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Friday 28 September 2001 Written Answers to Questions Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister Agriculture and Rural Development Enterprise, Trade and Investment Health, Social Services and Public Safety TOPOFFICE OF THE FIRST MINISTER AND DEPUTY FIRST MINISTER Programme for Government Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail the progress made on the implementation of the recommendations made in the Programme for Government. (AQW 13/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: The Executive continues to carefully monitor progress against all the Programme for Government actions. Good progress is being made in each of our priorities set out in the Programme for Government with the great majority of actions on target for completion within the set timescales and slippage reported in just 30 out of the some 250 actions. Victims Groups : Funding Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give details of those victim support groups who received funding in 1998, 1999 and 2000. (AQW 76/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: During the financial year 1998/99 the Community Relations Unit (CRU) within the Department of Finance & Personnel provided funding to the following victims groups: Families Acting against Intimidation and Terror £ 32,556.30 Families Acting for Innocent Relatives (FAIR) £ 2,000.00 Victims And Survivors Trust (VAST) £ 1,771.00 This is the only direct funding provided by CRU during the years mentioned. The Community Relations Council also provided grants to various victims groups from the annual funding provided by DFP and latterly OFMDFM since its inception as follows: 1998/1999 £ 42,795.00 1999/2000 £ 43,280.00 Details of individual groups funded are available in the Annual Report of the Community Relations Council which is available from the Council. In addition, in 1999/2000 the CRC established a Victim Support Grant scheme funded by the Victims Liaison Unit of the NIO with a value of £200,000. Again details of this scheme are produced in the CRC annual report. The Victims Unit has not provided any funding during the years mentioned. Northern Ireland Bureau : Washington Mr Peter Weir asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail how many staff are employed by the Northern Ireland Bureau in Washington, USA. (AQW 88/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: There are five staff in total. That is a Senior Civil Servant and a Grade7 who are supported by one locally employed public relations manager and two secretaries. Victim's Strategy Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to give an assurance that the review and possible changes in the delivery of front line services envisaged in the consultation paper on a victims' strategy will be subject to the provisions of equality legislation. (AQW 101/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: In line with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 any proposed changes to the delivery of services resulting from the victims' strategy will be implemented with due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity and good relations. The consultation paper on a victims' strategy contains an equality impact assessment which aims to identify whether, within each Section 75 category, the policy under consideration creates differential impacts between groups or has the potential to enhance equality of opportunity between groups. In the view of the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister there will be no adverse differential impact and, in addition, the development of a victims' strategy has the potential to enhance equality of opportunity between groups by taking action to redress disadvantage. Draft Programme for Government : Promoting Equality Mr Alex Attwood asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to detail how the revised Programme for Government will reinforce the equality obligations inherent in the Good Friday Agreement. (AQO 155/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: The draft Programme for Government restates the Executive’s commitment to promoting equality of opportunity and that the core principles and values of equality and human rights are fundamental to its work. A key advance in reinforcing the equality obligations inherent in the Belfast Agreement in terms of the draft Programme for Government has been the development of a more comprehensive pre-consultation phase. For example, in June the Executive’s Position Report on the Programme for Government and the Budget was published and circulated widely. In August, in association with the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action, a round table discussion was held involving the stakeholders and officials from this department and Department of Finance and Personnel. These consultations, in conjunction with departmental assessments of the overall equality impact of the various sub-priorities within the draft Programme on the Section 75 categories, has informed an assessment of the equality impacts and that document will form an annex to the draft Programme when it goes out for consultation. Draft Programme for Government : Consultation Ms Carmel Hanna asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to make a statement on planned consultation with relevant Assembly Committees on the revised Programme for Government. (AQO 152/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: We will later this afternoon present the Executive’s draft Programme for Government for the coming year to the Assembly. In the course of the next few weeks, we expect that each Assembly Committee will take the opportunity to look carefully at our plans and priorities as set out in the draft Programme for Government and accompanying Public Service Agreements and will provide us with their views. Following presentation of the draft Programme for Government to the Assembly, we will also be circulating it widely among our social partners in business, trade unions and the voluntary and community sector and will be making it available to other interested individuals and groups. We would like to underline the importance we attach to the process of scrutiny by the Assembly Committees and to the wider consultation. The comments we receive through this process will influence the final document which we will be bringing back to the Assembly for approval towards the end of the year. Commissioner for Children Ms Patricia Lewsley asked the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister to indicate when it is hoped to appoint a Commissioner for Children for Northern Ireland. (AQO 153/01) Sir Reg Empey and Mr Seamus Mallon MP: Consultation on our proposals will continue until 7 November. Following that, we intend to introduce legislation to the Assembly by the end of the year, with a view to appointing the Commissioner by next Spring. TOPAGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT BSE : Regionalisation for Northern Ireland Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to give an update on attempts to achieve regionalisation for Northern Ireland in respect of BSE. (AQW 77/01) The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (Ms Rodgers): I have been keeping the EU political situation in relation to BSE under review to assess when we might take our case to the EU again. We, in keeping with the rest of the EU, are currently engaged in a number of surveys of different categories of cattle to verify the true incidence of the disease in our cattle population. It is likely to be a few months yet before comparative results are available in the rest of the EU and until such time as they are, we are unlikely to be able to persuade the other EU countries of the strength of our case for the relaxation of the beef ban. I remain fully committed to a relaxation of the ban for Northern Ireland and I will raise the case with the EU as soon as conditions are right. Foot-and-Mouth Disease : Decontamination at Ports Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail (a) what mechanism is in place to monitor foot-and-mouth decontamination measures at all air and sea ports and (b) what contingency plans are in place in the event of an outbreak of foot-and-mouth in either Northern Ireland or the Irish Republic. (AQW 102/01) Ms Rodgers: There are extensive controls in place at all entry airports and seaports in Northern Ireland to ensure that Foot and Mouth Disease is not re-introduced from Great Britain. These controls are reviewed regularly in light of the current disease situation. My Department is ready to re-activate the measures we took earlier this year in the event of any recurrence of the disease in either Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland. Agriculture : Restoring Profitability Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail her plans to restore profitability to Northern Ireland agriculture. (AQW 109/01) Ms Rodgers: Profitability in the Northern Ireland agricultural industry is influenced by a huge range of factors, the vast majority of which are beyond my control or the control of any Government. Currency fluctuations and consumer responses to food scares are just two such