of statutory and other requirements. The viability criteria include:
Minimum pupil intake figures which are as follows:
- a 15-pupil intake in year 1 for new primary schools in Belfast and Derry;
- a 12-pupil intake in year 1 in primary schools elsewhere; and
- a 50-pupil intake in year 8 for secondary schools
A new integrated school must attract 30% of its pupils from the minority community, be that Protestant or Catholic, in the area where the school is situated.
Existing schools, transforming to integrated status, must demonstrate the ability to achieve a minimum of 10% of their 1st year intake drawn from the minority tradition within the school’s enrolment and the potential to achieve a minimum of 30% in the longer term.
Under the criteria, September 2007 saw the recognition by the Department of Education of Rowandale Integrated Primary School, and the transformation to integrated status of Ballycastle Primary School, Tyrella Primary School and Crumlin High School.
In addition I approved the establishment of Blackwater Integrated College with effect from September 2008. This scheme sees the amalgamation of Down Academy, a transformed integrated school, and Rowallane Integrated College, an independent integrated school. It demonstrates the flexibility of the criteria and the imaginative approaches being taken to the development of the integrated sector.
Single Education Authority
Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education to give a timescale within which she intends to inform the Assembly of her decision on the future role of local councillors in relation to the proposed Single Education Authority.
(AQO 2973/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá mo Roinn ag cur bailchríche ar an chéad Bhille de dhá Bhille le hAthbhreithniú an Riaracháin Phoiblí san oideachas a chur i bhfeidhm.
My Department is currently finalising the first of two Bills to implement the Review of Public Administration in education. I intend to bring the first Bill forward before the summer recess.
In finalising the Bill there are a number of matters that I wish to give careful consideration to. These include:
- Equality.
- Local democratic accountability, in terms of both the membership of the Education and Skills Authority, and its working relationships with local councils and other public bodies;
- The employing authority role of the ESA in relation to staff in schools, and
The RPA is the most significant reform of education administration in over 30 years, and I want to be satisfied that the new arrangements will deliver the necessary strategic changes in education, whilst underpinning local democratic accountability. I also want to take the opportunity to ensure that the promotion of equality is mainstreamed into all aspects of the education system.
I intend to make a decision on these matters in the very near future. At that point I will advise the Education Committee, and offer the Committee an opportunity to comment on the draft legislation before taking it to the Executive.
Modern Languages
Mrs Hanna asked the Minister of Education to outline the steps she is taking to increase the uptake of modern languages at GCSE level.
(AQO 3022/08)
Ms C Ruane: Is maith a aithním an tábhacht atá le foghlaim teanga. Creidim go dtig le foghlaim na dara teanga cuidiú lenár n-aos óg a bheith ina ndaoine cruthaitheacha, muiníneacha agus deaslabhartha a fhéadann páirt iomlán a imirt sa tsochaí agus a fhéadann barr a gcumais a bhaint amach.
I very much recognise the importance of language learning. I believe that learning a second language can help our young people to become creative, confident and articulate individuals, able to play their full part in society and to achieve to their full potential.
We are living in an increasingly diverse society across the island of Ireland and competing in a global marketplace. We know from experience in other European countries, and our own Irish-medium sector, that an early start to learning a second language is a key way of ensuring success.
I believe that, if we engage young people in language learning from an early age, they will develop greater confidence and enjoyment in their language skills and this can only encourage more young people to want to continue learning a language at post-primary level and seek qualifications at GCSE level and beyond.
There is good work already happening in our primary schools in teaching modern languages. To support more primary schools in delivering this, I am putting a programme in place from this school year, providing peripatetic tutors to support those primary schools who wish to offer Spanish and Irish. Tutors have been recruited and will be starting to work in schools from the summer school term. I am pleased to report a high level of interest among primary schools and very positive feedback from the awareness-raising events held for teachers in March.
At post-primary level, schools are encouraged to offer a wider range of modern languages and the revised curriculum provides them with greater flexibility to do so. Instead of being limited to offering 1 of only 5 languages as previously, schools are now able to choose any of the languages of the 27 EU member states to meet the minimum requirement, and any other additional languages they wish. The introduction of the Entitlement Framework will facilitate greater choice across a range of subject areas such as languages, including through collaboration among schools and with FE colleges. Improved careers advice and guidance will also support our young people when deciding which GCSE subjects they should take.
