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Office of the First Minister and Deputy
First Minister Brussels Office Agriculture and Rural Development Marketing of Agricultural Produce Education Children With Hearing Impairment Environment Historic Buildings Grant Aid Finance and Personnel Ministerial Transport Health, Social Services and Public Safety Action Against Drugs Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment New Deal Programme Regional Development Aluminium Levels Social Development Domestic Energy Efficiency Scheme Assembly Commission Assembly Questions WRITTEN ANSWERS Friday 22 September 2000 OFFICE OF THE FIRST
MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER Sarah's Law Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister are they aware of Campaign for
a "Sarah's Law" and what measures, if any, the Executive is taking to implement
a programme that will effectively protect children from sex offenders. (AQW 31/00) The First Minister and Deputy First
Minister (Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon): We are aware of the campaign for the
introduction of "Sarah’s Law" which would give parents access to a
register of sex offenders. Legislation in this area remains a reserved matter
and is thus the responsibility of the Secretary of State. In Northern Ireland, a number of Departments
are involved in the provision and documentation of guidance on dealing with
sex offenders. The Inter-Agency Sex Offender Steering
Group has recently approved a manual of guidance on the "Assessment and
Management of Risk of Sex Offenders". Implementation of the manual, which
largely formalises procedures which are already in place, will be taken forward
from next month. The Department of Education has advised
all schools to include, within their pastoral care curriculum, self-protection
programmes for pupils, and guidance on the content of these has been widely
circulated. Further, the Departments of Education and Health, Social Services
and Public Safety, together with the Northern Ireland Office are working with
UK Government Departments and the other devolved administrations, to introduce
a reciprocal mechanism for preventing unsuitable people from working with children.
This development is also being pursued with colleagues from the Departments
of Education and Science and Health in Dublin under the auspices of the North-South
Ministerial Council Education Sectoral joint working group on child protection. Northern Ireland Economic Council Dr Esmond Birnie asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail the staff complement
of the Northern Ireland Economic Council, any current vacancies on the staff
of that body and the planned process of recruitment. (AQW 52/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
Northern Ireland Economic Council has a staff complement of nine. This consists
of five professional staff and four administrative/clerical staff. Currently there are three professional
staff in post, one on a career break and one post – that of the director- vacant.
An existing member of staff is carrying out the duties of the director. The
appointment of a new director will take place after a review of the Northern
Ireland Economic Council has been undertaken this year. The filling of two administrative/ clerical
vacancies is currently in progress. Executive Sub Committees Mr Kieran McCarthy asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what plans exist regarding the
establishment of Executive Sub Committees on cross Departmental issues. (AQO 27/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
Executive Committee is established under Section 20 of the Northern Ireland
Act 1998, which states that the Executive Committee should consist of the First
Minister, the Deputy First Minister and the Northern Ireland Ministers.
Paragraph 19 of Strand One of the Belfast
Agreement states that the Executive Committee will provide a forum for the discussion
of, and agreement on, issues which cut across the responsibilities of two or
more Ministers. There is no specific provision for sub-Committees
within the legislation, but this would not preclude them being set up if it
is deemed a more effective way of handling particular items of Executive business. We recognise the need for Ministers to
work cross-Departmentally from time to time to ensure policies are handled in
a coherent strategic fashion. The Executive Committee has had one formal sub-committee
on flags. It has also approved an inter-departmental sub-committee on drugs.
Within the context of the Programme for
Government, the Executive Committee will be examining how best to address cross-departmental
issues. North/South Ministerial Council Mr Peter Robinson asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to indicate the number of meetings
of an official nature all Northern Ireland Ministers have had with Ministers
in the Republic of Ireland. (AQO 29/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: In the
two periods of devolved administration since 2 December 1999, there have been
a total of thirty meetings of an official nature between Northern Ireland Ministers
and Ministers from the Republic of Ireland. Of these, fourteen meetings were
under the auspices of the North/South Ministerial Council, including the inaugural
plenary that was held in Armagh in December 1999. Brussels Office Mr Sean Neeson asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister if a statement will be made
on progress towards establishing a European Office for Northern Ireland in Brussels. (AQO 28/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
Executive Committee has agreed to set up an Office of the Executive in Brussels
and work is proceeding on its establishment. The fitting out of the office premises
will commence as soon as the normal procurement procedures for contracting work
have been completed. The process of selecting the staff for the Office is already
underway. We would expect the office to be functioning in about three month’s
time. The Office of the Executive will provide
a European contact point for Ministers and their departments. The staff of the
Office will be members of the UK Permanent Representation, giving them access
to meetings and to a level of information which they would not otherwise have.
Having separate premises will provide a focal point for Northern Ireland in
Brussels, helping us to develop a distinct and positive profile within the EU. Equality Commission Mr Edwin Poots asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to provide details of the current
religious composition of the Equality Commission. (AQO 11/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
appointment of members of the Equality Commission is a reserved matter. The
composition of the Commission is therefore a matter for the Secretary of State. AGRICULTURE
AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT Rural Development Programme Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Agriculture and Rural Development what measures she has put in place to address
the Northern Ireland Audit Report, "The Rural Development Programme" (NIA 19)
and if she will make a statement. (AQW 35/00) The Minister of Agriculture and Rural
Development (Ms Rodgers): I welcome the breadth of the Northern Ireland
Audit Office report on the Rural Development Programme and recognise the importance
of learning lessons from what has been done before and the value of the NIAO
report in highlighting those lessons. The Department is addressing the main
concerns identified by the NIAO. Following publication of the report,
the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Assembly has decided to take evidence
from the Departmental Accounting Officer at a hearing scheduled for 25 October
2000. After the hearing the PAC will produce a report with recommendations which
the Department will respond to. These recommendations will be taken fully into
account in preparing for the next Rural Development Programme which will come
on stream early in 2001. Marketing of Agricultural Produce Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Agriculture and Rural Development if she plans to implement any of the recommendations
made by the Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development in its report, "Retailing
in Northern Ireland - A Fair Deal for Farmers" (1/99/R) and if she will make
a statement. (AQW 53/00) Ms Rodgers: This report contained
Recommendations directed at all links in the food marketing chain, as well as
the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Department
of the Environment. With regard to those Recommendations directed at my Department,
I was pleased to be able to confirm in my reply to the Committee that in most
cases, DARD was already taking forward a range of initiatives aimed at addressing
the underlying issues and concerns. Particular examples include our work in
encouraging collaboration in the marketing of agricultural produce, the promotion
of partnerships in the food chain, supporting marketing initiatives and quality
assurance programmes, encouraging local sourcing and our significant research
and development and technology transfer commitments. Children With Hearing Impairment Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Education to outline what provisions are available at grammar schools for
children with hearing impairment. (AQW 43/00) The Minister of Education (Mr McGuinness):
Children with a hearing impairment are assessed following the 5-stage approach
of the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice in the same way as children
with any other form of learning difficulty, and where necessary a Statement
of Special Educational Needs is made for them setting out the special provision
they require. A number of hearing impaired children
attend mainstream schools (including grammar schools) and may have additional
teaching from an Education and Library Board peripatetic teacher of the hearing
impaired and/or the services of a classroom assistant, in accordance with the
provision specified in their Statement. Other children attend special education
units for the hearing impaired attached to local primary and secondary schools
and some attend Jordanstown Special School (for pupils with hearing or visual
impairment), Newtownabbey. A few children attend special schools for the hearing
impaired in Great Britain or the Republic of Ireland, and some attend Mary Hare
Grammar School for the hearing impaired, Newbury, Berkshire. Over the next few months my Department,
in conjunction with the Education and Library Boards’ Special Educational Needs
Regional Strategy Group, will be considering what other options might be possible
for the more academically gifted hearing impaired pupils. Without wishing to
pre-empt these deliberations, the option of attendance at Mary Hare Grammar
School will remain, where the Board is satisfied that such a placement would
best meet the pupil’s needs and is consistent with the efficient use of resources. Roadside Vehicle Checks Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment how many roadside checks with regard to the enforcement of
transport licensing will be carried out annually in respect of (a) goods vehicles,
(b) taxis, and (c) omnibuses. (AQW 46/00) The Minister of the Environment (Mr
Foster): The Department carries out vehicle checks at the roadside, at the
Department’s weighbridge sites and at operator’s premises. Separate figures
for these locations are not available as these are determined by operational
considerations during the course of the year. It is expected that the following
total number of vehicle checks will be carried out in the year ending 31 March
2001:- (a) goods vehicles – 175 operations
checking a minimum of 20,000 vehicles; (b) taxis – 120 operations checking
a minimum of 1800 taxis; (c) omnibuses – 45 operations checking
a minimum of 800 buses. Roadside Vehicle Checks Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment with regard to the enforcement of transport licensing how
many weighbridge operations will be carried out annually in respect of (a) goods
vehicles, (b) taxis, and (c) omnibuses. (AQW 47/00) Mr Foster: The Department carries
out vehicle checks at the roadside, at the Department’s weighbridge sites and
at operator’s premises. Separate figures for these locations are not available
as these are determined by operational considerations during the course of the
year. It is expected that the following total number of vehicle checks will
be carried out in the year ending 31 March 2001:- (a) goods vehicles – 175 operations
checking a minimum of 20,000 vehicles; (b) taxis – 120 operations checking
a minimum of 1800 taxis; (c) omnibuses – 45 operations checking
a minimum of 800 buses. Tachograph Inspections Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment how many tachograph inspections will be carried out annually
(a) at the roadside and (b) at operators' premises. (AQW 48/00) Mr Foster: During the year ending 31 March 2001,
the Department expects to carry out the following numbers of tachograph inspections. (a) at the roadside – 4,000 charts (b) at operators' premises – 7,000 charts Tachograph Inspections Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment to outline the arrangements to provide balanced geographic
distribution of tachograph inspections across Northern Ireland. (AQW 49/00) Mr Foster: The Department’s enforcement
staff and the police carry out tachograph inspections throughout Northern Ireland.
