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.

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

Monday 04 August 2008

Written Answers to Questions

Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister

Hate Crime

Mr Elliott asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the action the department is taking to reduce the incidents of hate crime.

(AQW 4967/08)

The First Minister and deputy First Minister (Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness): The Executive is committed to tackling hate crimes wherever and however they occur.

While criminal justice matters remain to be transferred, we will work closely with the police service and criminal justice agencies to tackle all aspects of hate crime.

We are engaged with a wide range of partners to tackle hate crime and its causes. We support actions including promoting respect for rights for people with disabilities, youth projects, community bonfire initiatives, flags protocols, conflict resolution, research and reducing sectarian and racist tensions by summer diversionary actions, maintenance of mobile phone network for interface workers. We also support groups working to help minority ethnic people and migrant workers integrate with host communities. We are also currently working on a strategy to deal with discrimination and hate crime on the basis of sexual orientation.

We will shortly bring forward detailed proposals for the "Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration for a shared and better future' which was detailed in the PfG. At the core of these proposals will be action primarily to tackle sectarianism, racism and intolerance. The programme will build on some of the excellent work, particularly at the local level, to address the challenges which local communities are facing.

Sexual Orientation Strategy

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the development of a sexual orientation strategy.

(AQW 8237/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Officials are currently working on a draft Equal Opportunity and Anti-discrimination Strategy on Sexual Orientation to be presented to Ministers and the Assembly Committee for consideration in Autumn 2008.

Sexual Orientation Strategy

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what plans it has to link the sexual orientation strategy with the programme for cohesion, sharing and integration.

(AQW 8238/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

The Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration (CSI) is currently being considered by Ministers and we plan to present our proposals in the near future. The CSI strategy for a shared and better future will deal primarily with sectarianism and racism. The strategy will however cover all groups in our society with an overarching aim to achieve a shared and secure future for all.

Post-Primary Transfer Arrangements

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of whether matters relating to the issue of post-primary transfer arrangements are significant and controversial in accordance with Article 2.4 of the Ministerial Code.

(AQW 8317/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: In relation to whether matters relating to the issue of post-primary transfer arrangements are significant and controversial in accordance with Article 2.4 of the Ministerial Code, we would refer you to the provisions of Assembly Standing Order 19(3).

In addition, the Minister of Education brought a paper to the Executive on a range of issues relating to post-primary transfer for consideration at its meeting on 15 May 2008. The Executive has not yet taken a decision on these issues.

Post-Primary Transfer Arrangements

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what aspects of post-primary transfer arrangements need to be considered and agreed by the Executive, on the basis of Article 2.4(v) of the Ministerial Code, given that the issue was not addressed within the Programme for Government.

(AQW 8318/08)

Employment Opportunities for People with Learning Disabilities

Ms S Ramsey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what action it is taking to ensure that Departments and public bodies are providing equality of employment opportunity to people with learning disabilities.

(AQW 8397/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA 1995, as amended), requires all public authorities when carrying out its functions to have due regard to the need to:

promote positive attitudes towards disabled people; and

encourage participation by disabled people in public life (‘the disability duties’).

The DDA 1995, as amended, further required all public authorities, by 30 June 2007, to submit to the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland (ECNI) a Disability Action Plan showing how it proposed to fulfil these duties in relation to its functions. In support of this, each public authority is required to report on progress achieved to date (July 2007 to March 2008). ECNI has requested that this should be done via the Section 75 Annual Progress Report. This is currently being completed by all designated public authorities.

Further, Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 places a statutory obligation on all designated public authorities to ensure that they carry out their various functions having due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity across 9 social categories, including: persons of different religious belief, political opinion, racial group, age, marital status or sexual orientation; men and women generally; persons with a disability and persons without; and persons with dependants and persons without.

The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland is required to keep under review the effectiveness of the duties imposed by Section 75, including the requirement to investigate complaints of failure to comply with Section 75; and, in certain circumstances, to make referrals to the Secretary of State.

As an employer, the Northern Ireland Civil Service is subject to the DDA 1995. In addition to its statutory objectives, it regularly reviews its employment policies and practices to ensure they provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement to all, including those with a disability. Departments make reasonable adjustments across the range of employment practices including recruitment and selection, training and development, and working arrangements, to ensure people with disabilities are not disadvantaged compared to non-disabled people. Such adjustments are agreed on a case by case basis to meet the specific needs of individuals, including those with learning disabilities.

Representation in EU Structures

Mrs Long asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the level and nature of representation of Northern Ireland within the various structures of the European Union, in addition to the 3 MEPs; and the level of engagement of Ministers of the Executive with the European Union in the last 6 months.

(AQW 8530/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

Northern Ireland’s representation, excluding MEPs, within the European Union is:

European Body

Northern Ireland Representatives

Committee of the Regions

Councillor Edwin Poots MLA

Councillor Lord Morrow MLA

Councillor Sue Ramsey MLA*

Councillor Bernice Swift

European Economic and Social Committee

Jane Morrice

Michael Smyth

* Sue Ramsey has been nominated to replace Conor Murphy MP, MLA

The level of engagement of Executive Ministers with the European Union over the last six months is:

Date	Details
10 January	Minister Gildernew met with Commissioner Fischer Boel and President Barroso in Brussels.
14 March	Minister Gildernew met with Commissioner Fischer Boel in Brussels.
1 April	Minister Gildernew met with Commissioner Joe Borg in Brussels.
23 June	Minister Gildernew attended an Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting in Luxembourg and met with Commissioner Vassilou.
24 January	Minister Dodds attended a reception to promote Aerospace NI in Brussels.
14 April	Minister Robinson and Commissioner Hübner launched the 2007-13 European Regional Development Fund Programmes in Belfast.
23 April	Minister Empey addressed the European Commission’s Employment and Social Policy Seminar in Belfast.
5 June	Minister Empey delivered the opening address at the 5th Annual Anti-Discrimination Conference "Communicating Equality and Non-Discrimination in the EU" in Belfast.
9/10 January	First Minister and deputy First Minister met with President Barroso in Brussels to discuss the Commission’s Northern Ireland Task Force. The visit also included meetings with Commissioners Hübner and Fischer Boel.
14 April	Commissioner Hübner formally launched the Northern Ireland Report of the Task Force in Belfast with the First Minister and deputy First Minister.
28 April	The First Minister and deputy First Minister in conjunction with the European Economic and Social Committee paid tribute to the PEACE Programme founders in the University of Ulster, Jordanstown. This event preceded an evidence gathering session by the EESC for an ‘own initiative opinion’ on the PEACE Programmes.

In addition, the Junior Ministers within OFMDFM have engaged with the European Union as follows:

9/10 January	Both Junior Ministers accompanied the First Minister and deputy First Minister when meeting President Barroso and Commissioners Hübner and Fischer Boel in Brussels.
14 March	Junior Minister Donaldson accompanied Minister Gildernew when meeting Commissioner Fischer Boel in Brussels.
2 April	Both Junior Ministers met with Commissioner Hübner in advance of the publication of the Barosso Taskforce report
14 April	Both Junior Ministers attended the formal launch of the Northern Ireland Report of the Task Force in Belfast with Commissioner Hübner.

Definition of Cohesion

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what is its understanding of the concept of 'cohesion' within the context of the forthcoming programme for cohesion, sharing and integration.

(AQW 8531/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Programme for Government’s overarching aim is ‘to build a peaceful, fair and prosperous society in Northern Ireland, with respect for the rule of law and where everyone can enjoy a better quality of life now and in years to come’.

In support of this aim one of PfG’s cross cutting themes is ‘A shared and better future for all with equality, fairness, inclusion and the promotion of good relations’ as the watchwords for policies and programmes across government. The Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration (CSI) will be the overarching strategy to provide a good relations, good race relations and racial equality policy context to achieve the aim.

Development of the CSI Programme is at an advanced stage and will be published for consultation as soon as possible. It will explain in more detail what we mean by the terms ‘cohesion’, ‘sharing’ and ‘integration’. This Strategy aims to build on very significant work, which has been ongoing for a long time, to develop cohesion within and between communities to enhance the already growing mutual respect and to foster integration of new communities.

The terms are used in a manner fully consistent with their dictionary definition.

Definition of Sharing

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what is its understanding of the concept of 'sharing' within the context of the forthcoming programme for cohesion, sharing and integration.

(AQW 8532/08)

The terms are used in a manner fully consistent with their dictionary definition.

Definition of Integration

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what is its understanding of the concept of 'integration' within the context of the forthcoming programme for cohesion, sharing and integration.

(AQW 8533/08)

The terms are used in a manner fully consistent with their dictionary definition.

Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what factors have contributed to the delay in publishing a draft report of the programme for cohesion, sharing and integration.

(AQW 8534/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness:

We are now at an advanced stage of development of the detailed proposals for a ‘Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration for a shared and better future’, which was signalled in the Programme for Government. The specific objective (PSA 7.5) commits us to implement the programme during this current year 08/09.

OFMDFM officials briefed the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister on the position regarding development of the proposed Programme in early April. The consultation document will be put to the Committee of the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister shortly.

The new programme will tackle the complex and longstanding issue of sectarianism as well as the more recent issue of racism which is affecting both the established communities as well as new arrivals. It will build on the excellent work which is already being done, particularly by district councils and community organisations, to address the challenges which local communities are facing. Action to tackle sectarianism, racism and intolerance will be at the core of these proposals. As this policy is pivotal to achieving ‘a peaceful, fair and prosperous society with respect for the rule of law’ we are ensuring that the Programme proposals will contribute to this aim.

We have repeatedly stated our commitment to working towards building a society at ease with itself – a society that is integrated, cohesive and where everyone who lives here is regarded as of equal status and is treated as such – the new programme will work towards this.

Painting of Flags and Kerbstones

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the proliferation of flags and kerbstone painting during the summer on attracting investment to (i) Northern Ireland as a whole; and (ii) particular localities where the displays occur.

(AQW 8709/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Reports on the nature and quantum of flag flying in the summers of 2006 and 2007 were published by OFMDFM in January 2007 and March 2008 respectively. The research is currently being conducted on behalf of OFMDFM, by Queen’s University of Belfast, for July and September of this year. The initial findings should be available in November 2008.

The public display of flags and emblems remains a very widespread issue. However, it is not possible to fully quantify the potential impact that the proliferation of flags and kerbstones painted during the summer has on the economy, or in particular localities where displays occur.

Deprivation and Segregation Linkage in Society

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the correlation between high levels of deprivation and poverty, and high levels of sectarian tensions and segregation in society.

(AQW 8743/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Programme for Government recognises that continuing evidence of sectarianism; racism and intolerance are blights on our economic prospects and have a corrosive effect on our society. In order to achieve the PfG aim of "a peaceful, fair and prosperous society" it is the goal that "everyone can enjoy a better quality of life now and in years to come"

OFMDFM continues to be committed to addressing the issues of deprivation and poverty and of sectarian tension and segregation. The forthcoming Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration will set out proposals for good relations and good race relations

In addition, in line with the statutory commitment under Section 28 E of Northern Ireland Act 1998 the Executive Committee will shortly consider and agree the adoption of an overall strategy to tackle poverty, social exclusion and patterns of deprivation here based on objective need.

Relocation of Revenue and Customs Jobs

Mr McGlone asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what representation has been made to Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs in relation to the proposed downsizing and relocation of jobs from their offices in Craigavon, Newry and Banbridge.

(AQW 8801/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Changes to the HMRC estate are an internal matter for HM Revenue and Customs. However, following representations from local HMRC employees we have written to the Treasury Minister, the Rt Hon Jane Kennedy MP, raising their concerns.

Halloween Bonfire Complaints

Mr Moutray asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many complaints it has received in relation to the possible adverse effect on community relations of Halloween bonfires in each of the last five years.

(AQW 8807/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister has no record of any complaints relating to the possible adverse effect on community relations of Halloween bonfires.

Equality Legislation and the Right to Religious Expression

Mr Storey asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to his answer to AQO 4118/08, if it will consider amending all existing equality legislation to include guaranteeing the right to religious expression.

(AQW 8823/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: There are no plans to amend current equality legislation to provide for such a right. The Human Rights Act 1998 provides certain rights in relation to freedom of religion and freedom of expression. In addition, considerable anti-discrimination legislation currently protects the right not to be discriminated against on the basis of religious belief.

Planning Appeals Commission

Mr Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many cases were submitted to the Planning Appeals Commission on the grounds of non-determination in each of the last five years.

(AQW 8828/08)

Mr P Robinson 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 have provided in the table below, figures for the intake of appeals which were submitted to the Planning Appeals Commission on the grounds of non-determination in each of the last five financial years.

Year

03/04

04/05

05/06

06/07

07/08

Appeals received

111

261

250

416

35

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."

Changing Times Stormont Magazine

Mrs D Kelly asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how much money has been spent on the Changing Times Stormont magazine.

(AQW 8848/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Executive Information Service has not incurred any expenditure in relation to this document to date. However the indication is that the cost of the preparatory work is likely to be between £7,000 and £8,000. The exact figure has yet to be agreed with the service provider and we will be invoiced accordingly.

2008 Belfast Gay Pride Parade

Mr Kennedy asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister how much funding it is allocating to the 2008 Belfast Gay Pride Parade.

(AQW 8860/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Coalition on Sexual Orientation (CoSO) has contributed to the 2007 and 2008 Belfast Gay Pride Parade, awarding £5,750 and £5,000 respectively, from a short term fund of £230,000 which was awarded by the previous Direct Rule administration.

The broad purposes of the fund include improving community relations, helping build capacity, and helping others understand the issues faced by lesbian, gay and bisexual people, such as social exclusion and marginalisation. The Fund is administered by the Coalition on Sexual Orientation, an umbrella group for the sector.

Emerald Fund

Mr O'Loan asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if it is encouraging Departments and their Agencies to seek funding from the Emerald Fund.

(AQW 8907/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: While we very much welcome the creation of the Fund, it is important to note that it would not be an additional source of funds that Departments can simply access to top-up public expenditure allocations contained in the Budget.

The precise operation of the Emerald Fund is still under development, but we understand that this could also include areas of infrastructure provision that fall within the private sector such as energy and telecommunications.

Emerald Fund

Mr O'Loan asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if the Executive has taken a decision on the merits of Departments bidding for additional resources from the Emerald Fund.

(AQW 8908/08)

Emerald Fund

Mr O'Loan asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister if it has issued guidelines to other Departments in relation to bidding for additional resources from the Emerald fund.

(AQW 8909/08)

Planning Appeals

Mr Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister what action it is taking to expedite extensions and dwelling applications for disabled people, referred to the Planning Appeals Commission, to ensure that these cases are dealt with as soon as possible.

(AQW 8927/08)

Mr P Robinson 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 have been asked to provide you with information requested in the above Assembly Question.

The Planning Appeals Commission deals with appeals in the order in which they are received. By adopting this approach it ensures that all appellants are treated equally and fairly. The procedures used by the Planning Appeals Commission are available via the Commissions website at 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 "

Cost of Living Sub-Committee

Mr Shannon asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the role a Cost of Living Sub-Committee would play in eradicating child poverty.

(AQW 8931/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: We recognise that recent, well publicised increases in fuel and energy costs are having an impact on the cost of living for all of us. We also recognise that it is to be expected that those most vulnerable and less well-off in our society will feel the effects of these price increases more acutely.

The Executive will soon consider proposals in respect of its adoption of a strategy to tackle poverty and social exclusion and patterns of deprivation, in line with its statutory obligation. These considerations will take account of the recommendations of the OFMDFM Committee following its inquiry into child poverty here.

The proposals include the establishment of an Executive Sub-Committee to agree and monitor key actions in relation to poverty. These actions will be taken forward in a co-ordinated way across Departments to deliver our commitments within the Programme for Government, to eliminate poverty.

Within its considerations the Executive will look at any proposals to establish a sub-committee.

Mixed Workplaces

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister the proportion of (i) Protestants; and (ii) people from mixed or other backgrounds, who would avoid working or applying for a job in an area perceived as Catholic/Nationalist, based on the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey and other reports.

(AQW 8951/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: In the results of the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey, 9% of Protestants said that, if applying for a job they would definitely avoid workplaces situated in a mainly Catholic area and a further 20% said that they would probably avoid such workplaces. The figures for Catholics who said that they would avoid workplaces situated in a mainly Protestant area were 9% (definitely) and 25% (probably).

It is not possible to provide figures for the second part of either of these questions because firstly, the number of respondents falling into the mixed or other background is too small for meaningful analysis.

Figures are available for those respondents who described themselves as having no religion; 3% within this group said that when applying for a job they would definitely avoid workplaces situated in a mainly Catholic area and a further 16% said that they would probably avoid such workplaces. The equivalent figures for workplaces situated in a mainly Protestant area were 3% and 5%, respectively.

We are unaware of any other reports that have specifically investigated the likelihood of the general public to avoid working or applying for a job in areas that are perceived to be Protestant/Unionist or Catholic/Nationalist.

Mixed Workplaces

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister the proportion of (i) Catholics; and (ii) people from mixed or other backgrounds, who would avoid working or applying for a job in an area perceived as Protestant/Unionist, based on the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey and other reports.

(AQW 8952/08)

Mixed Workplaces

Dr Farry asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister for its assessment of the desire for mixed workplaces, based on the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey and other reports.

(AQW 8953/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: The Programme for Government commits us to "A shared and better future for all". It also makes the commitment that "equality, fairness, inclusion and the promotion of good relations will be watchwords for all of our policies and programmes across Government". It is our policy to promote a society that is integrated and one that is based on tolerance and respect for cultural diversity. Successful integration in the workplace would go someway toward achieving such a society.

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Mr Gardiner asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail all the land vested in 1941 and 1942 by the Secretary of State for Air and administered by the then Northern Ireland Ministry of Finance, to build the airfield at Long Kesh/Maze, including (i) names of the previous owners; (ii) acreages vested; (iii) details and references of the land registry folios; (iv) the date of vesting; and (v) the compensation paid in each case.

(AQW 8976/08)

Mr P Robinson and Mr M McGuinness: Only limited information is available within the Department in relation to the land and property vested at the Maze/Long Kesh site. The majority of the detailed information requested is held at the Land Registry Office (LRO).

Folio No 28613 County Down contains the details of all registered and unregistered land vested between 7 October 1941 and 18 November 1942 to create the Maze/Long Kesh site.

Details of the previous owners, acreage vested, and compensation paid is held on the Land Certificates and Transfer Deeds which are available from the Land Registry Office (LRO) at a small cost. There were 48 vestings and upward of 56 transfer deeds involved in the process.

Concerning land vested after 1942, Folio No 29420 County Down and Folio No 30155 County Down respectively contains details of a north western corner of the site acquired by the Ministry of Supply on 16 November 1950 and two very small pieces of land acquired by the Ministry of Supply in 1951.

All buildings and structures currently on the site form part of the vested property.

Some of the original land vested has been resold and Folio Numbers DN 62786, 29420 and 30155 County Down specify the current land holding for the Maze/Long Kesh site.

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Mr Gardiner asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail all the previously unregistered land vested in 1941 and 1942 by the Secretary of State for Air and administered by the then Northern Ireland Ministry of Finance, to build the airfield at Long Kesh/Maze, including (i) names of the previous owners; (ii) acreages vested; (iii) details and references of the land registry folios; (iv) the date of vesting; and (v) the compensation paid in each case.

(AQW 8977/08)

Folio No 28613 County Down contains the details of all registered and unregistered land vested between 7 October 1941 and 18 November 1942 to create the Maze/Long Kesh site.

All buildings and structures currently on the site form part of the vested property.

Some of the original land vested has been resold and Folio Numbers DN 62786, 29420 and 30155 County Down specify the current land holding for the Maze/Long Kesh site.

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Mr Gardiner asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any land vested by any Northern Ireland or Whitehall Government Department, subsequent to 1942, which was incorporated into the Long Kesh/Maze site, including (i) names of the previous owners; (ii) acreages vested; (iii) details and references of the land registry folios; (iv) the date of vesting; and (v) the compensation paid in each case.

(AQW 8978/08)

Folio No 28613 County Down contains the details of all registered and unregistered land vested between 7 October 1941 and 18 November 1942 to create the Maze/Long Kesh site.

All buildings and structures currently on the site form part of the vested property.

Some of the original land vested has been resold and Folio Numbers DN 62786, 29420 and 30155 County Down specify the current land holding for the Maze/Long Kesh site.

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Mr Gardiner asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail all properties, with relevant folio references, which make up the entirety of the Long Kesh/Maze site.

(AQW 8979/08)

Folio No 28613 County Down contains the details of all registered and unregistered land vested between 7 October 1941 and 18 November 1942 to create the Maze/Long Kesh site.

All buildings and structures currently on the site form part of the vested property.

Some of the original land vested has been resold and Folio Numbers DN 62786, 29420 and 30155 County Down specify the current land holding for the Maze/Long Kesh site.

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Mr Gardiner asked the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any facilities vested in 1941 and 1942 by the Secretary of State for Air and administered by the then Northern Ireland Ministry of Finance, to build the airfield at Long Kesh/Maze.

(AQW 8982/08)

Folio No 28613 County Down contains the details of all registered and unregistered land vested between 7 October 1941 and 18 November 1942 to create the Maze/Long Kesh site.

All buildings and structures currently on the site form part of the vested property.

