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 02 May 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
OFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER
Victims' Commissioners
Mr Elliott asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail its definition of the word 'victim'; and to outline any advice that has, or may be, issued to the Victims' Commissioners, regarding the definition they will use in the carrying out of their duties.
(AQW 3616/08)
The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness): Under direct rule, a definition of victim and survivor was included in the Victims and Survivors (Northern Ireland) Order 2006. It was envisaged at that time that this would offer guidance to the Victims’ Commissioner as to the definition of a victim. Officials within OFMDFM have advised the Commissioners designate of this legislative definition.
Single Equality Bill
Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide a timescale for bringing forward the Single Equality Bill.
(AQW 5432/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Policy proposals on equality legislation will be considered in consultation with the Committee for the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister and the Executive. It would not be appropriate to comment on timescales until policy decisions have been taken.
Assembly Questions
Mr Savage asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the delays; and (ii) the costs incurred by the department, in translating answers to written Assembly questions into Irish.
(AQW 5438/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Since the restoration of the Executive, translated answers to Assembly Questions have not been sought and therefore no costs or delays have arisen.
Freedom of Information
Mr K Robinson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if Freedom of Information legislation is applicable to private companies and businesses who (i) have received funding from the public purse; (ii) have received grants from government agencies; and (iii) have received no government funding.
(AQW 5493/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: There are clearly defined criteria for an organisation to be covered by the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. Section 4 of the Act provides that the body must be established under the royal prerogative, or legislation, or by a Minister or government department, and appointments to the body must be made by the Crown, a Minister or a government department. Bodies that meet these criteria are periodically brought within the scope of the Act by orders made under section 4. If a company is wholly-owned by a public authority, then it is automatically covered by the Act.
The Act also includes provision to extend its coverage to organisations that carry out functions of a public nature, and to contractors, who provide services which are a function of a public authority. This can be done through making an order under section 5. A public consultation to seek views as to whether additional public authorities should be designated under section 5 concluded on 1 February 2008. The responses are being analysed currently and the UK Government aims to publish a report in May 2008.
Commission Procedures
Mr Kennedy asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, further to its answer to AQW 5330/08, to detail (i) the average timescale for deciding an appeal heard today under the various procedures; (ii) the procedures and thresholds which the Commission has for prioritising casework covering significant housing developments, investment projects and job creating proposals; and (iii) where an appellant can access this information.
(AQW 5703/08)
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:
“ (i) It is difficult to accurately predict the average time that it will take for the Commission to decide upon an appeal that is submitted today. The clearance times for an appeal received in April 2008, will depend greatly on the resources available to the PAC. Based on the present resources available to the Commission, it is anticipated that it will take approximately two and half years to determine an appeal received today.
(ii) & (iii) The Commission has procedures for prioritising casework. These procedures cover significant housing developments, investment projects and job creating proposals. The extent to which a case may be prioritised will depend on the availability of Commissioner resources. This information is available on the Publication page of the Planning Appeals Commission website – www.pacni.gov.uk.
I would be happy to provide any further information you require arising out of this response or to meet with you to discuss the matter if that would be more suitable. ”
The Department has made significant additional financial resources available for the next three years to enable the Chief Commissioner to address the backlog of appeals cases. From 1 April 2008 the Planning Appeals Commission’s budget increased from £1.858 million in 2007-2008 to £2.368 million, a net increase of £510k. Further increases to the 2007-08 budget figure of £520k and £538k respectively will be made in the following years 2009-2010 and 2010-2011. In addition the level of receipts which the PAC can retain has increased from £150k in April 2007 to £376k per annum for the next three years.
This additional funding will enable the Chief Commissioner to fund, subject to availability, a significant number of additional Commissioners to deploy against the backlog of planning appeals cases. It is anticipated that this will reduce the average timescale for deciding an appeal once the new Commissioners undertake training and become fully operational. The Office of the First Minister and the deputy First Minister continues to work with the Chief Commissioner on this issue. We have increased the Commissioner complement of the Planning Appeals Commission and on 28 April 2008 we will appoint two new Principal Commissioners and one new Senior Commissioner to address the increasing complexity of the workload.
In addition the Department will shortly announce a competition for up to ten new part-time Panel Commissioners to further strengthen the capacity of the Planning Appeals Commission. A competition for 6 permanent Commissioners will be advertised later in the year which is the earliest date that the Planning Appeals Commission will have the capacity to train and manage these new appointments.
Family Information Group
Mr Durkan asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the advice and assistance he is providing to the Family Information Group on future funding of the group's advocacy and information role on behalf of families of children with disabilities.
(AQW 5937/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister has a policy co-ordination role and does not provide grant funding to the voluntary and community sector. We are not therefore in a position to offer financial assistance to support the work of this group.
We have indicated this in previous correspondence to the Family Information Group and have advised them of a number of organisations which may be able to provide assistance in sourcing future funding.
Gender Equality Strategy
Ms J McCann asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the targets that have been met to date in relation to the Gender Equality Strategy.
(AQW 6018/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We are committed to embedding gender equality across all government policies and programmes, and to this end Departments’ Gender Action Plans 2008-2011 identify targets to address identified gender inequalities. Our focus is very much on identifying and tackling existing gender inequalities, and we will bring forward for Executive endorsement, later this year, cross-departmental gender equality action plans. These will pay particular attention to tackling the causes of gender inequalities in key action areas identified in the Gender Equality Strategy 2006-2016.
To a large extent the success of the Gender Equality Strategy will be judged in the light of progress demonstrated through the cross-departmental action plans, and we will review and report on performance against targets in these plans, annually. Officials are working with departments and in partnership with the Gender Advisory Panel and other representatives to develop the cross departmental Gender Equality Action Plans. The cross departmental approach is reflected in the formation of the Inter Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence while the successes of Departments’ partnership with the voluntary and community sector are well illustrated in events like the launch of the Women's Centres Regional Partnership. The strengthening of the voice of the men's sector, and their focus on health and family concerns, has been encouraging. We intend to conduct a mid-term review of the strategy, taking account of relevant research and statistical analysis.
Partnership Body
Mr McElduff asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail its progress towards the establishment of a strong social partnership body empowered to give advice to the Executive and departments on social, economic and cultural matters, as laid down in the Northern Ireland Act.
(AQW 6091/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Following the restoration of devolution in May 2007, we decided to commission a fresh review to examine the effectiveness and appropriateness of the structure, operation and membership of the Civic Forum and make recommendations on the most appropriate mechanism and arrangements for engaging with, and obtaining the views of, civic society on social, economic and cultural matters.
Since then, much of the preparatory work for the review has been undertaken by OFMDFM officials. A senior civil servant has recently been appointed to lead the Civic Forum review team .
Departmenatl Land
Mr Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any land sold by its office in the North Down constituency since 2002.
(AQW 6123/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We can confirm that no land has been sold by OFMDFM in the North Down Constituency since 2002.
Civic Forum
Mr Hamilton asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the cost of the Civic Forum in each of the last 10 years.
(AQW 6137/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Civic Forum was established in 2000 and held its inaugural meeting on 9 October 2000. Funding of the Forum ceased on suspension on 14 October 2002. The Forum has not been recalled. The Forum’s expenditure costs from 2000 to the present are as follows:
| Year |
Total Expenditure £k |
|---|---|
| 2000/01 | Not available from accounting system |
| 2001/02 | 425 |
| 2002/03 | 328 |
| 2003/04 – 2007/08 | None |
Initial expenditure, in 2000/2001, consisted mainly of the salaries of the civil servants staffing its secretariat and some setup and operational costs. These were not, at the time, recorded separately from the other costs of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister (OFMDFM) and so a disaggregated figure for that year is not currently available.
Salary and accommodation costs for OFMDFM staff engaged in preparation for the review of the Civic Forum which was announced following restoration of devolution are also not separately identified.
Investment Strategy 2008–2018
Ms Anderson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to confirm that the Executive is committed to (i) using Government procurement to play an active and effective role in the process of tackling patterns of socio-economic disadvantage, including new patterns of infrastructure development that offer equality of opportunity for all; and (ii) mainstreaming the new Guidance on Equality of Opportunity and Sustainable Development in Public Sector Procurement, recently developed by the Equality Commission and the Central Procurement Directorate.