The number and distribution of tachograph inspections form part of an operational
strategy aimed at ensuring operators throughout Northern Ireland receive equitable
treatment. The geographic distribution of checks is determined by operational
considerations and are a combination of routine roadside and weighbridge operations
and inspections at operators' premises. Inspections are also carried out in
response to information received from haulage industry representatives. Planning and Scientific Staff Mr Sean Neeson asked the Minister
of the Environment what action he is taking to fill vacancies for professional
staff in the Planning Service and the Environment and Heritage Service. (AQO 16/00) Mr Foster: I am glad to be able
to tell the Assembly that I have obtained significant financial resources to
enable the recruitment of 47 professional planning staff and 43 mainly scientific
staff to the Planning Service and the Environment and Heritage Service respectively.
The recruitment process is now underway and 24 posts have been filled. Historic Buildings Grant Aid Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister
of the Environment when the moratorium on accepting applications for grant-aid
for historic building schemes will be lifted and if there has been any developments
on providing funding for these schemes. (AQO 10/00) Mr Foster: Within present resource
allocations, my Department intends to accept new applications in 2001-2002 under
a revised grants policy. However, grant payments for these new applications
may not be released until the following financial year, 2002-2003. Discussions on the level of funding for
the historic buildings grant scheme are continuing in the context of the 2000
Spending Review. I am not in a position to anticipate the outcome of those discussions. Railways Task Force Report Mr Arthur Doherty asked the Minister
of the Environment if he will give consideration to the findings of the Railways
Task Force in its Report "The Rail Debate", and those in the submission of The
Northern Corridor Railways Groups; and thereby promote the substantial environmental
and road safety benefits as part of an integrated transport strategy for Northern
Ireland. (AQO 33/00) Mr Foster: The then Minister for
Regional Development commissioned The Railways Task Force Report. Officials
from my Department have been involved in providing information on a number of
environmental issues to assist in the production of the Report. I am aware that the Regional Development
Committee received a presentation giving an overview of the findings of the
Task Force on Wednesday 13 September. I look forward to seeing the full report
and technical assessment in due course Ministerial Transport Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 689/99, to confirm the level of public
expenditure on ministerial transport arrangements for the Minister of Health
and Minister of Education. (AQW 29/00) The Minister of Finance and Personnel
(Mr Durkan): The Department of Finance and Personnel is not responsible
for the provision of official transport for the Minister of Health and the Minister
of Education. Information on the cost of public expenditure in respect of their
transport arrangements should be obtained from the Departments concerned. HEALTH, SOCIAL SERVICES
AND PUBLIC SAFETY Acute Hospital Services Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when she expects to receive the
report from the working group investigating future acute hospital provision
in Northern Ireland and if she will make a statement. (AQW 14/00) The Minister of Health, Social Services
and Public Safety (Ms de Brún): I have asked the review group to
report to me at the end of February 2001. I decided to establish the review
group because I wanted to take a fresh look at the complex issues that are involved
in acute hospital services. The review group will give me independent, objective
and informed advice which will help to guide the strategic development of hospital
services in the 21st century. D’iarr mé ar an ghrúpa
athbhreithnithe tuarascáil a chur chugam faoi dheireadh Feabhra 2001.
Chinn mé ar an ghrúpa athbhreithnithe a bhunú mar gur mhaith
liom breathnú athuair ar na ceisteanna casta a bhaineann le seirbhísí
géarmhíochaine ospidéal. Tabharfaidh an grúpa athbhreithnithe
comhairle eolach, neamhspleách, oibiachtúil dom a chuideoidh linn
forbairt straitéiseach a dhéanamh ar na seirbhísí
ospidéal san 21ú haois. Ulster Hospital Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what conclusions have been reached
in regard to the strategic development of the Ulster (HSS Trust). (AQW 22/00) Ms de Brún: The need for
strategic development at the Ulster Hospital is recognised but no final conclusions
have been reached to date. A meeting between senior officials and management
of the Trust to consider a strategic and prioritised approach to development
of the hospital is due to take place on 25 September 2000. Plans for redevelopment
of the hospital will need to take account of the outcome of the recent Eastern
Health and Social Services Board proposals on the organisation of hospital services
as well as the wider review of acute hospital services which is now underway
and the availability of resources. Aithnítear go bhfuil forbairt
straitéiseach de dhíth in Ospidéal Uladh ach níor
thángthas ar aon chinneadh deireanach go dtí seo. Tá cruinniú
le bheith ann idir feidhmeannaigh shinsearacha agus lucht bainistíochta
an Iontaobhais ar an 25 Méan Fómhair le cur chuige a leagann béim
ar straitéisí agus ar thosaíochtaí a breithniú.
