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Written Answers to Questions Friday 29 June 2001 Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister Agriculture and Rural Development Enterprise, Trade and Investment Health, Social Services and Public Safety Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment TOPWritten Answers to Questions Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister Civic Forum : Costs of Nomination Sectors Mr Derek Hussey asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQO 1444/00, to detail the costs of the "sectors" that nominated the Forum's members. (AQW 3222/00) The First Minister and Deputy First Minister (Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon): The breakdown of the costs of the nominating sectors is as follows: Advertising - £45,000 (which included £10,000 to advertise for the Chairperson) Consultancy support to nominating sectors - £13,000 Travel expenses of consortium Members - £ 2,400 Since we wrote to Mr Berry on 14 May 2001, the voluntary and community sector has claimed a further £20,000 towards its cost for the nomination process. The claim is under consideration by the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister. Definition of Indirect Discrimination Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister what assessment has been made of the Equality Commission recommendation that the definition of indirect discrimination contained in the EC Equal Treatment Directive should be adopted and whether this would have an adverse impact upon the protestant community. (AQW 3276/00) Mr Trimble and Mr Mallon: The Equality Commission has recently recommended that the definition of indirect discrimination in the Race Relations (Northern Ireland ) Order 1997 should be the same as that contained in the recent EU Race Directive which requires the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin to be implemented. A similar definition of indirect discrimination is used in the EU Framework Directive, which lays down a general framework for combating discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation as regards employment and occupation. In order to comply with these Directives it will be necessary to amend the definitions in both the Race Relations and Fair Employment and Treatment Orders. It is planned to take this forward in the Single Equality Bill. An Equality Impact Assessment will be carried out on that Bill in order to identify any differential impact between any of the groups set out in section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, including persons of different religious belief. TOPAgriculture and Rural Development Soil Association Report Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to give her assessment of the findings of the Soil Association Report (published on 4 June 2001), 'Too Hard to Swallow, the truth about drugs and poultry'; and to make a statement. (AQW 3288/00) The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms Rodgers): My Department has local responsibility for the testing for residues of veterinary drugs. It should be noted that of the 883 samples taken from poultry at slaughter in Northern Ireland in the year 2000 only 2 positives for nicarbazin and 1 for lasalocid were found. In addition a total of 146 local egg samples were taken. Of these, 21 eggs were tested for the presence of lasalocid and 3 were found to be positive. I understand, however, from my scientific advisors and those in the Food Standards Agency (FSA), that these positive results were well within safety limits and posed no threat to human health. While these results are reassuring I am arranging for an extensive survey for coccidiostats in Northern Ireland poultry and eggs. The FSA has announced its intention to convene a meeting of interested parties to consider the issues raised in the report. The independent Veterinary Residues Committee which provides advice on such matters has established a sub-group to consider the findings of surveillance programmes on veterinary residues in poultry and eggs. My Department will continue to work closely with the FSA to ensure that appropriate arrangements are in place to safeguard consumers from potentially harmful residues of medicines in poultry. 20 Day Stand Still Period Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to give her assessment on the impact, on farming, of the 20 day stand still period on animals which have been purchased and to detail whether she has any plans to reduce this period in line with the Republic of Ireland. (AQW 3313/00) Ms Rodgers: The 20-day standstill period is an EC control measure governing the movement of animals and is aimed specifically at inhibiting the spread of disease, specifically Foot & Mouth. In that respect I consider it has been successful in that Northern Ireland remains free of further outbreaks of the disease which can only be good for the farming industry. The standstill period also provides additional welfare benefits by preventing the repeated movement of animals from mart to mart over a short timescale. However, in overall terms it provides greater benefits to a greater number within the farming industry. The Republic of Ireland used to operate for cattle a 30-day standstill system prior to movement, coupled with no inward movements of susceptible animals onto the holding within 7 days prior to movement. However, the ROI authorities removed the "7 day" rule on 18 June and their 30 day holding period now applies to sales through marts and for farm-to-farm movements but not to cattle going for export through assembly centres. I am reviewing the situation here in Northern Ireland with a view to bringing forward proposals which are aimed at providing adequate protection against the threat of contagious diseases. I will be consulting on these proposals in due course. Restrictions on Cattle Exports Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to give an update on the restrictions on cattle exports as a result of BSE. (AQW 3315/00) Ms Rodgers: The current position is that no live cattle may be exported from Northern Ireland, or other parts of the UK, to another Member State or third country. I remain fully committed to a relaxation of the ban but a decision to submit a case to the European Commission will only be taken when the Commission and Member States are receptive. It is not appropriate, and could be counterproductive, to proceed with a case at this time as there is a real risk of rejection. BSE : Reported Incidents Mr Wilson Clyde asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of reported incidents of BSE in Northern Ireland from 1 January 2001 - 31 May 2001 and the number of similar cases reported in the Republic of Ireland for the same period. (AQW 3324/00) Ms Rodgers: There were 26 reported incidents of BSE in Northern Ireland between 1 January 2001 and 31 May 2001 and, at 14 June 2001, a published figure of 183 reported incidents in 2001 in the Republic of Ireland. Of the reported incidents, 6 in Northern Ireland have been confirmed as BSE cases and 56 have been confirmed in the ROI. Greenmount College : Postponed Courses Mr Gardiner Kane asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to make a statement on the postponement of NVQ courses at Greenmount College during the foot-and-mouth restrictions. (AQW 3346/00) Ms Rodgers: Following the initial outbreak of FMD, Greenmount College closed from Monday 26 February 2001. Delivery of part-time courses, including the NVQ courses, ceased from that date. Resumption of courses has been kept under continuous review and assessed in light of the risks involved. All full-time courses (excluding farm-based agriculture skills training and practical work) recommenced from 20 March 2001 and part-time courses, including NVQ courses, in ‘non-agriculture’ disciplines delivered within college campus recommenced from 9 April 2001. Before resumption of the theory-only components of part-time agriculture NVQ courses, which are delivered at out-centres, could be fully implemented from 9 April 2001, the second FMD out-break occurred and part-time agriculture courses had to be suspended again. Delivery of the theory components of the NVQ courses has been gradually resuming since 15 June 2001. All aspects of the FMD situation continue to be kept under review and the resumption of the skills training and the on-farm assessment components of the agriculture NVQ programme will be approved as soon as possible. This will enable trainees taking an NVQ as part of DHFETE-funded Jobskills programme to receive the full balance of their funded training. Early Retirement Schemes for Farmers Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail her policy in respect of the introduction of early retirement schemes for farmers and when an announcement is likely to be made. (AQW 3412/00) Ms Rodgers: One of the central objectives of any early retirement scheme is to bring about structural change within the agricultural industry. This is a subject to which I attach considerable importance and it is essential that any investment of public money to bring about this change is focused on the right target. One of the criticisms of such schemes as exist in other countries at the moment is that they do not provide good value for money. I have, therefore, asked my officials to carry out the necessary work to establish if, and how, a scheme could be developed which would provide a satisfactory return on the taxpayers’ investment. Early in the new year, my Department commissioned a desk study of early retirement and entrants schemes and I have now received the final report from the consultants. While