examples. However, I can assist the industry respond to these challenges and seize any opportunities that are presented. Since becoming Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, I have introduced numerous measures to help the industry in this respect. A prime example is the Rural Development Regulation Plan, with its significantly enhanced provision for LFA support, environmental measures and afforestation of agricultural land. I have also secured funding for environmental and business training, the Farm Waste Management Scheme, the Pig Industry Restructuring Scheme and the Beef Quality Initiative, to name but a few, and have lobbied successfully for the payment of substantial sums of agrimoney compensation. The new Rural Development Programme will be launched very soon, as will various measures under the Programme for Building Sustainable Prosperity. I am also pursuing initiatives such as the case for the relaxation of beef export restrictions to help the industry move forward. You will be aware of the Vision exercise aimed at developing a strategic plan for the development of the agri-food industry over the coming decade. The Vision Group will be delivering its report to me within the next few weeks and this will mark the beginning of a major consultation exercise, involving all stakeholders, on the future of the industry. I hope that this provides a flavour of the broad range of new measures and initiatives that I am pursuing, which are in addition to the many programmes already in place, to help the development of the industry. Number of Farms Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of small, medium and large farms in Northern Ireland in each of the last ten years. (AQW 180/01) Ms Rodgers: The numbers of small, medium and large farms in Northern Ireland between 1991 and 2000 were as follows:
A break in series occurred between 1996 and 1997 when the basis of the June agricultural census, from which these figures are derived, was changed. The measure of farm business size, used in the production of these statistics, is determined by calculating each farm’s total Standard Gross Margin (SGM). The total SGM for each farm is calculated by multiplying its crop areas and livestock numbers by the appropriate SGM coefficients and then summing the result for all enterprises on the farm. The gross margin of an enterprise is its total output less the variable costs, which are directly attributable to it. Standards or norms have been calculated for all major enterprises and these are the bases of the coefficients referred to above. In Northern Ireland agricultural statistics, business size is described in terms of four SGM size bands, determined at EU level. These are: Very small (under €9,600) Small (€9,600 to €48,000) Medium (€48,000 to €120,000) Large ( over €120,000) To show year-to-year changes in business size, the enterprise SGM coefficients are held constant for a number of years. The current series is based on the average prices during the period 1987-89. Because the system of classifying business size was developed for use within the EU statistical network, SGMs are measured in euros. Classification of Farms Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the criteria used by her Department to classify farms into the categories of small, medium and large. (AQW 181/01) Ms Rodgers: The numbers of small, medium and large farms in Northern Ireland between 1991 and 2000 were as follows:
A break in series occurred between 1996 and 1997 when the basis of the June agricultural census, from which these figures are derived, was changed. The measure of farm business size, used in the production of these statistics, is determined by calculating each farm’s total Standard Gross Margin (SGM). The total SGM for each farm is calculated by multiplying its crop areas and livestock numbers by the appropriate SGM coefficients and then summing the result for all enterprises on the farm. The gross margin of an enterprise is its total output less the variable costs, which are directly attributable to it. Standards or norms have been calculated for all major enterprises and these are the bases of the coefficients referred to above. In Northern Ireland agricultural statistics, business size is described in terms of four SGM size bands, determined at EU level. These are: Very small (under €9,600) Small (€9,600 to €48,000) Medium (€48,000 to €120,000) Large ( over €120,000) To show year-to-year changes in business size, the enterprise SGM coefficients are held constant for a number of years. The current series is based on the average prices during the period 1987-89. Because the system of classifying business size was developed for use within the EU statistical network, SGMs are measure Farm Income Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the average income of farms within the categories of small, medium and large in each of the last ten years. (AQW 182/01) Ms Rodgers: The farm income information requested is provided on the attached tables. As there are few farms in Northern Ireland classified as large, and 75% of these are dairy farms, the income information for large farms relates to dairy farms only. Net farm income by size and type of farm 1990/91 - 1999/00
Employment on Farms Mrs Iris Robinson asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of people employed on farms on a full-time and part-time basis in each of the last ten years. (AQW 183/01) Ms Rodgers: The numbers of farmers and other workers employed on a full-time or part-time basis in each of the last ten years were as follows:
These figures are derived from the annual June agricultural census. Those working on a seasonal or casual basis are excluded. Agri-Environment Schemes Mr Seamus Close asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to make a statement on the uptake of Agri-Environment schemes. (AQO 144/01) Ms Rodgers: The three Northern Ireland agri-environment schemes are the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme, the Countryside Management Scheme and the Organic Farming Scheme. All three schemes were re-submitted, with only minor changes, to the EU Commission as part of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Plan. Since the inception of the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme in the early 1990’s, some 4,700 farmers have entered into 10-year ESA management agreements. The Scheme re-opened for new applicants on 10 September 2001, and over 100 applications are currently being processed. The Countryside Management Scheme came into effect on 20 March 2001. Since then 334 applicants have entered into management agreements with the Department. Under the terms of the Scheme, first payments are made following completion of each year’s undertakings. The Organic Farming Scheme came into effect on 1 March 2001. Since then 39 applications have been processed. These are in addition to 24 existing Scheme members. Tie-Up Scheme for Fishing Vessels Mr Kieran McCarthy asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline what discussions she has had with the European Commission regarding a tie-up scheme for fishing vessels. (AQO 146/01) Ms Rodgers: I have not been in contact with the European Commission regarding a tie-up scheme for fishing vessels. It has not been UK policy to provide compensation for reductions in quotas or closures. However, an assessment is being carried out on the impact in Northern Ireland of the cod recovery programmes with a view to informing future discussions with my GB Ministerial colleagues on the question of compensation. Foot-and-Mouth Disease : All-Island Approach Mr John Fee asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline whether co-operation continues between her department and the Department for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development in the Republic of Ireland over foot-and-mouth disease. (AQO 137/01) Ms Rodgers: I have said before that the question of tackling a disease such as Foot and Mouth Disease does require an all-island approach because diseases do not recognise political borders. As such I have been in regular and close contact with Joe Walsh on how to handle the situation and last month, under the aegis of the North/South Ministerial Council, we agreed that sustained co-operation was essential. We have set in train a work programme to develop a strategy for the prevention, containment and eradication of future epizootic disease outbreaks on the island. Vision Group Mr John Dallat asked the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail when she expects the Vision Group to report and the estimated length of the consultation period. (AQO 139/01) Ms Rodgers: I expect to receive the Vision Group’s report on 4 October. I will then begin an appropriate consultation period of at least three months. The consultation period will include a Conference to which all of the major stakeholders will be invited. Once the consultation period ends, I will issue an Action Plan. I expect the contents of the Vision Report to provide the strategic framework for the development of the agri-food industry over the next 5 to 10 years. TOPCULTURE, ARTS AND LEISURE Sport Related Deaths Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the number of sport