Caithfear na nithe seo a leanas a chur san áireamh sna pleananna le haghaidh
athfhorbairt an ospidéil: an toradh a bheas ar mholtaí Bhord Sláinte
agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta an Oirthir a fuarthas ar na mallaibh
agus, lena chois sin, an t-athbhreithniú ginearálta ar sheirbhísí
géarmhíochaine ospidéal atá ar siúl anois
agus na hacmhainní atá ar fáil. Ulster Hospital Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail meetings her officials
have had with the Ulster Community & Hospitals HSS Trust. (AQW 23/00) Ms de Brún: Meetings between
officials and HSS Trusts take place on an ongoing basis. Since the Executive
Committee was re-established on 31 May 2000 the following meetings have been
held between DHSSPS officials and representatives of the Ulster Community &
Hospitals HSS Trust:- Seven meetings to discuss the Information
Technology needs of the Trust have been held with staff from the Directorate
of Information Systems; One meeting to discuss the Trust’s general
capital provision was held on 29 August 2000. Bíonn cruinnithe ann go leanúnach
idir feidhmeannaigh agus na hIontaobhais SSS. Is mar seo a leanas a bhí
na cruinnithe idir feidhmeannaigh na RSSSSP agus ionadaithe Iontaobhas Phobal
agus Ospidéal Uladh óna athbhunaíodh an Coiste Feidhmiúchán
ar an 31 Bealtaine 2000: Bhí seacht gcruinniú ann
idir an tIontaobhas agus baill foirne ó Stiúrthóireacht
na gCóras Eolais; Bhí cruinniú amháin
ann ar an 29 Lúnasa 2000 le soláthar ginearálta caipitiúil
an Iontaobhais a phlé Ulster Hospital Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if she considers the capital investment
at the Ulster Hospital to be on a par with the Royal Victoria Hospitals, Mater,
Altnagelvin and Belfast City Hospitals. (AQW 25/00) Ms de Brún: The major redevelopment
programmes agreed some years ago for other main acute hospital sites, including
the Royal Hospitals and Altnagelvin Hospital, have been taken forward following
a detailed examination of the options, costs and benefits of a range of solutions
in each case. It is clear that strategic development
also needs to embrace the Ulster Hospital site and my Department is now working
with the Ulster Community and Hospitals Trust to draw its current proposals
together. When a redevelopment plan with costs and implementation programme
has been agreed, I will look at the issues of funding and timetable, in the
light of the resources available to me. I ndiaidh mionscrúdú a
dhéanamh ar na roghanna, ar na costais agus ar na buntáistí
i ngach cás maidir le réimse réiteach, cuireadh chun tosaigh
na cláir mhóra forbartha, ar aontaíodh orthu roinnt blianta
ó shin, do na príomhospidéil ghéarmhíochaine
eile, agus na hOpidéil Ríoga agus Ospidéal Alt na nGealbhan
san áireamh. Is léir go gcaithfear Ospidéal
Uladh a chur san áireamh fosta san fhorbairt straitéiseach agus
tá mo Roinnse ag obair i gcomhar le hIontaobhas Phobal agus Ospidéal
Uladh chun a chuid moltaí a tharraingt le chéile. Nuair a bheifear
i ndiaidh aontú ar phlean athfhorbartha agus ar chlár lena chur
i ngníomh, breathnóidh mé féin ar na ceisteanna
a bhainfidh le maoiniú agus leis an chlár ama, i bhfianaise na
n-acmhainní a bheas ar fáil agam. Smoking Related Deaths Mr Ivan Davis asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many deaths have occurred in
the past three years, in each Health Board Area, as a result of smoking related
illnesses or disease. (AQW 26/00) Ms de Brún: The number
of deaths occurring as a result of smoking related illnesses or disease for
each of the three years from 1996 to 1998, the latest year for which such information
is available, is as follows:- Smoking related deaths HSS BOARD
1996
1997
1998
Eastern
1331
1328
1229
Northern
648
623
656
Southern
446
432
469
Western
438
409
391
Total
2863
2792
2745
Is mar seo a leanas atá líon
na mbásanna de bharr tinneas nó galar, a raibh baint ag caitheamh
tobac leo, a tharla gach bliain ó 1996 go 1998 arb í an bhliain
is déanaí í a bhfuil eolas den chineál seo againn:- Básanna de bharr Caitheamh Tobac
Action Against Drugs Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in pursuance of AQW 769/99, if the Minister has any plans to meet with the chief of the RUC's Anti Drugs Unit to discuss plans to combat drug abuse in Northern Ireland. (AQW 30/00) Ms de Brún: I have no plans to meet with the chief of the RUC’s Anti Drugs Unit. Work on the measures to combat drug abuse is being taken forward under the aegis of the Central Co-ordinating Group for Action Against Drugs. This group comprises senior representatives from a wide range of departments and agencies, including the RUC and I receive regular reports on its work. The measures being taken involve many different groups and agencies, including those in the fields of health and social services and education, as well as many doing important work at community level. Níl pleananna ar bith agam cruinniú a bheith agam le ceannaire Aonad Frith-Dhrugaí an RUC. Tá an obair ar bhearta in éadan mí-úsáid drugaí á cur chun cinn faoi choimirce an Lárghrúpa Comhordaithe um Ghníomhaíocht in éadan Drúgaí. Is é atá sa ghrúpa seo ionadaithe sinsearacha ó réimse leathan ranna agus gníomhaireachtaí agus an RUC san áireamh. Bíonn a lán grúpaí agus gníomhaireachtaí páirteach sna bearta seo, is é sin, iad siúd atá sna réimsí sláinte, oideachais agus seirbhísí sóisialta, chomh maith leo siúd a bhfuil obair thábhachtach ar siúl acu i measc an phobail. Cryptosporidium Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, to confirm the date on which the affected communities were alerted to the recent cryptosporidium outbreak, to detail what steps were taken to reduce the level of risk faced by vulnerable members of the population and to explain what steps have been taken to improve the arrangements for notifying the public is such circumstances. (AQW 38/00) Ms de Brún: The recent cryptosporidium outbreak has affected the populations served by the Poleglass and neighbouring Northern Service reservoirs. Elderly patients and those with severe medical conditions in the area served by Poleglass reservoir were advised on 25 August to boil their water before drinking - a precautionary measure in advance of the cause of the outbreak being established. The same day General Practitioners in the affected area were contacted by the Eastern HSS Board by telephone and advised of the ongoing investigations. This was followed on 29 August with a letter to all GPs in the Eastern Board area advising them of the areas affected and asking them to advise those patients over 65 and those with serious medical conditions to boil water before drinking. On August 30, the Outbreak Control Team decided that a boil water notice should be issued to people in the affected area and the notice was distributed by the Water Service on 31 August to all households and premises served by the Poleglass reservoir. This was extended to the population served via the Forked Bridge Water Treatment Plant on 1 September. On 31 August and 1 September the Water Service and Environmental Health Officers contacted nursing and residential homes, patients on home dialysis, schools and commercial food premises to give advice. The Eastern HSS Board opened a helpline on 2 September to provide information to members of the public who were concerned about the health implications of the outbreak and a factsheet on cryptosporidiosis has been added to their website. It is standard practice to review all of the procedures and practices employed after an outbreak of this kind. Tá an ráig cripteaspóiriam a tharla ar na mallaibh i ndiaidh dul i bhfeidhm ar an phobal a fhaigheann a gcuid uisce ó Thaiscumair an Phoill Ghlais agus ó na taiscumair de chuid Sheirbhís an Tuaiscirt atá ar na gaobhair. Ar an 25 Lúnasa insíodh d’othair scothaosta agus dóibh siúd atá i ndianriocht míochaine sa cheantar an t-uisce a fhiuchadh sula n-ólfadh siad é ar eagla na heagla go dtí go mbeadh cúis na ráige aimsithe. Chuir Bord SSS an Oirthir glaonna gutháin ar na Liachleachtóirí sa cheantar a raibh an galar ann an lá céanna lena gcur ar an eolas faoi na fiosrúcháin a bhí ar bun. Lena chois sin sheol an Bord litir chuig gach Liachleachtóir ina cheantar ar an 29 Lúnasa le rá leo cá raith an galar agus le hiarraidh orthu inse do na hothair siúd a bhí os cionn 65 bliana d’aois nó a bhí i ndianriocht míochaine an t-uisce a fhiuchadh sula n-ólfadh siad é. Ar an 30 Lúnasa chinn Foireann Rialaithe na Ráige gur chóir fógra a sheoladh chuig daoine sa cheantar a raibh an galar ann le hiarraidh orthu an t-uisce a fhiuchadh. Ar an 31 Lúnasa scaip an tSeirbhís Uisce na fógraí ar gach teach agus ar gach foirgneamh a fhaigheann uisce ó Thaiscumar an Phoill Ghlais. Scaipeadh iad fosta ar an phobal a fhaigheann uisce trí Ionad Cóireála Uisce Dhroichead an Ghabhail ar an 1 Meán Fómhair. Ar an 31 Lúnasa agus ar an 1 Meán Fómhair chuaigh an tSeirbhís Uisce agus Oifigigh Sláinte Comhshaoil i dteagmháil le teaghaisí cónaithe, le tithe altranais, le hothair a bhfuil scagdhealú ar siúl sa bhaile acu, le scoileanna agus le foirgnimh ghnó atá ag láimhseáil bia chun comhairle a thabhairt dóibh. D’oscail Bord SSS an Oirthir líne chabhrach ón 2 Meán Fómhair le heolas a sholáthar do daoine den phobal a bhí buartha faoi impleachtaí sláinte na ráige agus cuireadh leathanach eolais ar chripteaspóireadóis le láithreán gréasáin an Bhoird. Is cuid den ghnáthchleachtas é athbhreithniú a dhéanamh ar na modhanna agus ar na cleachtais a chuirtear i bhfeidhm i ndiaidh ráige den chineál seo. Cryptosporidium Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what she has done to produce a report on the parasite cryptosporidium since attention was brought to this issue at the meeting of the Regional Development Committee on 7 June 2000. (AQW 40/00) Ms de Brún: This question relates to the cryptosporidiosis outbreak which occurred in April/May 2000 in the Eastern HSS Board area. An Outbreak Control Team, led by the Eastern HSS Board, was established to monitor the outbreak and advise on appropriate precautions and remedial measures. The Outbreak Control Team, which brings together public health professionals, environmental health officers and the Water Service, is finalising their report into the incident. Baineann an cheist seo leis an ráig cripteaspóireadóise a tharla i gceantar Bhord SSS an Oirthir le linn Aibreán agus Bhealtaine 2000. Bunaíodh Foireann Rialaithe na Ráige, agus Bord SSS an