(AQW 6363/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Investment Strategy 2008–2018 agreed by the Executive and the Assembly in January 2008 contains a commitment to seek to maximise, through the procurement process, the social and employment opportunities for all our people, addressing existing patterns of socio-economic disadvantage and using prosperity to tackle poverty.
The guidance on integrating Equality of Opportunity and Sustainable Development in Public Sector Procurement addresses how policy makers and practitioners can integrate equality of opportunity and sustainability into public sector procurement. Implementation of the guidance will therefore support the Executive's approach in delivering its key priorities under the Programme for Government and the relevant commitments contained in the Investment Strategy. Promulgation of the guidance across the public sector was approved by the Executive on 13 March 2008.
Planning Appeals Commission
Mr S Wilson asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the average length of time for applications to be considered by the Planning Appeals Commission.
(AQO 3194/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Planning Appeals Commission exercises its functions independently of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister but the Department is responsible for providing the resources needed for the Commission to discharge its responsibilities.
The position at 31 March 2008 in relation to the average length of time for applications as provided by the Planning Appeals Commission shows the average time taken to determine an appeal already heard within that financial year as follows:-
- an appeal by formal hearing took on average 89 weeks;
- an appeal by informal hearing took on average 85 weeks;
- an appeal by written representation with an accompanied site visit took on average 77 weeks; and
- an appeal by written representation with an unaccompanied site visit took on average 84 weeks.
The backlog of planning appeals cases is causing considerable concern and this is why we have made significant additional financial resources available for the next three years to enable the Chief Commissioner to address the backlog of appeals cases. From 1 April 2008 the Planning Appeals Commission’s budget increased to £2.368 million, a net increase of £510k, and further increases will be made in the following years 2009-10 and 2010-11 when the Commission will have a budget of £2.378 million and £2.369 million respectively. In addition, the level of receipts which the Planning Appeals Commission can retain has increased from £150k in April 2007 to £376k per annum for the next three years.
The Department continues to work with the Chief Commissioner on this issue and as a result the Commissioner complement of the Planning Appeals Commission has been increased, and from today two new Principal Commissioners and one new Senior Commissioner have been appointed to address the increasing complexity of the workload.
In addition, arrangements are in hand for further competitions over the following months. The numbers appointed will of course be subject to the availability of suitable people from within a limited and specialised market.
Sectarianism
Mr Attwood asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail how it proposes to eliminate sectarianism; and to outline the budget that is available for this.
(AQO 3149/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We would refer the Member to our answers to earlier questions and as stated previously, we are totally committed to the cross-cutting theme of a shared and better future for all: equality, fairness, inclusion and the promotion of good relations are the watchwords for all our policies and programmes across government.
The Programme for Government confirms our commitment to continue to challenge racism, sectarianism, and intolerance which mar our reputation, blight our economic prospects and have a corrosive effect on our society.
We remain fully committed to addressing the divisions within our society and to achieve measurable reductions in sectarianism, racism and intolerance. That is why we are making additional resources available over the incoming Comprehensive Spending Review period to target these very issues.
We have committed an additional ₤7.5m direct expenditure over the next three years – 2008/2011, with a total investment of approximately ₤29m on good relations and good race relations.
Website Review
Mr B McCrea asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if a review of its website, to allow better access for those with disabilities, was completed by March 2008.
(AQO 3088/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness:
We are committed to meeting the World Wide Web Consortium Accessibility Initiative (WAI) AA standard. This is an internationally recognised accessibility standard.
The OFMDFM website has been designed, developed and built to meet this standard. The website was audited against these standards prior to launch in 2005 and is reviewed regularly. The corporate standards for accessibility are adhered to when publishing web content. Staff are trained in writing for the web which covers accessibility issues.
Work has been ongoing through the department’s eMedia team to allow better access for those with disabilities. When publishing to the site, business areas within OFMDFM are encouraged to use web pages rather than pdfs ( Portable Document Format). Web pages are more user friendly for visitors to the site with visual impairments.
Examples of this in the past year include the Policy link and Brussels bulletins. Both previously were only available in a pdf format, which was not easily accessible.
Where pdfs must be used, specialist software is used to make them more accessible prior to publication.
Ministry of Defence Sites
Mr D Bradley asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to report on their discussions with the Ministry of Defence, and other relevant government bodies, on the acquisition of vacated Ministry of Defence sites.
(AQO 3156/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Noting the various debates on this matter in the Assembly and elsewhere, we are fully aware of the huge importance of this issue and the very significant impact that the development of the former military sites could have, economically and socially, for local communities.
However, we first have to secure the sites, and then develop them. Members will be aware that there is no cover within the Budget for these sites.
As a result, our aim is to secure some of these sites free of charge. We can confirm that we, along with the Minister of Finance and Personnel, have both written to and held meetings with the UK Government and the Secretary of State in order to progress this issue. We are continuing to push vigorously on the gifting of a number of sites with the Prime Minister and Chief Secretary to the Treasury. Our officials also maintain regular contact with the Ministry of Defence with regard to these matters.
Members would wish to note that the Secretary of State publicly commented on this issue recently to the effect that our case for the gifting of further sites was weakened by the fact that Maze/Long Kesh had not yet been developed.
However, we believe that requiring the Executive to purchase such sites at market value is a retraction from the Joint Declaration position and will, as previously stated, continue to push for the gifting of some of the sites.
Civic Forum
Mr Moutray asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what is its assessment of the cost effectiveness of the Civic Forum.
(AQO 3208/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We have not yet made an assessment of the cost effectiveness of the Civic Forum during its operation. However, the arrangements for the Civic Forum, approved by the Assembly on 16 February 1999, included provision for a formal review. The suspension of the devolved institutions in October 2002 meant that the review, which had commenced in the Spring of 2002, was not completed.
Following the restoration of devolution in May 2007, the Executive decided to commission a fresh review to examine the effectiveness and appropriateness of the structure, operation and membership of the Forum and to make recommendations on the most appropriate mechanism and arrangements for engaging with and obtaining the views of civic society on social, economic and cultural matters. That review is now under way.
Civic Forum
Mr McGlone asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the process used to select the senior official to conduct the review of the Civic Forum.
(AQO 3154/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: A member of the Senior Civil Service has now been identified through the normal internal Senior Civil Service management process as Team Leader for the review of the Civic Forum.
Planning Appeals Commission
Mr Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide an update on the new Planning Appeals Commissioners; and to detail (i) the amount of money that has been allocated; and (ii) the reasons for the delay in making this appointment.
(AQO 3098/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Planning Appeals Commission exercises its functions independently of OFMDFM but the Department is responsible for providing the resources needed for the Commission to discharge its responsibilities. Appointments to the Commission are made by us.
Significant additional financial resources have been made available for the next three years to enable the Chief Commissioner to address the backlog of appeals cases. From 1 April 2008 the Planning Appeals Commission’s budget increased from £1.858 million in 2007-2008 to £2.368 million, a net increase of £510k. Further increases to the 2007-08 budget figure, of £520k and £538k respectively will be made in the following years 2009-2010 and 2010-2011. In addition, the level of receipts which the PAC can retain has increased from £150k in April 2007 to £376k per annum for the next three years.
This additional funding will enable the Chief Commissioner to fund, subject to availability, a significant number of additional Commissioners to deploy against the backlog of planning appeals cases.
Officials in our department continue to work with the Chief Commissioner on this issue. The Commissioner complement of the Planning Appeals Commission has been increased and we have appointed from today two new Principal Commissioners and one new Senior Commissioner to address the increasing complexity of the workload.
In addition, arrangements are in hand for further competitions over the following months. The numbers appointed will of course be subject to the availability of suitable people from within a limited and specialised market.
Constitutional Reform Bill
Mr Kennedy asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if it has engaged with, or has been consulted by, the Office of the Lord Chancellor and Minister of Justice on the draft Constitutional Reform Bill.
(AQO 3099/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: The Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice has written to us to advise us of the publication of the Draft Constitutional Renewal Bill and the White Paper “The Governance of Britain” and to invite our views on his proposed reforms.
Government Advertising
Mr McNarry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the procedures for selection of media outlets, for all Northern Ireland Executive, departmental and government agency advertisements, through the advertising shared service; and (ii) the amount spent on each newspaper and news outlet in the last financial year.