related deaths over the last five years. (AQW 71/01) The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (Mr McGimpsey): The information you have requested is not readily available. The Sports Council, who have the responsibility for the promotion of sport in the province, have suggested that the only way to ensure an accurate rather than an incomplete, and perhaps anecdotal return of such information, would require them to contact each one of the some 80+ governing bodies of sport individually. This information could only be collated at disproportionate cost. Could I therefore suggest if you have a sport(s) that you are specifically interested in that you contact me again and I will ensure the necessary research is undertaken and the relevant information provided. Motorbike Road Racing : Funding Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the level of funding that has been made available to motorbike road racing in this financial year. (AQW 79/01) Mr McGimpsey: As you will be aware I recently secured £100K as a contribution towards safety works at the province’s road race circuits. This contribution was based on the costings that were provided by the public utilities (British Telecom, Northern Ireland Electricity and Department of Regional Development) and the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (Private Land Owners) to remove/relocate items of roadside ‘furniture’ which constituted a serious risk and which were specifically highlighted in the Road Race Task Force Report. My Department is providing funding (within the £100k limit) for all safety related elements. Work is now underway to action the required improvements. The Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (MCUI), who have been given responsibility for timetabling and prioritising these improvements, have focused action, up to now, on the circuits which held events this year (namely the Mid-Antrim and Dundrod circuits) and the North West 200. The safety improvement programme is now to be "rolled out" across the province to address the safety needs at all other courses. The Sports Council have also provided a financial contribution, through a Sports Lottery Fund grant to the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland, of £23,500 towards safety related equipment - £10,250 towards the purchase of removable protective barriers and £13,250 towards medical equipment. Local Museum and Heritage Review Mr Eddie McGrady asked the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail his assessment of the Local Museums and Heritage Review document; and to make a statement. (AQO 129/01) Mr McGimpsey: You will be aware that the Local Museum and Heritage Review was commissioned by my Department and that of my Ministerial colleague, Sam Foster. The report of the Review steering group was distributed widely at the beginning of July. Officials from both Departments are currently preparing a draft response to the report, and we propose to consult widely on the response when it has been completed. I am very conscious that the response will not be available within the timescale that I originally envisaged. However, the Review raises major strategic issues for the museum and heritage sectors, and it is absolutely vital that we take the time that is needed to ensure that our response best serves Northern Ireland’s needs. Given that the joint response by the two Departments will effectively be an assessment of the Review, I am not in a position to go further at this stage. TOPEDUCATION Disruptive Pupils Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Education to detail his policy on supporting schools in dealing with disruptive pupils. (AQW 107/01) The Minister of Education (Mr McGuinness): The current policy on supporting schools in dealing with disruptive pupils is set out in ‘Promoting and Sustaining Good Behaviour: A Discipline Strategy for Schools’ published in February 1998. This established the framework within which the Education and Library Boards are developing support services to schools and pupils. Implementation is ongoing and services continue to improve and expand as resources permit. The Department issued guidance on ‘Promoting Positive Behaviour’ to all schools in June. Copies of this practical advice are currently being distributed to all teachers and classroom assistants. A copy of the guidance and the Discipline Strategy have been placed in the Assembly Library. TOPEMPLOYMENT AND LEARNING Fee Remission Mr P J Bradley asked the Minister for Employment and Learning if he will make it his policy to waive the tuition fees for people in receipt of Incapacity Benefit who wish to study at colleges of further and higher education. (AQW 73/01) The Minister for Employment and Learning (Dr Farren): In pursuit of my policy to widen access to further and higher education I recently introduced a revised £65 million Student Support package which includes fee remission for over 19s on full-time vocational courses at further education colleges, including those in receipt of Incapacity Benefit. I believe that this package addresses the wide-ranging needs of students in Northern Ireland. TOPENTERPRISE, TRADE AND INVESTMENT Euro Preparations Strategy Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the strategies to assist businesses to adapt to the new trading arrangements created by the introduction of the Euro. (AQW 43/01) The Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (Sir Reg Empey): The Northern Ireland Euro Preparations Forum has been actively implementing a regional euro preparations strategy designed to help local businesses, particularly SMEs, prepare to trade in the euro. The Forum, which is lead by local business representatives, and co-ordinated and financed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, is engaged in the organisation of an intensive series of Northern Ireland wide euro preparation events over the next few months to January 2002 when the new euro notes and coins are introduced. The Forum also provides information on how businesses can prepare for the euro through its website (www.euroforum-ni.org.uk), case studies, fact sheets and regular newsletters. Promoting Tourism Development : Sperrin Area Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail his plans, in conjunction with other Executive Departments, to promote local regeneration strategies based on tourism in the Sperrins area. (AQW 55/01) Sir Reg Empey: Sporrans Tourism Limited is a partnership of tourism interests representing the public, private and voluntary sectors. Funded by NITB, Local Authorities and DARD, it will provide an integrated mechanism for promoting tourism development in the Sperrins area and sourcing support funding under the forthcoming Peace II Programme. Within the Rural Development Programme the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has advised that it will be announcing the Natural Resource Rural Tourism Programme in October. The Programme targets five designated areas within the Province one of which is the Sperrins. Established Partnerships in the designated areas have been invited to submit their applications. The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure has advised that it has established a Cultural Forum comprising senior officials from District Councils, Education and Library Boards, cultural agencies and the department itself. It has provided direct assistance to local authorities, including those in the Sperrins area, in the preparation of cultural strategies in the context of local integrated plans. In preparing these strategies councils have been encouraged to take into account the close linkages between culture and tourism. Job Creation : Funding Mr Danny O'Connor asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the level of funding provided for job creation by district council area in each of the last three years. (AQW 81/01) Sir Reg Empey: Expenditure by IDB and LEDU are detailed in the booklet "DETI AND ITS AGENCIES/NDPBs – A Statistical Synopsis" distributed to all MLAs earlier this year, a copy of which is also available in the Assembly Library. Figures for the year ended 31 March 2001 will be incorporated in the IDB and LEDU Annual Reports for the y/e 31 March 2001 which are due to be published towards the end of October 2001. Expenditure By LEDU/IDB Mr Nigel Dodds asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the level of expenditure of (a) the Local Enterprise Development Unit and (b) the Industrial Development Board by constituency for each year between 1997 and 2001. (AQW 170/01) Sir Reg Empey: Expenditure by IDB and LEDU is detailed in the booklet "DETI AND ITS AGENCIES/NDPBs – A Statistical Synopsis" distributed to all MLAs earlier this year, a copy of which is also available in the Assembly Library. Figures for the year ended 31 March 2001 will be incorporated in the IDB and LEDU Annual Reports for the y/e 31 March 2001 which are due to be published towards the end of October 2001. Home Heating Oil Mr Eddie McGrady asked the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail what steps he will take to ensure that all distributors have access to heating oil in light of the recent atrocity in America. (AQW 194/01) Sir Reg Empey: My Department is in regular