Some of the original land vested has been resold and Folio Numbers DN 62786, 29420 and 30155 County Down specify the current land holding for the Maze/Long Kesh site.

Agriculture and Rural Development

Bio-Fuel Production

Mr Gardiner asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what acreage of the total agricultural land available is under cultivation for bio-fuels and what does this represent as a percentage of the total available agricultural land.

(AQW 8582/08)

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms M Gildernew): In relation to liquid bio-fuel production, agriculture within the North is predominantly grass based, with only 3 per cent devoted to cereal and oilseed crops in 2007. However, areas of both cropping and oilseed rape have been considerably higher in the past than at present.

The last two Farm Census Surveys indicate that 470 hectares of oilseed rape was planted in June 2006 and this dropped slightly to 397 hectares in June 2007. A very small proportion of this will have been used for the production of bio-fuel and mainly used to fuel on farm vehicles.

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

In the absence of any significant change in land use patterns, the quantities of cereals and oilseeds grown in the North could not support significant biodiesel/bio-ethanol production.

In relation to biomass production, DARD estimates that in the region of 800 hectares of SRC willow have been established. This represents less that 0.1% of the total available agricultural land.

Flood Defence Programme

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline her flood defence programme; how the programme will be extended over the next ten years; on what evidence her plans are based; and what budgetary provision she has made, or plans to make, to meet these obligations.

(AQW 8596/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Rivers Agency’s Flood defence programme within its current Business Plan includes the following main activities:-

Undertaking a prioritised programme of viable capital works to provide accepted standards of flood protection;

Planned inspection of all designated man made flood and sea defences and culverts;

Assessment of the adequacy of rivers, streams and culverts to carry increased flows where new housing, industrial or commercial development is proposed;

Emergency response to watercourse-related flooding incidents as part of co-ordinated Government response;

The development of Asset Management Plans relating to the condition of culverts, flood defences etc.

The Agency has a detailed 5 year programme of Capital expenditure, with current funding at £6m, per year which contains projects associated with the main elements mentioned above. The Agency has a prioritised programme of capital works schemes which comprise River and Coastal Flood Defence, Drainage infrastructure and Repair Schemes.

The Agency’s programme also encompasses broader Flood Management – the requirement for more sustainable approaches to managing flood risk. These include production of strategic Flood Mapping for use in the identification of areas at risk from flooding and, as a consultee of DOE Planning Service, the prevention of development taking place in such areas.

The EU Directive on the Assessment and Management of Floods (Floods Directive) has been adopted and is creating a significant impact and new obligations for Rivers Agency as the competent authority under the Directive as transposed in Northern Ireland. These include assessment of areas at risk of flooding, mapping and the production of Management Plans by 2015. This Directive is key to the future direction of the Agency’s management of flooding and its constituent parts. Appropriate budgetary provision will be made to meet these obligations.

Environmental protection and adaptation to climate change are also important issues for the Agency in taking forward its flood defence programme.

Rural White Paper

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development when will she initiate the Rural White Paper and when will the consultation process be completed.

(AQW 8668/08)

Ms M Gildernew: On 24 April, the Executive agreed my proposal to develop a Rural White Paper. I am in the process of establishing a Rural Policy Committee, chaired by myself and made up of senior officials from all Departments, to develop the Rural White Paper. A new team is also being established in DARD to progress this important piece of work. I am also currently considering how best to involve stakeholders in the development of this paper.

Preparation of the paper will take time if we are to aim for a meaningful outcome, and it is my intention to produce initial proposals for the Executive by the end of 2008. If agreed, these proposals will then be developed during 2009 into a wide ranging Rural White Paper with subsequent full public consultation on the document.

Cycle Trail at Cairn Wood

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if the Forestry Service allows access to cyclists at Cairn Wood near Bangor.

(AQW 8671/08)

Ms M Gildernew: No access is permitted at Cairn Wood for cyclists. This is a small area of forest that has not been developed for cycling. Cairn Wood has not been considered suitable for development for cycling due to its small size, existing levels of public access, steep slopes and limited infrastructure.

Cycle Trail at Cairn Wood

Mr B Wilson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will direct the Forestry Service to investigate the possibility of providing a family cycle trail at Cairn Wood near Bangor.

(AQW 8672/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Considerable work has already been undertaken by interested parties and government agencies, including Forest Service, to establish a strategic approach to the development of off- road cycling, including the provision of family cycle trails.

This work has considered a wide range of factors relating to the suitability of sites for development. Family cycle trails have been constructed within three of the Department’s forests, taking account of these factors, which offered sufficient scope to accommodate a suitable trail of reasonable length, whilst avoiding safety issues arising from steep slopes. Cairn Wood, due to its size and topography and lack of general infrastructure, is considered to be not suitable and Forest Service has no further plans for such provision.

Rural Childcare Opportunities in Northern Ireland

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what action she is taking to ensure that rural childcare opportunities are widely available across Northern Ireland.

(AQW 8678/08)

Ms M Gildernew: In July 2007 I initiated the Rural Childcare Stakeholder Group and was pleased to present its report "Rural Childcare, Investing in the Future" to the Ministerial Sub Committee on Children and Young People in March 2008. This Sub-Committee is considering the cross cutting recommendations of this report.

My officials are developing a Rural Childcare Programme to be open for applications before the end of 2008. This will be funded from the Department’s budget for Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Measures.

Further childcare funding opportunities will be available from the NI Rural Development Programme, 2007-2013 under Axis 3 "quality of life in rural areas and diversification of the rural economy" measures. It will be open to the Local Action Groups in developing strategies for their areas to propose appropriate childcare measures.

Local Postal Services

Mr Dallat asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what consideration has been given and what progress has been made by her Department to utilise the Post Office as a source, agency or outlet for the delivery of its services as outlined in the May 2008 report of the Assembly's Ad Hoc Committee, 'Report of the Committee’s Consideration of, and Proposals for, Partnership that could Enhance the Economic Case for Viable Local Postal Services'.

(AQW 8690/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Ad Hoc Committee on Local Postal Services’ Report made a number of recommendations to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) concerning the future of Postal Services and the Post Office network.Junior Minister Donaldson and Junior Minister Kelly wrote to Executive Ministers on 21 April asking them to consider whether any further public services could be delivered through post offices.

Within the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development we have been unable to identify any services that could be delivered through Post Offices. We will continue to look at opportunities as they arise to consider whether any new public service could be delivered through the Post Office although these would be subject to the appropriate NI procurement policy.

Grants to Assist the Farming Community

Mr Doherty asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (i) for an inventory of grants which are available from the Department to assist the farming community; and (ii) the purposes, objectives and eligibility criteria for these grants.

(AQW 8802/08)

Ms M Gildernew: A table listing the grants available to assist the farming community has been placed in the Assembly Library (subsidy schemes have been excluded from this information).

Safety on Farms

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what discussions she has had with Farmers' Unions to improve safety on farms.

(AQW 8827/08)

Ms M Gildernew: I have not had specific discussions with the Farmers’ Unions regarding the improvement of safety on farms, because responsibility for farm safety lies with the Health and Safety Executive for NI within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment.

I am however, very conscious of the risks and dangers faced by farmers as they carry out their work. Improving safety and preventing accidents on farm is included as an integral component of the further and higher education programmes delivered by my Department through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, (CAFRE).

Students enrolled on these programmes receive training in the safe use and operation of farm machinery, safe movement and handling of livestock, safe use of pesticides, emergency first aid procedures and safe lifting techniques.

CAFRE also offers a similar range of health and safety related training courses for farmers and family farm members. These courses are delivered at the CAFRE Campuses and at local outreach centres throughout the North.

Development Service of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what strategies she is considering to encourage young people to stay at work on the farm.

(AQW 8890/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department, primarily through the Development Service of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), provides support and assistance to those farmers of all age groups who wish to develop their farm business and secure their future in the industry.

CAFRE’s team of Development Advisers, who are located throughout the North, work with farmers through delivery of tailored Development Plans for their businesses. Through this process, business objectives and development needs are identified and the appropriate support agreed. Development Advisers provide support to these farmers through delivery of: -

Benchmarking which enables farmers to compare their business / farm enterprise performance with other similar businesses.
Knowledge and Technology Transfer – through a diverse range of projects, CAFRE encourages farmers to adopt world-class, leading edge technology.
Training – CAFRE has developed a wide portfolio of short courses and Challenge programmes to meet the competence development needs of those within the industry.

For those young people wishing to pursue a career in farming, CAFRE also provides Further and Higher Education programmes in agriculture. Courses ranging from NVQ level 2 to Honours Degree level, (which is delivered in partnership with The Queen’s University of Belfast), are available at CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus in Antrim. The NVQ part-time programmes are also available at CAFRE’s Enniskillen Campus.

As well as its considerable education programme, my Department offers financial assistance to new entrants to the farming industry. The New Entrants Scheme is open to young farmers under 40 who possess adequate competence and are setting up as head of holding for the first time. The scheme provides an interest rate subsidy on loans for eligible projects that add value and make a positive impact on the farming industry and the NI rural economy.

There are also a number of measures within the NIRDP which are designed to support farmers who wish to stay at work on the farm. For example, benchmarking, focus farms, and supply chain measures, as well as the reskilling/upskilling measure which has been aligned with the NIRDP.

Damage to Wind Turbines

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many wind turbines have broken and caused damage; and what steps she is taking to prevent further damage and possible injury.

(AQW 8901/08)

Ms M Gildernew: My Department provided financial assistance to 26 applicants to the Wind Energy for Rural Business scheme under the E.U. Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity. I am very concerned that serious problems have occurred, primarily with regards to the make of turbine supplied to 11 of these applicants. It is my understanding that when damage to property was reported, the manufacturers of the machines in question immediately requested that all 11 applicants with these turbines cease to operate them until the problems were rectified.

I further understand that the manufacturer has committed to resolving the problems under warranty and that a test turbine has been installed with the aim of identifying and rolling out modifications, to all problem turbines. This has, regrettably become a protracted process.

While my Department has no legal standing in the contractual relationship between the supplier/manufacturer and the rural businesses, it is nevertheless keen to assist further, if possible, in helping to bring about a satisfactory resolution to this situation. To that end, a review has been commissioned, by the Department, to investigate the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in the scheme, with the intention of identifying potential options for resolution.

As part of the review a professional engineer will be employed to assess technical aspects of the project, the compliance of parties to their contract obligations, and to provide advice on whether these turbines can be made operational.

It is intended that the review will report in September.

Sale of Crossnacreevy site

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she intends to proceed with the sale of the Crossnacreevy site, in light of its much reduced value.

(AQW 8929/08)

Ms M Gildernew: No final decision has yet been taken regarding the possible sale of the Crossnacreevy site. That decision will be guided by an overall assessment of the costs and benefits of re-locating the AFBI functions currently undertaken at Crossnacreevy, AFBI’s future estate needs across its entire business and the possible proceeds from the disposal of the Crossnacreevy site. AFBI is currently developing a business case that will inform this assessment.

Crossnacreevy Site Devaluation

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what effect the reduced value of the Crossnacreevy site will have on her budgetary plans.

(AQW 8930/08)

Ms M Gildernew: DFP has been advised that the sale of the Crossnacreevy site would be unlikely to generate a receipt of £200m in 2010/11 but there has been no amendment to the Department’s budgetary plans to date. An assessment of the position of Departments in relation to Capital requirements and receipt targets is to be carried out in the context of a Strategic Stocktake in the autumn. This will consider the position at NI Block level and take into account the ten year ISNI programme of some £1,900m.

Crossnacreevy Site Valuation and Farmers' Grants

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development will there be any affect on the delivery of promised grants to farmers as a result of the devaluation of the Crossnacreevy site.

(AQW 8932/08)

Ms M Gildernew: There are no indications at this stage that there will be any effect on the delivery of grants to farmers. DFP has been advised that the sale of the Crossnacreevy site would be unlikely to generate a receipt of £200m in 2010/11 but there has been no amendment to the Department’s budgetary plans. An assessment of the position of Departments in relation to Capital requirements and receipt targets is to be carried out in the context of a Strategic Stocktake in the autumn. This will consider the position at NI Block level and take into account the ten year ISNI programme of some £1,900m.

Pig Producers

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many pig producers were operating in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 8954/08)

Ms M Gildernew: Number of Pig Farms operating in the last 3 years

Year	Number of Pig Farms
2005	438
2006	452
2007	490

As most pig farmers only have one pig holding, the number of farms is a good approximation to the number of pig producers.

Pig Meat Imports

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how much pig meat was imported in each of the last three years.

(AQW 8955/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development does not maintain this information centrally. Pig meat of EU origin can move freely between Member States. Information does exist in relation to imports from a Third Country direct to here. However, information does not exist in relation to indirect importations. This is due to the fact that once imports from countries outside the European Union enter through the Border Inspection Post (BIP) in any Member State, they are issued with a Common Veterinary Entry Document which permits them to move freely within the EU. Under EU Trade rules, these products are permitted to move freely within the EU.

Table A below details the imports of pig meat directly from Third Countries to here.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board maintain figures for pig meat imports into the UK as a whole. These figures are detailed in Table B below.

TABLE A- PIG MEAT IMPORTED DIRECT FROM THIRD COUNTRIES.

(‘000 Tonnes)	2005	2006	2007	Jan-June 2008
	23.9	0.0	0.0	0.0

TABLE B- UK PIG MEAT IMPORTS

(‘000 tonnes)	2005	2006	2007	Jan-April 2008
	432.0	458.8	465.1	147.3

Source: Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board

Red Meat Imports

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how much red meat was imported in each of the last three years.

(AQW 8956/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development does not maintain this information centrally. Red meat of EU origin can move freely between Member States. Information does exist in relation to imports from a Third Country direct to here. However, information does not exist in relation to indirect importations. This is due to the fact that once imports from countries outside the European Union enter through the Border Inspection Post (BIP) in any Member State; they are issued with a Common Veterinary Entry Document which permits them to move freely within the EU. Under EU Trade rules, these products are permitted to move freely within the EU.

Table A details the imports of red meat directly from Third Countries to here.

The Livestock and Meat Commission monitor and maintain figures of beef imports to the UK. Similarly the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board maintain figures for lamb imports into the UK as a whole. The composite figures are detailed in Table B and C below respectively.

TABLE A –RED MEAT IMPORTED DIRECTLY FROM THIRD COUNTRIES

(‘000 Tonnes)	2005	2006	2007	Jan-June 2008
Lamb	2391.2	550.1	1,450.4	543.4
Beef	0.0	49.6	124.5	73.1
Venison	0.0	28.6	0.0	16.7

TABLE B- UK BEEF IMPORTS

(‘000 tonnes)	2005	2006	2007	Jan-April 2008

Total imports	239.9	235.7	238.3	79.2

from EU-27	176.4	180.1	184.8	62.9
from non EU-27	63.5	55.5	53.5	16.3

Main Sources
ROI	136.5	145.0	145.9	48.7
Brazil	32.2	28.6	25.9	5.5

Other Sources
Germany	9.2	11.0	12.9	3.9
The Netherlands	12.7	12.8	15.3	5.1
Uruguay	7.0	7.6	9.3	6.6
Australia	4.7	6.2	4.0	0.9
Namibia	5.9	3.5	4.8	**
Botswana	3.5	2.4	3.9	**
Argentina	9.1	5.0	3.5	1.7

Source: Meat and Livestock Commission

** No figures available

TABLE C-UK LAMB IMPORTS

(‘000 tonnes)	2005	2006	2007	Jan-April 2008
Lamb	110.1	113.8	114.1	44.7

Source: Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board

Sale of Red Meat

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what percentage of total meat sales has red meat sales represented in each of the last three years, and what steps are being taken to increase the sale of red meat.

(AQW 8957/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The most up to date information which DARD has available on meat sales relates to 2005. I can therefore provide the figures for 2005 and the two previous years. The value of red meat sold in the North as a percentage of the total value of all meat sold here in 2003, 2004 and 2005 was 58.5%, 57.3% and 58.7% respectively.

With regard to your point about increasing red meat sales, you should note that EU State Aid Rules place severe constraints on the use of Government funds for promotional activities, therefore DARD cannot provide direct funding for marketing or advertising of red meat in the North of Ireland.

The Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) is responsible for the promotion of red meat in the domestic and export markets. Promotional activities aimed at the domestic market include; a press and television campaign highlighting the importance of red meat as part of a balanced diet; provision of advertising posters for butchers’ shops and promoting Farm Quality Assured beef.

For the export market, the LMC is heavily involved in major international red meat trade shows, such as ANUGA in Germany and SIAL in France.

I understand also that Invest NI has developed a focused export trade model to target specific export markets and facilitate trade visits by red meat processing companies. Invest NI work closely with the LMC in delivering this initiative and have arranged trade missions to Italy, Sweden, Norway and Spain.

Loughs Agency Employees

Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what action her Department is taking to bring about a resolution to the current industrial action which has been undertaken by Loughs Agency field staff.

(AQW 8984/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The Loughs Agency has advised that it has provided two proposals to Field Staff to address issues related to the current industrial action and met union officials on Tuesday 8^th July 2008 to discuss these.

At that meeting it was agreed that the Agency would write to each of the field staff detailing these proposals and their impact on each individual to enable full consideration to be given to them.

The Agency and the representatives of the field staff have agreed to meet again when the Trade Unions have consulted further with their members.

Loughs Agency Employees

Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if Loughs Agency field staff are entitled to pay and conditions similar to those of the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

(AQW 8987/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The staff of the Agency are not NI Civil Servants and the Conditions of employment are different from those of the NI Civil Service.

At a meeting of the North South Ministerial Council, Foyle Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission Sector Meeting on 5^th July 2000 it was confirmed that the pay of the staff of the Loughs Agency would continue to be linked to the appropriate pay scales in the NI Civil Service.

The July 2000 decision also confirmed the maintenance of the then conditions of employment, but agreed that these could be reviewed on completion of a staff review. The review of staffing was undertaken and implementation was completed in early 2007. At this point a review of the conditions of service of the Loughs Agency was implemented.

Loughs Agency Employees

Mr McElduff asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development if she will include fisheries officers in the Loughs Agency on the list of employees who are entitled to an all hours worked allowance.

(AQW 8988/08)

Ms M Gildernew: The proposals which the Loughs Agency has made to recognise the unsocial hours worked by staff will apply to all of their field staff.

Culture, Arts and Leisure

Paramilitary Murals

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what finance the Arts Council has made available to assist in the removal of paramilitary murals in estates in 2008.

(AQW 8437/08)

The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr G Campbell): On 10 July 2006 the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure launched the Re-imaging Communities Programme. The objective of the initiative was to help people feel part of and pride in the communities in which they live by enhancing the physical and natural environment and removing displays of sectarian aggression and intimidation from the public realm.

The Arts Council has allocated £750k from its Lottery budget to the Re-imaging Communities programme in the 2008/09 financial year. The funds are not simply for the removal of paramilitary murals, but include the replacement of these with artworks which express community pride and aspirations.

Paramilitary Murals

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much money the Arts Council set aside for the removal of paramilitary murals in the last 3 years.

(AQW 8438/08)

Mr G Campbell: The value of the Re-Imaging Communities programme is £3.3m over 3 years, 2006 to 2009. It includes a Lottery allocation of £750k from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

The Arts Council allocation will be awarded in full in July 2008.

The funds are not simply for the removal of paramilitary murals, but include the replacement of these with artworks which express community pride and aspirations.

Promoting Interest in Genealogy

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what action he is taking to promote interest in genealogy, especially for people from the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

(AQW 8439/08)

Mr G Campbell: A major project the Electronic Catalogue for Northern Ireland [eCATNI], to make the detailed catalogues of the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland (PRONI) available and searchable on-line will be available by the end of this year; this will open up PRONI’s archives to a world-wide audience and particularly for genealogical research.

In addition, PRONI has re-designed its website which now includes specific pages on genealogy to guide the overseas visitor to the archives available in PRONI for genealogical research as well as lots of helpful advice to potential customers wanting to use the archives in PRONI.

In addition, PRONI has re-designed its website (launched in January 2008) which now includes specific pages on genealogy to guide the overseas visitor to the archives available in PRONI for genealogical research. It also has lots of helpful advice to potential customers wanting to use the archives in PRONI as well as details of our enquiry service which makes PRONI more accessible to overseas enquirers.

PRONI’s Public Service Agreement targets include the production of databases to a wide range of archives that will assist overseas customers to access the wealth of archival resources held in PRONI.

A number of overseas engagements in recent times have provided unique opportunities to promote interest in genealogy including the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington DC last year.

Bookstart Scheme

Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure the percentage uptake of the Bookstart Scheme to date; what plans his Department has to improve the uptake of the scheme; and how the scheme can play a role in raising literacy standards.

(AQW 8557/08)

Mr G Campbell: My Department provided additional funding of £312k in March 2008 for the marketing, support and distribution of Bookstart packs. The Education and Library Boards purchased enough Baby packs and Bookstart Treasure Chests to enable 100% coverage across Northern Ireland in 2008/09 for both schemes. I understand that Bookstart Plus is delivered in partnership with Surestart, in selected areas, with Surestart funding.

I understand that DE is currently reviewing its literacy and numeracy strategies which will include the promotion of reading materials for pre-school children. DCAL can make a positive contribution to improving pre-school children’s literacy through its network of public libraries and will continue to support the Department of Education, as lead Department, in progressing this aim.

Research evidence shows children who have been introduced to books from an early age attain higher literacy standards by the time they reach school age. The Bookstart scheme promotes early language development and a love of books by encouraging parents to share books with their children.