(AQO 3102/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: For classified advertising the selection of media outlets is currently made in accordance with individual departmental equality schemes. In most cases the Irish News, Belfast Telegraph and News Letter are selected for daily newspaper classified advertising. For the selection of weekly newspapers, consideration is given to the geographical representation required, cross community balance and value for money. Also any relevant legislation to the subject being advertised is taken into account, for example planning notices are required to be advertised in at least one newspaper circulating in the locality to which the planning application relates. Work is also ongoing to develop a tender for classified advertising which will be in line with European procurement guidelines.
For campaign advertising, the appointed external advertising agency recommends the selection of the media outlets which will best meet the objectives of the advertising campaign. This recommendation is based on the target audience for the campaign, their media consumption habits, and analysis of each media’s ability to deliver on media efficiency, media reach and media cost effectiveness.
The Department does not hold the financial information in the format requested. Each department holds their individual budgets for advertising. Listed below in table one is the classified advertising expenditure by the eleven government departments and their agencies in 2007/08 by print media group. A breakdown by each newspaper is not available. However, table two contains the classified advertising expenditure by the eleven government departments and their agencies in 2007/08 by the following newspapers: Belfast Telegraph; Irish News; News Letter; and Daily Mirror. Campaign advertising expenditure for 2007/08 is not available.
Table 1
Group |
Expenditure |
| Independent News and Media LTD | £657,999.46 |
| Irish News Group | £400,669.03 |
| Johnston Publishing | £770,214.92 |
| Observer Newspaper Group | £100,002.23 |
| North West of Ireland Print and Publishing Co Ltd | £80,809.27 |
| Alpha Newspaper Group | £274,916.43 |
| Belfast Media Group | £116,941.07 |
| Spectator Newspapers | £32,850.15 |
| Thomas Crosbie Holdings | £3,641.28 |
| Independents | £150,946.18 |
| Others | £282,904.56 |
Table 2
Newspaper |
Expenditure |
| Belfast Telegraph | £652,650.77 |
| Irish News | £385,732.71 |
| News Letter | £426,046.72 |
| Daily Mirror | £8,313.40 |
Victims' Commissioners
Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to confirm when the four Victims' Commissioners will be fully operational.
(AQO 3198/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We are determined to see the new Victims and Survivors Commission put on a sound and durable legislative footing at the earliest opportunity and hope the Commission for Victims and Survivors Bill will complete its passage through the Assembly by mid-May and obtain Royal Assent in June.
It is intended to make formal appointments when the legislation is in place and the Commissioners will then be able to engage fully with the important work that they have been tasked with. This work will include, amongst other things, promoting an awareness of matters relating to the interests of victims and survivors, reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of law and practice in this area and reviewing the effectiveness of services provided for victims and survivors.
Ethnic Minorities
Mr Campbell asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what measures are in place to promote greater understanding and awareness of people from ethnic minorities that have newly arrived in Northern Ireland.
(AQO 3093/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: We are committed to promoting greater understanding and awareness between people from minority ethnic communities (both new and established) and indigenous people.
As it says in our Programme for Government “it is imperative that we all embrace the opportunity to create a shared and better future based on tolerance and respect for cultural diversity”. Greater understanding and awareness are key steps in achieving this.
In fulfilling this commitment we have just completed the awards process for a new one-year funding scheme for Minority Ethnic Communities. The aim of the scheme is to promote mutual understanding and good relations between people of different ethnic backgrounds, thereby building greater community cohesion between people from minority ethnic communities (both new and established) and indigenous people. We have substantially increased - by 33% - the amount of money available for the fund which will mean more organisations spread across society here will now be funded to do the hard work that needs to be done.
Other departments also have a very significant role to play in this, for example the Department of Education. “Citizenship” is a new part of the revised curriculum, and is currently being phased in. Under this part of the curriculum, young people will explore issues such as cultural identity and heritage, diversity, inclusion and promoting respect for others. In doing this they will look at our indigenous cultures and other cultures, including those of minority ethnic people who live here.
In the near future we will be bringing forward a Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration for a shared and better future. This will tackle issues of sectarianism and racism and will provide a framework for promoting greater mutual understanding and awareness between people here.
In taking this programme forward we will address the divisions within our society and achieve measurable reductions in sectarianism, racism and hate crime. If we do not take this opportunity now there is a real risk that the divisions of our past will be replicated in the new communities that have come to live and work among us.
Single Equality Bill
Mr Burns asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide a timetable for bringing forward legislation in relation to a Single Equality Bill.
(AQO 3150/08)
Rt Hon I Paisley and Mr M McGuinness: Policy proposals on equality legislation will be considered in consultation with the Committee for the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister and the Executive. It would not be appropriate to comment on timescales until policy decisions have been taken.
Agriculture and Rural Development
Satellite Monitoring Equipment
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will waive the charges in relation to the maintenance of satellite monitoring equipment, installed by her department, on registered fishing boats.
(AQW 5808/08)
The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): I am prepared to help the industry with the compliance costs associated with the operation of the Vessel Monitoring System. I will provide funding to meet the cost of the warranty for a further 2 years and to meet also the transmission costs which each vessel owner has to pay when the vessel is tracked by the satellite monitor.
Direct Fuel Subsidies
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the reasons why fishermen are not benefiting from direct fuel subsidies that have been approved by the European Commission for fishermen in France and Spain.
(AQW 5810/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I raised this issue with Commissioner Borg when I met him on 1 April. He said that he was aware of the Spanish and French aid schemes. His view was that the Spanish scheme which provides payments to their fishermen appeared to fall within the State Aid de minimis provisions. His Directorate are still assessing the aid notified by France.
I have considered carefully the option for de-minimis aid and after discussing this with my Executive colleagues I have decided that it is more appropriate to focus on a longer term strategic plan which I outlined in my statement to the Assembly on 28 th April.
European Fisheries Fund
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will develop and implement a plan using the European Fisheries Fund to address the fuel crisis facing the fishing industry.
(AQW 5813/08)
Ms M Gildernew: In my statement to the Assembly on 28 th April I indicated that I want to ensure that the EFF funding is used in a strategic way to achieve a profitable future for the catching sector. As part of that longer term approach I want to see a focus on improving fuel efficiency in the fleet using EFF as appropriate. There is no one solution which will be the answer for all vessels in the fleet, but there is a body of technical assessment and research on possible fuel efficiency measures and barriers to their uptake. I want to see every opportunity explored to take advantage of this work.
Landing and Marketing Dues
Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what consideration she has given to suspending Landing and Marketing dues for locally owned fishing vessels from 1 April 2008 and replacing them with an emergency grant from her department.
(AQW 5815/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Having considered carefully this option I have decided that it is more appropriate to focus on a longer term strategic plan to establish a framework which enables the industry to make whatever changes are necessary to adjust to the new circumstances and to achieve long-term sustainability and prosperity.
Rivers Agency
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail (i) what plans Rivers Agency has to protect the 28,000 homes believed to be under threat from flooding; (ii) the funding in place for these measures; (iii) any bids she will make for additional funding; and (iv) to give a timescale within which these measures will be completed.
(AQW 5980/08)
Ms M Gildernew: (i) The figure of 28,000 properties at risk of flooding from rivers and the sea is purely a strategic planning assessment to enable the Agency to effectively manage the risk of flooding through a proactive approach. This assessment is the first stage in a process in that it will identify the areas where more detailed assessments need to be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the European Floods Directive. The final outputs of this process will be in the form of Flood Risk Management Plans which will specify site specific objectives and measures to manage the risk of flooding.
Where the Agency is currently aware of specific flooding problems investigations are carried out as a matter of course which may result in a flood alleviation works being undertaken. The objectives and measures from the Flood Risk Management Plans referred to above, when in place, will identify the need for flood management measures some of which will be in the form of flood alleviation schemes.
(ii)The Rivers Agency has bid for and been allocated capital funding within the Investment Strategy for Northern Ireland (ISNI) namely £7,381M in 2008-09 £5,971M in 2009-10 and £6,511M in 2011-12. This includes funding for flood alleviation schemes. It also includes funding for wider flood risk management which includes delivery of the European Floods Directive.
(iii) Additional bids will be made to recover reduced allocations for 2009-10 and 2010-11 resulting from recent budget decisions. As the implementation of the Floods Directive is taken forward and the site specific information on flood risk and the associated management measures becomes clearer the need for additional funding will be assessed against current allocations.