contact with the importers/wholesalers of oil products (including home heating oil) in Northern Ireland and there has not to date been any difficulty with supplies into the Province. Despite unusually high levels of demand over the past 10 days importers continued to fulfil normal orders from their major distributors. I am aware of some difficulty being experienced downstream within the supply chain particularly by a small number of local distributors who found it difficult to obtain supplies from major distributors. The market for retail oil is totally free and unregulated, however, I have asked my officials, together with the General Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, to prepare for my consideration a report detailing any apparent failure of the supply/distribution chain which might have resulted in localised shortage of home heating oil. In the meantime, sufficient oil to meet all demands is being received into Northern Ireland storage facilities. TOPENVIRONMENT Erection of Telecommunication Masts Mr Mervyn Carrick asked the Minister of the Environment whether he has any plans to prohibit the erection of telecommunication masts/antenna within a 500 metre radius of schools, hospitals and residences. (AQW 50/01) The Minister of the Environment (Mr Foster): My Department issued a consultation paper on 10 November 2000, seeking views on possible changes to planning legislation for the control of development by licensed telecommunications code system operators, and on the terms of a draft Planning Policy Statement on telecommunications development. Following a decision of the Executive Committee, my Department is currently preparing legislation, which will require full planning permission for all new telecommunications development. All new mast development will then be subject to the full rigour of the planning process. At the same time my Department is revising the draft Planning Policy Statement on telecommunications development taking advice, on health issues, from the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. As part of that revision, my Department is considering the issues raised by the Member. I will, of course, advise the Member of the outcome of that process. Removal of Election Advertisements The Lord Kilclooney asked the Minister of the Environment to detail (a) how long may political posters and displays remain in public areas after polling day (b) what action has he taken to have such displays removed from the Glengormley area; and to make a statement. (AQW 84/01) Mr Foster: Regulation 4(2) Schedule 2 Class F of the Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulation (NI) 1992, requires that an advertisement relating specifically to a pending Parliamentary, European, Northern Ireland Assembly or district council election is removed within 14 days after the close of the poll in the election to which it relates. My Department wrote to all political parties on 5 June, 22 June and 2 July 2001 advising of the statutory regulations for the display of election posters, including the requirement that they must be removed within 14 days of the close of the relevant poll. While the vast majority of posters in relation to the Parliamentary Elections have been removed, my Department continues to monitor the situation and on receipt of specific complaints has written to the individual parties concerned. I have asked my Department to contact you to seek more details about your complaint, and to take any action necessary to ensure the removal of the posters. Retail Development College Street, Armagh The Lord Kilclooney asked the Minister of the Environment, in respect of planning application 0/2000/0779 for commercial retail development at College Street, Armagh, to detail (a) on what date was the planning application submitted (b) why the planning decision has not been issued (c) whether Armagh City Council supported this application and (d) whether there is any detrimental effect to inward investment as a result of the delay; and to make a statement. (AQW 85/01) Mr Foster: (a) The planning application was submitted to my Department on 15 August 2000. However, amended plans, and a supporting statement to enable my officials to continue processing the application were not submitted by the applicant until October 2000. A separate application for consent to demolish buildings within a Conservation Area was also submitted in October 2000. (b) After careful consideration of the proposed development, my Department wrote to the planning consultants on 30 November 2000 raising concerns about the design and massing of the Lonsdale Road frontage and the College Street frontage, and the proposed demolition of a building on the College Street frontage, which was constructed in 1997 as part of the Lonsdale Road Comprehensive Development Scheme. My officials suggested a meeting to discuss these concerns. The consultants did not make themselves available for this meeting until May 2001. My officials requested revised design plans for the scheme during this meeting, which were not received until 26 July 2001. However, these revisions still fall short of what is expected for such a prominent corner site, situated partly within the Armagh Conservation Area and adjacent to the Mall and Courthouse. My Department informed the consultants of this by letter dated 13 September 2001. The current position is that my officials are awaiting a response to this correspondence. I am advised that the demolition of a building is no longer an issue if an alternative replacement building of an acceptable design is agreed. The Divisional Planning Manager attended an Executive Committee meeting of Armagh City & District Council on 28 August 2001 to discuss the scheme. The Committee supported the Planning Service’s position on the proposal, especially in relation to design requirements. Planning Service has no objection, in principle, to the proposed retail use for the site, and there are no outstanding roads/car-parking related issues. (c) My Department is mindful of the need to attract investment to the City and especially its commercial centre, but it also has a responsibility to ensure that new developments enhance its unique architectural and historic character. This is the balance my Department has sought to achieve in this case. If an acceptable revised design is submitted, my Department will seek to progress the proposal and present an opinion to the Council as quickly as possible. Planning Service : Enforcement Notices Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of the Environment how many enforcement notices have been issued by the Planning Service in each of the last three years. (AQW 90/01) Mr Foster: This information is set out below: 1999 – 83 2000 – 51 2001 - 49 (to date) Planning Service : Stop Notices Mr Peter Weir asked the Minister of the Environment how many stop notices have been issued by the Planning Service in each of the last three years. (AQW 91/01) Mr Foster: This information is set out below: 1999 – 2 2000 – 2 2001 - 5 (to date) Fish Kills Mr Jim Wilson asked the Minister of the Environment to detail (a) the number of pollution incidents leading to fish kills (b) the estimated number of fish killed and (c) the nature of the pollutant attributed to fish kills over the past twelve months. (AQW 112/01) Mr Foster: (a) During the period 1 September 2000 to 17 September 2001, 48 pollution incidents resulting in fish kills were investigated by Environment and Heritage Service. (b) An estimated total of 22,982 fish have been killed in these incidents. The lowest recorded kill involved 10 fish, whilst the highest estimated number of individuals in one fish kill was 5,679. (c) During this period, agriculture was identified as the cause of 15 fish kills, sewage (including illegal discharges to sewage treatment works) as the cause of 7. Industry was found to be the cause of 8 of the fish kills and natural causes (including disease and stress associated with the spawning process) have been implicated in 8 cases. There were 10 cases where the source of the fish kill incident was unidentified. Out Of Town Shopping Centre Development Mr Derek Hussey asked the Minister of the Environment to detail his current policy in regard to out of town shopping centre development. (AQW 116/01) Mr Foster: My Department’s policy on out of town shopping centre development is contained in paragraph 36 of its Planning Policy Statement 5 (PPS5) entitled "Retailing and Town Centres", which states that proposals for major retail development in the countryside, outside the development limits of settlements, will not be acceptable. I enclose a copy of PPS 5 for your information. The Department for Regional Development is set to review PPS 5 in the near future. As part of that process, views and comments will be invited and welcomed. The matter will also be the subject of discussion with the Assembly Committees (Environment and Regional Development) to ensure that all relevant aspects of retailing are fully considered. In the meantime Planning Service must work in the policy context provided by PPS 5 and where appropriate statutory development plans. Planning Regulations : Display of Election Posters Mr Derek Hussey asked the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQW 3559/00, to detail (a) the results of monitoring by his officials in relation to a breach of regulation 4 (2) and schedule 2 class F of the Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations (NI) 1992 and (b) what action has been taken against those still in breach of these regulations. (AQW 117/01) Mr Foster: Monitoring by my officials of the situation regarding any breaches of the regulations in relation to the display of election posters, following the elections held on 7 June 2001, has resulted in the removal of the vast majority of posters. I am aware that a small number of posters remain on display and my Department continues to monitor the situation. On receipt of specific complaints, my Department has written to the individual parties concerned requesting the removal of these posters. TOPFINANCE AND PERSONNEL EU Structural Funds Programmes Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail what action he has taken to improve the quality of EU Development Programmes. (AQW 52/01) The Minister of Finance and Personnel (Mr Durkan): In order to improve the quality of the 2000-2006 round of EU Structural Funds Programmes compared with previous rounds, a number of changes have been made in their development and management. Extensive consultation took place involving a wide range of regional interests which informed the decisions taken by the Executive as to the focus and context of the Programmes. These were then refined and confirmed during our negotiations with the European Commission on the content of the Programmes. The structure and composition of the Monitoring Committees which supervise the progress of implementation of the Programmes has been changed to improve its representation and function. New Monitoring Committees structures have both a greater focus on the involvement of social partners and a more carefully balanced membership to give a broader, more local representation. These changes reflect the requirements of the new Structural Funds Regulation which places a greater emphasis on the involvement of broad partnerships in the development and monitoring of the new Structural Funds Programmes. I chair the Community Support Framework Monitoring Committee with the two Junior Ministers in OFM/DFM sitting as Deputy Chairs. The Committees will have the support of a range of working groups which can call on specialist expertise from outside their membership. The Programme Complements of the EU European Structural Funds have also been the subject of a rigorous review by their Monitoring Committees especially the mechanism for selection of projects and the development of indicators to monitor performance. The Monitoring Committee agreed the Programme Complement at the end of June 2001. Land Registers of Northern Ireland Mr James Leslie asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel, in relation to the Land Registers of Northern Ireland to detail (a) the number of entries to the Land Register which are currently outstanding (b) the number of such entries which have been outstanding for more than one year (c) the number of entries processed in each of the last three years for which figures are available; and (d) the number of items received for registration in the most recent year for which figures are available. (AQW 86/01) Mr Durkan: (a) The Registry has approximately 23,745 applications for registration awaiting processing. Approximately 15602 of these applications are overdue in terms of internal target times, which the Registry uses to monitor the progress of work (See Note 1 below). (b) Some 5457 applications are one year old. There are 1684 applications which have exceeded target times by one year. (c) No. Of entries processed; 1998 – 1999 37534 1999 – 2000 40960 2000 – 2001 40252
(d) Year 2000 – 2001 50,027 - received for registration 2,707 - rejected at reception (See Note 2 below) 47,320 – accepted for registration Note 1 The reference to entries has been assumed to relate to applications for registration. Note 2 An application may be rejected because, for example, the fees are incorrect, cheques are not lodged or signed, and/or there is incorrect documentation lodged. Aggregates Tax Mr Danny Kennedy asked the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail (a) what representations have been made, on behalf of the Executive, to HM Treasury in respect of the introduction of the Aggregates Tax to Northern Ireland, and (b) the impact the tax would have on the quarry industry and local economy. (AQW 179/01) Mr Durkan: (a) Earlier this year the First Minister and Deputy First Minister met the Chancellor of the Exchequer to press the case for a derogation of the Aggregates Tax. I met with representatives of the Quarry Products Association in August to discuss their concerns and a meeting with the Financial Secretary to the Treasury is being arranged. Discussions between HM Treasury and NI continue at an official level. (b) Aggregates currently produced in Northern Ireland have an average price of around £2.60 per tonne. The £1.60 per tonne tax will increase costs by around 60% and thus reduce the competitiveness of the Northern Ireland aggregates market. Greater traffic from Southern processors penetrating the Northern Ireland aggregates market and the potential of unprocessed material being extracted in Northern Ireland, exported South and re-imported as processed materials without attracting the tax will all combine to produce harmful environmental consequences. The tax also has the adverse potential of threatening the employment levels in the quarrying and related industries. It is estimated that several thousand jobs are at risk and the losses will occur in areas where they will not easily be replaced. TOPHealth, Social Services and Public Safety Bowen's Close, Banbridge Road, Lurgan Mr Seamus Close asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 3225/00, to detail the order dates for curtains, soft furnishings and other household necessities included in the expenditure of £8000 per house for Nos. 2 and 3, Bowen's Close, Banbridge Road, Lurgan. (AQW 38/01) The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Ms de Brún): Craigavon and Banbridge Community Health and Social Services Trust ordered the required household items on 26 February 2001. D’ordaigh Iontaobhas Sláinte agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta Phobal Chreag na hAbhann agus Dhroichead na Banna na hábhair tí a bhí de dhíth ar 26 Feabhra 2001. Bowen's Close, Banbridge Road, Lurgan Mr Seamus Close asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the legal expenses incurred to date and the projected legal expenses in relation to the ongoing litigation in respect of Nos. 1, 2 and 3 Bowen's Close, Banbridge Road, Lurgan. (AQW 39/01) Ms de Brún: There have been no legal expenses incurred to date by Craigavon and Banbridge Community Health and Social Services Trust in respect of numbers 2 and 3 Bowen’s Close. There are currently no known projected legal expenses. Níor tharraing Iontaobhas Sláinte agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta Phobal Chreag na hAbhann agus Dhroichead na Banna costas dleathach ar bith air féin go dtí seo maidir le huimhreacha 2 agus 3 Clós Bowen. Faoi láthair, níl costais dhleathacha réamh-mheasta ar an eolas. National Institute of Clinical Excellence : Multiple Sclerosis Medicines Mr Ken Robinson asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what policy she will pursue in relation to the recent guidance produced by National Institute of Clinical Excellence regarding the use of Beta-Interferon; and to make a statement. (AQW 42/01) Ms de Brún: The document that has recently been issued by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) represents a provisional appraisal of four medicines used in the management of Multiple Sclerosis. It is a consultation document only, and does not at this stage constitute fresh guidance on the use of beta interferon. I am aware that the draft recommendations have given rise to considerable concern about the future availability of beta interferon. I have already met with the Multiple Sclerosis Society to listen to their views and more recently, I have met with health professionals who are actively involved in the management of MS. As you may be aware, NICE guidance applies only in England and Wales, but I may wish to consider the local implications of the guidance when it is formally published later this year. In the meantime, patients with MS here will continue to receive drugs such as beta-interferon for as long as their consultant neurologist, having discussed the risks and benefits of treatment with the patient, considers that they are likely to benefit from the treatment, having taken account of the evidence of effectiveness, Departmental guidance and the guidelines of the Association of Neurologists. Is measúnacht shealadach de cheithre chógas úsáidte i láimhseáil Ilscléaróise í an cháipéis seo a d’eisigh an Institiúid Náisiúnta um Fheabhas Chliniciúil (INFC) ar na mallaibh. Níl ann ach cáipéis chomhairleach agus ag an am seo, ní thugann sí treoir úr ar bith ar úsáid beta interferon. Tá sé ar eolas agam gur thionscain na dréachtmholtaí eisithe ar na mallaibh ag an Institiúid Náisiúnta um Fheabhas