Oirthir i gceannas uirthi, le faireachán a dhéanamh ar an ráig agus comhairle a thabhairt faoi na réamhchúraimí agus faoi na bearta feabhais cuí ba cheart a ghlacadh. Is é atá i bhFoireann Rialaithe na Ráige gairmithe na sláinte poiblí, oifigigh sláinte comhshaoil agus an tSeirbhís Uisce agus tá siad ar tí a dtuarascáil ar an ráig a chríochnú. TOPHIGHER AND FURTHER EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EMPLOYMENT New Deal Programme Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment if he considers the training period offered to candidates in the New Deal Programme to be adequate and if he is satisfied the New Deal Programme is adequately resourced. (AQW 89/00) The Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment (Dr Farren): The New Deal for 18 to 24 Year Olds and the New Deal for 25+ Pilot both provide a training period of up to 52 weeks for eligible participants who wish to undertake full-time training while on New Deal. For those who do not choose to follow the training route work experience placements lasting up to 26 weeks (New Deal 18-24) and 13 weeks (New Deal 25+ Pilot) are available. The present New Deal 25+ Pilot programme is due to end on 31 March 2001 at which time it will be replaced by a substantive New Deal 25+ programme. I am currently in discussion with the responsible GB Minister regarding aspects of the design of this programme, including the duration of the work experience element. I remain satisfied that the 52 weeks allowed for those following the full-time training route is adequate to achieve the targeted outcome. The resources allocated to the New Deal programmes from the Windfall Levy are sufficient to cover the present demands on the programmes. Funding for future years, when the Windfall Levy monies have been exhausted, has yet to be finalised with HM Treasury. I will be arguing for Northern Ireland to receive the necessary resources to allow for continued successful implementation of the New Deal programmes. TOPRegional Development Strategy Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to help develop a commercial corridor across Northern Ireland on an east/west basis so that a balanced approach is achieved to the overall development of Northern Ireland. (AQW 15/00) The Minister for Regional Development (Mr Campbell): The Regional Development Strategy, currently being finalised, will emphasise the value of achieving balanced development across the Region. A Regional Strategic Transport Network with key and link transport corridors is identified and this will provide the skeletal framework for the future development of Northern Ireland. The Strategy will be to exploit the economic potential of the key and link transport corridors which offer larger consumer markets, good links between the main towns and access to significant labour markets and rural catchment areas, in effect creating commercial corridors across the Region. The Strategy recognises the importance of the east-west key transport corridor which links Belfast, Craigavon, Dungannon and Enniskillen with the important transport spine through the west of the Londonderry-Strabane-Omagh-Dublin route, thereby providing a number of hubs around which economic development in the west can be focused. Regional Development Strategy Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister for Regional Development if he has a working plan or model that would correspond to the north-east corridor of Ballymena, Coleraine, Limavady etc for the south of Lough Neagh corridor to Enniskillen and Omagh/Strabane. (AQW 16/00) Mr Campbell: The Regional Development Strategy when it is finalised will provide a spatial framework, or model, for future development and will emphasise balanced development across the Region. A Regional Strategic Transport Network with key and link transport corridors is identified and this will provide the skeletal framework for the future development of Northern Ireland. The Strategy will be to exploit the economic potential of the key and link transport corridors which offer larger consumer markets, good links between the main towns and access to significant labour markets and rural catchment areas, in effect creating commercial corridors east to west across the Region. As a counterbalance to the north east, the Regional Development Strategy identifies what could be described as a broad 'crescent' of economic development nodes to the south and west of Lough Neagh, following the South Western Transport Corridor and connecting with the Western Transport Corridor (Londonderry - Strabane - Omagh - Dublin). This 'crescent' stretches from Craigavon/Omagh through Dungannon/Cookstown to Omagh, Enniskillen and the North West, thus providing a range of centres for employment and services on which future economic growth in the west can be focused. Roads Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to overcome the lack of infrastructure investment over the last 30 years in the rural roads in West Tyrone. (AQW 17/00) Mr Campbell: It is clear that the levels of expenditure on Northern Ireland’s roads over recent years have been inadequate to maintain properly or improve the existing road network. I will therefore be considering, as part of the work currently underway to develop a long-term transport strategy, the scale of infrastructure investment required on roads, including rural roads, and how such investment might be funded. This is an issue which I will also be pursuing in my input to the Programme of Government. Omagh- Wastewater Treatment Works Mr Joe Byrne asked the Minister for Regional Development when he intends to approve new wastewater treatment works for Omagh on an out of town site. (AQW 18/00) Mr Campbell: I am aware of the concerns expressed by public representatives and residents about the siting of the new Omagh Wastewater Treatment Works. I intend to visit Omagh shortly to see the proposed sites and to meet Omagh District Council to discuss the issues involved. I hope to be in a position to make an announcement in the next two to three months. Aluminium Levels Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development what are the current levels of aluminium in the water supply. (AQW 19/00) Mr Campbell: I am replying as this is a matter for the Department for Regional Development. The most recent assessment available for levels of aluminium in the water supply is contained in the Drinking Water Quality Report 1999, published by Water Service in June 2000. Approximately 94% of samples comply with the regulatory standards for aluminium contained in the Water Quality Regulations (NI) 1994. A significant programme of capital works, costing approximately £100 million, is planned to upgrade water treatment works and increase compliance levels generally. Water Metering Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development are there any plans to introduce metering of water in households in Northern Ireland. (AQW 20/00) Mr Campbell: There are no plans to introduce metering of water in households in Northern Ireland under the existing arrangements for funding the provision of water and sewerage services. However, in recognition of the very substantial investment needs of both services over the next decade and beyond, I intend to consider the options for future charging arrangements. The aim of such arrangements might be to provide a more sensible, transparent and accountable relationship between the Water Service and its customers and promote the sustainable use of water resources. If, at any time in the future, there is consideration of introducing a separate water charge for domestic customers, consultation would be undertaken with the Department of Finance and Personnel. Roads Mr William Hay asked the Minister for Regional Development if he has any plans to increase resources to rural areas in Northern Ireland, especially Roads maintenance, grass and hedge cutting. (AQW 21/00) Mr Campbell: I will be considering, as part of the work currently underway to develop a long-term transport strategy, the need to maintain properly the existing road network, including rural roads. This will include examining the criteria used in prioritising capital and maintenance schemes within the available resources. I am very conscious that I have inherited a significant roads maintenance backlog and that the existing levels of funding for the roads budget fall far short of what is required. These are issues which I will also be pursuing in my input to the Programme of Government. Roads Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Regional Development what progress has been made to date with the major road works on the A26 at Ballymena, if he will indicate any additional measures being considered for pedestrian safety, and if he will make a statement. (AQW 28/00) Mr Campbell: I was pleased to visit the A26 scheme recently and see the excellent progress currently being made. The new dual carriageway is already taking shape and a substantial length has now been surfaced. To date there has been relatively little disruption to the 21,000 drivers who use the road every day and the contractor has made the most of the summer weather. Progress from now on is likely to be slower as the winter months approach and because of the complications of adjacent properties. Nevertheless, the contract is likely to be completed by May 2001, ie, several weeks ahead of the original programme. The scheme provides for pedestrian safety in that a continuous footway will be constructed along the eastern side. There will also be short lengths of footways to bus stops along the western side and at crossing points. Furthermore, special arrangements will be made at Valley Road to accommodate the parents of children attending Carnaghts Primary School. In addition to a crossing point for the school crossing patrol, parking facilities will be provided on surplus ground near the school. Roads Service Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Regional Development to list any roads identified for abandonment in the North Antrim constituency. (AQW 32/00) Mr Campbell: At present my Department’s Roads Service is not considering any large scale road abandonments. In North Antrim a small number of minor abandonments are being progressed, mainly at the request of adjacent landowners. These are: 968m2 of road at the end of the U2209 Old Crebilly Road, Ballymena; 1121m2 of road