(iv) The Agency has an ongoing prioritised programme to investigate flooding from rivers and the sea to identify the scope for and procure viable flood alleviation schemes.
The timescales laid down by the Floods Directive require transposition into Northern Ireland legislation by November 2009; assessments of areas at significant risk to be completed by December 2011; flood hazard and flood risk maps to be completed by December 2013 and Flood Risk Management Plans to be completed by December 2015. Thereafter assessments, mapping and Plans to be reviewed every 6 years. The Agency is required to meet these timescales and where feasible will be seeking every opportunity for earlier delivery.
Flood Protection
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development why only 77 homes will benefit from flood protection measures in the current year.
(AQW 5981/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Flood protection schemes are based on site specific investigations and are prioritised within the Agency programme taking account of available resources within the current year and completion of legal requirements on public consultation and exhibition. The figure of 77 homes is the number expected to benefit from the schemes which will be completed in 2008/2009 financial year.
The number of properties which benefit from flood alleviation measures in any year varies, this year being much lower than last when the Agency completed schemes at Newcastle and Stoneyford which provided protection to over 800 properties. The figure must also be seen in context of the Agency’s overall prioritised portfolio of schemes for 2008/2009 which includes culvert refurbishment, drainage infrastructure provision as well as flood alleviation. All of these schemes contribute to flood risk management.
Animal Cruelty
Mr Wells asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of visits made by departmental staff during 2007 and 2008 to the farm on the Ballyroney Road, Katesbridge, where animals were removed as a result of alleged cruelty.
(AQW 5982/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Apart from the recent visits in April 2008, there were no additional visits during 2008. The Department visited the premises on four occasions between June and December 2007. During these visits a DARD Veterinary Officer was present, accompanied by members of the PSNI.
Official Meetings
Mr Ross asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the discussions she has had with Ministers in the European Union in relation to (i) farming issues; and (ii) fishing issues, directly relating to the parliamentary constituency of East Antrim.
(AQW 5991/08)
Ms M Gildernew: Since assuming my responsibilities as Agriculture Minister, I have been proactive in establishing a closer working relationship with the European Commission. To date, I have participated in 6 meetings with the European Commission on farming and fishing issues. Given the nature of these discussions they have to date reflected our regional interests rather than a particular parliamentary constituency.
Coastline Protection
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the progress that Rivers Agency has made in relation to protecting the coastline.
(AQW 6006/08)
Ms M Gildernew: P rotecting the coastline encompasses managing the risk of both coastal flooding and erosion.
Under the Drainage (NI) Order 1973 Rivers Agency has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of sea defences designed to protect against coastal flooding, Currently the Agency has maintenance responsibility for some 26 kilometres of sea defences around the coast of NI. As part of the management of these assets major refurbishment at Strangford and Lough Foyle was undertaken in the last decade.
The assessment of coastal flood risk is taking a significant step forward with the introduction of predictive flood mapping for NI. This will enable a strategic assessment for planning purposes to enable the Agency to more effectively manage the risk of flooding. This assessment is the first stage in a process in that it will identify the areas where more detailed assessments need to be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the European Floods Directive. The final outputs of this process will be in the form of Flood Risk Management Plans which will specify site specific objectives and measures to manage the risk of flooding.
It is intended that flood maps for all of NI will be available in late summer 2008 including allowance for climate change and predicted sea level rise.
With regard to coastal erosion NI does not have any specific legislation. Essential works within the sphere of interest of various Government Departments continue to be dealt with under an historic interdepartmental agreement known as the Bateman Formula.
Under this Formula cost beneficial works, to protect essential infrastructure, may be undertaken by the Department or Authority responsible for the asset at risk. Rivers Agency’s intervention on coastal erosion is limited to those cases which do not fall within the functional areas of other Departments and where works satisfy cost-benefit appraisal criteria.
Future management of the coast is currently under review.
Staff Absent
Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail, for each of the last 5 years, the number of staff in her 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 6008/08)
Ms M Gildernew: For the purpose of answering this question the figures provided relate to DARD staff who submitted medical evidence, which specifically stated stress as the cause of absence.
The 5 years referred to have been taken as the last 5 financial years starting in 2003/2004 and includes science service staff up to 2005/2006, before the establishment of the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).
The information requested is set out in detail in the attached tables with a summary below.
Total DARD staff absent due to stress by year.
|
03/04 |
04/05 |
05/06 |
06/07 |
07/08 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Non-Industrial |
85 |
63 |
39 |
52 |
61 |
Industrial |
8 |
7 |
11 |
8 |
3 |
Rivers Agency
Mr W Clarke asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will consider extending the Rivers Agency's remit to clearing debris from rivers beyond the current position of solely removing obstructions.
(AQW 6031/08)
Ms M Gildernew: I have no plans to extend Rivers Agency`s current drainage remit. As an Agency within DARD, the drainage authority for NI, it is currently charged with maintaining free flow/drainage function in some 6800 kilometres of designated watercourses. The Agency`s maintenance programme includes the removal of debris which is causing or likely to cause a significant obstruction to flows. This also involves frequent inspection and clearance of over 800 urban grilles where blockage may cause flooding. Extension of maintenance to removal of all observed or reported debris from watercourses could divert staff from essential flood management. Moreover it would mean the Rivers Agency assuming functions on waste management, amenity and water quality enhancement which currently rest with the Department of the Environment and District Councils.
Departmental Land
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail any land sold by her department in the North Down constituency since 2002.
(AQW 6119/08)
Ms M Gildernew: My Department has not sold any land in the North Down constituency area in the period since 2002.
Staff Disciplinary Procedures
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of staff in her department who, since 8 May 2007, have (i) received official warnings; and (ii) faced disciplinary procedures.
(AQW 6142/08)
Ms M Gildernew: For the purpose of answering the question, the figures provided relate in (i) to staff issued with formal warnings for unsatisfactory attendance or conduct related issues; and in (ii) to staff that faced formal disciplinary charges relating to misconduct. Where these charges have subsequently resulted in a formal warning, details have been included in both (i) and (ii).
- 110 staff in this Department have received official warnings.
- 14 staff have faced disciplinary procedures.
Farm Nutrient Management Scheme
Mr Irwin asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail, as of 30 April 2008, the number of farmers that have yet to receive approval under the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme.
(AQW 6544/08)
Ms M Gildernew: As of 30 April 2008, 770 farmers have yet to receive their Farm Nutrient Management Scheme (FNMS) approvals. In 520 of these cases information is awaited from the farmers concerned so that their approvals can be issued.
Culture, Arts and Leisure
Midnight Soccer
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail (i) the number of midnight soccer initiatives currently funded by his department; and (ii) the other statutory bodies/agencies working with his department in supporting these services.
(AQW 5878/08)
The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr E Poots): Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland and the distribution of funding. While SNI contributed to the start up costs of the Midnight Street Soccer project at the Waterworks Sports Facility, it is not currently providing exchequer funding to any midnight soccer initiatives.
Other statutory bodies/agencies working in support of midnight street soccer include; Larne Borough Council, Castlereagh Borough Council, Lisburn City Council, Belfast City Council, Derry City Council, Craigavon Borough Council, Newtownabbey Borough Council, Coleraine Borough Council, Ballymoney Borough Council, the Youth Justice Agency and the PSNI.
Trip to Texas
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the benefits of his recent trip to Texas, where culture and music were on the agenda.
(AQW 5898/08)
Mr E Poots: The focus of my visit to Texas was the South by Southwest music event, at which the Northern Ireland Music Industry Commission (NIMIC) in conjunction with DCAL and Belfast City Council, supported the showcasing of four bands and one solo artist from Northern Ireland. NIMIC also supported ten local music businesses to have delegates at the trade show and conference.
Initial feedback from the musicians and businesses has been very positive and it is expected that they will reap long term benefits from their participation.
Translating Correspondence
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the expenditure on translating correspondence, received by each Government department, that was written in (i) Ulster Scots; (ii) Irish; and (ii) other languages, in the 2007/2008 year.
(AQW 5959/08)
Mr E Poots: I refer you to my answer to AQW4494/08. Records kept by my Department do not specify the type of document translated. My Department will not be in receipt of all the data relating to departmental expenditure on translations for 2007/2008 until June 2008, following accounts for 2007/2008 being finalised. Details on this expenditure will be forwarded to you through the Assembly’s Business Office once all the information has been collated.