it recommended a targeted early retirement scheme, the evidence presented was not conclusive. One of the difficulties with assessing schemes such as they is that there is a lack of empirical research and investigation in this area. In the light of this, I have now commissioned a research study by the Department of Agricultural Food Economics at Queen’s University Belfast, in association with researchers at a University in the Republic of Ireland. As this is a full research study, I expect it to take at least nine months of work but, when it is finished, it will probably be the first really substantive piece of work on this topic. Given that the process of obtaining EU Commission approval, and the build up of modulation and match funding, would not allow us to introduce a scheme much before the second half of 2002 or early 2003 anyway, it is sensible to seek robust evidence on value for money before committing ourselves. Rural Proofing Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the progress made in implementing Rural Proofing. (AQW 3414/00) Ms Rodgers: I remain wholly committed to the principle of rural proofing. The outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease has, however, required considerable resources in my Department to be diverted from other duties to deal with the crisis. Progress to establish the machinery necessary to ensure that all developing policies are adequately rural proofed has therefore been slower than I would have wished. I am nevertheless confident that an inter-Departmental Group under my chairmanship will be established shortly. Rural Proofing Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to make it her policy to establish a Ministerial-led group to proof all government policies in respect of their rural impact. (AQW 3425/00) Ms Rodgers: As the Executive Programme for Government makes clear, it is already my policy to establish a Ministerial-led group to proof all government policies in respect of their rural impact. TOPBudget Impact on Acts Sector Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to give his assessment on whether the budget will have an impact on performing arts industries; and to make a statement. (AQW 3307/00) The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr McGimpsey): There were some tax concessions in the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Budget statement of 7 March 2001 but it is too early to assess the impact on the arts sector. There were for instance, tax relief measures on employee training which, could include those working in the creative industries. The Treasury also announced that individuals employed in the sector such as those working in publishing, theatre and film will be able to spread tax payments over a longer period in order to reflect the unpredictable nature of the industry. Otherwise there were few benefits to the performing arts, or indeed, to artists generally. Creative Industries Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to give his assessment on the contribution of creative industries to the cultural and economic performance of Northern Ireland. (AQW 3310/00) Mr McGimpsey: The Creative Industries are now recognised as being a key sector in the new knowledge based economies at a time when traditional sectors of industry are either in decline or becoming increasingly mobile and vulnerable. The Creative Industries build on indigenous talent and skills and are characterised by rapid expansion, high added value and positive social inclusion. It is, therefore, essential that we develop for Northern Ireland strategies and policies which will accelerate the growth of the sector in Northern Ireland and which will build on the talents and skills of our people. We are currently working with Queen’s University to define and measure the creative industries sector in Northern Ireland and initial findings suggest that up to 20,000 people could be employed in industries that fall within the generally accepted sector definition. It is, however, important to recognise that the sector is wide-ranging and it will be necessary to develop strategies that will recognise and respond to the challenges and opportunities faced by sub-sectors ranging from crafts through to film production. One of my Department’s key tasks has been the development, in co-operation with the DETI, DE and DHFETE, of a strategy to unlock the creativity of the people of Northern Ireland and to accelerate the growth of the creative industry sector in the Province. As a first step my Department launched a wide-ranging consultation exercise aimed at helping us identify the most effective strategies with which to develop and implement policy. The purpose and thrust of the consultation process was to be as inclusive as possible and I am delighted to be able to say that the response to the exercise was extremely positive and constructive. On 27 June 2001, I will launch, together with the Ministers of Education, Enterprise Trade and Investment, and Higher and Further Education and Training, ‘Unlocking Creativity – making it happen’ a new strategic document which takes full account of the views and suggestions of all those consulted and which also aims to translate our broad strategic aims and objectives into a plan for action. In the coming months, we will roll out a series of new initiatives aimed specifically at helping Northern Ireland realise its creative potential. I am confident that Northern Ireland can and will benefit significantly from the growth of the creative industry sector, in terms of both economic and cultural development, and I shall be working in co-operation with DETI, DE, and DHFETE to ensure that we maximise the employment which the sector can offer. Creating a Soccer Strategy for Northern Ireland Ms Mary Nelis asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure following the PricewaterhouseCoopers report , "Creating a Soccer Strategy for Northern Ireland, to detail (a) the steps he has taken to address the sectarian issues contained in the report and (b) if he has any plans to re-structure the organisation of soccer. (AQW 3394/00) Mr McGimpsey: The report, Creating a Soccer Strategy for Northern Ireland, Views of the Stakeholders, which was published on 5 February, was the outcome of a consultation exercise commissioned by my Department and was a key stage of the process in working towards a strategy for the sport. It provided an agenda for a Conference Workshop held on 10-12 February at which representatives of the key stakeholders debated the issues facing soccer and developed ideas for the future development of the game. The Advisory Panel, which I established to guide and advise on the process, is currently at the critical stage of working on recommendations. I anticipate that these recommendations will address, among others, issues surrounding sectarianism and the structure and administration of the game. I expect to receive the Panel’s report by the end of the summer and I intend to publish this for consultation, probably in September. The consultation exercise will contribute to the development of a strategy for soccer in Northern Ireland, which I hope to launch before the end of the year. I also met with the Sports Council for Northern Ireland and the Irish Football Association (IFA) to review the events surrounding the international match between Northern Ireland and Norway on 28 February. You may recall that I publicly expressed my deep disgust at the sectarian behaviour of a minority of spectators during the game. Since that meeting the IFA have put in place a range of new measures to help them combat the problem and, to date, these appear to have had a positive effect. Maritime and Industrial Heritage Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail (a) his plans to develop our maritime and industrial heritage and (b) if the water based tourism programme has been finalised. (AQW 3396/00) Mr McGimpsey: (a) MAGNI’s Corporate Plan identifies the establishment of a maritime and industrial museum as one of its leading priorities for development. It is absolutely essential that we capitalise on the economic and educational potential of this country’s maritime and industrial heritage and invest in the development of cultural tourism. I am therefore fully behind MAGNI’s proposals and my officials are working with MAGNI and others to identify how best to establish a museum. A major constraining factor is finance - the maritime museum will cost an estimated £30 million to develop. My Department does not have the resources to allow this project to proceed, and while we will have to be imaginative and creative in identifying sources of funding, I will inevitably have to ask the Assembly for additional resources. I hope that I can count on your support in this. (b) The Monitoring Committee recently agreed details of the complements for all the Peace II measures and these have been formally submitted to the European Union for their comments. The internal mechanisms for the implementation of the measures under Peace II are presently being drawn up. With regard to the Water Based Tourism Measure it is planned to launch an Angling Development Programme in early autumn that will assist in the development of game, coarse and sea angling, improve fisheries habitat and offer assistance to those involved in angling tourism. Simultaneously and under the same Measure, the Department intends launching a programme to grant aid the provision of facilities for the development of water-based recreational tourism. Sports Institute Mr Derek Hussey asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 3146/00, to detail his plans