embankment beside the A36 Larne Road Link, Ballymena at the Castle Demesne Link junction; 3100m2 of road embankment beside the A36 Larne Road Link, Ballymena at the Crebilly Road junction; and 1695m2 of road embankment beside the A36 Larne Road Link at Ballymena adjacent to Edwin May’s car showroom complex. Roads Service Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Regional Development what assessment has been made of the Northern Ireland Audit Office report on the structural maintenance of roads (NIA 15); and if he will make a statement. (AQW 33/00) Mr Campbell: The Northern Ireland Audit Office report on the Structural Maintenance of Roads recognised the decline in expenditure in real terms for this key activity. As a result of funding constraints over the past number of years, Roads Service has had to focus its resources on motorways and those roads which make up the trunk road network. The report confirmed that expenditure on structural maintenance of roads in Northern Ireland has been consistently lower than in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland. I am very conscious that I have inherited a significant road maintenance backlog and that the existing levels of funding fall far short of what is required. These are issues that I will be pursuing in my input to the Programme for Government. Road Works Preparation Pool Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline his policy (Roadworks Preparation Pool) on the upgrading of roads and to specify whether this programme includes the upgrading of the main road from Ballymena to Ballymoney - The Frosses. (AQW 34/00) Mr Campbell: I would refer the Member to a letter dated 20 July 2000 which the former Regional Development Minister, Mr Robinson, issued to all Northern Ireland MPs, MLA’s and district councils. In that letter my predecessor explained the Department’s new policy arrangements for delivering the Roads Service programme of major works. These arrangements include the establishment of a Major Works Preparation Pool for schemes that Roads Service would hope to construct or start work on within the next 5 years or so. A 10-Year Forward Planning Schedule, to align with the Department’s 10-Year Transportation Strategy, will also be prepared. I hope to publish that Schedule next year. A scheme to dual the Frosses Road is not included in the Major Works Preparation Pool. At present my Department’s Roads Service is considering a number of potential schemes for possible inclusion in the Forward Planning Schedule. One of the schemes being considered is the dualling of the Frosses Road between Glarryford and the Ballycastle road junction. Telecommunication Masts Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister for Regional Development whether approval has been given to the proposed erection of telecommunication masts on Water Service property in Rostrevor, Kilcoo and Downpatrick areas. (AQW 37/00) Mr Campbell: I am replying as this is a matter for the Department for Regional Development. Water Service has not received any requests for the erection of telecommunication masts at its installations in the Rostrevor area. In the Kilcoo and Downpatrick areas Water Service recently received four applications for the erection of masts. The position on each is as follows:- (a) the application in respect of Kilcoo Wastewater Treatment Works has been turned down. The Works are to be extended and the site could not accommodate the proposed mast; and. (b) applications are currently being considered for the erection of masts at Lough Island Reavy Water Treatment Works (near Kilcoo), Sampson’s Stone Service Reservoir (in Downpatrick), and Clough Wastewater Treatment Works (approximately 5 miles from Downpatrick). The three applications will be carefully examined against very rigorous criteria. This includes ensuring that the proposed installation does not affect Water Service operations, that all licensing and public safety requirements are met and that the cellular companies involved have obtained planning approval from Planning Service for their proposals. Applications which meet these criteria are likely to be approved by Water Service. Cryptosporidium Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister for Regional Development to provide information on water treatment at all reservoirs in Northern Ireland and to confirm that no other areas of population are at risk from further outbreaks of cryptosporidium. (AQW 39/00) Mr Campbell: The type of treatment provided at each water treatment works depends on the quality of the raw water and hence treatment methods vary. Commonly used treatment methods are sand filtration and/or chemical treatment employing widely used flocculates based on iron and aluminium. Significant capital investment is required to enhance water treatment facilities across Northern Ireland to satisfy public health requirements and comply with EC Directives. All Water Service sources of supply have been assessed for cryptosporidium risk. The risk assessment method is based on that used in England, Wales and Scotland, developed in consultation with the NI Drinking Water Inspector and agreed with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. Risk assessments are revised each year and are used to improve treatment. The Silent Valley was the only source with a risk factor which indicated the need for continuous analysis during the higher risk period (February – May each year). A new water treatment works for the Silent Valley supply is due for completion in 2003/2004 at a cost of £35m. The provision of this works will provide a primary barrier for the removal of cryptosporidium. Cryptosporidium is ubiquitous in the community, is carried by many animals and some humans and can be spread, for example, through contact with animals. I can assure you that Water Service will do all in its power to minimise any risk of cryptosporidiosis through the public water supply. Cryptosporidium Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister for Regional Development what information has been forwarded to the Department of Health, Social Service and Public Safety from the Department of Regional Development with regard to the outbreak of cryptosporidium. (AQW 41/00) Mr Campbell: The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSS&PS) and the Department for Regional Development have an agreed joint protocol for the management of an outbreak of cryptosporidiosis. This is based on the recommendations of the 1998 Report of the Group of Experts on Cryptosporidium chaired by Professor Ian Bouchier. The protocol was followed in the recent outbreak in the Lisburn and South West Belfast areas with the establishment of an Outbreak Control Team. The Team was chaired by the Consultant for Communicable Disease Control and involved officials of the Eastern Health and Social Services Board and the Water Service. Information on matters such as the extent of the area affected, water analysis results and ongoing investigations were dealt with by the Team on a daily basis. Communications to the public were also agreed by the Team and issued as joint press statements. The DHSS&PS was kept informed of progress by the Water Service with a total of six reports being issued during the course of the incident. In addition to these formal methods of communication there was regular liaison between the officials of the two Departments. Water and Sewage Provisions Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development how many of the estimated 6,000 homes without running water have benefited since the increase in financial allowances for the provision of mains water and public sewage to existing homes. (AQO 3/00) Mr Campbell: Since the 4 May 2000 announcement about the increased financial allowances Water Service has approved applications for connecting sixty-two existing properties to mains water supplies. These properties require the implementation of twenty-three construction schemes. Two schemes, involving nine properties, are currently under construction and the remaining twenty-one schemes, involving fifty-three properties, are either at design stage or are out to contract. Strangford Bridge Mr Kieran McCarthy asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will support requests from local residents for a bridge across Strangford Lough between Portaferry and Strangford as a replacement for the existing Ferry Service. (AQO 23/00) Mr Campbell: The projected traffic volumes using such a bridge would simply not be high enough to justify its very considerable construction costs. The span across Strangford Lough between Portaferry and Strangford measures 0.6 miles and the cost of constructing a bridge at this location is estimated to be in the region of £25M/£30M. The environmental impact of the bridge would be a contentious issue in this area of outstanding natural beauty, particularly because the bridge would have to be a high level construction to allow for continued navigation of the Lough. The Member for Strangford will be aware that my Department’s Roads Service has recently awarded the contract for a new vessel for use on the Strangford Lough ferry service. The contract is for the design, construction and delivery of a new 28-car ferry vessel within a 12-month period. The contract sum is within the £3M budget which had been set aside for this project and the procurement of a new vessel will ensure the continuation of a safe and reliable ferry service between Portaferry and Strangford. Public Transport Mr David Ford asked the Minister for Regional Development what action he has taken to ensure that Northern Ireland obtains additional funding for public transport in line with that allocated by the Department of Environment, Transport and the Regions in Great Britain. (AQO 21/00) Mr Campbell: The Northern Ireland 2000 Spending Review is the process by which public expenditure allocations will be made. In light of the fact that significant additional resources have been provided to the Northern Ireland Block as a result of increased allocations in GB, including 20% annual increases for roads and transport, my aim is to ensure that substantial increases are provided for roads and transport in Northern Ireland. As part of the Spending Review process I have proposed bids for additional resources which have been notified to Mark Durkan who will be presenting a draft Budget to the Executive