In addition to this, I am expecting recommendations shortly from the joint University of Ulster-Queen’s University Belfast Subject Centre for Languages, Linguistics and Area Studies on a languages strategy for the North. This work is looking at ways of promoting language learning in primary and post-primary schools, promoting the uptake of a wider range of languages and language learning, teaching and assessment at post-primary level. Another key area this will consider is the language of newcomers who can have a positive impact in extending languages across communities. I look forward to receiving the Centre’s recommendations.
Dickson Plan
Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Education to outline the representations she has received (i) for; and (ii) against, the retention of the Craigavon-based Dickson Plan for education for schools in the area in which it operates.
(AQO 2989/08)
Ms C Ruane: Mar a bheadh súil leis, fuair mé comhfhreagras mór maidir le socruithe aistrithe iarbhunscoile sa todhchaí.
As one might expect I have received a great deal of correspondence on the issue of future post-primary transfer arrangements. This correspondence has included the whole range of opinions on this subject including support for and opposition to the system that operates in the Craigavon-based Dickson plan. There has also been substantial research into the performance of the Dickson plan – most recently the study produced by the Southern Education and Library Board. In addition to this, my Department’s discussions on future post-primary transfer arrangements, in the wake of my December 4, 2007 statement, have included representatives of all schools.
I made clear in that statement that 14 should be the key decision point in terms of matching provision to children, and outlined a possible system of informed election at 14 to educational pathways which will be facilitated through the implementation of the Entitlement Framework and could be accommodated within a number of different structural options:
- Access within an 11-19 school;
- Transfer to an alternative 11-19 school;
- Access through an 11-19 school or a post 14 school which provides access in collaboration with other schools, FE Colleges or other providers working within a learning community;
- A local area may offer general provision in 11-14 schools, followed by specialism and diversity in 14 plus provision.
Models of transfer similar to the Dickson Plan therefore remain a possibility, but without academic selection which I consider unjust and unnecessary to achieve academic excellence. The optimum arrangement of provision within an area will be considered over the coming months by the area planning groups which I announced on 4 March 2008, to facilitate transition to post-primary education and delivery of the Entitlement Framework.
Numeracy and Literacy Strategy
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education to give a timescale within which she intends to commence consultation on her numeracy and literacy strategy.
(AQO 2953/08)
Ms C Ruane: Is é mo bharúil go bhfuil leasú ó bhonn de dhíth ar struchtúir iarbhunscoile anseo má táimid leis an dul chun cinn sa litearthacht agus san uimhearthacht a fheiceáil a ba mhaith linn uilig a bheith againn.
It is my view that radical reform of post-primary structures here is needed if we are to make the gains that we all want to see in literacy and numeracy. The revised Literacy and Numeracy strategy will therefore be rolled out in a much reformed educational landscape, principally as a result of m y decision to end the unfair system of academic selection from later this year.
Work to develop the revised strategy is nearing completion and a draft strategy will issue shortly for public consultation in both English and Irish.
Our intention is to issue the strategy for consultation in June 2008 with the consultation period straddling the summer holidays and running until 31 st October 2008. This is to ensure that schools, in particular, have sufficient time to consider its proposals.
In advance of publication of the consultation document, we will also be setting out and testing the thinking behind the strategy with key stakeholders, which I hope will include the teaching unions as well as school governors, education support professionals and parents.
Demographic Decline
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Education to detail how demographic decline has affected (i) grammar schools; and (ii) secondary schools.
(AQO 3045/08)
Ms C Ruane:
Sa bhliain scoile naoi déag nócha a sé/a seacht bhí an líon daltaí céad triocha míle, cúig chéad seasca a trí. Sa bhliain dhá mhíle a sé/a seacht bhí sé céad fiche a trí mhíle, seacht gcéad seachtó a hocht; sin titim de níos mó ná cúig faoin chéad.
The 11-16 pupil population in the 1996/7 school year was 130, 563. In 2006/7 it was 123,778, representing a fall of over 5%.
Despite this decline, the numbers of pupils in grammar schools has remained static at approximately 46,000. However, the profile of this 46,000 has changed and is changing further with each annual intake:
- Approximately 9,000 pupils are admitted to grammar school each year