Departmental Funding
Ms Ní Chuilín asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the amount of funding provided to rugby, soccer and GAA clubs in each of the Belfast parliamentary constituencies.
(AQW 5967/08)
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 provided to rugby, soccer and GAA clubs in each of the Belfast parliamentary constituencies over the last 5 financial years are as follows:
Belfast East
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2003/04 |
Glentoran FC The Oval Mersey Street Belfast BT4 1EX |
Safety Management |
6,362.00 |
2004/05 |
Glentoran FC The Oval Mersey Street Belfast BT4 1EX |
Safety Management |
7,135.00 |
2006/07 |
Glentoran FC The Oval Mersey Street Belfast BT4 1EX |
Safety Management |
7,065.70 |
2006/07 |
Glentoran FC The Oval Mersey Street Belfast BT4 1EX |
Safety Management |
4,640.25 |
Belfast North
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2003/04 |
Crusaders FC Seaview St Vincent Street Shore Road Belfast BT15 3PL |
Safety Management |
2,360.00 |
2003/04 |
Cliftonville FC Solitude Cliftonville Street Belfast BT14 |
Safety Management |
5,083.00 |
2004/05 |
Cliftonville FC Solitude Cliftonville Street Belfast BT14 |
Safety Management |
4,385.70 |
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2004/05 |
Crusaders FC Seaview St Vincent Street Shore Road Belfast BT15 3PL |
Safety Management |
2,250.00 |
2005/06 |
Cliftonville FC Solitude Cliftonville Street Belfast BT14 |
Stadia Safety Programme |
800,000.00 |
2006/07 |
Cliftonville FC Solitude Cliftonville Street Belfast BT14 |
Safety Management |
2,219.90 |
2006/07 |
Cliftonville FC Solitude Cliftonville Street Belfast BT14 |
Safety Management |
1,802.94 |
2006/07 |
Crusaders FC Seaview St Vincent Street Shore Road Belfast BT15 3PL |
Safety Management |
2,134.08 |
2007/08 |
Cliftonville FC Solitude Cliftonville Street Belfast BT14 |
Safety Management |
900.00 |
Belfast West
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2006/07 |
Donegal Celtic FC 32a Suffolk Road Belfast BT11 9PE |
Safety Management |
3,150.00 |
2007/08 |
Donegal Celtic FC 32a Suffolk Road Belfast BT11 9PE |
Safety Management |
937.50 |
Belfast South
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2003/04 |
Linfield FC Windsor Park Donegall Avenue Belfast BT12 6LW |
Safety Management |
7,121.00 |
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2004/05 |
Linfield FC Windsor Park Donegall Avenue Belfast BT12 6LW |
Safety Management |
7,045.00 |
2006/07 |
Linfield FC Windsor Park Donegall Avenue Belfast BT12 6LW |
Safety Management |
5,900.00 |
2006/07 |
Linfield FC Windsor Park Donegall Avenue Belfast BT12 6LW |
Safety Management |
5,728.16 |
2007/08 |
Linfield FC Windsor Park Donegall Avenue Belfast BT12 6LW |
Safety Management |
4,425.00 |
In addition to the above, lottery funding was awarded to the following project during the same period:
Belfast South
Year |
Applicant Organisation |
Project |
Grant Amount (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
2004/05 |
St Brigid’s GAC Musgrave Park Hospital Stockman’s Lane Belfast BT9 |
Construction of full sized gaelic pitch and two training pitches |
161,770.00 |
Armagh Observatory
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to explain the rationale for the reduction of research and development within the Armagh Observatory.
(AQW 6009/08)
Mr E Poots: I am not aware that to date there has not been any reduction in the levels of research and development at Armagh Observatory.
There are issues currently under discussion regarding future funding and my Department is working with the Observatory and Planetarium in an attempt to ensure the Observatory will be able to continue operating at its current level.
Ulster Scots Cultural Office
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he has any plans to open an Ulster Scots cultural office in the USA.
(AQW 6135/08)
Mr E Poots: There are no plans at present to open an Ulster-Scots Cultural Office in the United States, but the Ulster-Scots Agency has been asked to present a paper on cultural links with the USA at the next Sectoral meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council in Language format.
Ulster-Scots Cultural Tourism
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the action he is taking to promote Ulster-Scots cultural tourism in the USA.
(AQW 6136/08)
Mr E Poots: The Chair of the Ulster-Scots Agency has been asked to present a paper on cultural links with the USA at the next Sectoral meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council in Language Format. I am aware that Tourism Ireland has been involved in an extensive programme of promotional activity aimed at those of Ulster Scots heritage in the United States.
Business Class
Mr McKay asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail, since taking up office in May 2007, (i) the number of occasions that he has flown business class in his capacity as Minister; and (ii) the cost incurred by his department; and to confirm if (a) it is standard practice to fly business class; and (b) he is given the choice to fly economy class.
(AQW 6208/08)
Mr E Poots: To date I have flown business class in my capacity as Minister on 8 occasions. The total cost incurred by the Department for these flights is £15,130.21. It is standard practice for Government Ministers to travel business class.
After-School Sports Activities
Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure whether he has had any discussions with the Minister of Education in an attempt to create and aid new after-school sports activities.
(AQW 6235/08)
Mr E Poots: My Department has consulted extensively with the Department of Education on the need to improve after-school sports activities in the context of the development of a new Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation. A draft of this Strategy, which I published for consultation in October 2007, proposed specific targets and actions to give every school child over the age of 8 in Northern Ireland the opportunity to participate in at least 2 hours per week of extra-curricular sport and physical recreation.
Sport NI
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to his answer to AQW 5940/08, to detail the remit and the independent oversight function that Sport NI will have.
(AQW 6290/08)
Mr E Poots: It is currently planned that Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) will carry out the independent oversight function in accordance with its responsibilities under the Recreation and Youth Services (NI) Order 1986. The remit of the independent oversight function will be to provide independent advice and guidance to all interested parties on sports grounds safety issues and to monitor the overall implementation of the sports grounds safety certification scheme.
Work from Home
Mr Savage asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the number of staff in his department, since devolution, who have been able to work from home.
(AQW 6305/08)
Mr E Poots: None
Maze Stadium Site
Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure whether his departmental accounting officer has signed off on the Maze stadium project business plan.
(AQW 6326/08)
Mr E Poots: The Accounting Officer of my Department is currently engaged with his colleagues in DFP, OFMDFM and SIB to clarify a number of issues before he reaches a definitive Accounting Officer assessment of the PwC Outline Business Plan in respect of the proposed stadium.
Maze Stadium Site
Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if the current business plan for the Maze stadium being considered by the Department of Finance and Personnel encompasses a plan for the entire Maze site or for the development of a stadium complex only.
(AQW 6328/08)
Mr E Poots: The Outline Business Case which my Department forwarded to the
Department of Finance and Personnel, and which the Culture, Arts
and Leisure Committee recently debated, covers the options and
issues around the development of the Multi-Sports Stadium only.
International Practical Shooting Sports
Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if he will make representations to the International Practical Shooting Sports body to ensure that participants competing at international level from Northern Ireland can opt to represent Ireland in line with citizenship rights enshrined in the Good Friday Agreement.
(AQW 6340/08)
Mr E Poots: Responsibility for representation and affiliation arrangements within the sport of International Practical Shooting is a matter, in the first instance, for the governing body of the sport, the UK Practical Shooting Association.
Awards for All Funding
Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the groups in West Tyrone parliamentary constituency who have received 'Awards for All' funding over the last 12 months, and the amount received by each group.
(AQW 6344/08)
Mr E Poots: During the period April 2007 to April 2008, 28 projects in the constituency of West Tyrone received funding from Awards for All totalling £213,889.