Northern Ireland Events Company

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to the answer to AQW 2449/08, when his department was made aware of discrepancies in PAYE, National Insurance, and VAT payments at the Northern Ireland Events Company; and to outline what action officials took as a result.

(AQW 8619/08)

Mr G Campbell: The draft independent review report of the circumstances involved in the deficit at the Northern Ireland Events Company contains a number of matters of some public concern. Although, there is no specific reference to discrepancies in PAYE, National Insurance and VAT payments within the Company, reference is made to a then ongoing VAT inspection and the requirement by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs to clarify certain information. The Department has only subsequently been made aware of possible VAT issues within the Company.

Northern Ireland Events Company

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to the answer to AQW 2452/08, what the extent of the Northern Ireland Events Company overspend was at the end of the 2005-06 financial year; and to outline what action was taken by departmental officials as a result of that overspend.

(AQW 8620/08)

Mr G Campbell: In November 2006, the Department received Northern Ireland Events Company accounts for 2005-2006 showing net current liabilities at 30 March 2006 of £88,763. This figure was arrived at by deducting the amount owed to creditors (£631,302) from current assets (stated as £542,211). Departmental officials examined the accounts and no action was deemed to be necessary.

KPMG were commissioned by the Department to carry out a comprehensive review of all the circumstances surrounding the deficit accumulated by the Company. This review has identified a different deficit figure for that period. As these are matters of a sensitive legal and financial nature, I am unable to comment further in order to avoid prejudicing further investigations.

Northern Ireland Events Company

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to the answer to AQW 2410/08, to provide full details of the work undertaken by accountants Finnegan and Gibson during their visit to the offices of the Northern Ireland Events Company for a period of three days, and then for a further period of five days, during the 2006-07 financial year.

(AQW 8621/08)

Mr G Campbell: I have been informed by the Northern Ireland Events Company that its accountants, Finegan Gibson, visited its premises during 2006-2007 to carry out fieldwork on the audit of the Company’s accounts for year ending 31 March 2007.

KPMG were commissioned by the Department to carry out a comprehensive review of all the circumstances surrounding the deficit accumulated by the Company. This report contains matters of a sensitive legal and financial nature. I am unable to comment further on this matter in order to avoid prejudicing further investigations.

Appointment of the Chairman for Sport NI

Lord Browne asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure when he intends to announce the appointment of the Chairman for Sport NI.

(AQW 8684/08)

Mr G Campbell: The appointment process for the position of Chair of Sport Northern Ireland is ongoing and I would hope to make an announcement in the near future.

Windsor Park

Lord Browne asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if future Northern Ireland soccer matches are to be played at a venue other than Windsor Park; what are the consequences for the agreement between the Irish Football Association and Linfield Football Club; and who would be responsible for any financial compensation to Linfield Football Club.

(AQW 8685/08)

Mr G Campbell: The Irish Football Association (IFA) is responsible for determining the venue at which Northern Ireland home international soccer matches are to be played. The consequences for the agreement between the IFA and Linfield FC over the staging of such matches at a venue other than Windsor Park are for the IFA and Linfield to decide in the first instance. The question of financial compensation to Linfield FC, if due, would be a matter for the IFA in the first instance.

2012 Olympics

Lord Browne asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure if any of the existing Irish League soccer grounds meet the criteria to host the 2012 Olympics soccer games.

(AQW 8686/08)

Mr G Campbell: No existing Irish League soccer grounds meet the criteria set by the International Olympic Committee to host soccer games at the 2012 Olympics.

2012 Olympics

Lord Browne asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what assessment he has made of the financial viability of bringing an Irish League Club ground up to the standard to meet the criteria for hosting soccer games in the 2012 Olympics.

(AQW 8687/08)

Mr G Campbell: The only stadium which is presently under consideration for hosting soccer games in the 2012 Olympics is the proposed multi-sports stadium. No assessment has therefore been made of the financial viability of bringing other grounds up to the standard required for the 2012 Olympics.

Local Postal Services

Mr Dallat asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what consideration has been given and what progress has been made by his Department to utilise the Post Office as a source, agency or outlet for the delivery of its services as outlined in the May 2008 report of the Assembly's Ad Hoc Committee, 'Report of the Committee’s Consideration of, and Proposals for, Partnership that could Enhance the Economic Case for Viable Local Postal Services'.

(AQW 8691/08)

Mr G Campbell: The Ad Hoc Committee on Local Postal Services’ Report made a number of recommendations to the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (DBERR) concerning the future of Postal Services and the Post Office network. Junior Minister Donaldson and Junior Minister Kelly wrote to Executive Ministers on 21 April asking them to consider whether any further public services could be delivered through post offices.

DCAL indicated that it currently sells angling permits through a distribution network including fishing tackle shops, hotels and tourist information outlets. While there are no obstacles to Post Offices selling DCAL permits or FCB and Loughs Agency angling licences, to replace the current distribution network would require careful consideration and planning. It may be more appropriate to strategically identify where there are geographical gaps in the current distribution network and consider distributing permits and licenses through Post Offices in those areas. The planned transfer of the FCB functions to the Department (early 2009) will provide an opportunity to review the distribution systems with regards to both licenses and permits.

Ulster Scots Academy

Mr Bresland asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what financial assistance has been provided to the Ulster Scots Academy in each of the last three financial years.

(AQW 8734/08)

Mr G Campbell: Funding granted to the Ulster Scots Academy is as listed below:

2005/06: £134,413

2006/07: £392,412

2007/08: £405,189

Departmental Funding to Sports Clubs

Mr Bresland asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what financial assistance has been provided to Cricket, the Gaelic Athletic Association, Hockey and Football in each of the last three financial years, broken down by (i) district council area; and (ii) club.

(AQW 8735/08)

Mr G Campbell: Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. The tables below detail the amount of exchequer and lottery funding awarded to Cricket, the Gaelic Athletic Association, Hockey and Football in each of the last three financial years broken down by district council area and club.

2005/2006

CLUB	AWARD AMOUNT (£)	DISTRICT / COUNCIL	SPORT	FUNDING PROGRAMMES
St John's GAC	108,183	Down	Gaelic Sports	Lottery\Capital\Club Sport
Steelstown GAC	225,000	Derry	Gaelic Sports	Lottery\Capital\Building Sport
Cliftonville FC	800,000	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Stadia Safety Programme

2006 / 2007

CLUB	AWARD AMOUNT (£)	DISTRICT / COUNCIL	SPORT	FUNDING PROGRAMMES
Ballymena United FC	168,326	Ballymena	Association Football	Facilities\Stadia Safety Programme
Ards FC	458	Ards	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Cliftonville FC	4,023	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Armagh City FC	3,365	Armagh	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Glentoran FC	11,706	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Newry City FC	2,179	Newry & Mourne	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Dungannon Swifts FC	2,402	Dungannon	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Portadown FC	4,995	Armagh	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Linfield FC	11,628	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Enniskillen Gaels GAA	407,572	Fermanagh	Gaelic Sports	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Donegal Celtic FC	3,150	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Crusaders FC	2,134	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme

2007 / 2008

CLUB	AWARD AMOUNT (£)	DISTRICT / COUNCIL	SPORT	FUNDING PROGRAMMES
Kickhams Creggan GAC	240,000	Antrim	Gaelic Sports	Lottery\Capital\Building Sport
Lisnaskea Emmetts GAC	220,000	Fermanagh	Gaelic Sports	Lottery\Capital\Building Sport
Bready Cricket Club	1,817,451	Strabane	Cricket	Lottery\Capital\Building Sport
St Mary's GAC	235,000	Derry	Gaelic Sports	Lottery\Capital\Building Sport
Portadown FC	800,900	Craigavon	Association Football	Facilities\Stadia Safety Programme
Linfield FC	4,425	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Cliftonville FC	900	>Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Donegal Celtic FC	938	Belfast	Association Football	Facilities\Safety Management Programme
Na Magha Hurling Club	238,274	Derry	Gaelic Sports	Lottery\Capital\Building Sport
Newry Olympic Hockey Club	200,000	Newry & Mourne	Hockey	Exchequer\Capital\Building Sport
St Colmcille's GAC	245,000	Armagh	Gaelic Sports	Exchequer\Capital\Building Sport
Waringstown Cricket Club	40,000	Craigavon	Cricket	Exchequer\Capital\Building Sport
St Colm's GAC	100,000	Derry	Gaelic Sports	Exchequer\Capital\Building Sport
O'Brien's GAC	245,000	Derry	Gaelic Sports	Exchequer\Capital\Building Sport

Northern Ireland Athletes

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what discussions he has held, or intends to hold, with the Great Britain Olympics Organisation to ensure that athletes from Northern Ireland can compete with the British team at the Olympic Games.

(AQW 8750/08)

Mr G Campbell: Responsibility for ensuring Northern Ireland athletes can compete for the Great Britain team rests, in the first instance, with the relevant sports governing bodies and the British Olympic Association (BOA). I would support any opportunities provided by the relevant sports governing bodies and the BOA to assist Northern Ireland athletes in qualifying and competing for the Great Britain Team at the Olympic Games.

Sports Events in Northern Ireland

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what action his Department has taken to attract sporting events to Northern Ireland, given the impact that this would have on tourism.

(AQW 8776/08)

Mr G Campbell: The promotion of sporting events is primarily the responsibility of the governing bodies of sport. However, it is consistent with the commitment of Government, through the draft Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation 2008-2018 produced by the Department and Sport Northern Ireland, to establish Northern Ireland as a world class venue for sporting events. The contribution to tourism of sport, including sporting events, emerged as an important issue in the development of the draft Strategy.

The Department’s Events Unit operates two grant funding programmes for events which: impact positively on the image of Northern Ireland, in particular its external image, create opportunity for social cohesion and bring direct and indirect benefits to Northern Ireland.

2008 Belfast Gay Pride Parade

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how much funding his Department is allocating to the 2008 Belfast Gay Pride Parade.

(AQW 8861/08)

Mr G Campbell: My Department has not allocated any funding to the 2008 Belfast Pride Parade.

From 1 April 2008 the delivery of the Community Festivals Fund was devolved to Local Authorities and festival organisers may apply to their local council for support.

The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation 2007-2017

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for his assessment of the desire for mixed leisure and sporting activities, based upon the Northern Ireland Life and Times Surveys and other reports.

(AQW 8866/08)

Mr G Campbell: The findings of the Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey in respect of the desire for mixed leisure and sporting activities is consistent with the proposals for the future development of sport and physical recreation in Northern Ireland set out within the recently published draft of "The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, 2007-2017". This draft Strategy was developed by the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in partnership with Sport Northern Ireland. It contains a number of proposals that are designed to promote and encourage community cohesion and community integration in sport and physical recreation in Northern Ireland.

Halloween Bonfires

Mr Moutray asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many complaints his Department has received in relation to the negative contribution to cultural expression of Halloween bonfires, in each of the last five years.

(AQW 8906/08)

Mr G Campbell: The Department has received no complaints in relation to the negative contribution to cultural expression of Halloween bonfires in each of the last five years.

Ulster Grand Prix

Mr Craig asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for his assessment of the success of the Ulster Grand Prix and the value of the funding provided from his Department.

(AQW 8945/08)

Mr G Campbell: I recognise that the Ulster Grand Prix annual road race is one of the most important road races in the Northern Ireland motor sports’ road race calendar. Sport Northern Ireland (SNI) is responsible for the development of sport in Northern Ireland including the distribution of funding. SNI has provided the Ulster Grand Prix, via the 2 & 4 Wheel Motor Sport Steering Group Ltd, with an Exchequer award of £10,186. This will assist the organisers of the race implement essential safety improvements for the 2008 event.

The Ulster Grand Prix submitted an application to the Major Events Fund requesting £70,000. The application was assessed by DCAL Events Unit. The event scored 43.7% exceeding the required 40% threshold to permit funding. The Ulster Grand Prix submitted a detailed development plan prepared in partnership with Lisburn City Council. The internal assessment of the potential economic benefit of the event was estimated at £5.13 to every £1 of public sector investment.

The Grant Approval Panel, comprising two senior Departmental officials and an independent member from the NI Tourist Board met on the 18^th June and agreed that an offer of £40,000 on a revenue basis to support specific costs related to the preparation of the venue and the marketing of the event.

Architecture and the Built Environment Ministerial Advisory Group

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the remit of the Architecture and the Built Environment Ministerial Advisory Group in terms of planning applications; and if it is within the remit of the advisory group to offer advice to Planning Service on planning applications.

(AQW 8989/08)

Mr G Campbell: The policy on ‘Architecture and the Built Environment for Northern Ireland’ (A+BE policy) published in June 2006 made provision for the establishment of a Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) to advise the Minister of Culture, Arts and leisure on the implementation and development of the A+BE policy. In August 2007 the Minister announced the appointment of the chair and eight members of MAG. The A+BE policy provides MAG with the remit to offer advice to Planning Service on planning applications. It is also written into the Terms of Appointment that MAG shall review design aspects of significant projects including projects referred by Planning Service for comment.

Architecture and the Built Environment Ministerial Advisory Group

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many members of the Architecture and the Built Environment Ministerial Advisory Group were invited to the meeting of the group on 18 April 2008; how members were notified of the meeting; and why less than half of the members of the group were present at the meeting.

(AQW 8990/08)

Mr G Campbell: The purpose of the meeting on 18 April 2008 was to carry out design reviews of two separate applications for planning approval. The first, a tall building proposal was reported to MAG members in December 2007. In February 2008 MAG members agreed to set up a subgroup to consider that scheme and to make a request to view the plans for a second scheme involving another tall building and to consider it alongside the first. The intention was that the subgroup should form the panel that would review the design of both schemes. Initially the proposed panel consisted of five, the chair and four members of MAG. The date was agreed and an open invitation issued to the three remaining MAG members but none accepted (At that time there was one vacancy in the MAG membership). Subsequently, one member of the proposed panel declared a conflict of interest in relation to one scheme which resulted in that member not attending either of the two reviews. As a result the chair and three members of MAG attended the meeting on 18 April 2008.

Architecture and the Built Environment Ministerial Advisory Group

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure under what guidelines or constitution the Architecture and the Built Environment Ministerial Advisory Group operates.

(AQW 8991/08)

Mr G Campbell: The MAG operates within a mandate which is detailed in the Terms of Appointment (TOA). The TOA specifies the terms of appointment for the chair and members of MAG. The TOA incorporates procedures and operational guidelines as well as advice on public service standards of conduct and behaviour. A copy of the TOA is attached for the Member’s convenience.

APPENDIX A

ARCHITECTURE AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT FOR NORTHERN IRELAND MINISTERIAL ADVISORY GROUP

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Mandate The Architecture and the Built Environment - Ministerial Advisory Group for (A+BE MAG) shall:

Advise the Ministerial Design Champion and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure (DCAL) on the implementation and development of the policy on Architecture and the Built Environment for Northern Ireland (A+BENI) published in June 2006. DCAL is the sponsor Department;
Champion good design in all sectors of the built environment and challenge accepted guidance, policy and standards relevant to design, which are considered to fall short of expectations;
Collaborate with key stakeholders in the development of knowledge and skills concerning design of the built environment. Facilitate good design by disseminating research evidence, information and advice to those in the public and private sectors who have a role in the procurement and delivery of construction projects;
Help give effect to A+BENI policy objectives in the public interest whilst working within the policy and statutory framework and acting with professional integrity;
Review design aspects of significant projects including projects referred by the Planning Service for comment; and
Review the implementation of A+ BENI policy objectives. Through consultation with stakeholders assess its impact on design quality. Produce an annual report which incorporates evidence of progress and other relevant findings.

2.0 Aspirations The A+BE MAG shall seek to:

Establish a reputation as a respected source of advice on architecture and built environment issues pertinent to Northern Ireland;
Win recognition as a champion for good design whilst encouraging developers and policy makers to raise design standards in an ongoing way;

Membership and Appointments

The A+BE MAG shall consist of a Chair and up to 8 members appointed by the Minister for DCAL in accordance with the guidelines set out in the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland Code of Practice.

Appointments shall be for a term of 3 years with an option - dependent on satisfactory performance - for a further term of no greater than 3 years which shall be specified at the time of reappointment.
The post requires an average input of up to 2 days per month depending on business needs.
Appointments to fill interim vacancies shall be for the unexpired portion of the vacant post.
The Chair shall receive an annual fee of £6,000 from the Department.
The posts of member of the A+BE MAG are unremunerated.
Departmental procedures for appraising the performance of appointees apply.
Reasonable travelling and subsistence expenses incurred through carrying out official duties and certain dependant carer expenses determined in accordance with the Northern Ireland Civil Service Handbook shall be reimbursed by the Department.

Procedures and Operational Guidelines

The A+BE MAG shall meet quarterly. In the absence of the Chair the members of the Group shall agree for one of the members to deputise as Chair as a temporary measure. If the Chair or a member does not attend 2 consecutive meetings, his/her appointment shall be reviewed by the Department.

Design Review panels shall be chaired by either Chair or member of the A+BE MAG. The proceedings and recommendations shall be recorded.

Procedures are built into the appointments process to identify, discuss and record any real or perceived conflict of interest. Thereafter each member must declare any personal or business interests including any private, voluntary, charitable or political interest which might be material and relevant to the work of the A+BE MAG and which may, or may be perceived to, influence their judgement in performing their functions. Any conflict of interest whether real or perceived must be dealt with appropriately. These interests shall be recorded in a register of interests maintained and kept up-to-date by the A&BE MAG. Such procedures apply routinely to Design Review sessions and likewise any conflict of interest real or perceived shall be dealt with appropriately and documented.
Task groups chaired by members of the A+BE MAG shall provide advice in specific areas for example public housing, sustainable development or urban regeneration. Individuals with specialist expertise and experience drawn from a Call-off List shall support and contribute to the work of the A+BE MAG.
All formal meetings including sub-committee meetings are required to have an agenda and shall be recorded to include where appropriate review of action items, those responsible and the date action is completed. Design Review sessions shall be recorded to include all relevant issues, opinion and recommendations.
The Chair shall report regularly or on request to the Department.
The Department’s Press office will be available to assist the

A+BE MAG in all requests for press statements and media interviews.

Where authorised by the Department, costs associated with the activities of A+BE MAG will be paid by the Department.

Public Service Standards of Conduct and Behaviour

The Chair and members must be seen to act in the public interest at all times. Their conduct and behaviour must be beyond reproach. The Chair and members must be committed to the principles defined in the first report of the Committee on Standards in Public Life published in 1995.

Compliance with these principles requires holders of public office to:

Selflessness Take decisions solely in terms of the public interest. They should not do so in order to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family or their friends;
Integrity Not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals or organisations that might influence them in the performance of their official duties;
Objectivity In carrying out public business, including making public appointments, awarding contracts, or recommending individuals for rewards and benefits, make choices on merit;
Accountability Submit themselves to whatever scrutiny is appropriate to their post because they are accountable to the public for their decisions and actions;
Openness Be as open as possible in the decisions they make and actions they take. They should give reasons for their decisions and restrict information only when the wider public interest clearly demands;
Honesty Because they have a duty to declare any private interests relating to their public duties, take steps to resolve any conflicts arising in a way that protects the public interest; and
Leadership Promote and support these principles by leadership and example.

The requirement for probity applies equally to the Chair and Members of the A+BE MAG as well as those who are drawn from the Call-off List when participating in Design Review panels or contributing to the work of task groups.

Education

Ballywalter Primary School

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education to give a timescale within which the replacement of Ballywalter Primary School will commence.

(AQW 6065/08)

The Minister of Education (Ms C Ruane): Following a request from the South Eastern Education and Library Board, a site visit was undertaken by the Department’s technical advisors in 2007 and Ballywalter Primary was identified as having significant accommodation deficiencies. Earlier this month, the Department agreed the appraisal submitted by the South Eastern Education and Library Board for a new school on an alternative site.

De bharr nach bhfuil aon dáta leagtha síos don chéad fhógra eile i dtaobh cistiú caipitil, níl aon amscála ann ag an phointe seo maidir le leanúint ar aghaidh leis an scéim seo.

As there is currently no date set for the next capital funding announcement, there is no timescale at this stage for proceeding with this scheme.

Use of School Facilities by the Local Community

Mr Weir asked the Minister of Education to detail, for each parliamentary constituency, (i) the number of schools that make their facilities available for (a) sporting clubs; and (b) community organisations, out of school hours; and (ii) the proportion of the total number of schools that this represents.

(AQW 6591/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Department does not collect information on the use of school premises outside of school hours.

Under Article 140 of the 1989 Education Order schools are encouraged to make premises available (when not required by or in connection with the school) for use by members of the community.

Through the Department’s Extended School programme almost 400 of our most socially disadvantaged schools have been identified for funding.

Our policy seeks to establish each extended school as the hub of its local community engaging positively and actively with neighbouring schools, statutory, voluntary and community sector organisations in an effort to meet the needs of the pupils in the school. As part of the process of preparing their Action Plans schools were asked to consult with local community and statutory organisations to establish if there are particular community needs which could be met by the school.

Ar ndóigh, ní féidir linn bheith ag súil le scoileanna bheith ábalta freagra dearfach a thabhairt ar gach iarratas ach tá naisc níos deise idir an scoil agus a pobal mar phríomheilimint den pholasaí, eilimint a bhfuilimid ag iarraidh forbairt a dhéanamh uirthi.