Chliniciúil (INFC) an bhuairt mhór faoi infhaighteacht beta interferon sa todhchaí. Bhuail mé leis an Chumann Ilscléaróise cheana féin le héisteacht lena gcuid tuairimí agus níba dhéanaí, bhuail mé le gairmithe sláinte atá rannpháirteach go gníomhach i láimhseáil IS. De réir mar is eol duit, baineann treoir an INFC le Sasana agus leis an Bhreatain Bheag amháin, ach is féidir gur mian leat machnamh a dhéanamh ar impleachtaí áitiúla na treorach nuair a fhoilseofar go foirmiúil níos moille i mbliana í. Idir an dá linn, gheobhaidh othair anseo le IS drugaí ar nós beta interferon go fóill a fhad is a shíleann a néareolaí comhairleach, i ndiaidh dó/di baoil agus tairbhí na cóireála a phlé leis an othar, gur dócha go mbainfidh siad tairbhe as an chóireáil, i ndiaidh dó/di cruthú a héifeachtachta, treoir na Roinne agus treoirlínte Chumann na Néareolaithe a chur san áireamh. Specialist Nursing Provision : Southern Board Area Mr Paul Berry asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline what plans are in place to provide a full time specialist nurse in the Southern Board Area for patients suffering from epilepsy. (AQW 66/01) Ms de Brún: I am advised that the Southern Health and Social Services Board has no plans to provide a full time specialist nurse in the Southern Board area for patients suffering from epilepsy. The Board has, however, recently provided funding to allow patients suffering from epilepsy and other neurological conditions to attend a specialist nurse-led review clinic at Craigavon Area Hospital. This clinic runs alongside the consultant neurology clinic and has the specific aim of reducing waiting times for new patients who attend the consultant clinic. In addition, the Board has also funded paediatric epilepsy nurse input into two outpatient clinics in Armagh Community Hospital and Craigavon Area Hospital. Cuirtear in iúl dom nach bhfuil sé ar intinn ag Bord Sláinte agus Seirbhísí Sóisialta an Deiscirt sainaltra lánaimseartha a fhostú i gceantar Bhord an Deiscirt d’othair a fhulaingíonn ó thitimeas. Chuir an Bord maoiniú ar fáil ar na mallaibh áfach chun ligean d’othair ag fulaingt ó thitimeas agus ó riochtaí néareolaíochta freastal ar chlinic athbhreithnithe, a bhfuil sainaltraí i gceannas air, in Otharlann Ceantair Chreag na hAbhann. Feidhmíonn an clinic seo in éineacht leis an sainchlinic néareolaíochta agus is í a aidhm fhollasach amannna feithimh d’othair nua a fhreastalaíonn ar an sainchlinic a laghdú. Ina theannta sin, mhaoinigh an Bord ionchur altraí ar thitimeas phéidiatraiceach i ndá chlinic éisothair in Otharlann Pobail Ard Mhacha agus in Otharlann Ceantair Chreag na hAbhann. Accident and Emergency Waiting Times Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail Accident and Emergency waiting times at acute hospitals for 1998, 1999 and 2000; and to make a statement. (AQW 74/01) Ms de Brún: This information is not collected centrally. Ní bhailítear an t-eolas seo go lárnach. Occupational Therapists : East Antrim Area Mr Danny O'Connor asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what action is being taken to increase the number of occupational therapists in the East Antrim area. (AQW 82/01) Ms de Brún: I have identified £0.5m to enable Health and Social Services Boards and Trusts to increase the number of occupational therapists by at least 20 by March 2002. Homefirst Community Trust’s share of the target is 3 therapists, of whom 2 will be deployed in the Larne and Carrickfergus areas. Recruitment is underway. Fuair mé £0.5m chun cur ar chumas Bhoird agus Iontaobhais Shláinte agus Sheirbhísí Sóisialta líon na dteiripithe saothair a mhéadú faoi 20 ar a laghad faoi 20 Márta 2002. Is é 3 teiripí, 2 díobh a bheidh ag obair i Latharna agus i gCarraig Fheargais, sciar Iontaobhas Phobal Homefirst den sprioc é. Tá earcaíocht ar siúl cheana féin. Occupational Therapy Waiting List Mr Danny O'Connor asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 322/99, to detail the action being taken to target patients who are waiting 15 months or more on the waiting list for occupational therapy in the East Antrim area. (AQW 83/01) Ms de Brún: Occupational therapy waiting list figures for Homefirst Community Trust show a reduction of 6 % between December 2000 and June 2001. This reduction is partly due to the implementation, in March 2001, of the recommendations of the joint Housing Executive/Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety review of the Housing Adaptation Service. Deployment of the 2 additional therapists referred to in response to AQW 82/2001 should make a significant impact in reducing waiting lists. Léiríonn figiúirí na liostaí feithimh le haghaidh teiripe saothaoir d’Iontaobhas Phobal Homefirst laghdú 6% idir Nollaig 2000 agus Meitheamh 2001. Tá an laghdú seo de bharr chur i bhfeidhm moltaí Chomhathbhreithniú an Fheidhmeannais Tithíochta/na Roinne Sláinte, Seirbhísí Sóisialta agus Sábháilteachta Poiblí ar an tSeirbhís Oiriúnú Tithíochta i Márta 2001 go pointe áirithe. Ba chóir d’fhostú 2 teiripí breise saothair a ndéantar tagairt dóibh i bhfreagra ar AQW 82/2001 tionchar mór a bheith aige ar laghdú i liostaí feithimh. Cardiac Surgery Waiting List Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail her plans to reduce the waiting list for cardiac surgery and to state whether she achieved her targets in the last financial year. (AQW 99/01) Ms de Brún: In September last year I commissioned a review of cardiac surgery. The review report has now been finalised and it is my intention to issue the report for public consultation in the near future. The Report sets out a range of recommendations aimed at reducing the waiting list and waiting times for surgery. Immediate action to improve recruitment and retention of staff, particularly nursing staff in cardiac surgery is a priority if waiting times are to be reduced. I have allocated additional funding for supernumerary nursing posts in cardiac intensive care to support the existing staff and allow additional nurses to receive the specialised training. This will help increase bed capacity and facilitate and increase in the number of operations possible. The four Health and Social Services Boards have been purchasing cardiac surgery at units elsewhere for some patients who are able and willing to travel. This practice will need to continue until the number of procedures conducted at the Royal increases. No target was set for the reduction of cardiac surgery waiting lists for the last financial year. I have set a target for the current financial year of reducing by 50% the number of people waiting more than 12 months for cardiac surgery and the elimination of such long waits by March 2003. By the end of the first quarter of the current financial year the number waiting more than 12 months for cardiac surgery had reduced by 9.5%. Choimisiúnaigh mé athbhreithniú ar mháinliacht chairdiach i mí Mheán Fómhair na bliana anuraidh. Tá bailchríoch ar an tuairisc anois, agus tá sé ar intinn agam an tuairisc a eisiúint le haghaidh comhairliúcháin phoiblí ar ball. Leagann an tuairisc réimse moltaí amach atá ag iarraidh an liosta feithimh agus amanna feithimh do mháinliacht a laghdú. Caithfidh gníomh a dhéanamh láithreach le hearcú agus coinneáil foirne a fheabhsú, go háirithe foirne altranais i máinliacht chairdiach má tá amanna feithimh le laghdú. Dháil mé maoiniú breise le haghaidh post altranais breise i ndianchúram cairdiach le tacú leis an fhoireann atá ann faoi láthair agus le ligean d’altraí breise an tsainoiliúint a fháil. Cuideoidh sé seo an líon leapacha a mhéadú agus líon na n-obráidí is féidir a dhéanamh a éascú agus a mhéadú. Bhí na ceithre bhord sláinte agus seirbhísí sóisialta ag ceannach máinliacht chairdeach in ionaid eile do roinnt othar atá ábalta agus toilteanach taisteal. Ní mór an cleachtadh seo a leanstan ar aghaidh go dtiocfaidh méadú ar líon na ngnáthamh máinliachta a dhéantar san Otharlann Ríoga. Níor leagadh sprioc amach do laghdú na liostaí feithimh do mháinliacht chairdiach don bhliain airgeadais seo caite. Leag mé sprioc amach don bhliain airgeadais seo go laghdófaí líon na ndaoine atá ag fanacht le máinliacht chairdiach le níos mó ná 12 mí faoi 50% agus go gcuirfí deireadh lena leithéid seo d’fheitheamh fada faoi Mhárta 2003. Faoi dheireadh na chéad ráithe den bhliain reatha airgeadais, tháinig laghdú 9.5% ar líon na ndaoine a bhí ag fanacht le máinliacht chairdiach le níos mó ná 12 mí. Drugs Strategy Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail her plans to combat the growing drug problem. (AQW 104/01) Ms de Brún: As well as the Drugs strategy, which was launched in 1999, a Strategy for Reducing Alcohol Related Harm was launched here in September 2000. In April 2001, a paper entitled ‘Model for the Joint Implementation of the Drug and Alcohol Strategies’ was presented to the Ministerial Group on Drugs for consideration. The Ministerial Group approved the model, and on 17th May it received endorsement from the Executive. The structures include all key interests including local communities and will allow for a concerted approach.