These are as follows:
| Applicant Name | Award value |
| Bishop Kelly ABC | 10,000 |
| Omagh Explorer Scout Group | 8,771 |
| Nippers Alley Playgroup | 4,865 |
| Friends Of St Caireall's | 8,220 |
| Kilskeery Parish Senior Citizens Association | 9,475 |
| Easilift Community Transport Ltd | 10,000 |
| Western Education and Library Board - Omagh Youth Centre | 6,980 |
| St Patricks Primary School | 9,838 |
| Omagh Access Forum | 2,700 |
| Rascals Community Playgroup | 10,000 |
| Camowen Partnership Ltd | 6,300 |
| Ballylaw Womens Group | 4,090 |
| Dromore Amateur Boxing Club | 7,500 |
| The Senior Citizens Consortium Sperrin Lakeland | 6,000 |
| Blacksessiagh Regeneration Group | 10,000 |
| The Drummond Centre Project Limited | 5,741 |
| MACCA Youth Group | 4,393 |
| St Brigids Primary School (Cranagh) | 9,375 |
| Dromore Primary School | 10,000 |
| Sinclair Memorial Pipe Band | 6,893 |
| Bready Jubilee Primary School | 10,000 |
| Eskra Childcare Limited | 7,384 |
| Strabane District Basketball Club | 1,500 |
| Drumduff & Drumnakilly Community Association | 10,000 |
| Loreto Convent Primary School | 10,000 |
| Green Elves Playgroup | 9,693 |
| Creggan Education And Research Services Ltd | 9,650 |
| Chatterbox Playgroup | 4,531 |
Belfast Marathon
Mr Hilditch asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the reasons why in the interests of safety roads cannot be closed during the Belfast Marathon.
(AQW 6405/08)
Mr E Poots: Decisions relating to the closure of roads in the interests of safety during the Belfast marathon are a matter for Belfast City Council, the Department for Regional Development’s Roads Service and the PSNI.
Education
Social Mobility
Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail any studies from European countries that compare the degree of social mobility and whether or not the education system is selective or non-selective at the post primary level.
(AQW 4304/08)
The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane): Studies that comment on education and social mobility do not necessarily draw conclusions that relate explicitly to whether the education system in question is selective or non-selective. A comparative study entitled “Social Segregation in Secondary Schools: How Does England Compare With Other Countries” (Jenkins, Micklewight, Schnepf, 2006) investigated the extent of social segregation in England’s schools with that in schools across 27 countries using data from the 2000 and 2003 rounds of the Programme of International Student Assessment (PISA). The north of Ireland was included in this study.
Tugann an staidéar le fios gur féidir an idirdheighilt a mhíniú den chuid is mó de bharr cúlra míchothrom sóisialta na ndaltaí sna scoileanna stáit.
The study concludes that segregation is mostly accounted for by unevenness in social background in the state school sector. Focusing on this sector, it is shown that cross-country differences in segregation are associated with the prevalence of selective choice of pupils by schools. Low segregation countries such as those in the Nordic area and Scotland have negligible selection in schools.
Research produced by the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development - No more Failures: Ten Steps to Equity in Education (2007)) argues that education systems should, ‘Limit early tracking and streaming and postpone academic selection’ and that ‘Academic selection needs to be used with caution since it poses risks to equity.’ This is based on the following evidence:
- Secondary school systems with large social differences between schools tend on average to have poorer results in mathematics and reading and a greater spread of reading outcomes. Social background is more of an obstacle to educational success than in systems where there are not large socio-economic differences between schools.
- Academic selection by school systems is associated with great social differences between schools and a stronger effect of socio-economic status on performance, but also with a stronger performance at the top end of the scale in mathematics and science.
Evidence on secondary students from PISA (OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment) compared to evidence at primary level from PIRLS (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study) and evidence from countries which have introduced comprehensive schooling suggest that early tracking is associated with reduced equity in outcomes and sometimes weakens results overall.
St Colman's College
Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Education to confirm that children from (i) Kilcoo; (ii) Castlewellan; (iii) Dundrum; and (iv) Annaclone, will have the opportunity to travel to St Colman's College, Newry, for their post-primary education.
(AQW 4880/08)
Ms C Ruane: Leanfaidh mo mholtaí ar aistriú iar-bhunscoile de thabhairt ardtosaíochta do rogha na dtuismitheoirí.
My proposals for post-primary transfer will continue to give a high priority to parental preference. As with any oversubscribed school, places are offered at St Colman’s College, Newry to those children who best meet the school’s admissions criteria. This will continue to be the case in the future.
Class Sizes
Mr Ross asked the Minister of Education to detail her plans to reduce class sizes in primary schools.
(AQW 5289/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Department of Education’s policy is to keep classes for the youngest children at30 or fewer pupils. This policy was initiated in 1998 and, from September 2000, has applied to all pupils at Key Stage 1, (ie P1 to P4).
From 2003/04 onwards, Education and Library Boards have been responsible for providing to eligible schools any additional funding to meet the policy from within their overall allocations.
Téann monatóirí RO chun cinn agus lena linn sin, i 2007/8, ní raibh feidhm ag an bheartas ach le maoiniú breise do 31.5 múinteoirí breise.
DE monitors progress and this has been such that, in 2007/8, the policy required additional funding for only 31.5 extra teachers
Conlig Primary School
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail the projected financial cost of closing Conlig Primary School.
(AQW 5353/08)
Ms C Ruane: A Development Proposal to support the South-Eastern Education and Library Board’s (SEELB) intention to close Conlig Primary School was published on 29 January 2008 and the 2-month consultation period ended on 31 March.
Tá BOLOD ag ullmhú eolais faoi láthair ar na costais réamh-mheasta agus scríobhfaidh mé chuig an Aire nuair a bheas an t-eolas sin curtha ar fáil.
The SEELB are currently preparing information on the projected costs and I will write to the Member when it has been provided.
School Transport
Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education if she will make representation to the Southern Education and Library Board to restore the 2pm school bus in that board area.
(AQW 5431/08)
Ms C Ruane: Ní mór do Bhoird Oideachais agus Leabharlann cúnamh iompair a chur ar fáil ag tús agus ag deireadh an lá scoile amháin. Níl an tseirbhís ag 2pm mar pháirt den cheanglas sin. Mar sin, faoi Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Deiscirt atá sé a chinntiú cé acu tá sé ag dul a leithéid de sheirbhís a sholáthar nó nach bhfuil.
Education and Library Boards are required to provide transport assistance only at the start and end of the school day. The 2pm service lies outside of that requirement, so it is for the Southern Education and Library Board to determine whether or not to provide such a service.
Capital Building Programme
Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail the amount of funding available for the capital building programme in 2008-09.
(AQW 5523/08)
Ms C Ruane: £229.6 milliún an t-iomlán maidir leis an mhaoiniú caipiteach atá ar fáil don Roinn Oideachais sa bhliain 2008/09.
The total amount of capital funding available to the Department of Education in 2008/09 is £229.6m.
Townland Names
Mr Ford asked the Minister of Education 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 5540/08)
Ms C Ruane: Nuair a chuireann an Roinn comhfhreagras chuig scoileanna tríd an phost, baintear úsáid as ainmneacha bhailte fearainn a chuireann scoileanna ar fáil agus as cóid phoist. Baintear úsáid as an chur chuige chéanna i gcomhfhreagras le daoine aonair.
When sending correspondence by mail to schools my Department uses townland names provided by schools and postcodes. A similar approach is taken when corresponding with individuals.
Assembly Questions
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of (a) documents; and (b) answers to written Assembly questions, partially and completely translated into the Irish language by her department since taking up her post.
(AQW 5551/08)
Ms C Ruane: 349 documents have been partially or completely translated into the Irish language. This figure includes some that have been translated from Irish to English. 226 written Assembly questions have also been partially or completely translated into the Irish language.
£11,438 an caiteachas go dtí seo ar cháipéisí ar aistríodh cuid dóibh nó iad go hiomlán go Gaeilge.
Expenditure on documents partially or completely translated into the Irish language is £11,438. This figure is from 8 th May 2007 to 11 th April 2008 and includes some documents that have been translated from Irish to English. Expenditure on written Assembly questions partially or completely translated into the Irish language is £1,156.
Assembly Questions
Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education to provide a breakdown of the amount spent on (a) documents; and (b) answers to written Assembly questions, partially and completely translated into the Irish language by her department, since taking up her post.
(AQW 5553/08)
Ms C Ruane: 349 documents have been partially or completely translated into the Irish language. This figure includes some that have been translated from Irish to English. 226 written Assembly questions have also been partially or completely translated into the Irish language.
£11,438 an caiteachas go dtí seo ar cháipéisí ar aistríodh cuid dóibh nó iad go hiomlán go Gaeilge.
Expenditure on documents partially or completely translated into the Irish language is £11,438. This figure is from 8 th May 2007 to 11 th April 2008 and includes some documents that have been translated from Irish to English. Expenditure on written Assembly questions partially or completely translated into the Irish language is £1,156.