Of course we cannot expect schools to be able to respond positively to all requests but closer links between the school and its community is a key element of the policy and one which we are seeking to develop.

Funding for Irish Language

Ms S Ramsey asked the Minister of Education to detail the funding available to promote Irish language schools and Irish language education, broken down by parliamentary constituency.

(AQW 6800/08)

Ms C Ruane: The information is not readily available by Parliamentary constituency and an exercise to obtain it would result in disproportionate costs.

Under Article 89 of the Education Order 1998 the Department of Education funds the Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta to encourage the development of Irish medium education in the north of Ireland. The Comhairle’s budget for 2008/09 is £581,000.

Sa bhliain airgeadais 2007-2008, ba é £7.9m an maoiniú a leithdháileadh ar Ghaelscoileanna neamhspleácha faoin Fhoirmle Chomh-mhaoinithe. Leithdháileadh Caipiteal £487,000 chomh maith.

In the 2007- 2008 financial year, funding allocated to free standing Irish medium schools under the Common Funding Formula was £7.9m. Capital amounting to £487,000 was also allocated.

Criterion Changes to Extended Schools Budget Allocations

Mr S Wilson asked the Minister of Education what consultation was carried out on changes to the criterion for the extended schools budget allocations.

(AQW 7113/08)

Ms C Ruane: The main difference to the criteria has been the move to more accurate, post-code based data for special and primary schools which draw over half their pupils from Neighbourhood Renewal Areas (NRA). It was always our intention to use that more accurate data once it became available. We have, additionally and necessarily, targeted the available resources directly at schools serving the most socially disadvantaged communities. This is in line with the aim of the Extended Schools programme.

B’ábhar pléite le Painéal Idirbhoird na Scoileanna Forleathnaithe agus le CSCC na critéir cháilitheachta agus na leithdháiltí buiséid faoi seach.

The eligibility criteria and respective budget allocations were the subject of discussions with the Inter-Board Extended Schools Panel and CCMS.

Extended Schools Programme

Mr Campbell asked the Minister of Education when the Extended Schools Programme began; and how long it was envisaged to last.

(AQW 7187/08)

Ms C Ruane: Seoladh na Scoileanna Sínte i Meitheamh 2006 mar pháirt den Phacáiste Maoinithe i gcomhair Páistí agus Daoine Óga; cuireadh £10m ar fáil i ngach ceann de na blianta airgeadais, 2006/07 agus 2007/08.

The Extended Schools was launched in June 2006 as part of the Children and Young People Funding Package with £10m made available in each of the 2006/07 and 2007/08 financial years.

It was envisaged that the programme would be a key vehicle for contributing to the strands across the Ten Year Strategy for Children and Young People and accordingly our understanding was that when funding was allocated to DE during direct rule that it was to be mainstreamed i.e. a baseline allocation and not a short term programme. However contrary to that understanding the funding for the programme was removed from the DE baseline from 2008-09 onwards and as a consequence I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a substantial reduction from £10m to £5.8m.

I have raised the difficulties and registered most strongly my concerns, as far back as 20 September 2007 in a meeting with the Finance Minister and through correspondence on 8 separate occasions since, that the shortfall in funding presents. I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore this important programme.

Use of School Premises for the Local Community

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education what steps are being taken to make school premises available for use as community facilities outside of school hours.

(AQW 7225/08)

Ms C Ruane: Under Article 140 of the 1989 Education Order schools are encouraged to make premises available (when not required by or in connection with the school) for use by members of the community.

Through the Department’s Extended School programme almost 400 of our most socially disadvantaged schools have been identified for funding.

Ar ndóigh ní thig linn a bheith ag súil go mbeidh scoileanna in ann freagairt go dearfach do gach iarratas ach is príomhghné den bheartas naisc níos dlúithe idir an scoil agus a pobal agus is gné í atáimid ag iarraidh a fhorbairt.

Playboard

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education to detail the outcome of discussions with Playboard for frontline children's services.

(AQW 7304/08)

Ms C Ruane: Playboard were advised by my officials that the Department of Education had no responsibility for these projects which are currently funded by DHSSPS. OFMDFM has organised further meetings with DE and DHSSPS to discuss the future funding of these services. DE officials are due to meet with OFMDFM on 5 August 2008.

Integrated Development Funding

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education what Integrated Development Funding was received by each primary school in (i) North Belfast; and (ii) West Belfast, in each of the last 3 years.

(AQW 7331/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

Details are also provided for the West Belfast Greater Shankill Taskforce Initiative which was also funded from IDF resources.

School Name	Renewing Communities Funding 2006/07 (£)	Renewing Communities Funding 2007/08 (£)

Ballygolan PS	6,445	9,137
Ballysillan PS	24,740	29,306
Carr's Glen PS	27,600	29,125
Cavehill PS	5,000	5,000
Cliftonville PS	25,855	21,948
Currie PS	27,392	39,053
Edenbrooke PS	48,590	52,869
Glenwood PS	59,870	68,080
Grove PS	17,780	17,953
Ligoniel PS	16,885	22,235
Lowwood PS	22,235	26,234
Seaview PS	25,060	31,900
Wheatfield PS	29,235	45,323
Hazelwood Integrated PS	1,200	0
Blackmountain PS	20,480	22,347
Forth River PS	21,125	25,528
Harmony PS	29,235	37,285
Malvern PS	29,030	32,107
Springfield PS	15,500	17,500
Springhill PS	25,755	29,670
Suffolk PS	800	2,400
Totals	479,812	565,001

Colin IDF project

School Name	2007/08 (£)
St Kieran’s PS	8,620
Good Shepherd PS	8,620
St Luke’s PS	8,620
Scoil na Fuiseoige	8,620
St Mark’s PS	8,620
Our Lady Queen of Peace PS	8,620
Christ the Redeemer PS	8,620
Totals	60,340

Departmental Grants

Mr Easton asked the Minister of Education for the details of all grants available through her Department.

(AQW 7360/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá roinnt cineálacha éagsúla deontais a leithdháiltear trí mo Roinn agus tá siad seo liostaithe thíos.

There are a number of different types of grants allocated through my Department and these are listed below.

Grant-in-aid to provide general support to each of the Department’s Arms Length Bodies

The Belfast Education and Library Board

The North-Eastern Education and Library Board

The South-Eastern Education and Library Board

The Southern Education and Library Board

The Western Education and Library Board

The Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment

The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools

The Staff Commission

Middletown Centre for Autism Limited

Middletown Centre for Autism (Holdings) Limited

Boards of Governors of Grant Maintained Integrated Schools

Boards of Governors of Voluntary Grammar Schools

Current grant provided for specific purposes

Comhairle na Gaelscolaiochta

NI Council for Integrated Education

Prince’s Trust XL Programme

KidsStop after Schools Club

Millennium Volunteers

Bytes Project

Barnardo’s

Save The Children

Include Youth

NSPCC/Childline

The Gaelic Athletic Association

The Irish Football Association

Music for Youth

The Queen’s University, Belfast

Amnesty International

The University of Ulster

Early Years, The Organisation for Children

NI Child Minding Association

Northern Health and Social Services Board

Southern Health and Social Services Board

Eastern Health and Social Services Board

Western Health and Social Services Board

Charter Work Experience

Foyle Schools and Employer Connections

Business Education Partnerships

Sentinus

Young Enterprise Northern Ireland

Capital Grants for approved Capital Works

Trustees of Voluntary Grammar Schools

Trustees of Grant Maintained Integrated Schools

Community Relations Core Funding Scheme

Belfast YMCA

Bytes Project - Community Relations

Childrens Project

Community Relations in Schools

Co-operation Ireland

Corrymeela

Creggan Education & Research Services

Forthspring Inter-Community Group

Harmony Community Trust

Kilcranny House

National Trust

Nerve Centre (The)

Childrens Enterprise

Childrens Holidays Scheme

NUS/USI (National Union of Students

Panarts

Public Achievement

REACT

St Patrick’s Centre

Spirit of Enniskillen Trust

Ulster Folk & Transport Museum

Verbal Arts Centre (NI) Ltd.

Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust

Youth Link

Voluntary Youth Projects – Capital Grants

St Columbanus College, Bangor

St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Club, Belfast

St Bronagh’s Youth Club, Rostrevor

Clonard Monastery Youth Centre

Patrician Youth Centre

St Joseph’s Youth Club

Ogras Club

St Mary’s Youth Centre

Corpus Christi Youth Centre

Boys’ Brigade Belfast Battalion

Corrymeela Community

Belfast & Lisburn Women’s Aid

Share Discovery ‘80’ Ltd

Downpatrick Group Scouting Ireland

Scout Council

WAVE Trauma Centre

Ederney Youth Club

Trillick & District YFC

Goalline Youth Centre

Belfast Circus School

Long Tower Youth & Community Centre

Pennyburn Youth Club

Scouting Ireland/Down & Connor Scouts

St Macartan’s Guide Unit

All Saints Youth Club

St John Bosco Youth Club

Seagoe Youth Group

Rosario Youth Club

St Mary’s Youth Club

YMCA -Lurgan

Challenge for Youth

Greenhill YMCA

St Oliver Plunkett Youth Club

1^st Warrenpoint Scouts Group

Lisburn YMCA

The Scout Association

Darkley Clubhouse/Crossfire Trust

St John’s Scouts

Ebrington Church Youth Council

St John Vianney Youth Centre

RNIB Northern Ireland

The 6^th Belfast Scout Group

Girlguiding Ulster

Belfast Activity Centre

Artibility (NI) Ltd

Youthcom

Langley Youth Club

Portstewart Guides

Donaghadee High School

Mr Cree asked the Minister of Education if she still intends to close Donaghadee High School, given the current provision for secondary school places in the North Down constituency.

(AQW 7634/08)

Ms C Ruane: Cuireadh deireadh leis an tréimhse chomhairliúcháin ar 30 Meitheamh; tréimhse comhairliúcháin a bhain leis an Togra Fhorbartha le dúnadh na scoile a cheadú. Agus an cinneadh á dhéanamh agam, cuirfidh mé na fachtóirí cuí uile san áireamh, lena n-áirítear leibhéal na bunscolaíochta a sholáthraítear sa cheantar.

The consultation period for the Development Proposal to allow for the closure of the school ended on 30 June. In making my decision I will take all relevant factors into account, including the level of post-primary provision in the area.

Siting of Schools Near Power Lines

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what steps she is taking to ensure that during the proposed future school building programme new schools will not be sited close to overhead power lines.

(AQW 7664/08)

Ms C Ruane: The department has not had any consultations with the British Government or other devolved administrations in relation to the siting of schools near overhead power lines.

Tá roinnt rudaí le meas a dhéanamh orthu nuair a bhítear ag cuartú suímh do scoil nua, ceann acu seo is ea a chóngaraí is atá línte cumhachta don suíomh. Má bhíonn aon líne cumhachta ann cóngarach do shuíomh atá molta fá choinne scoile úir lorgaíonn an fhoireann deartha atá freagrach as pleanáil na scoile comhairle ó Leictreachas Thuaisceart Éireann agus más gá déantar na línte cumhachta a chlaonadh nó a chur faoi thalamh.

There are a number of factors to be considered when identifying a site for a new school of which the proximity of power lines to the site is one. If there are any power lines near the site of a proposed new school, the design team responsible for the planning of the school seek advice from NIE and if required the power lines are either diverted or buried underground.

Employment of Retired Teachers

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education how many retired teachers have been employed in (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary schools, in the last 12 months.

(AQW 7695/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

Primary

Post-Primary

Both

Primary

Nursery

Grammar

Secondary

Peripatetic*

Special*

975

90

157

738

18

186

1065

895

204

* Peripatetic and Special Schools can be either primary or post-primary schools

Schools Near Overhead Power Lines

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what consultations her Department has had with the UK Government and other devolved administrations in relation to the siting of new schools near overhead power lines.

(AQW 7701/08)

Ms C Ruane: The department has not had any consultations with the British Government or other devolved administrations in relation to the siting of schools near overhead power lines.

Reading Recovery Programme

Dr McDonnell asked the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of the effectiveness of the Reading Recovery programme and its ability to take children, particularly boys, out of underachievement; and what plans she has to reinstate funding for this programme.

(AQW 7734/08)

Ms C Ruane: Dearbhaíonn measúnuithe a rinneadh ar Bhreith ar an Léitheoireacht anseo agus in áiteanna eile araon gur idirghabháil éifeachtach í Breith ar an Léitheoireacht ag páistí óga a bhfuil deacrachtaí léitheoireachta acu.

Evaluations of Reading Recovery both here and elsewhere confirm that Reading Recovery is an effective intervention for young children with reading difficulties.

The arrangements for the future funding and delivery of Reading Recovery are tied into the literacy and numeracy strategy which issued for consultation in June 2008. The strategy recognises the importance of identifying problems in literacy and numeracy at an early stage and taking steps to resolve these. We envisage Reading Recovery as one of a number of approaches which will be supported once the strategy is finalised. In the meantime, the Literacy Steering Group has been asked to consider the arrangements for Reading Recovery as part of the process of drawing up the Regional Action Plan for Literacy from September 2008 and which is expected to be submitted shortly.

Car Park at Derryboye Primary School

Mr Shannon asked the Minister of Education when the building work will start on the car park at Derryboye Primary School; and what date will the car park be completed.

(AQW 7736/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá sé beartaithe ag Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt tús a chur leis an obair ar charrchlós Bhunscoil Dhoire Bhuí san fhómhar agus táthar ag súil go gcríochnófar an obair faoi mhí an Mhárta 2009.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board is planning to start work on the Derryboye Primary School car park in the autumn and it is anticipated that work will be completed by March 2009.

Review of Community Relations Policy

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education what are the terms of reference of the working group set up to review the community relations policy.

(AQW 7808/08)

Ms C Ruane: Shocraigh mé go gcuirfí cóip de na Téarmaí Tagartha i Leabharlann an Tionóil.

I have arranged to have a copy of the Terms of Reference placed in the Assembly Library.

Extended Schools Programme

Mr Butler asked the Minister of Education to detail the reduction in the amount of Extended Schools funding for primary schools in the Colin area; which schools will have a reduction in their Extended Schools funding; and whether the 'carry forward' funding for these schools will be withdrawn from their budgets.

(AQW 7810/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.


DENI Ref	School name	Ward name	2006/07	2007/08	2008/09
4036134	ST MARK'S PS	TWINBROOK	£35,972	£35,294	£21,070
4036285	THE GOOD SHEPHERD PS	POLEGLASS	£32,028	£31,223	£18,508
4046600	SCOIL NA FUISEOIGE	TWINBROOK	£18,314	£17,883	£11,186
Totals			£86,314	£84,400	£50,764

In respect of Extended School ‘ carry forward’ funding, all schools with underspends from 2007/08 will have full access to this funding in 2008/09.

In light of the very positive indications given by the Finance Minister to the Assembly on June Monitoring about the importance of the Extended Schools programme to the Executive I am very hopeful that additional in year resources will be allocated for the programme which will allow the Department to widen the eligibility criteria and restore previous funding levels.

Permanent Teaching Posts

Mr Savage asked the Minister of Education how many teachers, qualified within the last 5 years, are still without a full-time permanent teaching post.

(AQW 7841/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Department does not employ teachers nor does it hold this information. However, the General Teaching Council has been registering initial teacher education graduates on an annual basis since April 2004. The Council also seeks information, annually, from all grant-aided schools on teachers employed on a permanent or significant temporary nature (i.e. excluding supply/substitute teachers). The Council has provided the following information:

	(1) 2003/04	(1) 2004/05	(1) 2005/06	(1) 2006/07	(1) 2007/08
NI Graduate Records	705	792	816	807	801
Currently Registered	635	672	671	708	683
Currently Employed (see note 2)	535	490	413	337	187

Notes:

1. The years stated refer to the GTC Registration Year, i.e. 1 April to

31 March.

2. "Currently Employed" includes teachers who are employed on a permanent or significant temporary basis (i.e. excludes substitute/supply teachers).

Tá iarrtha agam ar mo Roinn tuilleadh oibre a dhéanamh ar phatrúin fostaíochta mhac léinn ag baint céime amach as oideachas tosaigh múinteoireachta.

I have asked my Department to undertake further work on the employment patterns of students graduating from initial teacher education.

New Senior High School in Lurgan

Mr Moutray asked the Minister of Education what plans she has to build a new senior high school in Lurgan.

(AQW 7905/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá scéim chaipitil fhaofa ann do Choláiste an Lorgain. Bhí gá le Breithmheas Eacnamaíochta de bharr gur moladh athruithe ar na bunphleananna; chuir Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Deiscirt an cháipéis sin faoi bhráid na Roinne ní ba luaithe i mbliana agus tá comhairleoirí gairmiúla na Roinne á bhreithniú faoi láthair.

There is an approved capital scheme for Lurgan College. A revised Economic Appraisal was necessary due to proposed changes to the original plans, and this was submitted by the Southern Education and Library Board earlier this year and is currently with the Department’s professional advisers for consideration.

Special Educational Needs

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education what level of funding is provided to pupils of primary schools where the pupil has (i) no statement of educational need; and (ii) a statement of special educational need.

(AQW 8040/08)

Ms C Ruane: The information requested is not available.

Average funding in primary schools under the delegated formula funding arrangements in 2008/09 was £2,646 per pupil. Primary schools budgets may include funding for nursery class pupils as well as funding for pupils with statements of educational need within mainstream class and special unit settings.

Eisíonn Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne ráiteas de Riachtanais Speisialta Oideachais chun soláthar speisialta oideachais a chur ar fáil bhunaithe ar mheastachán riachtanais. Déantar an soláthar seo a chomhoiriúnú le riachtanais aonaracha an dalta, ar féidir leo a bheith an-éagsúil maidir leis an chineál soláthair atá de dhíth agus costas an tsoláthair sin, agus níl aon mheánchostas nó costas tipiciúil ann. Níl costais iomlána daltaí ar ráiteas, i suímh speisialta agus i bpríomhshuímh araon, ar fáil ar leithligh óna chéile don bhunoideachas agus don iarbhunoideachas.

A statement of Special Educational Needs is issued by an Education and Library Board to make special educational provision based on an assessment of need. This provision is matched to the individual needs of a pupil, which can vary widely in the nature of provision required and the cost of that provision, and there is no average or typical cost. The overall costs for statemented pupils, both in special and mainstream settings, are not available separately for primary and post-primary.

Capital Development Proposals

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) new build capital development proposals; and (ii) capital development proposals, currently with her Department, for which valid economic appraisals have been accepted; the length of time they have been with her Department; and how many site meetings were granted by her officials as part of the process towards the submission of valid economic appraisals, in relation to all capital development proposals in each of the last 5 years.

(AQW 8045/08)

Ms C Ruane: All capital schemes which have been announced for funding have agreed economic appraisals. In all cases they were preceded by a site visit to the school and in the case of a potential amalgamation on a new site or relocation to a new site, a visit to the proposed new site.

Tá eolas faighte ag an Roinn ar 80 scéim chaipitil atá beartaithe faoi láthair; fuair an Roinn an t-eolas sin ón údarás oideachais chuí. Tá breithmheas eacnamaíochta ag ceithre scéim is fiche faoi láthair; tá 5 cinn acu ceadaithe ag an Roinn.

There are currently 80 proposed capital schemes which have been identified to the department by the relevant education authority. Twenty-four of these currently have economic appraisals, 5 of which have been approved by the Department. Of the 5 one was approved in October 2006, one June 2007, one January 2008 and two in June 2008. All of these schemes were the subject of site visits which are requested by the relevant authority in advance of the appraisal work.

The number of site visits in each of the past 5 years was as follows:

Year	Number of Visits
2003/04	15
2004/05	44
2005/06	29
2006/07	2
2007/08	2

Ballywalter Primary School

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education how long Ballywalter Primary School has been listed as a priority scheme by her Department; when her Department accepted the findings of the economic appraisal submitted by the South Eastern Education and Library Board; and the timescale for completion of this scheme.

(AQW 8050/08)

Ms C Ruane: Following a request from the South Eastern Education and Library Board, a site visit was undertaken by the Department’s technical advisors in 2007 and Ballywalter Primary was identified as having significant accommodation deficiencies. Earlier this month, the Department agreed the appraisal submitted by the South Eastern Education and Library Board for a new school on an alternative site.

De bharr nach bhfuil aon dáta leagtha síos don chéad fhógra eile i dtaobh cistiú caipitil, níl aon amscála ann ag an phointe seo maidir le leanúint ar aghaidh leis an scéim seo.

As there is currently no date set for the next capital funding announcement, there is no timescale at this stage for proceeding with this scheme.

Ballywalter Primary School

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Education when she expects to bring forward a capital build programme that includes a replacement school building for Ballywalter Primary school.

(AQW 8055/08)

Ms C Ruane: Following a request from the South Eastern Education and Library Board, a site visit to Ballywalter Primary School was undertaken by the Department’s technical advisors in 2007.

An mhí seo caite, thug an Roinn breithmheas eacnamaíochta chun réitigh; ba é Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt a chuir isteach é. Ní dhearnadh aon chinneadh go fóill ar thráthúlacht an chéad fhógra eile i dtaobh cistiú caipitil.

Last month, the Department agreed an economic appraisal submitted by the South Eastern Education and Library Board. No decision has been made on the timing of the next capital funding announcement.

New Build Project at Academy Primary, Saintfield

Mr Hamilton asked the Minister of Education what plans there are for a new build project at Academy Primary in Saintfield and what is the timescale for any proposal.