to ensure that those individuals from a disadvantaged background in the west have equality of access to the Sports Institute given the travel distance involved in getting to and from the Jordanstown campus. (AQW 3406/00) Mr McGimpsey: It is anticipated that all athletes in receipt of Sports Council Lottery Revenue support through either ‘Talented Athlete’ or ‘Talented Athlete – Next Generation’ programmes will be eligible for a contribution towards travel costs for specialised approved training at the Sports Institute. Access to the Institute will be determined on the basis of sporting ability/achievement. TOPCarrickfergus College : Post of Principal Mr Roy Beggs asked the Minister of Education whether the NEELB Teaching Appointments Committee considered the minutes of the Carrick College Board of Governors meeting of 24 January 2001 as part of their decision making process; and to make a statement. (AQW 3231/00) The Minister of Education (Mr McGuinness): I have been informed by the North-Eastern Education and Library Board that its Teaching Appointments Committee received an extract from the minutes concerned before they conducted the interviews for the post of principal at Carrickfergus College. I have been assured by the Board that the procedures of its Teaching Appointments Scheme were followed in making this appointment. Annual Review of Special Educational Needs Statements Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Education to detail, pursuant to AQW 2987/00, what safeguards are in place to ensure that annual reviews of special educational needs statements are carried out. (AQW 3337/00) Mr McGuinness: Under special education legislation statements of special educational needs must be reviewed annually. The Education and Library Boards have put arrangements in place to ensure that this happens. They normally inform schools, parents and educational psychologists in the first term of the date by which annual reviews should be carried out. Psychologists or Board Officers attend appropriate review meetings. Reminders are issued to those schools which have not returned their annual review reports by the due date. Reports are monitored for evidence of need for further action. Grant-Aided Schools : Common Formula Mr Gerry McHugh asked the Minister of Education to ensure, with respect to the current consultation on a common formula for grant-aided schools, that schools with a relatively high proportion of pupils suffering from socio-economic disadvantage will incur no loss of funding under whatever common formula is agreed. (AQO 1637/00) Mr McGuinness: Given the differences which exist in current LMS formulae in terms of the both the amount distributed and the means by which it is distributed, it would not be possible to safeguard the position of any school in the move to a common funding formula. Indeed to do so would run counter to the broad thrust of the formula and the key principles on which our proposals have been formulated. However, insofar as schools with large numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds are concerned I am particularly anxious that the formula provides as much support as possible to these needy schools. I have therefore proposed an increase in the share of total funding allocated to TSN from 5% to 5.5%, which will provide a further £4m to help schools provide additional educational support to pupils performing below the expected level while maintaining existing levels of support to schools with substantial numbers of socially disadvantaged pupils. This measure should ensure that schools with a high percentage of socially disadvantaged pupils have the funding they need to meet the needs of those pupils. Schools will also benefit from transitional funding arrangements which will limit any reduction in per capita funding. Threshold Assessment for Teachers Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Education to detail the exact criteria required to qualify for the £2000 threshold payment to teachers. (AQO 1651/00) Mr McGuinness: Teachers who were on point 9 of the teachers’ payscale at 1 September 1999 based on their qualifications and experience are eligible to apply for threshold assessment from September 2000. They must then show on their application form how they meet the four professional standards of:
Inspectorate's Asperger Survey Report Mr Conor Murphy asked the Minister of Education, in view of the findings of the Report on a Survey of Pupils with Asperger Syndrome in Primary and Secondary Schools in Northern Ireland 1999-2000, to detail his plans to ensure that additional resources are directed to meet the requirements of all children with special education needs including the requirements of teachers who work with them. (AQO 1639/00) Mr McGuinness: I have noted the findings of the Inspectorate’s Asperger Survey Report and its very useful recommendations. Before taking further action, however, I would wish also to consider the report of the Task Group on Autism which was set up by my Department in the Autumn to advise on the range of provision for autistic children across the Education and Library Boards. The Group is due to report shortly and will make recommendations about exemplars of good practice, about training needs and about future provision to help promote consistency of approach to identification and service delivery across all ELBs. Targeting Social Need Spending Ms Sue Ramsey asked the Minister of Education to detail (a) the research he has undertaken to assess the impact of Targeting Social Need spending since 1993; and (b) the steps he is taking to ensure that New TSN funding is directed to where it is most urgently needed and most effectively deployed. (AQO 1636/00) Mr McGuinness: My Department published a report on 14 June 2001, which for the years 1994/95 onwards outlines participation in education by children of pre-school age, explores the academic achievements of school leavers and considers outcomes for school leavers in terms of their first destination on leaving school. Whilst the report does not attempt to isolate the effects of Targeting Social Need spending it does indicate the progress that has been made and the scale of what still has to be done. As part of a research project funded by the Department on the Impact of Formula Funding and Local Management of Schools, schools were asked what proportion of their budget was spent tackling problems of social/educational disadvantage, and what specific action the school had taken to deal with problems relating to social deprivation. In addition there has been research into a range of policy initiatives which impact on children from disadvantaged backgrounds. This includes a value added analysis of pupils and schools performance under the Raising School Standards Initiative, an evaluation of the impact of the first two years of Reading Recovery, a longitudinal evaluation of Reading Recovery and evaluations of pilots of summer literacy and numeracy schemes in 1998 and 1999. The steps that my Department are taking in relation to targeting social need are set out in the recently published New TSN Annual Report "Making it Work". Progress towards the actions and targets contained in the report are monitored quarterly and a progress report on key actions points is forwarded to the Executive Committee through the Office of First Minister/Deputy First Minister. The action plan covers all of my Department’s business areas and demonstrates that the education service already targets social need in a range of ways. LMS formulae continue to be one of the most significant mechanisms for distributing TSN funding to school budgets. It is essential however that resources are directed where they are most needed. In April I published a consultation document in which I set out proposals for a Common LMS Formula for Grant Aided Schools and included in these were several relating to New TSN. TOPEnterprise, Trade and Investment Foot-and-Mouth Disease : Impact on Tourism Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment whether any further assessment has been made on the effects of the foot-and-mouth outbreak on tourism. (AQW 3312/00) The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Sir Reg Empey): No further information on the effects of the foot and mouth outbreak on tourism is available since my response to Assembly Written Question No: 3250/00 on 19 June 2001. A number of measures are, however, in place to assess the impact of Foot and Mouth Disease. Textile and Clothing Industry : Electricity Price Increases Mr Derek Hussey asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail his response to the Director of the Northern Ireland Textiles Association concerning increasing electricity costs to the textile and clothing industry. (AQW 3340/00) Sir Reg Empey: I fully understand the concerns of the Northern Ireland Textiles and Apparel Association Ltd about the implications of recent electricity price increases for the textiles and clothing industry, and have written in some detail to the Association describing a number of ongoing measures aimed at bringing about reductions in these costs. For the benefit of MLAs, I am arranging for copies of this correspondence to be placed in the Assembly Library. Trading Difficulties : North Belfast Mr Alban Maginness asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to take urgent action to address the plight of traders on or about the Crumlin Road, Belfast who have been adversely affected by the recent disturbances in North Belfast; and make a statement. (AQW 3512/00) Sir Reg Empey: I recognise the difficulties faced by traders and SMEs based in and around the Crumlin