Committee and the Assembly during the autumn. I will be promoting these bids strongly throughout the process leading to the agreement of the Budget. [I have also provided the Executive Committee with a paper setting out the current work within my Department in preparing a 10 year Regional Transportation Strategy and have recently taken receipt of the Railways Task Force’s interim report.] Ballyclare Sewage Treatment Mr Jim Wilson asked the Minister for Regional Development to outline his proposals for the enhancement of sewage treatment facilities and the sewage network in the greater Ballyclare area; and if he will give a start date for the commencement of work. (AQO 2/00) Mr Campbell: A detailed technical and economic appraisal is currently being carried out of the options for providing enhanced wastewater treatment facilities in Ballyclare. There will be ongoing consultation with public representatives as plans are being progressed. Subject to completion of all the formalities, the scheme is programmed to commence in the financial year 2002/2003. It is expected to cost around £5 million and take 2 years to complete. A study of the sewerage system in Ballyclare has recently been completed and a range of improvements have been identified. These are expected to cost in the region of £500,000. However, due to other priorities, it is not likely that work on these can commence before 2005/2006. Road Services Mr Denis Watson asked the Minister for Regional Development when he proposes to proceed with the dualling of the A3 Portadown to Armagh Road. (AQO 7/00) Mr Campbell: The Member will know that the A3 between Portadown and Armagh is a 2-lane carriageway route. The volumes of traffic currently being recorded are well within the capacity for this type of road. My Department’s Roads Service has no plans at the minute to dual the A3 Portadown to Armagh road within the short to medium term and hence no such scheme is currently included in the Roads Service Major Works Preparation Pool. Options for improving the A3, will, however, be considered for possible inclusion in the Roads Service 10-Year Forward Planning Schedule which will be published next year. Flood Management Ms Eileen Bell asked the Minister for Regional Development what contingency plans his Department has now in place in the event of any further flooding. (AQO 19/00) Mr Campbell: Water Service, as part of its responsibility for the delivery of day to day water and sewerage services, has had in place Emergency Planning procedures to deal with a range of potential incidents. These procedures include a single province wide telephone number, dedicated customer service/call handling units, 24-hour telemetry monitoring of key installations and deployment of emergency response staff and contractors to specific locations to deal with incidents. Water Service is currently reviewing these procedures to take account of issues identified during the recent exceptional flooding incidents in the Belfast area. I have also agreed with the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development that the existing Inter Agency Flood Group, led by the Rivers Agency and including staff from Roads and Water Services, which has been addressing key issues of flood management co-ordination, will examine how current arrangements and procedures can be enhanced in order to improve the response to flooding incidents. Concessionary Fares Mr Sean Neeson asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans his Department has to introduce free public transport for pensioners in Northern Ireland. (AQO 20/00) Mr Campbell: I and my predecessor, Mr Robinson are totally committed to seeing the introduction of a free travel scheme for older people at the earliest opportunity. To this end, Mr. Robinson issued a discussion paper on this subject to Councils in February 2000. I am pleased to advise that there was widespread support among local councils for the provision of a free fare travel scheme for older people, although opinion was divided about how the scheme should be financed. Mr Robinson again wrote to Councils in June to seek a definitive opinion on financing the scheme. Councils were asked to comment by 1 September 2000 and to date 12 replies have been received. The Department has put forward a Concessionary Fares Bill and the Assembly agreed to incorporate this in the programme of legislation announced on Monday 11th September. This Bill provides for the introduction of Free Public Transport Travel Scheme(s) for older people (men and women 65 and over) and to enable District Councils to contribute to the cost of those schemes. TOPDomestic Energy Efficiency Scheme Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Social Development if the scheme, recently announced in Great Britain, to provide central heating systems for older people on low incomes will be extended to Northern Ireland. (AQW 36/00) The Minister for Social Development (Mr Morrow): No, the English Home Energy Efficiency Scheme will not extend to Northern Ireland. However, my Department has announced proposals, which are currently out for consultation, for a new Domestic Energy Efficiency Scheme (DEES). This scheme will be introduced in April 2001 and will provide a package of insulation measures including central heating for low-income private sector pensioner households on certain benefits. TOPAssembly Questions Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Assembly Commission if it has any plans to publish information relating to the number of questions tabled by members, broken down by party, Department and individual member. (AQW 45/00) The Representative of the Assembly Commission (Dr O'Hagan): I am responding to you on behalf of the Assembly Commission. The Assembly Commission has no plans to publish information relating to the number of questions tabled by Members, broken down by Party, Department and individual Member. TOP
Office of the First Minister and Deputy
First Minister Brussels Office Agriculture and Rural Development Marketing of Agricultural Produce Education Children With Hearing Impairment Environment Historic Buildings Grant Aid Finance and Personnel Ministerial Transport Health, Social Services and Public Safety Action Against Drugs Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment New Deal Programme Regional Development Aluminium Levels Social Development Domestic Energy Efficiency Scheme Assembly Commission Assembly Questions WRITTEN ANSWERS Friday 22 September 2000 OFFICE OF THE FIRST
MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER Sarah's Law Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister are they aware of Campaign for
a "Sarah's Law" and what measures, if any, the Executive is taking to implement
a programme that will effectively protect children from sex offenders. (AQW 31/00) The First Minister and Deputy First
Minister (Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon): We are aware of the campaign for the
introduction of "Sarah’s Law" which would give parents access to a
register of sex offenders. Legislation in this area remains a reserved matter
and is thus the responsibility of the Secretary of State. In Northern Ireland, a number of Departments
are involved in the provision and documentation of guidance on dealing with
sex offenders. The Inter-Agency Sex Offender Steering
Group has recently approved a manual of guidance on the "Assessment and
Management of Risk of Sex Offenders". Implementation of the manual, which
largely formalises procedures which are already in place, will be taken forward
from next month. The Department of Education has advised
all schools to include, within their pastoral care curriculum, self-protection
programmes for pupils, and guidance on the content of these has been widely
circulated. Further, the Departments of Education and Health, Social Services
and Public Safety, together with the Northern Ireland Office are working with
UK Government Departments and the other devolved administrations, to introduce
a reciprocal mechanism for preventing unsuitable people from working with children.
This development is also being pursued with colleagues from the Departments
of Education and Science and Health in Dublin under the auspices of the North-South
Ministerial Council Education Sectoral joint working group on child protection. Northern Ireland Economic Council Dr Esmond Birnie asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail the staff complement
of the Northern Ireland Economic Council, any current vacancies on the staff
of that body and the planned process of recruitment. (AQW 52/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
Northern Ireland Economic Council has a staff complement of nine. This consists
of five professional staff and four administrative/clerical staff. Currently there are three professional
staff in post, one on a career break and one post – that of the director- vacant.
An existing member of staff is carrying out the duties of the director. The
appointment of a new director will take place after a review of the Northern
Ireland Economic Council has been undertaken this year. The filling of two administrative/ clerical
vacancies is currently in progress. Executive Sub Committees Mr Kieran McCarthy asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what plans exist regarding the
establishment of Executive Sub Committees on cross Departmental issues. (AQO 27/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
Executive Committee is established under Section 20 of the Northern Ireland
Act 1998, which states that the Executive Committee should consist of the First
Minister, the Deputy First Minister and the Northern Ireland Ministers.
Paragraph 19 of Strand One of the Belfast
Agreement states that the Executive Committee will provide a forum for the discussion
of, and agreement on, issues which cut across the responsibilities of two or
more Ministers. There is no specific provision for sub-Committees
within the legislation, but this would not preclude them being set up if it
is deemed a more effective way of handling particular items of Executive business. We recognise the need for Ministers to
work cross-Departmentally from time to time to ensure policies are handled in
a coherent strategic fashion. The Executive Committee has had one formal sub-committee
on flags. It has also approved an inter-departmental sub-committee on drugs.