(AQW 8056/08)

Ms C Ruane: Following a request from the South Eastern Education and Library Board for a site visit to this school in May 2008, the Department has requested further information on the accommodation at the school to help inform the consideration of the necessity for a capital scheme. This information will be assessed by the Department on receipt and, if necessary, a site visit will be arranged.

Go dtí go gcomhaontaítear riachtanas le scéim chaipitil leis an Bhord ní féidir cur in iúl cá huair a rachadh tionscadal do Bhunscoil an Acadaimh ar aghaidh.

Until a need for a capital scheme has been agreed with the Board, it is not possible to give any indication as to when a project for Academy Primary School would proceed.

Entry to Controlled Nursery Schools

Mr O'Loan asked the Minister of Education whether a controlled nursery school can give entry preference to children who have an older brother or sister currently attending, or has previously attended, the school; and what is her assessment of the discriminatory impact of this criterion on (i) a child who is the eldest in a family; and (ii) the parents in terms of age.

(AQW 8078/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Pre-School Education in Schools (Admissions Criteria) Regulations 1999 apply to the admissions criteria used by nursery schools and nursery classes in primary schools. These Regulations state that priority must be given, in the following order, to:

children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who will be aged 4 before September in their final pre-school year

children from socially disadvantaged circumstances who will be aged 3 before September in their final pre-school year

children not falling within i. or ii. who will be aged 4 before 1 September in their final pre-school year

children not falling within i. or ii. who will be aged 3 before 1 September in their final pre-school year.

These Regulations also require that further criteria be set to reflect the Board of Governors’ priorities for admission to each school. Responsibility for drawing up these criteria rests entirely with the Board of Governors of each school. If the Governors’ wish to give entry preference to children who have an older brother or sister currently attending, or has previously attended, that is entirely a matter for the Board of Governors.

Nuair a chuirtear critéir iontrála i bhfeidhm mar is ceart, bíonn rogha le déanamh idir iarratasóirí áirithe thar iarratasóirí eile. Dá thairbhe sin, b’fhéidir go mbraithfeadh na daoine úd nár éirigh leo gur caitheadh go leatromach leo ar dhóigh éigin

The application of admissions criteria by definition involves the prioritisation of some applicants above others, and as such this may be perceived by those who are unsuccessful as being in some way discriminatory. However, provided the criteria employed are not in breach of either education or other relevant law, this should not be the case.

Capital Works Schemes

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education to outline the capital schemes that have been approved by her Department and the start date for each, broken down by parliamentary constituency.

(AQW 8099/08)

Ms C Ruane: Léiríonn Tábla A thíos na mórscéimeanna oibreacha caipitiúla a ceadaíodh agus na háiteanna ina bhfuil obair thógála á déanamh faoi láthair.

Table A below identifies major capital works schemes which have been approved and where construction is currently underway.

TABLE A

PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY	SCHOOL	DETAILS OF PROJECT	ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE
Belfast West	La Salle Boys’ S.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	Apr-09
Belfast West	St Dominic’s H.S. Belfast	Extension & Refurbishment	Jan-10
East Derry	Burnfoot/Dungiven/Largy P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	Aug-08
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	Mount Lourdes G.S. Enniskillen	Extension & Refurbishment	Jun-08
Lagan Valley	Ballymacrickett P.S.	New replacement school on extended site	Nov-08
Lagan Valley	Brookefield Special School, Moira	New replacement school on existing site	Feb-09
Lagan Valley	Ballinderry P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	Feb-09
Lagan Valley	Pond Park P.S. Lisburn	New replacement school on extended site	Apr-09
Newry & Armagh	St Colman’s College, Newry	Extension & Refurbishment	Feb-09
Newry & Armagh	St Peter’s P.S. Cloughreagh	New replacement school on existing site	Sep-09
Newry & Armagh	Abbey G.S. Newry	New replacement school on new site	Nov-09
North Antrim	Moorfields P.S. Ballymena	New replacement school on existing site	Aug-08
North Down	Bangor Academy	New replacement school on existing site	Jun-08
North Down	Towerview P.S. Bangor	New replacement school on existing site	Jul-09
South Down	St Patrick’s P.S. Saul	New replacement school on new site	Jul-08
South Down	Assumption G.S. Ballynahinch	Extension & Refurbishment	Dec-09
Strangford	Victoria P.S. Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site	Sep-08
Upper Bann	Waringstown P.S.	Extension & Refurbishment	Sep-08
West Tyrone	Holy Cross College, Strabane	New replacement school on existing site	Jul-08
West Tyrone	Drumragh Integrated College. Omagh	New replacement school on new site	Apr-09

There are also major capital schemes that have been approved which are currently at various stages of the planning process prior to the construction stage. The details of these projects are listed in Table B. These projects are being progressed with the relevant education authorities and the estimated timescales for doing so will be subject to all statutory approvals being achieved, the necessary planning and building processes being completed satisfactorily, and the availability of resources in any particular year.

TABLE B

PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY	SCHOOL	DETAILS OF PROJECT	ESTIMATED COMPLETION DATE
Belfast East	Glendhu NS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2008/09
Belfast East	Ravenscroft NS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2008/09
Belfast East	Strathearn GS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Belfast East	Knockbreda HS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Belfast East	Strand / Sydenham P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast East	Strandtown PS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Belfast East	Mitchell House Special School	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Belfast East	Greenwood Assessment Centre	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Belfast East	Ashfield Girls H.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Belfast East	Grosvenor G.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast East	Orangefield P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Belfast East	Lagan College, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2010/11
Belfast East	Our Lady & St Patrick’s College, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast North	Whitehouse PS, N'Abbey	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Belfast North	Little Flower Girls S.S, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Belfast North	Belfast Boys Model School	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast North	Belfast Model School for Girls	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Belfast South	Victoria College, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2012/13
Belfast South	Methodist College, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2013/14
Belfast South	Taughmonagh P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast West	Scoil Na Fuiseoige P.S, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Belfast West	Colaiste Feirste, Belfast	Extension & refurbishment	2010/11
Belfast West	Springhill P.S. Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Belfast West	Glenwood P.S./Edenderry NS, Belfast	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
East Derry	BallyKelly PS, Limavady	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
East Derry	Limegrove / Glasvey Special School	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	Lisbellaw P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	Coranny & Cornagague P.S.	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	St Pat's Boys/Girls Acad, Dgnon	New replacement school on existing site	2012/13
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	Enniskillen Model PS	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	St Paul's P.S. Irvinestown	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Fermanagh & South Tyrone	Devenish College	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
Foyle	Lisnagelvin P.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Foyle	New Buildings PS, Derry	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Foyle	Eglinton PS, Derry	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Foyle	Ebrington PS, L'Derry	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Foyle	Foyle & Londonderry College	New replacement school on new site	2012/13
Foyle	Belmont Special School	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Foyle	St Cecilia’s College, Derry (PPP)	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Foyle	St Mary’s College, Derry (PPP)	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
Lagan Valley	St Colman's P.S. Lambeg	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
Lagan Valley	Dromore Central P.S.	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Mid Ulster	St Columba's P.S, Straw, Draperstown	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
Mid Ulster	Magherafelt HS	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Mid Ulster	Magherafelt P.S.	New replacement school on new site	2009/10
Mid Ulster	Edendork P.S	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Mid Ulster	Holy Family PS, Magherafelt	New replacement school on extended site	2011/12
Mid Ulster	Rainey Endowed School, Magherafelt	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Mid Ulster	Holy Trinity College, Cookstown	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
Newry & Armagh	St Joseph's P.S Madden, Armagh	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Newry & Armagh	St Catherine's College, Armagh	Extension to Irish medium unit	2008/09
Newry & Armagh	St Clare’s Abbey PS Newry	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
Newry & Armagh	St Oliver Plunkett P.S. Forkhill	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Newry & Armagh	Dromintee P.S.	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
Newry & Armagh	St Joseph's Convent PS, Newry	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Newry & Armagh	St Patrick's G.S. Armagh	Extension & refurbishment	2012/13
North Antrim	St Patrick’s & St Brigid's P.S. B'castle	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
North Antrim	Ballymoney H.S.	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
North Antrim	St Mary’s P.S. Portglenone (PPP)	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
North Down	Bangor Grammar	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
North Down	St Columbanus College, Bangor	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
North Down	Priory College, Holywood	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
North Down	Holywood PS	New replacement school on new site	2012/13
South Antrim	Templepatrick PS	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
South Antrim	Parkhall College, Antrim	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
South Down	Carrick P.S. Warrenpoint	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
South Down	St Mary's P.S, Newcastle	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
South Down	St Louis Grammar, Kilkeel	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
South Down	Knockevin Spec School, Downpatrick	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
South Down	St Bronagh's P.S (Conv of Mercy/St Mary's Boys P.S) Rostrevor	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
South Down	The High School, Ballynahinch	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
South Down	St Patrick’s G.S. Downpatrick (PPP)	New replacement school on existing site	2009/10
Strangford	Glastry College, Ballyhalbert	New replacement school on extended site	2011/12
Strangford	S Joseph’s P.S. Carryduff (PPP)	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
Strangford	Tor Bank Special School, Dundonald (PPP)	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
Upper Bann	Banbridge Academy	Extension & refurbishment	2011/12
Upper Bann	St Teresa's PS, Lurgan	New replacement school on extended site	2009/10
Upper Bann	Tannaghmore P.S, Lurgan	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Upper Bann	St Patrick's College, Banbridge	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Upper Bann	St Mary's P.S, Banbridge	New replacement school on existing site	2010/11
Upper Bann	Lurgan College	New replacement school on existing site	2012/13
Upper Bann	Portadown College	New replacement school on existing site	2012/13
West Tyrone	St Columbkille's P.S. Carrickmore	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
West Tyrone	Artigarvan PS, Strabane	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
West Tyrone	St Conor's P.S, Omagh	New replacement school on extended site	2010/11
West Tyrone	Omagh IPS	New replacement school on new site	2010/11
West Tyrone	Dean Maguirc College, Carrickmore	New replacement school on new site	2011/12
West Tyrone	Cranny Special School, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
West Tyrone	Arvalee Spec School, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12
West Tyrone	Loreto College, Omagh	New replacement school on existing site	2011/12

Funding Initiatives

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Education what level of funding has been earmarked for major initiatives such as (i) children and young people's funding; (ii) Extended Schools; and (iii) Renewing Communities, in 2008-09; and how this compares with the level of funding in 2007-08.

(AQW 8155/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

Projects

2007/08 Allocation

£k

2008/09 Allocation

£k

Projects / activities formerly funded under the Children and Young People Funding Package

24,252

18,824

Renewing Communities

1,840

310

In addition to the above, for 2008-09, mainstream funding of £16.1 million has been provided within schools delegated budgets in line with the funding which was allocated direct to schools from the Children and Young People Funding Package in 2007/08.

In relation to the extended schools programme funded under the Children and Young People Funding Package, I wanted to continue funding at previous levels but with the resources available was unable to do so. I have only been able to continue funding at 60% of the level available to schools over the last two years meaning a massive cut from £10m to £5.8m.

Leanfaidh mé, gach deis atá ar fáil le linn na bliana, de bheith ag iarraidh tuilleadh acmhainní, ó thacaigh an Tionól le linn rún 20 Bealtaine, le hathbhunú an chláir thábhachtaigh seo.

I will continue to press at every available opportunity during the year for additional resources, given the endorsement by the Assembly during the motion on 20 May, to restore funding levels for this important programme.

You may have seen Nigel Dodds’ statement to the Assembly on 24 June regarding June Monitoring and it looks hopeful that additional resources will be made available for the programme.

Educational Psychologists

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Education how many children were waiting to see an educational psychologist on 1 December 2007, in each of the Education and Library Board areas.

(AQW 8156/08)

Ms C Ruane: Chuir Príomh-Fheidhmeannaigh na mBord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne in iúl dom go raibh an líon seo páistí a leanas ag feitheamh le síceolaí oideachasúil a fheiceáil ar 1 Nollaig 2007.

I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the Education and Library Boards that the following numbers of children were waiting to see an educational psychologist on 1 December 2007.

BELB	564
NEELB	499
SEELB	600
SELB	218
WELB	88

These figures are in regard to children with a variety of need, including Stage 3 (non-statutory assessments) and Stage 4 (statutory assessments) of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs, reviews at Stage 3 and Stage 5 of the Code of Practice, special testing at transfer stage between primary and post-primary, pre-school and examination arrangements.

Class Sizes

Mr K Robinson asked the Minister of Education the current maximum permissable class sizes for (i) P1 - P3 classes; (ii) P4 - P7 classes; and (iii) composite classes; and what plans her Department has to reduce pupil-teacher ratios.

(AQW 8184/08)

Ms C Ruane: The current maximum permissible class size for P1 – P4 classes (including composite classes) is 30. The Department has not set a maximum permissible class size in relation to P5 – P7 classes (including composite classes).

Creidim go bhfuil sé thar a bheith tábhachtach líon na ndaltaí a bhíonn i ranganna a laghdú; bheadh infheistíocht shubstaintiúil ón Choiste Fheidhmiúcháin de dhíth leis an sprioc sin a bhaint amach. Ar an ábhar go bhfuil ardchostas i gceist, breithneoidh an Coiste Feidhmiúcháin an plean taobh lena chuid tosaíochtaí eile.

I believe it is very important to reduce class sizes and this would require substantial investment by the Executive. It will therefore have to be considered alongside its other priorities.

St. Colman's Primary School, Shinn

Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of Education if she is aware of the Health and Safety risk associated with the overcrowding at St. Colman's Primary School, Shinn.

(AQW 8210/08)

Ms C Ruane: I am very aware of the accommodation issues at St Colman’s, having visited the school on 2 May 2008. I was very impressed by the commitment and dedication of the teachers and pupils.

Bhí measúnú á dhéanamh ag Roinn s'agamsa ar an chóiríocht ag an scoil agus rachaimid i dteagmháil leis an scoil arís roimh i bhfad maidir leis an dóigh a bhfuil cúrsaí.

My Department has been assessing the accommodation at the school and will be in contact with the school again shortly on the position.

Primary School Pupils Receiving School Transport

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education how many pupils attending (i) State Controlled primary schools; (ii) Catholic Maintained primary schools; (iii) Integrated primary schools; and (iv) Irish Medium primary schools, used school transport during the 2007-08 academic year, broken down by (a) Education and Library Board; and (ii) school.

(AQW 8220/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá dearbhaithe ag na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne go raibh an líon daltaí a leanas ag freastal ar na h-earnálacha bunscoile liostaithe agus ag fáil iompar scoile in 2007/08:

The Education and Library Boards have confirmed that the following number of pupils were attending the primary school sectors listed and receiving school transport in 2007/08:

	Controlled	Catholic Maintained	Integrated*	Irish Medium	TOTAL
BELB	79	0	157	3	239
NEELB	1,540	1,471	253	5	3,269
SEELB	1,178	491	127	5	1,801
SELB	1,985	2,780	159	16	4,940
WELB	2,408	3,215	352	125	6,100

* This category includes both Grant Maintained and Controlled Integrated schools.

Broken down by individual school as follows:

(i) Controlled Primary Schools:

Belfast Board:	Ballygolan Primary School	29
	Botanic Primary School	2
	Cregagh Primary School	2
	Down High School (Prep)	2
	Elmgrove Primary School	1
	Euston Street Primary School	1
	Glenwood Primary School	2
	Knockbreda Primary School	3
	Orangefield Primary School	1
	Taughmonagh Primary School	35
	Vere Foster Primary School	1
North-Eastern Board:	Antrim Primary School	2
	Armoy Primary School	3
	Ballyclare Primary School	5
	Ballykeel Primary School	1
	Ballymena Primary School	6
	Ballymoney Model Primary School	3
	Ballynure Primary School	22
	Ballysally Primary School	6
	Ballytober Primary School	6
	Balnamore Primary School	7
	Broughshane Primary School	44
	Buick Memorial Primary School	74
	Bushmills Primary School	4
	Bushvalley Primary School	68
	Cairncastle Primary School	15
	Carnaghts Primary School	28
	Carnalbanagh Primary School	27
	Carrickfergus Central Primary School	1
	Carrowreagh Primary School	22
	Castleroe Primary School	1
	Clough Primary School	83
	Cloughmills Primary School	5
	Creavery Primary School	5
	Cregagh Primary School	1
	Crumlin Primary School	111
	Cullycapple Primary School	2
	D H Christie Memorial Primary School	2
	D H Christie Memorial Primary School, Special Unit	62
	Dromara Primary School	1
	Drumachose Primary School	1
	Drumard Primary School	19
	Duneane Primary School	4
	Dunseverick Primary School	93
	Earlview Primary School	1
	Eden Primary School, Ballymoney	14
	Fairview Primary School	1
	Garvagh Primary School	37
	Gorran Primary School	51
	Gracehill Primary School	13
	Greenisland Primary School	1
	Groggan Primary School	61
	Harpur's Hill Primary School	2
	Hazelbank Primary School	29
	Hezlett Primary School	32
	Kells & Connor Primary School	17
	Kilbride Central Primary School	1
	Kilrea Primary School	38
	Kilross Primary School	6
	Knockahollet Primary School	34
	Knockloughrim Primary School	24
	Larne & Inver Primary School	6
	Leaney Primary School	4
	Limavady Central Primary School	1
	Longstone Primary School	31
	Macosquin Primary School	20
	Maghera Primary School	8
	Magherafelt Primary School	16
	Millburn Primary School	1
	Moneymore Primary School	8
	Moorfields Primary School	104
	Mossley Primary School	3
	Moyle Primary School	1
	Mullaghdubh Primary School	1
	Oakfield Primary School	1
	Pond Park Primary School	1
	Portglenone Primary School	24
	Portstewart Primary School	3
	Randalstown Central Primary School	19
	Rasharkin Primary School	37
	Straid Primary School	26
	Straidbilly Primary School	7
	Straidhavern Primary School	41
	Templepatrick Primary School	7
	The Diamond Primary School	9
	The Irish Society's Primary School	2
	The Thompson Primary School	2
	Tildarg Primary School	16
	Toreagh Primary School	4
	Upper Ballyboley Primary School	22
	Victoria Primary School	1
	Whitehouse Primary School	2
	Woodburn Primary School	2
	Woods Primary School	14


South-Eastern Board:	Abbey Primary School	2
	Academy Primary School	41
	Alexander Dickson Primary School	1
	Anahilt Primary School	34
	Andrews Memorial Primary School	6
	Ballinderry Primary School	53
	Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School	74
	Ballycloughan Primary School	1
	Ballygolan Primary School	1
	Ballyholme Primary School	3
	Ballykeigle Primary School	10
	Ballymacash Primary School	2
	Ballymagee Primary School	5
	Ballynahinch Primary School	1
	Ballywalter Primary School	3
	Belvoir Park Primary School	36
	Bloomfield Road Primary School	13
	Braniel Primary School	2
	Brooklands Primary School	6
	Brownlee Primary School	1
	Cairnshill Primary School	3
	Carrowdore Primary School	1
	Castle Gardens Primary School	2
	Castlewellan Primary School	28
	Clandeboye Primary School	9
	Comber Primary School	1
	Crawfordsburn Primary School	3
	Cregagh Primary School	5
	Crumlin Primary School	13
	Cumran Primary School	101
	Donaghadee Primary School	5
	Down High Preparatory	3
	Downpatrick Primary School	60
	Downshire Primary School	18
	Dromara Primary School	28
	Dromore Central Primary School	1
	Dundonald Primary School	4
	Dunmurry Primary School	1
	Gilnahirk Primary School	2
	Grange Park Primary School	1
	Harmony Hill Primary School	1
	Holywood Primary School	7
	Kilcooley Primary School	1
	Killinchy Primary School	114
	Killowen Primary School	4
	Kilmaine Primary School	2
	Kirkistown Primary School	26
	Knockbreda Primary School	17
	Knockmore Primary School	56
	Largymore Primary School	4
	Leadhill Primary School	2
	Lisburn Central Primary School	1
	Lisnasharragh Primary School	4
	Loughries Primary School	1
	Maghaberry Primary School	16
	McKinney Primary School	39
	Meadow Bridge Primary School	140
	Millisle Primary School	1
	Moira Primary School	5
	Moneyrea Primary School	2
	Newcastle Primary School	6
	Newtownards Model Primary School	5
	Newtownbreda Primary School	1
	Old Warren Primary School	2
	Pond Park Primary School	5
	Portavogie Primary School	1
	Rathmore Primary School	3
	Redburn Primary School	1
	Riverdale Primary School	26
	Seymour Hill Primary School	18
	Spa Primary School	33
	Strandtown Primary School	1
	Taughmonagh Primary School	2
	Towerview Primary School	14
	Victoria Primary School (Ballyhalbert)	18
	Victoria Primary School (Newtownards)	4
	West Winds Primary School	11