Road, particularly at this time. LEDU has helped fund economic development officer posts at the North Belfast Partnership Board and there are a number of other economic development officers employed by other organisations working in the area. There are also 2 Local Enterprise Agencies, Brookfield and North City, operating in the North Belfast area. LEDU will be contact with these organisations reminding them of the need to maintain contact at grass root level with the traders and their organisations to help identify the issues facing the businesses at this sensitive time. If there is a need for business advice these organisations will be able to sign post the individual businesses to LEDU, ASPIRE and other appropriate services. I am aware of difficulties in a number of interface areas in North Belfast and LEDU will be monitoring the situation closely. Should the situation deteriorate LEDU and other Departments have continuity plans where those businesses experiencing severe difficulties will be able to make contact with the appropriate Department. TOP"The Sly Fox" : Extension Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister of the Environment to explain, pursuant to AQW 2710/00, why the extension to 'The Sly Fox', Moy, County Tyrone "did not make an undue impact on the scale or proportions of the existing property" given that the licensed allowable capacity of the premises rose from 115 persons to 350 persons. (AQW 3316/00) The Minister of the Environment (Mr Foster): The increase in the floor area of the original building, approved under the planning permission which issued in March 1999, has allowed an increase in the licensed capacity of the premises. However, a large increase in the floor area and the capacity of a premises does not necessarily result in an unacceptable impact on the existing property, i.e. the original building. The development takes the form of a two storey rear extension to an existing three storey property. When viewed from the front of the property at The Diamond / Killyman Street, the extension is largely hidden from view and does not have any significant visual impact on the original building. It is therefore judged as having no undue impact. My Department’s Historic Monuments and Buildings Branch consented to the granting of Listed Building Consent for the extension to this listed building. Such consent would not have been given to a development which had an undue impact on the existing property. Telecommunications Equipment : Planning Policy Mr Mervyn Carrick asked the Minister of the Environment if he has any plans to introduce precautionary planning criteria in respect of potential health hazards associated with the erection of telecommunication masts/antennae. (AQW 3317/00) Mr Foster: The health issues arising from telecommunications equipment are a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. Their advice is taken into account when planning policy is framed. Following recent consultation, that Department confirmed that, as regards individual masts, where the emissions from the mast are within the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection guidelines, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety would not raise any further questions in regard to health. This is on the basis that exposures to radio frequency radiation would be small fractions of those permitted by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection Guidelines. However, you will be aware that my Department is in the process of preparing legislation to give effect to the Executive Committee’s recent decision that full planning permission should be introduced for all new masts. It is anticipated that this legislation will be introduced later this year. Planning Guidance : Public Houses Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister of the Environment to give his assessment of planning guidance relating to Public Houses and Night-clubs and to detail the steps he is taking to protect nearby residents from an unacceptable increase in noise, disturbance and anti-social behaviour; and to make a statement. (AQW 3318/00) Mr Foster: Planning guidance for public houses is contained in my Department’s Development Control Advice Note 7 (DCAN 7), which is designed to provide advice on the planning criteria to be applied when an application for this form of development is being considered. This guidance has been used extensively by my Department in determining such applications since its introduction in 1983. My Department is currently carrying out a review of its existing Development Control Advice Notes, and DCAN 7 will be included as part of this exercise. Preliminary work on revising DCAN 7 will commence towards the end of this financial year, and will involve a process of public consultation. "The Sly Fox" : Noise Report Mrs Joan Carson asked the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQW 2710/00, to indicate what account he took of the Principal Environmental Health Officer's response to the Planning Office on 7 August 1998 in relation to the application for an extension to 'The Sly Fox', Moy, County Tyrone. (AQW 3319/00) Mr Foster: Following receipt of the Principal Environmental Health Officer’s comments of 7 August 1998, officials advised the applicant’s agent on 11 September 1998 of the need to submit a noise report on the basis of the Principal Environmental Health Officer’s understanding that the extension was to be used for entertainment purposes. Discussions subsequently took place between the Environmental Health Office and the applicant on this matter. The discussions concluded with the submission of a letter by the applicant’s agent to the Divisional Planning Office on 8 October 1998 which confirmed that there would be no change to the existing entertainment arrangements in the original bar. The area for live music in the original premises would continue to be used, and the new areas within the extended premises would be used for bar/restaurant purposes. This situation is confirmed on the approved drawings. In the circumstances, officials were satisfied that a noise report was not necessary. The Member will be aware that Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council is the responsible authority for the control of any potential noise nuisance associated with entertainment within the premises. Reducing River Pollution Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of the Environment to detail his plans to reduce the risk of river pollution. (AQW 3347/00) Mr Foster: The Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) of my Department pursues a policy of pollution prevention which aims to reduce the number of river pollution incidents. The current target is to reduce the number of high and medium severity incidents by 20% over the period 1996 to 2003. A number of approaches to this are being undertaken, including:
Extra powers to prevent pollution will become available to the Department under the Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999. These will include the power to serve enforcement notices on industry and the introduction of Regulations to control the storage of slurry, silage and agricultural fuel oil. Inver River : Vegetation Damage Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of the Environment to detail what action is being taken to limit the damage to bank side vegetation as a result of the recent pollution incident on the Inver River, Larne. (AQW 3348/00) Mr Foster: A fish kill in the Inver River was reported to the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) of my Department on Sunday 27 May 2001. The incident was investigated by staff from EHS and the Fisheries Conservancy Board. The source of the pollution was identified on Sunday 27 May and by that stage was no longer causing a polluting discharge to the river. The damage to the bank side vegetation had already occurred at the time of investigation. With the polluting discharge having stopped, no further damage is anticipated. The Chief Environmental Health Officer of Larne Borough Council was informed about the incident and the Council initiated the appropriate warnings for members of the public to keep away from the river. Inver River : Fish Kill Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of the Environment to detail the damage caused to fish and invertebrate life as a result of the recent pollution incident on the Inver River, Larne. (AQW 3349/00) Mr Foster: A fish kill on the Inver River was reported to Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) of my Department on Sunday 27 May 2001. The incident was investigated by staff from EHS and the Fisheries Conservancy Board. The dead fish were counted, and assessed by age, on Sunday 27 May. A preliminary count of fish indicated that approximately 1500 brown trout and sea trout were killed ranging in age from last years fry up to fish of 5 years old. The results of this survey will be used to establish the numbers of fish required to restock the river. Restocking also has to take into account expected survival rates of hatchery-reared fish. A biological survey was also undertaken on behalf of EHS to assess the impact on the invertebrate life within the river. There was a clear impact at the point of entry to the tributary via which the pollution entered the river, but the impact on the Inver River itself appears to be slight. The full results of the survey are currently being collated. The source of the pollution was traced and statutory samples were lifted with a view to prosecution. A file is being prepared for submission to the Department of Public Prosecutions Office. It is therefore