Within the context of the Programme for
Government, the Executive Committee will be examining how best to address cross-departmental
issues. North/South Ministerial Council Mr Peter Robinson asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to indicate the number of meetings
of an official nature all Northern Ireland Ministers have had with Ministers
in the Republic of Ireland. (AQO 29/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: In the
two periods of devolved administration since 2 December 1999, there have been
a total of thirty meetings of an official nature between Northern Ireland Ministers
and Ministers from the Republic of Ireland. Of these, fourteen meetings were
under the auspices of the North/South Ministerial Council, including the inaugural
plenary that was held in Armagh in December 1999. Brussels Office Mr Sean Neeson asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister if a statement will be made
on progress towards establishing a European Office for Northern Ireland in Brussels. (AQO 28/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
Executive Committee has agreed to set up an Office of the Executive in Brussels
and work is proceeding on its establishment. The fitting out of the office premises
will commence as soon as the normal procurement procedures for contracting work
have been completed. The process of selecting the staff for the Office is already
underway. We would expect the office to be functioning in about three month’s
time. The Office of the Executive will provide
a European contact point for Ministers and their departments. The staff of the
Office will be members of the UK Permanent Representation, giving them access
to meetings and to a level of information which they would not otherwise have.
Having separate premises will provide a focal point for Northern Ireland in
Brussels, helping us to develop a distinct and positive profile within the EU. Equality Commission Mr Edwin Poots asked the Office
of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to provide details of the current
religious composition of the Equality Commission. (AQO 11/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The
appointment of members of the Equality Commission is a reserved matter. The
composition of the Commission is therefore a matter for the Secretary of State. AGRICULTURE
AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT Rural Development Programme Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Agriculture and Rural Development what measures she has put in place to address
the Northern Ireland Audit Report, "The Rural Development Programme" (NIA 19)
and if she will make a statement. (AQW 35/00) The Minister of Agriculture and Rural
Development (Ms Rodgers): I welcome the breadth of the Northern Ireland
Audit Office report on the Rural Development Programme and recognise the importance
of learning lessons from what has been done before and the value of the NIAO
report in highlighting those lessons. The Department is addressing the main
concerns identified by the NIAO. Following publication of the report,
the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Assembly has decided to take evidence
from the Departmental Accounting Officer at a hearing scheduled for 25 October
2000. After the hearing the PAC will produce a report with recommendations which
the Department will respond to. These recommendations will be taken fully into
account in preparing for the next Rural Development Programme which will come
on stream early in 2001. Marketing of Agricultural Produce Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Agriculture and Rural Development if she plans to implement any of the recommendations
made by the Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development in its report, "Retailing
in Northern Ireland - A Fair Deal for Farmers" (1/99/R) and if she will make
a statement. (AQW 53/00) Ms Rodgers: This report contained
Recommendations directed at all links in the food marketing chain, as well as
the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Department
of the Environment. With regard to those Recommendations directed at my Department,
I was pleased to be able to confirm in my reply to the Committee that in most
cases, DARD was already taking forward a range of initiatives aimed at addressing
the underlying issues and concerns. Particular examples include our work in
encouraging collaboration in the marketing of agricultural produce, the promotion
of partnerships in the food chain, supporting marketing initiatives and quality
assurance programmes, encouraging local sourcing and our significant research
and development and technology transfer commitments. Children With Hearing Impairment Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Education to outline what provisions are available at grammar schools for
children with hearing impairment. (AQW 43/00) The Minister of Education (Mr McGuinness):
Children with a hearing impairment are assessed following the 5-stage approach
of the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice in the same way as children
with any other form of learning difficulty, and where necessary a Statement
of Special Educational Needs is made for them setting out the special provision
they require. A number of hearing impaired children
attend mainstream schools (including grammar schools) and may have additional
teaching from an Education and Library Board peripatetic teacher of the hearing
impaired and/or the services of a classroom assistant, in accordance with the
provision specified in their Statement. Other children attend special education
units for the hearing impaired attached to local primary and secondary schools
and some attend Jordanstown Special School (for pupils with hearing or visual
impairment), Newtownabbey. A few children attend special schools for the hearing
impaired in Great Britain or the Republic of Ireland, and some attend Mary Hare
Grammar School for the hearing impaired, Newbury, Berkshire. Over the next few months my Department,
in conjunction with the Education and Library Boards’ Special Educational Needs
Regional Strategy Group, will be considering what other options might be possible
for the more academically gifted hearing impaired pupils. Without wishing to
pre-empt these deliberations, the option of attendance at Mary Hare Grammar
School will remain, where the Board is satisfied that such a placement would
best meet the pupil’s needs and is consistent with the efficient use of resources. Roadside Vehicle Checks Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment how many roadside checks with regard to the enforcement of
transport licensing will be carried out annually in respect of (a) goods vehicles,
(b) taxis, and (c) omnibuses. (AQW 46/00) The Minister of the Environment (Mr
Foster): The Department carries out vehicle checks at the roadside, at the
Department’s weighbridge sites and at operator’s premises. Separate figures
for these locations are not available as these are determined by operational
considerations during the course of the year. It is expected that the following
total number of vehicle checks will be carried out in the year ending 31 March
2001:- (a) goods vehicles – 175 operations
checking a minimum of 20,000 vehicles; (b) taxis – 120 operations checking
a minimum of 1800 taxis; (c) omnibuses – 45 operations checking
a minimum of 800 buses. Roadside Vehicle Checks Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment with regard to the enforcement of transport licensing how
many weighbridge operations will be carried out annually in respect of (a) goods
vehicles, (b) taxis, and (c) omnibuses. (AQW 47/00) Mr Foster: The Department carries
out vehicle checks at the roadside, at the Department’s weighbridge sites and
at operator’s premises. Separate figures for these locations are not available
as these are determined by operational considerations during the course of the
year. It is expected that the following total number of vehicle checks will
be carried out in the year ending 31 March 2001:- (a) goods vehicles – 175 operations
checking a minimum of 20,000 vehicles; (b) taxis – 120 operations checking
a minimum of 1800 taxis; (c) omnibuses – 45 operations checking
a minimum of 800 buses. Tachograph Inspections Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment how many tachograph inspections will be carried out annually
(a) at the roadside and (b) at operators' premises. (AQW 48/00) Mr Foster: During the year ending 31 March 2001,
the Department expects to carry out the following numbers of tachograph inspections. (a) at the roadside – 4,000 charts (b) at operators' premises – 7,000 charts Tachograph Inspections Mr Mick Murphy asked the Minister
of the Environment to outline the arrangements to provide balanced geographic
distribution of tachograph inspections across Northern Ireland. (AQW 49/00) Mr Foster: The Department’s enforcement
staff and the police carry out tachograph inspections throughout Northern Ireland.
The number and distribution of tachograph inspections form part of an operational
strategy aimed at ensuring operators throughout Northern Ireland receive equitable
treatment. The geographic distribution of checks is determined by operational
considerations and are a combination of routine roadside and weighbridge operations
and inspections at operators' premises. Inspections are also carried out in
response to information received from haulage industry representatives. Planning and Scientific Staff Mr Sean Neeson asked the Minister
of the Environment what action he is taking to fill vacancies for professional
staff in the Planning Service and the Environment and Heritage Service. (AQO 16/00) Mr Foster: I am glad to be able
to tell the Assembly that I have obtained significant financial resources to
enable the recruitment of 47 professional planning staff and 43 mainly scientific
staff to the Planning Service and the Environment and Heritage Service respectively.