Southern Board:	Abercorn Primary School	1
	Augher Central Primary School	18
	Aughnacloy Primary School	58
	Ballinderry Primary School	2
	Ballydown Primary School	46
	Ballytrea Primary School	61
	Benburb Primary School	14
	Birches Primary School	54
	Brackenagh West Primary School	162
	Bronte Primary School	9
	Bush Primary School	35
	Carntall Primary School	79
	Carrick Primary School, Lurgan	36
	Churchill Primary School	37
	Clare Primary School	38
	Clogher Regional Primary School	1
	Cookstown Primary School	6
	Cortamlet Primary School	55
	Donaghey Primary School	28
	Donaghmore Primary School	23
	Dromore Central Primary School	37
	Drumadonnell Primary School	35
	Drumhillery Primary School	47
	Dungannon Primary School	2
	Edenderry Primary School, Banbridge	2
	Fair Hill Primary School	28
	Fivemiletown Primary School	9
	Hamiltonsbawn Primary School	20
	Hardy Memorial Primary School	52
	Howard Primary School	1
	Iveagh Primary School	37
	Kilkeel Primary School	37
	Killylea Primary School	6
	Killyman Primary School	1
	Kingsmills Primary School	17
	Lisfearty Primary School	25
	Lisnadill Primary School	1
	Markethill Primary School	112
	Minterburn Primary School	6
	Mountnorris Primary School	48
	Moy Regional Primary School	4
	Newmills Primary School	15
	Newtownhamilton Primary School	36
	Omagh County Primary School	1
	Orchard County Primary School	60
	Orritor Primary School	90
	Poyntzpass Primary School	36
	Queen Elizabeth II Primary School	22
	Richmond Primary School	70
	Richmount Primary School	184
	Scarva Primary School	18
	Stewartstown Primary School	6
	Tamnamore Primary School	6
	Tandragee Primary School	2
	The Armstrong Primary School	1
	The Cope Primary School	112
	Walker Memorial Primary School	36

Western Board:	Aghadrumsee Primary School	45
	Ardstraw Primary School	22
	Artigarvan Primary School	71
	Ashlea Primary School	3
	Ballinamallard Primary School	5
	Ballykelly Primary School	65
	Bellarena Primary School	28
	Belleek No 2 Primary School	33
	Bready Jubilee Primary School	70
	Bridgehill Primary School	36
	Brookeborough Primary School	24
	Burnfoot Primary School	19
	Cooley Primary School	98
	Cumber Claudy Primary School	82
	Denamona Primary School	51
	Derrygonnelly Primary School	34
	Donemana Primary School	75
	Dromore Primary School	34
	Drumachose Primary School	27
	Drumahoe Primary School	20
	Drumlegagh Primary School	25
	Dunmullan Primary School	33
	Ebrington Primary School	1
	Edwards Primary School	57
	Eglinton Primary School	24
	Enniskillen Model Primary School	106
	Erganagh Primary School	21
	Fivemiletown Primary School	45
	Florencecourt Primary School	82
	Gibson Primary School	93
	Gillygooley Primary School	38
	Gortin Primary School	35
	Hezlett Primary School	2
	Irvinestown Primary School	70
	Jones Memorial Primary School	88
	Kesh Primary School	96
	Killen Primary School	11
	Lack Primary School	37
	Langfield Primary School	22
	Largy Primary School	12
	Limavady Central Primary School	48
	Lisbellaw Primary School	125
	Lisnagelvin Primary School	2
	Londonderry Model Primary School	2
	Maguiresbridge Primary School	33
	McClintock Primary School	55
	Moat Primary School	50
	Newbuildings Primary School	2
	Newtownbutler Primary School	29
	Newtownstewart Model Primary School	19
	Omagh County Primary School	60
	Queen Elizabeth II Primary School, Kilskeery	23
	Shanmullagh Primary School	7
	Sion Mills Primary School	26
	Strabane Primary School	99
	Tempo No 1 Primary School	76
	Trillick Primary School	12

(ii) Maintained Primary Schools:

North-Eastern Board:	Altayeskey Primary School	6
	Anahorish Primary School	4
	Ballyhackett Primary School	27
	Barnish Primary School	27
	Braid Primary School	10
	Creggan Primary School	3
	Crossroads Primary School	68
	Glenravel Primary School	43
	Holy Family Primary School	1
	Holy Trinity Primary School	1
	Knocknagin Primary School	1
	Millquarter Primary School	26
	Moneynick Primary School	7
	Mount St Michael's Primary School	29
	New Row Primary School	1
	Sacred Heart Boys Primary School	1
	Seaview Primary School	52
	St Anne's Primary School	36
	St Anthony's Primary School	3
	St Bernard's Primary School	6
	St Brigid's Primary School, Ballymoney	12
	St Brigid's Primary School, Cloughmills	24
	St Brigid's Primary School, Magherafelt	53
	St Brigid's Primary School, Mountjoy	1
	St Brigid's Primary School, Tirkane	69
	St Ciaran's Primary School	1
	St Colmcille's Primary School	6
	St Colmcilles Primary School, Ballymena	12
	St Columba's Primary School, Draperstown	14
	St Columba's Primary School, Garvagh	68
	St Columba's Primary School, Kilrea	9
	St Columb's Primary School, Desertmartin	17
	St Eoghan's Primary School	8
	St Francis' Primary School, Lurgan	1
	St James' Primary School, Newtownabbey	1
	St John Bosco Primary School, Ballynease	2
	St John's Primary School, Carnlough	4
	St John's Primary School, Coleraine	2
	St John's Primary School, Swatragh	29
	St Joseph's Primary School, Ahoghill	2
	St Joseph's Primary School, Crumlin	63
	St Joseph's Primary School, Dunloy	64
	St MacNissi's Primary School, Newtownabbey	3
	St MacNissius' Primary School	4
	St Malachy's Primary School	1
	St Mary's Primary School, Ballymena	13
	St Mary's Primary School, Belfast	16
	St Mary's Primary School, Cushendall	4
	St Mary's Primary School, Draperstown	16
	St Mary's Primary School, Glenview	4
	St Mary's Primary School, Greenlough	18
	St Mary's Primary School, Portglenone	69
	St Mary's PS Special Unit, Glenview	25
	St Mary's Star of the Sea Primary School	1
	St Nicholas' Primary School	20
	St Olcan's Primary School	8
	St Oliver Plunkett's Primary School	6
	St Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School	21
	St Patrick's & St Joseph's Primary School	104
	St Patrick's Primary School, Ahoghill	2
	St Patrick's Primary School, Glenariff	12
	St Patrick's Primary School, Loughgiel	96
	St Patrick's Primary School, Loup	3
	St Patrick's Primary School, Maghera	99
	St Patrick's Primary School, Portrush	2
	St Patrick's Primary School, Rasharkin	109
	St Trea's Primary School	1

South-Eastern Board:	Ballymacrickett Primary School	61
	Ballymacward Primary School	32
	Christ the King Primary School, Drumaness	2
	Convent of Mercy Primary School	1
	Holy Family Primary School	18
	Holy Trinity Primary School	9
	Our Lady Queen of Peace Primary School	1
	St Aloysius Primary School	8
	St Anne's Primary School	1
	St Bernard's Primary School	3
	St Colman's Primary School, Lambeg	24
	St Colman's Primary School, Moira	12
	St Colmcille's Primary School	11
	St Comgall's Primary School	5
	St Finian's Primary School	2
	St Francis' Primary School, Drumaroad	5
	St Ita's Primary School	1
	St Joseph's Primary School, Carryduff	2
	St Joseph's Primary School, Crumlin	1
	St Joseph's Primary School, Holland Dr	2
	St Joseph's Primary School, Lisburn	2
	St Joseph's Primary School, Strangford	14
	St Joseph's Primary School, Tyrella	5
	St Kieran's Primary School	6
	St Luke's Primary School	1
	St Macartan's Primary School	39
	St Malachy's Primary School, Bangor	23
	St Malachy's Primary School, Castlewellan	20
	St Malachy's Primary School, Kilclief	2
	St Malachy's Primary School, Kilcoo	22
	St Mark's Primary School	2
	St Mary's Primary School, Derrymore	1
	St Mary's Primary School, Killyleagh	1
	St Mary's Primary School, Kircubbin	63
	St Mary's Primary School, Newcastle	2
	St Mary's Primary School, Portaferry	8
	St Michael's Primary School, Finnis	22
	St Nicholas' Primary School	4
	St Patrick's Primary School, Ballygalget	20
	St Patrick's Primary School, Ballynahinch	1
	St Patrick's Primary School, Derrynaseer	4
	St Patrick's Primary School, Downpatrick	5
	St Patrick's Primary School, Holywood	1
	St Patrick's Primary School, Legamaddy	20
	St Patrick's Primary School, Saul	2

Southern Board:	Aughamullan Primary School	50
	Ballyholland Primary School	123
	Ballymacrickett Primary School	1
	Blessed Patrick O'Loughran Primary School	34
	Clintyclay Primary School	5
	Clonalig Primary School	73
	Crievagh Primary School	18
	Derrylatinee St Francis Primary School	75
	Edendork Primary School	48
	Holy Trinity Primary School	5
	Laghey Primary School	15
	Moneydarragh Primary School	12
	Our Lady's & St Mochua's Primary School	61
	Primate Dixon Primary School	17
	Roan St Patrick's Primary School	30
	Sacred Heart Primary School	113
	St Brendan's Primary School	1
	St Brigid's Primary School, Augher	1
	St Brigid's Primary School, Drumilly	39
	St Brigid's Primary School, Glassdrummond	123
	St Brigid's Primary School, Mountjoy	64
	St Clare's Convent Primary School	5
	St Colman's Abbey Primary School	1
	St Colman's Primary School, Annaclone	59
	St Colman's Primary School, Bann	2
	St Colman's Primary School, Dromore	17
	St Colman's Primary School, Saval	96
	St Francis' Primary School, Aghaderg	22
	St James' Primary School, Drumatee	16
	St Jarlath's Primary School, Blackwatertown	33
	St John's Primary School, Eglish	45
	St John's Primary School, Kingsisland	13
	St John's Primary School, Middletown	53
	St John's Primary School, Moy	25
	St Joseph's and St James's Primary School	73
	St Joseph's Convent Primary School	40
	St Joseph's Primary School, Caledon	14
	St Joseph's Primary School, Crumlin	1
	St Joseph's Primary School, Galbally	93
	St Joseph's Primary School, Killeenan	58
	St Laurence O'Toole Primary School	15
	St MacCartan's Convent Primary School	28
	St Malachy's Primary School, Ballymoyer	72
	St Malachy's Primary School, Drummullan	8
	St Malachy's Primary School, Glencull	13
	St Mary's Primary School, Aughnacloy	22
	St Mary's Primary School, Ballygawley	25
	St Mary's Primary School, Cabra	120
	St Mary's Primary School, Derrymore	17
	St Mary's Primary School, Dunamore	114
	St Mary's Primary School, Glassdrumman	34
	St Mary's Primary School, Maghery	74
	St Mary's Primary School, Mullaghbawn	135
	St Mary's Primary School, Pomeroy	80
	St Mary's Primary School, Stewartstown	20
	St Michael's Primary School, Finnis	22
	St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Ballyhegan	32
	St Patrick's Primary School, Aghacommon	30
	St Patrick's Primary School, Annaghmore	49
	St Patrick's Primary School, Crossmaglen	55
	St Patrick's Primary School, Donaghmore	28
	St Patrick's Primary School, Dungannon	6
	St Patrick's Primary School, Loup	33
	St Patrick's Primary School, Mayobridge	43
	St Patrick's Primary School, Mullinahoe	92
	St Ronan's Primary School, Newry	1
	St Teresa's Primary School Tullyherron	38

Western Board:	All Saint's Primary School, Tattysallagh	11
	Altishane Primary School	12
	Barrack Street Boys' Primary School	8
	Broadbridge Primary School	33
	Chapel Road Primary School	1
	Christ the King Primary School	2
	Cornagague Primary School	45
	Corranny Primary School	58
	Craigbrack Primary School	6
	Drumduff Primary School	31
	Drumnabey Primary School	5
	Envagh Primary School	22
	Evish Primary School	21
	Faughanvale Primary School	22
	Glendermott Primary School	7
	Good Shepherd Primary School	2
	Gortnagarn Primary School	13
	Hollybush Primary School	1
	Holy Child Primary School	1
	Holy Family Primary School	3
	Holy Trinity Primary School	94
	Killyhommon Primary School	44
	Knocknagor Primary School	25
	Listress Primary School	15
	Longtower Primary School	1
	Loughash Primary School	29
	Magheralough Primary School	23
	Mullabuoy Primary School	8
	Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Greencastle	92
	Recarson Primary School	1
	Roscavey Primary School	12
	St Aidan's Primary School, Magilligan	10
	St Anne's Primary School, Derry	11
	St Anne's Primary School, Strabane	12
	St Anthony's Primary School, Limavady	20
	St Brigid's Primary School, Altamuskin	52
	St Brigid's Primary School, Carnhill	1
	St Brigid's Primary School, Cranagh	23
	St Brigid's Primary School, Mountfield	5
	St Caireall's Primary School	82
	St Canice Primary School, Dungiven	45
	St Canice's Primary School, Feeny	10
	St Colmcille's Primary School, Claudy	88
	St Colmcille's Primary School, Omagh	3
	St Columban's Primary School, Belcoo	75
	St Columba's Primary School, Clady	16
	St Columba's Primary School, Dromore	3
	St Columba's Primary School, Newbuildings	1
	St Columbkille's Primary School, Carrickmore	130
	St Conor's Primary School, Omagh	13
	St Davog's Primary School, Belleek	30
	St Davog's Primary School, Scraghey	11
	St Dympna's Primary School, Dromore	12
	St Eithne's Primary School, Derry	1
	St Eugene's Primary School, Knocks	9
	St Eugene's Primary School, Tircur	23
	St Eugene's Primary School, Victoria Bridge	20
	St John the Baptist Primary School, Roscor	59
	St John's Primary School, Bligh's Lane	1
	St Joseph's Primary School, Donagh	36
	St Joseph's Primary School, Drumquin	63
	St Joseph's Primary School, Ederney	61
	St Joseph's Primary School, Glenmornan	8
	St Lawrence's Primary School, Fintona	92
	St Macartan's Primary School	6
	St Martin's Primary School, Garrison	62
	St Mary's Boys' Primary School, Strabane	3
	St Mary's Primary School, Fivemiletown	10
	St Mary's Primary School, Altinure	96
	St Mary's Primary School, Brookeborough	49
	St Mary's Primary School, Cloughcor	60
	St Mary's Primary School, Killesher	39
	St Mary's Primary School, Killyclogher	6
	St Mary's Primary School, Maguiresbridge	41
	St Mary's Primary School, Mullymesker	61
	St Mary's Primary School, Newtownbutler	63
	St Mary's Primary School, Teemore	33
	St Mary's Primary School, Tempo No 2	56
	St Matthew's Primary School, Drumsurn	18
	St Matthew's Primary School, Garvaghey	21
	St Naile's Primary School	72
	St Ninnidh's Primary School	48
	St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Beragh	32
	St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Strathfoyle	1
	St Patrick's Primary School, Castlederg	42
	St Patrick's Primary School, Creggan	25
	St Patrick's Primary School, Derrygonnelly	58
	St Patrick's Primary School, Dunamanagh	19
	St Patrick's Primary School, Eskra	23
	St Patrick's Primary School, Gortin	41
	St Patrick's Primary School, Mullanaskea	65
	St Patrick's Primary School, Newtownstewart	31
	St Patrick's Primary School, Pennyburn	6
	St Patrick's Primary School, Seskinore	7
	St Paul's Primary School, Irvinestown	42
	St Peter's & St Paul's Primary School	14
	St Peter's Primary School, Plumbridge	61
	St Ronan's Primary School, Lisnaskea	60
	St Scire's Primary School	45
	St Teresa's Primary School, Loughmacrory	76
	St Theresa's Primary School, Glebe	5
	St Therese Primary School, Lenamore	1
	St Tierney's Primary School, Roslea	38
	Tattygar Primary School	25
	Termoncanice Primary School	53
	Trench Road Primary School	3
	Tummery Primary School	24

(iii) Integrated Primary Schools

Belfast Board:	Cranmore Integrated Primary School	47
	Forge Integrated Primary School	9
	Hazelwood Primary School	94
	Loughview Integrated Primary School	7

North-Eastern Board:	Acorn Integrated Primary School	23
	Ballycastle Controlled Integrated Primary School	8
	Braidside Integrated Primary School	89
	Carhill Integrated Primary School	34
	Carnlough Integrated Primary School	2
	Corran Integrated Primary School	12
	Glengormley Integrated Primary School	5
	Hazelwood Primary School	40
	Mill Strand Integrated Primary School	22
	Rathenraw Integrated Primary School, Special Unit	9
	Roundtower Integrated Primary School	8
	Spires Integrated Primary School	1

South-Eastern Board:	All Children's Integrated Primary School	31
	Annsborough Integrated Primary School	15
	Bangor Central Integrated Primary School	4
	Cranmore Integrated Primary School	2
	Kircubbin Integrated Primary School	37
	Lough View Integrated Primary School	29
	Millennium Integrated Primary School	2
	Oakwood Integrated Primary School	4
	Portadown Integrated Primary School	1
	Portaferry Integrated Primary School	2
Southern Board:	All Children's Integrated Primary School	2
	Bridge Primary School	36
	Portadown Integrated Primary School	59
	Saints and Scholars Primary School	62

Western Board:	Enniskillen Integrated Primary School	78
	Groarty Integrated Primary School	2
	Oakgrove Integrated Primary School	156
	Omagh Integrated Primary School	114
	Roe Valley Integrated Primary School	2

(iv) Irish-Medium Primary Schools

Belfast Board:	Bunscoil Phobal Feirste	3

North-Eastern Board:	Bunscoil Mhic Reachtain	2
	Bunscoil Phobal Feirste	2
	Gaelscoil Na Speiriní	1

South-Eastern Board:	Bunscoil Phobal Feirste	5

Southern Board:	Gaelscoil Ui Neill	16

Western Board:	Bunscoil Cholmcille, Carrickmore	53
	Bunscoil Cholmcille, Derry	37
	Gaelscoil Eadain Mhoir, Derry	33
	Gaelscoil Uí Dhochartaigh, Strabane	2

Post-Primary Pupils Receiving School Transport

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education how many pupils attending (i) State Controlled post-primary schools; (ii) Catholic Maintained post-primary schools; (iii) Integrated post-primary schools; and (iv) Irish Medium post-primary schools, used school transport during the 2007-08 academic year, broken down by (a) Education and Library Board; and (ii) school.

(AQW 8221/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá dearbhaithe ag na Boird Oideachais agus Leabharlainne go raibh an líon daltaí a leanas ag freastal ar na h-earnálacha iar-bhunscoile liostaithe agus ag fáil iompar scoile in 2007/08:

The Education and Library Boards have confirmed that the following number of pupils were attending the post-primary school sectors listed and receiving school transport in 2007/08:

	Controlled	Catholic Maintained	Integrated*	Irish Medium	TOTAL
BELB	124	24	942	69	1,159
NEELB	5,025	2,937	1,301	12	9,275
SEELB	4,195	1,872	1,658	102	7,827
SELB	5,159	5,697	962	27	11,845
WELB	3,977	4,179	1,472	18	9,646

* This category includes both Grant Maintained and Controlled Integrated schools.