inappropriate for me to comment further at this stage on the specific details of this particular investigation. Driving Tests : People With Reading Difficulties Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister of the Environment to make it his policy to introduce special driving test rules for people with reading difficulties. (AQW 3366/00) Mr Foster: For the practical driving test, a candidate must be able to read a vehicle number plate from a distance of 20.5 metres in good daylight. If a candidate needs glasses or contact lenses to do this, they must be worn throughout the test and at all times whilst driving. I have no plans to change this requirement. As regards the driving theory test, special facilities are available to ensure that candidates with reading difficulties are not disadvantaged. The theory test is now delivered via a touchscreen computer system. People with dyslexia or with literacy or learning disabilities are allowed extra time to complete the test, if they require it. An audio voice-over is also available to assist comprehension of on-screen material. TOPAggregate Levy Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail what meetings have taken place with the Chancellor of the Exchequer regarding the proposed aggregate levy. (AQW 3304/00) The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Mr Durkan): I would refer to the answer on this subject that I gave on 7 June 2001. Peace II : Intermediary Funding Bodies Ms Patricia Lewsley asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to make a statement on the outcome of the tendering procedure for intermediary funding bodies under the Peace II Operational Programme. (AQW 3339/00) Mr Durkan: The outcome of the tendering procedure for Intermediary Funding Bodies under PEACE II was announced on Friday 8 June 2001 by the Special EU Programmes Body, which is responsible for the overall management of the Operational Programme. Contract negotiations will now begin between the recommended organisations/consortia and the Programmes Body, in consultation with the relevant lead Government Departments. Final decisions on appointments will depend upon the outcome of these detailed contract negotiations. The areas of activity of PEACE II which were put out to tender, the amounts of funding allocated and the recommended organisations / consortia are set out below:- PEACE II: APPOINTMENT OF INTERMEDIARY FUNDING BODIES (IFBs) TENDER EVALUATIONS – RECOMMENDATIONS (A) NORTHERN IRELAND
Health, Social Services and Public Safety Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1972 Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail whether she has any plans to repeal Article 100 of The Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1972. (AQW 3321/00) The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Ms de Brún): I do not have any plans at present to repeal Article 100 of The Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1972. Níl pleananna agam faoi láthair chun Airteagal 100 den Ordú 1972 Sláinte agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta Pearsanta (TÉ) a aisghairm. Improving Services for Children and Their Families Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the steps she is taking to ensure parity of spend on family and childcare services in Northern Ireland compared to England and Wales. (AQW 3325/00) Ms de Brún: In 2000/01 my Department was able to make an extra £10 million available to Health and Social Services Boards to continue the development of children's services. In 2001/02 so far, a further £5.3 million has been secured for these services and more is being sought. My Department has also been successful in securing a total of £15.5 million over the three years 2001/02 to 2003/04 from the Executive Programme Funds for a variety of initiatives aimed at improving services for children and their families. To achieve parity with the level of spend in England and Wales considerable additional resources will be required and I will continue to do all I can to secure the necessary resources to provide the best possible level of services here. I 2000/01 bhí an Roinn s’agamsa ábalta £10 milliún breise a chur ar fáil do Bhoird Shláinte agus Sheirbhísí Sóisialta le forbairt seirbhísí páistí a leanstan ar aghaidh. I 2001/02, fuarthas £5.3 milliún breise go dtí seo do na seirbhísí seo agus tá tuilleadh eile á iarraidh. D’éirigh leis an Roinn s’agamsa £15.5 milliún san iomlán a fháil fosta do na trí bliana ó 2001/02 go 2003/04 ó Chistí Chlár an Fheidhmeannais le haghaidh scéimeanna éagsúla dírithe ar fheabhsú seirbhísí do pháistí agus dá dteaghlaigh. Leis an chomhleibhéal caiteachais i Sasana agus sa Bhreatain Bheag a bhaint amach, beidh cuid mhór acmhainní breise de dhíth agus leanfaidh mé ar aghaidh ar féidir liom a dhéanamh a dhéanamh leis na hacmhainní a bheas riachtanach leis an leibhéal seirbhísí is fearr agus is féidir a sholáthar anseo a chinntiú. Child Abuse Strategy : Support for Parents Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include substantial investment in supporting parents and in the promotion of parenting. (AQW 3326/00) Ms de Brún: I agree that support for parents is an important element of a child abuse strategy. My Department has consistently promoted the need for parental support and the promotion of good parenting. This is demonstrated by the funding provided for a number of organisations, programmes and initiatives, including the Sure Start programme and the Parents Advice Centre (PAC) which provides a confidential advice and counselling service to parents. Alongside the four Boards, my Department also provides funds to Gingerbread, Homestart and Lifestart all of which provide support for parents. In total, some £278,000 has been made available in the current year to assist in supporting parents and promoting parenting skills. Aontaím gur gné thábhachtach de straitéis drochíde ar pháistí í tacaíocht do thuismitheoirí. Chuir an Roinn s’agamsa an gá le tacaíocht do thuismitheoirí agus cur chun cinn tuismíochta maithe chun cinn i gcónaí. Léirítear seo tríd an mhaoiniú tugtha do roinnt eagraíochtaí, clár agus tionscnamh, ina measc an clár Sure Start agus Ionad Comhairle na dTuismitheoirí (ICT) a thugann comhairle rúnda agus a sholáthraíonn seirbhís chomhairle do thuismitheoirí. Mar aon leis na ceithre Bhord, tugann an Roinn s’agamsa maoinithe fosta do Gingerbread, Homestart agus do Lifestart a sholáthraíonn uile tacaíocht do thuismitheoirí. Cuireadh thart faoi £278,000 san iomlán ar fáil sa bhliain reatha airgeadais chun cuidiú le tacaíocht do thuismitheoirí agus le cur chun cinn scileanna tuismíochta. Child Abuse Strategy : Child Deaths Review Team Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include a Child Deaths Review Team. (AQW 3327/00) Ms de Brún: I am very concerned about child abuse and I attach the highest priority to improving safeguards for children. I am aware of the NSPCC recommendation for the establishment of child death review teams in the Society’s ‘Out of Sight’ report. My Department will be studying the report and its recommendations very carefully and will consider this particular recommendation. Tá mé iontach buartha faoi dhrochíde ar pháistí agus is ríthábhachtach liom mar thosaíocht í feabhsú i gcosaint páistí. Tá moladh an CNCCP i dtuairisc ‘As Amharc’ an Chumainn go gcuirfí foirne athbhreithithe ar bhásanna páistí ar bun ar eolas agam. Beidh an Roinn s’agamsa ag scrúdú na tuairisce agus a moltaí go han-chúramach agus déanfaidh sí machnamh ar an mholadh ar leith seo. Child Abuse Strategy : A&E Staff Training Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include protocols and robust training for all A&E staff in assessing suspicious child injuries. (AQW 3328/00) Ms de Brún: The issues of staff training and Trust protocols are dealt with in the draft Departmental child protection guidance ‘Co-operating to Safeguard Children’ which is due to be issued for equality impact assessment consultation shortly. The draft guidance makes specific reference to staff in hospital accident & emergency departments who have a vital role to play in the detection of child abuse. There is already an onus on every hospital Trust to put protocols in place which enable staff to act appropriately when faced with a child that may have been abused. These must include the designation of senior medical and nursing personnel with distinct child protection responsibilities and effective communication channels within the Trust and between the Trust and other agencies including social services. Staff training in abuse detection and in child protection procedures generally, particularly in an accident & emergency setting, is essential. Child protection training is the responsibility of the designated child protection doctor and/or nurse. Déileáiltear le ceisteanna oiliúna na foirne agus prótacal Iontaobhas i ndréacht-threoir na Roinne ar chosaint páistí ‘Ag Comhoibriú le Páistí a Chosaint’ atá le cur amach le haghaidh comhairlithe ar mheasúnú éifeachta comhionannais ar ball. Déanann an dréacht-threoir tagairt ar leith do na foirne i ranna timpistí agus éigeandálaí otharlann a bhfuil ról tábhachtach acu i bhfáil amach drochíde ar pháistí. Is ar gach otharlann atá an fhreagracht cheana féin le prótacail, a chuidíonn leis an fhoireann an gníomh ceart a dhéanamh agus iad ag déileáil le páiste arbh fhéidir go ndearnadh drochíde air, a chur i bhfeidhm. Caithfidh siad seo ainmniú foirne sinsearaí leighis agus altrachta le freagrachtaí ar leith acu as cosaint páistí, agus bealaí éifeachtacha cumarsáide laistigh den Iontaobhas agus idir an tIontaobhas agus gníomhaireachtaí chomh maith le seirbhísí