Irish Medium School
Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education to detail any proposal she has received for an Irish medium school in Dungannon and to outline (i) the number of pupils who have indicated they are willing to attend; (ii) the estimated cost of the proposal; and (iii) a timescale within which she intends to make a decision on this proposal.
(AQW 5581/08)
Ms C Ruane: The Southern Education and Library Board (SELB), at the request of the interim school Board of Governors, has published a Development Proposal (DP) for the establishment of a new Irish-medium primary school in Dungannon, to be known as Bunscoil Uí Chléirigh. The proposed opening date of the school is 1 September 2008 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The publication of the DP initiates a statutory 2-month period during which comments including objections may be offered to my Department. The 2-month period in this case will end in mid‑June and I will make a decision on the proposal as soon as possible thereafter.
Níl eolas faighte ag an Roinn go fóill a léiríonn líon na ndaltaí atá toilteanach freastal ar an scoil, nó costais mheasta a bhaineann leis an togra, cé go ndéanfar breithniú orthu sin agus an togra á scrúdú.
The department has not yet got information on numbers of pupils indicating they are willing to attend the school, or estimated costs associated with the proposal, though these will be considered in the examination of the proposal.
School Crossing Patrol Officers
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each of the last 5 years, the number of school crossing patrol officers employed by each of the Education and Library Boards.
(AQW 5592/08)
Ms C Ruane: Chuir na cúig Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlann (na Boird) an t-eolas seo a leanas ar fáil maidir le líon na maor tráchta scoile (SCPOs) a bhí fostaithe ar 1 Eanáir gach bliain ó 2004.
The five Education and Library Boards (the Boards) have provided the following information on the number of school crossing patrol officers (SCPOs) employed at 1 January each year since 2004.
Number of School Crossing Patrol Officers employed by the Education and Library Boards at 1 January in the 5 years commencing 2004
Board |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Belfast Board |
132 |
127 |
121 |
114 |
110 |
Western Board |
234 |
182 |
146 |
140 |
139 |
North Eastern Board |
152 |
152 |
150 |
149 |
148 |
South Eastern Board |
149 |
142 |
166 |
118 |
111 |
Southern Board |
220 |
213 |
208 |
155 |
152 |
TOTAL |
887 |
816 |
791 |
676 |
660 |
Irish Language
Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the total number of departmental documents that have been fully or partially translated into the Irish language; and (ii) the total cost of these translations.
(AQW 5625/08)
Ms C Ruane: Go nuige seo aistríodh 575 cáipéis, go Gaeilge, cuid dóibh nó iad ar fad. Go dtí seo is é £12,594. an costas a bhaineann leis na haistriúcháin seo.
575 documents have been translated fully or partially into the Irish language. The cost incurred to date in translating these documents is £12,594. These figures are from 8 th May 2007 to 11 th April 2008 and include some documents that have been translated from Irish to English. . Mr Elliott will be pleased to know that my Department is currently in the process of employing an Irish language officer
Sex Education
Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each Education and Library Board, the publications (i) used; and (ii) recommended for use, in (a) sex education; and (b) education about family relationships, in primary schools.
(AQW 5631/08)
Ms C Ruane: My Department does not hold the details of publications used in primary schools in the teaching of Personal Development and Mutual Understanding, which includes Relationships and Sexuality Education. It is the responsibility of individual schools to determine which resources they will use to deliver the revised curriculum. The Department’s Circular 2001/15 provides general guidance on the provision of Relationships and Sexuality Education.
Chuir an Chomhairle Churaclaim, Scrúdúcháin agus Mheasúnaithe acmhainn – Ag Maireachtáil – Ag Foghlaim – Le Chéile – ar fáil chun tacú le Forbairt Phearsanta agus Comhthuiscint a theagasc.
The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment has provided a resource – Living - Learning - Together – to support the teaching of Personal Development and Mutual Understanding.
Donaghadee High School
Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education in light of the likely recommendation for the closure of Donaghadee High School by 31 August 2009, will the Minister agree to a meeting with the Parents Action Group and me to discuss the proposal as agreed by her, before any final decision is made on the future of the school.
(AQW 5642/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt i mbun comhairliúcháin faoi láthair maidir le druidim féideartha na scoile sula bhfoilseofar moladh forbartha, rud a chuirfeadh tús le tréimhse chomhairliúcháin dhá mhí. Bheadh lúcháir orm bualadh leat agus le Grúpa Gníomhaíochta Tuismitheoirí leis an togra a phlé.
The South Eastern Education and Library Board is currently consulting on the potential closure of the school prior to publishing a development proposal which would initiate a two‑month consultation period. I would be happy to meet with you and Parents Action Group to discuss the proposal.
Ulster Scots Drama
Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education to detail the steps she is taking to promote and encourage Ulster Scots drama in schools.
(AQW 5665/08)
Ms C Ruane: The revised curriculum, which I am introducing, provides greater flexibility for schools to tailor their provision to meet the needs and interests of their pupils and the communities they serve .
Tá an drámaíocht ina cuid éigeantach den churaclam athbhreithnithe ón Bhonnchéim go dtí Eochairchéim 3 agus féadfaidh scoileanna, más mian leo, úsáid a bhaint as drámaíocht Albainis Uladh leis an chuid sin den churaclam a sheachadadh.
Drama is a compulsory part of the revised curriculum from Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3 and schools may, if they wish, provide for Ulster Scots drama in delivering this part of the curriculum.
Children Statemented
Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of children who have been statemented for the first time, in each of the five Education and Library Boards in each of the last five years.
(AQW 5674/08)
Ms C Ruane: Chuir Príomhfheidhmeannaigh na mBord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne (BOLí) in iúl domh gur seo a leanas líon na bpáistí a ndearnadh ráiteas riachtanais oideachais speisialta ina leith, i ngach ceann de na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne i ngach bliain de na cúig bliana seo caite:-
I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) that the number of children who have been statemented for the first time, in each of the five Education and Library Boards in each of the last five years is as follows:-
|
BELB |
NEELB |
SEELB |
SELB* |
WELB |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 224 | 330 | 698 | 476 | 248 |
| 2004 | 254 | 308 | 548 | 418 | 292 |
| 2005 | 287 | 378 | 442 | 353 | 304 |
| 2006 | 320 | 316 | 571 | 568 | 288 |
| 2007 | 389 | 311 | 384 | 532 | 330 |
- SELB data is recorded in financial years – numbers given refer to the financial years 2003/2004 – 2007/2008.
Vetting Systems
Mr McCartney asked the Minister of Education to detail her plans to work with her counterpart in the Republic of Ireland to regulate vetting systems for those working with children and young people throughout the island of Ireland.
(AQW 5691/08)
Ms C Ruane: Baineann Cosaint Páistí le gach duine agus tá an-tábhacht ag baint leis. D’fhreastail mé ar chruinniú de chuid na Comhairle Thuaidh Theas ar na mallaibh.
Child Protection is everyone’s business and collaboration and co operation are of vital importance. I recently attended a meeting of the North South Ministerial Council. The identification of measures to improve child protection, including an examination of an all-island approach, focusing on vetting and exchange of information were discussed. It was agreed that DHSSPS and the Office of the Minister for Children establish and co chair a cross border group to take this forward. My Department will continue to work closely with colleagues in DHSSPS on this and all other child protection matters.
South Eastern Education and Library Board
Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Education to confirm if it is necessary that all previous independent board members express their willingness to serve again on the South Eastern Education and Library Board.
(AQW 5724/08)
Ms C Ruane: On 8 April 2008 I had a very useful meeting with the Council nominees on the Board to discuss their readiness and willingness to take up their former responsibilities and to deliver those effectively.
I met with the Church representatives and General Interest members of the Board on 21 April, to advise them of the outcome of these discussions and to seek their views. Collectively, they are the majority of the membership and their participation will therefore be important if the Board is to be restored and discharge its role effectively.
I ndiaidh na díospóireachta seo beidh sé mar aidhm agam cinneadh deiridh a dhéanamh i dtaca le hathbhunú an Bhoird chomh luath agus is féidir.
Following these discussions it will be my aim to make a final decision on restoration of the Board as soon as possible.
South Eastern Education and Library Board
Mr McNarry asked the Minister of Education to provide a comparison of the current financial state of the South Eastern Education and Library Board with July 2006.