Broken down by individual school as follows:

(i) Controlled Post-Primary Schools:

Belfast Board:	Antrim Grammar School	2
	Ashfield Boys' High School	3
	Ashfield Girls' High School	2
	Ballyclare High School	2
	Ballynahinch High School	1
	Balmoral High School	4
	Bangor Academy	3
	Belfast Boys’ Model School	11
	Belfast Model School for Girls	3
	Castle High School	2
	Downshire School	1
	Dundonald High School	3
	Dunmurry High School	34
	Glengormley High School	3
	Grosvenor Grammar School	9
	Knockbreda High School	4
	Lisnagarvey High School	1
	Lisnasharragh High School	1
	Monkstown Community School	3
	Nendrum College	2
	Newtownbreda High School	9
	Orangefield High School	7
	Wellington College	14

North-Eastern Board:	Antrim Grammar School	305
	Ashfield Girls' High School	1
	Ballee Community High School	97
	Ballycastle High School	254
	Ballyclare High School	632
	Ballyclare Secondary School	320
	Ballymoney High School	274
	Ballymoney HS Special Unit	12
	Balmoral High School	1
	Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College	1
	Belfast Model School for Girls	2
	Cambridge House Grammar School	672
	Carrickfergus College	109
	Carrickfergus Grammar School	80
	Coleraine College	89
	Coleraine College Special Unit	13
	Coleraine High School	389
	Cullybackey High School	394
	Downshire School	193
	Dunclug College	277
	Dunluce School	247
	Garvagh High School	90
	Glengormley High School	41
	Knockbreda High School	1
	Larne High School	56
	Larne High School Special Unit	7
	Limavady Grammar School	15
	Limavady High School	23
	Maghera High School	78
	Maghera High School Special Unit	20
	Magherafelt High School	203
	Monkstown Community High School	11
	Monkstown Community HS Special Unit	5
	Newtownabbey Community High School	10
	Parkhall College	101
	Wellington College	2

South-Eastern Board:	Antrim Grammar School	12
	Ashfield Boys' High School	3
	Ashfield Girls' High School	20
	Ballynahinch High School	198
	Banbridge Academy	26
	Banbridge High School	3
	Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College	95
	Belfast Boys' Model School	1
	Carrickfergus College	1
	Carrickfergus Grammar School	1
	Castle High School	1
	Craigavon Senior High School, Lurgan	24
	Donaghadee High School	81
	Down High School	851
	Dromore High School	249
	Dundonald High School	28
	Dunmurry High School	6
	Glastry College	418
	Glenlola Collegiate	148
	Grosvenor Grammar School	393
	Kilkeel High School	44
	Knockbreda High School	13
	Laurelhill Community College	172
	Lisnagarvey High School	24
	Lisnasharragh High School	5
	Lurgan College	65
	Lurgan Junior High School	123
	Movilla High School	12
	Nendrum College	47
	Newtownbreda High School	42
	Orangefield High School	10
	Parkhall College	4
	Rathfriland High School	12
	Regent House	588
	Saintfield High School	191
	Wellington College	284

Southern Board:	Aughnacloy College	120
	Ballynahinch High School	12
	Banbridge Academy	740
	Banbridge High School	197
	City of Armagh High School	188
	Clounagh Junior High School	179
	Collegiate Grammar School	14
	Cookstown High School	505
	Craigavon Senior High School, Lurgan	54
	Craigavon Senior High School, Portadown	195
	Devenish College, Enniskillen	1
	Down High School	5
	Dromore High School	217
	Drumglass High School	290
	Fivemiletown College	190
	Kilkeel High School	308
	Killicomaine Junior High School	42
	Laurelhill Community College	3
	Lisnagarvey High School	3
	Lurgan College	188
	Lurgan Junior High School	108
	Magherafelt High School	25
	Markethill High School	514
	Newry High School	227
	Newtownhamilton High School	252
	Omagh Academy Grammar School	28
	Omagh High School	2
	Portadown College	341
	Rathfriland High School	122
	Tandragee Junior High	86
	Wellington College	3

Western Board:	Castlederg High School	330
	Coleraine College	4
	Coleraine High School	9
	Collegiate Grammar School	399
	Devenish College, Enniskillen	545
	Fivemiletown HS & Community College	180
	Limavady Grammar School	469
	Limavady High School	314
	Lisnaskea High School	146
	Lisneal College	331
	Omagh Academy Grammar School	429
	Omagh High School	256
	Strabane Grammar School	337
	Strabane High School	228

(ii) Maintained Post-Primary Schools:

Belfast Board:	Christian Brothers' School	1
	Edmund Rice College	3
	Little Flower Girls’ School	1
	Our Lady of Mercy Girls' School	1
	St Colman's High School, Ballynahinch	4
	St Columbanus' College, Bangor	2
	St Gabriel's College, Belfast	1
	St Joseph's College, Belfast	6
	St Louise's Comprehensive College, Belfast	2
	St Patrick's College	3

North-Eastern Board:	Christian Brothers Secondary School	2
	Cross & Passion College	289
	De La Salle Boys' School	18
	Edmund Rice College	22
	Holy Trinity College	4
	La Salle Boys' Junior School	1
	Little Flower Girls' School	209
	Our Lady of Lourdes High School	139
	Our Lady of Lourdes HS Special Unit	18
	Our Lady of Mercy Girls’ School	36
	St Aloysius' High School	46
	St Benedict's College	334
	St Brigid's College	1
	St Colm's High School, Draperstown	135
	St Colm's High School, Twinbrook	1
	St Comgall's College	38
	St Gemma's High School	2
	St Genevieve’s High School	16
	St Joseph's College, Belfast	1
	St Joseph's College, Coleraine	135
	St Louise's Comprehensive College	69
	St Mary's College	154
	St Mary's High School, Limavady	2
	St Mary's High School, Lurgan	1
	St Patrick's College, Ballymena	165
	St Patrick's College, Bearnageeha	15
	St Patrick's College, Maghera	592
	St Patrick's College Special Unit, Maghera	15
	St Patrick's High School, Lisburn	28
	St Paul's College	197
	St Paul's High School, Lurgan	2
	St Pius X College	244
	St Rose's High School	6

South-Eastern Board:	Christian Brothers’ Secondary School	10
	Corpus Christi College	2
	De La Salle High School	143
	La Salle Boys' School	28
	Lismore Comprehensive School	8
	St Colman's High School	127
	St Colmcille's High School	295
	St Colm's High School	1
	St Columban's College	1
	St Columbanus' College	194
	St Columba's College	114
	St Genevieve's High School	11
	St Joseph's College	38
	St Louise's Comprehensive College	46
	St Malachy's High School	486
	St Mary's High School, Downpatrick	237
	St Mary's High School, Lurgan	21
	St Patrick's College, Banbridge	2
	St Patrick's High School, Lisburn	94
	St Paul's Junior High School	9
	St Rose's High School	5

Southern Board:	Dean Maguirc College	3
	Drumcree College	41
	Holy Trinity College	475
	Lismore Comprehensive School	227
	Sacred Heart College	1
	St Brigid's High School, Armagh	83
	St Catherine's College	448
	St Ciaran's High School	550
	St Colman's High School	7
	St Colm's High School, Draperstown	4
	St Columban's College	108
	St Genevieve's High School	1
	St Joseph's Boys' High School, Newry	106
	St Joseph's College, Coalisland	149
	St Joseph's High School, Crossmaglen	473
	St Louise's Comprehensive College	1
	St Malachy's High School, Castlewellan	344
	St Mark's High School, Warrenpoint	470
	St Mary's High School, Downpatrick	1
	St Mary's High School, Lurgan	137
	St Mary's High School, Newry	152
	St Patrick's College, Maghera	4
	St Patrick's College, Banbridge	192
	St Patrick's College, Dungannon	310
	St Patrick's High School, Keady	482
	St Patrick's High School, Lisburn	1
	St Paul's High School, Bessbrook	559
	St Paul's High School, Lurgan	95
	St Pius X College	273

Western Board:	Dean Maguirc College	387
	Holy Cross College	393
	Immaculate Conception College	36
	Sacred Heart College	428
	St Aidan's High School, Derrylin	146
	St Brigid's College	30
	St Cecilia's College	370
	St Ciaran's High School	184
	St Colms HS, Draperstown	16
	St Comhghall's College	159
	St Eugene's College, Roslea	177
	St Eugene's High School, Castlederg	87
	St Fanchea's College	190
	St John's Business and Enterprise College	116
	St Joseph's Boys' High School, Creggan	26
	St Joseph's College, Enniskillen	160
	St Mary's College, Irvinestown	101
	St Mary's College, Londonderry	35
	St Mary's High School, Brollagh	137
	St Mary's Secondary School, Limavady	441
	St Patrick's & St Brigid's College	219
	St Patrick's College, Dungiven	120
	St Patrick's College, Maghera	208
	St Peter's High School	13

(iii) Integrated Post-Primary Schools:

Belfast Board:	Fort Hill Integrated College	39
	Hazelwood Integrated College	299
	Lagan College	291
	Malone College	257
	Priory College	55
	Ulidia Integrated College	1

North-Eastern Board:	Crumlin Integrated College	111
	Fort Hill Integrated College	2
	Hazelwood Integrated College	115
	Lagan College	6
	Malone College	17
	North Coast Integrated College	169
	Priory College	1
	Slemish Integrated College	476
	Sperrin Integrated College	171
	Ulidia Integrated College	223

South-Eastern Board:	Crumlin Integrated College	68
	Down Academy	191
	Fort Hill Integrated College	136
	Hazelwood Integrated College	5
	Lagan College	369
	Malone College	45
	New-Bridge Integrated College	2
	Priory College	191
	Shimna College	192
	Strangford College	459


Southern Board:	Armagh Integrated College	52
	Brownlow College	97
	Crumlin Integrated College	2
	Drumragh Integrated College	6
	Fort Hill Integrated College	11
	Integrated College, Dungannon	246
	Lagan College	2
	Malone College	4
	New-Bridge Integrated College	367
	Shimna Integrated College	100
	Sperrin Integrated College	75

Western Board:	Drumragh Integrated College	355
	Erne Integrated College	241
	North Coast Integrated College	2
	Oakgrove Integrated College	874

(iv) Irish-Medium Post-Primary Schools:

Belfast Board:	Coláiste Feirste	69

North-Eastern Board:	Coláiste Feirste	12

South-Eastern Board:	Coláiste Feirste	102

Southern Board:	Coláiste Feirste	1
	St Catherine’s College, Irish Medium Unit	26

Western Board:	Coláiste Bhride (St Brigid's College)	18

Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme

Mr Attwood asked the Minister of Education for an update on the working group on Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme, particularly in relation to the issue of 'hard charging' schools for teachers' added years; and what plans she has to respond to the issue.

(AQW 8249/08)

Ms C Ruane: The Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme (PRCS) Review Group was established for consultation with key stakeholders on the arrangements for compensating teachers retiring prematurely from April 2009 onwards. The Review Group comprises representatives of the Department, employers and teacher unions in both the schools and FE sectors. Its remit is to bring forward options for managing the costs of the PRCS in future.

The group met on 26 February 2008, 7 April 2008 and 25 June 2008. At the meeting on 25 June it was agreed that my Department would amend existing legislation to bring provisions for compensating teachers for premature retirement broadly into line with arrangements under the corresponding schemes in Scotland and in England and Wales. The Review Group will in the meantime continue to consider how such provisions may be applied consistently for the benefit of teachers and employers, and in the interests of economy and efficiency.

Tá beart déanta cheana lena chinntiú, ón bhliain airgeadais seo amach, go mbeidh na daoine sin atá freagrach as a shocrú go mbronnfar cúiteamh méadaithe as scor roimh am ("blianta breise"), freagrach fosta as na costais.

Action has already been taken to ensure that, from the current financial year, those who are responsible for decisions to award enhanced compensation for premature retirement ("added years") are also accountable for the costs. In the corresponding scheme in England and Wales, responsibility for the cost of added years was transferred to teachers’ employers in 1991. In 1997 employers became liable for all the costs associated with the scheme, including the additional cost of early payment of unreduced pension benefits.

Sports Facilities at Schools

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education to give her assessment of sports facilities in (i) Primary Schools; and (ii) Post Primary Schools.

(AQW 8250/08)

Ms C Ruane: There are no plans to carry out an audit of sports facilities in all schools.

Cuirtear áiseanna spóirt ar fáil ag scoileanna chun tacú le soláthar an churaclaim agus ar chomhairle na Cigireachta Oideachais agus Oiliúna.

Sports facilities are provided at schools to support the delivery of the curriculum and on the advice of the Education and Training Inspectorate.

Sports Facilities at Schools

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education if she will carry out an audit of sports facilities in all schools.

(AQW 8251/08)

Ms C Ruane: There are no plans to carry out an audit of sports facilities in all schools.

Cuirtear áiseanna spóirt ar fáil ag scoileanna chun tacú le soláthar an churaclaim agus ar chomhairle na Cigireachta Oideachais agus Oiliúna.

Sports facilities are provided at schools to support the delivery of the curriculum and on the advice of the Education and Training Inspectorate.

School Buses Provided by Translink

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education how many buses are provided by Translink on a daily basis for the purpose of transporting pupils attending (i) State Controlled primary schools; (ii) Catholic Maintained primary schools; (iii) Integrated primary schools; and (iv) Irish Medium primary schools, broken down by (a) Education and Library Board; and (b) school.

(AQW 8268/08)

Ms C Ruane: I have been informed by Translink that it does not hold the information in the format requested. Translink does not have a dedicated schools fleet but rather incorporates school transport provision into its stage carriage network.

Iompraíonn Translink tuairim is ar 65,000 dalta go dtí an scoil agus ar ais ar bhonn laethúil, agus cuirtear ar fáil 2,600 turas breise ar bharr ghnáthsheirbhísí amchláir le seo a chomhlíonadh.

Translink carries some 65,000 pupils to and from school on a daily basis, and 2,600 extra journeys are provided in addition to normal timetabled services to fulfil this.

School Buses Provided by Translink

Mrs I Robinson asked the Minister of Education how many buses are provided by Translink on a daily basis for the purpose of transporting pupils attending (i) State Controlled post-primary schools; (ii) Catholic Maintained post-primary schools; (iii) Integrated post-primary schools; and (iv) Irish Medium post-primary schools, broken down by (a) Education and Library Board; and (b) school.

(AQW 8269/08)

Translink carries some 65,000 pupils to and from school on a daily basis, and 2,600 extra journeys are provided in addition to normal timetabled services to fulfil this.

School Closures

Mr Gallagher asked the Minister of Education how many school closures have been announced since devolution; and in how many cases at primary and post-primary level, has the school cited difficulties in delivering the revised curriculum among the reasons for closure.

(AQW 8286/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ón chineachadh, fógraíodh druidim ocht scoil agus aon aonad bunscoile. Níor luaigh ceann ar bit de na scoileanna deacrachtaí i soláthar an churaclaim athbhreithnithe ar an cúiseanna le druidim.

Closures of eight schools and one unit of a primary school have been announced since devolution. None of the schools cited difficulties in delivering the revised curriculum among the reasons for closure.

Movilla High School

Miss McIlveen asked the Minister of Education what plans she has for maintaining and improving facilities at Movilla High School.

(AQW 8294/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Oirdheiscirt freagrach as cothabháil agus soláthar na n-oibreacha caipitiúla ag Ardscoil Mhaigh Bhile. Thug an Bord le fios dom gur cuireadh coire úr isteach le gairid; chosain an coire tuairim is £29,000 agus soláthróidh sé teas don halla spóirt. Tá sé de rún ag an Bhord na háiseanna a fheabhsú trí uasghrádú a dhéanamh ar na seomraí a úsáidtear le haghaidh eacnamaíocht bhaile; samhradh 2009 an sprioc-am atá i gceist.

The South Eastern Education and Library Board has responsibility for maintenance and the provision of capital works at Movilla High School. The Board has advised that a new boiler to serve the sports hall has just been installed at a cost of approximately £29,000. The Board plans to improve the facilities with an upgrade of the home economics accommodation, with a target date of summer 2009.

Statements of Special Educational Needs

Mrs D Kelly asked the Minister of Education how many pupils are currently awaiting a statement of special educational need.

(AQO 4020/08)

Ms C Ruane: Thug Príomhfheidhmeannaigh na mbord oideachais agus leabharlainne eolas dom faoin líon daltaí a ndearnadh measúnú reachtúil ar a riachtanais speisialta oideachais, faoin líon a measann na Boird ráiteas riachtanas speisialta oideachais a bheith de dhíth orthu, agus faoin líon atá ag fanacht lena ráiteas a bheith réidh. Seo leanas an líon:

I have been advised by the Chief Executives of the education and library boards that the number of pupils who have undergone a statutory assessment of their special educational needs, are considered by the Boards to require a statement of special educational needs, and who are currently awaiting completion of their statement is as follows:-

1. Belfast Education and Library Board - 21

2. North-Eastern Education and Library Board - 45

3. South-Eastern Education and Library Board - 42

4. Southern Education and Library Board - 124

5. Western Education and Library Board - 34

These figures represent those pupils on whom a statutory assessment of their special educational needs has been completed and who are currently awaiting either a proposed or final statement of special education needs.

Education and Library Board Underspend

Mr O'Dowd asked the Minister of Education to detail the underspend of each of the Education and Library Boards in the last three financial years.

(AQW 8312/08)

Ms C Ruane: The amount of resources which remained unspent for each of the Education and Library Boards in the last three financial years, are detailed in the table below. These include unspent resources in the Education & Library Boards themselves, schools and youth services.

£000s

	2005-06		2006-07		2007-08
Education & Library Board	Resource	Capital	Resource	Capital	Resource	Capital
BELB	2,251	757	7,858	2,245	6,785	1,902
NEELB	5,725	3	14,900	61	5,887	209
SEELB	2,071	21	6,963	95	7,349	97
SELB	7,878	1,191	17,852	2,425	7,572	1,030
WELB	9,432	378	20,680	870	6,857	479
TOTAL

D’aontaigh an Coiste Feidhmiúcháin socruithe Solúbthachta Dheireadh na Bliana in Aibreán 2008; cinntíonn na socruithe sin nach n-úsáidfear na hacmhainní seo ach i gcomhair oideachais sna blianta amach romhainn.

It should be noted that under the End Year Flexibility arrangements, agreed by the Executive in April 2008, these resources remain committed to education for use in subsequent years.

Teachers’ Added Years Scheme

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education what are the effects of the changes in resourcing of the teachers’ added years scheme on the implementation of Sustainable Schools’ Policy.

(AQW 8338/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ní bhaineann na hathruithe a rinneadh le gairid ar an Scéim Chúitimh le haghaidh Múinteoirí a Scoireann Roimh Am (PRCS) leis an Pholasaí um Scoileanna Inmharthana

Recent changes to the administration of the Teachers’ Premature Retirement Compensation Scheme (PRCS) are unconnected to Sustainable Schools Policy. Action has been taken to ensure that, from the current financial year, those who are responsible for decisions to award teachers enhanced compensation for premature retirement ("added years") are also accountable for the costs. In taking this action my Department is seeking to ensure that in future the level of discretionary compensation awarded to teachers is both affordable and appropriate in light of criticism by the House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts of the generous nature of the PRCS. While it is a matter for employing authorities to determine what compensation they are prepared to offer, the guiding principle should be the maximum economy consistent with effectiveness.

Permanent Teaching Posts

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Education how many qualified teachers who completed their training last year have yet to obtain a permanent teaching post in Northern Ireland.

(AQW 8339/08)

	(1) 2007/08
Graduate Records	801
Currently Registered	683
Currently Employed (see note 2)	187

Notes:

1. The year stated refers to the GTC Registration Year, i.e. 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2008.

2. "Currently Employed" includes teachers who are employed on a permanent or significant temporary basis (i.e. excludes substitute/supply teachers).

Tá iarrtha agam ar mo Roinn tuilleadh oibre a dhéanamh ar phatrúin fostaíochta mhac léinn ag baint céime amach as oideachas tosaigh múinteoireachta.

I have asked my Department to undertake further work on the employment patterns of students graduating from initial teacher education.

Permanent Teaching Posts

Mr Simpson asked the Minister of Education how many qualified teachers who completed their training in each of the last five years have yet to obtain a permanent teaching post in Northern Ireland six months after qualification.

(AQW 8340/08)

	(1) 2003/04	(1) 2004/05	(1) 2005/06	(1) 2006/07	(1) 2007/08
Graduate Records	705	792	816	807	801
Currently Registered	635	672	671	708	683
Currently Employed (see note 2)	535	490	413	337	187

Notes:

1. The years stated refer to the GTC Registration Year, i.e. 1 April to

31 March.

2. "Currently Employed" includes teachers who are employed on a permanent or significant temporary basis (i.e. excludes substitute/supply teachers).

Tá iarrtha agam ar mo Roinn tuilleadh oibre a dhéanamh ar phatrúin fostaíochta mhac léinn ag baint céime amach as oideachas tosaigh múinteoireachta.

I have asked my Department to undertake further work on the employment patterns of students graduating from initial teacher education.

Capital Scheme for Ballymacash Primary School

Mr Poots asked the Minister of Education what plans her Department has to provide a new teaching block at Ballymacash Primary School, Lisburn, and to remove the mobiles currently on site.

(AQW 8355/08)

Ms C Ruane: Baineann pleanáil eastát rialaithe na scoileanna le Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlainne an Oirdheiscirt ar an chéad dul síos. Níl aon phlean ann faoi láthair chun scéim chaipitil a bheith ann do Bhunscoil Ballymacash.

The planning of the controlled schools’ estate is a matter for the South Eastern Education and Library Board in the first instance. There are currently no plans for a capital scheme for Ballymacash Primary School.

Educational Provision and Facilities in Dromore, Co Down

Mr Poots asked the Minister of Education what plans her Department has to enhance the educational provision and facilities in Dromore, Co Down, to meet the needs of (i) pre-school; (ii) primary school; and (iii) post-primary school, education for children and young people aged between 3 and 18.

(AQW 8357/08)

Ms C Ruane: Pre-School

The Southern Education and Library Board are currently reviewing pre-school provision across the Board area, but has no specific plans relating to the Dromore area at this time.

(ii) Primary and (iii) Post Primary

There are no current major works proposals from the maintained or voluntary grammar sectors for the Dromore area.

Maidir leis an earnáil rialaithe, tá dhá scéim chaipitil á bpleanáil faoi láthair i gcomhair áitribh úra a thógáil do Lár-Bhunscoil an Droma Mhóir agus Ardscoil an Droma Mhóir.

In regard to the controlled sector, there are two capital schemes currently in planning for new school builds for Dromore Central Primary School and Dromore High School. A new school on a new site was approved for Dromore Central Primary School. The SELB has advised that the scheme is now progressing in planning, after some delay in acquiring the site. A capital scheme for Dromore High School is at Economic Appraisal stage. An appraisal was submitted to the Department in January 2008 and comments on the appraisal were provided to the SELB at the end of June.

Primary School Pupil Funding

Mr Elliott asked the Minister of Education the average amount spent per primary school pupil in each year since 2001-02.

(AQW 8375/08)

Ms C Ruane: The table below sets out the average funding per-pupil delegated to schools under Local Management of Schools arrangements in each of the last seven years. Further funding is allocated directly to Funding Authorities for a wide range of services, some which benefit all pupils while others are more specifically targeted.

Dá réir sin ní thig an maoiniú sin a chur i láthair ar bhonn dalta aonair.

Accordingly it is not possible to present that funding accurately on a per-pupil basis.

Primary School Sector	2001/02	2002/03	2003/04	2004/05	2005/06	2006/07	2007/08
Average amount Per Capita £	£1,890	£1,964	£2,126	£2,228	£2,442	£2,620	£2,741

Complaints Against Teachers

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education what mechanisms are in place to address complaints against teachers making inappropriate remarks related to prejudice.