sóisialta, a ghlacadh san áireamh. Tá oiliúint na foirne i bhfáil amach drochíde agus i ngnáthaimh chosaint páistí i gcoitinne riachtanach, go háirithe i suíomh timpistí agus éigeandálaí. An gnáthdhochtúir agus/nó an t-altra chosaint páistí ainmnithe atá freagrach as oiliúint ar chosaint páistí. Child Abuse Strategy : Quality Protects Initiative Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include the implementation and funding of a Quality Protects initiative. (AQW 3329/00) Ms de Brún: My Department is currently developing a consultation paper on the future of child care services, as part of the creation of a child care strategy. Consultation on the children’s services strategy will begin later this year. The strategy will address the broad range of issues in Quality Protects while looking at the National Children’s Strategy in the South. It will draw on work in hand or already completed for example in relation to residential care, fostering, adoption and leaving and after care. Tá an Roinn s’agamsa ag forbairt páipéir chomhairlithe ar thodhchaí seirbhísí cúram páistí faoi láthair, mar chuid de chruthú straitéise cúram páistí. Tosóidh comhairliú ar straitéis sheirbhísí páistí níos moille i mbliana. Tabharfaidh an straitéis faoi réimse leathan ceisteanna i gCosnaíonn Cáilíocht agus í ag amharc ar Straitéis Náisiúnta na bPáistí sa Deisceart. Bainfidh sí úsáid as obair atá idir lámha nó obair atá déanta cheana féin, mar shampla, i dtaca le Cúram Cónaithe, altramas, uchtúil agus fágáil agus le hiarchúram. Child Abuse Strategy : Co-operation of Professionals and Agencies Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include regulations to ensure all department disciplines, including GP's, co-operate with Section 12 reviews under Co-operating to Protect Children. (AQW 3330/00) Ms de Brún: The co-operation of professionals and agencies involved in a case, which has resulted in the death or serious injury of a child, is imperative. If a case management review cannot be successfully completed because of lack of co-operation on the part of any individual or organisation, the Department has the power to instigate an enquiry under Article 152 of the Children Order. Tá comhoibriú gairmithe agus gníomhaireachtaí a bhfuil baint acu le cás ar tháinig bás nó gortú tromchúiseach páiste as, práinneach. Munar féidir athbhreithniú ar láimhseáil cháis a chur i gcrích go rathúil de dheasca easpa comhoibrithe duine aonair nó eagraíochta, tá sé ar chumas mo Roinne tús a chur le fiosrúchán faoi Alt 152 den Ord Páistí. Child Abuse : Strategy Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 2995/00, to make it her policy to introduce a comprehensive and detailed strategy to deal with the complex issue of child abuse in Northern Ireland. (AQW 3331/00) Ms de Brún: I refer the member to the Answer to AQW 3329/00 Luaim don Bhall an freagra a thug mé ar AQW 3329/00. Child Abuse Strategy: Education Programme for Parents Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include an education programme for parents on keeping their children safe in the community and be designed to dispel myths surrounding registered sex offenders. (AQW 3332/00) Ms de Brún: I firmly believe that a child abuse strategy must be underpinned by a programme of education both for parents and the wider community. My Department currently funds the ‘Our Duty to Care’ project within the Volunteer Development Agency. One of the project’s most recent initiatives was the production of a parent leaflet – ‘Have Fun & Be Safe’ - which was distributed widely through the schools network. The leaflet offers guidance to parents and carers to help them choose children’s activities in a way which maximises their safety. In addition, my Department has contributed to a guidance manual for the assessment and management of risk of sex offenders issued by the NIO. Creidim go daingean go gcaithfidh straitéis drochíde ar pháistí bheith neartaithe trí chlár oideachais do thuismitheoirí agus don ghnáthphobal araon. Faoi láthair, maoiníonn an Roinn s’agamsa an scéim ‘Ár nDualgas le hAire a Thabhairt’ laistigh den Ghníomhaireacht Forbartha Saorálaithe. Ba é ceann de na tionscnaimh is déanaí de chuid na scéime ná an bhileog - ‘Déan Spraoi agus Bí Slán’ a chur amach do thuismitheoirí – a scaipeadh go forleathan tríd an ghréasán scoileanna. Tugann an bhileog treoir do thuismitheoirí agus d’fheighlithe chun cuidiú leo gníomhaíochtaí páistí a roghnú ar dhóigh a uasmhéadaíonn a sábháilteacht. Ina theannta sin, chuir an Roinn s’agamsa le lámhleabhar treorach curtha amach ag OTÉ do mheasúnú agus do láimhseáil an bhaoil ó choirigh ghnéis. Child Abuse Strategy : Statistical Information Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include a more comprehensive provision of statistical information on children's lives and well being. (AQW 3333/00) Ms de Brún: The draft inter-agency child protection guidance ‘Co-operating to Safeguard Children’ sets out a comprehensive list of statistical information which should be collected and published in the form of an annual report. Any further gaps which may exist in the capture of good quality statistical data will be considered in the context of an overall children’s services strategy. Leagann an dréacht-threoir idirghníomhaireachta ar chosaint páistí ‘Ag Comhoibriú le Páistí a Chosaint’ liosta cuimsitheach eolais staitisticiúil amach a ba chóir a bhailiú agus a fhoilsiú i bhfoirm tuairisce bliantúla. Déanfar machnamh ar thuilleadh bearnaí ar bith eile ann go fóill i bhfáil sonraí staitisticiúla de cháilíocht mhaith i gcomhthéacs straitéise iomláine seirbhísí páistí. Child Abuse Strategy : Vetting Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy that the components of any strategy on child abuse should include robust arrangements in the vetting of those who work with children that go beyond the provision of the Protection of Children Act in England. (AQW 3334/00) Ms de Brún: My Department currently operates a vetting service, the Pre-employment Consultancy Service (PECS), to voluntary and statutory organisations seeking to employ individuals to work with children and adults with a learning disability. We intend to place the service on a statutory basis. Proposals for a Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults Bill will be put forward for public consultation shortly and we will be interested to hear views as to how we might improve current vetting arrangements Tá seirbhís chigireachta, an tSeirbhís Chomhairleach Réamhfhostaíochta (CSRF), i bhfeidhm ag an Roinn s’agamsa faoi láthair thar ceann eagraíochtaí deonacha agus reachtúla ag iarraidh daoine a fhostú le hobair le páistí agus le daoine fásta le míchumas foghlama. Tá sé ar intinn againn na seirbhísí a sholáthar ar bhonn reachtúil. Molfar moltaí le haghaidh Bille Cosaint Páistí agus Daoine Leochaileacha do chomhairliú phoiblí ar ball agus beidh suim againn na tuairimí ar an dóigh arbh fhéidir linn socruithe reatha cigireachta a fheabhsú a chluinstin. IVF Treatment Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (a) if IVF treatment is currently available in Northern Ireland; and (b) on which date it became available. (AQW 3335/00) Ms de Brún: None of the Health and Social Services Boards commissions IVF services at present. Treatment is available only on a private patient basis. I announced on 24 April that sub-fertility services, including in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment, would be the subject of a consultation exercise later this year. The consultation will address issues such as the cost of IVF and the eligibility for access to treatment. I also announced that an interim service, including the provision of a limited number of full treatment cycles of IVF, would be put in place while longer-term issues were being considered. The development of this service is now being addressed and I hope that it will become operational later this year. Ní choimisiúnaíonn Bord Sláinte agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta ar bith seirbhísí TIV i láthair na huaire. Níl cóireáil ar fáil ach ar bhonn othair phríobháidigh. D’fhógair mé ar an 24 Aibreán go mbeadh seirbhísí fothoirchithe, cóireáil thoirchiú in-vítrea (TIV) san áireamh, faoi réir cleachtaidh chomhairlithe níos moille i mbliana. Rachaidh an comhairliú i gceann ceisteanna amhail costas TIV agus teideal cóireáil a fháil. D’fhógair mé fosta go gcuirfí seirbhís eatramhach, soláthar roinnt tréimhsí teoranta cóireála iomláine TIV san áireamh, i bhfeidhm agus machnamh á dhéanamh ar cheisteanna fadtéarmacha. Táthar ag dul i gceann forbairt na seirbhíse seo anois agus tá súil agam go mbeidh sí ag feidhmiú níos moille i mbliana. IVF Treatment : Criteria Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the criteria required to receive IVF treatment. (AQW 3336/00) Ms de Brún: I refer the Member to my answer to AQW 3335/00. Luaim don Bhall an freagra a thug mé ar AQW 3335/00. Mileage Allowances : Social Workers/Health Visitors/Community Nurses Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (a) what assessment she has made of payments to health visitors and community nurses for the use of private cars on health service business (b) the mileage allowance for (i) social workers (ii) health visitors (iii) community nurses and (c) what steps she is taking to ensure equality of payment for mileage allowances between there vocations. (AQW 3344/00) Ms de Brún: (a) I have examined the arrangements for payment of mileage allowances and the amounts paid to health visitors and community nurses who use their cars on health service business. Under the Health Services Agreement contained in the Finance Act 1971 such staff are required to be paid in parity with the rates of pay and conditions of service applied to their counterparts in the NHS. (b) The pay and terms and conditions of service, including mileage allowances, payable to social work staff are linked to those of similar staff employed in local authority services in GB. The essential user rates are paid to those staff whose duties are of such a nature that it is essential for them to have a motor car at their disposal whenever required. The Essential User rates are:
Casual user rates are payable to social work staff where it is merely desirable that a car should be available when required. The Casual User Rates are:
The terms and conditions of service of health visitors and community nurses provide that an employing authority may offer an official vehicle to an employee whom they require to be mobile and where they deem it is in the interest of the service to do so. Where an employing authority deems that it is uneconomic or is unable to offer a vehicle the employee may be paid a regular car users allowance if defined criteria in relation to distance and time spent travelling are met. Certain long serving staff have the option of an official vehicle or to continue being paid the regular user rates. The Regular User Rates are:
Health visitors and community nurses who are not classified as "Regular Car Users" but use their car in the course of their employment are entitled to standard mileage rates. The Standard Mileage Rates are:
A Public Transport Rate of 23p per mile is payable to those health visitors and community nurses who refuse the offer of an official vehicle. (c) The terms and conditions of service of all staff will be the subject of discussions my Department and representatives of employers and staff organisations will be having on the implications for the HPSS arising out of Agenda for Change-Modernising the NHS pay system. (a) Scrúdaigh mé na socruithe d’íocaíocht liúntas míleáiste agus na suimeanna íoctha do chuairteoirí sláinte agus d’altraí pobail a úsáideann a ngluaisteáin agus iad i mbun gnó seirbhíse sláinte. Faoin Aontú Seirbhísí Sláinte san Acht Airgeadais 1971 ní mór an fhoireann sin a íoc cothrom le rátaí íocaíochta agus le coinníollacha seirbhíse a gcomhghleacaithe sa SNS. (b) Tá pá, téarmaí agus coinníollacha seirbhíse, liúntais mhíleáiste san áireamh, íoctha d’oibrithe sóisialta ceangailte le pá, téarmaí agus coinníollacha foirne cosúla eile fostaithe i seirbhísí údaráis áitiúil sa Bhreatain Mhór. Íoctar na rátaí úsáideoirí riachtanacha don fhoireann sin ar gné riachtanach ar leith dá ndualgais í gluaisteán a bheith acu nuair atá sé de dhíth. Seo a leanas na Rátaí Úsáideoirí Riachtanacha:
Íoctar rátaí úsáideoirí ócáideacha d’oibrithe sóisialta nuair nach bhfuil sé ach inmhianaithe go gcuirfí gluaisteán ar fáil nuair a bheadh sé de dhíth. Seo a leanas na Rátaí Úsáideoirí Ócáideacha:
I dtéarmaí agus i gcoinníollacha seirbhíse cuairteoirí sláinte agus altraí pobail tá foráil ann go dtairgfeadh an t-údarás fostaithe feithicil oifigiúil d’fhostaí a n-iarrann siad air/uirthi le bheith gluaisteach agus a síleann siad go bhfuil sí ar mhaithe leis an tseirbhís sin a dhéanamh. Áit a síleann údarás fostaithe go bhfuil sé neamheacnamaíoch nó neamhábalta feithicil a thairiscint don fhostaí, d’fhéadfaí liúntas úsáideoirí rialta gluaisteáin a íoc don fhostaí má chomhlíontar critéir áirithe maidir le fad agus le ham caite ag taistil. Tá rogha ag foireann fhadfhostaithe áirithe feithicil oifigiúil a bheith acu nó íocaíocht ar rátaí úsáideoirí rialta a fháil go fóill. Seo a leanas na Rátaí Úsáideoirí Rialta:
Tá cuairteoirí sláinte agus altraí pobail, a úsáideann a ngluaisteáin le linn a bhfostaíochta agus nach rangaítear mar "Úsáideoirí Rialta Gluaisteáin", i dteideal rátaí caighdeánacha míleáiste. Seo a leanas na Rátaí Caighdeánacha Míleáiste:
Íoctar Ráta Iompair Phoiblí de 23p an míle do na cuairteoirí sláinte agus do na haltraí pobail sin a dhiúltaíonn tairiscint feithicle oifigiúla. (c) Beidh téarmaí agus coinníollacha seirbhíse gach foireann ábhar na gcaibidlí a bheas an Roinn s’agamsa chomh maith le hionadaithe eagraíochtaí fostóirí agus oibrithe ag déanamh ar na himpleachtaí do na SSSP de bharr Clár d’Athrú – Ag Tabhairt Chóras Íocaíochta na SNS Suas Chun Dáta. Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre Statistics Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (a) the incidence rate for each of the following in the last five years (i) methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (ii) necrotising fasciitis (iii) Streptococcus A; (b) which Trusts have been affected by these diseases over the same period (c) what steps are being taken to eradicate them and (d) what guidelines have been issued to Trusts in respect of these diseases. (AQW 3345/00) Ms de Brún: (a) The positive laboratory isolates for MRSA and Streptococcus A reported to the Communicable Disease Surveillance Centre(CDSC) for each of the last five years were as follows:-
Necrotising fasciitis is an extremely rare condition. It is not notifiable and data is not recorded routinely. (b) These figures are reported on a hospital laboratory basis and not on a hospital of origin basis. The laboratories reporting these infections during the year 2000 were as follows: Altnagelvin, Antrim, Belfast City, Causeway, Craigavon, Erne, Mater, Musgrave Park, Royal Victoria Bacteriology Laboratory and The Ulster. (c&d) It would be virtually impossible to eradicate these diseases as they are almost an integral part of the human flora of bacteria. Both staphlylococcus A and streptococcus A are carried in the noses and throats of a significant proportion of the general population without causing any symptoms of illness. The Department’s primary concern is, therefore, to minimise hospital acquired infection and the development of antimicrobial resistance. To this end in 1997 detailed guidance on hospital infection control was issued by the Clinical Resource Efficiency Support Team (CREST). In April 2000 my Department, in a circular to the HPSS, set out a programme of action to be undertaken by the HPSS in the area of infection control, surveillance and antimicrobial prescribing. The present reporting of MRSA and Streptococcus A is done on a voluntary basis but in line with the Department's "Priorities for Action", Trusts are now required, from this year, to report on Bacteraemia rates, including MRSA, in acute facilities. From this year, 2001/2002, funding is being made available to the CDSC and the Royal Group of Hospitals to carry out increased surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and hospital infection on a regional basis. The Department is also presently working on preparation of guidance to go out to the HPSS about standards of environmental cleanliness which will focus on the need for strict standards of hygiene and infection control. (a) Seo a leanas aonaránuithe deimhneacha saotharlainne do MRSA agus Streipteacocas A a tuairscíodh don Ionad Airdeallach Galar Teagmhálach (IAGT) do na cúig bliana deireanacha:-
Is fíorannamh a thagtar ar Necrotising fasciitis. Ní gá é a chur in iúl agus ní dhéantar taifead ar shonraí go rialta. (b) Tuairiscítear na figiúirí ar bhonn saotharlann otharlainne agus ní ar bhonn otharlainne as ar tháinig sé. Seo a leanas na saotharlanna a thuairiscigh na galair seo le linn na bliana 2000:- Alt na nGealbhan, Aontroim, Cathair Bhéal Feirste, An Clochán, Craigavon, An Éirne, Mater, Páirc Musgrave, Saotharlann Baictéiríocha Otharlann Ríoga Victeoiria agus Otharlann Uladh. (c&d) Is ar éigean a thiocfadh deireadh iomlán a chur leis na galair seo mar tá siad a bheag nó a mhór mar pháirt chomhtháite den fhásra duine de bhaictéir . Iompraítear stafalacocas A agus Streipteacocas A araon i ngaosán agus sceadamán líon suntasach den daonra ginearálta gan chomhartha tinnis a léiriú. Is í príomhaidhm na Roinne, mar sin de, galar faighte in otharlann agus forbairt friotaíochta frithmhiocróbaí a íoslaghdú. Chuige sin d’éisigh an Fhoireann Tacaíochta Éifeacht Achmainní Cliniciúla (FTÉAC) miontreoir ar shrianadh ionfhabhtú otharlainne. I Mí Aibreáin 2000 leag an Roinn s’agam, in imlitir do na SSSP, clár gníomhaíochta amach a bhí le tabhairt faoi ag an SSSP sa réimse srianta ionfhabhtaithe, in airdeallach agus ordú frithmhiocróbach. Tuairiscítear MRSA agus Streipteacocas A ar bhonn deonaigh ag teacht le ‘Tosaíochtaí le hAghaidh Gnímh’ na Roinne, is gá d’Iontaobhais, ón bhliain seo, rátaí Baictéaraemachta, MRSA san áireamh, a thuairsciú i ngéaracmhainní. Ón bhliain seo, 2001/2002, cuirfear maoiniú ar fáil don IAGT agus don Ghrúpa Ríoga Otharlann chun tuilleadh airdill a dhéanamh ar fhriotaíocht fhrithmhiocróbach agus ionfhabhtú otharlainne ar bhonn reigiúnach. Tá an Roinn faoi láthair ag obair ullmhúchán comhairle le dul amach chuig na SSSP faoi chaighdeáin ghlaineachta sa timpeallacht a dhíreofar ar an ghá do ghéarchaighdeáin shláinteachais agus shrianta ionfhabhtaithe. TOPHigher and Further Education, Training and Employment Graduate Employment in Northern Ireland Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment to detail the steps he is taking to encourage our most talented students to continue their careers within Northern Ireland. (AQW 3320/00) The Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment (Dr Farren): The best and most obvious way to encourage the graduates of our Higher and Further Education system to continue their careers in Northern Ireland is to provide them with the jobs and post graduate opportunities which best engage their skills. Those issues are addressed in Programme for Government and in Strategy 2010. For those who do not immediately progress into