The joint implementation of both strategies is now underway. The new model includes the formation of six working groups to cover the following areas: Treatment, Education & Prevention, Communities, Information & Research, Social Legislation and Criminal Justice. The first meetings of the Working Groups are planned for November 2001. The six Working Groups will create Action Plans based on the key output areas detailed in the Joint Implementation Model. These key outputs are based on the targets contained in the Drug and Alcohol Strategies. Additional resources have been allocated to each of the four Drug Co-ordination Teams to employ an extra worker to help with the increasing workload. Recently £6.23m has been transferred to the Executive for allocation through the Drug and Alcohol Implementation Steering Group. Discussions are underway to determine how these resources can be deployed most effectively. Chomh maith le Straitéis Drugaí, a lainseáladh i 1999, lainseáladh An Straitéis Chun An Dochar A Bhaineann Le hAlcól A Laghdú anseo i Meán Fómhair 2000. Cuireadhpáipéar dár teideal ‘Eiseamláir do Chomhchur i bhFeidhm Straitéisí Drugaí agus Alcóil’ i láthair an Grúpa Aireachta ar Dhrugaí le haghaidh machnamh air. Cheadaigh an Grúpa Aireachta an eiseamláir, agus ar 17 Bealtaine fuair sé formhuiniú ón Fheidhmeannas. Sna struchtúir seo beidh gach eochairspéis, pobail áitiúla san áireamh, rud a cheadóidh cur chuige dian. Tá comhchur i bhfeidhm den dá straitéis faoi lánseol anois. San áireamh san eiseamláir beidh bunú sé ghrúpa oibre leis na hábhair seo a chlúdach: Cóireáil, Oideachas & Cosc, Pobail, Eolas & Taighde, Reachtaíocht Shóisialta agus Dlí Coiriúil. Táthar ag súil leis na chéad chruinnithe de na Grúpaí Oibre a reáchtáil i Mí na Samhna 2001. Cruthóidh na sé Ghrúpa Oibre Pleananna Gnímh bunaithe ar na hachair eochair-aschuir atá breactha síos san Eiseamláir Chomhchur i bhFeidhm. Tá na hachair eochair-aschuir bunaithe ar na spriocanna sna Straitéisí Drugaí agus Alcóil. Dáileadh acmhainní breise ar gach ceann de na ceithre Fhoireann Comhordaithe Drúgaí chun oibrithe breise a fhostú le cuidiú leis an ualach oibre atá ag dul i méid. Aistríodh £6.23m ar na mallaibh chuig an Fheidhmeannas le dáileadh tríd an Ghrúpa Stiúrtha ar Chur i bhFeidhm na Straitéisí Drugaí agus Alcóil. Tá díospóireachtaí faoi lánseol le haimsiú cad é an dóigh is éifeachtaí leis na hacmhainní seo a úsáid. Cardiac Surgery Procedures Ms Monica McWilliams asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail her plans to support staff in the cardiac surgical unit at the Royal Hospitals Trust to achieve the target of 1,100 cardiac surgical operations each year. (AQW 110/01) Ms de Brún: In September last year I commissioned a review of cardiac surgery to assess the level of need for these services in light of developments in interventional cardiology, emerging clinical practices and changing incidence of heart disease. The report has now been finalised and it is my intention to issue it for public consultation in the near future. The Report contains a range of recommendations aimed at increasing the number of cardiac surgery procedures performed while simultaneously maintaining or enhancing the quality of the service. Immediate action to improve recruitment and retention of staff, particularly nursing staff in cardiac surgery is a priority if we are to increase the number of procedures performed. I have allocated additional funding for supernumerary nursing posts in cardiac intensive care to support the existing staff and allow additional nurses to receive the specialised training. This will help increase bed capacity and facilitate an increase in the number of operations possible. Choimisiúnaigh mé athbhreithniú ar mháinliacht chairdiach i mí Mheán Fómhair na bliana anuraidh le leibhéal an riachtanais leis na seirbhísí seo a mheas mar gheall ar na forbairtí i gcairdeolaíocht idirghabhálach, ar chleachtais chliniciúla atá ag teacht chun cinn agus ar athrú i dtarlú galair chroí. Tá bailchríoch ar an tuairisc anois agus tá sé ar intinn agam an tuairisc a eisiúint le haghaidh comhairliúcháin phoiblí ar ball. Leagann an tuairisc amach réimse moltaí atá ag iarraidh líon na ngnáthamh máinliachta cairdí a dhéantar a mhéadú agus ag an am chéanna cáilíocht na seirbhíse a choinneáil agus a fheabhsú. Caithfidh gníomh a dhéanamh láithreach le hearcú agus coinneáil foirne a fheabhsú, go háirithe foirne altranais i máinliacht chairdiach, má táimid líon na ngnáthamh máinliachta a dhéantar a mhéadú. Dháil mé maoiniú breise le haghaidh post altranais breise i ndianchúram cairdiach le tacú leis an fhoireann atá ann faoi láthair agus le ligean d’altraí breise an tsainoiliúint a fháil. Cuideoidh sé seo an líon leapacha a mhéadú agus líon na n-obráidí is féidir a dhéanamh a éascú agus a mhéadú. Royal Hospitals Trust : Cardiac Operations Ms Monica McWilliams asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to make it her policy to require the Royal Hospitals Trust to publish monthly statistics in relation to the number of cardiac operations performed in that hospital. (AQW 111/01) Ms de Brún: I can appreciate the basis of this proposal and I will address it as part of my wider response to the Cardiac Surgery Review report, on which I will be consulting shortly. Tig liom bunús an mholta seo a thuiscint agus rachaidh mé i gceann air mar chuid de m’fhreagairt níos fairsinge ar Thuairisc an Athbhreithnithe ar Mháinliacht Chairdiach, ar a mbeidh mé ag dul i gcomhairle ar ball. Reducing Alcohol Related Harm Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail those measures she is taking to combat alcoholism among young people. (AQW 113/01) Ms de Brún: Last autumn, I launched the Executive’s Strategy for Reducing Alcohol Related Harm. This commits us to three broad objectives: firstly, to encourage a sensible approach to drinking; secondly, to promote effective treatment services; and thirdly, to protect individuals and communities from the damage that alcohol misuse can cause. In April 2001, a paper entitled ‘Model for the Joint Implementation of the Drug and Alcohol Strategies’ was presented to the Ministerial Group on Drugs for consideration. The Ministerial Group approved the model, and on 17th May it received endorsement from the Executive. The structures include all key interests including local communities and will allow for a concerted approach. The joint implementation of both strategies is now underway and the new model includes the formation of six working groups to cover the following areas: Treatment, Education & Prevention, Communities, Information & Research, Social Legislation and Criminal Justice. The six Working Groups will create Action Plans based on the key output areas detailed in the Joint Implementation Model. These key outputs are based on the targets contained in the Drug and Alcohol Strategies. Under the Alcohol Strategy, work will be taken forward to develop a health promotion and education programme targeted at children and young people, as well as providing training for teachers, other educators and youth workers. As one element in implementing the Alcohol Strategy, we will be reviewing the adequacy of the current controls on underage purchasing. Where they are clearly inadequate, we will work with the relevant parties to strengthen them. Lainseáil mé an Fómhar seo caite an Straitéis Chun An Dochar A Bhaineann le hAlcól A Laghdú de chuid an Fheidhmeannais. Geallann seo dúinn do thrí chuspóir: sa chéad áit, cur chuige siosmadach a spreagadh i dtaobh ólacháin, sa dara háit, seirbhísí éifeachtacha coireála a chur chun cinn; agus sa tríú háit daoine aonair agus pobail a chosaint ar an damáiste is féidir a bheith ann mar gheall ar mhí-úsáid alcóil. In Aibreán 2001 cuireadh páipéar dar teideal ‘Eiseamláir do Chomhchur i bhFeidhm na Straitéisí Drugaí agus Alcóil’ os comhair an Ghrúpa Aireachta ar Dhrúgaí chun machnamh a dhéanamh air. Cheadaigh an Grúpa Aireachta an eiseamláir, agus ar 17 Bealtaine fuair sé formhuiniú ón Fheidhmeannas. Sna struchtúir beidh eochairspéiseanna agus pobail áitiúla san áireamh a cheadóidh cur chuige dian. Tá comhchur i bhfeidhm den dá straitéis faoi lánseol agus san áireamh san eiseamláir beidh bunú sé ghrúpa oibre leis na hachair seo a chlúdach: Coireáil, Oideachas & Cosc, Pobail, Eolas & Taighde, Reachtaíocht Shóisialta agus Dlí Coiriúil. Cruthóidh na sé Ghrúpa Oibre Pleananna Gníomhachta bunaithe ar na achair eochair-aschuir atá breactha síos in Eiseamláir Chomhchur i bhFeidhm. Tá na hachair eochair-aschur bunaithe ar na spriocanna sna Straitéisí Drúgaí agus Alcóil. De réir na Straitéise Alcóil, tabharfar an obair le clár cur chun cinn sláinte agus oideachais dírithe ar pháistí agus ógánaigh a fhorbairt, chomh maith le oiliúnit a sholáthar do mhúinteoirí, oidí eile agus oibrithe óganaigh. Mar ghné amháin le Straitéis Alcóil a chur i bhfeidhm déanfaimid athbhreithniú ar leorgacht na rialaithe láithreacha ar cheannach ólachán faoin aois dhleathach. Mura leor iad ar bhealach suntasach, oibreoimid leis na páirtithe bainteacha chun iad a neartú. Multiple Sclerosis : Drug Treatment Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail whether the new drugs for Multiple Sclerosis, Beta Interferon and Copaxone, are available within any of the health boards. (AQW 120/01) Ms de Brún: Beta Interferon and Copaxone are currently available within the four Health and Social Services Boards here for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis. Patients