(AQW 5726/08)
Ms C Ruane: Since July 2006 the South Eastern Education and Library Board have continued to contain expenditure within budget whilst making repayments to both the Department and Schools in respect of outstanding deficits.
Táthar ag súil gur £13.6 mhilliún an luach a bheas ar an easnamh neamhíoctha, go dtí go bhfaighfear deimhniú i dtaca leis an staid dheiridh; caithfear fanacht go dtí go ndéanfar iniúchadh ar chuntas dheireadh na bliana 2007-08. Is laghdú £6.1 mhilliún é sin ar an staid airgeadais (easnamh) a tuairiscíodh ar 31 Márta 2006.
The value of the outstanding deficit as at March 2008 is expected to be £13.6 million, pending confirmation of final position following audit of the 2007-08 year end account. This is a reduction of £6.1 million on the reported financial position (deficit) at 31 March 2006.
Parkhall College
Mr Burns asked the Minister of Education to provide a timescale within which the proposed new school building for Parkhall College, Antrim, will be built.
(AQW 5734/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tá an phleanáil le haghaidh an fhoirgnimh úire scoile do Choláiste Parkhall breá forbartha; táthar ag fanacht le costais deartha dheiridh ó Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirthuaiscirt.
Planning of the new school building for Parkhall College is well advanced, with final design stage costs currently awaited from the North Eastern Education and Library Board. Subject to these being submitted to the Department in the near future and being satisfactory, it is estimated that construction work on the new building could start on site by the end of the year with an estimated two years to completion.
School Transport
Mr Burns asked the Minister of Education to detail (i) the amount of money that is spent by her department transporting children to grammar schools outside their own locality; and (ii) the proportion of her department's transport budget that this represents.
(AQW 5735/08)
Ms C Ruane: The information requested is not available in the required format and could only be provided at disproportionate cost. However, in 2006/07 transport assistance was provided to 26,503 voluntary grammar school pupils at a cost of £15.8 million. (Separate figures are not available for controlled grammar schools.) This equates to 24% of the total school transport budget.
Déarfainn chomh maith nach gnách cuidiú a chur ar fáil ach sa chás nach bhfuil páiste in ann áit a fháil i scoil fhóirsteanach taobh istigh den fhad siúil reachtúil 3 mhíle ó theach na dtuismitheoirí nó sa chás nach bhfuil a leithéid de scoil taobh istigh den fhad sin.
I should add that assistance is normally only provided where a child is unable to obtain a place in a suitable school within the statutory walking distance of 3 miles of the parents’ home or where no such suitable school exists within that distance.
Recycling
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the percentage of waste materials that are currently recycled at (i) Rathgael House; (ii) each Education and Library Board's headquarters; (iii) the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education headquarters; (iv) the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools' headquarters; and (v) each Education and Library Board's Training and Resource Centres.
(AQW 5741/08)
Ms C Ruane:
Tá céatadán an fhuíollábhair mar pháipéar, chairtchlár, phlaisteach, ghloine agus stán, a athchúrsáltar sna heagraíochtaí seo, leagtha amach thíos:
The percentage of waste materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic, glass and tin, recycled in these organisations is set out below:
- Rathgael House: 100%
- Education and Library Board Headquarters
- Belfast Education and Library Board Headquarters: 4%
- South Eastern Education and Library Board Headquarters: 8%
- Southern Education and Library Board Headquarters: 65%
- Western Education and Library Board Headquarters: 40%
- North Eastern Education and Library Board Headquarters: 90-95%
- the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education
Headquarters: 95% - the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools’
Headquarters: 35% - Education and Library Board Training and Resource Centres:
- Belfast Education and Library Board: Ulidia - 0%
- South Eastern Education and Library Board: No Training and Resource Centre
- Southern Education and Library Board:
- Newry Teachers’ Centre – 40%
- Armagh Teachers’ Centre – 25%
- Dungannon Teachers’ Centre - 25%
- Western Education and Library Board:
- North West Teachers’ Centre – 75%
- South West Teachers’ Centre – 0%
- Omagh Teachers’ Centre - 80%
- North Eastern Education and Library Board: Antrim Board Centre – 75-85%
Renewable Energy Resources
Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the schools that currently use renewable energy resources to generate (i) electricity; and (ii) heat, broken down by Education and Library Board area.
(AQW 5743/08)
Ms C Ruane: Tugann na táblaí seo a leanas sonraí, de réir cheantar Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne, faoi na scoileanna a bhfuil a n-acmhainn féin fuinnimh in-athnuaite acu le (i) leictreachas; agus (ii) teas a ghiniúint:
The following tables detail, by Education and Library Board area, the schools that have their own renewable energy resource to generate (i) electricity; and (ii) heat:
Board Area : Belfast Education and Library Board Area
| SCHOOL NAME | ENERGY SOURCE | (i) ELECTRICITY | (ii) USEABLE HEAT |
|---|---|---|---|
Cavehill Primary School |
Photovoltaic and wind turbine |
Yes |
No |
In addition, 87% of schools in the Belfast Education and Library Board area are supplied with their mains electricity under an eco energy tariff (i.e. electricity from a renewable source).
Board Area : Western Education and Library Board Area
| SCHOOL NAME | ENERGY SOURCE | (i) ELECTRICITY | (ii) USEABLE HEAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooley PS, Sixmilecross | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St Colmcille’s PS, Claudy | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St Patrick’s College, Dungiven | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Moat PS, Lisnaskea | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Castlederg HS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Florencecourt PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Newtownstewart Model PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St Anthony’s PS, Limavady | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Broadbridge PS, Derry | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St John’s Business & Enterprise College, Dromore, Co. Tyrone | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Knockavoe School & Resource Centre, Strabane | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St Ronan’s PS , Lisnaskea | Biomass | No | Yes |
| St Comhghall’s HS, Lisnaskea | Biomass | No | Yes |
| St Eugene’s College, Roslea | Biomass | No | Yes |
| St Aidan’s HS, Derrylin | Biomass | No | Yes |
| Edwards PS, Castlederg | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Holy Trinity PS, Enniskillen | Wind | Yes | No |
| Enniskillen Integrated Primary School | Geothermal Heat Pump | No | Yes |
In addition, 89% of schools in the Western Education and Library Board area are supplied with their mains electricity under an eco energy tariff (i.e. electricity from a renewable source).
Board Area : North Eastern Education and Library Area
| SCHOOL NAME | ENERGY SOURCE | (i) ELECTRICITY |
(ii) USEABLE HEAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broughshane PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Moneynick PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| New Row PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Damhead PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Gracehill PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Kells and Connor PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Mallusk PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Straidhavern PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Monkstown Community Sch | Solar Water Heating | No | Yes |
| Glengormley High School | Solar Water Heating | No | Yes |
| Dunseverick PS | Wind Turbine Generators | Yes | No |
| Glengormley High School | Wind Turbine Generators | Yes | No |
| Eden PS Carrickfergus | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Ampertaine PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St Patrick's PS, Loughguile | Wind Turbine Generators | Yes | No |
| Carrickfergus Model PS | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| St Nicholas PS, Carrickfergus | Photovoltaic | Yes | No |
| Larne Grammar School | Solar Panel | Yes | No |
In addition, 94% of schools in the North Eastern Education and Library Board area are supplied with their mains electricity under an eco energy tariff (i.e. electricity from a renewable source).
Board Area : South Eastern Education and Library Board Area
SCHOOL NAME |
ENERGY SOURCE |
(i) ELECTRICITY |
(ii) USEABLE HEAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Columba’s College, Portaferry | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Donaghadee High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Glenlola Collegiate | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Movilla High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Regent House | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Dundonald High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| St Colman’s High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| St Malachy’s High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Saintfield High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Parkview Special School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Lisnagarvey High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| Down High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| De La Salle High School | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| St Colmcille’s | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
| St Patrick’s High School, Lisburn | Thermal Solar Panels | No | Yes |
SCHOOL NAME |
ENERGY SOURCE |
(i) ELECTRICITY |
(ii) USEABLE HEAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Caolan’s Primary | Geothermal | No | Yes |
| Glenlola Collegiate | PV Panels for Electricity | Yes | No |
| St Malachy’s High School | PV Panels for Electricity | Yes | No |
| Saintfield High School | PV Panels for Electricity | Yes |