employment or post graduate places my Department provides a range of opportunities most notably 250 places on an ICT conversion programme ‘Rapid Advancement Programme’ and 250 places on a management training programme ‘Premier’. Labour Relations Agency : Review Mr John Dallat asked the Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment if has any plans to carry out a review of the Labour Relations Agency. (AQW 3395/00) Dr Farren: The second Quinquennial Review of the Labour Relations Agency is now due. Consultation will begin shortly, with the review planned to start in September, after the consultation period has ended. Taskforce on Employability and Long Term Unemployment Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment whether the task force on employability and long term unemployment has been set up and to detail its membership, remit and funding arrangements. (AQW 3399/00) Dr Farren: The Taskforce to date has met on three occasions and includes senior representation from across Northern Ireland Departments, the Northern Ireland Office and the Equality Commission for NI. It aims to prepare an Action Plan, integrating actions across Government departments and agencies, by 31 March 2002. Where resources are needed I hope that we can work in a collaborative way, accessing available resources to achieve common objectives. New Deal 25 + : Targets Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Higher and Further Education, Training and Employment to state which of the New Deal 25+ targets have actually been met, as set out in the Programme for Government for achievement by April 2001. (AQW 3411/00) Dr Farren: In the Programme for Government there are three targets relating to the New Deal 25+ all of which have been achieved. The programme is tailored to the needs of Northern Ireland in that it has early entry provision for certain groups including lone parents; it provides for up to 26 weeks work experience/training; and the Employer Subsidy is now available at any stage. TOPPlanning Applications : Transportation Aspects Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail what standard requirements exist for the provision of parking facilities when additional shops are planned in an established development. (AQW 2991/00) The Minister for Regional Development (Mr Campbell): The Department of the Environment's Planning Service consults my Department's Roads Service regarding transportation aspects of all planning applications. The requirements for car parking provision for an extension to an existing development or for a change of use within an existing development are generally the same as for a new development. Each application is considered on an individual basis, in conjunction with Planning Service, taking into account;
Repairs to Bridges 60181 and 61369 Mr Derek Hussey asked the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 869/00 and AQW 870/00, to detail when repair work to bridges 60181 and 61369 will commence now that the replacement of the twin bridge culvert on the B72 is complete. (AQW 3147/00) Mr Campbell: My Department’s Roads Service has advised that repair work to Bridges 60181 and 61369 has been delayed because of precautionary measures that were introduced to prevent the spread of Foot and Mouth disease. These measures restricted entry onto agricultural land, which is necessary to carry out the bridge repairs. Following a recent relaxation in these measures, Roads Service hopes, subject to the consent of the landowners concerned, to commence the repair work within the next few weeks. Woodburn Road/Ellis Street : Traffic Management Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 3019/00 and AQW 3020/00, to consider a major reassessment of traffic management on Woodburn Road/Ellis Street in view of the significant number of planning applications on this stretch of road in the last five years. (AQW 3289/00) Mr Campbell: My Department’s Roads Service report that it is satisfied that the current road layout in Woodburn Road and Ellis Street copes adequately with local traffic flows. Consequently, there are no current plans to carry out a major assessment of traffic management in the area. I am informed that the majority of planning applications in the Woodburn Road/Ellis Street area over the last five years have been for changes of use and alterations to existing dwellings. Each application was assessed to evaluate its impact on the surrounding road network and none of the applications necessitated planning conditions requiring applicants to fund any improvements to the road system. Roads Service has, however, recently been consulted about a planning application for 150 houses in the area. The developer has been asked to carry out a Transportation Impact Assessment. This will determine the effect the proposed development will have on the road network and what improvements the developer may be asked to fund. Completion of Roads to Adoption Standards Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister for Regional Development to consider introducing legislation whereby timescales would be set for developers to bring roads up to appropriate standard for adoption by Roads Service. (AQW 3290/00) Mr Campbell: Where completion of roads to adoption standards is not effected by developers within a reasonable period from the date of occupation of houses, the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, as amended, enables my Department’s Roads Service to complete the necessary work at the developers’ expense. Such action is normally only initiated after efforts to persuade the developers to meet their obligations have proved unsuccessful, each case being considered on its merits. It should be recognised, however, that there are many variables that dictate the progress of housing developments and have a direct effect on their completion and, therefore, on the adoption of roads and services. My Department has no plans, currently, to introduce further legislation on this issue. I can assure you, however, that Roads Service is committed to the prompt adoption of all private streets that have been properly provided by developers and will continue to work closely with developers to bring outstanding sites to adoption standards. Vehicle Damage Claims Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the target times for settling public liability claims for vehicle damage caused by poor road surfaces. (AQW 3292/00) Mr Campbell: Not all claims made against the Department are eligible for settlement by way of compensation. The target time to conclude the investigation of a vehicle damage claim and advise a claimant of the outcome of their claim is 6 months from receipt of the claim. The conclusion of a claim may be to reject it, to refer it to another body or to make an offer of compensation. The timescale of 6 months represents an average period. It has been arrived at by taking account of the process involved within the Central Claims Unit and also the investigation process Road Accidents : Hamilton's Corner (A5) Mr Derek Hussey asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of major and minor road traffic accidents at Hamilton's Corner on the A5 between Sion Mills and Strabane in each of the last ten years. (AQW 3356/00) Mr Campbell: The provision of information in relation to road accidents is a matter for the Northern Ireland Office. Public Transport : Carrickfergus to Mallusk Service Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 1194/00, to detail what progress has been achieved regarding the proposed public transport service between Carrickfergus and Mallusk. (AQW 3378/00) Mr Campbell: Translink have advised that a shortage of drivers has delayed the start of the Carrickfergus to Mallusk service. Translink have also advised that currently they have a major driver recruitment programme under way which they hope will resolve this problem. Classification of Roads Mr John Fee asked the Minister for Regional Development to give his Department's definition of (a) A class roads (b) B class roads (c) C class roads (d) unclassified roads and (e) other carriageways. (AQW 3391/00) Mr Campbell: Road classifications in Northern Ireland were established during the time when local councils were responsible for local roads ie prior to the 1973 Local Government reorganisation. At that time, councils received grants for maintenance of roads and they were determined by road classification. Road classification is currently limited to route identification. Any new route outside a motorway would be classified on the basis of the comparable route classification in the area. Regional Transportation Strategy Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister for Regional Development whether the 10 year Regional Transportation Strategy will be ready by Autumn 2001. (AQW 3400/00) Mr Campbell: The Programme for Government includes a target to produce a draft Regional Transportation Strategy by autumn 2001. The Department is still aiming to meet this target. A working conference for key stakeholders will be held at the end of September/beginning of October 2001 and feedback from this event will be used to inform the final draft of the strategy. TOPNIHE : Waiting Lists for Accommodation Mr David Hilditch asked the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 3184/00, to detail, by district council area, the number of people currently waiting for (a) three bedroom ground floor accommodation and (b) two bedroom ground floor accommodation. (AQW 3350/00) The Minister for Social Development (Mr Morrow): The information requested is as follows.
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