here with Multiple Sclerosis currently receive Beta Interferon and Copaxone if their consultant neurologist, having discussed the risks and benefits of treatment with the patient, considers that they are likely to benefit from the treatment, having taken account of the evidence on effectiveness, Departmental guidance and the guidelines of the Association of Neurologists. Tá Beta Interferon agus Copaxone ar fáil faoi láthair laistigh de na ceithre Bhord Sláinte, Seirbhísí Sóisialta agus Sábháilteachta Poiblí anseo chun Ilscléaróis a chóireáil. Faigheann othair anseo le hIlscléaróis Beta Interferon agus Copaxone i láthair na huaire má mheasann a néareolaí comhairleach, i ndiaidh dó/di baoil agus tairbhí na cóireála a phlé leis an othar, gur dócha go mbainfidh an t-othar tairbhe as an chóireáil, i ndiaidh dó/di cruthú a héifeachta, treoir na Roinne agus treoirlínte Chumann na Néareolaithe a chur san áireamh. Multiple Sclerosis : Drug Treatment Mr Jim Shannon asked the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the criteria for the distribution of the new Multiple Sclerosis drugs, Beta Interferon and Copaxone, within the local health trusts. (AQW 121/01) Ms de Brún: I refer the Member to the answer given to AQW 120/2001. Luaim don Bhall an freagra a thug mé ar AQW 120/2001. TOPSewage Treatment Works : Portaferry Mr Kieran McCarthy asked the Minister for Regional Development if he will ensure that the Water Service will provide a new sewerage treatment works in Portaferry on a site away from residential properties. (AQW 40/01) The Minister for Regional Development (Mr Campbell): A new Wastewater Treatment Works will have to be provided for Portaferry by 31 December 2005 in order to meet the requirements of the Urban Waste Water Treatment Regulations (NI) 1995. Water Service is currently in the process of selecting a site for the proposed Works, using its normal site selection criteria. Water Service is aware from public meetings and correspondence, of the strength of local feeling about the two sites recommended by the Environmental Analysis and the apparent preference by many residents for the site known as Site 2, which is adjacent to the Walter’s Rocks. No final decision has been taken regarding the siting of the proposed works, and indeed none can be taken until all the required studies have been completed. The studies will include detailed environmental impact assessments of the two recommended sites and Site 2, which will closely examine environmental issues, including those influenced by distance from existing properties. Ultimately, it will be for Planning Service to decide whether to grant planning approval for the chosen site, and the planning process will provide a further opportunity for individuals and other interested parties to comment on the proposal. However, irrespective of which site is eventually chosen, the scheme will be designed sensitively and will incorporate measures aimed at mitigating any adverse impact on the environment Significant public consultation on the siting of the Works has already taken place and I understand that Water Service has arranged to make a presentation to the Ards Borough Council External Affairs and Planning Committee on Tuesday 9 October 2001. I can assure you that the views and concerns of the public and their representatives will be taken into account along with all the other relevant factors in the final decision on the siting of the Works. Control of Dwellings in the Countryside Mr Ian Paisley Jnr asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail when he intends to bring forward a policy statement on dwellings in the countryside; and to make a statement. (AQW 41/01) Mr Campbell: I recognise the difficulties currently being experienced in rural areas and acknowledge fully the importance of countryside issues. Those issues have been highlighted in the Rural White Paper in Great Britain, the work of the Rural Task Force in the UK and the recently published Rural Development Programme Strategy 2001-2006 of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. As far as the policy in relation to the control of dwellings in the countryside is concerned that is a matter for the Minister for the Environment. My role, and that of the Department for Regional Development, is, in the context of the Regional Development Strategy, to provide regional planning guidance for the countryside. Following the Assembly's agreement of the Regional Development Strategy my Department, in consultation with DOE, DARD and other Departments will commence work on preparing regional planning guidance on matters affecting the countryside. That guidance will include the issue of dwellings in the countryside. Finally, it is important to note that the preparation of this guidance constitutes a significant body of work and will involve a wide and detailed consultation with all the major stakeholders. Given the likely extent and scope of this work I anticipate that it will be completed by September 2003. Road Infrastructure : West Tyrone Mr Oliver Gibson asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail his plans to improve the road infrastructure of West Tyrone. (AQW 54/01) Mr Campbell: My Department’s Roads Service plans to undertake a number of major and minor road schemes to improve the road infrastructure in West Tyrone. The major road schemes are the construction of bypasses of Newtownstewart and Strabane (Stage 2) and a throughpass of Omagh (Stage 3). Work on the former scheme (estimated cost £8M) commenced in August 2001 and is expected to take approximately 18 months to complete. Subject to the successful completion of the necessary statutory procedures and the availability of funds, Roads Service hopes to start work on the Strabane Bypass (estimated cost £4M) in early 2002 and on the Omagh Throughpass (estimated cost £5M) in early 2003. Also, you will be aware from my recent letter that Roads Service has identified a number of other major works schemes which will be assessed for possible inclusion in its 10-Year Forward Planning Schedule. The schemes include some in West Tyrone and the Chief Executive of Roads Service will write to you shortly to seek your comments on those schemes. In addition to the above major works schemes, Roads Service delivers an annual programme of minor works schemes, such as transportation, accident remedial, traffic calming and minor road improvement schemes. In the current year, Roads Service plans to spend some £600,000 on minor works in the West Tyrone area. Public Transport to Airports Mr David McClarty asked the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to improve the availability of public transport between Belfast International and Belfast City Airports and the North and North West areas. (AQW 72/01) Mr Campbell: Airporter, a private company, operates a stage carriage service from Londonderry, serving both Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport. This service is provided under a Road Service Operator’s Licence issued by the Department of the Environment and currently consists of six services in each direction, Monday to Friday, three in each direction on Saturday with 2 in each direction on Sunday. I understand that the Department of the Environment would consider any request for an increase in service frequency if such a request were made by the existing operator. Any such request would obviously only be made if there was sufficient passenger demand. Translink also provide very frequent services from the North and the North West to both airports, via Belfast. As with all its services, Translink will continue to monitor the demand for airport services. Again, any possible service enhancements would only be considered if there was sufficient passenger demand. Electronic Signage : M1 Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister for Regional Development to detail when the new electronic signage along the M1 will become operational. (AQW 95/01) Mr Campbell: I assume that this question relates to the work that is presently being undertaken by my Department’s Roads Service to erect electronic signs on the central median of the M1 motorway between Belfast and Moira. This work is part of an ongoing Roads Service project to extend driver information and motorway control along the motorway network. It is expected that the new signs will become operational during early November 2001. Public Transport : Mid Ulster Mr Billy Armstrong asked the Minister for Regional Development to make it his policy to increase the provision of public transport to elderly people living in isolated areas of Mid Ulster. (AQW 97/01) Mr Campbell: I readily acknowledge the importance of public transport to elderly people living in isolated rural areas. My Department seeks to address their needs through the Rural Transport Fund, which aims to improve access for rural dwellers to services and facilities. Through the Fund my Department has provided revenue support for additional Ulsterbus services in rural areas, including 14 routes in the Mid Ulster area. The Fund also supports four Rural Community Transport Partnerships in the Mid Ulster area which provide complementary services to the public transport | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||