(AQW 8428/08)

Ms C Ruane: Príomhoide agus Bord Gobharnóirí na scoile atá i gceist a bíos freagrach as fiosrú gearán in éadan múinteoirí.

Complaints against teachers are a matter for investigation by the Principal and Board of Governors of the school concerned. Following a preliminary investigation, if the complaint cannot be resolved informally, the Disciplinary Procedure for Teachers may be invoked. The Procedure was agreed by the employing authorities and the teacher unions through the Teacher Negotiating Committee to provide a fair, consistent process for dealing with alleged misconduct.

Post-Primary School Places

Dr Farry asked the Minister of Education further to her answers to AQO 3975/08 and AQW 7582/08, to clarify and reconcile the differing figures in relation to the number of children from the North Down constituency who are without a suitable place in a post-primary school for the forthcoming academic year.

(AQW 8429/08)

Ms C Ruane: The reason for the difference between the figures given in response to these two questions is essentially because the questions have been understood as asking about two different definitions of the area concerned: the "North Down" and the smaller "North Down Constituency". In AQO 3975/08 Peter Weir MLA asked me what action my Department was taking to ensure adequate provision for the intake of new pupils at secondary level "in North Down" in September 2008. In my answer I stated that there were, at that time, 45 unplaced children resident "in the area". These 45 unplaced children did not all reside in the North Down constituency: for example, included in their number were unplaced children residing in Newtownards and Dundonald (Strangford constituency) who were seeking admission to schools in North Down. This reflects a long tradition of children from the Strangford constituency attending schools in North Down and vice versa.

In Question AQW 7582/08 you asked me (i) how many; and (ii) what percentage of, P7 children attending schools specifically in the North Down constituency have not been allocated a place at a post-primary school for the 2008-09 academic year. In my answer I quoted a figure of 30 children (which equates to 3%). This figure is lower than the 45 figure previously given because it excludes those children resident outside the North Down constituency but who were included in the figure of 45 given for the number of unplaced children resident "in North Down".

Tá áit glactha ag cuid de na 45 pháiste i scoileanna malartacha anois; seo na páistí a bhfuil cónaí orthu i limistéar Thuaisceart an Dúin agus a liostáladh ar 10 Meitheamh 2008 mar dhaoine gan áit scoile.

Some of the 45 children resident in the North Down area who, on June 10, 2008, were counted as unplaced have now accepted places at alternative schools. The South Eastern Education and Library Board have advised the Department that the number of children resident in North Down who, on July 3, 2008, were unplaced was 11 with a further eight unplaced children resident outside the North Down constituency.

Pre-school Places in East Antrim

Mr Ross asked the Minister of Education how many pre-school places are available in nursery schools in the East Antrim constituency.

(AQW 8446/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá 390 áiteanna páirtaimseartha agus 234 áiteanna lánaimseartha ar fáil i naíscoileanna agus i mbunscoileanna a bhfuil aonaid naíolainne acu i dtoghcheantar Aontroma Thoir.

There are 390 part-time places and 234 full-time places available in nursery schools and primary schools with nursery units in the East Antrim constituency.

Increasing Fuel Costs

Mrs Long asked the Minister of Education what assessment she has made of the impact of the increase in (i) fuel costs; and (ii) fuel duty, on the departmental budget and the realisation of efficiency targets; and what action she has taken to mitigate against these increased costs.

(AQW 8451/08)

Ms C Ruane: In recognition of the impact of increasing fuel costs and fuel duty on the budget for education, a bid was submitted in the June Monitoring round for £7.5 million to cover the increased energy costs in schools. This bid was unsuccessful but the pressure on school budgets will be kept under review and a further bid will be made in subsequent Monitoring rounds, if necessary. In relation to the fuel costs for the running of the Department of Education, these are paid for by the Department of Finance and Personnel and therefore any increase in costs is a matter for them to address.

Níltear ag dúil go n-oibreoidh an méadú ar chostas agus ar dhleacht breosla tionchar ar chumas na Roinne na spriocanna éifeachtúlachta a leagadh amach i bpróiseas buiséid 2007 a shroicheadh.

It is not anticipated that the increase in fuel costs and fuel duty will have an impact on the Department’s ability to achieve the efficiency targets set in the 2007 Budget process.

Primary Languages Group

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education, pursuant to her answer to AQW 7500/08, if she will give details of the Primary Languages Group set up to manage and monitor the Primary Languages Programme, including the members' names and the education partners they represent, as well as their background in the two primary languages.

(AQW 8456/08)

Ms C Ruane: The regional Primary Modern Languages group consists of curricular advisors from the North-Eastern, South-Eastern, Southern and Belfast Education and Library Boards, a Field Officer from the Western Education and Library Board, an Assistant Advisor from the South-Eastern Education and Library Board and an Assistant Principal Officer from the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment. The group is chaired by an Assistant Senior Education Officer from the South Eastern Education and Library Board, and representation has been sought from the Higher Education Institutions.

In terms of background, group members bring educational expertise as well as a range of linguistic experience, including in Spanish and Irish. Specific language expertise in Spanish and Irish is drawn by the group from organisations such as the Spanish Embassy, Foras na Gaelige, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching and Research and Gael Linn.

Tuairiscíonn an grúpa ar bhonn rialta don Bhord Bainistíochta Páirtíochta (BBP) agus do mo Roinn. Tá an Chigireacht Oideachais agus Oiliúna fosta ag déanamh meastóireachta neamhspleáiche ar an chlár le linn na scoilbhliana 2008-09.

The group reports regularly to the Partnership Management Board (PMB) and my Department. The Education and Training Inspectorate is also carrying out an independent evaluation of the programme during the 2008-09 school year.

Pattern of Attendance

Mr Newton asked the Minister of Education how many nursery schools in the East Belfast constituency applied for additional places for the (i) 2008-09; and (ii) 2009-10, academic years; and to detail (a) the nursery schools that were refused additional places, and (b) the reasons for refusal.

(AQW 8463/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níor iarr aon naíscoil athrú sa phatrún freastail don bhliain acadúil 2008/09.

No nursery schools have requested a change in the pattern of attendance for the 2008/09 academic year.

One school, Braniel Primary School, has requested a change in pattern of attendance in their nursery unit from 1 full-time and 2 part-time classes to 2 full-time classes from 1 September 2009. This request is currently under consideration.

Independent Admissions Criteria

Mr Storey asked the Minister of Education when she became aware that it is legally permissible for schools to set their own independent admissions criteria in the absence of an agreed alternative.

(AQW 8487/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá faisnéis tugtha ag oifigigh domh ar impleachtaí gach gné den reachtaíocht a bhaineann le hiontráil go scoileanna ó thús mo thréimhse oifige.

I have been briefed by officials on the implications of all aspects of legislation governing school admissions from the beginning of my term of office.

Lisnadill Primary School

Mr Kennedy asked the Minister of Education for an update on the proposed extension works to Lisnadill Primary School for the provision of a new assembly hall and enhanced sports facilities and the timescale for this project.

(AQW 8505/08)

Ms C Ruane: Is mionscéim oibreacha atá ann agus dá bharr sin titeann sí faoi fhreagracht tharmligthe Bhord Oideachais agus Leabharlann an Deiscirt (BOLOD).

This is a minor works scheme and as such falls within the delegated responsibility of the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB).

I understand from the Chief Executive of the SELB that preliminary design drawings for the extension, comprising a multi-purpose hall and other ancillary accommodation, have been agreed with the school principal and that an outline planning application has been made.

Biometric Systems

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education how many schools in each Education and Library Board area use biometric systems in the administration of (a) school meals (b) school libraries.

(AQW 8515/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

SCHOOL MEALS SCHOOL LIBRARIES

BELB 0 1

NEELB 0 0

SEELB 0 4

SELB 2 Not Available

WELB 3 Not Available¹

Schools must comply with the Data Protection Act 1998 in using biometric systems. Biometric data must be treated just like any other personal data under the terms of the Act. Guidance for schools on the introduction of biometric systems is available on the Department’s website www.deni.gov.uk .

All systems are password protected and only permitted staff will have access. The majority of schools use fingerprint data, where a user has their fingerprint scanned, converted into digital data and recorded. The image of the fingerprint is not held on the system and cannot be regenerated from the digital data.

At the end of each school year, a complete upgrade is carried out when all school leavers will have all their biometric details deleted from the system and new intakes added.

Administration of School Meals

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education how many schools in each Education and Library Board area still use paper lunch tickets/passes in the administration of school meals.

(AQW 8516/08)

Ms C Ruane: Ní choinníonn an Roinn eolas ar líon na scoileanna i ngach Bord Oideachais agus Leabharlann atá ag úsáid ticéid/pasanna lóin go fóill de bharr nach mbaineann an t-ábhar sin ach leis na scoileanna iad féin.

The Department does not hold information on the number of schools in each Education and Library Board who are still operating lunch tickets/passes as this is a matter for individual schools.

The Belfast Board has confirmed that paper tickets have been withdrawn from their primary schools. The North-Eastern Board no longer issue paper tickets to schools as they operate a register system, but some of their schools may be operating a pass system. The Southern Board has confirmed that there are 9 primary schools and 25 post-primary schools who still use paper lunch tickets/passes. The South-Eastern and Western Boards do not hold figures on the number of schools who are still operating paper ticketing systems.

Biometric Systems

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education how the Department ensures the security of biometric information on pupils stored in schools.

(AQW 8517/08)

Ms C Ruane:

Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

SCHOOL MEALS SCHOOL LIBRARIES

BELB 0 1

NEELB 0 0

SEELB 0 4

SELB 2 Not Available

WELB 3 Not Available¹

At the end of each school year, a complete upgrade is carried out when all school leavers will have all their biometric details deleted from the system and new intakes added.

Biometric Systems

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education how and when schools dispose of biometric information on pupils.

(AQW 8518/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

SCHOOL MEALS SCHOOL LIBRARIES

BELB 0 1

NEELB 0 0

SEELB 0 4

SELB 2 Not Available

WELB 3 Not Available¹

At the end of each school year, a complete upgrade is carried out when all school leavers will have all their biometric details deleted from the system and new intakes added.

Free School Meals

Mr D Bradley asked the Minister of Education for her assessment of whether the cafeteria system in schools leads pupils on free school meals to overspend on the daily allowance.

(AQW 8519/08)

Ms C Ruane: Níl aon fhianaise ag an Roinn go dtugann córas caifé ar bhonn airgead tirim ar dhaltaí atá i dteideal béilte scoile saor in aisce chun róchaithimh.

The Department has no evidence that a cash cafeteria system leads pupils entitled to free school meals to overspend. All free school meals pupils can obtain a nutritionally balanced 2 course meal in a cash cafeteria for the current free school meal allowance. It is only when they choose additional items that a charge is made.

Extended Schools Programme

Mr Beggs asked the Minister of Education how much money has been offered to each school under Extended Schools Funding for 2008-09, broken down by parliamentary constituency; and how this compares to funding allocated to each school for 2007-08.

(AQW 8559/08)

Ms C Ruane: Tá an t-eolas a iarradh mionsonraithe sa tábla faoi iamh.

The information requested is detailed in the attached table.

DENI REF	SCHOOL NAME	PARLIAMENTARY CONSTITUENCY	2007/08	2008/09
	NURSERY SCHOOLS
1110002	MCARTHUR NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	8,200	1,270
1116074	GLENDHU NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	5,600	1,010
1116158	RAVENSCROFT NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	8,200	1,270
1116160	SANDBROOK NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	9,545	1,461
4116216	KING'S ROAD NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	9,430	1,461
4116240	CASTLEREAGH NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	8,200	1,270
1110003	EDENDERRY NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	9,430	7,112
1110007	GLENBANK NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	6,440	1,162
1110025	TUDOR LODGE NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	9,430	7,112
1110028	BREFNE NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	0	5,656
1110036	NEW LODGE NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	9,430	7,112
1116011	VICTORIA NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	6,440	5,656
1116157	STANHOPE STREET NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	8,200	1,270
1116159	OLDPARK NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	8,200	7,112
1136229	ST MARY'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	8,300	1,280
1136230	HOLY FAMILY NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	8,200	1,270
1136251	OUR LADY'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	9,430	1,461
1136360	HOLY CROSS NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST NORTH	9,430	7,112
1110001	ARELLIAN NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST SOUTH	8,200	7,112
1130027	BETHLEHEM NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST SOUTH	4,100	0
1110038	SHAFTESBURY NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	1,461
1116155	HOPE NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
1136106	ST MARTIN'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,545	7,112
1136228	ST BERNADETTE'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
1136302	ST PAUL'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,056
1136314	ST TERESA'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	1,472
1136315	ST MICHAEL'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	1,461
1136316	HOLY CHILD NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	1,461
1136340	ST PETER'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
1136349	MATT TALBOT NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,545	7,112
1136353	ST MARIA GORETTI NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
1136383	ST OLIVER PLUNKETT NURSERY SCH	BELFAST WEST	8,100	7,112
1136603	THE CATHEDRAL NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
4136368	ST LUKE'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,168
4136481	ST KIERAN'S NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
4136606	ST THERESE NURSERY SCHOOL	BELFAST WEST	9,430	7,112
3136332	ST ANTHONY'S NURSERY SCHOOL	EAST ANTRIM	9,430	1,461
2116628	LIMAVADY NURSERY SCHOOL	EAST DERRY	9,430	1,449
3116215	KYLEMORE NURSERY SCHOOL	EAST DERRY	9,373	1,438
3116263	BALLYSALLY NURSERY SCHOOL	EAST DERRY	8,510	7,112
5116198	FIVEMILETOWN NURSERY SCHOOL	FERMANAGH & SOUTH TYRONE	6,670	1,173
2116023	THE ACADEMY NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,603	1,484
2116232	STRATHFOYLE NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,545	1,461
2116266	BLIGH'S LANE NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,660	7,280
2116267	CARNHILL NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,430	1,461
2116336	GALLIAGH NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,430	7,224
2116345	BELMONT NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,545	1,484
2116348	TRENCH ROAD NURSERY SCHOOL	FOYLE	9,430	1,461
4116018	BARBOUR NURSERY SCHOOL	LAGAN VALLEY	8,200	1,270
4136286	GOOD SHEPHERD NURSERY SCHOOL	LAGAN VALLEY	9,545	7,168
4136317	HOLY TRINITY NURSERY SCHOOL	LAGAN VALLEY	9,660	1,461
3116177	MAGHERAFELT NURSERY SCHOOL	MID ULSTER	12,420	1,760
5110017	RAILWAY STREET NURSERY SCHOOL	NEWRY AND ARMAGH	6,555	2,828
5136342	ST MALACHY'S NURSERY SCHOOL	NEWRY AND ARMAGH	8,200	7,112
3110037	BALLYMENA NURSERY SCHOOL	NORTH ANTRIM	7,400	1,205
3116165	DUNCLUG NURSERY SCHOOL	NORTH ANTRIM	8,400	1,275
3116162	MOSSLEY NURSERY SCHOOL	SOUTH ANTRIM	8,200	1,270
3116220	BALLYCLARE NURSERY SCHOOL	SOUTH ANTRIM	12,363	1,765
3136183	ST JOSEPH'S NURSERY SCHOOL	SOUTH ANTRIM	9,430	1,461
4116176	DOWNPATRICK NURSERY SCHOOL	SOUTH DOWN	6,440	1,162
4136211	ST COLMCILLE'S NURSERY SCHOOL	SOUTH DOWN	9,430	1,461
4136212	ST PATRICK'S CONVENT NURSERY	SOUTH DOWN	9,430	1,461
5116197	KILKEEL NURSERY SCHOOL	SOUTH DOWN	9,430	1,461
4110035	NEWTOWNARDS NURSERY SCHOOL	STRANGFORD	8,200	1,270
4116307	GLENBROOK NURSERY SCHOOL	STRANGFORD	9,430	1,461
5116189	MILLINGTON NURSERY SCHOOL	UPPER BANN	9,545	1,472
5136217	ST JOHN THE BAPTIST NURSERY	UPPER BANN	9,430	1,461
5136631	DRUMNAMOE NURSERY SCHOOL	UPPER BANN	8,300	1,270
2116333	BALLYCOLMAN NURSERY SCHOOL	WEST TYRONE	9,430	1,438
	PRIMARY SCHOOLS
1010146	EUSTON STREET PS	BELFAST EAST	26,680	16,030
1010231	STRAND PRIMARY SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	24,150	13,160
1010255	ELMGROVE PS	BELFAST EAST	33,891	20,888
1010269	AVONIEL PS	BELFAST EAST	22,540	13,706
1010271	BEECHFIELD PS	BELFAST EAST	15,813	9,800
1010289	SYDENHAM INFANTS PS	BELFAST EAST	16,503	10,892
1013018	KNOCKNAGONEY PS	BELFAST EAST	15,100	11,102
1016242	DUNDELA INFANTS SCHOOL	BELFAST EAST	0	16,205
1036505	ST MATTHEW'S PS	BELFAST EAST	29,411	17,395
4011632	CREGAGH PS	BELFAST EAST	21,419	13,034
4011657	LISNASHARRAGH PS	BELFAST EAST	21,850	2,513
4013038	TULLYCARNET PS	BELFAST EAST	15,554	9,128
1010063	CURRIE PS	BELFAST NORTH	16,589	10,766
1010266	SEAVIEW PS	BELFAST NORTH	29,153	8,418
1010282	CARR'S GLEN PS	BELFAST NORTH	29,871	17,794
1010283	GROVE PS	BELFAST NORTH	15,295	9,464
1010296	BALLYGOLAN PS	BELFAST NORTH	14,800	10,850
1010323	EDENBROOKE PS	BELFAST NORTH	22,195	13,160
1010325	LIGONIEL PS	BELFAST NORTH	15,295	10,304
1010831	CAVEHILL PS	BELFAST NORTH	0	18,529
1016076	BALLYSILLAN PS	BELFAST NORTH	17,796	11,270
1016483	CLIFTONVILLE PS	BELFAST NORTH	21,074	12,782
1016485	GLENWOOD PS	BELFAST NORTH	33,753	20,587
1016532	WHEATFIELD PS	BELFAST NORTH	20,729	13,118
1016537	LOWWOOD PS	BELFAST NORTH	24,840	14,945
1016647	BUNSCOIL MHIC REACHTAIN	BELFAST NORTH	9,500	8,176
1030194	HOLY CROSS BOYS' PS	BELFAST NORTH	30,705	18,424
1030326	OUR LADY'S GIRLS' PS	BELFAST NORTH	30,360	17,731
1030329	EDMUND RICE (CB) PS	BELFAST NORTH	30,274	17,857
1030331	HOLY CROSS GIRLS' PS	BELFAST NORTH	19,435	11,858
1036041	MERCY PS	BELFAST NORTH	25,588	14,875
1036042	ST VINCENT DE PAUL PS	BELFAST NORTH	23,690	14,420
1036048	ST MARY'S STAR OF THE SEA PS	BELFAST NORTH	18,100	12,446
1036464	STAR OF THE SEA GIRLS' PS	BELFAST NORTH	29,814	17,430
1036471	SACRED HEART PS

Primary		Post-Primary		Both
Primary	Nursery	Grammar	Secondary	Peripatetic*	Special*
975	90	157	738	18	186
1065		895		204

Monday 04 August 2008

Written Answers to Questions

Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister

Hate Crime

Sexual Orientation Strategy

Sexual Orientation Strategy

Post-Primary Transfer Arrangements

Post-Primary Transfer Arrangements

Employment Opportunities for People with Learning Disabilities

Representation in EU Structures

Date

Details

Definition of Cohesion

Definition of Sharing

Definition of Integration

Programme of Cohesion, Sharing and Integration

Painting of Flags and Kerbstones

Deprivation and Segregation Linkage in Society

Relocation of Revenue and Customs Jobs

Halloween Bonfire Complaints

Equality Legislation and the Right to Religious Expression

Planning Appeals Commission

Year

03/04

04/05

05/06

06/07

07/08

111

261

250

416

35

Changing Times Stormont Magazine

2008 Belfast Gay Pride Parade

Emerald Fund

Emerald Fund

Emerald Fund

Planning Appeals

Cost of Living Sub-Committee

Mixed Workplaces

Mixed Workplaces

Mixed Workplaces

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Land and Property Vested at the Maze Site

Agriculture and Rural Development

Bio-Fuel Production

Flood Defence Programme

Rural White Paper

Cycle Trail at Cairn Wood

Cycle Trail at Cairn Wood

Rural Childcare Opportunities in Northern Ireland

Local Postal Services

Grants to Assist the Farming Community

Safety on Farms

Development Service of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise

Damage to Wind Turbines

Sale of Crossnacreevy site

Crossnacreevy Site Devaluation

Crossnacreevy Site Valuation and Farmers' Grants

Pig Producers

Pig Meat Imports

TABLE A- PIG MEAT IMPORTED DIRECT FROM THIRD COUNTRIES.

TABLE B- UK PIG MEAT IMPORTS

Red Meat Imports

TABLE A –RED MEAT IMPORTED DIRECTLY FROM THIRD COUNTRIES

TABLE B- UK BEEF IMPORTS

Sale of Red Meat

Loughs Agency Employees

Loughs Agency Employees

Loughs Agency Employees

Culture, Arts and Leisure

Paramilitary Murals

Paramilitary Murals

Promoting Interest in Genealogy

Bookstart Scheme

Northern Ireland Events Company