The recruitment process is now underway and 24 posts have been filled. Historic Buildings Grant Aid Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister
of the Environment when the moratorium on accepting applications for grant-aid
for historic building schemes will be lifted and if there has been any developments
on providing funding for these schemes. (AQO 10/00) Mr Foster: Within present resource
allocations, my Department intends to accept new applications in 2001-2002 under
a revised grants policy. However, grant payments for these new applications
may not be released until the following financial year, 2002-2003. Discussions on the level of funding for
the historic buildings grant scheme are continuing in the context of the 2000
Spending Review. I am not in a position to anticipate the outcome of those discussions. Railways Task Force Report Mr Arthur Doherty asked the Minister
of the Environment if he will give consideration to the findings of the Railways
Task Force in its Report "The Rail Debate", and those in the submission of The
Northern Corridor Railways Groups; and thereby promote the substantial environmental
and road safety benefits as part of an integrated transport strategy for Northern
Ireland. (AQO 33/00) Mr Foster: The then Minister for
Regional Development commissioned The Railways Task Force Report. Officials
from my Department have been involved in providing information on a number of
environmental issues to assist in the production of the Report. I am aware that the Regional Development
Committee received a presentation giving an overview of the findings of the
Task Force on Wednesday 13 September. I look forward to seeing the full report
and technical assessment in due course Ministerial Transport Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister
of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 689/99, to confirm the level of public
expenditure on ministerial transport arrangements for the Minister of Health
and Minister of Education. (AQW 29/00) The Minister of Finance and Personnel
(Mr Durkan): The Department of Finance and Personnel is not responsible
for the provision of official transport for the Minister of Health and the Minister
of Education. Information on the cost of public expenditure in respect of their
transport arrangements should be obtained from the Departments concerned. HEALTH, SOCIAL SERVICES
AND PUBLIC SAFETY Acute Hospital Services Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when she expects to receive the
report from the working group investigating future acute hospital provision
in Northern Ireland and if she will make a statement. (AQW 14/00) The Minister of Health, Social Services
and Public Safety (Ms de Brún): I have asked the review group to
report to me at the end of February 2001. I decided to establish the review
group because I wanted to take a fresh look at the complex issues that are involved
in acute hospital services. The review group will give me independent, objective
and informed advice which will help to guide the strategic development of hospital
services in the 21st century. D’iarr mé ar an ghrúpa
athbhreithnithe tuarascáil a chur chugam faoi dheireadh Feabhra 2001.
Chinn mé ar an ghrúpa athbhreithnithe a bhunú mar gur mhaith
liom breathnú athuair ar na ceisteanna casta a bhaineann le seirbhísí
géarmhíochaine ospidéal. Tabharfaidh an grúpa athbhreithnithe
comhairle eolach, neamhspleách, oibiachtúil dom a chuideoidh linn
forbairt straitéiseach a dhéanamh ar na seirbhísí
ospidéal san 21ú haois. Ulster Hospital Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what conclusions have been reached
in regard to the strategic development of the Ulster (HSS Trust). (AQW 22/00) Ms de Brún: The need for
strategic development at the Ulster Hospital is recognised but no final conclusions
have been reached to date. A meeting between senior officials and management
of the Trust to consider a strategic and prioritised approach to development
of the hospital is due to take place on 25 September 2000. Plans for redevelopment
of the hospital will need to take account of the outcome of the recent Eastern
Health and Social Services Board proposals on the organisation of hospital services
as well as the wider review of acute hospital services which is now underway
and the availability of resources. Aithnítear go bhfuil forbairt
straitéiseach de dhíth in Ospidéal Uladh ach níor
thángthas ar aon chinneadh deireanach go dtí seo. Tá cruinniú
le bheith ann idir feidhmeannaigh shinsearacha agus lucht bainistíochta
an Iontaobhais ar an 25 Méan Fómhair le cur chuige a leagann béim
ar straitéisí agus ar thosaíochtaí a breithniú.
Caithfear na nithe seo a leanas a chur san áireamh sna pleananna le haghaidh
athfhorbairt an ospidéil: an toradh a bheas ar mholtaí Bhord Sláinte
agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta an Oirthir a fuarthas ar na mallaibh
agus, lena chois sin, an t-athbhreithniú ginearálta ar sheirbhísí
géarmhíochaine ospidéal atá ar siúl anois
agus na hacmhainní atá ar fáil. Ulster Hospital Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail meetings her officials
have had with the Ulster Community & Hospitals HSS Trust. (AQW 23/00) Ms de Brún: Meetings between
officials and HSS Trusts take place on an ongoing basis. Since the Executive
Committee was re-established on 31 May 2000 the following meetings have been
held between DHSSPS officials and representatives of the Ulster Community &
Hospitals HSS Trust:- Seven meetings to discuss the Information
Technology needs of the Trust have been held with staff from the Directorate
of Information Systems; One meeting to discuss the Trust’s general
capital provision was held on 29 August 2000. Bíonn cruinnithe ann go leanúnach
idir feidhmeannaigh agus na hIontaobhais SSS. Is mar seo a leanas a bhí
na cruinnithe idir feidhmeannaigh na RSSSSP agus ionadaithe Iontaobhas Phobal
agus Ospidéal Uladh óna athbhunaíodh an Coiste Feidhmiúchán
ar an 31 Bealtaine 2000: Bhí seacht gcruinniú ann
idir an tIontaobhas agus baill foirne ó Stiúrthóireacht
na gCóras Eolais; Bhí cruinniú amháin
ann ar an 29 Lúnasa 2000 le soláthar ginearálta caipitiúil
an Iontaobhais a phlé Ulster Hospital Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety if she considers the capital investment
at the Ulster Hospital to be on a par with the Royal Victoria Hospitals, Mater,
Altnagelvin and Belfast City Hospitals. (AQW 25/00) Ms de Brún: The major redevelopment
programmes agreed some years ago for other main acute hospital sites, including
the Royal Hospitals and Altnagelvin Hospital, have been taken forward following
a detailed examination of the options, costs and benefits of a range of solutions
in each case. It is clear that strategic development
also needs to embrace the Ulster Hospital site and my Department is now working
with the Ulster Community and Hospitals Trust to draw its current proposals
together. When a redevelopment plan with costs and implementation programme
has been agreed, I will look at the issues of funding and timetable, in the
light of the resources available to me. I ndiaidh mionscrúdú a
dhéanamh ar na roghanna, ar na costais agus ar na buntáistí
i ngach cás maidir le réimse réiteach, cuireadh chun tosaigh
na cláir mhóra forbartha, ar aontaíodh orthu roinnt blianta
ó shin, do na príomhospidéil ghéarmhíochaine
eile, agus na hOpidéil Ríoga agus Ospidéal Alt na nGealbhan
san áireamh. Is léir go gcaithfear Ospidéal
Uladh a chur san áireamh fosta san fhorbairt straitéiseach agus
tá mo Roinnse ag obair i gcomhar le hIontaobhas Phobal agus Ospidéal
Uladh chun a chuid moltaí a tharraingt le chéile. Nuair a bheifear
i ndiaidh aontú ar phlean athfhorbartha agus ar chlár lena chur
i ngníomh, breathnóidh mé féin ar na ceisteanna
a bhainfidh le maoiniú agus leis an chlár ama, i bhfianaise na
n-acmhainní a bheas ar fáil agam. Smoking Related Deaths Mr Ivan Davis asked the Minister
of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many deaths have occurred in
the past three years, in each Health Board Area, as a result of smoking related
illnesses or disease. (AQW 26/00) Ms de Brún: The number
of deaths occurring as a result of smoking related illnesses or disease for
each of the three years from 1996 to 1998, the latest year for which such information
is available, is as follows:- Smoking related deaths HSS BOARD
1996
1997
1998
Eastern
1331
1328
1229
Northern
648
623
656
Southern
446
432
469
Western
438
409
391
Total
2863
2792
2745
Is mar seo a leanas atá líon
na mbásanna de bharr tinneas nó galar, a raibh baint ag caitheamh
tobac leo, a tharla gach bliain ó 1996 go 1998 arb í an bhliain
is déanaí í a bhfuil eolas den chineál seo againn:- Básanna de bharr Caitheamh Tobac
Action Against Drugs Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in pursuance of AQW 769/99, if the Minister has any plans to meet with the chief of the RUC's Anti Drugs Unit to discuss plans to combat drug abuse in Northern Ireland. (AQW 30/00) Ms de Brún: I have no plans to meet with the chief of the RUC’s Anti Drugs Unit. Work on the measures to combat drug abuse is being taken forward under the aegis of the Central Co-ordinating Group for Action Against Drugs. This group comprises senior representatives from a wide range of departments and agencies, including the RUC and I receive regular reports on its work. The measures being taken involve many different groups and agencies, including those in the fields of health and social services and education, as well as many doing important work at community level. Níl pleananna ar bith agam cruinniú a bheith agam le ceannaire Aonad Frith-Dhrugaí an RUC. Tá an obair ar bhearta in éadan mí-úsáid drugaí á cur chun cinn faoi choimirce an Lárghrúpa Comhordaithe um Ghníomhaíocht in éadan Drúgaí. Is &eacut |